Welcome to April! How quickly this year is going by already. We're all happy that the weather has been perfect lately and things are hopping around town. Today is April Fool's Day in the USA but I haven't seen much "tomfoolery" on this day for many years. Maybe because I've been living here for the past 11 years, and maybe simply because it isn't as prominent or popular as it once was. I remember that when I was growing up, people would spend a lot of time planning the tricks and pranks associated with this date.
The Mexican equivalent of April Fool's Day is on December 28th, the day known as the Day of the Holy Innocents (Día de los Santos Inocentes).
In Mexico, the same antics are common. The media also gets involved by reporting news that is false, all in good fun. Many also visit cemeteries with offerings to souls of departed children, in line with a pre-Hispanic tradition. When somebody falls for the false news or prank the saying goes: Inocente palomita que te dejaste engañar hoy por ser dia 28 en nadie debes confiar, "Innocent little dove that let itself be fooled, today being the 28th in no one should you trust". Anyway, I'm getting carried away, but Happy April Fool's Day.
Spring Break was a hit again this year and, as I understand it, there were almost 30,000 extra visitors in town.Most of the activities occur in the usual places: Malecon, Calle 13, and the Mirador. The new and improved Manny's Beach Club was especially popular this year, as it should be, since they did a complete redo of the place. It is very impressive and if you haven't been there, you should stop by one of these trips to town.
Another thing that I would like to bring up about Spring Break - and really for every time you're on the road - is to PLEASE drive safely. That means driving the speed limit, not passing when you don't have visibility and basically, being a courteous and legal driver. You should also drive defensively, because many times someone else is not being as courteous. Last month there were three head on collisions, all from drivers trying to pass in no-passing zones. Good people died and it wasn't only the aggressive drivers who lost their lives. And, before you blame Mexico, all three of these accidents happened between Why and Lukeville, within the USA.
Semana Santa is the next big gathering and will happen later this month. It makes Spring Break look like a picnic. Rocky Point is expected to have well over 100,000 "extra" people a town that usually runs around 60,000. You can imagine (and correctly so) that traffic is brutal over that long weekend. Most residents, myself included, hunker down and stay home. One thing about Semana Santa is that you will either love it or hate it. Lots of people and lots of banda music, mostly on the beaches. In truth, most American and Canadian tourists try it once and say "never again". If you do come, bring your earplugs if you plan to get any sleep :)
This coming weekend is the Mermaid's Market along with the Pirate and Mermaid Extravaganza to be held at Shrimp Park across from City Hall. The Sonoran Resorts is co-sponsoring the event this year and we will have a booth set up to share information about our resorts and our listings. Please stop by to say Hello and to register to win a free luxury condo stay at the Sonoran Sky Resort. We might have some goodies to give away too. Hope to see you there.
Finally, it is time to start inviting you to our Annual Las Vegas Night for Charity, which is held each year on the Saturday nearest the 4th of July. I know that it's still pretty early to start promoting the event but knowing early will allow you plenty of time to plan your schedule in order to attend the event. As always, 100% of the money from the even will go to local charitable causes. Hopefully, I will have more information on who/how the proceeds will be used by next month's newsletter.
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've been here full-time for 11 years 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:
Besides our website, you can also see our listings at the following:
AMPI Puerto Penasco MLS
Point 2 Agent Multinational MLS
Tucson Association of Realtors MLS
Phoenix Association of Realtors MLS
Prescott Association of Realtors MLS
Northern Arizona Association of Realtors MLS
Pick up a handout at any of our Sonoran Resorts
Barrett Jackson Show - Scottsdale and Las Vegas
Various Real Estate and Trade shows in AZ, NV, and CA
Our listings are also shared with the following:
IMPORTANT: Some email providers cut this newsletter off before it's finished. If that happens on yours, please scroll to the bottom of this email and click "View Entire Message" to see the entire newsletter.
I hope that you enjoy my newsletter and continue to recommend it to your friends. Please feel free to give me thoughts, suggestions, or ideas for future newsletters. Puerto Peñasco is my home and I love to share the news and goings-on with you.
I do get email requests each month asking me to add someone to my list. While I certainly don't mind doing so, all you really need to do is click Join Newsletter Mailing List, add the email address, and it will happen automatically. Not to worry - I will not spam you or share your email address, and you will only receive one email-newsletter each month on the 1st.
Rotary Club grant aims to provide drinking water to public schools
By José Antonio Pérez and Shandra Keesecker-Rivero
With March 22nd heralded as World Water Day, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to share progress on this much-anticipated water plant. In addition, for Rotary International, March is known as Water and Sanitation Month.
A water purifying plant, meant to supply free drinking water to public schools throughout Puerto Peñasco, is an endeavor the local Rotary Club of Puerto Peñasco (CR Mar de Peñasco, AC) has been working to achieve for several years via the Global Grant process of Rotary International. In a process that encompasses collaboration with the Municipal administration, as well as the local Water Company (OOMAPAS), and international Rotary partner Red Rock Rotary Club of St. George, Utah, the grant was finally approved last year and steps put into motion to make the water plant a reality.
The plant, which is currently 60% complete, is meant to provide clean drinking water to 25,000 students across the city - from kindergarten through public universities and, together with an educational campaign regarding conservation and the importance of clean drinking water, represents an investment of $60,000 USD.
Following a late January tour of the facility with current Puerto Peñasco Rotary Club President Shandra Keesecker and grant committee member Eduardo Vallejo, along with fellow Rotarian Dr. Socorro .... , Mayor Kiko Munro emphasized that work between the government and civil society continues to render fruits that positively impact the community of Puerto Peñasco.
Keesecker recalled this Global Grant process, which is the first for the local Rotary Club, was begun under the leadership of Past Rotary Club President Enrique Rodríguez in 2015. She furthered that along with support from the local administration in providing the space, work with the Municipal Office of Potable Water, Sewage, and Sanitation (OOMAPAS) is essential in defining delivery routes to all area schools, as well as for ongoing operation of the plant.
Engineer Adán Huerta, municipal liaison for the water plant project, detailed this plant has the ability to produce 40,000 liters of water daily, is equipped with six 4,000 liter tanks for crude water, as well as three 4,000 tanks for purified water.
It is important to note water from the plant will also be sold to the public directly to help ensure the plant's sustainability.
Engineer Adan Huerta, Peñasco Rotary President Shandra Keesecker, Puerto Peñasco Mayor Kiko Munro, Rotarians Socorro Villareal and Eduardo Vallejo
Mayor Kiko Munro expressed appreciation for the altruistic help offered by the local Rotary Club, which aims to improve the quality of life of the city's residents. He also detailed the facilities achieved through the Rotary International Global Grant will be operated by OOMAPAS on property provided under gratuitous loan (comodato) approved by City Council last year.
"Our students will no longer suffer from lack of purified water at schools," stated Mayor Munro, "we are providing the example that in working together anything is possible. We will continue to be a thoughtful administration, and one that is concerned for its people and its future."
Circus Mexicus Begins June 6th - Where it all Began
When you're a kid growing up and get told not to do something, what do you do? Exactly. Let's go back to the Fall of 2000. The newly formed Peacemakers have been asking their out of state management to play Rocky Point, Mexico for several months.
Responses were the same. "Why?" "Is it safe?" "You're kidding, right?" "No, you're not going."
Like any kid, they did it anyway.
Initially, efforts were made just to find a place to play rather than start a festival. The roof top patio at the Sunset Cantina (it's now Skully'z located across from the Peñasco del Sol Hotel) seemed the best place to make it happen. On October 28, 2000, about a hundred showed up and listened to Honky Tonk Union, Refreshments songs from both records and a couple covers. Just like that, Circus Mexicus was born.
A larger spot was needed for next time and the location jumped over to the newly finished Baja Cantina on the Miramar beach side of Whale Hill. This show would almost not happen due to the 9/11 attacks upon the United States, but Roger chose to honor the gig and not allow those who would curtail freedom with fear to stop him from his plans. As the concert kept growing, the location did as well. May 25, 2002 brought what was to become more of a festival atmosphere with an outdoor concert in a dirt lot just south of the sunset cantina over Memorial Day Weekend.
A massive crowd showed up, the entire town ran out of beer but fun was rampant. The Fall and Spring concerts continued for multiple years with ever-growing crowds and a new name thought up by PH Naffah, Circus Mexicus! However, hurricane warnings (and one rain soaked show) in the Fall, were making that season more difficult to continue with outside concerts. Meanwhile, beautiful new accommodations were getting built at Sandy Beach and it was clear the Spring would be a better time to focus and grow the event without the threat of bad weather.
June 6, 2009 marked the first Circus Mexicus at Sandy Beach located behind the Sonoran Spa Resort.
Demand for more rock n roll was obvious and what was a one night concert evolved into a multiple day event with several bands sharing the stage. The inaugural January Jam at JJ's Cantina was an unexpected success and quickly became the second Mexico date on the calendar for RCPM.
Inspired by the kids living at a local children's home, PH Naffah launched Hot Dog and a Smile where he personally grilled hundreds of hot dogs for fans in exchange for donations to the children's home. It was the beginning of multiple charity initiatives at both January Jam and Circus Mexicus that has raised tens of thousands of dollars to date for various charities throughout Puerto Peñasco.
As the U.S. economy rebounded and fans sought post-recession solace with the organic vibe created at Circus Mexicus, the event began to expand to smaller venues like Banditos, JJ's and Wrecked at The Reef among others giving music lovers options day and night.
Fans fought through swine-flu threats and the inconvenience of newly instituted Passport requirements at the border to re-enter the United States. To amplify the fun, Roger Clyne created a beach soccer tournament giving fans an option to exercise with bands playing on the beach while collecting sporting goods benefitting a local sports foundation for kids.
Today, about 80% of the attendance come from Arizona while the remainder of ticket buyers come from 30+ other states and countries. Oregon, Minnesota and Colorado are especially represented well with a growing number of Mexican Nationals from Sonora now enjoying a four day festival throughout Puerto Peñasco featuring other genres including reggae, Latino folk, country and punk.
Young Life - Vida Joven Annual Red Carpet Gala is Friday, April 5
A message of hope from Dottie Homeyer to share something wonderful that is happening to the youth of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico because of Young Life (Vida Joven). 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 almost ten years ago. They looked around the town and realized there were not many activities for the local teens, and decided to make a difference.
Young Life doesn't start with a program. It starts with adults who are concerned enough about the local 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. With the fantastic leadership over the years, the Puerto Peñasco YL Club has prospered.
In March of 2011 the second Young Life Vida Joven camp was held at the One Mission facility just outside of town. Of the 40 campers, 16 young adults made the decision to follow Jesus, while other students who knew about the Lord reaffirmed their commitment. Since the moment they arrived at camp there were smiles on their faces as well as questions as to what this weekend was all about. Rebecca, from the Dominican Republic, was the main speaker. She made an inspiring presentation to lead the campers into making a decision to change any destructive lifestyles, as well as sharing the hope they could have in Jesus. These camp experiences can be life changing. One teenager shared that if it hadn't been for this weekend, she would have probably taken her life because her suicidal thoughts would not go away. Another camper stated, "I don't need drugs to feel this way. I have answers to many of my questions and it's all about Jesus."
YL believes in the power of presence. Kid's lives are dramatically impacted when caring adults come alongside them, sharing God's love with them. Because their Young Life leader believes in them, the kids begin to see that their lives have great worth, meaning and purpose. Each week these kids meet at a local house for games, crafts, sports, and hanging out time with a positive message. Loly has recently started an off-shoot group called Young Lives which involves single teenage mothers. At a recent gathering she had twelve young mothers meeting and discussing issues related to childcare.
More than ever we need partners in the mission of Puerto Peñasco Young Life. Judging from the Christmas event in which over 95 students participated, we are anticipating a continuing increase of teenagers for the camp. Would you please consider partnering with us?
Would you consider helping our kids have a life changing experience by making a donation to:
Young Life Puerto Peñasco X399,
PO Box 520
Colorado Springs, CO. 80901
www.younglife.org
Convention and Visitors Bureau Contributes to Road Safety
With the goal of contributing to better roadways while increasing overall safety and awareness, the president of the Puerto Peñasco Convention & Visitors Bureau (OCV), Hector Vazquez del Mercado, recently presented a total of 40 traffic signs to the city, including Stop signs, Speed Limits, as well as DUI warnings, and mandatory use of helmets.
Puerto Peñasco mayor Ernesto Munro thanked the OCV for addressing the request, made by Public Safety, regarding the donation of signage for strategic points across the city. This clearly demonstrates it is possible for the community, the private sector, and the government to work together. The mayor also underscored his commitment to reinstate an informative program on traffic rules and fine amounts. This helps to reinforce informational tools provided by the OCV, as the new signs include details regarding diverse fines for traffic violations.
Accompanied by fellow hotel colleagues, President of the National Chamber of Commerce Federation (FECANACO), Ángel de la Puerta, and Mayor Ernest Munro, the OCV president indicated the signs are in response to requests made by Raúl Quintero, Director of Public Safety, as well as area hotels and resorts. The goal is to provide better road signage along key avenues and intersections.
Vázquez del Mercado detailed the signs are to be placed at spots that have been identified as those with the heaviest traffic, both for tourists and residents. Public roads with the greatest need for new signage, according to the police chief, are: Benito Juarez Blvd., José Alcantar Street, Plutarco Elias Calles Av., Blvd. Costero, and Calle 13.
The president of the OCV also reported, in coordination with resorts and hotels, free dining areas would be provided to members of the Tourism Auxiliary Police as an incentive to encourage their ongoing efforts while strengthening a sense of forming part of a larger team of tourism service providers.
Puerto Peñasco to take part in 2019 Pacific Basketball Circuit
Together with Brian Semonian, President of Los Capitanes de Puerto Peñasco of the CIBAPAC, FIFA, the mayor expressed his pleasure and pride that the city would be participating in a professional basketball league, reaffirming his commitment to promote and support different athletic disciplines.
"We are prepared so that no one can stop Puerto Peñasco," assured the mayor. "We have made the various athletic leagues more professional, attracting first rate presentations such as Los Capitanes de Puerto Peñasco of the CIBAPAC so that families, residents, and visitors alike can take in even more opportunities for fun and entertainment."
Mayor Kiko Munro lauded the professionalism of Brian Semonian, noting his international background and 15 years of experience as a professional coach in the G-League of the NBA in Australia and Great Britain.
Semonian explained the Pacific Basketball Circuit (CIBAPAC) will begin mid-September of this year, with 14 teams in the league from the states of Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, and Sonora. Los Capitanes de Puerto Peñasco will include Mexican and US basketball players that have played professional ball. Part of the program, added the Los Capitanes de Puerto Peñasco coach, is also to hold basketball clinics to develop local players ranging in age from 17-20.
Mexico Announces Launch of its First Fleet of Luxury Cruise Ships
A travel company in Mexico has announced the launch of the country's first fleet of luxury cruise ships that will sail from ports of Mexico throughout Mexican waters.
In a press release in Mexico City, Grupo Vidanta announced its foray into the shipping industry with Vidanta Cruises, the first Mexican line of luxury ships. The fleet, which consists of five vessels, was an investment of 2.7 billion peso.
The company says ship Vidanta Elegant will be the first in their fleet with which the company will start operations. The luxury cruise liner has 149 cabins with a capacity for 297 passengers. Vidanta Elegant has six decks, numerous restaurants, 11 bars, an immersive entertainment area, spa, gym, a pool on the upper deck and multiple Jacuzzis.
The ship, which is 153 meters long and weighing 15 tons, was designed with the concept of privacy and exclusivity. The company says in order to ensure personal attention, the ship will have one crew member for each passenger, unlike the standard, which is a ratio of one to five.
Photo: Grupo Vidanta
"In 45 years, we have built a legacy based on personalized services in our holiday complexes and now we are expanding it on the high seas, giving access to hidden gems of our coasts to create the best vacation and cultural experiences," said Iván Chávez, Executive Vice President of Grupo Vidanta
Information on routes, duration of trips, destinations, dates and prices will be announced soon, the company said, adding that routes are designed to explore exclusive destinations which will set sail from various ports in Mexico to sail the Sea of Cortés, the Pacific and the Caribbean.
Potpourri - Short Shorts of All Sorts!
Sometimes so much is going on in our little slice of paradise by the sea that we can't address the many short subjects with proper attention. To handle the hodgepodge of dangling subject matter, we invented the Potpourri Page. Here are a few "short shorts" to keep you up to date.
Spring Break 2019
The Puerto Peñasco Convention & Visitors Bureau (OCV) reported occupancy rates across town reached 77% during the first weekend of Spring Break, with many hotels at full capacity. This translates to approximately 29,000 tourists, detailed Lizette Ibarra, OCV Director. Ibarra also noted overall expectations were met, though the weather was a little on the cold side during this particular week.
Lizette Ibarra highlighted the fact the U.S. State Department did not release any additional travel warnings this year, meaning that trust in this tourist destination is on the rise.
Mayor award ceremony of the Mural Contest in Mosaic 2019
In order for the city of Puerto Peñasco to continue its beautification as well as continue promoting the talent of the different artistic expressions, Mayor Kiko Munro gave King David Montes the prize of 25 thousand pesos as winner of the Mural Contest in Mosaic 2019.
Accompanied by Nina Mier Nogales, Director of the Municipal Institute of Culture and Art (IMCA), the Municipal President congratulated the winning artist, who now has the opportunity to translate his talent into a mural under the title "Welcome | Welcome", at the entrance to the city.
"The idea is that in this season of Spring Break and Easter Week visitors can observe and enjoy the author performing the work" Art Show "in the area assigned to it".
City to Reinforce Security During Semana Santa Holiday
Puerto Peñasco is preparing to receive more than 130,000 vacationers during the upcoming Semana Santa Holiday, a figure estimated by Mayor Kiko Munro.
The mayor of the City said that they will reinforce the security of the municipality with 150 agents on loan from the State and a helicopter from the Ministry of Public Security, in addition to the 120 municipal police of Puerto Penasco.
"Hopefully for Semana Santa this will be increased, we made a request of at least 100 cadets and 50 elements of the PESP, which will be added to the ministerial agents and the Navy of Mexico that also add tothe Public Safety operative groups, "he said. The busiest time for the holiday will be between April 18th and 21st.
In terms of hotel and rental condo capacity, he said that there are approximately 6,500 rooms and the economic benefit expected is around 120 million pesos.
Annual Red Cross Fundraiser On Now
It's that time of year again when you will see the Red Cross set up around town, both in Sonoyta and throughout Rocky Point, asking for donations. Remember that the vast majority of the Red Cross staffers are volunteers and the program operates mostly on donations. Please give generously and be patient as the cars ahead of you do the same.
The Red Cross saves countless lives every year in and around Rocky Point and the hard working volunteers deserve all the respect and support that the public can give. So give what you can and proudly display the sticker of the Red Cross showing that you have helped them to save lives and make Rocky Point a safer place for everyone to enjoy.
Pinacate Reserve Closed to Public
For reasons not disclosed on the sign, the entrance and roads through the Pinacate Reserve are closed to the public. The hope is that the closure is temporary and short-lived.
The Desert of Altar and Pinacate Biosphere Reserve Visitors Center is still open and offers nature paths and access to the nearby sand dunes.
The Schuk Toak Visitors Center, which is located 25 kilometers north of Puerto Peñasco, is open daily from 8 - 5, with a last call for trips to the sand dunes at 2 p.m.
Mayor Kiko Munro Oversees Remodel of Plaze a la Madre
Mayor Kiko Munro oversees remodeling work being done at Plaza la Madre at the entrance to town (Mother's Plaza), confirming his commitment to rehabilitating public spaces for family enjoyment. Work on the plaza has advanced to about 65%, which when complete, will include cobblestone, concrete, shaded walkways, 2 children's playgrounds, benches, garbage cans, and artificial grass, among other features. Work is expected to be completed by the end of April.
Virtual Consular Agency Office Hours
The United States Consulate General in Nogales, Mexico, is very happy to announce its schedule of upcoming office hours. This is a free service, designed to increase communication between American citizens in Puerto Peñasco and the American Citizen Services staff in Nogales. If you have questions or concerns that you'd like to discuss with a Consulate representative, please join us during OFFICE HOURS. These will be held from noon until 1:30 p.m. on the dates listed below.
Please visit the Office of Economic Development on the first floor of the Ayuntamiento (City Hall) in Puerto Peñasco, where an American volunteer will connect you with us via Skype.
Thursday, April 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 25, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 16, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 6, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 27, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 19, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The Office Hours will be hosted by the American Citizen Services Chief and a member of the local staff. We sincerely hope you'll join us with your questions and concerns, and look forward to seeing you.
If you have questions about the Virtual Consular Agency, please send us an email at nogalesacs@state.gov.
Day of the Child Fundraising Event April 28th
Join the fun and celebrate the Day of The Child at the 4th annual fundraiser for the kids from Esperanza para los Ninos, on April 28th, 2019 from 2-6 at the Princessa Resort in Puerto Peñasco.
The Friends of Esperanza are busily preparing for the "Day of The a Child" Fiesta for all the the children who live at Esperanza Children's Home, 15 miles North of Rocky Point. There will be games, competitions, sand castle building, food and fun, all honoring these abandoned children.
The community is invited. Colin's restaurant at the Princessa is donating all the food for the kids and there will be special drinks, a 50/50 raffle, and entertainment on the beach provided by the kids competitions.
Come have a margarita or two and enjoy the afternoon with the kids!
You can make a big difference for the children of Mexico! Esperanza is a very special place where children who are homeless, at risk, or abandoned find a loving Christian environment to call home. Esperanza has served the Puerto Penasco community for over 20 years, serving hundreds of children and providing shelter for the most vulnerable.
Last month Esperanza took in 3 New Children. The latest arrival was only 3 days old! This baby will have over 30 brothers and sister to love while they are living at Esperanza!
The goal for this year's fundraising is to build a new home for the older boys so they can move into town and finish their schooling while looking for jobs and gaining experiences that will make them ready when they become adults.
We are hoping to raise $50,000 for Esperanza toward this cause. As always, 100% of all donations go directly to Esperanza!
We have made it easy for you to support these children. All you have to do is donate!
Mexico's Children's foundation is a 501c3 tax exempt organization set up to ensure all your dollars go directly to helping the kids! Just go on line at
Much has been made of the surviving pagan cult of the bunny that has become an integral part of Easter in much of the Christian world, but in northwest Mexico, an indigenous boogeyman called a "fariseo," menacing and comical at once, is the central figure that announces the events of Holy Week.
Brought by the Spanish conquerors and instituted in colonial times as a central element of their rule, Catholicism was eventually accepted by American natives as a part of their own culture. However, fondness for indigenous traditions and practices led to a blending of European values with regional ones. Today, almost 500 years after the Spanish Catholic conquest, the echoes of those pre-Hispanic traditions still linger in the celebrations and rituals performed during Holy Week.
Lent has surely left a deep impact on the lives of those who participated in the prayers, processions and chantings that enhanced the religious feeling of this period, especially among the indigenous community. In the territory of Sonora, northwest Mexico, Lent is celebrated by some parts of the population according to the Yaqui ritual.
The Yaqui tribe is the largest native group in the region, and every year Yaqui men take over the city streets under the identity of what we, the "yoris" (non-indigenous), call "fariseos." (According to Dictionary of the Spanish Language; "fariseo," among the Jews, refers to a member of a cult who exercised rigor and austerity but eluded the precepts of the law, and above all its spirit.) In our popular culture we use this word which has its origin in Roman times to name this strange character that emerges during Lent.
The "Chapayecam" (the Yaqui name for the "fariseo") wraps his body in a blanket symbolizing the skin of an animal, wears a belt made of seashells, a representative mask, a knife and a walking stick that shares the same colors, and traditionally made sandals. For 40 days, the man in this outrageous costume loses his identity and leaves his family and work to become a symbol that announces to the rest of the community the need to prepare ourselves spiritually for Holy Week.
For 40 days, the "fariseos" keep a rosary inside their mouths to avoid sins and speaking. They dance through the streets, and their presence, which is somewhat mysterious, a little bit threatening and sometimes funny, is aimed at a specific mission: to prepare all the city dwellers for the events that will take place at the end of Lent.
Ernesto Camou, a local writer, described the presence of the "fariseos" in the streets: "(They) try to create a tense atmosphere of expectation, to remind us that something dreadful will take place on the ensuing Holy Friday. They adopt an identity that is not human; they become countryside spirits that appear in human settlements and wander without any apparent reason other than to dance, play tricks and provide a ritual intimidation."
The impact of these beings over the people is always mixed: some react with horror when they are approached, others tend to follow them into their dancing and offer them food and money; they have become a unique part of the urban landscape and a persistent character in the children's nightmares.
When Easter Saturday comes the "fariseos" gather in their holy territory and set themselves free from their religious vow: the mask they've been wearing for 40 days are put together in the center of a field and, while they dance and pray, the fire begins and all the masks merge into a holy bonfire.
Their presence, the process during Lent and the ending of their ritual not only represents the Christian events of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ, but is also a celebration of life itself.
After the burning of the masks, at the conclusion of Lent, the "Chapayecam" returns to his family and celebrates with joy and lots of beer the ending of a spiritual cycle that he has been perpetuating for generations; he goes back to his daily duties and waits until next year.
When Consumers Buy Fish, They Don't Always get What They Want
Study found fraudulent fish sales in 31% of purchases tested
Asking for marlin at a market or ordering snapper at a restaurant is no guarantee of getting those types of fish, a study has determined.
"Every day, hundreds of consumers in Mexico ask for one species and get another," said Renata Terrazas, campaign director at Oceana México, an ocean conservation and advocacy organization that carried out the study.
"That's fraud because . . . there is a cost that ends up being paid by diners, fishermen, and the health of the sea," she added.
Oceana México purchased 400 portions of fish from 133 fish markets, supermarkets, and restaurants in Mexico City, Cancún, and Mazatlán and found through DNA testing that 31% of the samples were not as advertised.
The non-governmental organization said in a report that the deceit occurs within a context of negligence on the part of fishing and health authorities, and shows that the doors are open to the sale of species whose fishing is illegal by using another name.
"Today, there are no systems, rules or laws that enable us to have certainty about the issue," said Oceana México vice-president Pedro Zapata.
Another finding of the DNA study was that the 100 different species of fish among the 400 portions purchased were sold under just 48 different names.
Not revealing the names of so many species could lead to their extinction without people realizing, Oceana México said.
The study also found that 11% of the samples tested were fish that are on the red list of threatened species published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The fish that was most frequently replaced with another species was marlin.
In 95% of cases when marlin was requested, Oceana México was given other species such as tuna or silky and thresher shark.
A substitute was given for Pacific sierra, a member of the mackerel family, in 89% of cases; for red snapper in 54% of cases - most frequently by stingray; and for bass in 53% of cases.
Passing off one species of fish as another was most common in Mexico City, occurring in 44.5% of the purchases.
Oceana México said that was particularly concerning because the capital supplies fish to many other states via La Viga market, the second largest seafood market in the world.
Terrazas said the high percentage of substitution is clear evidence that authorities are not doing their job but beyond that, she added, "we need to start to see what is really happening in the [supply] chain that makes regulation difficult."
To help eliminate the substitution problem, Oceana México recommended that authorities create a guide that lists the scientific and commercial names of different species of fish to help educate consumers, and implement a traceability policy to track fish during the journey through the different stages of the supply chain.
Little Time Left to Save Mexico's Vanishing Vaquita
In recent decades, the sleek, wide-eyed vaquita porpoise has been pushed to the brink of extinction by poachers pursuing another critically endangered sea creature, the totoaba, a fish whose swim bladder sells on the Chinese black market for thousands of dollars. The porpoises end up caught in nets intended for the totoaba and killed as collateral damage.
The vaquita (its name is Spanish for "little cow") is a toothed whale and the smallest of all cetaceans; a full-grown female can measure just five feet and weigh only 75 pounds. Thousands of vaquitas once plowed the Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf of California, which is bordered on the east by the Mexican mainland and on the west by the Baja California peninsula. Today, their numbers are estimated at around 10 but no more than 22 in the wild.
Without a strictly enforced ban on even possessing gillnets, the species will soon go extinct in the wild. Just last week, the badly decomposed body of what was thought to be a vaquita was found caught in a gillnet.
There is little time left to act to save the vaquita, yet there is hope. For Mexico's new president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the fate of the little porpoise represents political opportunity and the chance of failure. He can do nothing and preside over the first sea mammal extinction in North America in decades. Or he can save one of Mexico's national symbols and rescue a troubled fishing industry.
"This is doable even now," said Brooke Bessesen, a conservationist and author of a new book, Vaquita: Science Politics and Crime in the Sea of Cortez. "We have to come up with solutions that buy time. This is not a numbers game. It's a game of time."
The Sea of Cortez is 62,000 square miles of azure and turquoise water that ranks as one of the most productive fisheries in the world, with more than 900 species of fin fish, including blue marlin and whale sharks. Commercial fishing started in earnest in the 1940s and is largely concentrated off the Mexican state of Sonora, on the eastern shore of the sea. But poachers are generally thought to be the problem these days.
The small-scale fishermen who live on the sea's western and northern shores motor out in cheap fiberglass skiffs known as pangas, armed with gillnets. These nets, made from near invisible nylon mono- and multi-filament, float on or near the surface and are weighted at the bottom. They kill indiscriminately, entangling everything from sea lion pups to great white sharks. Today, there are so many abandoned nets that the Mexican government pays fishermen to drag them ashore.
Poor poachers still use gillnets to catch the totoaba, whose swim bladder sells for $20,000 on average in China for traditional medicine and even as investments. A bladder is both a high-end business gift and a sort of trophy in itself. The trade is so lucrative that even the drug cartels have become involved in the poaching.
Last April, Mexican authorities stopped a Chinese man at the Mexico City International Airport with 355 totoaba swim bladders. Three days later, another Chinese man bound for China had 417 swim bladders in two suitcases. And in December, Chinese officials confiscated 980 pounds of swim bladders, estimated to be worth $26 million. Sixteen people were arrested.
So it is no wonder that poachers and their gillnets have pushed the totoaba onto the list of critically endangered species maintained by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and dragged the even more endangered vaquita along with it. The tiny porpoises drown when they are snagged in these nets.
The Mexican government shares some of the blame. Warnings that the vaquita might vanish arose years ago when there were still hundreds in the wild, but it failed to take effective actions to protect them. Mr. López Obrador's predecessor, Enrique Peña Nieto, banned the use of gill nets in the porpoise's habitat in 2015, for instance, but not their possession.
An attempt to capture porpoises to breed them in captivity in 2017 led to one dying; another nearly did and had to be released. The totoaba, however, is being bred in captivity, giving the species a path to survival. But that effort is likely to be counterproductive for the vaquita, because it will only encourage more poaching of the totoaba.
The vaquita's situation is so dire that Thomas A. Jefferson, a San Diego marine biologist and conservationist, said he feared that extinction was its most likely fate. "The conservationist in me doesn't want to admit that but the biologist has to," he said.
Yet the vaquita clings to life. In October, four were spotted in open water. The little porpoise may possess a unique genetic advantage that could allow it to recover in the wild if just left alone.
The vaquita was never widely distributed, numbering perhaps only 5,000 at its modern height and located only in the Sea of Cortez. But there is no evidence that it has hit the bottleneck of birth defects from inbreeding often seen in declining populations.
And so, there is hope - if President López Obrador acts swiftly. The vaquita is one of Mexico's national animals, along with the golden eagle and the jaguar. He's under economic pressure to do so. But by acting aggressively to save the porpoise, he can also fulfill core campaign promises and emerge a hero, not just in Mexico but around the world.
Pressure is coming from the United States. Last year, the United States Court of International Trade in New York temporarily banned seafood imports from Mexico caught in the Sea of Cortez with gillnets. The injunction was issued in response to a lawsuit brought by environmentalists complaining that the Trump administration was not enforcing a 1972 law that protects marine mammals from being killed in the process of fishing.
It has been a crippling blow to the fishing industry in the Sea of Cortez, blocking an estimated 1,400 tons of seafood worth $300 million from being sold in the United States. Even before that, the grocery retailer Trader Joe's had banned blue shrimp from the Sea of Cortez from its nearly 500 stores because of concerns that vaquitas were being killed in gillnets intended for shrimp.
Even if he wasn't facing that economic pressure, saving the vaquita represents an opportunity for the new president. Mexican presidents cannot run for re-election, so Mr. López Obrador is at the zenith of his power at the start of his six-year term.
By banning the possession of gillnets, Mr. López Obrador would slow the killing of both the totoaba and the vaquita and perhaps resolve the trade dispute with the United States. By expanding the practice of paying more fisherman to remove ghost nets, he would put idle anglers to work. By allowing video of illegal fishing to be used as evidence in court - it is now not admissible - the Mexican Navy could make poaching arrests stick. And by managing the fishery wisely, he would keep it producing for Mexicans and foreign markets alike. Already this kind of fishery management is taking shape in parts of Sonora.
"There has to be some way. But this comes down to López Obrador," said Ms. Bessesen, the author. "He is the remaining flicker of hope for the vaquita."
BBC London to Share Global Documentary on Pinacate
The British production company BBC London recently gathered spectacular images of extraordinary flora from the middle of the desert at the Pinacate Biosphere Reserve in the making of a documentary, which will be shared with the world.
The BBC production team spent over 10 days in February capturing the splendor of plants and flowers that paint the arid zones of the Desert of Altar, known for the tremendous biodiversity of its flora and fauna. The documentary, which will be part of the BBC program "Green Planet", is conducted by renowned documentarian and principal BBC London voice David Attenborough. The piece illustrates the process from germination to extinction of flora that form part of the natural resources of the Pinacate, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The production team spent years planning this visit, precisely for when the colorful flora would bloom in the middle of the desert during winter. On this occasion, the production team was accompanied by scientists from the University of Arizona.
Japanese video documentarians also spent time this past month filming in the area of the Pinacate, using a small plane to capture scenes for a UNESCO documentary. The project encompassed diverse subjects from craters to flora, fauna, landscape, and dunes under a more general scope. All production work was done under guidance of staff from the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas of the Pinacate Biosphere Reserve to ensure documentary work was done under the environmental protection norms of this national reserve.
Casago Founder Steve Schwab Named One of the Most Admired Leaders of 2019
Casago, an international vacation rental and property management company, is proud to announce its founder and CEO, Steve Schwab, has been named one of 2019's Most Admired Leaders by the Phoenix Business Journal.
Out of 180 entries, judges selected the Scottsdale entrepreneur for this prestigious award after seeing his dedication to excellence, service to community, professional accomplishments and personal achievements.
"It is an honor to be recognized among so many great leaders who I respect immensely," said Steve Schwab, Casago Founder and CEO. "This award is a reflection of the commitment of the entire Casago team, which has built a reputation of impeccable customer service and transparency, which help us all succeed."
Schwab never pictured himself in the vacation industry. He served as a US Army Airborne Ranger before getting his degree in Criminal Justice/Police Science from New Mexico State University. A graduation trip in 2001 to Rocky Point (Puerto Peñasco), Mexico changed everything.
He began doing odd jobs for the woman who rented him a beach house. When the woman's husband passed, Steve paid off their debts and took care of clients. Nearly two decades later, Casago represents more than 2,300 properties from 13-regional offices across Mexico and the Southwestern U.S.
Casago's reach gives Schwab new avenues to enrich the lives of those less fortunate. He started the Mexico Children's Foundation, a nonprofit that funds medical assistance, education and financial assistance to families. Schwab also encourages employees in every regional office to give back to their communities by empowering them to lead fundraisers, food drives, trash clean-ups and more.
Schwab, and the other 24 honorees, will be featured in the Phoenix Business Journal in May in a special section devoted to business leaders. They will also be honored on May 16, 2019 at a special ceremony at the Scottsdale Center for Performing Arts.
Lentil Ceviche
Ceviche - the new "in" food since the beginning of the 21st century is actually an old world dish from South America. It has been one of South America's best-kept secret for centuries, but Ceviche is becoming a popular appetizer and will be gaining popularity as the century progresses.
What is Ceviche? It is often spelled seviche or cebiche, depending on which part of South America it originates from. Ceviche is seafood prepared in a centuries old method of cooking by contact with the acidic juice of citrus juice instead of heat. The preparation and consumption of ceviche is practically a religion in parts of Mexico, Central, and South America, and it seems as though there are as many varieties of ceviche as people who eat it. It can be eaten as a first course or main dish, depending on what is served with it.
The chemical process that occurs when the acid of the citrus comes in contact with the fish is similar what happens when the fish is cooked, and the flesh becomes opaque and firm. Indeed, many people refer to the juice as "cooking" the fish, although that is just not the case.
Latin American flavors first found a place in the USA on Florida menus with South Florida's "New World Cuisine" in the late 1980's. This cuisine comes from the diverse cooking styles and tropical ingredients of the Caribbean, Latin America, Central, and South America. They became fascinated by the tempting flavors of exotic tropical fruits and vegetables. From this fascination, it has spread throughout the USA and many versions of Ceviche were developed. In Mexico, ceviche has existed, especially in the coastal regions, for as long as recorded history can remember.
When almost anything becomes popular, people invariably try to improve it, change it, or add to it, sometimes for the better and sometimes, not so much. When it comes to ceviche, the first thing that people think of is fish. Sometimes of raw fish (although, that's not technically true). Here's a variation of ceviche that actually works - even though calling it ceviche with no hint of seafood in it might be a bit of a stretch. Still, it is very good and it's even vegan, in case that is important to anyone. The recipe couldn't be simpler. BTW, it's better after it sits in the lemon juice for awhile.
Recipe:
Makes: About 3 cups
Prep Time: 20 mins
Optional "cook" time: 1 hour to overnight
Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups steamed lentils (I use the ones from Trader Joe's)
1/2 of an onion
2 jalapenos (use one for less spicy or remove the seeds)
1 large tomato
1/2 of a bunch of cilantro (more or less to taste)
juice from 6 lemons (or the equivalent in limes)
dash of cumin
salt to taste
Directions:
Prep your ingredients - chop the onions, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeno.
Add everything to a bowl and mix. That's it!
Serve with tortilla chips or tostada
'Hee-hee:' Beware, El Ayuwoki is on the Prowl in Sonora and Baja
Police in two states issue an assurance that the scary internet character is not real
Internet lore has given birth to scary characters like Slender Man and Momo, and now there's Al Ayowoki, said to be on the prowl in northern Mexico.
The spread on social media of what some people find a terrifying concept has led police in Baja California Sur and Sonora to issue statements assuring the public that El Ayuwoki is nothing more than a character invented by online culture for laughs and maybe a scare or two.
The Sonora Cyberpolice posted an infographic on Twitter to explain the origin of what it called "an urban legend."
El Ayuwoki is but the latest creature to emerge from creepypastas, brief horror-related legends or images generated by users that have been copied and pasted around the internet. In order to scare readers, creepypastas include gruesome tales of murder, suicide and otherworldly occurrences.
Ayuwoki is a Spanish-language creepypasta, a creature that resembles Michael Jackson. The lore surrounding the character is that it will appear in one's bedroom late at night and say, "Hee-hee," Jackson's signature vocal riff.
The creature's name is an intentionally misspelled play on the lyric "Annie, are you okay?" from Jackson's 1987 hit Smooth Criminal. If one says the last three words, "are you okay," really fast and with a Spanish accent, it sounds like ayuwoki.
The image that accompanies the meme comes from My Ghoul Jackson, a video of an animatronic character modeled after Jackson's likeness that was posted to YouTube in 2009.
Beautifully furnished luxury 3 bedroom beachfront condo at the Sonoran Sky Resort. Fully furnished and turnkey ready to go. Assumable developer financing available. Never used as a rental. This one is getting alot of attention so act quickly and don't miss out on this fantastic bargain.
This condo must be seen to be appriciated. Beachfront views are spectacular. Very nicely furnished, turnkey ready to go. This end unit condo has the wrap around terrace, giving much more room to enjoy and adding to the views.
Energy saving window tinting, upgraded window coverings, stainless appliances, and more. Too many upgrades to list. Lots of interest in this condo already so don't wait too long. Give us a call or stop by the on-site sales office today!
Penthouse level two bedroom beauty at the Spa for sale. Very nicely furnished and turnkey ready to go. This condo comes with a large garage and the trust is already in an Arizona LLC. Save money and quick close. Come and see this one before its gone. Call us today for an appointment!
This condo is beautifully furnished and total luxury combined with a great price makes this one a must-see condo. Ready to go for your family or for a great rental income. An aggressive price and motivated Sellers make this one a sure bet. Contact one of our Agents for more details. Come see this one today!
Fantastic beachfront views are just the beginning for this fabulous condo. Unbelievable rental income and luxury, high-end furnishings make it a sure win. This condo is ready to go and owners have even decided to consider seller financing. Keep it as a rental for income or just keep it for yourself and your family. Either way, you can't go wrong with this beauty.
This is a very special one bedroom condo at the Sonoran Spa and won't last long. Love to entertain or just love having a huge patio for spending time enjoying the weather and the views? Then this is the condo for you. The condo is super nice and ready to go and the terrace is HUGE. You really must see it to appreciate it. This is the only one bedroom available at this time at the Sonoran Spa and it is priced to sell. If you are looking for a truly turn-key beauty, this is it. Great price. Great views. Ready to go. This condo is a home run. Come take a look!
Luxury four bedroom condo at the Sonoran Sky Resort featuring exquisite furnishings, wrap around terrace, and absolutely unbelievable views, all at a super great price. This fantastic condo has it all - and it has never been used as a rental. This condo truly must be seen to be appreciated. Priced to sell too! Don't let this one pass you by. Call today.
Not many available two bedrooms available at the Sea these days. This condo is super nice and has never been used as a rental. Very nicely decorated and turn-key ready to go. You can't go wrong with this one.
Don't wait. See this one today.
This condo has it all. Turn key ready with views all the way down the beach . Excellent condition and just waiting for a new owner to appreciate her. Perfect for a rental or as your own Rocky Point getaway.Best priced three bedroom at the Sonoran Spa. Call for more details or, better yet, just come and see this beauty for in person!
Beautifully two bedroom condo right on the beach for the best views, Best priced 2 bedroom at the Sun and ready to sell. Condos at this price are becoming a thing of the past and this new listing is a great opportunity to get in before it's too late. Great as a rental or keep it all for yourselves. Either way, you need to check this one out soon. Call or visit for more details.
This condo truly has it all. Great beachfront views, beautifully furnished, upgrades throughout, turn-key ready to move in. This would make an excellent rental, with people requesting it again and again. Or, keep it as a non-rental and enjoy the beautiful condo all to yourselves. The choice is yours but you'll need to act quickly. It has already been very popular with our salespeople.
This condo shows like a dream. It is the absolute epitome of luxury with views all the way down the beach. Very nicely furnished and turn-key ready to go. No qualify long term financing already in place and ready for you to assume. Great rental potential as well.
If you're looking for a model-perfect, beach-front, turn-key, total luxury condo at the Sonoran Sky for a great price, look no further. This condo is absolutely amazing and you really need to come and take a look for yourself if you're considering investing in a wonderful vacation/investment property. Views go on forever and this would make an excellent rental as well. Don't wait.
This is a new listing with a great price, ,many upgrades, and absolutely unbelievable views from the huge wraparound terrace. This fantastic 3 bedroom, 2 bath end-unit condo boasts many upgrades, updated furniture and appliances, and a wraparound terrace with beach and ocean views forever. Excellent rental history. You need to see this one for yourself. Call for details or to schedule a tour. You need to act fast on this special deal.
Check out this beautiful, fully furnished, two bedroom oceanfront condo at the Sonoran Sun Resort. Seventh floor location gives fantastic views down the beach and plenty of privacy. Easy access to beach, pools, Jacuzzis, store, restaurant, etc. Condo is in terrific condition. You may want to keep this beautiful condo all for yourself, but it could be a great vacation rental as well. The price is right and you need to see this beauty.
Great top-floor beauty with possible financing available. Panoramic views down the beach in both directions. Fully furnished and ready to enjoy. This could be a great rental - perfect for your family. Call our office for more details. This condo can be your dream come true. Come take a look for yourself.
Best price at the Sonoran Sky on a luxury 4 bedroom, 4 bath, end unit condo. This is one of the nicest condos in town with the very best views all the way down the beach. Non-rental unit in excellent condition and fully furnished, turn-key ready to go. Make this one yours!
This is a great price on a fantastic condo at the Sea. The views from this condo are nothing short of spectacular. Completely upgraded and turn-key ready to go. Nicely furnished and shows like a model. Come and see this one today before it's too late.
Beautiful condo and priced lower than any other one bedroom at the Sonoran Sun Resort. This condo has been totally remodeled and is in perfect condition. It provides excellent rental income and would be a fantastic investment - or just keep it all for your own personal use. Either way, you can't go wrong on this one. Call or stop by and talk with one of our Sales Representatives today! You'll be glad you did.
This is condo is priced to sell and even offers seller financing. Aggressive price and true beachfront views make this a sure winner for anyone who wants a condo for enjoyment and rental income if so desired. Beautifully furnished and turn-key ready to go. This condo has alwyas been very well cared for by the owners. Bargains like this don't last long.
Absolute luxury at the prestigious Sonoran Sky Resort. the Nautical theme in this condo is as unique as it is beautiful and it is an absolute one of a kind original. This is the ONLY one bedroom condo for sale at the Sky and it will make a great rental, or keep it all for yourselves. Really is a must see to appreciate beauty.This condo is ready to go and it can be yours. Contact one of our Agents for more information.
Stunning! Beautiful upgraded floor tiles greet you as you enter this fully customized 1 bedroom ground floor condo. Many upgrades throughout including stainless steel appliances, beautiful granite kitchen countertop, and canterra tile in both the kitchen and bathroom. The focal point of this condo is the stone faced wall in the living room. This property is tastefully furnished showing true pride of ownership throughout. One of a kind at the Sonoran Sea Resort. Picture yourself at sunset over looking the pool and the Sea of Cortez from the nice sized patio. Be sure to come and see this one as soon as you can. It won't last long.
Call Today: 602-476-7511
We are Rocky Point's one and 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.
Our In-House closing team will make things happen quickly and professionally and we will save you money. Our attorneys are on salary and no additional attorney fees are charged to our clients. Loyalty to the Sonoran Resorts Sales Team is both appreciated and rewarded!
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.
NOW POSSIBLE TERMS! GREAT RENTALS!
