There are always many fabulous photos of Rocky Point Sunsets being posted online but the nighttime here is beautiful as well.
Photo courtesy of Mark Olszewski

  October 2017  
Newsletter

 
Exclusively Serving the Sonoran Resorts  

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Deflate Your Tires on the Beach?
Deflate Your Tires on the Beach?

Beach Driving for Beginners
Beach Driving for Beginners



BEACHFRONT
LIVE WEATHER STATION 


BEACHFRONT


Welcome to October and the weather that we've all been waiting for. October is always one of the favorite months of the year in Rocky Point in terms of comfortable weather. The nights are cool and the days are warm. The Ocean is still a comfortable temperature for swimming, snorkeling, or water sports. Air conditions are being turned off and windows are opening again, letting in the wonderful sound of waves on sand that lulls even the biggest insomniacs to a comfortable sleep. Our friends who had gone North to cooler climates for the Summer return to town. Yes, October is probably my favorite month.

It does seem that the weather broke a little early this year, but I haven't heard anyone complaining. Over a week ago, the mornings began to feel a little more fresh, crisp, and even a bit chilly at times. The humidity has gone down tremendously and it is actually "comfortable" to lounge outside in the sun again. This is the time to enjoy the beaches, and the ocean, and it should hang around as long as until December before it starts getting a bit "chilly" and the jackets come out of storage. Whatever the season and whatever the weather, Rocky Point is always a wonderful place to be, but, October is just one fine month and it's now time to enjoy it.

Shrimp season is well under way too and those delicious fresh blue shrimp should be flowing into the hands of vendors as you read this. There are many places to find fresh shrimp, most of them being on the Malecon (aka; fish market), but my favorite has always been a company called Seafood Products. They sell fresh-frozen, 2 kilo blocks of shrimp of separated by size. The weights are always accurate, the prices are set and clearly marked, and they are very competitive and easy to work with. They have many other types of fresh-caught seafood delicacies as well and all are priced right and the quality and freshness is consistent. You can find their big blue storefront on Sinaloa Street, just off of the main blvd, kind of across the street from the Burger King to the East.

We've had a busy Summer and we are expecting a busy Fall as well. Tourism is way up this year and it has been going up by a substantial amount every year in our recent past. Businesses are making money again and new ones are opening frequently. Construction is happening everywhere you look and I have found that it's getting harder to find available workers on short notice because they all seem to have ongoing projects. The peso exchange rate continues to offer great bargains to those who exchange dollars for pesos to spend during their stay. This especially applies to the more "local" establishments, as many businesses catering to tourists set their prices based on dollars instead of pesos. Our sales have been going very well and we have now officially surpassed previous years, making this year a record year in resales since the department was begun over 10 years ago. All good news for Rocky Point, our residents, and our visitors. Hope to see you soon!

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 about 10 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 Associaton 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

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.
  

Sincerely,

Jim Ringquist

Broker/Director of Sales and Marketing
Sonoran Resorts   Spa - Sea - Sun - Sky
602-476-7511

President/Volunteer
Tourist Assistance Unit Advisory Committee
602-774-1777

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.

Sonoran Resorts Donates Funds from Las Vegas Night 2017

 

   

After careful consideration and research, the funds from  the Sonoran Resorts 2017 Las Vegas Night for Charity have now been distributed to help  three deserving local causes. While it may seem like a long time from the time of the event until the donations were actually made, there is good reason for the wait. Rather than giving cash or a check to a group without knowledge of its final destination, the Sonoran Resorts team wants to ensure exactly where the funds are going and to make the funds go as far as possible. Therefore, a hands-on approach to spending the charity funds gathered from the event is always taken.

 

This year, the funds were divided between three worthy causes. First, Casa Hogar, the home for the elderly, were given enough tile and supplies to complete the project of replacing the floor tile in much of their facility. Director, Santiago Ruiz, expressed his thanks once again to the Sonoran Resorts and all who contributed to the donation as the truckload of tile was delivered. The facility is home to several elderly people who have no other living accommodations and no means of support. They welcome visitors as well, so if you're in town and looking to brighten someone's day, stop by and visit with them. You can also always bring donations, as the program runs on the generosity of others. 

 

 

 

The next donation was made to the Tiburones Sobre Ruedas, or Sharks on Wheels, Rocky Point's very own wheelchair basketball team. They were in need of two more specialty sports wheelchairs for their team and the Las Vegas Night donations came to their aid, buying the needed chairs. Francisco Bercovich, Tiburones spokesperson and team member, coordinated the purchase and shipping of the chairs from Guadalajara.   

 

In a gathering at the municipal gym on September 30th, the team demonstrated their agility with their new chairs in front of an audience of Fernando Anaya, CEO of Sonoran Resorts, Jim Ringquist, Sales Director, and Maribel Villalobos, Executive Assistant, along with additional members of the community who have helped to support the team. After an impressive performance by the Tiburones team, congratulations and thanks were passed around, and the team went on with their regular practice.   

 

 

 

Last, but not least, the proceeds were used to provide 30 scholarship payments to students studying in Cobach High School and UTPP Technical College.    

 

In the company of Maribel Villalobos, assistant for CEO Fernando Anaya, Jim Ringquist, Sales Director, as well as María Isela Gamboa, Director of the Bachelor's degree in Puerto Peñasco, Heriberto Rentería Sánchez, Director of the Technological University of Puerto Peñasco, and students and parents of the award recipients, the President of the Municipal DIF and First Lady of Puerto Penasco, Linda Pivac Munro, thanked Fernando Anaya, CEO of Sonoran Resorts for the donation, marking the second consecutive year in which donations were made to the scholarship program.

"I want to thank the Sonoran Sky Resort Group and CEO Anaya for this donation" stated the First Lady. "With this donation, the DIF scholarship program currently reaches a total of 113 young students.  
   
 
 

And, so concludes another very successful year of the Sonoran Resorts Las Vegas Night for Charity. Hopefully, you can attend our next fun event, scheduled for Saturday, July 7, 2018 at the Sonoran Sky Resort. And, don't worry about forgetting the date as I will be sending you lots of reminders when the time gets near. Thank you again to all who participated in the event this year.  

 

Next up: Sonoran Resorts Holiday Food Drive! Coming soon and we hope that you will participate!  

Mexico's Earthquake - How to Help

RockyPoint.com

 

This seems to be the season of disaster. Hurricanes, floods, and fires have effected millions of people throughout the Americas this Summer (today is the first day of Fall, so maybe things will change!).

 

Mexico was hit with 2 devastating earthquakes in recent days. The most severe, an 8.2 on the Richter Scale, struck exactly on the 32nd anniversary of the 1985 quake that claimed over 10,000 lives. The current death toll stands at 273.

 

The most public part of the tragedy has been the response of everyday people. Helping non-stop, the citizens of Mexico City have crossed social boundaries to work together. They bring their shovels, cook food for strangers, and form lines to remove fallen walls. Even in driving rain. Even through the night.

 

Search and Rescue groups to have poured in from around the world too (including from Los Angeles)

 

Throughout Mexico, seeing this response has given rise to the feeling that the average person may be the one who can, together, fix a lot of the countries issues.

 

Rocky Point to the rescue.

As in the aftermath of 9/11, where people from around the U.S. sent all kinds of aid, donations are pouring in from all parts Mexico. You may see the words 'Centro de Acopio' around town. These are collection centers that have sprung up to accept donated items to help the quake victims.

 

Local musicians will have an all day performance on Sunday at Shrimp Park to raise funds. Photographers and graphic artists are also having events to assist.

 

Rocky Point's social services agency, DIF, has already collected a truck full of items and sent them on their way south.

How can you help?

 

If you have things to donate, know that most of the Centro de Acopio will give what they have to the local Red Cross. Most tourists already know that the Red Cross, or Cruz Rosa as it is known here, if located on Fremont Blvd. That is the main east west street that runs from the center of town out towards Las Conchas. Go there and you won't have to search around.

 

Cruz Rosa will accept donations of physical items, as well as cash donations. You are requested to specify where you want your funds to go (unfortunately there are multiple disasters going on at once!)

 

Do it online

 

 

Amazon.com of Mexico allows you to donate through your account, if you have one. The Red Cross of Mexico is probably your best bet to have an impact when ear marking funds for this effort. We have included there information for online donations.

 

On the flyer above you will see the account information for the Red Cross of Mexico. Also represented are the Topos. This is a group of search and rescue volunteers famous for their dedication and courage in responding to disasters worldwide. The Topos formed from young people who jumped in to help in the 1985 quake. With no training and at great personal risk, the helped search for people buried in the rubble.

 

Still a volunteer organization, the are at the forefront of this disaster, and are a worthy choice for your support.

 

By Richard Scott for RockyPoint.COM 

Rocky Point Rally™ Celebrating 17 Years November 9-12

 

 
The greatest motorcycle rally just south of the border into Mexico! Four days of sun, fun, bikes, music, and fiesta on the shores of the Sea of Cortez in Puerto Peñasco, Sonora (Rocky Point) Mexico!

Nov 10 - Thursday           

Registration * Sanborns Over the Border Mystery Poker Run * Kick-off Bike Night * Calle 13

 

Nov 11 - Friday

Registration * Sanborns Over the Border Mystery Poker Run * Pinacate Desert Ride * Charity Poker Run * Boat Cruise * Beach Party * Fiesta en Calle 13 * Concerts

 

Nov 12 - Saturday

* Bike Tricks * Bike Parade * Bike Show * Bike Wash * Fiesta & Concert in Malecon * Fiesta en Calle 13

Nov 13 - Sunday               Bike send off * See you next year! 

 

The Greatest Motorcycle Fiesta Just South of the Border!

* calendar subject to change *

 

Nov - Thursday   / Jueves   

 

9 am - 5 pm  Registration @ Barclin's on Peñasco - Sonoyta Highway

  • Registration $20 includes official anniversary pin, patch, bandana, koozie, wristbands (double wrist-band for use of bike pen)  [Pre-Register online]
  • Toy collection spot (for 4th annual January Kings Day Toy Run [to be held Jan. 6, 2018])
  • Tickets for food and drink at registration area
  • CHARITY POKER RUN CARDS!  Pick them up here w/info on stops

Early Bird Pirate Cruise!  (*free boarding w/registration bracelet - cash bar on board)

7 pm - KICK-OFF PARTY - Bike Night! @ Banditos      The Summer /  The Black Moods

 

Fiesta en Calle 13

 

10  Nov - Friday / Viernes

  

9:30 am - Desert Ride to the Pinacate Visitors Center   Pinacate meet up @ Barclin's (registration area)  

 

9 am - 5 pm  Registration @ Barclin's on Peñasco - Sonoyta Highway

  • Registration $20 includes official anniversary pin, patch, bandana, koozie, wristbands
  • Toy collection spot (for 4th annual January Kings Day Toy Run [to be held Jan. 6, 2018])
  • Tickets for food and drink at registration area
  • CHARITY POKER RUN CARDS!  Pick them up here w/info on stops

Noon - Pirate boat cruise (Free cruise w/registration bracelet [drinks can be bought on board]) *Get there by 11:30 am

 

Noon and on - ¡Fiesta in the Old Port!

 

playa-bonita-2015 

 

4 pm - 7 pm    BEACH FIESTA @ PLAYA BONITA   * Charity Poker Run awards * Matt Farris  *

  • Charity Poker Run final stop - turn-in cards / winners announced (Hand in cards 5 pm - 6 pm / winners announced approx 7 p.m.) 

Fiesta en Calle 13

 

11  Nov. - Saturday / Sábado

 

8 am - 11:30 am  -  Biker Breakfast special @ Capone's - Ave. Sinaloa  "Big Tuna Saluna"  - get your fill before the parade, right around the corner from the bike parade line-up

 

desfile-parade-2014 (7)  

 

11:30 am - Parade line-up @ Red Cross on Blvd. Fremont Parade winds through town and ends in Malecón

 

malecón-rally-2014 

 

Noon and on   ¡Fiesta in the Old Port!

 

1 pm - 2 pm    Bike Show Registration in Old Port  (on the big plaza - malecón)

 

2 pm - 3 pm    BIKE SHOW  - Prizes in 9 categories, plus People's Choice, Judges Choice, & Best of Show

  • Best Trike
  • Best Chopper
  • Best Vintage
  • Best Sport
  • Best Bagger
  • Best Metric
  • Best Custom
  • Best Paint
  • Best Ingenuity /Inventive

MUSIC ON MALECÓN TECATE MAIN STAGE !   The Black Moods   /  Mogollon

 

moods 

mogollon-2 

 

Fiesta en Calle 13

 

12 Nov. - Sunday / Domingo

 

Starting from 7 a.m. - 9 a.m.    Blessing of the Bikes  - Plaza la Madre  (North side of town, next to stadium)

 

Noon - Pirate boat cruise  (Free cruise w/registration bracelet [drinks can be bought on board])

 

DSC09663  

 

Fiesta in Old Port

 

2016-old port-fiesta 

 

 Top FAQs for Rocky Point Rally™

 

Here's a list of some of the top questions received about the Rally:

 

1. When is the 2017 Rocky Point Rally?   NOVEMBER 9 - 12, 2017

 

2. Where is Rocky Point?     It's surprising to many how close Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point), Sonora, is to the AZ border with just about a 1 hour ride down from the crossing at Lukeville (AZ Highway 85).  Plus, the Coastal Highway to Rocky Point is an option when coming from the West, making it a lot easier for folks from CA and spots near Yuma to easily ride down to Rocky Point.  Over the years, we have noted a lot of people  do a loop from the West by riding in one way (Interstate 8 to Gila Bend, down AZ 85 to the border, and then to Rocky Point ....returning by way of Coastal Highway up through Yuma).

 

Distances / time to Rocky Point:

From either Phoenix or Tucson, AZ    - approx 4 hours  (just one hour from the AZ border Lukeville/Sonoyta crossing)

From San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora (just south of Yuma, AZ) - approx 3.5 hrs

From San Diego, Ca - approx 6 hours

 

3.  Passports?   Yes, a passport or passport card is needed for reentering the US as per the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative of 2009.  Accepted documents include:

  • U.S. Passport
  • U.S. passport card (only valid for travel by land and sea)
  • Enhanced Driver's License (EDL)
  • Trusted Traveler Program cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST
  • Children under 16 arriving by land or sea my present an original or copy of birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate
  • U.S. lawful permanent residents: Permanent resident card (Form I-551)
  • U.S. Military: Valid U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders

4.  Where to stay?  We of course encourage folks to check out accommodations with our local sponsors as they help us keep doing what we do. www.cometorockypoint.com  (local Convention and Visitors Bureau with links & tel #s to area hotels)

 

5. Helmet law?  Yes, there is a helmet law in Mexico....as many long-time Rocky Point Rally goers can tell you, there is quite a bit of leniency particularly around Rally dates.  Ride safe.

 

6. Safety?  Puerto Peñasco is a top tourist destination throughout the year and has added a Tourist Assistance Unit as a complement to local efforts to ensure safety for residents and visitors alike. These folks are bilingual and able to help with questions about the area and general safety.  NOTE:  The U.S. State Department issues updates to travel advice periodically throughout the year, including Mexico. For the past years, tips on traveling to Rocky Point solely indicate "U.S. citizens visiting Puerto Peñasco should use the Lukeville, Arizona/Sonoyta, Sonora border crossing, and limit driving to daylight hours." This is also important as the border crossing at Lukeville/Sonoyta is closed from midnight to 6 a.m.

 

7. Insurance? If you are driving/riding in Mexico you must have Mexican insurance, with liability insurance.  It's worth noting the majority of policies from the U.S. do not cover you in Mexico - though some may extend 75 miles into the country (but CHECK to make sure you have liability insurance). You can get insurance online prior to the Rally, as well as over the phone or at various spots along the way. You need to have valid insurance for your entire stay, along with a valid driver's license. We encourage you to check with our sponsors for rates.  Plus, title sponsor SANBORN'S  offers a special Motorcycle Insurance package just for the Rocky Point Rally - with coverage for medical expenses along with accessories and safety gear!

 

7. Registration?  The annual registration fee is a donation to a number of charity organizations that benefit from the event. The registration packet will include Official Rally memorabilia including the official annual patch and pin - plus gifts from sponsors.

 

8. Meet up points to ride south with a group?  Stay tuned ... these aren't sponsored rides but a good way to meet up with others headed to the Rocky Point Rally.

 

9. Events?  Planning on bands, more rides, a charity poker run in Rocky Point, the traditional bike parade on Saturday to the malecón, bike show, toy donation spot (for the January Toy Run around King's Day), and more.

 

10.  Bands?  Thursday's welcome "Bike Night @ Banditos" will once again feature The Black Moods straight outta AZ.  Friday's sunset party at Playa Bonita is welcoming back country singer Matt Farris from Lake Havasu City - who you can find at Playa Bonita again on Saturday )Veterans Day) for sunset and around town all weekend.  Saturday's Tecate main stage will start up as the Bike Parade rolls into the Old Port - with The Black Moods playing throughout the Bike Show.  That evening will once again feature MOGOLLON!  Don't miss bands at all the local sponsor bars,  as well as night concerts along Calle 12 & 13! 

The Scouting Life in Puerto Penasco 

 

 

 Provided by Deb Turner

 

Approximately a year ago, a Scout troop (boys and girls 4-11-year old's) in Peñasco was formed. A bit later, an older age (13+) troop (2) and seven months ago the San Rafael Scout Troop (3) (5-13-year-old) was formed at the community center Living Stones Ministry- 64th and Benito Juarez)

 

As the troops have grown we have been planning "lessons", activities, guest speakers, etc.

 

Troop 1 (Hailey Villalobos and Marsha Hansen)

Meet Tuesdays at 6:45 pm at Community Center Obrera

 

Troop 2 (Elizabeth)

Meets Wednesdays at the community Center Esperanza (Lazaro Cardenas and 54th avenue) at 7:00 pm

 

 


Troop 3 Meets each Thursday at 6:30 at the San Rafael Community Center on 64th Avenue and Benito Juarez (2 blocks south of Lazaro Cardenas) This troop currently has 24 children.

 

These leaders are David Sillas and Fernando Ramos with Alexia Franco and Rodrigo Franco as co-leaders.

Our troops are independent, neither American Scouts nor Mexican Scouts. We are known as Puerto Peñasco Scouting Project.  

 

We must do a variety of fundraising for activities, books, shirts, scarves, sashes, badges, supplies, camping equipment, etc. to subsidize the projects and events.We have plans for selling fidget spinners ($5.00 or $100.00 pesos each) with our scout logo imprinted. Other fundraising activities include: car washes, boat trips, coffee mugs, box can derby (selling sponsorships for the cars), dinners, etc.

 

 

 

Our activities have included: camping trips, visiting tide pools, Pinacate hiking presentations from D.A.R.E., Red Cross, Barbs Dog Rescue visit, picking up trash in neighborhood and repelling with paramedics from the Instituto UTPP (Universidad Tecnologica de Puerto Peñasco)

 

We are working with educating the young people of Peñasco to accomplish all we do, we need everyone's support.

 

We are always looking for any type of camping equipment and of course, cash donations, We are currently investigating establishing a non-profit in the U.S. to offer tax receipts.

 

 

 

Also, wanted to give you a heads up on some upcoming Scout fundraisers.
 

October 10th
Ecofun sunset cruise at 4:30 - $ 25.00 dollars.
We also need help raising funds for a couple of scouts and leaders to attend.

October 19th  

Tony 's Cafe pasta dinner. 4-8 pm
Raising money to pay for accident insurance for the scouts.

November 4th
Box car derby
Scouts will be designing and decorating their box
Looking for sponsors for cars - $20.00 dollars

 

Please spread the word

Thanks,
Deb Turner

 

For more information, please contact:

 

Haley Villalobos       638-104-1515

Marsha Hansen       520-234-2577

Barb O                     638-114-2406

Deb Turner              638-386-8645

Rick Turner              638-107-6750

Cindy Hall                638-105-2669

Cross Border Traffic through Lukeville Increases 22% Since 2010  



There has been a 22% increase on crossings at the Lukeville/Sonoyta International border from 2010 to 2017, mostly due to travelers visiting Puerto Penasco, according to Hector Vazques del Mercado, President of the Convention and Visitors Office.

 

This figure indicates that the number of visitors to Rocky Point has improved significantly and speaks to the confidence that tourists from the USA have in coming to Puerto Penasco to enjoy their vacations. Also contributing to the increase are factors such as the improvement in the relationship between the Sonora and the Arizona governments, the safety of the Penasco area, the Peso to Dollar exchange rate, improvements in city infrastructure and attention to the needs of tourists, as well as the increase in promotion of the lodging accommodations and attractions, mostly in Arizona.

 

Vazquez del Mercado noted that this 22% increase was reported by the WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) program of the CBP (Customs and Border Protection), which began operation in June of 2009.

 

Since implementation of the program in 2009, statistics have become much more reliable because the number of cars entering is done automatically and not manually, as was done before that time. Also contributing to the accuracy is the need for use of a passport, which is scanned and tallied by the system, he said.

 

"In 2010, we had less than 200,000 visitors, and this year, 2017, from January to July, we had already seen an increase of 22%, or approximately 237,000 vehicles crossing the border through Lukeville."

Phoenix to Rocky Point Bus Service Begins   
 

 

As of last week, TAP Bus Line has begun service between Phoenix and Puerto Penasco. Prices are very reasonable and the buses offer comfortable seating, movies, and even WiFi service for your short 4 hour ride. The normal price of $40 each way is already a bargain, but for a limited time, they are offering a discounted price if you make your reservations online. And, believe it or not, they are offering the trip FREE of charge through Monday, October 2nd. If you act fast, maybe you can ride for free.

In Phoenix, the bus will make stops at Sky Harbor Airport and the Arizona Mills Mall. In Rocky Point, the bus will stop at Penasco del Sol Hotel at the end of Calle 13. For reservations, visit their website, Taproyal.com, select departure drop down 'Phoenix West', and destination Puerto Peñasco.
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.



 
New RV Park Opens on Sandy Beach Road
 
With the increase in tourism over the past several years, and with the frequent sold-out status of Rocky Point's three main RV parks, it made perfect sense that two enterprising entrepreneurs decided that the time was right to open a new, full-service RV resort, conveniently located on Sandy Beach Road, just before "condo row". 
  
Sunset RV Park is now officially open and they boast great amenities and great prices. Whether short or long term, if you're bringing an RV to town, you should check them out. They offer Free hot breakfast, a large salt-water swimming pool, WiFi, a dog park (with real grass), restrooms/showers, coin-op laundry, palapa grilling station, and 60 RV and boat storage slips of all sizes.    
 
The past couple years have seen an explosion of new restaurants, bars, and retail shops popping up around town, but this RV park is the first in a very long time, giving one more example of the growing popularity and economy in Puerto Penasco. Keep Sunset RV in mind when thinking about where to stay next time you're in town.  You can contact them at: [email protected], or call 011-52-638-388-5094 (MX) and 480-525-2917 (USA).   
 
 
 
 
  
Huge Turnout for Grito de Dolores Independance Day Celebration 
 
Literally thousands of festive partiers showed up on Mexico's Independence Day Eve in front of the Public Administration building on Freemont Blvd. The traditional annual event is popular throughout Mexico and always gathers huge crowds to enjoy the festivities and the speech and "grito" given by the Mayor. This year there was also a huge, traditional, fireworks wheel which wowed the crowd. If you have never experienced one of the huge wheels showering sparks on the crowds, you've been missing out. Celebrations went on into the wee hours of the next morning and, undoubtedly, began again with a cold michelada and some menudo. Salud and Viva Mexico!   
  
  
    
 
Rocky Point Best Lodging Tax Contributor in Sonora 
 
The latest numbers are out and, once again, Rocky Point dominantly tops the list in providing lodging tax to the State of Sonora. During the period of January through July 2017, Puerto Penasco generated over 36% of the tax, easily remaining the most profitable tourist destination in our state.
 
The next in line was Hermosillo with 28.5, followed by San Carlos/Guaymas at 11.4%. Both State and Federal government officials are well aware of the important role that Penasco plays in generating tax income and they have continued to increase support to our little city on the sea in anticipation of even more expected future growth.    
 



 
Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests and Eggs 
 
This Summer has seen an unusually high number of sea turtles laying their eggs around Rocky Point with six nests on Sandy Beach alone in the past month. In each case, officials from the Puerto Penasco Tourist Assistance Unit were quick to respond, roping the area off to keep out the curious spectators until the eggs could be carefully removed in order to be placed in incubators to help ensure that they eggs would hatch. The baby turtles will then be returned to the areas of the nests to be released into the sea. There is nothing like watching more than a hundred tiny turtles scrambling down the beach and into the waves.

According to officials from the Federal Maritime Land Zone (ZOFEMAT), there were well over 300 eggs retrieved from the Sandy Beach area. Adding in eggs recovered from nests in Las Conchas and Playa Encanto, they reported 557 eggs recovered in total so far this year. This number is unheard of in this area and is about triple the number of eggs gathered all of last year. The eggs are being attended by biologist Itzel Cardenas from the Vidanta Group along with support and assistance of CEDO. 



 
   

1.4 million Americans Traveled Abroad for Medical Care in 2016

 

According to Patients Beyond Borders, an estimated 1.4 million Americans traveled abroad in 2016 for medical care, and the market has been growing at 15-25 percent a year. The association estimates the size of the market at $45-72 billion USD annually.

The savings by going abroad range from 20-30 percent in Brazil to 65-90 percent in India. Savings in Thailand are 50-75 percent and 40-65 percent in Mexico. With healthcare costs soaring, the cost of a trip abroad is barely a blip on that scale.

The most popular kinds of treatments Americans are currently seeking abroad include cosmetic surgery, dentistry, heart transplants, orthopedic surgery, cancer treatments and fertility treatments. The top destinations are Costa Rica, India, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Turkey. Mexico and South and Southeast Asia are seeing the largest numbers of inbound medical tourists.
 



   

Filming of Mexican Movie in Locations around Puerto Peñasco

 

Puerto Peñasco is once again a site for important film projects, with recent shooting in different locations of the feature film "Jappy Days", reported Mayor Kiko Munro during a press conference alongside film crew and cast.

 

Together with renowned Mexican producer, director, actor, writer, and screenwriter Pedro Damián, Sonoyta mayor Heriberto Serrano, and Raúl Valencia Beltrones, Director of Regional Tourism and Cinematography, Mayor Munro congratulated the film crew for having chosen Puerto Peñasco as the location for the movie.

 

"May all of Mexico, and around the world, see the virtues and wonders of Puerto Peñasco as a tourist destination," expressed the mayor, adding, "Peñasco is always welcoming with open arms, inviting you to enjoy the great gastronomic riches, safety and friendliness of its people, as well as the emblematic places where you can take in the best sunsets over the Sea of Cortez".

 

Raul Valenzuela Beltrones reaffirmed support from the administration of Governor Claudia Pavlovich for these types of projects, which help spread the word about places like Puerto Peñasco.

 

 

  
  

Mayor Kiko Munro Presents Home Port Project at Bi-National Arizona - Mexico Meeting

 

In further promoting tourism development in Puerto Peñasco while attracting new investment, Mayor Kiko Munro took part in a binational meeting of representatives from Arizona and Mexico held recently in Mexico City.

 

The mayor presented information on the strategic Home Port project at the meeting, which included 27 Arizona State Legislators, as well as representatives for Republican Congress members Tony Rivero and Rosanna Gabaldon, along with 25 business and academic leaders from Arizona.

 

He emphasized tourism to the area has grown to 2.5 million visitors in 2017, with a large part of these coming from California, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico, as well as from the states of Baja California and Chihuahua in Mexico.

 

He noted this year Puerto Peñasco became the first city in Sonora to obtain Clean Beach certification, which at 1525 lineal meters is also the longest stretch of certified clean beach in Mexico.  With Puerto Peñasco situated on the Sea of Cortez, which has been called the "world's aquarium," along with its proximity to the United States, the mayor stressed the city has attractive offers for the global cruise market, which would mean a potential increase in the number of tourists along with important economic revenue for the area.




 

Municipal Administration Honors Firemen's Day

 

 In commemorating Fireman's Day, the municipal administration of Mayor Kiko Munro carried out a ceremony and lively gathering for the brave heroes of the local fire department.  In recognition of the admirable task of those put their lives at risk to care for and protect the community, the city presented several acknowledgments as well as department promotions.

 

On behalf of the mayor, City Secretary Olayn García Cinco, along with Director of Civil Protection Francisco Javier Carrillo Ruíz, and Fire Commander Ramón Esteban Manuel Lara, led the moving ceremony with members of the fire department, which was also attended by Héctor Rivera, one of the department's initial founders.

 

During the ceremony, Carrillo Ruiz also announced acquisition of a new ambulance, keys of which were symbolically handed over by City Secretary García Cinco to Fire Commander Ramón Esteban Manual Lara.

 
 
 
   

Puerto Peñasco and Glendale, AZ Agree On Sister City Relationship and Collaboration between Chambers of Commerce

 

Thanks to coordinated efforts between Puerto Peñasco mayor Kiko Munro and Glendale mayor Jerry Weiers, an important meeting was achieved in bringing together the Chambers of Commerce from each city.

 

The goal of the gathering between representatives of both border cities, stated mayor Kiko Munro, was to reach agreements as to the possibility of interchamber collaborative agreements and a sister city relationship that would strengthen business, educational, and cultural bonds between the two.

 

"We continue deepening cooperation and strengthening transborder initiatives with the United States," explained the mayor, detailing the city has previously entered Sister City agreements with the cities of Ruidoso, New Mexico, Pima County in Arizona, as well as the city of Somerton, AZ. "We now have the opportunity to obtain a sister relationship with the city of Glendale, Arizona."

 

During the meeting, the two mayors discussed topics of economic development, tourism, and binational issues that would benefit both cities.  
 

Mayor Kiko Munro Gives Second State of the City Address 

 

 

 

In a public address outlining the state of Puerto Penasco and his administration, Mayor Kiko Munro detailed that they have completed more than 75% of the promises made during his campaign. These ongoing accomplishments are in the areas of public works, security, education, social development, public health, improved potable water supply, continued economic recovery, and tourism.

 

The Mayor was accompanied by his wife and President of the Municipal DIF Charity, First Lady Linda Pivac Munro, and by Ernesto de Lucas Hopkins, Secretary of Education and representative for Governor Claudia Pavlovich Arellano, as he began his speech at the Municipal Convention Center to a gathering of more than 500 guests and spectators.

 

Mayor Munro thanked all in attendance for their support and encouragement, and explained how his administration endears transparency and accountability in all matters pertaining to their important work towards making Puerto Penasco an even better place to live and to visit. He reiterated that he will always give the facts and, regardless of popularity, both he and his administration will always be accountable and will never hide the truth from the public.

 

"Today, I have held this office for two years in pursuit of the reconstruction and relaunch of this great city", said the Mayor before a full auditorium. "I invite you to celebrate with me, now two years after the start of our administration and management of government and in the process of seeing great changes materialize that positively benefit the quality of life for all of our people where it counts, in every colonia, and in every corner of Puerto Penasco".

 

He further acknowledged that working directly with the citizens has shown great benefits and many of the achievements of his administration came from the close relationships and dialogues that he maintains with residents and visitors to our city, describing the importance of government directly responding to the needs of society by listening to feedback, criticism, pressure, encouragement, and motivation from individuals in all sectors. This is a formula that has worked well for Mayor Munro during his two years in office.

 

The representative for Governor Pavlovich agreed, saying "In the State Government, we know that Ernesto "Kiko" Munro is a loyal public servant with excellent work ethic, superb management skills, and a close relationship with the citizens of Puerto Penasco. We support Mayor Munro in helping both Puerto Penasco and Sonora to continue winning".

 

Mayor Kiko Munro then highlighted work that has been achieved thus far during his administration in accordance with the other levels of government. He also commended the DIF charity for their efforts and achievements during the two years in which First Lady Linda Pivac Munro has been at its helm.

 

A few of the major achievements accomplished during his two years in office include more than 390,000 square meters of new street pavement, encompassing 16 main streets in the city with an investment of over 209 million pesos. A permanent scraping, patching, and repair program has been in full swing, helping to keep the rest of the streets in good repair. New LED street lighting now illuminates 58% of the city, with the installation of 1,100 new lights. Faded, damaged, or missing street signs have been replaced with over 700 having been installed at this point.

 

Utilities have been improved, upgraded, and added as well during the first two years. Underground sewer systems now service 80% of the city, electricity has surpassed 75% coverage, potable drinking water is now available in 85% of households, and 100% of the city is covered by regular trash pickup. Mayor Munro was also able to renegotiate and reorganize the city debt, which had accumulated during the several years of depressed economy as a result of the recent recession which affected Mexico, USA, and the entire world. This reorganization will save the city a substantial amount of money and will make it easier to continue to move the city in the right direction. 

Celebrating Life on Day of the Dead in Mexico
Day of the Dead in Mexico - Catarinas

 

One of Mexico's most important religious holidays is celebrated on All Saint's Day (Nov 1) and All Soul's Day (Nov 2): Dia de los Muertos (sometimes called Dia de los Fieles Difuntos) - Day of the Dead.   Traditionally, November 1st honors deceased children and November 2nd honors deceased adults.

 

Far from being a morbid event, Day of Dead emphasizes remembrance of past lives and celebration of the continuity of life.  This acknowledgement of life's continuity has roots which go back to some of Mexico's oldest civilizations: Olmec, Zapotec, Maya, Purepecha.   The Aztecs, too, celebrated Day of the Dead, although earlier (August) on the current calendar.

 

Day of the Dead is celebrated passionately throughout Mexico, and especially so in smaller provincial towns and cities.

One of the culinary highlights of the season is "Pan de Muerto" (Bread of the Dead) which is a semi-sweet sugar-coated bread made from eggs and infused with natural citrus fruit flavors.  It's traditionally taken with hot chocolate that has been mixed with cinnamon and makes for an ideal combination on a chilly November evening.

 

Planning for Day of the Dead can be done days, weeks, or even a whole year in advance, during which time family members will gather ofrendas, offerings, to the dead.  Toys are usually offered for deceased children and bottles of tequila, mezcal, or atole for deceased adults.  Trinkets, or the deceased's favorite food or candy, may also be offered on the grave.

 

During the celebratory period, it's traditional for families to visit the cemeteries where their loved ones are buried to clean and to decorate the graves with the offerings.  Offerings are also put in homes, usually with foods such as caramelized pumpkin, Pan de Muerto and small sugar skulls which are sometimes engraved with the deceased person's name.  Decorations usually include orange marigold flowers called cempaxochitl, or Flor de Muerto ("Flower of the Dead").

 

Day of the Dead is a holiday that attracts a certain fascination for visitors from abroad. Celebrations in the city of Oaxaca and the town of Patzcuaro are particularly well attended by foreign visitors; early bookings for local accommodation are essential if you want to experience Day of the Dead at either of these places.

 

The precise ceremonies, offerings, and customs for Day of the Dead celebrations vary by region and town.  However, the fundamental traditions described here are echoed all over Mexico and a visit to a cemetery, where the graves are bursting with color and decorations, and the lives of those past are lovingly remembered by those present, is one of the most rewarding cultural experiences in Mexico during this time of year.

 

November 2nd is an official Public Holiday in Mexico.

 

 

La Cantina Sports Bar at Sonoran Sky Hosts Noche de Catrinas

 

   

If you would like to celebrate in true Mexican Dia de los Muertos tradition this month, be sure to come by La Cantina Sports Bar at the Sonoran Sky October 26th through the 28th for Noche de Catrinas. Enjoy the special decorations, food and drink and specials, and dance the night away to the live music with fellow "catrinas". This special event will be one to be remembers. And, don't forget your camera as there will be plenty of perfect photo opportunities. Of course, the night will be best enjoyed if you dress the part and don your best catrina makeup. Don't miss it!  

2017 InterNations Survey: Expats Still Favor Mexico


Are you entertaining the idea of becoming one of the 9 million U.S. expats who live overseas, but wondering how welcome you'd feel in a specific country? Where your money will take you the furthest? Which countries are best for boosting your career?

 

InterNations.org recently released the results of its 4th annual Expat Insider Survey, one of the world's largest surveys offering an in-depth analysis of expat life across the globe.

 

After 2016's focus on working abroad, this year's survey takes a closer look at the Ease of Settling In Index, which ranks the best places among 65 destinations around the world where expats feel at home, based on everything from how welcome they feel in their country of residence to how easy it is to make friends.

 

More than 12,500 respondents representing 166 nationalities and living in 188 countries answered a series of questions relating to their experiences living abroad. The results provide unique insights into the best and worst places for expats to live in 2017.

The top 10 favorite places for expats were (in descending order): Bahrain, Costa Rica, Mexico, Taiwan, Portugal, New Zealand, Malta, Colombia, Singapore and Spain.

 

Mexico: A Consistent Favorite

 

Ranking in the top 5 of the Expat Insider survey every year, Mexico retakes its place in the top 3 in 2017. In fact, it's in the top 5 for three indices: Ease of Settling In, Personal Finance, and Cost of Living. One Filipino respondent summed up their experience saying "the climate is almost perfect, the people are friendly, and the food is to die for."

 

Despite losing the top spot, Mexico does very well in the Ease of Settling In Index, coming in second place. One American respondent said "I like how easy it is to adapt, and the people are incredibly friendly."

 

A significant number of respondents say they primarily moved to Mexico for a better quality of life (14%). Though healthcare and safety damage its overall ranking in the Quality of Life Index, it ranks first in the Personal Happiness subcategory and does well in the Leisure Options subcategory, ranking first for socializing and leisure activities.

 

Expats in Mexico are also happy with their financial situation. In fact, 80% considered the cost of living a potential benefit before moving. The country ranks fourth in the Personal Finance Index and second in the Cost of Living Index, and 74% of expats say they're generally satisfied with their financial situation.

 

2017's Biggest Losers  

 

Greece, because of its financial woes, was at the bottom of the list of 65 countries. Other bottom dwellers were: Kuwait, Nigeria, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Italy, Ukraine, India & Turkey.

 

Interestingly, Australia, a perennial top 10 country for expats, fell to 34th place in this year's study. But, even more interesting, the United States ranked just 43rd out of 65 countries overall, 17 places lower than in 2016.  

Shell Opens First Gas Station in Mexico as Part of Planned $1B USD Investment

 

 

Anglo-Dutch oil major Royal Dutch Shell opened its first gas station in Mexico on Tuesday Sept. 5, adding to a growing list of foreign-branded pumps in a market still dominated by the green-colored outlets of state-owned company Pemex, Reuters reported.

 

Following a 2013 constitutional energy overhaul that ended Pemex' decades-long monopoly, private companies can now brand gas stations and sell non-Pemex brand gasoline and diesel, as well as import fuels.

 

The opportunities are huge for the private sector in the fuel market of Latin America's second-biggest economy, with Mexico now one of the world's biggest gasoline consumers and the top foreign importer of U.S. gasoline.

Shell said in a statement it plans to open an unspecified number of additional service stations and that investment in Mexico's fuel sector could reach about $1 billion over the next decade "if current market conditions are maintained."

 

The company's inaugural gas station, which also features a convenience store, is located in a northwestern suburb of the sprawling Mexican capital.

 

Shell, which in June won a shallow water exploration and production contract along with France's Total, operates more than 43,000 gas stations in some 80 countries worldwide.

 

Mexico boasts some 11,400 gas stations, the vast majority of which remain Pemex franchises.

Trident, Other Brands will be 100% Mexican



Mondelez's Puebla factory will source all its gum base from Mexico

Trident, Chiclets and other brands of chewing gum will be 100% Mexican by early next year.


Mondelez International, a multinational confectionery, food, and beverage company with four manufacturing plants in Mexico, is switching to base gum from Mexico rather than the United States, and expects all its gum to be Mexican by the first quarter of 2018.

 

"We started the gum certification process this year, and beginning in 2018 gum produced in the Puebla plant will be 100% Mexican," said Mondelez executive Alberto Flores Callejas.

 

The company is investing US $34 million this year in its four Mexican plants, part of an investment program that has injected a total of $133 million in Mexico since 2014.

 

Part of the investment has been allocated to transform the Puebla plant so it can produce powdered beverages as well as candy and gum.

 

Mondelez has a similarly equipped plant in Poland but decided to focus on Mexico given that it represents one of the firm's most dynamic revenue sources, along with India and Vietnam.


Mexico is also attractive because it is the second largest market in the world for chewing gum, behind the United States.

 

Puebla plant manager Cristiano Fernandez said that while the company plans to produce 100% Mexican chewing gum by next year, the goal is already 95% complete.

 

The factory produces 80,000 tonnes of chewing gum a year, 52% of which is exported to 26 countries. The firm's flagship brand is Trident, representing 70% of its sales. Other brands include Clorets, Chiclets and Bubbaloo.

In addition to Puebla, Mondelez has manufacturing plants in Nuevo León, state of México and Mexico City.

 

Chewing gum has a long history in Mexico. The Mayans and the Mexicas, or Aztecs, figured out how to harvest chicle, a resin extracted from the sapodilla tree. 

New 'Taco Cleanse' Is Actually Good For Your Health

 

 

 

Cleanses are big in the health-food sphere right now. Whether it's souping, juicing or some other diet (does anyone remember the nightmarish Master Cleanse?), it seems like the prevailing conventional wisdom is that your insides are dirty and need to be cleaned with copious amounts of lemon juice and cayenne. But now there's a new fad called the "taco cleanse," and for the first time we might actually be able to stick to a diet!

 

First things first: The taco cleanse is vegan, and that's part of the reason it's actually healthy. (Did you really think we were going to advocate for eating tacos al pastor seven nights a week? Sorry to disappoint!) Sticking to a plant-based diet is a great way to get your eating habits in line with your health goals.

 

The idea for the this tempting diet comes from a cookbook called "The Taco Cleanse: The Tortilla-Based Diet Proven to Change Your Life." It was published a couple years ago, and has garnered a lot of headlines and some devotees. Of the people who have tried it, the responses have been overwhelmingly positive. Apparently Jennifer Aniston bought the cookbook as soon as she heard about it.

 

So how does this magical taco-only diet work? Well, it doesn't claim to necessarily help with weight loss, but it does promise other health benefits such as lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Sure, you're eating a bunch of tortillas, but you're stuffing them with all kinds of good-for-you vegetables and plant-based proteins like legumes-likely a big improvement on your current diet.  

 

Plus, the taco cleanse brings some of the fun back to eating (what's more fun than tacos?!). That's a big departure from the deprivation people feel when they're on bland and restrictive diets.

 

In keeping with the light-hearted approach to eating, the taco cleanse even prescribes drinking what the creators call "the required margarita supplements." Yes, this is a diet plan that includes booze!

 

Though the self-described "taco scientists" who wrote the cookbook don't profess to be experts in weight loss, it's not easy to picture losing a couple pounds with recipes like jackfruit brisket, tempeh picadillo and ion-charged refried beans. Especially when you can wash it down with everything from a "Mexican" martini to avocado margaritas. In addition to offering up 75 yummy vegan recipes, the cookbook also mocks our diet-obsessed culture, reminding readers that eating isn't supposed to be torturous.

 

"We can become so obsessed with cleansing and 'perfect' diets that we develop eating disorders or at least spend an unnecessary amount of our lives worrying about filling our diets with righteousness," Stephanie Bogdanich, one of the book's authors, told Women's Health.

 

The cookbook will teach you how to make your own tortillas in addition to giving you tons of taco recipe ideas for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert. Though the cleanse is supposed to be 30 days of vegan eating, you can certainly adapt it to vegetarian (tacos without cheese?!) if going "cold Tofurkey" is too difficult for you.


Mango Habanero Black Bean Tacos

 

 

 

These really couldn't be easier - just chop and mix your ingredients - salsa, avocado, black beans, etc, and stuff them into a tortilla. (Add cheese if you want, but these are plenty flavorful without). Or even switch things up by adding a grilled piece of halibut or salmon.

 

If you don't have mango habanero jam: try jazzing up your mango salsa with chipotle spices (either from a can of chipotles in adobo or ground chipotle powder)... or if you're really brave try adding roasted habanero peppers (just don't touch your eyes after you handle them!). You can also make this salsa with diced ripe peaches or pineapple instead of mango.

 

Mango Habanero Black Bean Tacos Recipe:

 

4-6 tacos (serves 2)

 

Ingredients:

 

    1 small mango, diced

    ¼ cup diced red onion

    1 diced red padrone pepper (or ¼ cup red bell)

    juice of 1 lime

    splash of olive oil

    handful of cilantro, chopped

    ¾ cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed

    1 avocado, diced

    1-2 teaspoons, mango habanero jam*

    salt, to taste

    4-6 flour (or gluten free corn) tortillas

    optional: crumbled cotija cheese

    optional: greek yogurt w/ lime & salt

 

Instructions:

 

In a medium bowl stir together diced mango, red onion, red pepper, lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, avocado, black beans and 1-2 teaspoons of mango habanero jam. Add a few generous pinches of salt. Taste and adjust seasonings. Chill until ready to use.

 

 Char (or warm) your tortillas, and fill.

Optional: top with crumbly cheese and/or seasoned greek yogurt (or sour cream), and extra habanero jam on the side.

 

Enjoy!

Terremoto or Temblor? Well, it Depends


Mexicans have three words for earthquake:

 

Temblor - literally "tremor" - is the most commonly used, and is applied to most of the small and medium sized quakes that rattle parts of the country from time to time.

 

Terremoto is reserved for the big earthquakes, like the ones that struck in April 2013 on the border between Guerrero and Oaxaca states, and the powerful one that killed thousands in Mexico city during September 1985.

 

Sismo - a seismic event - is a more  scientific term preferred by geologists, officials, and some others, including many journalists, but you will rarely if ever hear somebody ask: "¿sentiste el sismo?"

 

Mexico experiences earthquakes quite frequently, the larger ones of which are usually followed by a series of smaller aftershocks. Larger quakes can cause significant, damage especially near the epicenter.  The most common physical damage to buildings following larger quakes include cracks in ceilings and walls, broken glass, and damage to road structures or street furniture.

 

There is no specific level or "magnitude" that defines whether an earthquake gets the name "temblor," or "terremoto." Nor is there any specific amount of damage to draw a line between the two, although anyone calling the disastrous quake that hit Mexico in September 1985 a temblor would definitely be scoffed at for their understatement.

 

The choice of word can depend  on where the person was at the time of the quake, and under what conditions.

 

Someone on the ground floor in a rocky part of  the town or city might shrug off as a temblor what another on the 10th floor of a tower built on the muddy ancient lake bed of the capital would refuse to call anything but a terremoto, given the increased swaying.





Let me know if you would like links to any of the earlier ones. (There are over 6 years worth)
Sonoran Sky Resort

Sonoran Sun Resort


Sonoran Sea Resort


Sonoran Spa Resort



Just for the fun of it...


A history lesson for people who think that history doesn't matter:

 

What's the big deal about railroad tracks?

 

The US standard railroad gauge (distance between the rails) is 4 feet, 8.5 inches. That's an exceedingly odd number.

 

Why was that gauge used?
Well, because that's the way they built them in England, and English engineers designed the first US railroads.

 

Why did the English build them like that?
Because the first rail lines were built by the same people who built the wagon tramways, and that's the gauge they used.

 

So, why did 'they' use that gauge then?
Because the people who built the tramways used the same jigs and tools that they had used for building wagons, which used that same wheel spacing.

 

Why did the wagons have that particular odd wheel spacing?
Well, if they tried to use any other spacing, the wagon wheels would break more often on some of the old, long distance roads in England . You see, that's the spacing of the wheel ruts.

 

So who built those old rutted roads?
Imperial Rome built the first long distance roads in Europe (including England ) for their legions. Those roads have been used ever since.

 

And what about the ruts in the roads?
Roman war chariots formed the initial ruts, which everyone else had to match or run the risk of destroying their wagon wheels. Since the chariots were made for Imperial Rome , they were all alike in the matter of wheel spacing. Therefore the United States standard railroad gauge of 4 feet, 8.5 inches is derived from the original specifications for an Imperial Roman war chariot. Bureaucracies live forever.

 

So the next time you are handed a specification/procedure/process and wonder 'What horse's ass came up with this?', you may be exactly right. Imperial Roman army chariots were made just wide enough to accommodate the rear ends of two war horses. (Two horses' asses.)


Now, the twist to the story:

 

When you see a Space Shuttle sitting on its launch pad, there are two big booster rockets attached to the sides of the main fuel tank. These are solid rocket boosters, or SRBs. The SRBs are made by Thiokol at their factory in Utah . The engineers who designed the SRBs would have preferred to make them a bit fatter, but the SRBs had to be shipped by train from the factory to the launch site. The railroad line from the factory happens to run through a tunnel in the mountains, and the SRBs had to fit through that tunnel. The tunnel is slightly wider than the railroad track, and the railroad track, as you now know, is about as wide as two horses' behinds.  

 

So, a major Space Shuttle design feature, of what is arguably the world's most advanced transportation system, was determined over two thousand years ago by the width of a horse's ass. And you thought being a horse's ass wasn't important? Ancient horse's asses control almost everything and....

 

Current Horses Asses are controlling everything else. 







 

Sonoran Sun W101
3 BD Ground Floor End Unit
$449,000

 Link To Listing 
PENDING SALE! 


Fantastic Views  of Sea of Cortez and Old Port from this ground floor Beach Front end unit with wrap around patio. Non rental unit with lots of privacy. Beautifully furnished and turn-key ready to go. This would make a super rental, or keep it all for yourself. Come and see this one. You're sure to be very impressed.

Call Today: 602-476-7511


Sonoran Sky 1003 
2 Bedroom/2 Bath 
$425,000

 
 
SUPER AGGRESSIVE NEW PRICE! 
 
IMMACULATE CONDO AND FURNISHINGS
       
Come and see this fantastic condo at the luxurious Sonoran Sky Resort. You will not be disappointed as the owners have taken excellent care of the condo and have taken great care in keeping it looking like brand new. Beautifully furnished and in excellent condition, you need to see this condo in order to appreciate it. Best price on a 2 Bedroom at the Sonoran Sky. Come and see this one before its gone. Call us today for an appointment!

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Spa E108
2 Bedroom Ground Floor
$289,900


Link to Listing
PENDING SALE!  
 
 This condo is a rare find as the only ground floor listing at the Spa for quite some time. Ground floor condos offer the best rental income and they always sell quickly. Beautifully upgraded and fully furnished - ready to go for your family or for a great rental income. An aggressive price and available Seller financing make this one a sure bet. Contact one of our Agents for more details. Come see this one today! 

 Call Today for Information or to Schedule a Tour

602-476-7511

WiFi Cafe and Convenience Store
Sonoran Sea Resort
$154,900

PENDING SALE! 


Are you thinking about moving here to paradise but don't know how you would make a living? Well, this might just be your lucky day! How about owning a WiFi Cafe and Convenience store, right inside the lobby of the beautiful Sonoran Sea Resort? This turn-key business INCLUDES the Real Estate! Terms Available! This is a very rare opportunity so please give us a call today. Now offering 20 year financing with a 50% down payment.


Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Spa N803
1 BR North Building
$152,000


 Link to Listing 
Back on the Market!

This is a great condo, recently, very tastefully remodeled, with absolutely stunning ocean views at the Sonoran Spa Resort. If you are looking for a truly turn-key beauty, this is it.  Great price. Great views. Ready to go. You can't lose on this one. Take a look!

Call Today: 602-476-7511


Sonoran Sky 410 
4 Bedroom 4 Bath Premium
$850,000


FANTASTIC CONDO AT A FANTASTIC PRICE!

ASSUMABLE LONG TERM LOAN! 

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.

Call Today: 602-476-7511


Sonoran Sea E708
3BR East Building
$359,000 


 Link to Listing 
 
SALE PENDING! 

I really can't believe that this condo is still available. This is a great condo at a super great price. You even get a private garage with the condo. This beautiful Ocean Front condo has unbelievable views and a truly fantastic price. Owner priced it to sell and it won't last long. Nicely furnished and turn-key ready to go. Put it in the rental pool for income or just keep it for yourself and your family. Either way, you can't go wrong with this beauty. Includes your own private garage for your vehicles and toys.  You really need to come and see this one before it's gone.
 
Call Today: 602-476-7511


 

Sonoran Spa W707        

2 Bedroom 2 Bath      

$229,900      

 

 Link to Listing  

GREAT PRICE!

   

Super nice two bedroom condo with stunning ocean and beach views. Nicely furnished and turn-key ready to go. Would make a very good rental or keep it all for yourself. Prices like these are going away fast so come check this one out before it's gone.     Call for more details!   

Come and see this one. You'll be glad you did!       

 

 Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Spa N805
1 Bedroom  Top Floor 

$149,000

PRICED TO SELL QUICKLY! 

Beautifully furnished condo on the top floor of the Sonoran Spa Resort. Sold fully furnished and turn-key ready to move in.  Condos like this one priced so low don't come on the market very often so you need to hurry before it's gone.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

 
Sonoran Sky 310


4 Bedroom Premium Luxury
Brand New Developer Condo   
$989,900

Link to Listing

NO PAYMENTS/INTEREST FIRST YEAR
     
UNBELIEVABLE LUXURY AND VIEWS

LONG TERM FINANCING    20% DOWN
 

This condo shows like a dream. It is the absolute epitome of luxury with views all the way down the beach from the huge, wrap-around terrace. Brand New with full warranty. No payments or HOA dues for one full year. This condo must be seen to be appreciated.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sky 1403
2 Bedroom Beachfront Luxury
$479.000


 Link to Listing   
NEW LISTING!

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.

Call Today: 602-476-7511


Sonoran Sea W804
2 Bedroom West Building
$269,900


GREAT PRICE ON 2 BEDROOM AT THE SEA  
INCLUDES PRIVATE GARAGE!

This is a great price for a 2 bedroom at the Sonoran Sea and the condo has everything! Beautifully furnished and would make a great rental. Won't last long. Ocean Front luxury at a great price. Call for details or to schedule a tour. You need to act fast on this special deal.

Come see for yourself.

Call Today: 602-476-7511



Sonoran Sea E705
2 Bedroom East Building
$275,000 

 Link to Listing 
Great New Price!  Ready to Sell!

Check out this beautiful, fully furnished, two bedroom condo at the Sonoran Sea Resort. Seventh floor location gives fantastic views down the beach and still allows for easy access to beach, pools, Jacuzzis, store, restaurant, etc. 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. 

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sea E109
1BR Ground floor
$219,900

Link to Listing
 
GROUND FLOOR ONE BEDROOM

GREAT RENTAL PROPERTY 

Here is a popular ground floor condo priced to sell. These units don't come up for sale often. Beautifully furnished and great rental history are just the beginnings. Walk right out your door and to the pool and beach. Embrace the fabulous unobstructed beachfront views of the Sea of Cortez. This one is already getting alot of attention so act quickly and don't miss out on this fantastic bargain.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sky 1107
2 Bedroom with Financing
$509,900 

 Link to Listing 
LOW DOWN PAYMENT AND LONG TERM LOAN

BRAND NEW FURNISHINGS AND UPGRADES

This condo must be seen to be believed. Panoramic views down the beach in both directions. Condo is in perfect condition with brand new furnishings and a long term assumable developer loan at 5.9%. This could be a great rental - perfect for your family, friends, or a group purchase. Call our office for more details. This one could be your dream come true.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sun E702   
2 BR East Building  
$299,900
 
VIEWS! VIEWS! VIEWS! 

NON-RENTAL CONDO 

Beautiful turn key condo at the Sun. Views all the way down the beach and to the new Home Port. Fantastic sunsets right from your terrace. 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. Come see it today.

 602-476-7511  

Sonoran Sky 601
4 Bedroom Luxury End Unit
$829,900


Link to Listing 
FANTASTIC PRICE ON LUXURY 4 BED 4 BATH
HUGE WRAP AROUND TERRACE

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!

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sea E802
2BR East Building
$299,000

 Link to Listing 
NOW GREAT TERMS AVAILABLE!!! 
      
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.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sun W212
1 Bedroom West Building
$199,500


 Link to Listing   
EXCELLENT RENTAL HISTORY!       
   
Brand new listing 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.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Spa E504
2BR East Building
$224,900


  NON-RENTAL CONDO!  

PRICE ADJUSTED FOR QUICK SALE!

This condo is very nicely furnished, turnkey ready to go and has some of the best views on Sandy Beach. One day soon, you'll watch the ships roll in from your very own private terrace. This condo is a non-rental and it shows. Nicely furnished and just waiting for you. Give us a call or stop by the on-site sales office today! 

Call Today: 602-476-7511


Sonoran Sun E101  
3BR Ground Floor
$599,000

 
Link to Listing
  MUST SEE TO BELIEVE  
 
This is one of the few condos that really must be seen to be appreciated. It is a ground floor, end unit with more privacy than you would expect in a resort. Right on the beach and near everything, yet far enough from the pool and pool bar to give make it quiet and peaceful. These condos rarely come up for sale so please come and check it out right away. Beautifully furnished and turn-key ready to go. This condo has never been used as a rental and was always meticulously cared for by the owners.

Call Today: 602-476-7511



Sonoran Spa N807
1 B R Top Floor
$165,000

 


Top floor one bedroom condo available at the Sonoran Spa Resort is priced to sell. Great views and nicely furnished. This condo is ready to go and it can be yours. Contact one of our Agents for more information.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

  Sonoran Sea E1001
3 Bedroom Top Floor
$399,900

 
BEST VIEWS ON SANDY BEACH!

POSSIBLE TERMS AVAILABLE 

!!! PRICE REDUCED FOR QUICK SALE !!!

  This condo truly has the best views on Sandy Beach. Look all the way down the beach in both directions from your terrace. Three bedrooms and fully furnished turn-key ready to go for you so you can't go wrong. Great rental or just keep it all for yourself. Come and take a look. You won't be disappointed.

Call Today: 602-476-7511

Sonoran Sky 1010
4 BR Premium End Unit
$829,900

SPECTACULAR VIEWS!   

WRAP-AROUND TERRACE!

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.

Call Today: 602-476-7511 


Sonoran Spa W310  

3BR West End Unit
$299,000

GREAT NEW PRICE!   BEAUTIFUL CONDO!

3 BEDROOM WITH A 2 BEDROOM PRICE! 

This spacious 3 bedroom end unit condo at the Sonoran Spa is a great buy. Lots of room and fantastic beachfront views. Very nicely furnished and ready to move right in. Rental income is an option or keep it all for yourself.  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 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.


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Jim Ringquist
Sonoran Sales Group