Beachfront Property in Mexico goes on Auction Block

As previously reported here, five commercial land tracts in Puerto Penasco, ranging from 0.8± to 102± acres, and two commercial buildings will be offered at a live auction, a joint project for United Country Real Estate and Colliers International.

Conducted by Mike Fisher, auctioneer and chief executive officer of United Country – The Redfield Group, the auction will take place at the Marriott Phoenix Airport (1001 N. 44th Street, Phoenix, Ariz. 85008). Registration will open at 1 p.m., and the auction will begin at 2 p.m. The unimproved properties may be seen anytime, and auction representatives will be on-site from May 28 to June 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“This auction is the chance of a lifetime. Buyers have the rare opportunity to own beautiful beachfront property – all of which has significant income potential – at auction prices. Buying these properties at auction ensures fair market value will be established, allowing qualified buyers to purchase top-notch properties on the Sea of Cortez, in one Mexico’s fastest growing tourist areas, which sees millions of American tourists each year,” said Fisher. “These properties are located just an hour from the U.S. border and less than four hours from Phoenix and Tucson. You couldn’t ask for a better location for your development project.”

Detailed information about each property for sale, as well as details about the auction, can be found online at www.redfieldgroup.com or by calling 866-673-9270.

Property Information
Located on the beach of Puerto Penasco, the first property for sale was originally designated for a large resort. The 34± acre site has 670± feet of Sea of Cortez beachfront and 869± feet of Morua Estuary shoreline, and it has been authorized for 1,086 condos and permitted and approved for 318 condos.

Also for sale is a development site in the popular Sandy Beach area, which has seen considerable tourist development in the past 7 years. Ideal for condominium or commercial development with beach access, the tract is 8.11± acres and located on Boulevard Costero, the main channel of traffic flow into the Sandy Beach area.

Buyers will also have the opportunity to purchase Suenos Del Mar, a 102± acre tract with 100 ft. of beachfront, ideal for a comprehensive, master-planned community. In addition, the property is located in the Tourist Zone on Fremont Boulevard, the main east/west thoroughfare, which allows developers to use the property for a variety of projects: residential homes, condominium projects, hotels, commercial centers and more.

The fourth property to be auctioned is a 29± acre tract located at a key intersection near the eastern city limits of Puerto Penasco. With convenient access to beach and town amenities, the interior portion of this property is an attractive site for residential development. However, the property also offers frontage to Fremont Boulevard, the main east/west corridor of Puerto Penasco, making it ideal for commercial and retail development.

With access by land or sea, the final undeveloped commercial property for sale is a rectangular shaped lot of approximately 0.8± acres, located at the northwest corner of the Puerto Penasco harbor. Ideal for commercial, hotel or condominium development, this location will benefit greatly from the ongoing marina redevelopment program. The city’s plans to revamp the harbor area have encouraged new development around the marina area, including current construction
of a national chain hotel and a modern commercial/retail development.

In addition to the commercial sites, this auction will also feature two commercial buildings, both located in the Tourist Zone. The Placita Melanie (Melanie Plaza) contains 22 units ranging from 426 to 2,299 square feet. The building totals 19,345 square feet and is situated on a 26, 909± square-foot lot with 90 parking spaces. Located on Fremont Boulevard, this building is perfect for commercial, medical and retail tenants. The units also may be resold as commercial condominiums. The Majestic Business Park is a modern 22,800-square-foot building featuring 14 warehouse/office units. Each unit contains private offices with private bathrooms, and square footages begin at 1200 square feet per unit.

About Colliers International
Colliers International is a global affiliation of independently owned commercial real estate firms. The organization's 11,000 employees span the world in 293 offices in 61 countries. On a worldwide basis, Colliers manages 868 million square feet and has revenue of $US 2.0 billion.

About United Country
United Country Real Estate is the largest fully integrated franchise network of real estate and auction professionals in the nation. Based in Kansas City, Mo., the company has been an innovator in real estate marketing since 1925. United Country supports nearly 675 offices across the U.S. and in Costa Rica with a unique, comprehensive marketing program that includes one of the largest portfolios of property marketing web sites (more than 750 separate sites), seven proprietary real estate catalogs with a cumulative distribution of 1.5 million, an extensive, current buyer database and national advertising of properties to more than 90 million potential buyer prospects a week. United Country has been recognized as a Top 25 Franchise by the Wall Street Journal and among Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500®.

Source: United Country Real Estate

Contact Information:
United Country Real Estate
2820 NW Barry Road
Kansas City, MO 64154

Contact Person:
Kyla Barcus
Public Relations Manager
Phone: 800-444-5044


Web: www.unitedcountry.com

The Worst Beer in Mexico?

-by El Gitano Peñasco, "The Peñasco Gypsy"

In September of 1988 at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula lay a modest, sleepy little Mexican borough that truly was at that time the proverbial “quaint little fishing village”.

Back in those days when the town ran low on the standard tourist survival supplies such as, oh, say beer or cigarettes (okay and some food too…) often the only choice was “whatever is on the shelf, grab it, that’s it!”

I learned that lesson near the end of my first full day in Cabo San Lucas when, as Hora Feliz approached, a friend and I jumped in the pickup and drove about 6 km to town from our casa in Cabo Bello so we could load up on the essentials at the local depository for that evening’s festivities.

I don’t know what it is about Corona that doesn’t agree with my system but after that night of consuming mass quantities of the brew (along with hours of merry making) I have not touched one Corona for the past 21 years. And the only point to this is that as much as I dislike the beer I think the company has some outstanding TV commercials.

What I find clever about their ads is the way they combine the notion of enjoying a ‘cold-one’ (or two) on an isolated beach in Mexico, and I can only assume that since they’ve run with that format for more than a decade their ad execs and bean counters must have evidence that promoting their beer simultaneously with Mexico WORKS!

Millions and millions of ‘turistas’ love Mexico and travel here repeatedly, spending billions of dollars every year. So to my way of thinking, Penasco business and Gov leaders that want to promote the area need to go with what works and market Penasco not as ‘Rocky Point’ or ‘Arizona’s Beach’ but instead present the area for its real charm and attraction -- that it IS MEXICO!

Viva México!

elgitanopenasco@gmail.com

Behold the Humble Jicama

Have you made the acquaintance of the humble jicama root yet? No? Well, don't be put off by its homely appearance. You know what they say about not judging a book by its cover.

Jicama (pronounced HEE-kamah), originated south of the border. Also known as yam bean, Mexican potato or Mexican turnip, it's a cousin of the sweet potato and it can be found in the produce department in most supermarkets. True, it's not much to look at but under its unprepossessing brown exterior lies a real treasure of sweet crispiness that lends itself to endless ways of preparation.

With hot summer weather on the way, I'm concentrating on uncooked dishes, as it is a perfect food to enjoy either on its own or as an ingredient in salads. My personal favorite way to eat it as a snack, sliced or diced then sprinkled with lime juice and chili powder, as shown in the picture above. You will often find it sold this way at street stands all over Latin America.

Another goodie, this one for the microwave: Peel and cut one pound of jicama into cubes or julienne strips. Place in 2-quart covered casserole with 1/4 cup water; microwave on high for 8-9 minutes. Stir once. Serve with honey, butter, salt and pepper, sweet and sour sauce, sour cream or yogurt dressing. Note that a one pound jicama yields about three cups chopped or shredded flesh.

There are plenty of salad recipes available, too, and you can take any of those and riff off it to invent your own.

Here are a few of my favorite salads. Are they authentically Mexican? Well, who cares? The jicama and many of the ingredients are Mexican, and when it's hot outside that's good enough for me.

Beach Buzz: Weather, Coyote Ugly, Grupo Mayan and...

-by La Huerita

There's some good buzz from the beach this week, and some not-so-good buzz...

First buzz: I've added a new Weather page to the blog, so now instead of just looking for a little gadget on the sidebar that doesn't tell you much you can get several days worth of forecasts, plus the current temperature. For good measure, I also added a Sun/Moon Sticker that gives moonrise, moonset, moon phase, sunrise and sunset information as well as current temperature, conditions, and time. (From Weather Underground.) Because you can never know too much about that stuff! And finally, thanks to a tip from an interested reader, there is a link to an edited tide calendar that shows a weekly Graphic Plot on the tide. Among other things, this is very handy for checking on the mosquito problem times: 5 days after high tide watch out... ;-)

Just click on the "Weather" link in the navigation bar near the top of the page, or bookmark it directly by going to http://rptides.blogspot.com/...html

How's the weather where YOU are today?

Second buzz: Is there any truth to the rumor that Shay's Coyote Ugly, just off the strip in the Mirador, has become another victim of the terrible economy in Rocky Point? I'm told the "bar and dance saloon" served its last drink on Friday, May 15. Remember Marty, who used to have the famed Margaritavilla bar and restaurant? Well, Coyote Ugly was run by his son and daughter-in-law. Is Marty still trying to get Margaritavilla back? Or has he given up on that? Anyone have reliable information?

Third buzz: The Mayan Group, which has that huge development south of town that they're now calling La Jolla de Cortez (you, know, the Mayan Palace, Grand Mayan and all those other Mayan-named projects down at the La Pinta Estuary), is working to bring tourists to Mexico. And what's good for Mexico is good for Puerto Penasco. The company has recently released their latest ad campaign wherein they invite everyone to "enjoy the exclusivity, luxury, and beauty of Mayan Resorts. This breathtaking photography is a quick glimpse into the true beauty of our destinations." You can view the two ad videos by clicking on these links (Patience is a virtue- it took a while for the videos to load on my laptop):
Watch Video 1
Watch Video 2

OR, you can download them to your computer as QuickTime movies by clicking on the links below:
Download Video 1
Download Video 2

Meanwhile, I hear that progress is being made (finally!) on the building of Mayan Group's 14-story Grand Mayan, a timeshare condo project rising just past the end of the Miramar property in between Miramar and the main Mayan buildings. That should make the timeshare owners happy; they've been waiting for it for at least a couple of years...

Buzz Four: Memorial Day Weekend was busy busy busy, a real blessing for the businesses in RP that have been so hard hit lately, thanks to the triple whammy of the US economy tanking, bad PR about the drug-related mayhem in some border towns and the swine flu. The Mirador was packed and so were Old Port and Sandy Beach. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the worst may be over. And my toes, too, because you can never have too much crossing of digits.

And that's all the Beach Buzz for today!

About Beach Buzz: Not necessarily the news, this is a place for information, opinion, speculation, gossip, tips and other good stuff about Rocky Point, and Mexico in general. If you have something you'd like to share, I'd like to hear from you!

Contact me at lahuerita2@gmail.com

Alleged Robbers Nabbed in Puerto Penasco

Police in Puerto Penasco caught two suspected robbers on Sunday afternoon, May 24, following a shootout that left both suspects seriously wounded.

The suspects, identified as Glen Tamayo and Alfredo Romero Haro Chairez, allegedly surprised a pair of brothers traveling on the new Coastal Highway between El Golfo de Santa Clara and Puerto Penasco, forcing them to stop and robbing them of US$4,500 in cash.

The suspects then fled south toward Puerto Penasco in a GMC Yukon SUV. The brothers, whose names have not been released, returned to Santa Clara, where they filed a report with the police. The police promptly notified authorities in Puerto Penasco.

The Puerto Penasco police set up a roadblock on the outskirts of town moments before the alleged robbers arrived. The suspects fired at the police and made a run for it, with the police in hot pursuit. The chase ended when the suspects crashed their vehicle into the wall of a clinic. Still trying to avoid arrest, they again opened fire on the police, who fired back, wounding both Tamayo and Chairez.

The two accused robbers were transferred to a hospital in Hermosillo, where they are reported to be in serious condition.

Myths & Tips: Keeping Your Stomach Happy in México

-by La Huerita

In México the word "salchicha" (sometimes spelled "salchica") on a restaurant menu is usually translated into English as "sausage". I well remember the first time I ordered it for breakfast, fully expecting to get a nice sausage patty or a couple of links with my eggs. Imagine my surprise when my breakfast arrived and instead of American-type sausages full of fat, sage and succulence, a couple of pale wieners stared wanly back at me from my plate, sliced down the middle and fried.

I know what my face looked like at that moment, because in ensuing years I took a certain vicious pleasure in not warning newbie American diners in México about it just so I could watch their faces when their breakfasts arrived. It was all part of allowing others the fun of discovery for themselves, doncha know. (That's my story and I'm sticking to it.)

In México (and throughout Latin America) "salchichas" means "wieners", period; they are as ubiquitous as Spam is in Hawaii. You will even find them chopped up in spaghetti sauce (Mmmm, que sabroso...). And all that is just by way of introducing you to the notion that not all food-related issues in México are also health related.

Real Méxican food is often quite different from the dishes served in most Méxican/Tex-Mex restaurants in other countries, so if you think you've had "Méxican" food in the USA or Canada, you might be surprised to discover that you haven't. If you have a taste for adventure you’ll be well rewarded in México; if not, stick to a few simple and traditional dishes that are almost always very good (and not necessarily spicy).

Tacos come to mind, of course, but they won't be anything like what you get at the Taco Bell kind of places. Also likely to be familiar are guacamole, enchiladas, tamales, chile rellenos, meatballs (albondigas) and of course rice and beans. You can branch out from there.

As for the health part of the equation, México offers some magnificently rich and/or spicy dishes, but it's a good idea to take it easy for the first few days until your stomach has grown accustomed to its new environment. Upset stomachs and "turista" are commonly associated with unpurified water used in ice and to wash salads and fruit, but it can also be caused by the stress of traveling, foods that are new to you, too much too soon, or simply bacteria different to those at home. (See OMG Don't Drink the Water!)

Some good advice (that's hard to follow): Start off slow, then begin trying new things a bit at a time-- and don't try to eat and drink everything in sight on your first day. Once your system has settled down, though, do try some of the regional specialties. It’s all part of experiencing a new country, and for many people the food is one of the main attractions of their vacation. In Puerto Penasco some regional foods might include Sonoran-style Grilled Chicken (Pollo Asado al Carbon), Cheese Soup (Caldo de Queso), or freshly made Chorizo.

And do not pass up the gelatinas just because you think it's only Jello. I assure you it is NOT. Handmade, sometimes too beautiful to eat, you will find flavors and colors that do not exist within the world of Jello boxes. A perfect light end to any meal, especially during the hot summmer months.

TIPS for eating out in Mexico:
The flora and fauna living in your stomach and intestines are not used to the water and food in Mexico. It can take a while to acclimate. Also, the ingredients and methods of cooking may be very different from what you are used to. Not inferior, just different. Your stomach will let you know when you've gone too far.

Restaurants: In most restaurants catering to tourists, you are usually safe to eat whatever you want. The last thing they want is for a customer to get sick, so they use fresh food and cook/wash fruits and vegetables with purified water. A general rule of thumb: if it is freshly cooked it's safe to eat. Until you are acclimated, avoid uncooked vegetables like salads. The issue of water and ice has already been covered here.

Street Vendors: Most taco stands are perfectly safe, but if you are not yet acclimated be careful about ordering food from them. Just because you see a bunch of gringos eating in front of one doesn't necessarily mean anything. They might live in the area or be frequent visitors whose systems are used to the food and any microbes that your system isn't used to yet. So by all means explore the possibilities of the often wonderful food offered at street-side stands, but use some common sense. Does it look clean? Is the food prepared in front of you (fresh)? Does the person preparing it wash his/her hands?

Oh-oh, Trouble! It is estimated that 40% of foreign traveler vacations in Mexico are disrupted by "turista", aka "Montezuma's Revenge", which is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Most cases are mild and resolve in a few days with no treatment. Severe or extended cases, however, may require medical intervention. IF in spite of your precautions you are unfortunate enough to suffer intestinal distress, the following website gives very good information about the subject of "Montezuma's Revenge", along with advice on what to
do about it:  EveryDayHealth.com

Oh, one more thing about those wieners: They're usually of the Vienna type, pale in color and not particularly rich in flavor. In fact, they may be the only food served in México that isn't rich in flavor. By far the most popular brand is called FUD (pronounced 'food'). Unless you love those weenies, go with chorizo (which is REAL Méxican sausage) or machaca for breakfast instead. You can thank me later.

Rocio del Mar Dive Boat Ready to Go in Puerto Penasco

In February 2009 I wrote about a new, liveaboard dive boat being readied for duty in Puerto Penasco. The 110-ft Rocio Del Mar, conceived and built by husband and wife team Dora and Francisco (Lolo) Sandoval, has now passed its final certification and is ready to take passengers on an exploration of the Sea of Cortez.

The exploratory dive voyage of the Rocio Del Mar is targeted for May 30th - June 6th, 2009. The main dive focus is the midriff islands off Kino Bay between San Carlos and Puerto Penasco, though custom itineraries can be arranged.

Regular departures for the week-long adventures will take place on Saturdays around 4:00PM, arriving in the Kino Bay area early Sunday morning. Guests will disembark back in Puerto Penasco the following Saturday morning after breakfast. You can click here to view schedules and prices.

The following YouTube video will give you an idea of what you can expect to experience when diving in what Jacques Cousteau famously called "The world's aquarium".



The Rocio can accommodate 22 overnight guests in ten staterooms, 8 on the lower deck and 2 on the second deck. All staterooms have private bathrooms with hot shower stalls, western style toilets, lavatories, and above height windows. Each cabin is carpeted and air conditioned. There are room length windows with privacy curtains and convenient gear and clothes storage drawers beneath the beds.

Smoking is allowed only on the top sun deck.

All meals and snacks are included in the price. American style breakfast consists of pancakes, waffles, muffins, toast, egg dishes, fresh fruit, juices, hot chocolate, coffee or tea - served to fuel your active morning. Lunch is typically sandwiches, burgers, fish tacos, vegetable, fruit, and pasta salads. The promenade deck bar opens at 5PM, serving frosty fruit concoctions or coffee and chocolate body warmers. Domestic beer, wine and tequilas are stocked, but note that alcoholic beverages are extra charge and drinking and diving is a no-no. At 7PM, dinner starts with fresh vegetable salads and homemade soups. Local fresh seafood dishes are chef’s specialty, paired with vegetable and pasta fusions of pork, chicken, or tofu. Desserts are made fresh daily.

The Rocio del Mar will be available for private functions when not scheduled for a scuba excursion and can easily accommodate fairly large groups. The crew can also prepare for special cuisine and dietary requests; special diving programs geared for mixed gas/tech or shark cage equipment; biological and oceanographic research; photographic safaris; whale shark and great whale encounters and more.

For more information visit http://rociodelmarliveaboard.com/ or email info@rociodelmarliveaboard.com

It's the Law, Gringo!

-by El Gitano Peñasco, "The Peñasco Gypsy"

I'd bet ya un millón de pesos most of us would be hard pressed to find foreigners roaming the streets of Penasco who are familiar with or ponder the statutes that govern the daily lives of Mexico’s citizens (and visitors, too).

Take for example the fact that (apparently) under Title 1, Chapter IV, Article 38, section IV of the "Constitution Of Mexico" Mexican citizens could lose their right to vote because: "The rights or prerogatives of citizens are suspended" for (among other 'issues') "habitual drunkenness".

Oh-oh, there goes my daily Hora Feliz festivities! But in all honesty, over the years I’ve never heard one tale involving authorities running around willy-nilly enforcing that “habitual drunkenness” section…

On the other hand there appears to be no shortage of foreigners who seem almost anxious, if not hell bent, on sharing their legal perspectives with other foreigners covering topics ranging from having a tourist card (FMT) on one’s person at all times to renting or purchasing a condo/home, opening a bank account and so on. You name it, everyone has an opinion on what the law is, and you know what they say about opinions, LOL.

Yes, the law is complex and not to be toyed with by us mere mortals, but I thought we could have some fun right here at The Tides and from time to time discuss various legal issues, topics (and maybe some personal experiences) that affect our lives regardless if we are weekend warriors in town for some ‘fun-and-sun’ or part-time/full-time residents.

So if anyone has a topic they’d like to discuss or a question that requires some research, etc. then blog away (or send me your e-mail comments) and let’s see if we can navigate the multifaceted legal system of Mexico.

And since I’m more than willing to ‘take-the-hit’ for the gang I better head over right now to one of my favorite watering-holes and do some ‘research’, ah, I mean eavesdrop, and see what ‘subject(s)’ are being tossed about today.

Now, on the off-chance I’m not heard from again would someone kindly check the local Penasco Hoosegow (Cárcel) because there is always the possibility that I was just having too much fun during ‘bevy-time’ and may need to be bailed out because after all, there are those pesky little ‘rules’ we all have to live by!

Viva México!


elgitanopenasco@gmail.com

Mexican Wedding Dessert

With hot summer days on the way it's time for a delicious dessert that's served cold and doesn't require too much heating of the oven. This Mexican Wedding Dessert, which might remind you of a cheesecake with its crunchy base and rich ingredients, fits the bill in more ways than one.

Way too good to limit its use only to weddings, it has four layers that present contrasting flavors and intriguing textures. But though it looks elaborate it is very easy to make and the ingredients are easily available. It is the perfect ending to a summer dinner, and I know of no one who doesn't like it. NOTE: Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it; it will be easier to mix that way.

Sorry, no picture. It didn't last long enough for me to get the camera out. LOL

MEXICAN WEDDING DESSERT:

Video: Jazz by the Sea Festival

On October 3, 2009 Rocky Point will enjoy its 3rd annual Jazz by the Sea Festival. Besides the great music there will be other events all over town. To whet your appetite while you wait for the event (and the best weather of the year!), here is a short clip of last year's festival. For more information about this year's event: from Mexico call 01800-552-2820; from the USA call 602-288-6710.




Video courtesy of Rocky Point TV

The Greening of Puerto Penasco

As part of the ambitious federal reforestation project called ProArbol, the Sonoran Government recently sent thousands of trees into the various municipalities of the state. Puerto Penasco was the recipient of several thousand of those trees, which were trucked into the community around the middle of May, 2009. Alberto Carlos Cañez Tiznado, Director of Ecology for the area, says the trees will mostly be planted in parks, gardens, schoolyards and other public areas to beautify the city, but that is not all.

In addition, trees will be planted in the new colonias around town to help green them up, provide cooling shade and improve the appearance of the neighborhoods. Cañez-Tiznado has also stated that trees not used for those specific purposes will be given to any citizen of Puerto Penasco who asks for one.

The trees to be planted are palo verde, palo fierro (ironwood) and mesquite, which are native to this part of the region and do not need great amounts water to thrive, according to the Director of Ecology.

Palo Fierro (Olneya tesota): The Palo Fierro, also known as the Desert Ironwood tree, grows naturally only in the Sonoran Desert, can reach a height of 45 feet and is known to live as long as 1,500 years. An evergreen, it is often used in landscape plantings as a shade tree. The temperature beneath an established tree can be as much as 15 degrees cooler that the surrounding air temperature. From May to June it bears clusters of pea-like flowers ranging from lavendar and pink to white, which grow in arches at the end of branches. Following the flowers come brown, bean-like seedpods about 2 inches long, which mature in early summer. Each seedpod has 1 to 4 brown beans in it. During dry seasons, ironwoods will drop many of their leaves to conserve water but they do not drop all of their leaves. For more information, visit http://www.desertmuseum.org/programs/ifnm_ironwoodtree.php
Photo, seen above, courtesy http://redescolar.ilce.edu.mx/

Palo verde(Cercidium floridum): Also native to the Sonoran Desert, the Palo Verde is the state tree of Arizona. It can reach a height of 32 feet and has a deep root system which allows it to tap into the ground water and survive periods of extended drought. Palo Verde means ‘green stick’ in Spanish, a name which refers to the green stems and bark of the tree. These trees are drought deciduous, shedding their leaves during extended dry spells. When no leaves are present the plant relies on its green stems and branches to carry on the essential energy-producing process of photosynthesis. From March through May Palo Verde are covered with an abundance of small yellow flowers, very attractive to honey bees. The flowering is followed in about a month by seed pods, the fruits of which are very attractive to a variety of birds and small mammals. The Palo Verde provides light shade. For more information and pictures, see http://www.livingdesert.org/plants/palo_verde.asp

Mesquite tree: The most common shrub/small tree in the Sonoran Desert, the Mesquite is deciduous and shares the characteristic bean pods of the prior two trees. These pods have long been used by humans, wildlife and livestock as a food source. It is estimated that over 75% of a Coyote's diet in late summer is mesquite beans. Mesquite trees are also found in the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico. These trees generally reach a height of 20 to 30 feet, although in most of their range they are shrub size. Its taproot has been known to reach as deep as 190 feet. Mesquite grows quickly and furnishes shade and wildlife habitat where other trees will not grow. An all-around plant, it is famous for its hard, fragrant wood when used as firewood, but its uses don't stop there. Its wood is also used for furniture and decorative woodworking and woodturning. Native Americans relied on the mesquite pod as a dietary staple from which they made tea, syrup and a ground meal called pinole. They also used used the bark for basketry, fabrics and medicine. A favorite of bees and other insects, mesquite flowers produce a fragrant honey. For more information see http://www.desertusa.com/jan97/du-smesquite.html

ABOUT PROARBOL:
In January 2007 the federal government launched an ambitious program called ProArbol amid much fanfare. More than just a reforestation program, ProArbol was rolled out to include conservation and employment issues as well as to overcome decades of neglect and mismanagement of the nation's forests. Two years into the program, results are mixed and there is controversy surrounding it, but there is no doubt that millions of new trees and other plants have been planted. For a thorough look at how things stand today, visit David Agren's blog Tales from San Lazaro.

The Crisis Came. Mexico Didn’t Fail. Surprised?

The New York Times, 5/9/2009

MEXICO CITY — Just for argument’s sake, let’s compare Mexico’s management of the swine flu epidemic that broke out here last month with China’s handling of SARS in 2002. The Chinese initially tried to deny there was an outbreak, were slow to combat its spread and resisted cooperation with foreign investigators. By the time SARS was brought under control, more than 700 people had died.

Mexico’s conduct has been different. The authorities may have been slow to identify the threat, but once they did, they quickly notified international health agencies, acted efficiently to prevent the epidemic from mushrooming, and began working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States. As of Friday, the death toll was 45.

Read the rest of this excellent article in the New York Times. Contrary to what most of the mainstream media in the USA would have you believe, Mexico has done a good job with the swine flu epidemic, and yes, I repeat YES, Puerto Penasco is a safe place to visit and live!

Where's the Paradise?

-by El Gitano Peñasco, "The Peñasco Gypsy"

As we all know Spring Break is a little cash cow that once a year benefits mostly a select group of local Puerto Penasco businesses owners and the government coffers.

But I wonder how much better off RP would be if business leaders and community officials developed a comprehensive marketing strategy and concentrated their efforts targeting the approximately 70 million people living throughout the greater Southwestern USA?

I’ve often read what I believe to be bogus and self-serving ‘reports’, press releases, news articles, columns, etc. (many of them on some Penasco-specific websites) claiming things like ‘why, last year Puerto Penasco had 3 million visitors (or tourists)…’

Of course I have no ‘official’ numbers but common sense tells me that if half that number (1.5 Million) were correct then on any given day of the year-- all 365 of ‘em-- there would be about 4,110 fresh new smiling faces (‘visitors/tourists’) roaming the streets, shopping, dining, playing golf, frolicking on the beaches…

The fact of the matter is that for the majority of those 365 days a year in Penasco, mostly Sunday night through Friday afternoon, you could shoot a cannon down Calle 13 and it would be a real challenge to hit a ‘visitor’ (tourist) from elsewhere in Mexico or the USA.

Naturally there are those who oppose growth and want Penasco (the way it was or is now) all to themselves, but if Rocky Point is going to compete with all the other Mexican ‘flavors’ that are on the menu for sun seekers to choose from then ‘someone’ needs to lead the way and start looking at the ‘big-picture’!

Just imagine how the entire community (jobs, taxes, services, etc.) would benefit if those phantom 3 Million ‘visitors’ (tourists) really did travel to RP, stayed a (e.g.) week and spent (e.g.) $1,000 each…

With that kind of tourist and money flowing, this “once quaint little fishing village” could actually become a ‘player’ in the multi-billion dollar tourism industry in Mexico and our beloved Penasco could truly become a highly sought after Paraíso.

Viva México!

elgitanopenasco@gmail.com

Chile Colorado con Carne

If you've got a couple pounds of roast handy but you're tired of pot roast with potatoes and carrots, here's a delicious way to use it that will make your family happy. This is a very rich dish with deep flavors, and it can be as spicy or mild as you prefer, depending on the type and number of chiles you add.

Chile Colorado con Carne (usually just called "Chile Colorado" on restaurant menus) is a traditional Mexican dish, not to be confused with the Tex-Mex dish we know as "chili con carne". Not that chili is bad, but it is very different from Chile Colorado. (Note the difference in spelling: Chili versus Chile.) "Chile Colorado" simply translated means "Red Chile", and it is the chiles that give the sauce its deep red color and bite.

I've seen many recipes for this dish that use pork, but this is properly a BEEF dish. A similar dish using pork, which takes a good couple of days to make properly, is called Carne Adovada. A wonderful comfort food, I'll cover it at another time. For now, I give you the amazing, the delicious, the rich, meaty, utterly delectable--

CHILE COLORADO CON CARNE:

Mexico Tourism Takes Big Hit From Swine Flu Scare

Puerto Penasco is not alone in suffering a severe drop in tourism since the outbreak of the A(H1N1) virus, also called Swine Flu. A new report from STR Global shows that hotel occupancy in Mexico dropped more than 50% at the end of April and beginning of May, a period that coincided with the flu outbreak. Other reports confirm that data, indicating the flu has had a deep impact on Mexico's hotel and other tourism-related industries.

Already struggling due to heavy media coverage of gang- and drug-related violence and the downturn in the global economy, the effect of the swine flu on the hotel industry has been severe. The AFP reports that since the outbreak of swine flu 25 hotels in the Cancun area have closed their doors, at least temporarily, and that the tourism drop may cost Mexico around $2.3 billion in lost income, about 0.3 percent of gross domestic product.

In a bid to counter swine flu's blow to the tourism industry, hotels on Mexico's Caribbean coast are offering free vacations for three years to any tourist catching swine flu while on holiday there. So far over 5,000 hotel rooms are involved in the promotion which is hoped to bring a little life back to Mexico's beach resorts.

The hotel owners also intend to send letters to the US government, to be published in US newspapers, calling for a lifting of an alert against non-essential travel Mexico due to the flu epidemic.

Mexico's Health Minister Jose Angel Cordova has said that Mexican beach resorts, including Cozumel and Puerto Vallarta, have not reported any cases of the virus. Puerto Penasco has also reported no cases of the flu, as reported here on May 9, and should be considered safe for those vacationers who would like to visit over the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend.

175 Acres of Puerto Penasco Land to be Auctioned Off on June 4, 2009

A developers' liquidation auction in Rocky Point, MX will be held June 4, 2009, involving a total of 175 acres of land. Five commercial land tracts ranging from .8+ to 102+ acres are being offered, some with ocean frontage, and some have entitlements in place and are ready to build. Two commercial buildings will also be offered.

The Redfield Group, of Gadsden, Alabama, will oversee the auction, which will be held at the Marriott Phoenix Airport, 1101 North 44th Street, Phoenix, Arizona, 85008.

According to USLots.com, the properties to be auctioned off include the following:

1. Villa Cortez Beachfront Development Site
The unspoiled, pristine beach of Puerto Penasco, Mexico provides the serene backdrop for Villa Cortez, a stunning and alluring resort development originally designed to perfect the art of getting away from it all. The Villa Cortez site is 34 acres with 670 feet of beachfront that has already been authorized for up to 1086 condos and permitted and approved for 318 condos. This magnificent 34 acre site is cradled between the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez and the Morua Estuary, an area well known for its extraordinary tranquility and diverse wildlife. Yet, it will be only a short 15 minute drive from the new airport. The site boasts 869 feet of shoreline on this spectacular estuary.

Development plans are available and the entitlements could be is transferable. For more information and Villa Cortez promotional materials and/or entitlement documents, contact United Country/The Redfield Group at 1-866-673-9270.

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Fremont Boulevard, go east on Fremont Boulevard for approximately 8 miles and turn right. Go 4 miles and you will come to a Y. Stay right and go another 8ቦ mile to the intersection. Turn right and stay right at the next Y, going 2.7 miles to the Bella Vita entrance. Go through the entrance and continue 4ቦ mile to the property. The road goes through the Villa Cortez property.

2. Sandy Beach Development Site
Located in the popular Sandy Beach area of Puerto Penasco, this 8.11 acre tract is ideal for condominium and/or commercial development with public beach access. The Sandy Beach area is a thriving beach district which has exploded with numerous condominium developments over the past 7 years bringing tourists and investors alike to this once hidden secret. This parcel is located directly on Blvd. Costero, which is the main channel of traffic flow into the Sandy Beach vicinity and is bounded on two sides by high-rise condos. This site is ideal for condominium, hotel, retail, commercial and mixed use.

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Samuel Ocana Boulevard, (first traffic light upon entering Puerto Penasco from the north) go west onto Samuel Ocana Boulevard. Continue on this road across the railroad tracks to a traffic circle marked by a Circle K Store. The road will curve and force traffic to the left. Proceed on past the condos, and immediately past the Casa Blanca Golf Villas. The property is the large open sandy parcel on the left.

3. Suenos Del Mar Development Site
102.237 Acres (413739.75 M2) with beach frontage/access in the Tourist Zone. As Penasco's growth in residential and tourism projects continues to the southeast, this assemblage of parcels is ideal for a comprehensive, master planned community. This site will provide a developer with many opportunities to construct a variety of options or divide/sell for others to develop.

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Fremont Boulevard, go east on Fremont Boulevard for 0.6 mile to the property on the right.

4. Freemont/Los Conchas Development Site
29.942 Acres (121,100 M2) This is a very desirable parcel of land located at the areas vital intersection of the main east /west corridor (Fremont Blvd) and the road to Las Conchas Resorts at the eastern city limits of Puerto Penasco , Sonora, Mexico. This ideal commercial location provides excellent frontage to Blvd. Fremont. This main artery brings the majority of traffic flow for those traveling into Puerto Penasco from Hermosillo, Caborca and more locally, The Mayan Palace Timeshare Resort as well as the beach communities of Playa Encanto and Playa La Jolla. The interior portion of this large parcel has been deemed as an attractive site for residential development with its convenient access to beach and town amenities and services and the prized frontage portion of the parcel is enviable for commercial and retail development, including restaurants, grocery, shopping and more.

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Fremont Boulevard, go east on Fremont Boulevard for approximately 1.2 miles to the intersection of Las Conchas and Fremont Blvd. The property is in the Y to the south east of the intersection.

5. Marina Waterfront Development Site
Located at the Northwest corner of the Puerto Penasco Harbor, this lot has excellent access by land and sea. The rectangular shaped lot of approximately .8 acres in size is ideal for commercial, hotel or condominium development. This location will benefit greatly from the ongoing marina redevelopment program and Penasco's significance in the nation's nautical ladder. The city's plans to revamp the harbor area have encouraged new development around the marina area, including current construction of a national chain hotel and a modern comercial/retail development. Easy access to this parcel allows for a variety of options for development.

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and 13th Street (Calle 13), go west on 13th Street. Cross the railroad tracks and continue until reaching an intersection as the street starts up an incline. It is an unmarked road identified by a Sushi restaurant just before this intersection, and a Kino Convenience Store, just after this intersection. Turn left at this intersection onto a dirt road and go 3 blocks to the lot, which is marked by bright yellow building on the corner.

6. Placita Melanie (Melanie Plaza)
This beautifully designed building contains 22 units ranging from 426 to 2,299 square feet. The building totals 19,345 square feet and is situated on a 2,500 M2 (8,221 square foot) lot with 90 parking spaces. Melanie Plaza is located on Fremont Boulevard, the citys main east/west thoroughfare and it is situated in the tourist zone. It is perfect for commercial, medical and retail tenants. These units may also be re-sold as commercial condominiums.

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Fremont Boulevard, go east on Fremont Boulevard for 0.8 mile to the property on the right.

7. Majestic Business Park
Strategically located in the Tourist Zone, this modern 22,800 square foot building features 14 Warehouse/Office Units. Each unit contains private offices with private bathrooms, and square footage beginning at 1200 SF per unit. The lot totals 48,060.8 square feet (4, 465 M2).

Directions: From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Fremont Boulevard, go east on Fremont Boulevard for 0.9 mile, turn right on an un-named street and go to the first drive on the on the right. The entrance is gated.

AUCTION INFORMATION For more information, call (866) 673-9270 or
(256) 413-0555.

PROPERTY INSPECTION The property is available for viewing any time. Auction representatives will be on site at Melanie Plaza, Unit 107 from May 28 to June 4 from 10 00 a.m. until 5 00 p.m. daily (Arizona Time).

AUCTION SHOWING SITE Placita Melanie (Melanie Plaza), Suite 107.
Directions From the intersection of Benito Juarez and Fremont Boulevard, go east on Fremont Boulevard for 0.8 mile to Placita Melanie on the right.

AUCTION LOCATION The auction will be held at the Marriott Phoenix Airport, 1101 North 44th Street, Phoenix, Arizona, 85008, phone 800-228-9290.

AUCTION REGISTRATION To bid at the auction, you must first register and receive a bid number. A bid deposit of $25,000 per tract will be required at registration and will be refunded at the close of the auction, or applied to the earnest money deposit, as appropriate. The bid deposit may be in the form of a certified check made payable to the bidder, or a personal or company check with a bank letter of guarantee.

TERMS A ten percent (10 ) down payment will be due immediately upon being declared the Buyer of the real estate. The certified fund amount of $25,000 will be credited toward the payment. The balance of the purchase amount will be due at closing within 30 days.

AUCTION FEE A buyers premium of 10 will be added to the successful high bid price to arrive at the total contract price paid by the purchaser.

BROKER PARTICIPATION The Redfield Group encourages buyer broker participation and will pay a fee to the purchaser's realtor/broker-subject to certain guidelines. Call 866-673-9270.

Beach Buzz: Real Estate News Bits From Puerto Penasco

-by La Huerita

Some buzz from the beach about resort developments in Rocky Point, Mexico.

First up on the good news front, an RPTides reader wants me to remind everyone that Las Palmas Resort has had a telephone and internet system installed for each of the condos and casas at the resort for over a year now, so if you are renting a house or condo the answer is Yes: You can bring your laptop.

Located on Sandy Beach northwest of town, Las Palmas was completed in the summer of 2005. The resort consists of twenty 3- and 4-bedroom homes stretched across the front of the beach. Behind the homes are four towers of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom condos.

At the other end of the beachosphere, way down at Playa Encanto, the "rustic" section of development where US owners have been building for over two decades is well on its way to being fully electrified. A "rustic" development means that there are no community utilities. All of the electricity is solar generated, the water is hauled in from town, and each property has a septic system. Well, as of February 2009 approximately 60-65% of the electricity project was complete AND within Budget, so for the first time the owners at the original Playa Encanto development will not have to rely on solar power for electricity. LaJolla and Bella Vita have reportedly signed a contract for the right to use the poles and underground boxes in Playa Encanto, which will bring the community a little extra cash for such things as road repair, etc. You can find out more about Playa Encanto at http://www.playa-encanto.com

In the less positive news category, I wouldn't expect to see any real progress on the highly anticipated Marriott Penasco Bay hotel any time soon. The commitment has been made and ground was broken last year, but the developer has put a halt on new projects until the economy recovers.

The billion-dollar Penasco Bay Resort at Sandy Beach is being developed by Grupo Questro, a well-known developer from the Los Cabos, Baja area and Grupo SBR, which is the developer of Sandy Beach Resorts. Located on the far side of the Esmeralda Resort, Penasco Bay is 630-acre project designed to feature two 300-room beachfront hotels, 900 beachfront condominiums, an 18-hole golf course and resort with 1,000 homes and 1,000 more condominiums, and a convention and expo center to be built by the state of Sonora. One of those hotels is to be an upscale Marriott, originally expected to open in 2011. Marriott will brand and manage the hotel, but will not own it.

In October 2008 Eduardo Navarrese Sanchez, president of Grupo Questro, mentioned in an interview that real estate sales had collapsed in Los Cabos and Rocky Point, so they have restrained further investments and hope that the market recovers within a couple of years. He later confirmed in another interview that the Group is consolidating its efforts to finish projects already begun, but that new projects are on hold.

It would be my guess that the Puerto Penasco project is one of those on hold, but since neither SBR, Grupo Questro nor Marriott will respond to my requests for information, it's just that: a guess.

And that's the Beach Buzz for today!

About Beach Buzz: Not necessarily the news, this is a place for information, opinion, speculation, gossip, tips and other good stuff about Rocky Point, and Mexico in general. If you have something you'd like to share, I'd like to hear from you!

Contact me at lahuerita2@gmail.com

No Cases of Swine Flu in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico

Thus far Puerto Peñasco has registered no cases of Influenza A (H1N1), more commonly known as swine flu, according to Eliel Lopez Urias, Director of Epidemiology at the local health center. Lopez Urias asserts that there is no reason for Penasco to be in a state of panic.

The health center has been monitoring the situation consistently, with the purpose of detecting influenza in either pigs or humans. They have increased the number of daily consultations with patients, with special attention paid to increased reports of respiratory infections.

Lopez Urías indicated that though there has been an increase of almost 40% in reported cases of respiratory infections in the last week, this in no way means there is influenza in Puerto Penasco. He says it is important to get the word out so that the population, as well as tourists, do not fall prey to false information and rumors. He also noted the medical personnel of the community has redoubled its efforts and work to address those respiratory infections.

Lopez Urias ascribes the increase in those cases to the influence of the mass media in spreading the description of symptoms. He believes that due to that knowledge people are going to the doctors when the first symptoms appear, thinking it might be the flu, but so far there have been no cases of the flu detected or confirmed.

The health center is emphasizing the importance of personal hygiene by puertopeñasquenses, since the greatest risk of contracting or of transmitting the disease is in the lack of hand washing. Our hands, says Lopez Urias, are in constant contact with articles such as plates, work tools, home utensils, banister rails in public transport, and others places, where the virus might lurk and be picked up when the hands come in contact with mucous or saliva. The disease would then travel, unnoticed, and it is possible to be developed in the immediate or short term.

Hand washing and disinfectant use are important for prevention, in the same way as covering the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. So wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you cough, and take general precautions.

According to Wikipedia, The 2009 outbreak of influenza A (H1N1) virus is an epidemic of a new strain of influenza virus identified in April 2009, and is commonly referred to as "swine flu." The source of the outbreak in humans is still unknown but cases were first discovered in the U.S. and officials soon suspected a link between this and an earlier outbreak of late-season flu cases in Mexico. Within days, hundreds more suspected cases, many resulting in death, were discovered in Mexico, with more cases found in the U.S. and several other countries. Soon after, the U.N.'s World Health Organization (WHO), along with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), became concerned that it could become a worldwide flu pandemic, and WHO then raised its pandemic alert level to "Phase 5" out of 6 maximum, as a "signal that a pandemic is imminent".

Although virologists have noted that the outbreak is so far relatively mild and less fatal than previous pandemics, other health officials, including CDC Director Richard Besser, worry about what might happen later in the year, saying that "we are not seeing any sign of this petering out. We are still on the upswing of the epidemic curve. The number of cases is expected to rise as the new flu spreads across the country."

The new strain is an apparent reassortment of four strains of influenza A virus subtype H1N1. Analysis by the CDC identified the four component strains as one endemic in humans, one endemic in birds, and two endemic in pigs (swine). However, other scientists have stated that analysis of the 2009 swine flu (A/H1N1) viral genome suggests that all RNA segments are of swine origin, and "this preliminary analysis suggests at least two swine ancestors to the current H1N1, one of them related to the triple reassortant viruses isolated in North America in 1998." One swine influenza strain was widespread in the United States, the other in Eurasia. In a step towards understanding the outbreak, and developing a vaccine, Canadian scientists have completed the full genetic sequencing of H1N1 swine flu virus. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2009_swine_flu_outbreak

Lip Smacking Delights in Rocky Point

-by El Gitano Peñasco, "The Peñasco Gypsy"

Fans of the popular 1960’s TV sitcom The Andy Griffith Show may recall the episode in which Aunt Bee entered her God-awful homemade pickles in the Mayberry County Fair but lost out to Clara Johnson, who once again won the coveted Blue Ribbon…

Recently, while watching a segment of that 1961 episode (“The Pickle Story”) where Andy, Barney and Opie concocted a plan to get rid of Aunt Bee’s original batch, I found myself thinking about food. That led me to thinking that if I had to recommend a ‘must-eat’ place for a first time visitor in Penasco I’m not sure that I could.

I dare not boast that I’ve visited every dining establishment in Rocky Point but over the years I damn sure have hit a big chunk of the eateries there. Yet for the life of me I cannot come up with one specific ‘to-die-for’ place (or ‘dish’) to recommend.

On the other hand, I could offer a suggestion or two about a couple of places that I would not recommend, but after all these years not one eatery stands out in my mind (and taste buds) as the crème de la crème.

Don’t get me wrong, there are good places for breakfast, lunch and dinner (snacks, too) all over Penasco, but I’m talking about succulent, ‘chin-dripping’ eats that make the mouth water all the while gaining a pound or two just anticipating the next luscious feast…

So I’ll ask Rocky Point Tide readers for help, and hopefully some will recommend which restaurant has the best comida basura/chatarra (junk food), the best comida casera (home cooking), comida rápida (fast food), cocina/comida (cuisine) ‘cause I’m developing an insatiable seaside appetite and will soon need a ‘fix’-- and maybe seconds, too!

Viva México!

elgitanopenasco@gmail.com

Caldo de Queso: Cheese Soup, Sonoran Style

If you've never had cheese soup you might be thinking, Huh? Cheese soup? Are you kidding me?

Relax. This is really kind of a potato soup, with the addition of lots of good Mexican cheese and chile peppers. VERY delicious! To be honest, I have only ever had "Sonoran style" cheese soup so I can't say what other styles are out there or how they might differ. But I can definitely vouch for how flavorful this particular recipe is, and how easy to make, so give it a try!

For a more tangy cheese flavor use Queso Manchego or Queso Asadero (or Longhorn Cheddar if you must); for a milder cheese flavor use Queso Chihuahua (or Monterey Jack if you must). Serve with warm flour tortillas and butter.

Beach Buzz: Los Corales Project Forging Ahead

-by La Huerita

Back when the feeding frenzy of luxury condo development was in full swing in Puerto Penasco, a company named BBB Developments Mexico joined the fray by purchasing 3.9 acres of prime beachfront land in the Mirador section of town near Manny's Beach Club. They drew up plans for a 20-story 298 unit high-rise hotel/condo beach resort called "Los Corales", complete with on-site shopping, 3 cantinas, a full service restaurant with room service, workout center, spa, waterpark, full time security, underground parking, and "much more".

BBB got far enough along to begin "pre-construction reservations" (a euphemism for "pre-sales") for the condos and to break ground on the project. In April 2008 they partnered up with Omega Commercial Finance Corp., primarily to facilitate financing. By then the real estate market was already going sideways in the USA and taking the economy with it. As a result, the real estate market in Puerto Penasco dried up, too. Several development projects in Puerto Penasco screeched to a halt, sales swirled into the toilet, prices on condos began to drop. We all know that story, don't we?

Well, much to the chagrin of those who do not want to see high rise development in the Mirador (see Walking the Mirador), Los Corales is one project that didn't die. The developer claims the project is currently 30% sold out with all purchasers going to contract and fully executing their obligations. And therein lies a tale.

When the project failed to meet its original construction deadlines, people who had put deposits on condos began to ask for their money back. They didn't get it, even though their contracts stated they were entitled to refunds if certain conditions were not met.

The company essentially used a "Force Majeure" clause in the contract to deny such refunds and hold people to their contracts. Generally that clause is believed to refer to "Acts of God", such as earthquakes, hurricanes and such, but in fact it can cover much more. These clauses excuse a party from liability if some unforeseen event beyond the control of that party prevents it from performing its obligations under the contract. It is important to remember that force majeure clauses are intended to excuse a party only if the failure to perform could not be avoided by the exercise of due care by that party.

In this case the company cited the collapse of the real estate market and the economy as unforeseen circumstances that met the criteria. Buyers are crying foul. You can get a brief idea about buyers' feelings about it by clicking here.

I don't know the circumstances of those buyers. Perhaps they find they are no longer able to afford such an expensive purchase; perhaps they balk at being tied to a price that is now way over market value; perhaps it's a combination of things. But they are not necessarily the happy campers Omega Finance leads its shareholders to believe.

Meanwhile, Los Corales kept plugging along. In February, 2009 Omega announced a 100% buyout of the project, saying that the acquisition by Omega would be the best alternative to accelerate the project under current market conditions. The press release also mentioned that because the units are strategically being sold at 20-30% below current market value, Omega anticipates that most units will be sold by the conclusion of this year.

Considering the listed prices of many of those units on the Los Corales website, I have to wonder who is going to buy them? I also wonder if Omega is negotiating with the original purchasers of condos to reduce the contracted price by a similar percentage?

At any rate, BBB/Omega is to be commended at least for not just folding their tents and walking off with investors' money. They continue to forge ahead with the project and appear to have every intention of completing it. They have received pledges for financing from KSI Capital and BBVA Bancomer Bank and recently announced the completion of Phase I of the project.

Phase I included obtaining all permits, engineering, testing, land preparation and deconstruction of the property. To date, approximately $4.6 million has been spent on all overhead expenditures, marketing, permitting, insurance and legal expenses associated with Phase one's completion.

Phase II shall include underground construction, support structures, a desalination plant, water treatment facility, sewer treatment facility and parking.

So does that mean construction will resume soon? We'll have to wait and see. But while we wait I would suggest that Omega make some changes to their press releases and promotional materials for Los Corales.

1.) Stop presenting the project as having private beachfront. All beaches in Mexico are BY LAW public beaches, with ownership belonging to the Mexican people. You cannot legally restrict public access to any beach.

2.) Stop saying that Puerto Penasco is in the same geographic location as Los Cabos. Unless by "geographic location" they mean "Mexico" or being part of the vast Sonoran Desert, this is a foolish statement. Los Cabos is a thousand miles away on the other side of the Sea of Cortez.

3.) Do a remake of their new 'media presentation' at http://www.smallcapvoice.com/ocfn/los-corales/ The narrator has mispronounced "Puerto Penasco"...

4.) Put dates on the construction photos on the Los Corales website...

To see Omega Finance's most recent press releases about Los Corales, click here.

As always, your comments are welcome!

About Beach Buzz: Not necessarily the news, this is a place for information, opinion, speculation, gossip, tips and other good stuff about Rocky Point, and Mexico in general. If you have something you'd like to share, I'd like to hear from you!

Contact me at lahuerita2@gmail.com

Omega Commercial Finance Releases Statement to Update Shareholders

MIAMI, April 30, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Omega Commercial Finance Corporation (Pink Sheets:OCFN) has released the following statement to its shareholders:

In keeping with our pledge to increase transparency and improve the effectiveness of communication with our investor community, we are initiating a series of periodic updates to help keep potential investors and shareholders informed about our Company's progress. The Board, management and staff of Omega Commercial Finance Corp. deeply appreciate your ongoing faith and support and want you to know that we are working hard to bring opportunities to this enterprise for sustainable, long term growth.

We have experienced a very challenging year filled with many failures from corporate America. However, the Omega management team firmly believes that the initiatives taken in 2008 and 2009 are the first of many strategic implementations that are currently being conducted, in order to build corporate and shareholder value. The company was able to take adversity and create opportunity by targeting undervalued opportunities that would not have not been available but for the downturn in the real estate sector and the economy. We were able to go from zero to .30 cents a share in book value and expect that number to increase with our year-end audited financial statement.

Listed below are a few material events that have transpired for the Company over the last several months:

Change of Auditor - Most recently we announced that we engaged a new auditor, Randall N. Drake CPA, PA. Mr. Drake has an extensive background in the public and private arena including stints as the Chief Financial Officer of a multi-million dollar manufacturing company for over 10 years and the Marketing Analyst for a Fortune 500 company, The Jim Walter Corporation. Because of this recent change in auditors, we have experienced an inadvertent delay with our year-end 10k filing. We had anticipated the completion of the filing within the time allotted by the filing of our extension in order for the Company to remain a fully reporting bulletin board company. However, a discrepancy as to the amount of extensions filed within the last 12 months led to the technical delisting of the Company from the Bulletin Board onto the Pink Sheets. This should not be construed as anything more than an unfortunate punishment instituted by FINRA to the Company and we sincerely apologize to our shareholders for the unintentional delisting. The Company will continue to act as a fully reporting company until such time that we can either appeal or make application back to the Bulletin Board.

LOS CORALES RESORT PROJECT - February 11, 2009, we announced that we entered into a Definitive Agreement with BBB Developments Mexico and acquired 100% ownership of 3.9 acres of beachfront property located in Puerto Penasco, Mexico. A 3-phase plan has gone into effect with the development of this property turning it into a 298 unit high-rise hotel/condo beach resort located on prime beachfront property. The resort will boast full-scale amenities including luxurious landscaping, pools, Jacuzzis, spas, a beach club, restaurants, a private beach and private pier leading into the ocean. The resort will be comprised of both condos and a hotel meeting the demands of individuals looking to retire, have a second home, or come for a short term stay. Phase 1 has recently been completed and the Company is currently anticipating the initiation of Phase 2. Within the last several days the Company has received a pre-qualified commitment letter from Mexico's largest Bank BBVA Bancomer. This will help facilitate the funding of the project, as well as, provide loans to potential buyers of the resorts luxurious condos. The Company feels the timing of the commitment is perfect because they can now take advantage of certain opportunities with lowered labor and building material costs that the current economy has created. The Company also feels confident that a cyclical upturn with the economy will fall in line with the overall completion of the project. The overall valuation placed on this project upon completion is approximately $116,000,000.

STERLING MINES COMMERCIAL PROJECT - March 04, 2009, we announced the signing of a Definitive Agreement to acquire, through a share exchange agreement, the Sterling Mine commercial real estate project. The project is comprised of 30,654 sq. ft. of office and retail space located on 4.8 acres of prime real estate in Tuxedo Park, NY. The project is currently close to 75% complete and will be primarily comprised of retail space with optional adjoining office facilities. As of this date, Omega has been furnished with executed letters of intent that include 5-year occupancy terms by a local leasing agent. These agreements currently represent an occupancy rate of 84% upon completion of the project. The overall valuation of this project upon completion is approximately $7,500,000.

OMEGA ROYALE LUXURIOUS CASINO SHIP - July 28, 2008, we announced the signing of a Definitive Agreement to acquire a 100,000-sq.-ft. vessel that the Company anticipates refurbishing into a ultra luxurious resort style casino vessel equipped with a 49,000-sq.-ft. state-of-the-art casino that will include approximately 500 player tracking slot machines and 64 table games consisting of Baccarat, Black Jack, Craps and Roulette. The plush style casino will be spread over four decks, which will be connected via elevators and escalators. A complete Vegas Style Sports Book will afford gamblers the opportunity to wager 24 hours a day on various sport competitions. Resort style amenities such as multiple lounge venues, a Grand Show Room with headliner & production shows, expansive outdoor decks with several unique dining options will adhere to the wide range of gamblers the ship expects to draw. Special attention shall be paid to the ship's VIP facilities. The company anticipates including luxury suite accommodations, a VIP lounge, a world-class Asian spa, business conference facilities and retail boutique shops. At the time this acquisition was completed, management was not able to determine the depth or magnitude of the worldwide economic slump and its effect on the gaming industry. The ability to raise capital for this type of venture has also proved to be a challenging task with the overall sell off of the market and tightening of cash over the last several months. While the Company fully anticipates following through with its initiatives, we are also taking a careful approach in regards to the timing of entering into the casino ship gaming industry. The overall valuation placed upon this project upon completion is approximately $37,000,000.

Jon S. Cummings IV, CEO, stated, "We are excited about our future and remain dedicated to building a successful and sustainable business. We are also continuing to diversify our asset base with the goal of bringing various sources of revenue stream to the Company through the strategic implementation of extraordinary and undervalued acquisitions. Over the last several months we have taken bold steps toward achieving that goal, and also toward assuring you, our shareholders, of our absolute commitment to building a company that will increase in shareholder value."

Safe Harbor

This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements appear in a number of places in this release and include all statements that are not statements of historical fact regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Omega Commercial Finance Corp., its directors or its officers with respect to, among other things: (i) financing plans; (ii) trends affecting its financial condition or results of operations; (iii) growth strategy and operating strategy. The words "may," "would," "will," "expect," "estimate," "can," "believe," "potential" and similar expressions and variations thereof are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Omega Commercial Finance Corp.'s ability to control, and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. More information about the potential factors that could affect the business and financial results is and will be included in Omega Commercial Finance Corp. filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CONTACT:
Omega Commercial Finance Corporation
Investor Relations Dept.
Joseph Vazquez
305-728-5350
jmv_111@hotmail.com
info@ocfncorp.com
www.omegacommercialfinancecorp.com
www.loscoralesmexico.com
701 Brickell Avenue Ste. 1550
Miami, FL 33131

Press Release Source: Omega Commercial Finance Corporation

Gunned Down in Paradise

-by El Gitano Peñasco, "The Peñasco Gypsy"

I’ve long held that certain entities with vested interests in Puerto Penasco have and continue to ‘paint’ RP in an unrealistic manner, such as the once highly touted illusion that Rocky Point was destined to be “the next Cabo”.

Take, for example, the drug-related murders that occurred last week on Calle 13 and Benito Juarez Blvd on what was otherwise a typical slow and peaceful Sunday evening in Puerto Penasco. Mexican newspapers covered the story. Rocky Point Tides covered it.

Yet to the best of my knowledge, as of this writing (April 30, 2009) the leading newspaper for the State of Arizona, The Arizona Republic, failed to inform their citizens that the drug war is now officially and actively a part of the Rocky Point landscape.

Now why do you suppose a newspaper as large as The Arizona Republic thought or decided that the murder of four people at “Arizona’s Beach” was not newsworthy?

I’ll leave that for readers to decide but, IMO, from a moral perspective, The AZ Republic willfully and miserably let down the people of AZ by not covering, informing and/or warning their readers of a real-world threat.

It was as if someone at the paper decided that the public execution of four people in Rocky Point was no big deal, posed no eminent threat to AZ citizens who might be planning a trip to RP or that, well, “these things happen”…

I’m not saying that the news should have been front-page (Top Fold) in the Monday or Tuesday edition(s) but it has now been 5-6 days since the murders occurred, yet when I visited the newspaper’s website today and searched Rocky Point (or Puerto Penasco) there was zero information.

I did notice however that they published a piece earlier this week written by Sharie Smith of Scottsdale titled: "Rocky Point is not a bed of crime". That short article went on to say that "Drug cartels? You can't even buy Ambien without a prescription. The most threatening issue here is the little boy trying to clean your windshield."

I just can’t help but wonder what else (and why) The Arizona Republic is concealing about Penasco because based on a per capita basis (Phoenix pop. Vs RP), if that ambush had occurred in downtown Phoenix the death toll would have been approximately 160 Phoenicians gunned down in broad daylight. I would surely like to believe The AZ Republic would have deemed that newsworthy…

Viva México!

elgitanopenasco@gmail.com

FOOTNOTE from La Huerita: The AZ Republic finally published an article online for its May 1 edition that contained two paragraphs about the shooting, part of a larger article entitled "Triple threat hits hard at businesses in Puerto Penasco".