Mark Mulligan returns!

 

imageTrop-Rock was created entirely by one guy. Jimmy Buffet. Oozing out of the Florida Keys in the early 70’s, Jimmys’ music was Southern Rock mixed with the relaxing effects of the Carribeans’ hot climate and laid back culture. That and the rum. The soundtrack for non-conforming youth lives on, and has become the soundtrack for non-conforming grown ups. Life with toes in the sand, drink in hand was cool in your twenties. In your fifties? It’s a mental health issue.

The appeal of Trop-Rock has created an industry of festivals, paraphenalia, and an appreciation for all things “Margaritaville”. These days, many artists bring their own personal stamp to the music. Here on the shores of the Sea of Cortez, Mark Mulligan is a performer well loved for his songs about life outside the lines.

Mark makes an appearance at Rocky Points‘ Carribean Parrot this coming Sunday, May 25th, Memorial Day Weekend. Marks’ fans pack the place wherever he plays. They know all the words and sing along. As usual with a Mark Mulligan show, part of the proceeds go to support local charities.

This is a repeat engagement for Mark at the Carribean Parrot, a place with a Tiki bar vibe and a menu that includes Fetucinni Alfredo, great big cheese burgers, and everything in between. Cold pitchers of beer? That goes without saying. The night starts with Happy Hour from 5pm to 6pm, and includes the Entertainment All-Stars, Flyin’ Bryan and Baby Jane.

Experience your own tropical paradise, if only for the night, with Mark Mulligan at Carribean Parrot, Sunday May 25th at 7pm. Located on Sinaloa near Blvd. Freemont.  By Richard Scott

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The new Expo Center

This week the Governor of the State of Sonora, Guillermo Padrés Elias, and the mayor of Puerto Peñasco, Gerardo Figueroa Zazueta, officially opened the towns’ new Convention Center.

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Rocky Point Expo Center

The Expo Center has been up and running for a while. During the past few months, it has hosted the cities’ annual Black and White formal gala, as well as home town boxing hero Juan Francisco “Gallo” Estradas’ succesful defense of his world welter wieght title. This weeks inauguration , with dignitaries from the worlds of politics and tourism, re-inforces the value that is placed on the new venue.

While Rocky Point currently has a number of spaces for public events (Los Volcanes Ballroom at the Sonoran Sky Resort, Quinta Ventura in town are two prominent examples), none match the Expo Centers’ size. Approximately 4000 attended the “Gallo” Estrada fight. Being located just past the “Cholla Mall” in an area of wide-open desert, the Center gives easy access to residents from town, as well as from the nearby resorts on Sandy Beach. Tourism officials stated their intention is to attract a higher level of events to Rocky Point, now with the center able to accomodate them.

Puerto Peñascos' Moms on their day.

Puerto Peñascos’ Moms on their day.

Days after the ceremony, city officials employed the Expo Center to show their respects on Mothers’ Day (May 10th in Mexico). More than 2000 of the cities’ Moms were there, being treated to live music, food, and prizes. Receiving a lot of use from the very start, it will be interesting to watch the impact as the new Expo Center becomes a regular participant in Rocky Points public events.
By Richard Scott

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Mermaids in the Park?

Home made fudge. Jewelry. Hand woven baskets. Rocky Points’ Shimp Park (or Plaza Camaron) turns into a craft fair two Saturdays every month when the Mermaids’ Market sets up shop.

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Yes, that’s a statue of a shrimp.

Mermaids’ Market is the creation of Russ and Naomi Black, Puerto Peñasco residents who support the work of local artisans through this event. On the first and third Saturday monthly, October through June, ‘Mermaids’ is the place to be for fun shopping, live music, and food from local vendors. Look for special events too. Last month saw a pirate costume contest and cajun cooking (shrimp boil, red beans and rice, yum). Mermaids’ Market runs 10am to 3pm on the first and third Saturdays, October through June. More information is available at Mermaidsmarket.com            By Richard Scott

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Movie Magic under the Stars

“Lets’ hurry, it’s gonna’ start.” I pick up my cup of frozen pistachio yogurt (topped with fresh blackberries!), and get up from the table on the patio of Yofrut. Why the rush? It’s movie night at Puerto Viejo café. I want a good seat. And some popcorn.

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Film lovers and artists at Cinemartes

This Tuesday night is busier than most. It’s Artists Day in Mexico, so along with the weekly film, candle makers work at one table, a woman sits as a dragon is painted on her back, and photographers capture the full moon rising above the old church steeples. Pretty Bohemian for Rocky Point.

The movie night is called Cinemartes, and is presented by Cine Club Primer Toma, A. C. Every Tuesday at 8:30pm, film lovers enjoy current movies from around the world. About half are in English with Spanish sub-titles, half the other way around. It’s free too!

Puerto Viejo is just a block off of the Malecon, by the old church. Thier patio has become the place to find live music, movies, and good strong coffee. If you’re lucky, they will be roasting a new batch while you are there.

“Quick, let’s sit…there!” We slide into a leather love seat just as the credits roll. A taxi politely turns off it’s lights as it passes. With stars above, a light sea breeze begins to blow. The smell of coffee and cinnamon fills the air. Now this is how you watch a movie!

Cinemartes presents the best of world cinema every Tuesday at 8:30pm at Café Puerto Viejo on Calle Zaragossa, across from the main church in the Old Port neighborhood.     By Richard Scott

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Cruising by Yofrut Yogurt

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Roasting beans from Chiapas

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The Church from Café Puerto Viejo

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Local painter Hector Hans Munro

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Regatta sailing in Rocky Point

Guess which state has the highest percentage of boat owners? Surprisingly, it’s Arizona. Being right next door, so to speak, Rocky Point is the closest ocean access for boaters who want more than a lake. Every May for the past 10 years, the Cinco de Mayo Regatta brings the beauty of sailing catamarans to Rocky Points‘ waters.

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The Regatta by Esmerelda Resort

What’s a Regatta? It means ‘race’. Part of a series of races, this event is hosted by the Phoenix Hobie Fleet 66. The popular and innovative Hobie Cat design is on display, with 3 or 4 races each on Saturday and Sunday, May 3rd and 4th.

Lay your blanket on Sandy Beach during Cinco de Mayo weekend, and enjoy the show. The friendly folks from Fleet 66 will be happy to talk about the boats they love. Who knows, you may become a convert too. Many start in the sport by becoming crew members.

The Cinco de Mayo Regatta is on Sandy Beach, Rocky Point May 3rd and 4th. Tucsons Fleet 514 hosts the other big sailing event of the year, the Pinata Regatta, during the first week of October. For more information see the Fleet 66 website.
By Richard Scott

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The John Coinman Band

imageWrecked at the Reef welcomes singer/songwriter John Coinman and his band on Saturday, May 10th.

Based in Tucson, Coinmans’ music reflects a life long interest in the American Southwest. Known for his solo work, as well as music for the movies, he is currently working on a set of new songs.

A long term project for Coinman is the group Modern West, his collaboration with actor Kevin Costner. The new material will be incorporated in a soon to be released album from this group.

John Coinman Band (John Coinman, Peter McGlaughlin, and Neil Herry, guitar, bass, and drums) May 10th, Wrecked at the Reef. Doors open at 7pm. Accomodations at Seaside Reservations. By Richard Scott

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Dirty Beach Mud Run

imageComing up on Saturday, May 24th (Memorial Day Weekend) is the next installment of the Dirty Beach Mud Run. Challenge yourself to 5 kilometers of crawling, climbing, and balancing your way to the finish line.

And mud. Getting dirty is a big part of the event. For one day Rocky Point Speedway turns into the mother of all mud pits. Balance beams and climbing walls cover what is normally a short course race track. Most days, an instructor co-pilots you around the oval while you learn how to drive a race car flat out fast. The Dirty Beach Mud Run is a race too, and there are those who come to win. Go for the gold, or see how much you can take, either way the Mud Run is a fun time.

15 different obstacles await you, as well as various surprises and refreshment stations. Refreshments as in water, beer, or shots. Following the event, stay for the big beach party afterwards

Rocky Point Speedway is at the end of Sandy Beach near the reef, on the way to Cholla Bay. Doors open at 10:00am, with the first ‘wave’ hitting the course at 11:00am, with additional waves every hour. Pre-register online, or at Playa Bonita on Friday the 23rd from 6:00pm to 8:00pm for discount pricing.

By Richard Scott

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Cena y velada musical a beneficio de los Rolling Rockies

imageLos Rolling Rockies son el equipo de basketbol en silla de ruedas de Puerto Peñasco. En solo pocos años ellos se han convertido en la mayor fuerza a nivel estatal. También han puesto su energia en ayudar a los niños de la ciudad a participar en eventos paralimpicos.

Quieres ayudarlos? El proximo Jueves 8 de Mayo, habrá un evento a beneficio de los Rockies. Será en el salón de la Casa de la Playa, en Las Conchas con deliciosa cena del chef Jerry de Jerrys’ Banquetes, un grupo musical se encargará de hacer el ambiente para conversar o bailar un poco, como tu prefieras.

Los Rolling Rockies fueron anfitriones recientemente, ahora deben competir en el próximo torneo en Nogales, Sonora. El dinero que se recaude en esta cena y velada musical se utilizará en uniformes y gastos de viajes.

Ven y disfruta de una noche con cena deliciosa y agradable musica cerca de la playa y bajo las estrellas.

Mas informacion y boletos aqui o 638) 107 3385.

By Richard Scott

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Benefit for the Rolling Rockies

imageThe Rolling Rockies are Rocky Points’ wheelchair basketball team. In just a few years they have become a real force at the state level. They also put their energy into helping local kids participate in paralympic events. Want to help them out?

Coming up Thursday, May 8th, there will be a benefit for the Rockies. Located in the ballroom of the Casa de la Playa, dinner will be provided by Jerrys’ Banquetes. A band will be there to set the mood for conversation, or a little dancing. It’s up to you.

The Rockies hosted the season opener for the league recently, and have a tournament to compete in at Nogales. Money raised at the benefit helps them with uniforms, and travel expenses.

Come on out for a night of fine food and beautiful music under the stars. More information and tickets available here.  Or call 638 107 3385.

By Richard Scott

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