Gringo Gazette

Gringo Gazette

Articles

Holy Week Shutdown Strikes Again

Yes, You’ll Survive Two Days Without the Bank

If you were planning to do anything remotely bureaucratic this Thursday or Friday, think again. Banks will be closed. Most government offices? Also closed. Why? Because it’s Holy Week, and in Mexico, that means it’s time to hit pause on anything that resembles productivity.

From Thursday (April 17) through Friday (April 18), offices all over the country are locking up and heading out—presumably to the beach, a barbecue, or church (in that order, probably).

So what does this mean for you? If you need to do anything involving money transfers, immigration paperwork, permit renewals, or your favorite pastime—waiting in line at the SAT office—save yourself the heartbreak. It’s not happening.

ATMs should still work (we said “should”), and you might find some banks with limited services at grocery store branches. But anything requiring an actual human behind a desk? Nope.

Post offices, courts, city halls, and other official spots are joining in the national long weekend. You know it’s serious when even the people who stamp your papers are saying “mañana.”

On the bright side, it’s a great excuse to take a break yourself. Go enjoy some sunshine, eat too many empanadas, and reflect on the fact that life in Mexico comes with siestas and government-wide vacations.

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 Baja Norte, Editions

March 24, 2025 Edition

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 Baja Norte, Editions

March 10, 2025 Edition

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 Baja Norte, Editions

February 24, 2025 Edition

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 Baja Norte, Editions

February 10, 2025 Edition

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 Baja Norte, Editions

January 27, 2025 Edition

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 Articles, Breaking News

Dry Winter and Santa Ana Winds: Baja California Faces Heightened Wildfire Risk

If you’ve noticed those strong Santa Ana winds lately, you’re not imagining things. According to María Tereza Cavazos Pérez, a researcher from Cicese’s Department of Physical Oceanography, these conditions are typical during a La Niña event—but this year, they come with an added danger. A dry winter and intense winds are creating a perfect storm for wildfires in Baja California.

La Niña, which can last over a year, took its time arriving after being forecasted back in mid-2024. It’s now firmly in place, and satellite imagery confirms that since early January, strong winds have been blowing from the continent toward the Pacific. This has created high-pressure conditions, sunny skies, and those infamous Santa Ana winds sweeping through California and northern Baja.

The outlook? Dry weather is expected to stick around until at least the end of January, with little rain on the horizon. This dryness, coupled with strong winds, means an increased risk of wildfires. Recent blazes in Maneadero, Ojos Negros, Valle de la Trinidad, El Tigre, and Tecate highlight the danger. In fact, Baja California’s border region is considered a wildfire hotspot, especially under these conditions.

Dr. Cavazos warns that fires in Baja could be as catastrophic as those seen in Los Angeles, where even with advanced resources and technologies, controlling wildfires has been a massive challenge. “If they can’t manage it, what can we do?” she asks. She stresses the need for heightened awareness and preventative actions: no flicking cigarette butts, no burning trash, and definitely no campfires.

Globally, the risk of extreme weather events is rising due to climate change and phenomena like La Niña. The dry conditions in Baja California are a stark reminder that these aren’t isolated issues—they’re part of a larger trend that demands attention.

So, stay vigilant, Baja. It’s fire season, and every small action counts in preventing disaster. Let’s keep those winds blowing, but without the flames.

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 Articles, Breaking News

Programs to Support Deported Mexicans Expanded

Deported Mexicans arriving back into Baja California will now have access to federal support programs, including resources available directly within shelters, according to Alejandro Ruiz Uribe, the regional delegate for Federal Welfare Programs in Baja California. Ruiz Uribe shared the news following a meeting with the Business Coordinating Council of Ensenada (CCEE), led by Marco Antonio Estudillo Bernal.

The Mexican government has provided extensive training to officials to improve their treatment of deported migrants. Drawing on past experiences in Tijuana, Chihuahua, and Matamoros during the Trump administration, Ruiz Uribe emphasized that the shelters will now serve as entry points for social programs like Jóvenes Construyendo el Futuro (Youth Building the Future), pensions for seniors, and childcare support for mothers with young children.

“Each person arriving at a shelter will have the chance to enroll in these programs and receive benefits either on-site or in their hometowns,” said Ruiz Uribe.

Expanding Welfare Access

Ruiz Uribe also discussed efforts to increase funding for welfare programs in Baja California, aiming for an additional 48 billion pesos to serve over 583,000 beneficiaries. Currently, more than 360,000 seniors in the state receive a pension of 6,200 pesos, while 30,000 working mothers benefit from childcare stipends.

With these measures, the government is committed to offering comprehensive support for deportees and expanding welfare initiatives for vulnerable communities in the region.

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 Articles, Breaking News, Rosarito

Quinta Los Delfines Estate Sale: A Historic Opportunity

Proceeds from the sale will go toward expanding La Misión Performing Arts Center

Step into history and culture at the Quinta Los Delfines Estate Sale, a one-of-a-kind event taking place on February 7th and 8th, with a special VIP preview on February 6th. This extraordinary sale offers a rare chance to acquire antique heirlooms, artwork, and collectibles from a family deeply connected to Baja California’s history and cultural growth.

The story of Quinta Los Delfines began in 1950 when Esther López de González Saravia was inspired by then-President Miguel Alemán to invest in Baja California as part of a tourism initiative. Over the years, Esther and her son, José Miguel, developed a passion for art and antiques, amassing an impressive collection and dreaming of creating a cultural complex with a museum and theater. Today, the estate has evolved into a vibrant community hub, hosting theater productions, art classes, and cultural events that benefit residents, expats, and nonprofits like Cruz Roja and Rotary.

To support the continued growth of its programs and facilities, Quinta Los Delfines is letting go of cherished pieces from its collection. Items up for sale include fine furniture, porcelain dinnerware, sculptures, collectible models, paintings, books, and much more. A highlight of the weekend is the live auction of premium items and a silent auction, both happening on Saturday from noon to 2 pm.

The event kicks off with the exclusive White Diamond VIP Preview on February 6th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. For $25, attendees can enjoy champagne, caviar, hors d’oeuvres, and a sneak peek at the auction items. The main estate sale will run Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, offering something for everyone, from casual collectors to seasoned antique enthusiasts.

Proceeds from the sale will go toward expanding La Misión Performing Arts Center, ensuring that Quinta Los Delfines continues to be a cultural beacon for years to come. The estate sale represents not just a chance to own a piece of Baja California’s history but also an opportunity to support its vibrant future.

Don’t miss this unique event filled with history, art, and the spirit of community. For more information, contact quintalosdelfines@gmail.com and get ready to explore a treasure trove of Baja California’s rich cultural heritage.

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 Articles, Breaking News

New Baja Highway to Boost Jobs and Connectivity

Big news, amigos! Ensenada is gearing up for a massive road project that promises to ease your scenic drives while beefing up the job market. The upcoming alternative route to the bustling Scenic Road is not just a pathway; it’s a job creator with over 10,500 positions revving up over the next four years. This was all laid out in a recent morning spiel by none other than President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, as part of her grand National Road Infrastructure Program.

The focus of the program? Connectivity, with a hearty side of community support, especially for the areas that could really use a leg up. With a total stretch of 24 kilometers and a hefty tag of 3.5 billion pesos, this two-lane construction dubbed the ‘Bypass from Tijuana to Ensenada’ is set to begin its life as a pile of studies and projects this coming year.

Why all the fuss? Well, apart from making your trips smoother, these roads are part of a much bigger picture. The government’s shelling out a cool 35 billion pesos in 2025 alone, aiming to bridge gaps between communities across the country. By the end of the term, they’re looking at pouring nearly 150 billion pesos into roadworks that span 263 kilometers, including new bridges and roadways that are sure to make life a little easier for commuters and Sunday drivers alike.

President Sheinbaum was clear: this year’s plans are just the start. With decisions made in the spirit of enhancing connectivity and supporting the less fortunate zones, it’s clear that the wheels are turning towards a more connected and cared-for Mexico.

So, buckle up, Baja residents and visitors! New jobs, smoother rides, and better bridges are on the horizon, making sure that whether you’re headed to the beach or back to the border, the road ahead looks promising.

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