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Ensenada, April 19, 2024 – A severe car accident occurred at the San Miguel toll booth on the toll road in Ensenada this Friday, causing significant delays and a fatality.
Early reports suggest that the accident was caused by a driver who, traveling from north to south, allegedly fell asleep at the wheel. The vehicle, under the driver’s control, collided at high speed with the structure of the San Miguel toll booth.
Tragically, the collision resulted in the immediate death of the 27-year-old driver. Another individual was injured in the incident, although it remains unclear whether this person was a passenger in the same vehicle or was involved in one of the three other cars affected by the crash.
The accident led to extensive traffic jams, with wait times reaching up to three hours for vehicles attempting to pass through the toll booth. Given that this is a federal highway, the National Guard was on the scene to manage the aftermath of the crash. Unfortunately, they have not released any official statements regarding the details of the incident as of yet.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Drivers are advised to stay informed and exercise caution when traveling through major toll points.
Photos by Patricia Lafarga. https://www.facebook.com/LafargaReportera
Red Barn Rescue, based in San Diego, CA, and extending its help to Baja, Mexico, serves as a safe haven for animals that have faced abuse, neglect, or abandonment. More than just a rescue, this nonprofit educates the public on important issues like the benefits of spaying and neutering and the joys of adopting a rescue animal.
The organization invites you to support their mission by attending a special fundraising event on April 29, 2024, from 3 PM to 6 PM at Hacienda K43. For a $25 USD donation, guests will enjoy a mini buffet featuring pizza, pasta, and salad, and receive a complimentary margarita or sangria.
This fun-filled afternoon offers a chance to meet fellow animal lovers, enjoy delicious food, and contribute to a cause that transforms lives—one animal at a time. Funds raised will help Red Barn Rescue continue their work, partnering with approved local fosters to provide nurturing temporary homes until each animal finds their forever family.
To learn more about the event or how you can help, visit Red Barn Rescue. Your support can lead to a brighter future for these deserving animals. Join us on April 29th to make a lasting impact in your community!
Exciting news for sailing enthusiasts and adventure lovers! The third edition of the Guadalupe Island to Ensenada Regatta is set to sail on May 18th. This isn’t just any race; it’s a challenging offshore journey that stretches over 400 nautical miles and lasts between five to six days, depending on the weather.
Carlos Hussong González, a member of the Todos Santos Ocean Racing Club and a promoter of this maritime competition, shared that this year, they’re expecting around three sailboats to participate. He mentioned that this race is catching the eyes of international sailors each year, helping to solidify its status as a top-tier offshore sailing event. Offshore races, unlike coastal sailing where boats stay close to land, involve greater risks and demand intense technical skill and effort from the crew, making them a major draw in other parts of the world, both as a sport and a tourist attraction.
This edition of the race has the backing of the Mexican Sailing Federation and will feature international judges, which just adds to its prestige. Hussong González also highlighted the potential for local tourism, noting the huge sailing community in California, with over fifty thousand sailboats, suggesting a promising market for sailing events in Mexico.
The race starts and finishes in the city of Ensenada and promises to be an exhilarating challenge for everyone involved. So, if you’re into sailing or just love the thrill of a good race, this event might just be what you’re looking for!
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The Mexican Observatory on Mental Health and Addictions has issued an early warning about the rise of Xylazine, a veterinary drug, being mixed with Fentanyl and methamphetamine among addicts in Mexico. Known as the “zombie drug” in the United States, Xylazine is gaining popularity due to its potent, relaxing effects, similar to Fentanyl, and can be lethal in cases of overdose, leading to respiratory arrest.
Juan Manuel Quijada Gaitán, the National Commissioner of Mental Health and Addictions in Baja California, noted that while Xylazine use is still rare in Mexico, its presence has already been detected in our State. It remains a legal substance under the regulation of the Federal Commission against Health Risks (Cofepris) due to its veterinary applications. Like Fentanyl, it is used medically, primarily in veterinary practices, for its sedative properties that depress the central nervous system, akin to opioids.
The alert was triggered after consultations with prosecutors, health secretaries, forensic medical services, and associations such as Prevencasa in Tijuana and other rehabilitation centers. Gaitán expressed concern over the affordability of synthetic drugs like Xylazine and Fentanyl, which makes them accessible to those struggling with addiction. In the event of an overdose, it can be countered with naloxone.
In an unusual scene last weekend on the beaches of Rosarito, Baja California, authorities were called to rescue four stranded vehicles. Two of these vehicles, found partially submerged in the sea, attracted considerable attention from onlookers and required several hours of effort to be safely removed. The operation took place near the Mar y Sol condos, close to the Baja California Convention Center.
The vehicles involved included older models of Ford and Chevrolet trucks, one of which was notably stuck about 50 meters into the sea. Local police coordinated the rescue efforts, which included the use of contracted tow trucks to haul the vehicles out of their precarious positions. The trucks were described as two Ford pickups, one red and one grey, both from the early 2000s, a white Ford F-50 from 2000, and a brown Chevrolet Silverado from 1998.
The incident, while certainly unexpected, ended without any reported injuries, but it did leave many wondering how the vehicles ended up there in the first place. As of the latest updates, there was no clear information on whether the vehicles had been abandoned or if they had been driven onto the beach for some reason that led to them being caught by the tide. Additionally, it wasn’t immediately clear if the vehicles had been claimed by their owners or if any charges would be pressed related to the incident.
Do you know how this vehicles ended up there? Comment below or on our facebook page.
SOURCES: El Imparcial, AFN Tijuana, Debate
As Baja California enters its official campaign period for the 2023-2024 local elections, political activity is picking up across the region. From now until May 29, candidates will compete for various positions within the state’s seven municipal governments—including mayors and city councils—as well as 25 seats in the State Congress. This election cycle, managed by the State Electoral Institute of Baja California (IEEBC), will determine 122 new local officials, such as council members, legal trustees, mayors, and local deputies.
This election is historic for San Quintín and San Felipe, which will choose their mayors via the ballot box for the first time. These elections are simultaneous with the Federal Electoral Process, where Mexicans will vote for federal lawmakers and the President.
Participants in this year’s election include nine political parties, a coalition, and an independent candidate aiming for the mayoral seat in San Quintín. Local dynamics are interesting, with some parties forming a coalition for select municipalities and others choosing to go solo after planned alliances dissolved.
The campaigns also emphasize gender parity, with regulations requiring parties to nominate a balanced lineup of male and female candidates for mayor across various competitive blocks. This measure aims to foster a more inclusive political environment.
New logistical features such as candidate photos on local ballots will debut, enhancing voter familiarity and engagement. Another significant update is the inclusion of specific mandates for parties to present candidates from underrepresented groups, including indigenous, Afro-Mexican communities, and LGBT+ individuals, promoting diversity in representation.
With the stage set for a dynamic election, the residents of Baja California are ready to influence the future of their local governance, making informed choices that will shape the region’s socio-political landscape in significant ways.
BY OLIVER QUINTERO
Goodbye to Card Fees! In a unanimous decision, the Mexican Chamber of Deputies has given the green light to a reform that aims to ban the extra charges consumers face when paying with bank cards. Garnering a whopping 446 votes in favor, this move is celebrated across all political spectrums. The reform updates the Federal Consumer Protection Law, making it illegal for providers to impose additional fees for payments made with debit or credit cards. Offenders could face fines ranging from a few hundred to over two million pesos. Now, it’s off to the Senate for further discussion. If passed, this could mean more money in your pocket after each swipe or tap.
Ensenada’s Big Cleanup: 70 Tons Lighter. In Ensenada, a staggering 70 tons of trash were cleared from local beaches in March, with 10 tons collected just over the Easter weekend. Mayor Carlos Ibarra Aguiar praised the Zofemat team’s efforts to protect the coastal environment but expressed disappointment over the lack of awareness among locals and visitors about the environmental damage caused by littering. Despite having trash bins readily available on the beaches, many choose to leave their waste behind, including plastic containers, disposable dishes, and even clothing. It’s a pressing reminder that enjoying nature comes with the responsibility of keeping it clean.
Rosarito’s Easter Week Sees Dips in Hotel Stays. This Easter, Rosarito experienced an average hotel occupancy rate of 64%, with weather playing a significant role in the decreased number of visitors compared to last year, shared César Rivera González, the head of Cotuco in Rosarito. The peak occupancy hit 82% on Friday, but by Sunday, it dramatically dropped to 34%. Despite this, the beaches still welcomed around 20,000 people, with Friday seeing the highest turnout at 15,000. This year’s figures are a notable dip from last year’s 35,000 visitors, indicating a shift in the holiday’s typical bustling activity.
As if Spring Break’s Damp Spirits Weren’t Enough… Spring break in Rosarito didn’t just fall short due to weather; locals say the real storm cloud was fear of police. Local businessowners with decades of experience say they have never seen such a slow season, dismissing rain as the deterrent. It’s not the weather keeping the party at bay, but police intimidation, they argue. With the streets eerily quiet, the usual vibrant start to the high season was missing, signaling a potentially bleak summer ahead. Desperate for a lifeline, merchants are calling on officials to address this tourism crisis before it’s too late, as fear shadows the once bustling beach town.
From Silent Streets to Booming Leases. Not all are bad news, as spring breathes new life into Rosarito, the real estate market is buzzing, especially with short-term rentals, offering a silver lining amidst tourism concerns. Mar Picazo, head of the local AMPI chapter, highlights a spike in demand for vacation and long-term rentals, bringing optimism to property owners. Despite fears of fraud, particularly in cash transactions potentially hinting at money laundering, professional real estate agents are steering clients clear of legal pitfalls by adhering to cash transaction limits. The city remains vigilant against rare “ghost” agent scams, relying on thorough checks and the expertise of real estate professionals to maintain a healthy, scam-free market.
Only 13% Trust Tap Water In Baja. In Baja California, just over a tenth of the population dares to drink water straight from the tap, and why would they do that? That’s a significant trust deficit revealed by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi) in 2023. With a mere 13.2% of residents confident in their tap water’s potability, Baja finds itself in the lower ranks nationally, where the average hovers around 20.9%. This skepticism contrasts sharply with Tlaxcala, where nearly half the population trusts their water, highlighting a broader concern over water quality across Mexico. Despite most residents relying on public water networks, satisfaction dips as issues like purity, constant supply, and infrastructure efficiency linger, underscoring the critical need for improvements in water services and infrastructure in the region.
Vehicle Accident Deaths Spike in Ensenada. In just the first two months of 2024, Ensenada witnessed a staggering 350% increase in fatalities from vehicle accidents compared to the same period last year, with 21 lives tragically lost. Authorities link this surge to drunk driving, emphasizing a need for greater awareness and stricter enforcement of road safety measures. February alone saw 15 deaths, a significant jump from just six across January and February of 2023. The local government plans to ramp up random DUI checkpoints across the city, aiming to stem this worrying trend and remind everyone of the importance of responsible driving.
Four Baja California Beaches Deemed Unfit for Swimmers. Just before the 2024 Easter break, health authorities flagged four Baja California beaches as unsafe for recreational use due to high bacteria levels. The Federal Commission for Protection Against Health Risks (Cofepris) released findings from pre-vacation monitoring, indicating elevated enterococcus counts in the waters of two beaches in Rosarito and two in Tijuana, surpassing the health safety limits. Conversely, Ensenada’s popular spots like La Joya and Playa Hermosa passed the tests, ensuring they’re clean for holidaymakers. This analysis comes from extensive testing across the country, highlighting the importance of clean beaches for public health.
Celebrating Ensenada’s Global Community. Ensenada gears up to celebrate its diverse expat community with the Baja International Community Mega Mixer 2024, spearheaded by the National Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Services (Canaco-Servytur). The event, set for May 5th, aims to honor the economic contributions of foreign residents. Expecting over 300 attendees from various nationalities, the gathering will offer cultural presentations and a gastronomic showcase. Organizers emphasize the importance of recognizing expats as integral members of the community, contributing to the local economy. This initiative, hoping to become an Ensenada tradition, also includes discussions on fostering a sense of belonging in border tourist towns.
Rising Abortion Requests in our State. Baja California has seen a significant rise in abortion requests this year, with the Health Secretary reporting 265 procedures so far—an increase of 95% compared to the first three months of 2023. Lucia Alejandra Pérez from the Gender Equity and Reproductive Health department notes that most applicants are aged 25 to 35, with cases up to 45 years also reported. The service, which is free and medication-based, doesn’t delve into the reasons behind the request, adhering strictly to legal guidelines. Mexicali, Tijuana, and Ensenada lead in requests, with abortion services provided exclusively by state health facilities since its decriminalization in 2021.
State Hits Record $58 Billion in International Sales. Baja California’s international sales soared to over $58 billion in 2023, marking a 4.2% growth from 2022. Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda shared this milestone, highlighting the U.S. as the state’s top trading partner. With trade extending to 124 countries, the U.S. dominates, accounting for 94.8% of transactions. Canada and Colombia follow. Key exports included monitors, motor vehicles for cargo, and medical instruments, showcasing a diverse industrial base. Meanwhile, international purchases also hit a record high of $49.53 billion, with the U.S., China, and South Korea as top suppliers, emphasizing the region’s robust economic connections.
Residents Disapprove of Street Conditions. In Baja California, a whopping 92.9% of residents are unhappy with the state of their city streets, leaving only a small 7.1% satisfied, reveals the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). This dissatisfaction score ranks as the lowest in public services across the state, starkly contrasting the national approval average of 16.6%. Issues range from delayed pothole repairs to poorly maintained traffic lights and signage. Additionally, while some find non-toll roads safe and well-marked, overall satisfaction with road services remains low, highlighting a significant area for improvement in urban infrastructure.
Cycling for a Cause. Ready to ride for a noble cause? The Pedaleando Rosarito – Valle de Guadalupe 60 km bike ride on April 13 aims to fund a year of cancer treatment for five children. Organized by the Castro Limón Foundation, the event promises a scenic 60 km journey from Baja Studios in Rosarito to Viñedos Bibayoff in Valle de Guadalupe. Each child’s treatment costs about 1 million pesos, covering everything from medical expenses to psychological support. With hydration points and gifts along the route, participants can enjoy a fulfilling ride while contributing to an impactful cause. Join the ride and help make a difference!
Catch a Glimpse: Partial Solar Eclipse in Baja California. Exciting news for sky watchers in Baja California! On April 8, around 10:00 AM local time, you’ll get to see the moon covering more than half of the sun during a solar eclipse. Unlike many astronomical events that happen over the ocean, this eclipse’s path will cross over land, with Mexico being one of the prime viewing locations. The event will start around 10:00 AM Pacific time and will last for about three hours, peaking at about an hour and a half in. Remember to protect your eyes with special eclipse glasses or use a simple pinhole projector to safely enjoy the view. Don’t miss out on this rare celestial phenomenon!
BY MARTINA DOBESH
There is nothing that perks up the ears of local residents faster than the call Two for One drinks!
Kraken knows how to get attention and bring people in to fill the empty seat that appear in off season along the Baja Coast. Summer is approaching soon and we can expect the tourist to pack all the eateries having an ocean view.
Monday through Thursday 12:00 to 5:00 you can order your two for one margaritas and/or the house cervezas along with the special menu each day starting with Monday pizza, Taco Tuesday 2 for 1, Wednesday 40% off sushi rolls and Thursday good ol’ home cooked fried chicken. The friendly staff is just one of the outstanding features of this hidden gem. We do love the murals of old sailing ships being attacked by the infamous Kraken and the giant fish gliding along one wall. If you want to have the experience of the “old” Baja fishcamps this is the place as there are very few remaining.
The menu is a wonderful variation of hearty steaks, Pesto pasta and shrimp, sushi and gourmet tacos that with rock your ship! Add to this an array of libation that will sooth the hearty sailor. Make it a point to visit Monday through Thursday for the specials, or come on the weekends and sit out side with a view of the wild seascape. This is one of a kind.
661-104-3840
Free Road Km 52 at Playa El Campito
BY REN DRAKE HILL
Directly from last year’s “resounding success,” the Crossing South Wine and Food Festival will again adorn the Gardens of the Rosarito Beach Hotel, Saturday, April 20, 3 – 9 pm. Crossing South claims there was an “overwhelming” demand for a second Festival. Jorge Meraz, host of Crossing South on PBS will again be the Host of Honor this year. There will be many photo ops around the festival, so feel free to take some snaps of your favorite chefs, vintners, and the host Jorge, himself.
Due to this success, the number of restaurants, wineries and entertainers were expanded. Thirteen wineries of the Valle de Guadalupe will join with 25 restaurants and three craft breweries from Tijuana, Rosarito, Ensenada, and points in between. Restaurants will provide tastes of their signature dishes. Now I know you may have a different “signature dish” in your minds, but this will be a chance to sample other great menu items from your favorite bistros. All this while being entertained by many talented musicians and entertainers. There may even be a salsa dancing class, or two.
This year’s Crossing South event promises to be more spectacular. One new touch, to celebrate spring, the Crossing South Wine and Food Fest will be a White Attire Event. (I hope I can still wear my blue Crossing South hat!)
Some of the local restaurants include Marea Alta, Pasta y Basta, Chaubert’s (Rosarito Beach Hotel’s fine dining establishment), Tacos Kokopelli, ad Hacienda de Badu, a favorite of roasted lamb lovers.
Crossing South on PBS is in its 12th season. New episodes featuring arts, artists, culture, and food, from fine dining to the best in taco stands, will be airing starting this month. If you are unable to catch the episodes as they air on PBS, many episodes are available at the PBS website. Some past shows have highlighted the Blues Against Hunger drive and the Rosarito Club de Ninos y Ninas.
PBS joins COTUCO and CANIRAC of Rosarito, the ministry of tourism, and the Chamber of Restaurants as co-hosts of this gastronomic event.
Tickets are available at www.Eventbrite.com, under “events in Mexico.” General admission to this “all you can eat/sip event”: $80; VIP admission $150, or $72 and $145.90 respectively with the 10% discount. Last year this event sold out, so get your tickets pronto. Your attendance doesn’t merely delight your taste buds, but you will be supporting the emergent culinary scene in northern Baja California.
Crossing South is a “Feel good” show to entice those in the southern US to visit our beautiful Baja, and to remind those of us living here, Tijuana to Ensenada, what a culinary paradise we are living in.
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