Luisa Rosas-Hernández is a writer for the Gringo Gazette North, where she covers Baja’s wine scene, good eats, and public safety—with a healthy dose of wit and no bad news allowed. By day, she’s a health researcher recognized by Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI), and by night, she handles the Gazette’s finances and dabbles in social media—making sure the numbers add up and the posts pop. When she’s not chasing stories or crunching data, you’ll likely find her in the Valle enjoying a glass of red (or a crisp white with oysters)… for research purposes, of course.
Turns out, a little beach cleanup goes a long way.
This Tuesday, July 1st, Playa Hermosa in Ensenada wasn’t just sun and sand—it was gloves, trash bags, and a team effort. State Secretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture (SEPESCA BC), Alma Rosa García Juárez, showed up with her crew for a cleanup event organized as part of the National Week Against Sanitary Risks.
And they weren’t alone. Red Cross volunteers also joined the effort, rolling up their sleeves to help clear the coast.
From Sand to Seafood
Alma Rosa didn’t just show up for a photo op. She’s been vocal about how clean beaches create a ripple effect—benefiting everything from marine life to food safety.
Her team reminded everyone that clean sand means cleaner water, which is key for aquaculture. That’s especially true for shellfish like oysters, mussels, and clams—aka the pride of local seafood culture. When the water’s dirty, so is the product. Nobody wants plastic-flavored ceviche.
Floating trash and microplastics don’t just look gross—they release toxins, upset the pH of the water, and open the door for harmful bacteria. The result? Bad news for both fish and fishermen.
Trash-Free = Tourist-Ready
Beyond the seafood, there’s tourism. Because let’s be honest: no one’s booking an Airbnb next to a trash heap.
Baja’s already blessed with great weather. Add a sparkling coastline, and you’ve got a spot that sells itself. Clean beaches attract more visitors, boost local business, and keep the “Baja magic” alive.
This isn’t just about looking good—it’s about living better. As Alma Rosa said, a clean ecosystem reflects a healthy, inspired community.
Global Goals, Local Wins
There’s also the bigger picture. Beach cleanups tie directly into the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda—specifically climate action and marine life preservation. Who knew tossing a bottle in the right bin could help save the planet?
During the Playa Hermosa cleanup, Alma Rosa met with local leaders including COFEPRIS, the Baja State Health Department, and Ensenada’s ecology team. Their message was clear: clean beaches are a shared job—with shared benefits.
And with Red Cross volunteers pitching in too, it’s proof that Baja cares—from its officials to its citizens.
#Photo courtesy of SEPESCA BC, taken during the July 1st cleanup at Playa Hermosa—because protecting the ocean starts with cleaning up the shore.
What You Can Do
Don’t ghost your garbage. Take it with you.
Support recycling efforts. Even if it’s not glamorous.
Join the next cleanup. It’s cheaper than therapy and better for the ocean.
Clean beaches mean better seafood, healthier oceans, and a brighter Baja. Let’s keep the coast clear.
Security isn’t just talk in Baja California anymore—it’s action. And not the Hollywood kind.
A criminal gang that was shaking down business owners in Ensenada has been taken down. The charge? Cobro de piso—that ugly racket where criminals demand money in exchange for “protection.” Refuse to pay? They light your place on fire or spray your home with bullets. That’s exactly what happened to one local restaurateur.
But here’s the plot twist: he reported it. That one act of courage set off a chain of events that ended with four men in cuffs. Boom.
From Flames to Arrests
According to the State Attorney General, these suspects were tied not only to extortion in Ensenada but also to a homicide in Mexicali. After committing the murder, they tried to lie low back in Mexicali—unaware that investigators were already connecting the dots.
They weren’t just petty criminals, either. Authorities say they were part of an organized crime group dealing in drugs and human smuggling. One tip, one complaint, and the whole thing unraveled.
As the AG put it, “We needed a formal complaint to make this happen.” In other words: silence helps the criminals. Speaking up helps everyone else.
More Boots, More Brakes
This isn’t an isolated case. As we’ve reported this month on ggnorth.com, the Baja California government has ramped up security with more patrols, more agents, and more checkpoints—especially around high-traffic corridors like Tecate–Tijuana.
Some folks complain about the delays, but let’s be real. A few extra minutes in traffic is worth it if it means your car doesn’t end up stripped in a canyon. Besides, these stops are working.
A National Guard officer (who asked to stay anonymous) told us that just last week at the Tecate–Tijuana checkpoint, they recovered four stolen cars and seized illegal substances. So yeah, those checkpoints aren’t just slowing you down—they’re stopping crime.
Not Just Luck—A Plan
All of this is part of Baja’s broader plan to make safety a priority. And it’s showing. From Ensenada to Mexicali, authorities are coordinating efforts and connecting cases across cities. This is real policing, not PR.
Even better? It’s giving business owners and tourists a reason to breathe easier.
Still a Long Road
The authorities believe this isn’t the only group operating. More victims may be out there, afraid to speak up. But this case proves that one voice is enough to tip the scales.
So if someone’s trying to charge you for “protection,” don’t stay quiet. Report it. You’re not alone—and the law might just be a few steps behind them.
Here’s the Deal
Extortion ring: Busted.
Cars & drugs: Recovered.
Officers: Working overtime.
The state: Making security a priority.
Citizens: Starting to believe it.
This time, Baja isn’t reacting—it’s taking charge.
In Valle de Guadalupe, some wineries try way too hard to seem important. Symmetria doesn’t have to. It doesn’t shout—it speaks in soft sips, kind gestures, and balanced bottles. And once you try it, you’re in.
We first crossed paths at a Provino press event a few years ago. That’s when we met Lola, a modest-looking bottle that hit different. Fresh, smooth, balanced. A year later, at the Muestra del Vino in 2024, we tasted it again. Still magical. That’s when we realized: Symmetria wasn’t a fad—it was a quiet revolution. The only problem? We had no idea where to find them again.
The Secret Ingredient: Balance
So what won us over? Their wines feel grounded—balanced enough to show skill, but never flashy. You can tell a barrel was involved, but it doesn’t try to dominate the room. Just enough to whisper “I’ve got your back”, not “I’ve got something to prove.”
Everything made sense after talking to Mauricio and Denise Soler, the couple behind the label. He’s the winemaker with a mission. She’s the force behind every label, sale, post, and good vibe. Their story started in Valle, but it wasn’t at Symmetria—it was when they became a couple around Monte Xanic. From the beginning, this was Mauricio’s dream, and Denise was right there building it with him, step by step.
From Vision to Vineyard
Their journey began in 2005, when the Soler family purchased a 5-acre property in the heart of the valley. Symmetria officially launched with the 2014 harvest—but long before that, Mauricio was already mapping out something bold.
While others followed tradition, he took a different route. Instead of studying winemaking locally, he enrolled in the Enology and Viticulture program at U.C. Fresno. After graduating, he gained real-world experience in the U.S., taking on key roles at several top wineries:
Artesa Winery (Cellar Worker/Lab Tech)
Roederer Estate (Enologist/Assistant Winemaker)
Maui Winery (Winemaker)
Longoria Winery (Associate Winemaker)
Each stop added depth. After years of learning and unlearning, Mauricio returned to Baja to pour it all into Symmetria. And now? He’s earned a spot on the “Wineries/Winemakers To Watch” list—and deservedly so.
A Logo with a Story
Their name comes from the Greek word for “balance,” but with a Baja twist. Their wines are global in style, but proudly local in roots. And their logo? A hummingbird for Denise’s grandmother, and a deer for Mauricio’s father. Two symbols, branded on every barrel, that tell the story of family, nature, vision, and love.
Fancy Words and Ice Cubes
During our chat, they shared a tasting room story that still makes them laugh. A sommelier once said, with full flair, “This wine has notes of sotobosque.” We all cracked up. I chimed in with, “You mean like when people say ‘terruño’ instead of dirt?”
(Just so you know: sotobosque means forest undergrowth. Not a character in Star Wars.)
And if someone asks for ice in their wine? No scandal here. They just smile and say, “How many cubes would you like?” No snobbery. Just enjoyment.
Pairings, Myths, and Grapes with Personality
We asked what pairing the wine snobs might hate—but they secretly love. Their answer?
Sparkling wine with pork rinds. No shame. Just crunch and bubbles. And they’re clear on the order of things: food first, wine second.
Favorite grape to work with? Chenin Colombard.
Most rebellious? Zinfandel. “It’s wild,” they laugh. “But fun.”
And the best part of the process? Mauricio jokes: “Drinking it!”
But truthfully, they love every step. Like that time at Tre Galline, when they opened a ten-year-old bottle of their own and found it full of memories. For them, wine is a time capsule you can pour.
So how much of winemaking is magic, and how much is nature?
“95 to 99% is nature,” says Mauricio. “The rest? Just patience.”
Oh—and they’re also working on a Nebbiolo that sounds like it might steal the spotlight. But we’ll save that for our next visit.
The Road Ahead: Growing with Soul
When asked what’s next for Symmetria, Mauricio was clear:
“We want to grow—but with intention. We don’t want to be a massive winery. We want to stay soulful. If someone comes back in 20 years, they should feel exactly what they feel today.”
Denise added:
“And we want to keep learning. You never fully master wine. Each year teaches something new. We want to grow as a family and as a team.”
That kind of mindset? You can taste it. They don’t bottle just to sell. If a wine doesn’t live up to their standards—it doesn’t go out. Period.
Your Next Favorite Bottle
Here are a few bottles to keep an eye out for:
Eje – perfect for surviving awkward family dinners.
Luminaria Blanc de Noirs – already rocking 91 points in the Guía Peñín.
Lola – the hug-in-a-bottle you didn’t know you needed.
Wanna Try It?
📞 619 659 4707
📧 denise.g19@gmail.com
Visits are personal, small, and cozy—best for groups of up to 10. Bigger group? Let’s talk. And yes, they speak perfect English.
Spoiler alert: A Sauvignon Blanc is coming—and it’s shaping up to be as juicy as a harvest-day rumor.
Symmetria exports 70% of their sparkling wines to the U.S. (Arizona, California, Nevada, Minnesota…), but you can also order online through La Competencia Imports.
And if you happen to see a roadrunner on the way there… don’t ignore it. For Mauricio and Denise, it’s a sign that something good is quietly fermenting.
This Saturday, June 22, Donald Trump announced Operation Midnight Hammer—a U.S. airstrike targeting three key Iranian nuclear sites (Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan). Using stealth B‑2 bombers and Tomahawk missiles, the U.S. claimed to have “completely obliterated” them . Hours later, Iran answered. They launched dozens of ballistic missiles at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar—but no casualties were reported, thanks to prior evacuations and missile intercepts .
Trump then shocked everyone again by tweeting that Israel and Iran had agreed to a 12-day ceasefire, effective June 24—though neither side confirmed the deal . So is there peace in the Middle East? Officially, no. Tensions remain high. But suddenly, talks are back on the table.
Why Baja Should Care
You might think “So what? This is in the Middle East.” Not quite. Because San Diego, just north of Baja, hosts the largest U.S. military base in the region. That puts Baja in the splash zone—dangerous heat, shockwaves, and fallout could reach us if things get messy.
Enter NUKEMAP, an interactive simulator built by historian Alex Wellerstein . When we plugged in a 1.2 megaton blast over San Diego:
A 1.5-mile radius would see total destruction.
Thermal burns could reach 8 miles deep.
Windows and roofs might shatter up to 15 miles away, affecting Tijuana, Tecate and Mexicali.
Fallout could drift into Ensenada, depending on wind—which is unpredictable in June .
Bottom line? Baja could feel shockwaves, broken glass, and radiation exposure—though not immediate wreckage. That’s not fear-mongering. It’s just smart awareness.
A “Merciful” Pause?
After Iran’s missile response, Trump floated the idea of a ceasefire and credited both sides for showing restraint . He even called it the end to the “12‑day war.” But with no official confirmation yet, global leaders—including Qatar—are still urging caution and calling for de-escalation .
Meanwhile, oil prices soared and then dipped as markets reacted to both threats and hope . And the United Nations weighed in, warning that nuclear strikes on Iran could collapse the global non‑proliferation framework .
Baja’s Takeaway
What does this all mean for us in Baja California?
Risk is real—but remote. We’re not next door to nuclear bombs downrange, but if San Diego is a target, we could still be in the fallout path.
Stay aware. Track wind patterns, follow alerts, and brush up on basic emergency measures.
Diplomacy matters. This unpredictable “yes, no, maybe” peace moment is another reminder: global stability depends on choices made far beyond our border.
Clean air matters. Fallout dirties more than lungs. Expect monitoring, even if fallout never drifts south.
What Should You Do?
Keep an eye on local news and emergency alerts—especially if a crisis worsens.
Use online tools like NUKEMAP or government preparedness sites to stay informed visually and in plain language.
Remember: knowledge doesn’t spoil a BBQ, but staying oblivious might.
Final Word
Trump’s “peace bombshell” might signal the end of the mini war—and even hint at a chance for diplomatic reset. But until Israel and Iran sign on (officially), we’re hovering in limbo.
Meanwhile, Baja isn’t completely off the hook. San Diego’s proximity makes this more than a distant drama. So grab a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, enjoy the coast—but stay current, not clueless.
Because in a world brimming with uncertainty, the best defense might just be informed calm.
📸 Image: Visual simulation via NUKEMAP (courtesy Alex Wellerstein)
Running Toward Community: Rosarito’s Half Marathon Was More Than Just a Race
ROSARITO, B.C. — The streets of Rosarito were pounding with sneakers, sunscreen, and just enough sweat to earn those shiny finisher medals. The 2025 Powerade Rosarito Half Marathon and its 5K sidekick drew over 2,500 runners, turning a sunny coastal Sunday into a full-blown celebration of community, resilience, and movement.
Yes, it was hot. Yes, it was humid. And yes, some runners wished for a few more hydration points. But judging by the smiles (and the glorious sunburns), the event delivered more than just miles—it brought magic.
Winners, Records, and Local Heroes
Daniel “Pollito” Valdez flew past the finish line in 1:09:56, defending his 2024 title like a true Mexicali champ. On the women’s side, Natalie Mendoza dominated with a 1:18:54 finish, leaving no doubt about her podium position.
But hey, this wasn’t just for elite athletes. Hundreds came out to walk, jog, or run the 5K, proving that Rosarito’s race isn’t just a competition—it’s a celebration of movement in all its forms.
And speaking of everyday heroes, one of our very own—Alberto Rosas, Gringo Gazette’s loyal Punta Banda delivery agent and ad rep—tackled the half marathon like a pro. If you see him out on his route this week, give him a sweaty high-five or a heartfelt “¡Felicidades!”
Meet Alberto Rosas—our Punta Banda newspaper hero, sales agent by day, and now half marathon finisher. Yep, he delivers ads and miles!
Music, Medals, and Tactical Gear?
Yep, along the route there was music, cheers, and the occasional cowbell. But the post-run scene got a surprising twist: the Guardia Nacional set up an info booth, complete with tactical gear displays and flyers reminding everyone they’re working to improve public safety. Officers Urbida and Cecilia were on hand to answer questions and hand out pamphlets about how to report crime online—turns out, even runners like to stay informed.
National Guard reps Oficial Urbida and Cecilia brought the gear, the pamphlets, and the public safety vibes to Rosarito’s marathon scene.
One Gripe, Plenty of Praise
If there was one recurring complaint? Not quite enough water stations for the heat. But organizers from IMDER were all ears, promising to review the feedback for future editions.
That said, the rest was a hit: good vibes, solid logistics, community support, and plenty of medals to show off on social media.
🎤 Behind the Scenes, All Hands on Deck
Before the race kicked off, a brief ceremonial send-off was held at the iconic Rosarito Arch. Among those present were Mayor Rocio Adame; councilmembers Yoselin Peña, Ricardo Cabrales, and Luisa Vanessa Díaz; Citizen Security Secretary Héctor Manzo; COTUCO Rosarito President Leonardo Verdugo; Immujer Director Irami Cortez de los Ángeles; City Secretary José Luis Alcalá; and Elias Torres Balcázar, representing INDE BC. The event was organized by IMDER—the city’s Municipal Institute of Sports—which also ensured safety, hydration, and good vibes across the board. Between the runners, volunteers, medics, and cheering neighbors, Rosarito showed once again that when it comes to community spirit, it goes the full distance.
Is This Your Sign to Lace Up?
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or someone who considers walking to the fridge a sport, events like these show the power of coming together through movement. And with a 5K option on the table, there’s truly a spot for everyone.
If you ran the Rosarito half or the 5K, we want to hear from you! Tag us, send photos, or just brag a little. And if you didn’t run—well, there’s always next year.
📝 Reporting by GGNorth’s running shoes and not-so-fresh legs
📸 Got race pics? Send them in and we’ll feature a few!
💬 Want more race or community fitness coverage? Let us know!
June in Baja has been one wild ride. Foggy coastlines one minute, triple-digit inland heat the next. Here’s a clear, fun breakdown of what’s driving these swings—and what they spell for us in Baja.
Fog at Dawn, Sunshine by Noon
Thanks to the cold California Current, coastal towns like Ensenada and Rosarito are waking up to classic “June Gloom.” Thick marine fog envelopes the coast overnight, breaking up by afternoon. Mornings often feel brisk—perfect for a hoodie—but those clouds usually vanish by 10 a.m. .
Inland Heatwave: When the Sun Turns Up
Step inland, and things get sweaty fast. Places like Mexicali are hitting mid-90s to over 100°F. That’s a result of a shrinking marine layer and a high-pressure ridge pushing hot air into the valleys. NOAA data shows this is part of a wider trend of early-season heatwave conditions from mid-June to July .
Why Climate Change Matters
It’s no coincidence. Scientists warn global warming is raising these extremes—boosting inland max temps and intensifying coastal fog layers. Recent Mexican heatwaves were 1.5 °C hotter and 35–200 times more likely due to climate change .
Pacific Storms Stirring the Pot
June 2025 isn’t your usual early season. Tropical Storms Barbara and Cosme spun up near Mexico between June 8–11—right on Baja’s doorstep—causing high surf and choppy seas . Then came Hurricane Erick, the earliest major hurricane on record to make landfall—in Southwestern Mexico—peaking as a Category 4, then walloping Oaxaca by June 19 .
Though Erick made no direct landfall in Baja, it stirred splashes and moisture offshore—and hinted at a stormier season ahead .
A March Cold Front Preps June
Flashback to March: Two strong cold fronts slammed Baja, whipping up 50–70 km/h winds and rough seas, per CONAGUA . Those storms kick-started a shift in the air column, lowering humidity inland and paving the way for heat domes later. Combine that with early tropical systems, and you get the perfect storm of temperature swings.
🧭 What This Means for You
Coastal Life
Inland Living
Bring a sweater—June fog is no joke.
Avoid midday sun—it’s scorch city.
Boaters: expect seas up to 3 m; check CONAGUA charts.
Stay hydrated—temps over 45 °C reported in parts.
Fog may slow traffic, but no red alerts so far.
Watch for heat advisories—but rainfall’s still low.
Weather Tips for Surviving Baja’s Wild June
Stay coastal-ready:
🌫 Pack layers if you’re heading to the coast. Fog can make mornings chilly and damp.
🚤 Boaters should check wave forecasts daily. Swells are reaching up to 3 meters—CONAGUA reports are your best friend.
☁ Drive carefully in fog—visibility can drop fast.
Beat the inland heat:
🧴 Hydrate like it’s your job.
🧢 Wear breathable clothes and stay indoors between noon and 4 p.m.
🌡️ Don’t leave pets or groceries in the car—even for a few minutes.
Track the skies:
Want a visual weather breakdown? We recommend Windy.com — it offers dynamic maps with wind, heat, pressure, and cloud coverage across Baja in real time.
✅ Final Take
This June in Baja proves it’s weather on steroids:
Cold Pacific currents bringing coastal chill.
Severe inland heatwaves under high-pressure ridges.
Early tropical storms and hurricanes stirring seas and signals of an active season.
The winds of change are blowing through Baja’s security forces. On Monday, June 16, 2025, General Laureano Carrillo Rodríguez, head of the Baja California Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSCBC), rolled out the latest updates on how the state plans to tackle crime with structure, staff, and strategy.
This isn’t just a shuffle of command—it’s a full-system overhaul, anchored in the National Security Strategy’s four federal pillars and backed by a homegrown plan built around 31 actions, 32 goals, and a dozen projects.
The Four Federal Pillars, Baja Style
General Carrillo—who also coordinates the national plan in Baja—outlined the core priorities:
Address the root causes of crime
Strengthen the National Guard
Expand intelligence and investigations
Boost coordination with federal, state, and municipal agencies
Locally, Baja’s strategy focuses heavily on prevention, and from January to June 2025 alone, the state reached over 232,000 residents through school programs, youth outreach, anti-addiction campaigns, and more.
Protecting Communities: Prevention in Action
The Violeta System, designed to protect women and minors, is now active.
A weapons exchange program destroyed 314 guns, 956 magazines, 19,275 rounds of ammunition, and 5,407 explosives—mostly in Tijuana and Mexicali.
Nine social programs were implemented to prevent crime across schools, neighborhoods, and public spaces.
Staffing, Oversight, and Fast Response
270 new positions are opening in the Fuerza Estatal de Seguridad Ciudadana (FESC).
23 administrative complaints are currently under review.
A new rapid-response team, FERI, is operational.
Cross-border intelligence collaboration is underway—but no specific international targets have been named. No mention of “Caza Gringos,” but we’ll keep our ears up.
Who’s on Patrol, and Where?
The state currently has 17,115 officersdeployed across seven municipalities:
Mexicali (est. 1915)
Tijuana (1953)
Ensenada (1953)
Tecate (1953)
Playas de Rosarito (1995)
San Quintín (2020)
San Felipe (2022)
Four new bases are in the works: Valle de Guadalupe (Ensenada), La Rumorosa (Tecate), San Felipe, and San Quintín—bringing coverage to areas vital for tourism, agriculture, and Baja’s growing wine country.
Who’s in Charge Now?
Carrillo introduced a new leadership team:
Cecilia González Acero, Undersecretary of Security
Álvaro Munguía Martínez, Director of Administration
Jorge Medina, General Coordinator of Operations
Oziel Arturo García Hernández, Director of FESC …along with regional leaders for Ensenada, Mexicali, and Tijuana, intelligence, vehicle fleets, and human resources.
So, What’s in It for Baja?
While it’s too early to know how much safer Baja will feel, these shifts show a real attempt to modernize and tighten security—especially in areas that matter to residents and visitors alike. With new resources, proactive staffing, and a broader geographic focus, the hope is that this won’t just be a rebrand—it’ll be a reset.
Have you noticed any changes in your city? Are these measures hitting the mark, or just moving the pieces around?
Trump Cancels First Sheinbaum Sit-Down, But Mexico Keeps Its Cool
So… the big handshake between U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexico’s freshly minted leader, Claudia Sheinbaum? Didn’t happen.
The plan was simple: meet during the G7 summit in Canada (June 15–17) to talk shop—tariffs, migration, cross-border headaches. But Trump pulled a fast one and skipped town early, citing “pressing global tensions” (a.k.a. the whole Israel-Iran situation). Sheinbaum? She stayed, smiled, and made Mexico look like the grown-up in the room.
No Food or Wine, Just Talk (on the Phone)
Even though the long-awaited in-person meeting fizzled, both leaders got on the phone. Trump called it “a very good call,” which, for him, is practically a standing ovation. Topics? Migration, border security, tariffs, remittances, and even cartel crackdowns. Just your usual cross-border dinner conversation—minus the dinner.
This would’ve been their first real-life encounter since Sheinbaum took office in October 2024, making it a missed opportunity to shift gears on binational policies that affect the everyday lives of folks in Baja—especially those exporting to or working with U.S. businesses.
Sheinbaum Plays the Diplomatic Card
While Trump packed his bags, Sheinbaum stayed put, attending G7 meetings alongside other world leaders, including Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney. She even gave him a soccer ball handmade by Wixárika artisans—because nothing says diplomacy like a culturally crafted futbol.
The summit also included talks with officials from India, Brazil, South Korea, Australia, and reps from the UN and World Bank. Not bad for a debut on the global stage.
#Presidenta Claudia Sheinbaum joins the G7 summit alongside invited nations—South Africa, Brazil, South Korea, India, Australia, and representatives from the UN and World Bank.
“No a la violencia”
Back home, Sheinbaum had to shut down claims from the U.S. Homeland Security secretary, who wrongly said she encouraged violent protests in L.A. Her response? A firm, “Nope.” Sheinbaum released a public video reinforcing that Mexico condemns violence—always has, always will.
She doubled down on her real message: protecting honest, hard-working Mexicans abroad and continuing diplomatic work “from a place of respect.” Classy move, señora presidenta.
What This Means for Baja
So why should folks in Baja California care? Because any disruption in tariff talks, migration policy, or border logistics hits home—hard.
Whether you’re exporting seafood, wine, or high-tech aerospace parts (hey, Baja!), these political dance steps influence how fast and how fairly your products cross into the U.S. Delays in decision-making mean uncertainty for Baja’s economy.
Plus, with Sheinbaum holding her ground at the G7, Baja gets to keep its reputation as part of a country that shows up, keeps calm, and continues to push for respectful partnerships.
Diplomatic Scorecard
Trump: Left early.
Sheinbaum: Stayed, showed leadership, handed out artisan soccer balls, and called for dialogue.
Baja: Still waiting for concrete updates—but feeling cautiously optimistic.
We’re not picking sides. We’re just saying: showing up matters. And for Baja businesses watching every tariff headline and border policy shift, it’s worth paying attention to who’s at the table—and who ducks out early.
📸 Photo: Courtesy of Presidencia de México
🎁 Bonus: Want to see that artisan soccer ball? Check out our Instagram @gringogazette_north for a close-up.
🍷 Because it’s diplomacy with style, we suggest enjoying this story with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc —Symmetria, if you can get it.
Paris might be famous for love and croissants, but this week, it’s full of wings, rockets, and investment deals. That’s because the Paris Air Show 2025 is in full swing—and Ensenada showed up ready to fly.
Mexico’s delegation kicked things off with a cozy welcome from the Ambassador of Mexico in France, the Honorable Blanca Elena Jiménez Cisneros. Among the guests was Mario A. Peregrina, president of Ensenada EDC, there to share Baja’s aerospace potential with the world.
Not Just Another Booth at a Fancy Expo
Peregrina and the team aren’t in Paris just to smile for photos. On Day 1, they met with Céline Carlot of Nord France Invest to talk business. Both sides explored ways to strengthen cooperation between France and Baja California.
Why? Because Ensenada isn’t just sun and seafood. It’s rapidly growing into a serious contender for aerospace manufacturing, nearshoring, and tech expansion. Its proximity to the U.S., skilled workforce, and industrial parks make it a perfect fit for companies looking to move closer to home.
#Photo courtesy of Ensenada EDC / Comisión de Promoción Económica de Ensenada.
What’s in It for Ensenada?
This isn’t just another ribbon-cutting. Events like the Paris Air Show connect real opportunities to local talent and companies. When Peregrina shakes hands in France, he’s opening doors for Ensenada engineers, students, and businesses.
Plus, as companies rethink long supply chains, Baja becomes even more attractive. With support from ProBaja Trade & Investment, the region is selling more than location—it’s offering a vision.
Where to Catch the Action?
You can find Ensenada EDC at the Mexican Pavilion – Hall 3, Booth F136 through June 25. The booth highlights Baja California’s top investment projects, and yes—there’s space to talk business over wine.
Let’s Talk Benefits (And It’s Not Just for France)
So what’s the big deal? For starters, Baja’s aerospace sector could see more jobs, more infrastructure, and more partnerships. Local universities and tech centers may even attract new research and training programs.
More investment means stronger communities, better roads, and—let’s be honest—more reasons for your teenager to stay in school and become an engineer.
Say Bonjour to Baja
It’s not every day that Ensenada makes headlines in Paris. But here we are. Thanks to solid preparation and some high-level charm, Baja’s making waves in the sky.
📍 Event: Paris Air Show 2025
📅 Dates: June 16–25
📌 Find Ensenada: Hall 3, Booth F136 – Mexican Pavilion
✈️ Contact: president@ensenadaedc.org
So, next time someone tells you Baja’s just beaches and tacos, remind them: we also build things that fly.
Baja Watches Closely as U.S. Migrant Protests Escalate
Things have been heating up across the border, and we’re not talking about the weather.
This week, hundreds of migrants took to the streets in Los Angeles, blocking key highways and gathering in growing numbers to demand better conditions and protections under U.S. law. The protests—sometimes peaceful, sometimes chaotic—come amid rising tensions over immigration policies and a wave of deportations carried out in recent days.
📷 Photo credit: Reddit user u/TriggerHappyPins, r/pics — “Los Angeles ICE Protest” (Original Content, posted 3 days ago)
The spark? A federal crackdown targeting undocumented workers, which escalated earlier this month with aggressive detentions and increased ICE presence in cities like Los Angeles, El Paso, and even Chicago.
But the moment that really turned up the heat was a statement from U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security accusing Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, of encouraging violent protests on American soil.
The reaction was swift—and firm.
Mexico Responds with Calm but Conviction
On Tuesday, President Sheinbaum took to social media to reject the claim, calling it “absolutely false.” Her message: “We’ve always opposed violence, especially now that I carry this responsibility.”
The President pointed to her statement from the previous day, where she clearly condemned the use of violence in any protest—while emphasizing Mexico’s ongoing commitment to protect the rights and dignity of its citizens abroad.
“We will always stand by honest, hardworking Mexicans who contribute to both economies,” Sheinbaum said. “Dialogue and respect are the only paths forward.”
Her tone was diplomatic, but the message was clear: don’t blame Mexico for unrest caused by U.S. internal policy shifts.
So What’s Really Going On?
Over the past few days, groups of migrant workers—many of them with temporary status or awaiting asylum—have been gathering at sites in Los Angeles, including near Union Station and the I-5 freeway. Their demands? A halt to detentions, an end to sudden relocations, and clearer pathways to legal residence.
While a majority of the protests have remained peaceful, a few major incidents have triggered concern—including scuffles with law enforcement and vandalism of government property.
The White House has remained largely silent, though state and local leaders in California have urged for calm and respect on all sides.
Baja California Feels the Ripples
Here in Baja, the reactions are mixed—but attentive.
While the protests are physically happening north of the border, their emotional impact is felt across towns like Tijuana, Mexicali, and Ensenada, where migrant communities are closely tied to relatives and employers in the U.S.
Local officials are monitoring the situation, especially given the steady increase of deported individuals arriving daily through the Tijuana-San Diego crossing. Shelters in Tijuana have already reported being over capacity as they receive returning migrants with little notice.
It’s also affecting the mood. Many Baja residents with family in the U.S. are nervous about their loved ones’ safety—or the possibility of job losses if immigrant labor continues to be criminalized or displaced.
A Caution for the Coast: Don’t Cross Lines You Can’t Swim Back From
The recent tension also puts added pressure on those considering heading north. Humanitarian advocates in Baja are urging would-be migrants to think twice, reminding them that the U.S. remains politically volatile on immigration—and that the risks are real.
In the meantime, President Sheinbaum’s message stands: Mexico won’t be dragged into political theater. It will advocate for the safety, rights, and dignity of its people, while calling for cooperation—not confrontation.
Final Thought: Can Calm Prevail Across the Border?
This isn’t just a political scuffle. It’s about people—hardworking, hopeful, and human. Mexico’s message to the world? Let’s argue policies, not humanity.
And here in Baja, we’re watching closely. Because what happens there doesn’t just echo—it lands right in our backyard.
📝 Note developed by the GGNorth editorial team
🎥 Translated by GGNorth | Original: Gobierno de México
