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Articles, Breaking News

Get Your Holiday Spirit On at the Sassy Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair!

Mark your calendars! The Sassy Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair is back, bringing a festive day of creativity, music, and delicious food to Hacienda 43 on Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This beloved event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, whether you’re on the hunt for unique gifts, a fan of live music, or just looking to savor some amazing food.

The day kicks off with Sweet Sixx, blending bohemian blues, reggae, swing, and Latin beats to set the vibe. Then, prepare to be captivated by Derek Wille, an internationally acclaimed musician, producer, and composer whose emotionally rich performances are unforgettable. Finally, soak in the artistry of José Enrique Tovar, a Venezuelan virtuoso with a stunning repertoire, including his “Beatles Tribute.” Proceeds from José’s tips directly support his Academy of Young Soloists in San Felipe, where he teaches music to children for free.

Sassy Fine Art Festival back in June 2024

The fair features 35 talented artists and crafters, offering everything from hand-painted jean jackets by Emma Hernandez to stunning mosaic tile pieces by Mexicali artisans Rubi Guzman and Yaneth Montiel. Returning favorites like Narda Velasco and Marlen Castor will also showcase their exceptional works. Don’t forget to stop by the Facebook page “Sassy Events” to preview the artists and grab a program at the event (while supplies last).

As if the art and music weren’t enough, Chef Santos and his team are serving an all-you-can-eat Italian buffet for just 250 pesos, featuring dishes like Chicken Cordon Bleu, Fettuccini Alfredo, and decadent desserts.

Parking has been expanded this year, making it even easier to enjoy the festivities. Come for the art, stay for the music, and leave with a full stomach and holiday cheer! See you at Hacienda 43!

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 Articles, Breaking News, Real Estate, Rosarito, Tijuana

Baja’s New Luxury Towers “The Wavve” Break Ground

The Wavve, a new luxury residential project by Estrategia Urbana, has officially begun construction on the scenic toll road to Rosarito.

Located in Punta Bandera, at kilometer 18 of the coastal highway, The Wavve will feature two towers, each with 150 apartments offering stunning panoramic views.

Today, Thursday, the ceremonial first stone was placed, with company executives from Estrategia Urbana, Bustamante Realty Group, local officials, and invited guests in attendance.

Notable figures at the event included Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, Baja California’s Secretary of Infrastructure; Mónica Vega Aguirre, Secretary of Environment; Miguel Aguíñiga, Secretary of Tourism; and Tijuana’s Secretary of Urban Mobility, María del Pilar Vázquez, among others.

Leading the ceremony were Jonathan Cohen, CEO of Estrategia Urbana, and Moises Zapan, the company’s CCO. They expressed their gratitude to local authorities, their clients, and everyone who contributed to the company’s establishment in Baja California. Special thanks went to the construction team working on The Wavve.

Héctor Bustamante, the director of the company managing the sales, announced that 60% of the units have already been sold.

Mónica Vega highlighted the project’s environmental efforts, which include a water treatment plant and solar panels for common areas, showcasing the developer’s commitment to sustainability.

With an investment of nearly 1.5 billion pesos, The Wavve is expected to generate over 450 jobs. According to Jonathan Cohen, this is just the first of several projects planned for Baja California by Estrategia Urbana, a company with over 25 years of experience and more than 70 projects completed in Mexico and the U.S.

More information on the project can be found at www.thewavvebaja.com

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 Articles, Baja Norte

Women Take Charge at All Levels of Government

Move over boys, there’s a new leadership trend sweeping Baja California—one led predominantly by women, and it’s a major shift. If you blinked, you might’ve missed the news: women are now leading at nearly all levels of government in our beloved Baja. It’s like the rest of Mexico finally got the memo that Baja’s ladies have been calling the shots at home long enough—now they’re officially taking the reins in city halls and beyond, too.

Rosarito’s got itself a new boss lady: Rocio Adame, stepping in as mayor and keeping the coastal vibes positive while showing the boys how it’s done. Not to be outdone, Ensenada welcomes Claudia Agaton as the new mayor—yes, the same Ensenada that’s known for its expansive coastline, fine wine, and, apparently, a no-nonsense approach to governance.

Moving further down to the beautiful desert city of Mexicali, Alicia Bustamante is ready to bring some much-needed feminine finesse. And over in San Quintin, we have Miriam Cano, who’s got her sleeves rolled up to take on whatever challenges the town throws her way.

If you’re starting to see a pattern here, you’re right. This new wave of leadership isn’t just a coincidence—it’s a carefully orchestrated revolution by the Morena party, who has seemingly decided that women’s time to lead has arrived. With Marina del Pilar already paving the way as the Governor of Baja California for three years now, and the new President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, stepping into office, it’s safe to say that Mexico’s political landscape is getting a much-needed dose of diversity and representation at every level.

Claudia Sheinbaum’s rise to the presidency is a historic moment—not just for Baja California, but for all of Mexico. As the first woman elected as President of Mexico, Sheinbaum brings a wealth of experience from her time as the Mayor of Mexico City, where she implemented groundbreaking social programs, strengthened environmental policies, and tackled the challenges of urban insecurity head-on. While she has made it clear that she intends to continue many of the initiatives started by her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), her leadership offers a fresh perspective, especially as she builds on these foundations with her own approach and ideas.

Of course, let’s not forget our lone cowboys still holding it down. San Felipe’s José Luis Dagnino, Tecate’s Román Cota, and Tijuana’s Ismael Burgueño are the exceptions to the all-woman lineup—but they, too, carry the Morena banner. We’ll see if they can keep up with the ladies or if they’ll just be taking notes.

Now, let’s not get too ahead of ourselves; nobody’s saying this guarantees utopia overnight. Politics, after all, is a complex beast. But the Morena party has clearly decided it’s time for a different approach. And given the history of male-dominated leadership in Mexico, it’s hard not to feel a little bit hopeful. A little bit curious. Maybe even a little bit excited.

After all, there’s something undeniably refreshing about seeing Baja’s leadership reflect the women who’ve long been its backbone—whether it’s managing businesses, raising families, or, as of now, governing municipalities. This isn’t just about representation—it’s about tapping into a wealth of talent and perspective that’s been long overlooked in political spaces. And with Claudia Sheinbaum at the helm of the nation, it’s also about demonstrating that leadership isn’t a man’s game anymore.

Sheinbaum’s presidency also brings hope for tackling some of Baja’s ongoing issues. Baja’s security situation has been, shall we say, a bit of a rollercoaster. With this new wave of leadership—women who are known for their pragmatism, empathy, and strong will—perhaps we can finally start seeing meaningful, lasting improvements that make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. Sheinbaum’s emphasis on community-oriented security measures and her previous work in reducing crime rates in Mexico City might just be what Baja needs to see more stability and safety at the local level.

So what does this mean for Baja? Hopefully, better policies for families, more community-focused initiatives, and an approach to leadership that values collaboration over conflict. And let’s be real—one thing we’re all hoping for is better security across the board. With leaders like Marina del Pilar and Claudia Sheinbaum setting the tone, we have reason to believe that a different kind of politics—one that focuses on the well-being of every citizen—might just be possible.

But let’s not forget—these women aren’t just there to play nice. They’re tough, they’re determined, and they’re ready to make waves.

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 Articles

Earthquakes Are Shaking It Up: But Hey, We’re Still Here!

If you’ve felt a little extra rumble under your flip-flops lately, it’s not just your margaritas going straight to your head. Ensenada’s been getting a bit of a shake-up this past week, with a series of minor earthquakes that have been giving us all a gentle reminder of just how lively Mother Nature can be. No need to panic, though—these aren’t the kind of quakes that make you run for the nearest doorway. More like a polite nudge than a hard shove. Let’s take a look at what’s been going on and why we should be… not too worried, but definitely aware. 

In the last seven days, Ensenada has experienced a series of mini-tremors—think of them as nature’s gentle “how-do-you-dos.” We’ve had a 2.0, a 2.2, and a 2.3 magnitude twist, culminating in a more respectable 2.9 magnitude. It’s like Mother Earth is stretching her legs and letting out a yawn, without actually getting out of bed. Not exactly headline material for a blockbuster disaster movie, but enough to remind us we’re living on one lively tectonic spot.  

And just when Ensenada thought it was the star of the show, Baja California Sur chimed in with a 4.0 magnitude quake. That one was strong enough to rattle a few windows and maybe send some taco stands into a temporary state of distress—but fear not, all’s well in Baja. 

Why Is This Happening? 

Let’s talk facts. The Baja California Peninsula is essentially sitting on the boundary of two tectonic plates—the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. Every so often, these plates decide to shift a little, and when they do, we get to enjoy these “dance moves” from the comfort of our homes. Nothing major, just tectonic plates working out their differences. It’s kind of like when your upstairs neighbors decide to rearrange their furniture at 2 a.m.—annoying, but harmless. 

Scientists have reassured us that these smaller quakes are actually pretty normal. According to CICESE (Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada), these small tremors are a regular part of life here, a way for the Earth to release tension gradually. It’s like nature’s version of a massage to avoid a stiff back—better the occasional twitch than one big cramp, right? 

For those of you new to Baja and wondering if you need to stock up on canned beans and bottled water, take a deep breath. These mini-earthquakes are not a cause for alarm. Think of them as the Earth’s way of reminding us that she’s still in charge—just a soft poke in the ribs, not a knockout punch. You might feel a little wobble, but unless it’s enough to make you spill your morning coffee, there’s no reason to lose any sleep over it.  

Besides, it gives us all a great excuse to swap stories about “that one time I felt the earth move”—romantic implications entirely optional. 

While earthquakes are an inevitable part of living in a tectonically active area, they also offer us an opportunity to engage with each other. If the ground’s gonna move, maybe our hearts and minds should too.  

Let’s turn these quakes into conversations. Ever felt an earthquake and thought, “Wow, that was kinda cool?” Or maybe you’ve been startled awake, only to realize it was just another “hello” from below. Why not share your story? Whether you’ve been here for years or just arrived, we’d love to hear your experiences. It might help ease someone else’s anxiety, and hey, it’s not every day you get to share a literal earth-shaking event. 

What To Do Next Time 

Now, just because we’re laughing about these tiny tremors doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be prepared. If you’re feeling these shakes, it’s always a good idea to have a little plan in place, just in case Mother Nature decides to kick things up a notch. A flashlight, a stash of bottled water, and a sense of humor are always good things to have around. You know the drill—don’t panic, drop to the ground, and hold on.  

The good news is that for most of us, the worst we’ve experienced is a few jittery nerves and maybe a plant falling off a shelf. No bad news here, just a reminder that the ground beneath our feet is never completely still. 

So, folks, let’s take this as a reminder: we’re living in a beautiful, wild, and occasionally unpredictable place. The ground might shake, the tide might rise, but we’re all in this together. Let’s keep things light-hearted, stay informed, and make sure we’ve got each other’s backs.  

If you’ve got a funny earthquake story, a survival tip, or just a thought on how these shakes make you feel, we’d love for you to share. Because in Baja, we’re all about community, a little bit of fun, and keeping things as steady as possible—even when the Earth itself doesn’t. 

Let’s keep laughing, keep talking, and keep enjoying life here in this sometimes shaky, always amazing corner of the world.

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 Articles, Arts & Literature, Breaking News, Ensenada

Valle de Guadalupe Film Festival to Honor Mexican Filmmaker Alfonso Arau

Lights, camera, action! The first edition of the Valle de Guadalupe Film Festival is kicking off with a well-deserved tribute to renowned Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Arau. Known for directing hits like A Walk in the Clouds (starring Keanu Reeves), Zapata: The Dream of a Hero, and the iconic Like Water for Chocolate, Arau has made a lasting impact on Mexican cinema. This special homage will take place on Friday, September 20, at 5:30 PM at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino. 

Arau also holds the unique distinction of being the first to direct famed American director Woody Allen in the film Picking Up the Pieces. Intrigued?

You can learn more fascinating details like this at the film discussion led by critic Ernesto Diezmartínez, starting at 6:00 PM right after the tribute. Following this, the visual artist Julio Orozco will unveil his exhibition “Halls of the Past, Projections of the Future” at 7:00 PM.

To round off the festival’s opening day, there will be a concert of “Great Works of the Seventh Art” performed by the Wind Quintet of the Baja California Orchestra at 8:30 PM. And if that’s not enough, stick around for the video mapping presentation “Libélula” at 10:00 PM.

Best of all? Admission to all these activities is free! The festivities start on Friday, September 20, at 5:30 PM at the Museo de la Vid y el Vino in Valle de Guadalupe. The museum is located at Carr. Fed. Tecate-Ensenada Km 81.3371 Fracc. Norte, 22750 Francisco Zarco, B.C.

For the full festival program, visit: https://festivaldecinevalleguadalupe.com

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 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, Events

The 2nd Baja Women’s Conference is Here to Save Your Sanity: Ready to Recharge?

Ladies of Baja, it’s time to dust off your best yoga pants and get ready for a day that’s all about you—no kids, no partners, no to-do lists. Just you, a bunch of like-minded women, and an agenda that’s all about recharging those life batteries. 

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 21st, because from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is taking over CEART in Rosarito. Think of it as a spa day for the soul, but with more chakras, a splash of creativity, and a side of salsa—yes, dancing, not the dip.

This isn’t your average conference where you nod off after too much coffee. No, this is a day designed to make you feel like the rockstar you are. Whether you’re looking to rediscover your creative side, sort out your chakras, or just want to have a comfortable chat about sex (because, why not?), there’s something here for everyone.

Sessions will be offered in English, Spanish, and even a bit of Spanglish because we know you’ve got that bilingual game down. Here’s just a taste of what’s on the menu:

Bilingual Sessions: Start your day with Gloria Snyder’s “Women’s Circle,” where you’ll find and strengthen your voice in life, speech, and even song with Carol Clary’s “Find and Strengthen Your Voice in Life, Speech, and Song.” If you’re in need of some serious zen, don’t miss Rose Lee’s “Chakras, Reiki, Singing Bowls.”

English Sessions: Things get spicy with Sherri Jaye’s “A Comfortable Chat on Sex,” where nothing’s off-limits. On the more holistic side, Winifred Morice will dive into “Nutrition: Wellness is an Inside Job,” while Sue McDevitt explores the “Role of Creativity in Self Care.”

For those of you who’ve been carrying the weight of the world, Alice Vernoux’s “Female Myth of Servitude: Reframing the Caretaker Role” is a must-attend. Heal through art with Shauna Robeson’s “Healing Art Therapy,” and learn how to stock a pantry that would make any nutritionist proud with Karen Schuppert’s “Building a Healthy Pantry.” 

If you’ve got some thoughts about your end-of-life plans but haven’t quite put them on paper, Marti and Karri Benjamin will guide you through “Making Your End-of-Life Wishes Known.”  Stress got you down? Maria Denzin will help you balance it all out in “Stress and Creating Balance.” Suzanne Mulroy takes a deep dive into what it means to be truly healthy in “Rethinking Dis-ease and What it Means to Be Healthy.” Marti Benjamin returns with “Flourish: The Science of Well-being,” and if you’ve got some old wounds that need tending, Elizabeth Bello’s “Transforming Trauma to Passion” will show you how to turn that pain into power.

And let’s not forget the often-ignored but totally important topic of menopause and andropause—Dr. Gloria Godinez has you covered in “Menopause and Andropause.”

Spanish Sessions: For our Spanish-speaking sisters, Dra. Gloria Godinez will also be discussing “Entendiendo la Menopausia y la Andropausia,” while Dra. Neblina Ninel Vega Salazar will explore “La Otra Cara de la Depresión.” If you’ve been carrying childhood baggage, Lic. Claudia Araujo’s “Sanando a Tu Niña Interior” is where you need to be. Creativity doesn’t just have to be in English—Sue McDevitt’s “El Papel de la Creatividad en el Autocuidado” will be offered en español as well. 

Gloria Snyder returns with “El Poder de tu Palabra,” a session that will have you owning your voice in no time. And for those looking to reclaim their power, Dra. Elvia Moreno Berry’s “Mujeres y Empoderamiento” and Nina Raffaele Aponte’s “Empoderamiento de la Nutrición Holística” will be essential stops on your conference journey.

But wait, there’s more! The day wraps up with a salsa dancing lesson from the fabulous Gabriela López Arnaut. So, not only will you leave with a recharged mind and spirit, but you’ll also have some new moves to show off at your next fiesta.

Why Should You Care? 

Let’s be real. Life gets hectic. Between work, family, and the occasional meltdown over where to put the avocado toast on the food pyramid, we all need a day to step back and focus on number one: YOU. The Baja Women’s Conference is your golden ticket to do just that. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, motivated, and maybe even a little bit wiser—or at least with a better pantry.

And hey, it’s not just about the sessions. It’s about connecting with other women who get it, who’ve been there, done that, and might even have the T-shirt. This is your tribe, and they’re waiting to meet you.

Tickets are going fast (because who wouldn’t want in on this?), so grab yours online for $65.00. If you’re more of a last-minute planner, they’re $75.00 at the door. Head over to Baja Women’s Conference Website for all the details, session info, and to snag your ticket before they’re gone.

And let’s not forget to give a shoutout to the conference’s advertising sponsor, The Shack Sports Bar and Grill, because nothing says “women’s empowerment” like knowing where to grab a cold one after a day of self-care.

So, whether you’re looking to strengthen your voice, balance your chakras, or just have a good laugh while learning a thing or two, the Second Baja Women’s Conference is where you need to be. This isn’t just an event—it’s an investment in yourself. And let’s face it, you’re worth it.

Don’t miss out on this chance to recharge, refocus, and maybe even learn how to dance like nobody’s watching (but if they are, you’ll be ready). See you there, chicas!

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 Articles, Baja Norte, Events

Get Ready for “El Grito”! Mexico’s Independence Day in Baja

It’s that time of year again—when the air is filled with the smell of tacos, the crackle of fireworks, and the undeniable urge to shout “¡Viva México!” at the top of your lungs. Yes, we’re talking about Mexico’s Independence Day! And this isn’t just your regular run-of-the-mill, let’s-light-a-sparkler type of celebration. No, folks, this is big. Bigger than your neighbor’s oversized sombrero, and possibly louder too (Los Ángeles Azules, anyone?).

So, What’s the Big Deal About September 16th?

Let’s clear this up. September 16th marks Mexico’s official Independence Day. If you thought Cinco de Mayo was the big one, well, you’ve probably spent too much time at tourist bars. Independence Day is when Mexico celebrates breaking free from Spanish rule—think of it as the country’s 4th of July but with way more spice. This year’s festivities are packing a punch across Baja, and you’re definitely going to want to be part of it. And lucky for you, there’s no shortage of events to choose from.

The Grito: Not Just Yelling—It’s Patriotic

First things first: the “Grito de Independencia.” If you’re new to the scene, here’s the deal. It all goes down the night of September 15th when local officials (in outfits that put Uncle Sam to shame) step out onto balconies and reenact the legendary call to arms, originally screamed by priest Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. Thousands gather in town squares, and once the cry is done, the party kicks off. Think of it like when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, but instead of confetti, there are churros.

Baja’s Events—Where to Be and Why

Tijuana: Tijuana is pulling out all the stops this year with Sonora Dinamita leading the celebrations. The event kicks off at 6:00 PM at the Glorieta del Monumento a Miguel Hidalgo, and let’s just say, if you’re not dancing, you’re doing it wrong. With music that’ll have everyone moving, and fireworks lighting up the sky, it’s a fiesta you won’t want to miss.

Rosarito: For those in Rosarito, the Palacio Municipal will host a lively verbena popular starting at 6:00 PM. Expect delicious Mexican street food, traditional crafts, and artisanal goods. Live music will start at 7:00 PM, keeping the energy high until the Grito at 10:00 PM, delivered by the mayor herself. The festivities continue with music until midnight, ensuring a night filled with joy and community spirit.

Ensenada: If you’re in Ensenada, get ready for a traditional Mexican fiesta at the Explanada del DIF Municipal. There’s no big-name performance this year, but the night will be filled with the authentic spirit of Mexico: live music, dance performances, and, of course, delicious street food at 6:00 pm. So, while you may not have Sonora Dinamita to groove to, the atmosphere will more than make up for it with a strong focus on cultural pride and community spirit.

Mexicali: Over in Mexicali, the party’s getting kicked up a notch with Los Ángeles Azules taking over at 11:00 PM. The Grito will be followed by a massive fireworks show, tons of food stands (you’ll want to visit at least twice), and a crowd that’s as lively as the tacos are spicy. If you’re up for a dance marathon under the Baja sky, Mexicali is the place to be.

Now, before you head out to any of these events, here are a few tips to make sure you’re fiesta-ready:

– Wear something green, white, or red. Yes, you’ll feel like you’re auditioning for a Mexican flag-themed pageant, but it’s all in good fun.

– Get your grito voice ready. Whether you’re shouting “¡Viva México!” or something that sort of sounds like it, volume matters. So don’t hold back.

– Pace your taco intake or pozole, tamales chile en nogada, tinga (Almost all mexican plates you can imagine together) . We get it. The sight of freshly made tacos al pastor can make anyone weak at the knees. But if you’re planning to make it through the night, a slow and steady approach will serve you well. Trust us, you don’t want to tap out before the fireworks.

You might be wondering, “Why should I get involved?” Well, aside from the fact that it’s a blast, celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day is a way to connect with the local community. Whether you’ve lived in Baja for years or just touched down last week, this is a moment where everyone comes together, united by good food, great music, and, of course, the love of tequila.

Besides, who doesn’t love a good excuse to party? You can always tell your friends back home that you’re “immersing yourself in the local culture.” You might even learn a thing or two about Mexican history between cumbia beats. But mostly, you’ll leave with a full stomach, new friends, and a head full of fireworks.

So put on your best sombrero, grab your friends, and get ready for a night filled with fireworks, fun, and lots of gritos. ¡Viva México, indeed! 

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 Articles, Breaking News, Wine

UABC Announces the 2024 Mexico International Wine Competition

The Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC), through its School of Enology and Gastronomy, has officially announced the 2024 edition of the Mexico International Wine Competition (MIWC). The event will take place on October 29 and 30, 2024, at the Department of Informatics and Libraries on the UABC Ensenada campus.

The MIWC is set to bring together top-tier wines from around the world, where they will be evaluated by a specialized jury. The competition aims to recognize excellence in winemaking according to international oenological standards, in a setting that promotes transparency, academia, and institutional integrity.

Alejandro Jiménez Hernández, the director of the School of Enology and Gastronomy, highlighted the event’s long-standing history. Initially organized by Baja California’s winemaking sector, the competition has been under UABC’s management for 17 years. The MIWC holds the distinction of being the first international wine competition in Mexico backed by an educational institution and meets the standards of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). Faculty and students from various university programs actively participate in the event, reflecting its academic roots.

Jiménez Hernández emphasized the expertise of the judges, who come with extensive national and international experience in the wine industry. This guarantees that the evaluation process will be both serious and objective.

UABC has also pioneered the use of a computerized wine evaluation system, developed in-house. This system ensures the results are processed and announced quickly, demonstrating the university’s commitment to transparency.

Griselda López González, the competition’s technical coordinator, provided details about the registration process, which is open to all winemaking companies interested in participating. Entries must meet specific technical requirements, such as chemical analysis, and wines will be judged in categories like white, red, rosé, sparkling, and sweet wines. López González also mentioned that the registration deadline is September 27, 2024, with entry fees varying depending on the number of samples submitted by each winery.

Winning labels in each category can earn distinctions such as Grand Gold, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and the prestigious Mexico Medal, awarded to the highest-scoring wine in its category. The total number of medals awarded cannot exceed 30% of the total entries, ensuring a selective recognition process. López González added that labels previously awarded in past editions—those with the same name, varietal, or vintage—are excluded from competing again.

UABC encourages regional, national, and international winemaking companies to take part in the MIWC. The competition not only recognizes excellence in wine production but also fosters collaboration and exchange within the industry.

For more information on registration and the competition’s guidelines, visit the official Mexico International Wine Competition website: https://concursodelvino.ens.uabc.mx.

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 Articles, Cuisine, Food

Indulge in International Chocolate Day: A Celebration of Flavor and Heritage

Every year, September 13th marks a sweet occasion that resonates with chocolate lovers worldwide—International Chocolate Day! This delightful day pays homage to one of the world’s most beloved treats, celebrating not just its irresistible flavor but also its rich history and cultural significance. Whether you’re a fan of dark, milk, or white chocolate, this day is all about indulging in the magic of cocoa and appreciating the countless ways it brings joy to our lives. 

Chocolate has a fascinating history that dates back over 4,000 years to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica, including the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs. In these cultures, cocoa beans were revered as a gift from the gods, used both as currency and in ceremonial drinks. The word “chocolate” itself is believed to have originated from the Aztec word “xocolatl,” which referred to a bitter, spiced drink made from roasted and ground cacao beans. 

When Spanish explorers arrived in the New World, they were introduced to this exotic beverage and brought it back to Europe, where it quickly became a sensation. Over the centuries, chocolate evolved from a luxury reserved for the elite to a treat enjoyed by people of all walks of life, thanks to innovations in production and the addition of sugar and milk to sweeten its bitter flavor. 

Mexico has played a pivotal role in the history and production of chocolate. Today, the country produces around 28,000 tons of cocoa annually, making it a significant player in the global chocolate industry. The states of Tabasco, Chiapas, and Oaxaca are among the top producers, where traditional farming practices are still used to cultivate high-quality cacao beans. These regions are known for their unique flavors, which reflect the rich biodiversity of the Mexican landscape. 

Mexican chocolate is often characterized by its deep, robust flavor, which comes from a blend of cacao, cinnamon, and other spices. This distinctive taste has influenced chocolate recipes around the world and remains a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, where it’s used in everything from mole sauces to sweet hot chocolate drinks. 

While chocolate is undoubtedly delicious, it also comes with a surprising array of health benefits, especially when it comes to dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that helps protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can also improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving blood flow to the heart. 

Moreover, chocolate contains compounds that can boost your mood by increasing the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones in your brain. So, enjoying a piece of dark chocolate not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also contributes to your overall well-being. 

Celebrating International Chocolate Day: Share Your Sweet Moments 

International Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite chocolate treats. Whether you prefer a classic dark chocolate bar, a creamy milk chocolate truffle, or a decadent slice of chocolate cake, today is all about celebrating the joy that chocolate brings. 

We’d love to see how you’re marking this delicious day! Share a photo of your favorite chocolate indulgence and tag us on our post in our social media. Let’s create a virtual celebration filled with everyone’s go-to chocolate delights. 

Fun Chocolate Facts to Sweeten Your Day 

– Chocolate as Currency: In ancient Aztec society, cacao beans were so valuable that they were used as currency. For example, you could trade 10 beans for a rabbit or 100 beans for a turkey. 

– A Chocolate Lover’s Holiday: September 13th was chosen as International Chocolate Day because it’s the birthday of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company. His contributions to the chocolate industry have made him a household name. 

– Chocolate’s Role in World Wars: During World War II, chocolate bars were included in soldiers’ rations as a quick source of energy. It was also used as a morale booster, reminding soldiers of home. 

As we celebrate the sweet side of chocolate, it’s also important to consider its impact on the environment and communities involved in its production. Supporting fair trade chocolate ensures that the farmers who grow the cacao beans are paid fairly and work under safe conditions. Additionally, choosing chocolate from sustainable sources helps protect the environment and supports biodiversity. 

So, as you enjoy your favorite chocolate treat today, take a moment to think about the journey it took from cacao bean to delicious delight—and the people who made it possible. 

Happy International Chocolate Day from all of us at Gringo Gazette North! 🍫 

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 Articles, Arts & Literature, Breaking News

Always, Patsy Cline: A Musical Play Review

BY MARTINA DOBESH

Amazing talent hides out in Baja’s coastal hills. Seldom are we treated to having so many gathered together in one room. But the La Misión Performing Arts held at the Quinta Los Defines gave the community a real treat. It was almost like being present at the Grand Ole Oprea. The setting brought everyone up close and very personal for this musical play, Always, Patsy Cline. It brought the local talent together for a humongous production featuring two powerhouse women to carry the load, Ginevra Altomara as Patsy and Lisa Rath as her friend Louise. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letters to Louise, which were consistently signed “Love ALWAYS… Patsy Cline.” It is said that “It has that magic ingredient that just draws you in — the friendship of the women, the incredible music of Patsy Cline, and in our space the intimacy of storytelling,” 

The original production opened in 1988 and went on to be an international hit. The musical is based on a true story about Patsy Cline’s friendship with Louise Seger. You might remember some of Patsy’s  most famous songs, I Fall to Pieces, Crazy, and Sweet Dreams. She recorded nearly 100 songs and Ginevra, as Patsy Cline, sang 27 of them in this two-hour performance! Ginevra hit the songs out of the ball park, all the while looking beautiful. The power of her voice astounded the audience. And we wanted to know how was it possible for her to remember all those lyrics?! Each with a wardrobe and scene change. One answer might be the years of commitment to developing her art. 

Photos by Kathey Fatica

Enter stage left is Lisa Rath, as Patsy’s friend Louise Seger who became a fan and had the starstruck good luck to have her idol actually stay overnight in her home. Lisa played her part with big bold brightness. Her blond wig, her bawdy movements had us all captive and laughing. And again, we were flabbergasted that she carried off seven separate dialogues of 330 to 500 words and each lasting about five minutes! This is beyond believable. All this with her own scene and costume changes to remember. Both women were truly remarkable and enthralled the audience with their prowess.

Now it takes many passionate people to produce a musical play. Director Danny Ingersoll exclaimed, “Theatre is magic!” And he has been committed to creating this magic for the community, and proud that he has “learned theatre by doing theatre.” This was a huge production he took on and brought the magic of real life to the stage. One of the brilliant additions were the separate band members playing parts as actors. Usually we never see the band, only hear them as background. Each member has a long list of credits to their names and all very seasoned performers. The “Bodacious Bobcats” all had Bob names for the fun of it. Jim Bob played by Miguel Korsa on Guitar, Billy Bob by Bruce Erickson on lead guitar, Ray Bob, by David Finch on the fiddle, Jay Bob, by Glen Brown, Jr. on Bass Guitar, Bob Bob, by Randy Seol on drums. Joe Bob, was played by Derek Wille a MYNDSTREAM recording artist who made the baby grand piano come alive. All this amazing talent provided the feel of the Gand Ole Opry. Assistant Director Jan Folsom pulled all this together managing the stage. Set design by Michael Fatica were cute little intimate sets for certain scenes. Paul Ross was the set master builder of a flashy juke box and nice detail sets to support all the action. And part of this fun was they called for participation from us to sing along. We would be remiss to not acknowledge the beautiful location provided by David Cattanio of the lovely Quinta Los Defines.

So, could it get any better? You bet! I had been invited to the last dress rehearsal before opening night. Part of that invitation was to follow the cast to Splash where David Finch, “Ray Bob” would take his fiddle to join the master guitarist, Miguel de Hoyos for a jam session. We really got to see David’s fiddle in action to resounding cheers from the diners. David has played beside many diverse artists Alan Cuming, Tony Bennett, and Dee Snider to name a few. He has acted on Broadway and the West End in London, as well as the BBC Symphony Orchestra in London and so much more. 

Of course, we know Miguel! We have come to think of him as our own. He has traveled the world and played for presidents and dignitaries. He has performed more than 80 concerts in Germany. As well as all over Europe and Mexico. He is also known as part of our community and teaches guitar and Spanish to the locals. How could we be so lucky to have Miguel living nearby and playing Wednesday nights for an early evening performance? Well, just lucky I guess. One visitor said that in San Diego his performance would be a $200 gig!

You will want to check in for all the upcoming productions like the Halloween Murder Mystery and other events for the holidays. Check in with David Cattanio at Quintalosdelfines@gmail.com

Editor’s Note: Martina is a freelance writer, columnist for Baja Bound and author of Dust in My Sandals, Tales from a Baja Traveler. Give the gift that keeps on giving to friends and family.

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