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Articles

Midnight Hammer Drops—Is Baja in the Blast Radius?

Midnight Hammer & Operation Fallout

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?

  1. 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.
  2. Stay aware. Track wind patterns, follow alerts, and brush up on basic emergency measures.
  3. Diplomacy matters. This unpredictable “yes, no, maybe” peace moment is another reminder: global stability depends on choices made far beyond our border.
  4. 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)

📝 Reporting by GGNorth Security Watch

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Rosarito’s Half Marathon
 Articles, Rosarito, Sports, Video

VIDEO: Rosarito Runs the Extra Mile—Literally

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!
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.

Rosarito on the Run: Faces, Finish Lines, and Fiesta Vibes

📝 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!

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First Place Glory: Fisharmz Takes It All
 Articles

Exciting Recap: Dos Mares Baja Fishing Tournament Winners Uncovered

BAHÍA DE LOS ÁNGELES, Baja California — June 15, 2025

What happens when 160 anglers, 31 boats, and a whole lot of bait hit the Sea of Cortez? You get one heck of a fishing tournament—with pesos, pride, and plenty of fish tales up for grabs.

First Place Glory: Fisharmz Takes It All

Team Fisharmz from Los Angeles walked away as champions, hauling in a yellowtail and grouper combo that totaled 63.7 pounds. Their reward? A whopping 270,000 pesos, thanks to a trifecta win: first place, the bottom-fishing gold jackpot, and best captain honors.

Second and Third Place: Close, but No Trophy

Escualos y Trapos Fishing Crew from Ensenada secured second place with a combined catch of 56.8 pounds, taking home 100,000 pesos. Meanwhile, FG Sportfishing of San Diego landed third with a 53.5-pound grouper—earning 105,000 pesos total (from a 60,000-peso placement and a 45,000-peso silver jackpot).

#Best Women’s Team: Costa del Sol Sport Fishing from Bahía de los Ángeles
#Jackpot Sweepers: Muñecos Fishing Team from Ensenada snagged both surface jackpots, reeling in 93,000 pesos
#Top Youth Crew: El Siete Mares from Tijuana (10,000 pesos)
Winners Uncovered

While it may seem like third place scored more than second, don’t worry—those jackpots were separate. Each team’s prize money was split among crew members.

Special Awards: Women, Kids, and Surface Pros

  • Best Women’s Team: Costa del Sol Sport Fishing from Bahía de los Ángeles
  • Top Youth Crew: El Siete Mares from Tijuana (10,000 pesos)
  • Jackpot Sweepers: Muñecos Fishing Team from Ensenada snagged both surface jackpots, reeling in 93,000 pesos

Catch & Release? Not This Time

No team submitted videos for the catch-and-release category—so that prize pool stayed untouched. However, all participants had a shot at gear raffles and giveaways just for joining.

Community Support and a Packed Dock

From 2:00 p.m. onward, the docks at Bahía de los Ángeles came alive with returning boats, giant fish, and plenty of cheers. Officials from SEPESCA BC, the Navy, and local leaders were on hand to celebrate the boost this event brings to the region’s economy.

📅 Next Stop: Ensenada, August 29–30

The next Dos Mares Baja tournament sets sail in Ensenada at the end of August. Whether you fish or just enjoy the vibe, mark your calendar—because this event is reeling in more than just sea creatures.

📸 Photo courtesy: SEPESCA BC

📝 Reporting by GGNorth—still covering what matters, even when it smells like fish.

#GGNorth #FishingBajaStyle #DosMaresBaja #NoBadNews #EnsenadaNextStop #TrophyCatch

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Photo: Courtesy SSCBC
 Articles

Baja’s Security Makeover: More Patrols, Fresh Faces, and a Plan

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 officers deployed 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?

📸 Photo: Courtesy SSCBC

#GGNorth #NoBadNews #BajaSecurity2025 #FERI #VioletaSystem #SSCBC #BajaSafeAgain #WineCountryWatch

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Photo: Courtesy of Presidencia de México
 Articles

Meeting delayed, but Mexico shows up strong at the G7

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.
#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.

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 Articles

Ensenada EDC Makes Waves at Paris Air Show 2025

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.
#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.

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Photo credit: Reddit user u/TriggerHappyPins, r/pics — “Los Angeles ICE Protest” (Original Content, posted 3 days ago)
 Articles, International, Mexico: Making Headlines

Mexico says “no” to violence—and yes to dignity

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

MigrationWatch #GGNorth #NoBadNews #BajaPerspective

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 Articles

Baja’s Best: Viñedos en Flor Festival Chef Lineup Revealed

What happens when Baja’s top chefs, winemakers, and artists throw a party in the name of community? You get Viñedos en Flor—which literally translates to “Vineyards in Bloom.” And yes, it’s just as poetic as it sounds.

This annual countryside celebration marks the spring bloom of Baja’s vineyards, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the deep connection between the land, its people, and their culinary heritage. It also happens to be one of the most joyful and meaningful food and wine events of the year.

On Saturday, June 14, Rancho San Gabriel will host the 19th edition of this beloved festival, bringing together over 80 wineries and more than 160 wine labels, plus a chef lineup that reads like a culinary dream team.

Who’s Cooking? Only the Best

Here’s a taste of what to expect:

  • VEGETABLES – Solange Muris (Manzanilla)
  • QUAIL – Drew Deckman (Deckman’s en El Mogor)
  • BEEF – Gaby Melchum (Hacienda Guadalupe)
  • RIB EYE – Edgard Romero (Terra Noble)
  • SUCKLING PIG – Alfredo Villanueva (Villa Torel)
  • PORK – David Rocha (Comal)
  • PORK – Óscar Torres (Animalón)
  • LAMB – Miguel Bahena (Madre)
  • DESSERTS – Carolina Verdugo (Madre)
#Manzanilla
#Deckman’s en el Mogor
#Hacienda Guadalupe
#Terra Noble
#Villa Torel
#Comal
#Animalon
#Madre
#Madre

Each chef was selected not just for their talent, but also for their commitment to sustainability, fair trade, and Baja values. They’re here not to compete, but to celebrate—and to make sure every bite tells a story of the land and the sea.

More Than a Festival—It’s a Cause

Viñedos en Flor was created to raise funds for local causes. This year’s event supports upgrades to the Unidad Deportiva del Ejido El Porvenir, helping improve access to sports and education for local youth.

Last year, proceeds went toward major improvements at CBTA #323: 105 desks, 35 computers, and upgraded civic infrastructure—all from ticket sales and generous participants.

Art, Culture, and Kids Included

Beyond the wine and food, the event features:

  • Live painting of large-format pieces with help from local children
  • Traditional Kumiai and Kiliwa cooking demos
  • Ecological corridor with sustainable solutions from local groups
  • A family-friendly vibe with kite-flying, mini farm, and creative workshops

Quick Tips Before You Go

  • 🎟 Tickets: Only 1,500–2,000 available
  • 🎯 Total expected attendance: 3,000 (includes wineries, chefs, and yes—us from GGNorth)
  • 💸 Cost: $950 MXN
  • 👶 Kids under 18 enter free
  • 🐶 Not pet friendly—leave the pup at home

So, if you haven’t grabbed your ticket yet, do it now. This is not just another wine festival—it’s a blooming tribute to everything that makes Baja beautiful. And with that chef lineup? You’ll want to show up hungry.

🌸 See you there—wine glass in one hand, heart in the other.

For details and tickets: clubprovino.mx

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Talking Taste and Tradition: The Brains Behind Cocina La Baja 2025 Sit Down with Gringo Gazette North
 Articles, Ensenada, Events, Food, Sabor Patrol

Baja’s Big Bite: Cocina La Baja 2025 Serves Up Flavor, Heart and a Little Bit of Sea Spray

Get ready to loosen your belts and sharpen your forks—Cocina La Baja 2025 is almost here, and it’s not just another food festival. It’s a full-on flavor storm with a side of community pride. Taking place July 12 at Estero Beach in Ensenada, this isn’t your average “eat, snap, repeat” event. It’s where the sea, land, and kitchen come together in one giant, delicious hug.

We got the inside scoop straight from the salty crew themselves—Chef Oliver Seki (a.k.a. Heart & Flavor Ambassador), Oceanographer Rogelio Cano Cetina (General Coordinator and Sea Whisperer), Chef Hugo Lara (Gastronomic Soul), and media mouthpiece Enrique Montiel, who invited us to dive in. Literally.

From left to right: Oceanographer Rogelio Cano Cetina (General Coordinator of Cocina La Baja), Chef Hugo Lara (Gastronomic Ambassador), Chef Oliver Seki (Heart & Flavor Ambassador), PhD. Luisa Rosas (Managing Editor and writer at Gringo Gazette North), and Oliver Quintero (Publisher, Gringo Gazette North).
Interview held at Seki Japanese Baja Cuisine.

It’s Not Just Food—It’s a Love Letter to Baja

What makes Cocina La Baja so special? Simple. It’s all about product, producers, chefs, and the people. You won’t find pretentious menus or imported fluff. Just fresh Baja seafood, local legends in the kitchen, and zero room for ego. Every bite tells the story of a fisherman, a family, a tide that turned.

This year’s star ingredients? Golden sea bream, oysters, abalone, sea urchin, and even edible algae. If it lives in the Pacific and pairs well with a Sauvignon Blanc (and it does), you’ll probably taste it.

45 Chefs. 45 Producers. One Giant Culinary Fiesta

That’s right—this year features 45 restaurant-producer dream teams. No one pays for a spot, but everyone earns it. Participants commit to fair trade, sustainability, and promoting Baja’s sea treasures.

There’s even a “People’s Choice” competition, so yes, your opinion—and appetite—matter.

Speaking of seafood drama, rumor has it the tuna gets a full ronqueo (butchering show) courtesy of Baja Aqua Farms, and sushi legend Cesar Martínez might be slicing up some nigiris. Add a virtual reality station, cornhole, DJ beats, and a performance by Ensenada’s own Rondalla, and you’ve got a perfect Saturday.

What About the Environment?

Glad you asked. Cocina La Baja isn’t just chewing—it’s thinking. Expect biodegradable materials, zero-waste commitments, and speakers from Pronatura Noroeste and COMEPESCA talking real sustainability. There’s even a marine workshop for university students with protein raffles, because yes, science can be tasty.

And because this is Baja, it’s pet-friendly. You can bring your dog, just don’t expect a seafood bowl or water dispensers.

More Than a Festival—It’s a Movement

Born in 2016 as a non-profit government project (originally called Baja Seafood Export), Cocina La Baja has grown from 200 attendees to an expected crowd of 3,000 this year. Tickets are limited to 1,500 but trust us, it’ll feel like the whole peninsula showed up.

This is the second year the event honors the late Minerva Pérez Castro, a fierce voice in the local fishing community. Her legacy lives on in the Premio Minerva, celebrating innovation and commitment to Baja’s maritime identity.

And yes—we’ll be there too, proudly counted in that 3,000-strong crowd. Find us near the oyster stand or the wine bar.

Don’t Miss It

So, if you’ve got 950 pesos, an empty stomach, and a love for food that tells a story—Cocina La Baja is where you need to be. No VIP lounges, no fluff. Just Baja being Baja.

We’ll see you at Estero Beach. Come hungry, leave a believer.

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From Ensenada to Yucatán: Andrea Harley’s Sailing Glory

If you think sailing is just a weekend hobby, think again. For Andrea Harley Ruiz Morales from Ensenada, sailing is a test of strength, focus, and relentless perseverance—and this year, it paid off in silver.

A Sea of Talent in Yucatán

At the 2025 Olimpiada Nacional CONADE, Mexico’s most important national sports event for young athletes, one Ensenadense sailor stood out. Andrea Harley Ruiz Morales, just 17 years old, clinched a silver medal in the ILCA 6 women’s category (ages 17–18), proving her consistency after winning bronze the year before.

What’s ILCA 6?

ILCA stands for International Laser Class Association. The ILCA 6 category refers to a specific type of single-handed sailboat, known for its agility and physical demands. Competitions are intense, often involving nine one-hour races over three days. Victory depends not on who wins most races, but who accumulates the fewest points—making every second and every gust of wind count.


Andrea Harley Ruiz and her coach Jorge Kornegay celebrate after securing the silver medal at the 2025 National Sailing Olympics.

Hard Work Behind the Sails

Andrea’s preparation has been no small feat. She trains every weekend under the guidance of coach Jorge Kornegay Sánchez and hits the gym during the week. Earlier this year, she competed in an international regatta in Cancún and trained for three weeks in Acapulco to get ready for this big event. Boats for the competition were rented in Valle de Bravo and shipped to Yucatán—a logistical move common in this sport due to high costs and distances.

Not Just About Speed

Sailing isn’t always smooth seas. In one of the races, other competitors had to drop out after their masts broke—a reminder of how physically and technically demanding the sport is. Andrea, however, remained steady, showing the kind of resilience and focus that wins medals.

Rising Star from Ensenada

Andrea’s back-to-back medals—bronze in her first national showing and now silver—are proof of her growth and potential. She’s not just representing Baja California; she’s putting Ensenada on the map in the world of sailing.

Cheers from the Port

A huge shoutout to Andrea Harley for her determination and grit, and to coach Jorge Kornegay for supporting her journey. From Ensenada’s shores to national waters, this duo is charting a course for greatness.

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