Articles

Articles, Baja Norte, Breaking News, Mexicali, Safety, San Felipe, Water, Weather

Fighting the Heat with Heart: Baja’s Response in Action

The numbers are grim—46 lives lost in Baja California this year to heat-related causes, with nearly 250 others suffering serious effects. In response, the state has rolled out its “Verano Seguro” campaign, a life-saving effort to prevent more deaths as temperatures continue to climb.

On Friday, state health secretary José Adrián Medina Amarillas confirmed what many feared: 2024 has already broken records for heat fatalities, and summer hasn’t even peaked. “The first two deaths were agricultural workers,” Medina said, “which is why we’re getting ahead of this now.”

The state is deploying 300 hydration stations across Mexicali, the Valle, and San Felipe—strategically placed where they’re needed most: near agricultural zones and places where people experiencing homelessness gather. These mobile hubs will provide water, electrolytes, and a moment of relief for those enduring the furnace-like sun.

This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about the lives of people who work under the sun for hours without shade, and those with nowhere to sleep but the streets. Health teams will also be visiting packaging centers and job sites across the valley, hoping to intercept dehydration before it turns deadly.

Medina made it clear: recognizing heatstroke symptoms can make the difference between life and death. These include extreme body temperature, chills, confusion, and seizures. “It starts with internal overheating,” he explained, “and can spiral into system-wide collapse, brain damage, or worse.”

If you’re working outside, walking long distances, or even just stuck without AC, take this seriously. This is no ordinary summer—it’s a scorching, relentless gauntlet. And for some, hydration could be the only thing standing between them and tragedy.

Water isn’t just refreshing anymore. It’s survival.

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screwworm
 Articles, International

Cows on Hold, But Cooperation Rides Strong

This week’s border buzz isn’t about people. It’s about cows—and one nasty little parasite.

The U.S. just paused cattle imports from Mexico. The freeze will last 15 days. The reason? A flesh-eating pest called the New World screwworm.

The worm showed up in Chiapas and Veracruz. Those states aren’t major cattle exporters. Still, the U.S. didn’t want to risk it.

So, they shut the gates—fast.

That didn’t sit well with Mexico. President Sheinbaum fired back. “Mexico is no one’s piñata,” she said. Meanwhile, Agriculture Secretary Julio Berdegué called out the lack of warning. After all, both countries have protocols for this.

Despite the drama, both sides are working together. Mexico jumped into action. Officials started releasing sterile flies to stop the worms from spreading. Weird, yes—but also effective.

The USDA admitted the effort is solid. They’re staying in touch with Mexican authorities. That’s a good sign.

But ranchers are nervous. Mexico sends over $1 billion in cattle to the U.S. each year. Even a short delay can cause headaches. On the U.S. side, buyers are watching closely too.

Nobody wants worms crossing the border. But nobody wants to lose business either.

🐄 So, what do you think? Smart move or overreaction? Send us your thoughts—we’re always listening.

Here’s an explication about the “gusano barrenador” Screwworm

#Diagram from Ciencia UNAM
The image titled “¡Cuidado con el Gusano Barrenador!” (Beware of the Screwworm!) provides information in Spanish about the New World screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax, and its life cycle. It warns about the dangers of screwworm infestation, where some fly species deposit their eggs in superficial wounds of mammals. The larva is described as resembling a small screw with rings of spines and hooks for tearing tissues. It affects all warm-blooded animals, including humans, with cattle, horses, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, birds, and deer being more susceptible, usually in open wounds. In people, infestations require hospitalization. The life cycle includes oviposition where the female fly lays up to 3,000 eggs in three days, the larval phase where the larvae hatch and feed on living tissue, the pupal phase in the soil, and finally the adult that emerges in 7 to 10 days and can fly long distances. If animals do not receive treatment, they can die within one to two weeks. The image also highlights that it is a zoonosis, emphasizing the need for extreme precautions for its control. In summary, the infographic alerts about the screwworm, details its life cycle, identifies hosts, describes the effects, and underscores its zoonotic nature and the importance of control.Read more: Cows on Hold, But Cooperation Rides Strong

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 Articles, Baja Norte, Beaches, Breaking News, Charities, Rosarito, Water

Waves of Love: Kids With Disabilities Ride in Rosarito

Rosarito’s most heartwarming tradition is making its way back to shore. After weeks of uncertainty, the beloved surf therapy sessions for children with disabilities are officially returning to Raul’s Beach starting May 31—and they’re bringing big smiles and even bigger waves.

The nonprofit behind this feel-good project, Olas Para Todos (Waves for Everyone), has been giving kids the chance to catch waves and confidence for over a decade. Spearheaded by Carlos Luna, the group pairs children and teens with expert volunteers who guide them safely into the ocean for what many call life-changing therapy.

Although Raul’s Beach, located near Kilometer 42 in Primo Tapia, has been closed off to the general public, the landowners have graciously agreed to open it for these monthly sessions through November.

Photo: Example of activities in the event

The first event will accommodate 40 participants, ages six and up. And here’s the kicker—it’s all free. From wetsuits to boards, everything is provided. Parents only need to sign up through the association’s social media pages.

This year, the organization is stepping up its safety game with help from a local paramedic school, ensuring more support both on land and in the water. And now that Olas Para Todos is officially registered as an association, it can receive donations—helping expand a program that already touches the lives of 350 to 400 kids annually.

Luna says the group is also hoping to rally support from the local government, including councilman Fidel Ortiz Mendoza, who heads up the Disability and Inclusion Committee.

With a fresh wave of backing and plenty of heart, Rosarito’s surf therapy program isn’t just back—it’s stronger than ever.

Want to donate, volunteer, or register your child? Look up Olas Para Todos on Facebook and be part of the magic.

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 Articles

Snip Snip, Señores! Free Vasectomies Offered in Mexicali This May

While flowers, mariachis, and teary poems dominate Mexico’s Mother’s Day, Mexicali’s health officials are doing something a little different this year: they’re calling on men to step up and do their part — scissors and all.

In honor of May 10 (yes, that’s Mexican Mother’s Day, for you gringos still texting your mom next Sunday), health authorities in Mexicali are offering free vasectomies throughout the month. That’s right, gentlemen: snip now, skip diapers later.

The program is led by the Baja California Ministry of Health and is part of a statewide push for shared responsibility in family planning. And let’s be honest — moms have done enough. This time, it’s the guys’ turn to make a small but meaningful sacrifice.

The procedure is quick, outpatient, and 100% free. No hospital stay, no scalpel, and no regrets (well, unless you really wanted that sixth kid).

#Vasectomy

Appointments can be scheduled through your local health center in Mexicali, and walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability. And don’t worry — there’s counseling beforehand, so no one walks in without knowing what they’re leaving without.

This campaign isn’t about pushing anything. It’s about offering real options. And while it may raise some eyebrows, it’s also raising awareness that responsibility isn’t just for mamá.

So if you’re a father who’s done his duty, or a partner who’s ready to show love in a whole new way, this might just be the best gift you can give this May.

💜 Flowers wilt. Chocolates melt. But this? This lasts.

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Executive order from President Trump
 Articles

Trump Says “Learn English in 60 Days” — Truckers Say “¿What?”

A new executive order from President Trump is shaking up border trucking like a pothole on the Tijuana freeway. The mandate? All commercial drivers entering the U.S. must speak English — and they’ve got 60 days to prove it.

Currently, only 3 out of 10 truckers along the border speak English well enough to explain a flat tire, let alone communicate with U.S. safety officials. As a result, this mandate has sent ripples through the transport community — and not the good kind.


Representing the voice of many concerned drivers, Israel Delgado Vallejo, vice president for the Northwest Region of CANACAR (Mexico’s National Chamber of Freight Transport) and delegate in Tijuana, weighed in on the decision:

Israel Delegado Vallejo, vice president CANACAR
# Israel Delegado Vallejo, vice president CANACAR

👉 “There are many capable drivers who simply don’t speak English, and that doesn’t make them less safe.”

In theory, the rule aims to improve communication and road safety. In practice, however, it’s throwing a wrench into binational commerce. The order requires drivers to read signs, follow written instructions, and speak directly to U.S. officers — all in English. If they can’t, they’ll be sidelined.

Meanwhile, truckers and companies now scramble to meet the language requirement. For many, that means urgent training, higher costs, and disrupted schedules — all under a tight two-month deadline.

Moreover, Vallejo warns this could clog ports of entry and delay cargo, affecting everything from avocados to auto parts. “This is a slap in the face to working people who’ve delivered goods safely for decades,” he said.

So now what? Either drivers pick up English fast — or trade slows down faster. Border business just got bilingual. And no, “Spanglish” doesn’t count.

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Hand Hygiene Day
 Articles, Baja Norte, Healthcare

🧼 It’s Hand Hygiene Day, folks!

Before you grab that taco or adjust your sunglasses — wash your hands. Seriously.

Every May 5, the world celebrates Hand Hygiene Day, and this year the Baja California Health Department joined in, reminding everyone that soap and water are still the OG disease fighters. From the flu to COVID-19, handwashing helps keep the bugs at bay.

Dr. Adrián Medina Amarillas, our state’s health secretary, didn’t mince words: clean hands save lives. He recommends a solid 40–60 seconds of washing — palms, backs, between the fingers, thumbs, under the nails — the works. No soap? Use hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol.

#Hand Hygiene Day

👏🏼 But here’s the twist — Mexico’s own ReMIEIE (Red Mexicana Interdisciplinaria de Educación e Investigación en Enfermería) is also backing the campaign, because nurses and researchers know better than anyone: health starts with the basics.

So today, celebrate your hands. Wash ‘em like you mean it. And maybe keep that hand sanitizer handy… just in case.

🧴 Stay soapy, Baja.

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Aleta Azul (Bluefin)
 Articles, Calendar of Events, Ensenada

Celebrate the Tuna: A Fun-Filled Day at Caracol Science Museum

Ensenada Celebrates Tuna Day with Free Family Event

This Saturday, May 3, Ensenada is throwing a party for one of our favorite sea creatures — the tuna.

From 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the Caracol Science Museum will host a free event full of tasty food, hands-on activities, and cool facts. The star of the show? The bluefin tuna. The event also celebrates the reopening of the exhibit “Aleta Azul: El Atún del Pacífico.”

Aleta Azul (Bluefin)
#Aleta Azul (Bluefin)

One highlight is the ronqueo demonstration — the traditional art of filleting bluefin tuna. An expert from Baja Aqua Farms, along with chef Miguel Bahena, will show the process live. It’s a mix of tradition, precision, and culinary skill you rarely get to see.

filleting bluefin tuna
#filleting bluefin tuna

Throughout the day, guests can also enjoy educational talks, raffles, fun stations for kids, and plenty of food. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seafood fan, science lover, or just looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday.

The event is organized by the Caracol Museo de Ciencias, with support from Baja Aqua Farms and Bluefina. Best of all, admission is free.

🐟 Come celebrate one of Baja’s greatest catches — and yes, we mean that literally.

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Golfing for Good in Tijuana
 Articles, Charities, Tijuana

Golf Clubs & Good Deeds: Tijuana Tournament

An event with a purpose, not just a swing.

On May 22, Fundación Mi Chante will tee off at the Club Campestre de Tijuana with its 5th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. This year, the day honors José Sulaimán — the late boxing icon whose legacy still fuels dreams in and out of the ring. While many charity tournaments exist, this one stands out because it’s about more than golf. It’s about changing young lives.

Through this event, the foundation raises funds to support athletes across Mexico. These aren’t just handouts. Instead, proceeds cover real needs: travel to competitions, athletic gear, training costs, physical therapy, and even school expenses. Meanwhile, Fundación Mi Chante works directly with these athletes to find sponsors, mentors, and resources. In fact, their support goes far beyond the field or the gym — it’s a full-circle approach to youth development.

#Golfing for Good in Tijuana

President Abelardo Peña Madrigal leads the organization with a clear mission. “This tournament is a celebration of community and generosity,” he said. “It’s about giving talented young people the chance to pursue their dreams and stay on the right path.” That vision has turned a simple sports fundraiser into a regional event with real momentum.

A cross-border effort with local heart.

This year, they’re getting a major boost from their main sponsor: Escondido Golf Cart Center, a California-based company that specializes in all things golf cart — sales, rentals, repairs, and custom jobs. Their work stretches into hotels, warehouses, and industrial spaces, but their support of this tournament shows their reach goes beyond business.

CEO Victor Lopez Duron sees the partnership as a perfect fit. “We believe in supporting the next generation — not just through business, but by investing in their future,” he said. As a result, the company’s involvement adds not only resources, but real heart to the event.

While golfers from across northern Baja are expected, the invitation is open to anyone who wants to help out — from San Diego to Ensenada. Whether you play a killer short game or just want a good excuse to be outside for a cause, you’re welcome to join.

For details, donations, or registration, visit www.fundacionmichante.com.

Because sometimes, changing a kid’s life starts with a tee-off.

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 Articles

Crash at El Gallo Overpass Leaves One Dead in Ensenada

A woman in her 50s tragically died Tuesday afternoon after crashing into a pole at the “El Gallo” overpass in Ensenada.

#El Gallo overpass intersection in Ensenada, where signage still has drivers guessing.

The accident happened around 3:50 p.m. at the busy Reforma and Delante intersection. According to early reports, the driver of a gray 2016 Nissan Versa lost control of her car and hit a traffic pole. The impact was severe enough that emergency crews declared her dead at the scene.

No other vehicles were involved, and no bystanders were hurt.

While the cause of the accident is still under investigation, authorities are looking into whether speed, a mechanical issue, or a health emergency played a role.

Locals point out that signage at this intersection remains confusing—a problem that’s been flagged before. Could better signs have made a difference?

Traffic was briefly backed up while crews cleared the scene, but everything is flowing normally again.

This isn’t just another car crash headline. It’s a wake-up call about safety at intersections we all use daily.

Drive smart. Baja’s roads need your attention. What do you think about signage at El Gallo? Chime in at Gringo Gazette North.

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 Articles, Water

Treaty Troubles, Again: Water Deal Update 2025

How Baja plans to stay hydrated

If you’ve been following our ongoing coverage of the 1944 Water Treaty, here’s your latest update. Mexico has agreed to send between 400 and 518 million cubic meters of water to the U.S. between May and October 2025. That’s a lot of agua—especially when our own taps are starting to worry.

This move aims to patch up a growing deficit in water deliveries from the Río Bravo (a.k.a. the Rio Grande), and let’s just say our friends in Washington weren’t exactly feeling generous. Just last month, the U.S. flat-out denied Mexico’s request for extra water from the Colorado River—the same river that helps keep Tijuana and the rest of Baja breathing.

That decision was, let’s say… not refreshing.

What does this mean for Baja?

While the treaty technically applies to the Río Bravo basin, the political pressure affects all border states. And yes, that includes Baja California. Remember: Tijuana gets a big slice of its water from the Colorado. When Washington sneezes, Baja needs to bring an umbrella.

#Visualizing water being sent for today’s mega simulacro (AI-generated)

The Mexican government is trying to make good with quick transfers and promises of more once the rains come. There are high-level talks going on, and rumors of desalination projects and water rights reforms are making their usual rounds.

So what’s next?

We’ll keep you posted. But if you really want the deep dive, check in with Martina Dobesh, our water correspondent and resident flow-watcher. She’s been tracking this story long before the politicians got thirsty.

This isn’t just a treaty story. It’s about how Baja plans to stay hydrated in the years to come. And if you missed our previous coverage, scroll back—our archives are as full as Lake Mead isn’t.

💧 Water’s political. Thirst is personal. For more, see Martina’s reports right here in the Gringo Gazette North.

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