Articles

U.S. authorities are sniffing around everything—banks, boxers, and even wedding rings
 Articles, USA/MEX

Think Before You Sign… or Marry, ICE is watching

From money to matrimony, nobody’s flying under the radar anymore.

You may have seen the headlines already. Something about banks being fined. Julio César Chávez Jr. getting detained. A marriage that’s raising more eyebrows than champagne glasses. But you haven’t read it like this—Gringo Gazette North style.

Mexican banks in hot water… and not for overdrafts

The National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV) just slapped CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector Brokerage House with a total of 185 million pesos in fines. Why? Because their anti-money laundering systems were about as secure as a tequila bar during Spring Break.

Then the United States Department of the Treasury chimed in. Several international banks—including Visa, Citibank, and BNY Mellon—started freezing accounts and cutting off services faster than a bartender cuts you off after your third mezcal.

So if you, your business, or your mother-in-law have accounts or investments with these banks, now’s the time to double-check your paperwork. These days, a little “oops” could cost you millions, get your funds locked up, or have your services revoked altogether.

And to our American readers: okay, you can’t be denied a green card—you’re already rocking the blue passport. But don’t get cocky. The Treasury doesn’t care if you’re from Boise or Brooklyn—if your name shows up in the wrong spreadsheet, you might find yourself in the “extra screening” line next time you try to pay for tacos with your US card.

Julio César Chávez Jr. and the cost of loving dangerously

On July 2, 2025, Chávez Jr. was detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Studio City, California, for using false information in his green card application and overstaying his tourist visa.

But that’s just the beginning. Back in Mexico, the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) has had a warrant out for him since March 2023 for organized crime, weapons trafficking, and alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel.

Why the suspicion? Chávez Jr. married Frida Muñoz, a U.S. citizen and widow of Édgar Guzmán López—yes, that Guzmán, the son of El Chapo.

And here’s the kicker: even though she’s a citizen, and even though he’s a famous athlete, his green card application was denied. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) considers him a “public safety risk” because of his wife’s connections.

So… who your spouse used to be married to might just be your problem now

The lesson? It’s not just about who you marry—but who they married first. If your partner’s ex is a cartel prince, a sanctioned banker, or on any government watchlist… let’s just say immigration won’t be sending you a Christmas card.

The GGNorth rundown:

  • CIBanco, Intercam, Vector: hit with 185 million pesos in fines for poor anti-money laundering protocols.
  • U.S. Treasury: stepped in, pressured institutions, froze accounts, and gave Mexico a short window to clean things up.
  • Chávez Jr.: detained by ICE, sought by Mexican prosecutors, green card denied, and stuck in a legal boxing match he’s not winning.

Here at Gringo Gazette North, we keep it real. With facts, a wink, and just enough sarcasm to make the truth easier to swallow.

Because you know our motto: No Bad News—just the news that matters, told like it is.

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“The Spaces Speak to Me of the Past,”
 Articles

When Art Listens: Ensenada’s Past and Mexicali’s Message of Hope

Art in Baja California isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about identity, healing, and telling stories that matter. This summer, Ensenada and Mexicali are both showing how powerful a splash of color can be.

Ensenada’s Streets, Captured on Canvas

Alejandro Arellano Vega wants you to slow down and look at Ensenada a little differently.

His new exhibit, “The Spaces Speak to Me of the Past,” now open at CEART Ensenada, features paintings of the city’s architecture. Think old facades, weathered corners, and historic spots you’ve walked by but never really noticed.

Arellano studied architecture at UABC and visual arts at CRIA. He’s also a 2024 PECDA Young Creators grant recipient. His style? Careful observation, long walks, historical research, and a deep love for Ensenada’s past. His work turns everyday buildings into emotional landmarks.

If you’re into urban landscapes, or just want to see Ensenada through new eyes, this show is worth the visit.

Mexicali’s Mural of Strength

Over in Mexicali, art is going big—and bold.

At the Centro de Justicia para las Mujeres (CEJUM), a massive community mural is in progress. It’s not just about paint. It’s about healing. Organized through the Cultura Comunitaria program, the mural brings together local artists, students, parents, and neighbors.

Everyone’s invited to add a brushstroke. The goal? To create a message of safety and support for women and girls who arrive at CEJUM, many during very hard moments in their lives.

Magdalena Bautista, CEJUM’s director, called it “a collective hug.” The mural aims to send a strong, visual signal: this is a safe space, and you are not alone.

#Artists, community members, and local leaders stand in front of the in-progress mural at CEJUM Mexicali—a collective work of healing, empathy, and hope.

A Shared Mission Through Art

What ties these two projects together?

Both remind us that art is more than decoration. It’s a tool for reflection. In Ensenada, it honors the past. In Mexicali, it supports healing and change.

We already covered the CEJUM mural in more detail earlier—check it out here.

For now, it’s safe to say Baja’s artistic pulse is strong—and very much worth your attention.

So take a stroll through CEART. Or lend a hand at the CEJUM mural. Either way, you’ll witness something beautiful: people using creativity to build a better, more human Baja.

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 Articles, Cuisine, Ensenada

24,000 Bites and Zero Regrets

Cocina la Baja 2025 Delivers Another Delicious Hit

If your taste buds weren’t at Estero Beach this weekend, you missed out. Big time.

Cocina la Baja 2025 turned up the heat with a full-on seafood fest. Chefs, fishers, and food lovers gathered for one of Baja’s most flavorful events of the year.

A Feast from the Sea

Guests were welcomed with a wine glass and a massive display of the event’s logo. The air was filled with the scent of grilled octopus and sizzling clams.

More than 40 booths offered tastings of Baja’s best. Think fresh ceviche, smoked oysters, sea urchin pasta, and even oyster ice cream.

Over 24,000 individual tastings were served throughout the day. That’s a lot of bites—and a lot of happy bellies.

Top Dishes, Big Wins

The People’s Choice went to Ilusso from Tijuana. Their taco of merluza in nori with plantain tortilla stole the show.

First place from the judges? A tiradito of cabrilla with yuzu and miso by Bocalobina and chef Abraham Gutiérrez.

Second went to Bivalva for their smoked oyster ice cream. Third place was a rich pasta with sea urchin cream by Almatierra.

Not Just Eating—Learning Too

The event wasn’t only about food. It was about education and fun.

At the Pabellón Manglar, kids colored sea creatures and joined a fishing-themed rally. Meanwhile, adults watched a live tuna “ronqueo” (butchering demo) by Bluefiná.

Cocina la Baja also featured producers from all over Baja. Wine and craft beer flowed freely between bites.

A Toast to Baja’s Coast

Cocina la Baja keeps getting better. With support from SEPESCA BC, COMEPESCA, and dozens of local chefs, the event once again proved why Baja is king of the sea.

It’s not just a food festival. It’s a love letter to Baja’s coast—and a reason to come back next year.

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The brand-new IMSS Bienestar Hospital No. 23 opens its doors in Ensenada. Photo courtesy of El Vigía’s official Facebook page.
 Articles

Sheinbaum Opens New IMSS Hospital—Right Before the Seafood Fest

If you’re heading to Cocina la Baja today, make a pit stop on your way. President Claudia Sheinbaum is in Ensenada this Saturday, July 12, and she’s not just here for the view—she’s cutting the ribbon at one of the most important medical projects in decades: the brand-new IMSS Bienestar Regional Hospital No. 23.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the brand-new IMSS hospital, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum herself, is scheduled for 2:00 PM. Yep—the exact same time Cocina la Baja kicks off. So if you’re torn between fresh seafood and fresh medical facilities… we totally get it. Priorities, right?

President Claudia Sheinbaum arrives in Ensenada to inaugurate the new IMSS Bienestar Hospital. Photo courtesy of the Government of Mexico, Ensenada Delegation.

A Big Dose of Hope

Set right by El Ciprés (Av. Reforma and Calle Margaritas, Ex Ejido Chapultepec), this public hospital is expected to serve over 300,000 residents across the region. We’re talking 216 hospital beds, 32 specialties, and fully-equipped facilities for oncology, dialysis, pediatrics, and general surgery. And it’s all under the IMSS Bienestar model, which means free care for anyone without social security coverage.

Yep, real healthcare—no fine print, no wallet pain.

Years in the Making

This is the first federally built hospital in Ensenada in over 60 years. After some partial operation last year, the hospital is now officially open and ready to get to work. The site was donated by the state government, and today marks the full launch.

Local officials—Governor Marina del Pilar and Secretary of Health José Adrián Medina—are also attending. Just one thing to note: while the building is top-notch, the staffing and supplies still need to catch up. Progress, but not perfection.

The President’s Health Tour

Sheinbaum’s not just stopping in Baja. She’s on a larger tour of IMSS Bienestar facilities nationwide. This program is part of a broader push to deliver health services to people who’ve been left out of Mexico’s social security system.

The federal government is teaming up with states like Baja California to ensure staffing, meds, and funding actually show up where they’re needed. A good start, but the work’s just beginning.

🌮 Bonus Tip: Sheinbaum Before Seafood

Now here’s a local hack: if you’re heading to Cocina la Baja 2025 at Estero Beach this afternoon, guess what’s right on the way? Yep—the new hospital. Swing by, snap a photo with the President, and send it our way!

Oh, and while you’re hunting oysters and abalone later, keep your eyes peeled for Leonardo Quintero. He’ll be covering Cocina la Baja for us today. Tell him we said hi—and maybe share your best bite.

Projecto El Sauzal: Ask the President

If you’ve got questions—like what’s happening with El Sauzal port or road upgrades, or how this hospital ties into broader regional plans—today’s your chance. Residents have concerns about the El Sauzal megaproyecto, including environmental risks and changes to the local economy  . The President and your local officials will be there—drop by, ask away, and get informed.

🟣 No Bad News. Just fresh hospitals, fresh seafood, and fresh reasons to celebrate Baja.

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Trapped, Sick, Forgotten: Ensenada’s 300 Dogs Find Hope
 Articles, Breaking News, Humane Society

300 Rescued Dogs and a Shelter’s Dirty Secret in Ensenada

Neighbors Knew Something Was Wrong

Since 2021, locals near a dog shelter in Ensenada had been complaining. They said something smelled bad—literally and figuratively. They weren’t wrong.

In July 2025, things finally came to a head. A multi-agency raid exposed what may be one of the worst shelter scandals Baja has seen. And yes, it’s exactly as bad as it sounds.

We’ve always backed animal groups. We’ve covered rescue stories and wagged tails across these pages. But when a rescue turns into a rotting kennel of disease and death, it’s time to stop applauding and start reporting.

The Shelter That Hid a Horror

The shelter, Ellos son la Razón (“They Are the Reason”), operated for years without a license, vet, or basic hygiene. In 2023, shocking photos led the city to shut it down—briefly. Still, dogs kept coming, and the problems stacked up.

The director, Keila Rodríguez, said many dogs arrived already sick. That may be true, but by July 2025, it was clear no one was getting better inside those walls.

The Raid That Changed Everything

Between July 5 and 6, a court-approved raid led by Baja’s Prosecutor’s Office and the city of Ensenada uncovered the truth: 300 dogs packed into small, filthy rooms. Some rooms held up to 35 animals. There was no clean water, no drainage, and plenty of fleas, feces, and rotting remains.

Veterinarians found cases of distemper, mange, transmissible tumors, and cancer. Some dogs were too far gone. They had to be euthanized. Others were treated immediately and transferred to real clinics.

Rescue, Treatment, and Real Help

Municipal and state vets stepped in fast. Norma Olimpia Guerrero and Wilber Agumada Torres led medical evaluations. With help from certified shelters, they began treatment, rehab, and a plan to rehome the dogs responsibly.

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila backed the effort and promised tighter shelter regulations in Baja. The city pledged ongoing support—meds, food, vet teams, and transport.

It wasn’t just a clean-up. It was a full system reboot.

300 Rescued Dogs and a Shelter’s Dirty Secret in Ensenada
00 dogs packed into small, filthy rooms
Veterinarians found cases

Legal Action and What’s Next

Two investigations are now open—one from mid-2024 and one from this July. While no arrests have been made yet, authorities issued penalties and are preparing further charges.

The case is already changing how Baja thinks about animal protection. Officials are working on stricter rules, regular inspections, and real accountability for shelters.

Want to Help? You Can.

If this story breaks your heart, good. That means you’re human. And you can help.

The rescued dogs are currently under the care of government-led veterinary teams and are being assessed for relocation. While they are not being housed by independent shelters, you can still support the work of permitted and trustworthy rescue groups like Los Adoptables, Guillermina’s Sanctuary, 4 Patas, and Ayudando a los Animales—who continue rescuing and caring for animals across Ensenada.

If you’re thinking of donating, in-kind support is always best. Shelters often need food, medicine, cleaning supplies, and blankets more than anything.

Pro tip: Ask questions. Visit in person. If the place avoids showing you the kennels—run.

You can also check Petfinder for adoptable pets near Ensenada or contact the Centro de Atención Animal for verified information.

The Ruff Reality

Good intentions aren’t enough. Rescue means care, structure, and vet support—not just stacked cages and forgotten animals.

This shelter claimed the dogs were “the reason.” And you know what? They still are.

But now, thanks to loud neighbors, brave vets, and some much-needed pressure, these dogs finally have a reason to hope.

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Baja’s Wine Guide Wins Global Gold at Gourmand Awards
 Articles, Ensenada, Wine

Vinitácora Puts Baja Wine on the World Stage

If you thought Baja’s wine scene was just local buzz, think again. Vinitácora: Wines and Wineries of Baja California just snagged the world title for Wine Guides at the Gourmand Awards 2025 in Portugal—beating out publications from over 60 countries . ¡Salud!

What’s the Gourmand Award?

Known as the “Oscars of food and wine books,” the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards have celebrated stellar gastronomic literature since 1995, with over 200 countries competing annually . In 2025, winners were announced in Estoril, Portugal—where Vinitácora took first place for Best Wine Guide worldwide  .

Why Vinitácora Stands Out

This isn’t just a pretty picture book. Vinitácora offers deep dive coverage of 80+ wineries, 900 wines, and all seven valleys that define Baja’s wine map  . Organized, bilingual, and user-friendly, it’s built for wine travelers—whether you’re Instagram-savvy or GPS-wary  .

Vinitácora: More Than a Guide

Founded by sommelier-authors Lorena Hernández (Vionda) and Fabián Jáuregui, the guide isn’t just a list—it’s a living tool. They’re celebrating 10 years of highlighting Mexico’s wine regions—covering Valle de Guadalupe and touching Aguascalientes and California too  .

In Portugal, they stole the spotlight with a special tasting event in Cascais, showcasing flagship Baja wineries like Adobe Guadalupe, Casa de Piedra, and Vena Cava  .

What This Means for Baja

Baja’s Secretary of Tourism, Miguel Aguíñiga Rodríguez, praised the win as proof that the region is now an international wine powerhouse  . Vinitácora’s award-winning content, maps, expert notes, and aesthetic design convinced judges worldwide  .

Local winery owners say this kind of shine can turn corks into visitors—and shipments. It’s marketing gold for Baja’s wine tourism industry  .

A Toast to the Future

With this global medal, Baja California not only cements its title as the Capital of Mexican Wine—it doubles down. Backed by Vinitácora’s credibility, the Tourism Secretariat plans to promote it at international fairs and tastings  .

🟣 No Bad News. Just big sips and even bigger wins for Baja.

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Cocina la Baja Serves Up 24,000 Reasons to Be Hungry
 Articles, Cuisine, Ensenada

Cocina la Baja Is Back with 24,000 Tastes You’ll Love

If you thought Ensenada couldn’t get any tastier… think again. Cocina la Baja returns next weekend with 24,000 reasons to loosen your belt and hit the coast.

This isn’t just a food festival—it’s the seafood showdown of the year, mixing chefs, students, scientists, and shellfish in one big Baja-style feast. Set your reminders now: the flavor storm lands on Saturday, July 12 at Estero Beach, starting at 2:00 p.m.

Tacos, Tuna, and Talent

This isn’t your average fish taco party. We’re talking about a culinary lineup of fishermen, aquaculture producers, and top Baja chefs, all dishing out the best of what the sea has to offer. From oysters and clams to smoked marlin and bluefin tuna—you’ll need both hands, an appetite, and probably a nap after.

A panel of expert judges and festival-goers (yes, that includes you) will crown the most popular dish with the People’s Choice Award. So come hungry, come opinionated.

Students Face Off for Seafood Bragging Rights

Before the main event, things heat up on Friday, July 11, with the Reto Culinario—a student cooking challenge at UABC El Sauzal. Culinary students from all over Baja will battle it out with guidance from real producers, local chefs, and academics.

And yes, there’s a trophy: the Minerva Pérez Castro Award, honoring one of Baja’s loudest champions for seafood, sustainability, and future foodies.

Winners of Cocina la Baja 2024. Photo courtesy of SEPESCA.

It’s a Festival with a Message

Beyond the flavor, Cocina la Baja is about knowing your food—where it comes from, how it’s raised, and why it matters.

You’ll find booths from CONAPESCA, EDF México, Pronatura Noroeste, and even Baja Aquafarms, sharing cool facts about species like bluefin tuna and Baja’s underwater ecosystems. Expect hands-on exhibits for kids in the Mangrove Pavilion, live cooking demos, and lots of info you didn’t know you wanted.

Yes, it’s family-friendly. Yes, it’s ocean-friendly. Yes, there will be ceviche.

How to Get In

Tickets are still available on Eventbrite (https://cocinalabaja2025.eventbrite.com.mx), or swing by SEPESCA BC, La Q BajaMed, or UMAI Progressive Asian Food to grab yours in person. And heads up: this thing fills up fast.

So if your July plans don’t yet include standing on the beach with a cold drink and a plate of grilled octopus in your hand… you might want to fix that.

🟣 No Bad News. Just good seafood, good vibes, and the best bites in Baja.

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Tochella 2025 Hits Hard with 380 Teams and Baja Heat
 Articles, Ensenada, Sports

Tochella 2025: 380 Teams, Big Plays, and Baja Vibes

Ensenada usually serves up wine tastings, scenic strolls, and seafood towers—but this weekend, it’s all about touchdowns and flag-grabbing glory.

From July 3 to 6, the Tochella Flag Festival has taken over the Raúl Ramírez Lozano Sports Complex—better known to locals as Ciudad Deportiva de Valle Dorado—and turned it into a full-blown flag football battleground. With 380 teams from all over Mexico (and a few from the U.S.), this thing is officially huge.

Not Just a Game—It’s a Movement

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz called Tochella one of the biggest sporting events in the region, right behind Baja’s legendary off-road races. And she’s not exaggerating—between players, coaches, and their families, thousands rolled into town for the four-day showdown.

“For us, events like this are a win-win,” said Agatón. “They promote physical activity, but they also boost the local economy—from street vendors to hotel owners.”

Flags, Footwork, and Fresh Kicks

This isn’t a friendly neighborhood scrimmage. Tochella features 5-on-5 matchups with real stakes, elite divisions, and serious talent—like the kind that can juke you out of your sandals before breakfast.

Games have been running from 6:00 a.m. until sundown, with finals set for today, Sunday, July 6. And while the action on the field is intense, the off-field vibe is pure festival: DJs, food stands, merch booths, and even sneaker-cleaning stations.

If you’ve ever wanted to watch a touchdown while eating ceviche and bobbing your head to reggaetón, this is your moment.

Meet the Minds Behind the Madness

The mayor gave a well-earned shoutout to the brains behind Tochella:

  • Luis Fernando Gutiérrez Acosta, Defensive Coach and World Champ with Mexico’s Women’s National Team.
  • Iván Méndez, U-20 national team player and world silver medalist.
  • Luis Moreno, the organizer who helped make all this happen.

Agatón also said her administration is committed to improving the sports complex’s courts, aiming to make Ensenada a prime destination for international tournaments.

Still Time to Catch the Action

Haven’t been yet? No problem. Entry is totally free, and today’s finals promise some of the best flag football you’ll see this year. Whether you’re in it for the sport or the snacks, Ciudad Deportiva is the place to be.

Want to follow the brackets or check who’s still undefeated in the Femenil D1 division?

Check out @tochella_flag_festival on Instagram—it’s got everything from game schedules to crowd highlights.

🟣 No Bad News. Just high-fives, highlight reels, and a whole lot of heart.

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State Government invites the community to help create a mural promoting the end of gender-based violence.
 Articles

Paint for Justice: Mexicali Invites Locals to Join a Powerful Mural Project

Think your doodles could make a difference? Mexicali is handing you a paintbrush—and a cause.

The Centro de Justicia para las Mujeres (CEJUM) which means Women’s Justice Center, alongside Baja’s Secretary of Culture, is inviting locals to take part in a community mural with a bold message: end gender violence and support real equality.

This isn’t just art for art’s sake. The mural will live on the outer walls of the new CEJUM building, which is about to open its doors to women seeking support after experiencing violence. The center will offer legal help, psychological care, and social services—all under one roof.

Not Just Pretty Paint

Magdalena Bautista, CEJUM’s director, said it best: “This mural is more than a work of art—it’s a statement.” Every brushstroke is meant to remind us that we can build a future where women live free of fear, with access to justice and respect.

Alma Delia Ábrego, Baja’s Secretary of Culture, chimed in with heart: “This mural is a way to reflect on gender violence—and create hope.” It’s not just color on concrete. It’s a voice. A message. A reminder.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to be a pro. First-timers, families, students, art collectives—everyone’s welcome. If you’ve ever held a paintbrush, or even just liked a mural on Instagram, you’re in.

State Government invites the community to help create a mural promoting the end of gender-based violence.

A Mural with Meaning

The project follows the vision of Governor Marina del Pilar: use art not just to beautify, but to heal, support, and inspire. The mural is meant to send a clear message—this is a space where women are safe, heard, and empowered.

So whether you’re a muralist or just someone with something to say, here’s your shot to leave a mark on something that matters.

Want In?

To join the project, just email your name, age, and a quick blurb about yourself to:

📧 dmexicali.cjm@gmail.com. No fancy portfolio needed. Just your time, your energy, and a little heart.

Because sometimes, change starts with color.

🟣 No Bad News. Just bright walls and big messages.

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Baja Buyers Beware: Most Agents Aren’t Even Licensed
 Articles

This Simple Check Could Save Your Baja Dream Home

We get it—buying a house in Baja sounds dreamy. Ocean breeze, fish tacos, and a fresh start. But if you’re buying from someone who isn’t licensed… you might be buying trouble.

The Risk Is Real

Right now, more than 80% of people selling real estate in Baja California don’t have a license. They just decided one day, “Hey, I sell houses now!” And poof—they’re in business.

Only around 350 agents are officially licensed, out of more than 2,000 working the market. So when you hear someone say “my cousin can show you some lots,” maybe ask what paperwork he’s actually got.

Time to Clean Up

The State Economic Planning Office is trying to fix this. They just launched 100 free training spots for people who actually want to learn the rules and get legal.

The 40-hour course is the first step to getting the real deal: a state license and a spot on the official registry. That list separates the legit folks from the ones selling swamp land in Rosarito “with a view.”

At the recent “Semana del Inmobiliario 2025,” state officials, real estate leaders, and a few sharp-dressed agents came together to push this message: If you’re selling homes, get licensed—or get out of the way.

Why You Should Care

Because it’s your money. And your house. And if anything goes wrong, you don’t want to hear “well, I didn’t know I needed to mention that lien.”

Unlicensed sellers:

  • Don’t follow any rules.
  • Can vanish after the sale.
  • Probably don’t know what they’re doing.

Licensed agents, on the other hand, are at least on the record. If they mess up, you can find them. That alone is worth more than a handshake.

✅ What Buyers Should Do

  • Ask for their license. It’s a number, not a vibe.
  • Check they’re listed on the state registry. Don’t just take their word for it.
  • Don’t get blinded by “deals.” Cheap now could mean costly later.
Buying a house in Baja? Ask for a license. Not a vibe. Photo by Oliver Quintero

Final Word

Look—we’re not trying to scare you. But if you buy a house from someone who isn’t licensed, don’t say nobody warned you. When it comes to real estate, the only thing worse than paying too much is paying twice.

Baja’s housing market is hot. But the smartest move you can make? Buy with someone who actually knows what they’re doing—and has the license to prove it.

🟣 No Bad News. Just the stuff you wish someone told you sooner.

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