Love at the Beach, Visa Lost at the Border

No charges, no scandals, just a mysterious visa revocation

It’s not every day that a sitting Mexican governor loses her U.S. visa. But here we are. On May 11, Baja California’s governor, Marina del Pilar Ávila, confirmed that both she and her husband, Carlos Torres Torres, had their U.S. tourist visas revoked.

No midnight raids, no courtroom battles—just a quiet click from the folks over at the U.S. State Department. The couple made the announcement through social media, saying it’s an “administrative decision.” That’s government-speak for: we’re not gonna tell you why, but we did it anyway.

So far, no formal accusations, no legal action in Mexico or the U.S., and no indication of wrongdoing. According to both Marina and Carlos, their records are clean, and they’re hopeful this gets resolved soon. She remains calm, collected, and confident. He says it’s politics. We say… welcome to borderland bureaucracy.

Carlos, in case you’re wondering, is the state’s Coordinator for Strategic Projects. So yes, he’s on the government payroll too—and now, apparently, also off the guest list at the San Diego Costco.

The U.S. Embassy, true to form, has said absolutely nothing. And while this kind of visa revocation isn’t exactly rare, it is unusual when it involves high-level public figures. Naturally, people are asking: what’s going on behind the scenes?

Photo from Marina del Pilar’s Facebook account – U.S. Consul General in Tijuana, Christopher Teal, meets with Governor Marina del Pilar on May 8 to discuss security matters.
Photo from Marina del Pilar’s Facebook account – U.S. Consul General in Tijuana, Christopher Teal, meets with Governor Marina del Pilar on May 8 to discuss security matters..

Is it political? Is it part of a broader U.S. policy shift? Or is it just some paperwork caught in a borderland paper shredder?

We’re not here to speculate. We’re here to report—without turning up the heat. There’s enough fire in the headlines already.

As for Marina, she’s still in office, still traveling around Baja, and still active on Instagram. No signs of slowing down.

📣 What do you think? Overreaction or red flag? Smart move or sloppy diplomacy? Let us know—we’re all ears at the Gringo Gazette North.

Because when it comes to cross-border drama, everyone’s got a visa story. This time, it just happens to be the governor’s.

Governor Marina Del Pilar leads a security meeting with federal, state, and local authorities to coordinate public safety efforts

Baja Residents Surrender 169 guns + 2 grenades

On Thursday, May 8, Baja officials announced the results of their latest disarmament campaign—and the numbers are wild.

In Tijuana, citizens turned in a total of 97 handguns, 70 long guns, 2 grenades, and over 9,000 cartridges. That’s not all—they also handed over more than 5,000 detonating capsules, several magazines, and 22 fully automatic rifles. Yes, from regular homes.

The program, led by Baja California’s State Attorney General’s Office (FGEBC) and the Secretary of Governance, is part of a statewide push to reduce violence by getting weapons off the streets—and out of living rooms.

Photo: Governor Marina Del Pilar leads a security meeting with federal, state, and local authorities to coordinate public safety efforts

Authorities praised the public’s cooperation and noted that all collected weapons will be forensically examined and then destroyed. According to the state, the goal isn’t just about gun control—it’s about building trust between citizens and law enforcement.

So far, this is only phase one, and officials say results have exceeded expectations. More rounds of the campaign are expected soon, possibly expanding to other municipalities.

🔫 From pistols to military-grade rifles, it’s clear: some Baja homes were armed like bunkers. Fortunately, many of those weapons are now out of circulation.

For more eyebrow-raising updates like this one, stick with Gringo Gazette North—we keep it locked and loaded.

Ensenada 911 Line Drops

Ensenada’s 911 Line Drops the Ball

If calling 911 in Ensenada lately has felt like shouting into the void, you’re not imagining it.

The FGEBC (Baja California’s State Attorney General’s Office) confirmed on Thursday that the 911 emergency line is having technical issues. Calls may not go through, and if they do, don’t expect the usual speedy response.

The Citizen Security Secretariat says it’s working with C5 command centers to fix it. But until then, they suggest using the 911 Móvil BC” app. Here’s the catch: that app has a lovely 3.0 out of 5 stars on the App Store. So… good luck.

#911 Movil BC App
#911 Movil BC App

For now, authorities advise calling local emergency numbers directly if the line fails. And yes, they’re thanking you for your patience while they figure this mess out.

We hope nobody has to test this system in a real crisis, because a dropped emergency call and a buggy backup app isn’t exactly a confidence booster.

☎️ One job. Just one job.

Stay with Gringo Gazette North—because we answer when others don’t.

Wildlife Shocker: Tijuana Cops Rescue Tiger, Monkeys, and More

In a wild twist, Mexican authorities uncovered what felt more like a jungle than a city home. This weekend, things got wild in Tijuana. The FGR (Federal Attorney General’s Office) and the FGEBC (Baja California State Attorney General’s Office) raided a home in colonia Buena Vista. What they found looked more like a zoo than a house.

Inside, officers rescued a Siberian tiger, a mandrill, and a spider monkey. They also found a snapping turtle, two horned owls, a lilac-crowned parrot, three bearded dragons, a chameleon, and a tarantula. Yes, all in one place.

  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana

The suspect, Juan José “O.”, was arrested. Along with the animals, he had firearms and military-only ammo. Not exactly pet supplies.

One of the animals—the spider monkey—is protected under Mexican law. So now, the suspect faces charges for both illegal animal possession and weapons violations.

Authorities say the animals were not living in proper conditions. Luckily, someone sent an anonymous tip, and now these animals are in safer hands.

This wasn’t just a weird pet story. It shows how the illegal exotic animal trade is still a problem—even in the suburbs.

🐅 Tigers, tarantulas, and tactical gear. Just another Wednesday in Baja.

Stay tuned to Gringo Gazette North—where the news is wild, and the jokes are free.

Artwalk Rosarito Brings Color, Culture, and Connection

Looking for a weekend that feeds your soul and your stomach? Rosarito has you covered.

Artwalk Rosarito returns May 24 and 25 to the CEART Playas de Rosarito, and this year’s edition isn’t just another stroll through art booths.

It’s a celebration of creativity, cross-border connection, and Baja’s unbeatable vibes.


Over 40 Artists, One Giant Weekend

Expect a lively mix of painters, sculptors, designers, and artisans—more than 40 in total. They’ll be showcasing their work in the open-air plaza, where conversation flows as easily as craft beer and coastal breeze.

One of the highlights? A featured exhibit titled “The Line That Connects: Cross-Border Connections.” This one digs into the artistic and cultural bonds between Mexico and the U.S. It’s powerful. It’s timely. It’s exactly what this region needs.


Not Just Art—It’s a Full Baja Experience

There’s more than just eye candy. Artwalk will also serve up:

  • Live literary and stage performances
  • A foodie zone with local bites and beverages
  • A welcoming, pet-friendly vibe
  • And yes—free entry for all

If it sounds like a chill time, that’s because it is.


Featured Artist: Francisco Javier Macías Rosales

Hailing from Aguascalientes and now based in Puebla, Francisco Javier Macías Rosales brings 50 years of creative fire. His family were metalworkers and foundry artists. Today, his work honors that heritage while pushing boundaries.

When his pieces speak, you listen.


When & Where

📅 May 24–25

📍 CEART Playas de Rosarito

💸 Admission: Free

🐾 Pets welcome


Final Word?

Bring your friends. Bring your family. Bring your dog. Just don’t miss it.

Rosarito’s not just throwing an art show—it’s throwing a reminder that culture doesn’t need a passport.

Hand Hygiene Day

🧼 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.

CESPT crews working

Water Outage in Otay: CESPT Nears Completion on Emergency Repair

Since Sunday, several neighborhoods in Otay have gone without water. A busted 18-inch pipe on Bellas Artes Boulevard caused the disruption. CESPT crews identified the break and started repairs immediately.

The affected area includes Otay Módulos in Nueva Tijuana. Workers have battled through mud and tight conditions to replace the damaged section. This morning, May 5, CESPT announced they had reached 80% completion on the job.

They expect to finish repairs around 1:00 p.m.. After that, water service will gradually return to the neighborhoods.

Many residents, frustrated by the lack of notice, scrambled to adjust. Some stocked up on bottled water. Others just hoped the fix would hold longer than the last one.

CESPT crews working on 18-inch pipe in Otay after water service disruption

Photo: CESPT crews working on 18-inch pipe in Otay after water service disruption

Crews stayed on-site through the night, pushing to wrap up the work before Monday rush hour — or at least before dinner. In Otay, water breaks are a recurring guest.

💧 Water’s political. Thirst is personal. Stay tuned for updates — and in the meantime, maybe skip laundry day.

Cinco de Mayo, 2025 Edition

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Aleta Azul (Bluefin)

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.

Bus Gets Stuck

Bus Gets Stuck, Snarls Traffic on Calle Ruíz and Ámbar

This morning in Ensenada, a bus got stuck in a dip at the intersection of Calle Ruíz and Ámbar, causing a serious traffic slowdown.

According to witnesses, the driver didn’t notice the shallow but sneaky dip in the road and ended up wedged halfway in. It’s the same dip locals have warned about before, but this time it trapped a whole bus. A backhoe was brought in to help, followed by a cement truck attempting to assist.

As of 9:20 a.m., the bus was still there, with just one police officer managing the chaos. Drivers in the area reported long delays and confusion.

📍If you’re headed through this part of town, take another route. And if you’re behind the wheel of a larger vehicle — slow down and stay alert, especially on familiar streets. You never know when a “little dip” turns into a big problem.

Photos taken on the scene show the unusual rescue effort in action. We’ve posted them below.

🚨 When buses bounce into dips, we bring you the bumpy details — only at the Gringo Gazette North.

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