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Breaking News

Punta Piedra’s New ‘Misión’ Project Boosts Baja

Baja California’s coastline just got even more appealing with the introduction of the new ‘Misión’ section of Punta Piedra, a stunning residential and tourist complex in the coastal corridor of La Misión. This exciting expansion promises not only breathtaking views but also a significant economic boost, generating over 1,500 jobs during its construction phase.

Andrés Martínez Bremer, the CEO of Grupo Luva, proudly announced the creation of 500 direct and over 1,000 indirect jobs through this project. He paid tribute to the original developers, Enrique Lutteroth Camou and Roberto Curiel Ortega, who started Punta Piedra over three decades ago. Bremer emphasized that Punta Piedra has grown to include ‘Misión,’ a place designed to offer an exceptional lifestyle where nature and sophistication come together to provide a unique experience for residents.

Strategically nestled between Ensenada and Tijuana, near the La Misión bridge, Punta Piedra offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Its proximity to San Diego, California, adds an extra layer of convenience for residents and visitors alike. Bremer also highlighted the additional allure of being close to the famed Ruta del Vino in Valle de Guadalupe, making it a prime spot for food and wine enthusiasts.

The new ‘Misión’ section will feature 70 residences, available in four different models ranging from 172 to 249 square meters. These homes will be equipped with advanced technology to ensure maximum comfort and efficiency. Prices will vary depending on the model and other unique features, but one thing is for sure: Punta Piedra is all about exclusivity. The development emphasizes sustainability, with homes featuring solar panels, water-saving systems, and facilities for electric vehicles.

Miguel Aguiñiga Rodríguez, the Secretary of Tourism for Baja California, emphasized that such investments enhance the state’s competitiveness, attracting significant projects and positioning Baja California as a prime destination for investment. He highlighted that the vision of Grupo Luva supports the efforts of Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda in attracting capital to the state, generating employment, revenue, and ensuring the state’s reputation as a key player in the country. The ceremonial event also saw attendance from the elected mayor, Claudia Agatón Muñiz, and Lucía Aguirre, the municipal government’s director of economy.

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 Breaking News, Ensenada

New Tourist Marina Set to Transform Ensenada’s Port Area

Get Ready for “Ventana al Mar”: Ensenada’s Shiny New Waterfront Gem

The Ensenada port is getting a fabulous makeover, folks! The National Port System Administration (Asipona) has announced an exciting new project: a state-of-the-art tourist marina called “Ventana al Mar.” This marina isn’t just about docking boats; it’s a whole experience with fuel stations, restaurants, commercial areas, and much more.

Covering an impressive 12,000 square meters of prime maritime real estate right next to the current cruise terminal, “Ventana al Mar” promises to be a bustling hub for both locals and tourists. The marina will be leased for 19 years with an option to renew for another 19, making it a long-term fixture in Ensenada’s waterfront.

Think of “Ventana al Mar” as more than just a marina. It’s set to offer a range of services including public port services for recreational and sports boats, specialized operations like embarkation and disembarkation, rope mooring, in-water repairs, and supply services (water, fuel, internet, and waste collection). There will also be diving services, maritime inspections, and a vibrant commercial area with restaurants and shops.

To be part of this grand project, participants (whether individuals or companies, Mexican or foreign) need to show they have at least 25 million pesos in assets. The leaseholder will pay Asipona an initial fee, a fixed annual fee, and a variable fee based on income from services provided in the area. If you’re interested, you need to buy the bidding documents by June 11, 2024, for a cool 200,000 pesos. Proposals will be reviewed on October 30, 2024.

Asipona will evaluate proposals based on technical criteria and the highest initial fee offered. In the event of a tie, the winner will be the one promising the highest investment in the marina’s construction and equipment before it opens.

This project, detailed in the official federal gazette on May 28, is spearheaded by Vice Admiral Joel Sandoval Gómez, the head of Asipona Ensenada.

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 Border, Breaking News

Ensenada – San Diego Ferry Service Set to Sail in Five Months

Get ready to mark your calendars! The long-awaited Ensenada to San Diego ferry service is set to launch in just five months, promising a scenic and efficient new way to cross the border. Kurt Ignacio Honold Morales, the Secretary of Economy and Innovation of Baja California, has announced that all environmental hurdles have been cleared, with the necessary engines, which meet California’s strict standards, already purchased and on their way.

This maritime link, operated by Azteca Ferries, will offer daily round trips capable of transporting 330 passengers. The project, a collaborative effort between various governmental bodies including the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Coast Guard, aims to provide a faster, more enjoyable alternative to the traditional border crossing methods.

Priced between $30 to $50, though not yet finalized, the ferry is viewed not just as a tourist attraction but as a crucial infrastructural expansion that will enhance bi-national cooperation. The service will initially cater only to passengers, with potential future expansions to include vehicle transport, turning the ports of Ensenada and San Diego into bustling hubs of activity.

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 Breaking News, Ensenada

Get Ready for the Roar on the Shore! The Baja 500 is Here

The Baja California Peninsula is revving up for the much-anticipated Baja 500 off-road race, a rugged, adrenaline-pumping event set from May 29 to June 2, 2024. This wild race will roar through the landscapes of Ensenada, starting and ending right by the cultural hotspot, the Riviera del Pacífico.

For those looking to catch the action up close, there are designated viewing areas along the route which promise great visibility without compromising safety. These spots are perfect for fans who want to experience the thunderous excitement of engines and the gritty determination of the racers.

Safety is a top priority, with Baja California’s Civil Protection issuing guidelines to ensure everyone enjoys the event safely. They’ve advised spectators to keep at a safe distance from the race path, stay hydrated, and use sun protection during the sunny race days.

Ensenada’s downtown area will feel the race’s pulse too, with several roads, including sections of the Bulevar Costero, temporarily closed to manage the race and ensure smooth operations from start to finish.

With the support of various organizations and local government, the Baja 500 not only promises high-octane excitement but also boosts local tourism and business. It’s not just a race; it’s a celebration of motorsport culture, right in the heart of Baja California!

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 Articles, Breaking News, Rosarito, Tijuana

Playas de Tijuana and Rosarito Declare Beaches Fit for Fun!

Good news, beach lovers! Both Playas de Tijuana and Rosarito have rolled out the blue carpets, inviting everyone to enjoy their sparkling sands and clear waters. After months of efforts and environmental vigilance, these popular coastal spots are ready to make your beach day dreams come true.

Playas de Tijuana: From No-Go to Go-Go!

It wasn’t looking good for a while there. With high levels of enterococcus bacteria—yes, that’s the yucky stuff from sewage spills—Tijuana’s beaches were a no-go zone for months. But thanks to the tireless efforts of the ‘Proyecto Ambiental Fronterizo’ and various local campaigns, the tides have turned. As of late May 2024, after relentless monitoring and cleaning, the Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (COEPRIS) has given Playas de Tijuana the green light. They’re not just open; they’re officially safe for all your beachside frolicking. Let’s just hope they stay that way for a while.

Rosarito’s Center Beach: The Place to Be!

Moving down the coast to Rosarito, things are looking equally sunny. Center Beach has passed recent water quality tests with flying colors, showing levels of enterococcus well below the threshold of concern. Thanks to continuous improvements in beach surveillance and the commitment of local lifeguards—who train rigorously three times a week to keep their rescue chops up—beachgoers can rest easy. And to top it off, vehicle access to the beaches has been restricted to keep the sands safe and serene.

Both cities have seen remarkable community and governmental collaboration, demonstrating a stellar commitment to environmental health and public safety. From closed beaches marred by pollution to thriving recreational hotspots, Playas de Tijuana and Rosarito are clean, clear, and utterly inviting.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab that beach towel, slap on some sunscreen, and head to these beaches. Whether you’re building sandcastles, catching waves, or just soaking up some rays, these clean coastal gems are the place to be. Remember, though, the battle for clean beaches continues, and it’s up to all of us to keep them beautiful. Pack your trash, use those bins, and let’s keep our sands as clean as our fun is wild!

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 Articles, Breaking News, Rosarito, Tecate, Tijuana

Gasoline Shortage Hits Tijuana, Tecate, and Rosarito!

Buckle up, folks! The gasoline shortage has hit Tijuana, Tecate, and Rosarito, and it’s not pretty. Carlos Roberto Rubio Arreola, the head honcho of the Onexpo Baja Gas Station Association in Tijuana, spilled the beans: some gas stations are already dry. Why? Because Pemex-Rosarito has hit the brakes on fuel distribution, thanks to a never-ending blockade by the residents of Maclovio Rojas, who are fed up with the lack of solutions to their property title issues.

Carlos Roberto mentioned that they’ve been chatting with Pemex to fix the mess, but as of this Tuesday, some Tijuana stations have already hung up the “No Gas” signs. Since last Sunday night, the residents of Maclovio Rojas set up camp and blocked the fuel trucks at the Pemex plant in Playas de Rosarito. Their gripe? Authorities aren’t paying attention to their property title problems.

Onexpo Baja confirmed in an official statement that their members are worried. Not only is Pemex unable to deliver fuel, but the authorized distributors are also stuck in the same boat.

Rubio Arreola warned that the problem is getting worse by the day, causing more and more gas stations to run dry. Onexpo promises to keep us in the loop about the efforts to restore fuel supplies and hopes for a quick and lasting solution to the Pemex Distribution Plant conflict. They’re as clueless about the root of the problem as we are, dear citizens.

If you can still find a gas station with fuel, fill up while you can. Some stations have already shut down, and who knows when they’ll be back in action. Good luck, and may the gas gods be with you!

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 Articles, Arts & Literature, Breaking News, Events, Rosarito

Get Ready for the Sassy Fine Art Festival 2024!

Rosarito is about to get a whole lot sassier! On Saturday, June 8th, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, Hacienda Km 43 will host the Sassy Fine Art Festival. This all-day event promises a feast for the senses, featuring 23 of northern Baja’s finest artists, live music, delicious food from Chef Santos, and three fully stocked bars. It’s set to be a day of pure enjoyment.

The festival, inspired by the talents of Marlen Caster and Polo Valencia, will showcase a range of artistic brilliance. Marlen Caster’s glowing-in-the-dark artwork highlights the tragedy of discarded fishing nets in the sea. Her pieces are nothing short of mesmerizing. Polo Valencia, a seasoned artist with a gallery in Popotla since 1988, has helped curate the festival’s lineup. Polo’s gallery has attracted celebrities like Mel Gibson and James Cameron, and he has a knack for discovering incredible talent.

Adding to the excitement, Canadian author Marnie Ross, now residing in San Felipe, will be present to share her Baja-set murder mystery series. Young talents Maky Garcia Romero, and brothers Tonatiuh and Emiliano Ramírez, are also set to impress with their work.

The entertainment lineup is equally stellar. World-class violinist Jose Enrique Tovar, formerly of the Venezuelan Symphony Orchestra, will perform. Jose, now living in Mexico, is renowned for his versatility, seamlessly switching from classical violin to fiddle.

Following Jose is Storyteller, a band of seasoned rockers guaranteed to get the crowd moving. Known for their infectious energy, drummer Todd and lead guitarist Dante, along with the rest of the band, promise to deliver a performance that will have everyone dancing.

The Sassy Fine Art Festival’s first year is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of art, music, and community. From stunning visual art to live performances and culinary delights, this event is all about enjoying the finer things in life.

Don’t miss out on what promises to be an unforgettable day at the Sassy Fine Art Festival!

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Photo by: Medina Gorosave, Mexicali
 Breaking News

A Night of Northern Lights in the Baja Skies

Baja California witnessed a rare and dazzling phenomenon on Friday May 10th night when the sky lit up with vibrant northern lights. This unexpected display was primarily visible in the northern regions of the state, leaving residents and visitors alike in awe. 

The spectacle quickly became the talk of the town as social media buzzed with stunning images shared by those lucky enough to catch a glimpse. One such viewer, Raúl Barrera, a rescue diver, posted breathtaking photos from Cañón de Guadalupe in Mexicali on his Facebook page. Meanwhile, in Ensenada, Blanca Azucena Bravo Navarro excitedly recounted her experience of spotting the lights while on the road with her family. 

“Driving on the Ensenada – Tecate highway with my dad and brother, we stopped in front of Testerazo to take photos,” she shared. 

Photo by Lauren-Akenson, Mount Laguna

According to local authorities, the geomagnetic activity responsible for this light show poses no danger to the population, though it may cause some telecommunications interference. The unusual appearance of the auroras in Baja California is linked to a particularly strong solar storm.  

The NOAA had issued a warning of a severe geomagnetic storm after a solar burst hit Earth, creating these stunning auroras. Typically, such displays are reserved for the polar regions, making this event a rare treat for the folks in Baja California. 

As the weekend progressed, the auroras continued to dance in the sky, with experts suggesting that Sunday night might offer another chance to witness this celestial wonder. So, keep your cameras ready and eyes to the sky; Baja California’s night show might not be over just yet. 

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 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, Events

Arena Valle de Guadalupe Opens Its Doors with a Bang!

Get ready, music lovers! The brand-new Arena Valle de Guadalupe is set to become Baja California’s premier entertainment hub, boasting a capacity of 10,000 and promising top-tier events. Although the arena is still a work in progress, the venue opened its doors to the press for an exclusive tour on May 16th, revealing its impressive architecture and design, all set against the stunning backdrop of the wine valley.

The grand opening concert will be headlined by none other than Christian Nodal on May 26th, marking the first of many spectacular events. Following Nodal, a star-studded lineup awaits: Carín León on June 8th, Ricky Martin on June 21st, Banda MS on June 22nd, and Los Aguilar on July 27th. And that’s just the beginning!

Nelly Sanoja, the arena’s representative, highlighted the venue’s modern yet regionally respectful design. Equipped with nearly 300 restrooms, 3,000 parking spaces, and advanced security systems, Arena Valle de Guadalupe is ready to welcome both national and international visitors. The venue also prides itself on its eco-friendly construction, featuring its own power substation and septic systems, and ensuring accessibility for all guests.

Photo courtesy of Alejandro Zepeda

Ricky Martin’s concert on June 21st is particularly anticipated, as he will be the first international artist to grace the new arena’s stage. Fans can expect a phenomenal show with Ricky’s greatest hits, including “Livin’ la Vida Loca” and “She Bangs” enhanced by a full symphony orchestra. Tickets range from 2,000 to 10,000 pesos, promising a high-quality visual and auditory experience.

Marco Santalices from InHouse, the production company behind the arena, assured that while a few final touches are still being made, the venue will be fully ready for Nodal’s concert. The arena’s long-term strategy already includes bookings up to 2025, big names like J.Lo, Michael Bublé, Andrea Bocelli, Raw Alejandro, and Maluma are already being mentioned while Luis Miguel is said to be already confirmed to perform, with the date to be announced soon.

Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience world-class performances in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe!

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 Breaking News

Baja California Joins Global Fight Against Discrimination

Today, the world celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT), a time to champion inclusivity and combat discrimination. This year’s theme emphasizes “Justicia Social y Económica para Todas las Personas,” urging societies to ensure economic justice and social protection for all, without exceptions based on gender identity or sexual orientation​.

Here in Baja California, the celebration resonates deeply. As one of the Mexican states with a smaller LGBTI population, Baja California prides itself on fostering an inclusive environment, despite challenges. The state’s authorities and activists are continuously working to push forward rights and acceptance​.

This day also marks an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of identities, and advocate for the ongoing struggle against discrimination. By participating in or supporting your local LGBTQ+ community, everyone can contribute to a more inclusive world where everyone, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, has equal opportunities to thrive.

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