Turns out, a little beach cleanup goes a long way.
This Tuesday, July 1st, Playa Hermosa in Ensenada wasn’t just sun and sand—it was gloves, trash bags, and a team effort. State Secretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture (SEPESCA BC), Alma Rosa García Juárez, showed up with her crew for a cleanup event organized as part of the National Week Against Sanitary Risks.
And they weren’t alone. Red Cross volunteers also joined the effort, rolling up their sleeves to help clear the coast.
From Sand to Seafood
Alma Rosa didn’t just show up for a photo op. She’s been vocal about how clean beaches create a ripple effect—benefiting everything from marine life to food safety.
Her team reminded everyone that clean sand means cleaner water, which is key for aquaculture. That’s especially true for shellfish like oysters, mussels, and clams—aka the pride of local seafood culture. When the water’s dirty, so is the product. Nobody wants plastic-flavored ceviche.
Floating trash and microplastics don’t just look gross—they release toxins, upset the pH of the water, and open the door for harmful bacteria. The result? Bad news for both fish and fishermen.
Trash-Free = Tourist-Ready
Beyond the seafood, there’s tourism. Because let’s be honest: no one’s booking an Airbnb next to a trash heap.
Baja’s already blessed with great weather. Add a sparkling coastline, and you’ve got a spot that sells itself. Clean beaches attract more visitors, boost local business, and keep the “Baja magic” alive.
This isn’t just about looking good—it’s about living better. As Alma Rosa said, a clean ecosystem reflects a healthy, inspired community.
Global Goals, Local Wins
There’s also the bigger picture. Beach cleanups tie directly into the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda—specifically climate action and marine life preservation. Who knew tossing a bottle in the right bin could help save the planet?
During the Playa Hermosa cleanup, Alma Rosa met with local leaders including COFEPRIS, the Baja State Health Department, and Ensenada’s ecology team. Their message was clear: clean beaches are a shared job—with shared benefits.
And with Red Cross volunteers pitching in too, it’s proof that Baja cares—from its officials to its citizens.
#Photo courtesy of SEPESCA BC, taken during the July 1st cleanup at Playa Hermosa—because protecting the ocean starts with cleaning up the shore.
What You Can Do
Don’t ghost your garbage. Take it with you.
Support recycling efforts. Even if it’s not glamorous.
Join the next cleanup. It’s cheaper than therapy and better for the ocean.
Clean beaches mean better seafood, healthier oceans, and a brighter Baja. Let’s keep the coast clear.
Security isn’t just talk in Baja California anymore—it’s action. And not the Hollywood kind.
A criminal gang that was shaking down business owners in Ensenada has been taken down. The charge? Cobro de piso—that ugly racket where criminals demand money in exchange for “protection.” Refuse to pay? They light your place on fire or spray your home with bullets. That’s exactly what happened to one local restaurateur.
But here’s the plot twist: he reported it. That one act of courage set off a chain of events that ended with four men in cuffs. Boom.
From Flames to Arrests
According to the State Attorney General, these suspects were tied not only to extortion in Ensenada but also to a homicide in Mexicali. After committing the murder, they tried to lie low back in Mexicali—unaware that investigators were already connecting the dots.
They weren’t just petty criminals, either. Authorities say they were part of an organized crime group dealing in drugs and human smuggling. One tip, one complaint, and the whole thing unraveled.
As the AG put it, “We needed a formal complaint to make this happen.” In other words: silence helps the criminals. Speaking up helps everyone else.
More Boots, More Brakes
This isn’t an isolated case. As we’ve reported this month on ggnorth.com, the Baja California government has ramped up security with more patrols, more agents, and more checkpoints—especially around high-traffic corridors like Tecate–Tijuana.
Some folks complain about the delays, but let’s be real. A few extra minutes in traffic is worth it if it means your car doesn’t end up stripped in a canyon. Besides, these stops are working.
A National Guard officer (who asked to stay anonymous) told us that just last week at the Tecate–Tijuana checkpoint, they recovered four stolen cars and seized illegal substances. So yeah, those checkpoints aren’t just slowing you down—they’re stopping crime.
Not Just Luck—A Plan
All of this is part of Baja’s broader plan to make safety a priority. And it’s showing. From Ensenada to Mexicali, authorities are coordinating efforts and connecting cases across cities. This is real policing, not PR.
Even better? It’s giving business owners and tourists a reason to breathe easier.
Still a Long Road
The authorities believe this isn’t the only group operating. More victims may be out there, afraid to speak up. But this case proves that one voice is enough to tip the scales.
So if someone’s trying to charge you for “protection,” don’t stay quiet. Report it. You’re not alone—and the law might just be a few steps behind them.
Here’s the Deal
Extortion ring: Busted.
Cars & drugs: Recovered.
Officers: Working overtime.
The state: Making security a priority.
Citizens: Starting to believe it.
This time, Baja isn’t reacting—it’s taking charge.
In Valle de Guadalupe, some wineries try way too hard to seem important. Symmetria doesn’t have to. It doesn’t shout—it speaks in soft sips, kind gestures, and balanced bottles. And once you try it, you’re in.
We first crossed paths at a Provino press event a few years ago. That’s when we met Lola, a modest-looking bottle that hit different. Fresh, smooth, balanced. A year later, at the Muestra del Vino in 2024, we tasted it again. Still magical. That’s when we realized: Symmetria wasn’t a fad—it was a quiet revolution. The only problem? We had no idea where to find them again.
The Secret Ingredient: Balance
So what won us over? Their wines feel grounded—balanced enough to show skill, but never flashy. You can tell a barrel was involved, but it doesn’t try to dominate the room. Just enough to whisper “I’ve got your back”, not “I’ve got something to prove.”
Everything made sense after talking to Mauricio and Denise Soler, the couple behind the label. He’s the winemaker with a mission. She’s the force behind every label, sale, post, and good vibe. Their story started in Valle, but it wasn’t at Symmetria—it was when they became a couple around Monte Xanic. From the beginning, this was Mauricio’s dream, and Denise was right there building it with him, step by step.
From Vision to Vineyard
Their journey began in 2005, when the Soler family purchased a 5-acre property in the heart of the valley. Symmetria officially launched with the 2014 harvest—but long before that, Mauricio was already mapping out something bold.
While others followed tradition, he took a different route. Instead of studying winemaking locally, he enrolled in the Enology and Viticulture program at U.C. Fresno. After graduating, he gained real-world experience in the U.S., taking on key roles at several top wineries:
Artesa Winery (Cellar Worker/Lab Tech)
Roederer Estate (Enologist/Assistant Winemaker)
Maui Winery (Winemaker)
Longoria Winery (Associate Winemaker)
Each stop added depth. After years of learning and unlearning, Mauricio returned to Baja to pour it all into Symmetria. And now? He’s earned a spot on the “Wineries/Winemakers To Watch” list—and deservedly so.
A Logo with a Story
Their name comes from the Greek word for “balance,” but with a Baja twist. Their wines are global in style, but proudly local in roots. And their logo? A hummingbird for Denise’s grandmother, and a deer for Mauricio’s father. Two symbols, branded on every barrel, that tell the story of family, nature, vision, and love.
Fancy Words and Ice Cubes
During our chat, they shared a tasting room story that still makes them laugh. A sommelier once said, with full flair, “This wine has notes of sotobosque.” We all cracked up. I chimed in with, “You mean like when people say ‘terruño’ instead of dirt?”
(Just so you know: sotobosque means forest undergrowth. Not a character in Star Wars.)
And if someone asks for ice in their wine? No scandal here. They just smile and say, “How many cubes would you like?” No snobbery. Just enjoyment.
Pairings, Myths, and Grapes with Personality
We asked what pairing the wine snobs might hate—but they secretly love. Their answer?
Sparkling wine with pork rinds. No shame. Just crunch and bubbles. And they’re clear on the order of things: food first, wine second.
Favorite grape to work with? Chenin Colombard.
Most rebellious? Zinfandel. “It’s wild,” they laugh. “But fun.”
And the best part of the process? Mauricio jokes: “Drinking it!”
But truthfully, they love every step. Like that time at Tre Galline, when they opened a ten-year-old bottle of their own and found it full of memories. For them, wine is a time capsule you can pour.
So how much of winemaking is magic, and how much is nature?
“95 to 99% is nature,” says Mauricio. “The rest? Just patience.”
Oh—and they’re also working on a Nebbiolo that sounds like it might steal the spotlight. But we’ll save that for our next visit.
The Road Ahead: Growing with Soul
When asked what’s next for Symmetria, Mauricio was clear:
“We want to grow—but with intention. We don’t want to be a massive winery. We want to stay soulful. If someone comes back in 20 years, they should feel exactly what they feel today.”
Denise added:
“And we want to keep learning. You never fully master wine. Each year teaches something new. We want to grow as a family and as a team.”
That kind of mindset? You can taste it. They don’t bottle just to sell. If a wine doesn’t live up to their standards—it doesn’t go out. Period.
Your Next Favorite Bottle
Here are a few bottles to keep an eye out for:
Eje – perfect for surviving awkward family dinners.
Luminaria Blanc de Noirs – already rocking 91 points in the Guía Peñín.
Lola – the hug-in-a-bottle you didn’t know you needed.
Wanna Try It?
📞 619 659 4707
📧 denise.g19@gmail.com
Visits are personal, small, and cozy—best for groups of up to 10. Bigger group? Let’s talk. And yes, they speak perfect English.
Spoiler alert: A Sauvignon Blanc is coming—and it’s shaping up to be as juicy as a harvest-day rumor.
Symmetria exports 70% of their sparkling wines to the U.S. (Arizona, California, Nevada, Minnesota…), but you can also order online through La Competencia Imports.
And if you happen to see a roadrunner on the way there… don’t ignore it. For Mauricio and Denise, it’s a sign that something good is quietly fermenting.
Ensenada’s cruise port got a bit of extra sparkle yesterday with the arrival of the Navigator of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s most iconic vessels. Towering 15 decks above the ocean, this floating resort brought over 3,000 passengers to our charming port city—and we were there to capture it. (Scroll down for our exclusive 360° photo and video!)
The Navigator of the Seas belongs to Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class and first launched in 2002, though you’d never guess it by looking at her. A major renovation in 2019 gave the ship a full facelift—think laser tag arenas, a blow-dry bar, brand-new waterslides, and a totally revamped pool deck. It’s a resort on water, complete with a three-story main dining room, an ice skating rink (yes, really), and enough food options to keep you full from sunrise to sunrise.
Step into our immersive 360 experience and see the Navigator from the sky like never before. And don’t miss the video to see the excitement unfold in real time:
At over 1,020 feet in length and a gross tonnage of 139,999, this ship is no small visitor. She’s designed to carry more than 4,000 guests at full capacity and operates mainly out of Los Angeles, sailing short trips to the Mexican Riviera, including Cabo San Lucas and—lucky us—Ensenada.
Locals may have noticed the buzz near the Malecón as excited tourists disembarked, flooding the shops, grabbing fish tacos, and hopping onto wine tours to Guadalupe Valley. The ship’s arrival is a clear sign that cruise tourism is alive and well in Baja. Port officials told us the Navigator is scheduled to return multiple times throughout the season, injecting a welcome boost to the local economy.
With ships like this docking in our backyard, it’s safe to say: Ensenada is cruising into the spotlight.
Mexico demands evidence after U.S. accuses three banks of laundering cartel cash
MEXICO CITY — Just days after the U.S. Treasury called out three Mexican financial institutions for allegedly laundering cartel money linked to fentanyl trafficking, President Claudia Sheinbaum clapped back with a clear message: “No hay pruebas, solo dichos.” Translation? “No proof, just hearsay.”
In her signature morning press conference, Sheinbaum addressed the accusations leveled against CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector Casa de Bolsa—which the U.S. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) declared part of the fentanyl money machine. But according to Mexico’s top leader, the Treasury’s claims came without actual evidence. No bank statements, no names, no smoking gun. Just a memo and a very public naming and shaming.
The Mexican Government’s Response? Investigate—But Don’t Jump to Conclusions
Sheinbaum says Mexico’s Ministry of Finance and Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) received a confidential heads-up from FinCEN weeks ago, but that tip-off lacked the “why.” As in: why exactly does the U.S. think these banks are laundering drug money?
Since then, Mexico has formally asked for more details. Sheinbaum emphasized that the Chinese companies mentioned in the U.S. report are legally registered and that $139 billion in trade between China and Mexico isn’t built on crime—it’s built on commerce.
As for the alleged dirty transfers? “Just regular business,” Sheinbaum says, pointing out that thousands of similar transactions occur every day between Mexican and Chinese companies.
But Didn’t the U.S. Mention Cartels, Opioids, and Even García Luna?
Yes. And that’s where things get a little murky.
The FinCEN statement didn’t just throw shade—it dropped full-on accusations. The report linked the banks to the Sinaloa Cartel, Gulf Cartel, and CJNG. It even claimed that Vector helped launder $2 million and processed $40 million tied to Genaro García Luna, Mexico’s former top cop, who’s now sitting in a U.S. jail cell over cartel connections.
But Vector’s CEO, Eduardo Cantú, fired back on the radio: they checked their records, and neither García Luna nor his companies were ever their clients. And those Mexican firms tied to the alleged schemes? “Not our clients either,” said Cantú. Vector claims it’s been in touch with regulators and is happy to cooperate—just waiting for actual receipts from the U.S.
Intercam and CIBanco also denied any wrongdoing. In nearly identical statements, they said they comply with all Mexican and international financial rules and stand ready to work with both governments to clear things up.
Is This Just About Banks?
Not quite. The U.S. accusations have turned into something bigger—a potential political flashpoint.
One of the three institutions under fire, Vector, has ties to Alfonso Romo, a powerful businessman and close ally of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. That connection didn’t go unnoticed. Critics say the Treasury’s move may carry a hidden message aimed at figures within the current Mexican ruling party, Morena.
Meanwhile, canceled U.S. visas for other Mexican officials, including Baja California’s governor, have fueled speculation about wider investigations into cartel links at high levels of government.
Sheinbaum’s Bottom Line?
If there’s proof, Mexico will act. If not, don’t expect them to roll over.
“We’re not covering for anyone,” Sheinbaum said. “But we won’t act on speculation either.” She pointed to past U.S. missteps, including the high-profile arrest—and quiet release—of General Salvador Cienfuegos in 2020, as evidence that Washington can sometimes jump the gun.
While Mexican financial regulators have found minor administrative infractions at the banks in question, no signs of money laundering have surfaced so far.
Sheinbaum insists Mexico will keep asking for solid evidence and keep investigating. But until then, her stance is firm: “We are a free, sovereign country. We collaborate, but we don’t take orders.”
Let’s see if the Treasury’s next move comes with more than bold headlines.
FinCEN calls out CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector for helping cartels move dirty money
It’s not every day the U.S. Treasury drops the financial equivalent of a mic. But that’s exactly what happened this week when they named and shamed three Mexico-based financial institutions—CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector Casa de Bolsa—for allegedly helping drug cartels clean up their mess. And by mess, we mean millions of dollars linked to fentanyl trafficking.
Yep, according to the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), these institutions aren’t just looking the other way—they’re playing an active role in moving money for some of Mexico’s most notorious drug cartels. Think Sinaloa, CJNG, Beltrán-Leyva, and the ever-charming Gulf Cartel.
This move marks the first-ever use of new powers granted under the Fentanyl Sanctions Act and the FEND Off Fentanyl Act—which, if nothing else, win the award for most dramatic legislation names of the year. These laws give FinCEN the green light to cut financial lifelines tied to opioid trafficking. And CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector? They just got their financial passports revoked.
Dirty Money and Clean Hands? Not Quite.
Let’s break it down:
CIBanco, a commercial bank with over $7 billion in assets, is accused of processing more than $2.1 million in payments between Mexican companies and chemical suppliers in China—specifically for ingredients used to cook up fentanyl. FinCEN says a CIBanco employee even helped create an account to launder $10 million for a Gulf Cartel member. That’s not exactly in the job description.
Intercam, another commercial bank (with a cool $4 billion under management), also allegedly helped cartels wire cash to Chinese chemical companies. Even worse? Executives at Intercam reportedly met face-to-face with CJNG members in 2022 to chat about how to shuffle money around discreetly. Bold move, considering FaceTime exists.
Then there’s Vector, a brokerage firm managing close to $11 billion in assets. FinCEN claims Vector facilitated multiple payments for chemical imports and let a Sinaloa Cartel mule launder $2 million through them over nearly a decade. Maybe that’s what they meant by “diversified portfolio.”
What Happens Now?
These banks are now under the financial version of house arrest. U.S. institutions are banned from sending or receiving any money to or from them—including via cryptocurrency wallets. The restrictions take effect 21 days after the official notice is published in the Federal Register. (So, mark your calendars. Or don’t—it’s not like you were planning to send money to a cartel anyway.)
Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent didn’t mince words: “Financial facilitators like CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector are enabling the poisoning of countless Americans by moving money on behalf of cartels.” In other words, don’t let their sleek bank branches and business attire fool you—FinCEN says they’re just as dangerous as the guys with guns.
And What About Mexico?
Here’s the diplomatic twist: the Treasury insists this crackdown was done with Mexico’s full cooperation. Both countries, according to the official line, are committed to protecting their citizens from the financial tentacles of transnational criminal networks. (Let’s hope the cooperation lasts longer than a tequila hangover.)
Bigger Picture
These designations come on the heels of a January 2025 executive order from President Trump, declaring that certain cartels should be treated like Foreign Terrorist Organizations. And yes, several major cartels—including CJNG and Sinaloa—are now officially on that list. So today’s bank smackdown? Just part of the larger crackdown.
Bottom line? If you bank with one of these three institutions, now might be a good time to double-check where your money’s going. And if you’re a cartel? Well, looks like it’s back to stuffing cash in duffel bags.
—
Got questions about your bank? Ask your teller if they’ve been sanctioned today. If they say yes—run.
Just a short drive south of Rosarito and 35 kilometers north of Ensenada, tucked between the waves of the Pacific and the rush of the transpeninsular highway, lies a coastal gem many travelers zoom right past: Estero La Misión. It may not have the celebrity status of Bahía de los Ángeles or the Instagram sparkle of La Bufadora, but what it does have is something far more rare these days—life. Wild, migratory, riparian life.
This natural estuary is one of the last of its kind on the Baja California peninsula. It’s a permanent mirror of water flanked by reeds, salt-tolerant shrubs, and low riparian growth, home to an astonishing diversity of species. More than 90 kinds of birds either stop here during their long migrations or live here year-round. Some are casual visitors; others, like the black-necked stilt or the snowy egret, consider it home base. Beneath the water’s surface live fish, amphibians, and a long list of invertebrates, while mammals and reptiles lurk in the surrounding brush.
A modest but well-maintained hiking trail runs along the estuary’s northern edge, tracing the water’s path through private ejido lands and into what’s becoming increasingly suburban development. Locals and nature lovers walk the trail with their leashed dogs, binoculars, and cameras in hand, hoping to catch a glimpse of something wild before the tide—or progress—takes it away.
But the estuary isn’t just a haven for birds and fish. It’s also an archaeological site and a historical waypoint. Long before modern Baja homes dotted the cliffs or RVs pulled into beachside parks, this was sacred ground for the Kumiai people, whose cultural ties to the area go back over a thousand years. Around 2010, archaeologists unearthed the remains of “La Mujer de Humo,” or the Woman of Smoke, a pre-Hispanic skeleton that added new depth to the story of the peninsula’s earliest inhabitants.
In the late 18th century, Dominican missionaries arrived and established Mission San Miguel Arcángel right next to the estuary, taking advantage of the fertile lands and fresh water. Though the mission buildings are now mostly adobe ruins, they serve as a reminder that this area has always depended on its wetlands—not just for biodiversity, but for survival.
That dependence is now on shaky ground. Baja California has long struggled with drought, but in recent years, it’s become a full-blown crisis. Between the irregular rainfall and over-extraction of water upstream, Estero La Misión is under pressure. Less fresh water flows in from inland sources, altering the delicate salinity balance that many species depend on. The estuary becomes more saline, more stagnant, and more vulnerable to invasive species. Its natural ability to filter pollutants, buffer against coastal erosion, and mitigate flooding weakens as water levels drop.
It’s a quiet emergency. You won’t see news crews camped out by the reeds, but the signs are there: smaller flocks, shrinking shoreline, fewer frogs singing at dusk. The ripple effects are subtle at first, but they stretch wide—from marine health to agriculture to the spiritual connection many locals feel to the land.
Community groups like Pro Esteros A.C. and Terrapeninsular have stepped in, advocating for the wetland’s protection and monitoring its health. There’s growing interest in turning the trail and surrounding area into a stronger ecotourism attraction, which could bring both visibility and funding. But the long-term survival of Estero La Misión depends on something far more boring than guided bird tours: water policy. Sustainable urban growth. Responsible farming upstream. Actual rain.
In the end, the estuary is a litmus test. If we can’t protect a place so biologically rich, historically deep, and spiritually meaningful—what does that say about the rest of our coastal treasures?
So next time you’re headed down the coast, slow down near kilometer 35. Walk the trail. Listen to the birds. And remember: the real magic of Baja isn’t always in the headline spots. Sometimes, it’s quietly rustling in the reeds.
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?
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.
Stay aware. Track wind patterns, follow alerts, and brush up on basic emergency measures.
Diplomacy matters. This unpredictable “yes, no, maybe” peace moment is another reminder: global stability depends on choices made far beyond our border.
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)
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!
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.
📝 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!
June in Baja has been one wild ride. Foggy coastlines one minute, triple-digit inland heat the next. Here’s a clear, fun breakdown of what’s driving these swings—and what they spell for us in Baja.
Fog at Dawn, Sunshine by Noon
Thanks to the cold California Current, coastal towns like Ensenada and Rosarito are waking up to classic “June Gloom.” Thick marine fog envelopes the coast overnight, breaking up by afternoon. Mornings often feel brisk—perfect for a hoodie—but those clouds usually vanish by 10 a.m. .
Inland Heatwave: When the Sun Turns Up
Step inland, and things get sweaty fast. Places like Mexicali are hitting mid-90s to over 100°F. That’s a result of a shrinking marine layer and a high-pressure ridge pushing hot air into the valleys. NOAA data shows this is part of a wider trend of early-season heatwave conditions from mid-June to July .
Why Climate Change Matters
It’s no coincidence. Scientists warn global warming is raising these extremes—boosting inland max temps and intensifying coastal fog layers. Recent Mexican heatwaves were 1.5 °C hotter and 35–200 times more likely due to climate change .
Pacific Storms Stirring the Pot
June 2025 isn’t your usual early season. Tropical Storms Barbara and Cosme spun up near Mexico between June 8–11—right on Baja’s doorstep—causing high surf and choppy seas . Then came Hurricane Erick, the earliest major hurricane on record to make landfall—in Southwestern Mexico—peaking as a Category 4, then walloping Oaxaca by June 19 .
Though Erick made no direct landfall in Baja, it stirred splashes and moisture offshore—and hinted at a stormier season ahead .
A March Cold Front Preps June
Flashback to March: Two strong cold fronts slammed Baja, whipping up 50–70 km/h winds and rough seas, per CONAGUA . Those storms kick-started a shift in the air column, lowering humidity inland and paving the way for heat domes later. Combine that with early tropical systems, and you get the perfect storm of temperature swings.
🧭 What This Means for You
Coastal Life
Inland Living
Bring a sweater—June fog is no joke.
Avoid midday sun—it’s scorch city.
Boaters: expect seas up to 3 m; check CONAGUA charts.
Stay hydrated—temps over 45 °C reported in parts.
Fog may slow traffic, but no red alerts so far.
Watch for heat advisories—but rainfall’s still low.
Weather Tips for Surviving Baja’s Wild June
Stay coastal-ready:
🌫 Pack layers if you’re heading to the coast. Fog can make mornings chilly and damp.
🚤 Boaters should check wave forecasts daily. Swells are reaching up to 3 meters—CONAGUA reports are your best friend.
☁ Drive carefully in fog—visibility can drop fast.
Beat the inland heat:
🧴 Hydrate like it’s your job.
🧢 Wear breathable clothes and stay indoors between noon and 4 p.m.
🌡️ Don’t leave pets or groceries in the car—even for a few minutes.
Track the skies:
Want a visual weather breakdown? We recommend Windy.com — it offers dynamic maps with wind, heat, pressure, and cloud coverage across Baja in real time.
✅ Final Take
This June in Baja proves it’s weather on steroids:
Cold Pacific currents bringing coastal chill.
Severe inland heatwaves under high-pressure ridges.
Early tropical storms and hurricanes stirring seas and signals of an active season.
