Articles GGNorth

Indie Filmmakers Wanted for Ensenada’s Séptimo 2.0 Showcase
 Articles, Ensenada, Film Industry

Indie Filmmakers Wanted for Ensenada’s Séptimo 2.0 Showcase

Lights, camera, community. If you’ve been editing a film in your garage or storyboarding between coffee breaks, now’s your moment. “Séptimo 2.0,” Ensenada’s indie film showcase, is back—and this time, it’s calling for filmmakers from all corners, including you, dear Gringo.

Set to take place on September 6, the event is organized by local cinephile and creative agitator Víctor Valdez, and backed by the Subsecretariat for Creative Industries under the Baja State Ministry of Economy and Innovation. Their mission? To shine a projector-sized spotlight on emerging storytellers who are often overlooked in the big-budget, algorithm-driven film world.

This isn’t your typical red carpet affair. Séptimo was born in the shadows—literally—where independent films rarely get the recognition they deserve. According to Valdez, the goal is simple: create a space where the stories, messages, and raw talent of new filmmakers get the attention they’ve earned.

What Can You Submit?

  • Short films or music videos made in 2022 or later
  • Minimum duration: 1 minute
  • 1080p resolution or higher
  • All content (including music) must be 100% original

Whether it’s a poetic piece about tacos and existential dread, or a punk-inspired music video shot on the Malecon, they want it—as long as it’s yours.

How to Apply

Submit your work via Google Drive to: 📧 septimo.muestra@gmail.com

Include a PDF with:

  • Project title
  • Genre
  • Synopsis
  • Official poster
  • Full credits list

Not From Ensenada? Even Better

While the event is based in Ensenada, this is a call for creators everywhere, especially our readers across Baja and beyond. If you don’t live here, it’s the perfect excuse to visit. Come for the screening, stay for the coastline—and yes, the wine.

We actually have a hot tip for an incredible local rosé that’s about to hit the radar… but you’ll have to stay tuned for that one.

What to Expect

The Séptimo 2.0 showcase includes screenings, panels, and authentic networking—not the business card kind, the beer-and-brains kind. Think less stuffy film school, more creative BBQ with projectors.

Interested? Follow @septimo.ens on Instagram or message +52 646 256 4016 via WhatsApp.

And who knows—your next big break might start with a cold Tecate, a room full of strangers, and a story only you could tell.

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Provino Speaks Out on El Sauzal Port Project Concerns
 Breaking News

Provino: Port Growth Without Urban Planning Is a Risky Pairing

PROVINO isn’t saying no—but they are definitely saying “not like this.”

One week after more than 11,800 locals signed a petition slamming the proposed mega-port in El Sauzal (yep, this one), Baja California’s prestigious wine industry has officially weighed in—with a polite but firm swirl of the glass.

In a statement released late Thursday night, PROVINO Baja California, the committee representing over 80 wineries in the region, expressed serious concerns—not necessarily about the port itself, but about the complete lack of mobility planning, land-use regulation, or public consultation surrounding the project.

“The development of an industrial zone near a major tourism corridor demands public policies on mobility, territorial regulation, and citizen input,” they wrote.

#Provino Warns: Port Expansion Needs Mobility & Land Use Plans

Translation: They’re not anti-port. They’re anti-“let’s wing it and hope for the best.”

Why this matters

The wine industry isn’t just about sipping on weekends—it’s an economic engine. Events like the Fiestas de la Vendimia attract thousands of tourists, inject millions of pesos into the economy, and shape the global image of Baja wine country.

PROVINO emphasized that the port’s planning lacks transparency and called on the government to release all technical, environmental, and social impact studies. They’re not opposing development outright—but they want it to be smart, sustainable, and community-aware.

Meanwhile, in El Sauzal…

Residents are still waiting for clear answers. The online petition grows daily, and now with PROVINO joining the dialogue, the project faces even more scrutiny—especially from those who know a thing or two about protecting terroir.

Bottom line?

Baja’s wine leaders just told the government: you can’t bulldoze your way through paradise. If there’s going to be a port, it better come with a plan. And maybe a toast to transparency.

🍷 Stay tuned.

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La Lagunita, Ensenada—Once a thriving coastal wetland, now showing troubling signs of drought.
 Water, Water Watch

Two Rivers One Problem Secrets Behind Closed Doors

Water Watch Editorial

Lake Mead is dropping again and this is a reminder that we are fast approaching 2026. Freelance reporters with boots on the ground say that the water levels have dropped ten feet in the last couple of weeks. There is no rain in sight until next winter. To refresh the memories of those following the water crisis in 2022, it is important to remember that Baja receives 80% of its water from the Colorado River stored in Lake Mead. The 100-year-old agreement expires in five short months. And at this time the seven Basin States and Mexico have not reached anagreement. For months the different parties have met in secret behind closed doors. The talks have not been made public. It is imperative water distribution be understood by all users which includes we who live in Baja California. It is good to be aware during a drought period that the United States can reduce deliveries to Mexico. There definitely will be cuts in the 2026 new agreement.

In 2019 a Drought Contingency Plans was established between the United States and Mexico following the 1944 Water Treaty in the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande. Most recently we heard that President Trump was demanding water from Mexico’s Rio Grande which could not be provided due Mexico’s own water problems. It seems this story has disappeared from the media because of wars in the Middle East. We do not know if the second river issue has been resolved, however the Rio Grande situation is a different story and does not affect us here in Baja at this time.

Current information about the problems heading into 2026 is not found in mainstream media. It takes some research. However, what does appear in the media is their blaming the dwindling river water on climate change. This distracts from the true problem; over population in desert communities fueled by the fact that water has become a commodity bought and sold on Wall Street. In late 2020 Water Futures trading opened a new gambit for privatization. Why is this an issue? It takes the control out of the people’s hands and gives it to people who are not accountable. It has been stated that this change “will threaten our human right to clean, affordable water.”

Here are the three things to watch for as the 2026 new agreement goes into place:

  1. Water futures allow farmers, utilities, and other water users to hedge against price fluctuations and ensure a supply of water at a predetermined cost. 
  2. Investors can now participate in the water market, creating a new avenue for investment and potentially influencing water pricing and allocation. 
  3. Some experts and organizations raise concerns about the commodification of water, fearing it could lead to increased water scarcity and exacerbate inequalities in water access. 
Map of the Colorado River basin

The CME Group in July 2021 explained how the Water Futures market works. In their overview they stated, “With nearly two-thirds of the world’s population expected to face water shortages by 2025, water scarcity presents a growing climate-related risk for business and communities around the world. Particularly in the state of California.” California is the largest water user of all the Lower Basin states and Mexico facing the 2026 new allocations.

In a ludicrous article, A New Future for Water, in the June 3, 2025 Voice of San Diego, written byScott Lewis stated, “San Diego country has abundant water.” Sound like good news? Not if you look more deeply into where their water comes from. Southern California receives 60% of its water from the Colorado River. Less than a quarter of the water is pulled from each the Owens River Valley and Sacramento/ San Joaquin River Delta. The amount is governed by winter snow pack and the pipelines from the north. Actual water on site is less than a quarter of the reserves from desal and aquifers. The damage to the aquifers is for another story. However, in an agreement with the Water Authority they will be allowed to sell water out of state. The question appears to be is this a “futures trading” with Colorado River water? Will California “speculate” the future prices to sell water to the dry Basin states and Mexico?

The “traders” have little concern about the effect of this trading on you and me. Development is their aim and we see is everywhere happening at a frenzied pace. To developers and governments sustainability is a word never to be spoken. Even in the face of the facts of decades of warnings, about water becoming the major concern like oil was to the 21st century. Water is now being played and will one day be more valuable than gold. Can we trust political transparency that water will actually be delivered to us at a price we can afford? One freelance reporter stated that we probably won’t see the results of this year’s dry winter until next summer. Development rushes on while the new desal plant in Rosarito is breaking ground, one desal plant in the future is a pipe-dream savior.

In conclusion, scientists have provided a rare, uncomfortable dose of certainty to Colorado River talks: “The planet is getting warmer, the Colorado River is losing water, and cutbacks to water demand are unavoidably necessary.” Development cannot be sustained without water. We might need more than hope for Mother Nature’s good intentions to provide and the one new desal plant to sustain Baja’s future. The Water Future speculation will be based on who has the water and how much will it cost.

Editor’s Note: Martina is a freelance writer who has been tracking Baja’s water issues since 2005. See all the back issues ggnorth.com/category/water-watch and Martina is the author of Dust in My Sandals, Tales from a Baja Traveler. Order today!

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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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 Baja Norte, Editions

July 14, 2025 Edition

How to download a PDF of this publication:
1. Locate the icon toolbar at the bottom part of the newspaper window. If you can’t find it you can try going full screen by clicking “Read Now” on the screen.
2. Click on the cloud icon (Download PDF) on the bottom right corner of your screen.
(See example below)

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Big names, big wine plans — The Fiestas de la Vendimia 2025 press crew: Wenceslao Martínez (Provino), Andrés Bremer (Proturismo), Álvaro Romero (Provino), and Yolanda Navarro (Tourism), standing tall for Baja’s boldest wine season yet.
 Accidents, Ensenada, Wine

Wine, Music and Magic Await at Baja’s Fiestas de la Vendimia 2025

This week, the Valle turned up the charm and the wine for the official press launch of the 35th Fiestas de la Vendimia. The venue? Viña de Liceaga, of course. And if the flawless service and perfectly laid tables are any clue, we’d bet Myrna Liceaga had a hand in supervising the event. From Gringo Gazette North, a big thank-you to the Provino team for treating us like royalty—we felt every sip of the hospitality.

  • #Under the oaks, over the top — Robleza, the restaurant at Viña de Liceaga, served up elegance with every bite. Pretty sure Myrna Liceaga had a hand in this.
  • Mic up, wine down
  • #Table’s set, let the pouring begin 🍽️🥂
  • #Big names, big wine plans — The Fiestas de la Vendimia 2025 press crew: Wenceslao Martínez (Provino), Andrés Bremer (Proturismo), Álvaro Romero (Provino), and Yolanda Navarro (Tourism), standing tall for Baja’s boldest wine season yet
  • #Press, ready, sip! 📸✍️
  • #First impressions: 10/10 reception
  • #Spoiled by PROVINO—don’t stop now! 😎🍇

The 2025 edition, themed “Terruño, Identidad y Vocación,” will run from July 30 to August 24 with more than 45 events celebrating wine, land, and the people who make it all happen. Expect everything from vertical tastings and intimate 20-person dinners to wild, woodfire-fueled paella competitions and full-scale music festivals. Because that’s just how Baja rolls.

Kicking Things Off – Muestra del Vino | Aug. 1

This is the OG of wine events in Baja and it’s still going strong. Held at the Centro Cultural Riviera, Muestra del Vino will showcase 80 wineries, over 160 wine labels, and bites from 50 local restaurants—all for $1,450 pesos. Oh, and there’s a secret headliner on the main stage. Who? They’re not telling. But with five stages covering everything from jazz to norteño, no one’s going home disappointed. Pro tip: It’s 18+ only, so leave the littles with abuela.

Paella Showdown – Aug. 17 at Viña de Liceaga

This is the big one. The Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest isn’t just a cook-off—it’s a campestre family fiesta under 120-year-old oak trees and, yes, one majestic 500-year-old roble. More than 90 paella teams will compete with over 160 wines from Baja’s best wineries. The firewood-only rule (no gas!) adds smoky magic to the mix. Tickets are $1,450 pesos, kids under 12 get in free, and if history tells us anything, it’ll sell out by 5 PM. So show up early and hungry.

Wines, Roots, and Roaming

Beyond the big names, there are also six multidimensional events, weekly guided tours to Provino-affiliated wineries, and 46+ food and wine pairings planned. Whether you’re into intimate dinners, educational catas, or just sipping with friends, there’s something for everyone.

Over 100,000 visitors are expected, with a projected $800 million pesos in economic impact. So, yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.

Need Tickets or Want to Stalk the Calendar?

Find everything at: provinobc.mx

You bring the glass. We’ll bring the buzz.

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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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 Development, Ensenada, Video

11,800 Say “Nope” to Port Mega Project in El Sauzal

If you were planning on sipping a cocktail while watching whales off the coast of El Sauzal—might want to do it now. That view could soon come with a backdrop of container cranes and fuel tanks.

Over 11,800 people (and counting) have signed a petition on Change.org asking Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to scrap the industrial expansion of the El Sauzal port. Their message? Ensenada doesn’t need a megaport. It needs working streets, clean water, and maybe a public restroom or two that doesn’t smell like sadness.

The proposal would turn the current fishing port into a high-volume industrial hub for containers and—because why not—hydrocarbons. The plan includes extending the breakwater by 4 kilometers, dredging the seafloor to gain 60 new hectares (not for swimming), and increasing container traffic from 400,000 to over 6 million. That’s a 15x jump for anyone keeping score.

And in case you thought this was all part of a master plan with full public support and thorough environmental vetting—think again. The project was announced casually by Sheinbaum during her December 5, 2024, morning press conference. No public consultation. No strategic environmental assessment. No technical analysis explaining why this is even a good idea. Just ta-da!—industrial port, coming right up.

Photo courtesy of Jose Alberto Rosas

Opponents say this monster project could wreck the Bay of Todos Santos. Not only would it bulldoze public beaches and block off shoreline access, it could also kneecap local fishing, endanger public health, and snarl traffic in a town that already suffers from daily bottlenecks and potholes you could lose a small car in.

“This puts our quality of life, economy, and marine culture at serious risk,” reads the petition. And they’re not exaggerating. One lane in, one lane out—what could go wrong when you add thousands of trucks?

Critics argue the 5.7 billion pesos set aside for this beast of a project would be better spent on fixing real issues—like modernizing public transport, upgrading wastewater treatment plants that still dump filth into the ocean, or saving what’s left of our water supply before we all start showering with baby wipes.

Change.org says it verifies that the signatures are from real humans, not just bots or angry sea lions.

At press time, no formal response from the federal government. But here in Ensenada, the pushback is real—and growing.

So if you care about your waves staying blue instead of oily gray, maybe check out the petition. And in the meantime, enjoy that sea breeze while it lasts.

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