Articles GGNorth

Baja Norte, Breaking News

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.

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 Articles

Snip Snip, Señores! Free Vasectomies Offered in Mexicali This May

While flowers, mariachis, and teary poems dominate Mexico’s Mother’s Day, Mexicali’s health officials are doing something a little different this year: they’re calling on men to step up and do their part — scissors and all.

In honor of May 10 (yes, that’s Mexican Mother’s Day, for you gringos still texting your mom next Sunday), health authorities in Mexicali are offering free vasectomies throughout the month. That’s right, gentlemen: snip now, skip diapers later.

The program is led by the Baja California Ministry of Health and is part of a statewide push for shared responsibility in family planning. And let’s be honest — moms have done enough. This time, it’s the guys’ turn to make a small but meaningful sacrifice.

The procedure is quick, outpatient, and 100% free. No hospital stay, no scalpel, and no regrets (well, unless you really wanted that sixth kid).

#Vasectomy

Appointments can be scheduled through your local health center in Mexicali, and walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability. And don’t worry — there’s counseling beforehand, so no one walks in without knowing what they’re leaving without.

This campaign isn’t about pushing anything. It’s about offering real options. And while it may raise some eyebrows, it’s also raising awareness that responsibility isn’t just for mamá.

So if you’re a father who’s done his duty, or a partner who’s ready to show love in a whole new way, this might just be the best gift you can give this May.

💜 Flowers wilt. Chocolates melt. But this? This lasts.

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

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.

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 Breaking News, International

White smoke alert! The Catholic Church just made history.

This Thursday, May 8, the Vatican confirmed what thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square had hoped: we have a new pope. After only two days of voting, white smoke floated out of the Sistine Chapel chimney at 6:07 p.m. local time. That meant one thing—decision made.

The new leader? Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago. He will now be known as Pope Leo XIV—and he’s the first American-born pope ever.

#Pope Leo XIV—and he’s the first American-born pope ever.

Even more surprising, he wasn’t the frontrunner. Still, the cardinals reached a rare fast-track consensus after just four rounds of voting. Moments later, the traditional Habemus Papam echoed from the basilica’s balcony. Cardinal Dominique Mamberti made it official before a crowd of over 150,000.

Pope Leo XIV, born in 1955, spent nearly 40 years in Peru as a missionary and bishop. Because of this, he holds dual citizenship—U.S. and Peruvian. Before today, he was the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, meaning he already had serious Vatican credentials.

In his first speech, he thanked Pope Francis and called for “peace, unity, and courage.” Then he turned to the crowd and, in Spanish, sent a heartfelt message to his old diocese in Chiclayo, Peru. Smooth move, Padre.

This conclave followed the April 21 passing of Pope Francis, who died at 88. While some expected a longer vote, the outcome signals strong agreement within the church. Many see this new pope as a global bridge between Latin America, North America, and Rome.

🙏 Whether you’re religious or just curious, this is a big one. And yes, the Gringo Gazette saw it coming.

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Ensenada 911 Line Drops
 Breaking News, Ensenada

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.

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 Breaking News, Tijuana, Wildlife

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.
    #Siberian tiger
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
    #spider monkey
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
    #Horned owl
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
    #chameleon
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana.
    #two horned owls
  • Noah’s Ark took a detour through Tijuana
    #three bearded dragons

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.

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“AI-generated image of black smoke rising over the Vatican—symbolizing the wait for a new pope continues.”
 Breaking News, Interational

Locked In and Looking Up: Vatican Kicks Off Conclave to Pick New Pope

Today, 133 cardinals from around the world locked themselves into the Sistine Chapel. Why? To pick the next Pope.

This secretive meeting—known as a conclave—comes after the death of Pope Francis on April 21. And no, they’re not allowed to bring their phones.

The word conclave comes from the Latin cum clave, which means “with a key.” As in, they’re literally locked in until a decision is made. The tradition began in 1274 after a papal election dragged on for nearly three years. Talk about deadlines.

The voting? It’s old school. Handwritten ballots, burned in a special stove. If the smoke is black, no Pope. If it’s white—ding ding—we have a winner.

The process can take a day or stretch into weeks. But this time, many expect a decision in under three days. Cardinals Pietro Parolin of Italy and Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines are top contenders, but in conclaves, surprises happen.

#Photo by Claude Truong-Ngoc / Wikimedia Commons

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
#Photo by Lawrence OP / Wikimedia Commons

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle

This is the most geographically diverse conclave ever. Expect some intense debates, lots of incense, and maybe even a miracle or two.

📿 As always, the world waits for the smoke… and the name.

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 Arts & Literature, Events, Rosarito

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.

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Executive order from President Trump
 Articles

Trump Says “Learn English in 60 Days” — Truckers Say “¿What?”

A new executive order from President Trump is shaking up border trucking like a pothole on the Tijuana freeway. The mandate? All commercial drivers entering the U.S. must speak English — and they’ve got 60 days to prove it.

Currently, only 3 out of 10 truckers along the border speak English well enough to explain a flat tire, let alone communicate with U.S. safety officials. As a result, this mandate has sent ripples through the transport community — and not the good kind.


Representing the voice of many concerned drivers, Israel Delgado Vallejo, vice president for the Northwest Region of CANACAR (Mexico’s National Chamber of Freight Transport) and delegate in Tijuana, weighed in on the decision:

Israel Delegado Vallejo, vice president CANACAR
# Israel Delegado Vallejo, vice president CANACAR

👉 “There are many capable drivers who simply don’t speak English, and that doesn’t make them less safe.”

In theory, the rule aims to improve communication and road safety. In practice, however, it’s throwing a wrench into binational commerce. The order requires drivers to read signs, follow written instructions, and speak directly to U.S. officers — all in English. If they can’t, they’ll be sidelined.

Meanwhile, truckers and companies now scramble to meet the language requirement. For many, that means urgent training, higher costs, and disrupted schedules — all under a tight two-month deadline.

Moreover, Vallejo warns this could clog ports of entry and delay cargo, affecting everything from avocados to auto parts. “This is a slap in the face to working people who’ve delivered goods safely for decades,” he said.

So now what? Either drivers pick up English fast — or trade slows down faster. Border business just got bilingual. And no, “Spanglish” doesn’t count.

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Hand Hygiene Day
 Articles, Baja Norte, Healthcare

🧼 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.

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