BAJA News

06/03/2025

06/03/2025

His Wings Ranch"
by Susan Marie Fasino

His Wings Ranch is nestled in the hills of rural Maneadero, Ensenada. The medical needs of the most fragile of children is intense and very hard to come by. I am susan fasino and a physical therapist of over 40 years. I have been serving the medically fragile and special needs children of baja California for the past 25 years. His wings ranch offers physical, occupational, speech, and horse therapy and adapted special education to over 65 children. It is a Christian ministry that relies solely on donations from the US. The families who are able to, give small donations if able, the majority receive the help for free. We partner with other ministries for the families to have property and get a donated home to be close to the ranch.
Our small ranch grows every month with new children finding their way to help and hope. We help many children receive medical help in the US by helping the families apply for international care if they qualify. This was the case with a sweet young girl and her mother who recently received care in the US, but tragically the plane crashed when they were on their way home to Mexico. We continue to grieve this tremendous loss, but through our grief, we must continue to fight for the frail children who continue to need our help and hope. We fill out the applications, arrange for preop testing, arrange video calls, and handle logistics to get to the help they need.
In the rural countryside, life in a wheelchair is extremely difficult. There are no paved roads, no patios, no sidewalks, no way for the children to leave their house! They live very isolated lives and many cannot go to school, because they just cannot get there. There is no public transportation for people in wheelchairs. Even if they can find a way there, many schools are not adapted for wheelchairs and the classrooms are inaccessible. We provide wheelchairs for the children from our donated warehouse, but they fall apart very quickly. It is very difficult to cross them from San Diego as well, but we do the best we can. The amount of young non-verbal preschool age autistic children has quickly grown to 20. There are no universities in Baja California to train occupational or speech therapists, we rely on US teams of specialists to visit us, see the kids and help us come up with the treatment plans . The local special needs schools are impossible for most of the poorest children to attend. Parents simply can’t afford the to pay for taxis (which normally cannot fit a wheelchair anyway). Many children require a “sombra” to accompany them to school which is too expensive for most families. Specialized help that is available is very expensive and out of reach for many of the children who come to the ranch for help. At the ranch we do not have public water or public electricity so we rely on trucked in water and solar panels. When it rains the roads are impossible to navigate.

Here at the ranch, many kids are close enough to walk, but some access the ranch by car. We offer a variety of therapies not offered in the schools. We help the children receive specialist doctor appointments. We help them receive the special diagnostic testing and treatments that improve quality of life. We are a small team of 2 physical therapists, one part time teacher, and one full time teacher, and one psychologist one day a week, who specialized in learning disorders, and horse handlers for the horse therapy. We offer special classrooms for children who have never been to school, or who are very delayed in their schooling, these children are getting lost in the system, but are now learning to read and write and improving their confidence in school. We give away wheelchairs, walkers, and specialized splints from donated items from the US. Most importantly we give hope to the hopeless. We support the families so they do not feel so alone. We are there for them in sickness and in health. We are their voices; we strive for each child to reach their God given potential. We believe God brings beauty from ashes, we pray that the recent tragedy we have experienced, will bring increased awareness to the struggles that the special needs and medically fragile children of the baja struggle with every day. May the parents of these children not feel so helpless as they try to access the care they desperately need. We dream of the day that this specialized care is available here at home, where we live. If I had access to the negative pressure wound vac system needed to close pressure sores, we could help those who need it, in their own home!! Until then, we will continue to fight for the best life they can have here in Baja California, may these deaths not be in vain, but result in better infrastructure so wheelchair bound children can live their best life in the community, and receive the specialized care they deserve.
Contact to volunteer or donate Susan Marie Fasino 52-661-110-7324 / [email protected]

06/03/2025

Get Out" Mexico"s Carlo Slim Kicks Elon Musk Starlink out of Latina America
By Vivian Marlene Dunbar
Mexico’s wealthiest man the well-known Carlos Slim just kicked Elon Musk and his Starlink operation out of Latin America.! It seems Elon Musk posted something nasty about Carlos on Musk’s X social media implying that the Mexican mogul had unsavory business connections It apparently did not take long for Carlos Slim to find out whereupon Mr. Slim immediately canceled all of Mr. Musk’s Starlink partnerships throughout all of Lain America. The ousting cost Elon Musk an estimated 7 billion dollars in revenue. Further Carlos Slim turned toward China and Europe to spend his estimated 22 billion in satellite communications investments. Starlink is Elon Musk vast high tech satellite communications system which according to Wikipedia uses a " constellation" of over 6000 satellites orbiting earth at a height of approximately 342 miles above the ground. This system providing internet service to over 100 countries worldwide is part of is part of Elon Musk’s Space X Enterprise Star shield the military version is contracted with the US Department of Defense and used in the Russian - Ukrainian war. Today Monday Feb 24, 2025 a special launch is scheduled to lift of from Cape Canaveral Space Force station in Florida at approx. 11:30 pm ET. This special launch, Space Launch 40' will shoot even more satellites into space where they will orbit the earth enabling more communications around the world in ways we are not nerdy enough to explain. Elon's Starlink is not the only kid on the stellar communications block China has Space Sail currently expanding into worldwide markets and on its way to being the world’s number one satellite communications provider thanks in no small part to Carlos Slim 22 billion dollar investment. Also waiting in the wings is Jeff Bezos Amazon " Project Kuiper". satellite communication system still in its developing stage Mexico president Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed her disdain for Elon Musk’s insulting inferences toward Mexican mogul Carlos Slim whom Forbes estimates having 80 billion dollars. However Elon Musk estimated wealth is nearly 400 billion dollars so he may not feel the " pinch" of his Starlight enterprise being kicked out of Latin America.

06/03/2025

The Good in Baja Mexico and the Growing Darkness in the United States
By Marilyn K. Simon, PhD
As a citizen of the United States who also holds permanent residency in Mexico, I have a unique vantage point from which to observe the stark contrasts between these two nations. Living in Baja, I see a land that embraces diversity, a country that has elected its first female president, and a culture that welcomes outsiders with warmth and generosity. Meanwhile, across the border, I watch with growing concern as xenophobia, political chaos, and misguided nationalism consume the United States.
Mexico, for all its challenges, continues to embody the spirit of inclusivity. Here in Baja, people from around the world find a place to call home, whether as retirees, workers, or investors. Unlike the United States, where immigration policies are becoming increasingly draconian, Mexico actively welcomes foreigners who wish to contribute to its society. It is a land where differences are celebrated rather than feared.
Moreover, Mexico has taken a historic step forward by electing a female president. This milestone reflects the country’s evolving commitment to gender equality and progress, something that the United States a nation that touts itself as a global leader in democracy has yet to achieve. The election of President Claudia Sheinbaum, a former energy scientist and member of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is a testament to Mexico’s ability to embrace change and move forward, while its northern neighbor remains mired in outdated biases and systemic barriers with the election of a convicted felon bent on destroying democratic values.
The United States is witnessing an alarming rise in xenophobia. Immigrants who have always been the backbone of the country are increasingly vilified. Policies aimed at restricting asylum seekers and mass deportations reveal a growing hostility toward those who seek the very promise of opportunity that once defined America. The fearmongering tactics used by politicians to scapegoat immigrants only serve to deepen divisions and fuel resentment.
This hostility extends beyond immigration. The petty push to rename the Gulf of Mexico exemplifies the misplaced priorities of an emboldened nationalist movement. Such a pointless exercise only underscores the growing pettiness of American politics a distraction from the real issues of economic instability, social division, and crumbling democratic norms.
No discussion of the U.S.’s decline would be complete without acknowledging the chaos caused by Donald Trump and his modern-day Rasputin, Elon Musk. Trump’s erratic leadership continues to undermine federal agencies, most notably USAID, which plays a crucial role in global humanitarian efforts. With Musk’s influence and their shared disdain for established institutions, the dismantling of key governmental structures is accelerating. This deliberate erosion of governance leaves the U.S. vulnerable, not only domestically but on the world stage.
The consequences of their reckless actions extend beyond bureaucratic dysfunction. By gutting agencies responsible for global stability, their influence is actively damaging America’s standing in international affairs. While Mexico takes strides toward the future, the United States appears to be spiraling into a self-inflicted decline, fueled by ego, misinformation, and fear.
A Tale of Two Nations
The contrast between Mexico and the United States has never been more pronounced. While Mexico embraces progress, welcomes outsiders, and moves toward a more inclusive society, the U.S. seems determined to retreat into fear and division. As someone who lives between these two worlds, I can only hope that the United States will eventually recognize the peril of its current trajectory. Until then, I find solace in Mexico, where hope, progress, and a sense of shared humanity still thrive.

06/03/2025

Mandala, a project from the heart to help women in the community

At Mandala Salon, we focus on providing opportunities to women with skills in the care of hands, nails, feet and toenails, allowing them to generate a stable income without the need for initial investment. Through our subsidiarity, we offer collaborative work spaces, high-quality tools and premium products, so each woman in our community can provide exceptional services to our clients.
In this way, every time you visit us, you can feel relaxed and proud to support women who give a great effort to improve their economic situation for their families, thus contributing to the personal and family development of each one of them.
Therefore, Mandala Salon provides training to the entire team every month to give 6 different types of pedicure, manicure and nail services; as well as foot and hand massages.
At Mandala Salon you will find renowned national and international brands such as Organic, Gel Polish, Gelish, Bioonce, Aquaphor and Voesh New York.

14/02/2025

Spa Celebration of Love, Botox and Well-being

This is a very especial month to us, this Valentines marks our 10-year anniversary as a Spa here at La Fonda Restaurant Hotel and Spa, a landmark on the coast. We are very grateful & overwhelmed with joy to reach such a milestone with your ongoing support! We celebrate with you on this remarkable achievement of doing what we love and providing a service in helping you look and feel your Best! The Ocean view at the Spa is a natural sight worth the visit to your Favorite Spa! We have a wonderful Team of professionals to help you relieve any pain or to relax. Come Experience our signature massages from our popular CBD oil massage, to Rock massage to melt tense muscles and lower anxiety levels, drain muscles, help fibers recoil to their natural state, improving circulation and tone your overall musculature system. Signature Facials, we have our Deep cleansing facial, this will help us get to know your skin and talk about your skin concerns, that way we can answer them and also be able to offer you new treatments to help you achieve your best look, we recommend a facial a month, that way you keep your skin revised, hydrated and clean:) CO2 What? A plethora of ways to use it one is If your Eye Lids are making you look tired because they are too droopy. We have a great option for you without having to go under the knife. Yes hunny, we have the CO2 Fractional Laser! The latest technology it gives you a revitalize rejuvenating look and evaporates excess skin under your eyes. Also a Top Eye Lid (I had mine and I love the results! We apply exosomes for a faster recovery which can be applied to the overall face to remove sun damage, sn**ch the skin and give you the Glass skin look. The CO2 fractional laser is one of the 2025 beauty trend that is a must, book your skin consultation, and give your best look to 2025 BOTOX: A Extra beauty treatments for your convenience! This service can help you treat different issues and concerns, let’s book your appointment to answer your questions and concerns We invite you to celebrate with us and Experience our friendly customer service, our spectacular Ocean view with immediate access to our Sandy beach and take advantage of what we have to offer you, latest technology and classic services for your enjoyment and benefit, also make sure to check our weekly Spa Deals, ALWAYS something for you, like Wednesday Margarita Pedicure, enjoy your complimentary drink and get a deal on your pedicure only $20.00 Antonio Salceda and Spa Team Direct Spa Line: 646-488-0004 WHATS:661-135-6377

14/02/2025

Migrants in Tijuana - a Week at the Border... by Aida Renee Amador..

And so we begin the week at the border, with broken hearts. Robert and I have been reflecting on everything this year holds for us in Tijuana, amidst an increasingly uncertain and challenging immigration landscape. The first deportations at the San Ysidro Port of Entry and the cancellation of appointments on the CBP One app have left thousands of families in heartbreaking situations: some stranded in Tijuana without a clear path forward, and others being sent back, forced to leave their loved ones in another country.

It’s hard not to feel a mix of frustration, sadness, and determination as we witness these policies tear families apart and deepen the suffering of those who are already facing so much. Since last year, we knew this moment was coming, and while the news is disheartening, we find hope in knowing that we are part of the solution.

At Via Migrante will be part of a new shelter Comunidad de Luz, a space for women and children in Tijuana, Robert and I have the privilege of serving on the board of directors. This space is more than just a physical refuge it’s a temporary home where we do everything in our power to ensure that every person lives safely and with dignity during their stay. Our commitment is stronger than ever because we know that behind every number, every statistic, is a mother, a child, a family with dreams, fears, and hopes.
We can’t control the policies of a government that often forgets the humanity behind its decisions, but here at the border, we fight every day to protect that humanity. We keep going with empathy, with love, and with the firm belief that every action matters, no matter how small it may seem.

14/02/2025

Tijuana Mayor Declares State of Emergency.
by Vivian Marlene Dunbar Feb 4, 2025.
In anticipation of US president Donald Trump’s threat of Mass deportations, Tijuana Mayor Ismael Burgueno Ruiz has declared a state of emergency in the city. Trump declared that this will be the "largest deportation operation in American history "and thousands of undocumented Mexican nationals have already begun to arrive into Tijuana. The city has rushed to build shelters for the deportees converting hotels unused buildings and relying on the help of churches and good Samaritan non- profits to help provide food, blankets and supplies. A bottle neck was created when the new Trump administration abruptly ended the CBP APP, which enabled migrants to begin their amnesty application on line. Trump restarted the " Stay in Mexico" program. forcing thousands of migrants to remain in Tijuana waiting for an opportunity to apply for citizenship. Trump" s America First agenda includes an attempt to end birthright citizenship defying the US Constitution 14th Amendment a move already being challenged in US courts Protests against ICE are happening in every US city. the Latino population enraged that ordinary citizens are being targeted by ICE. Governors and Mayors around the nation are declaring resistance to ICE chasing down suspected " illegals" in their communities. a practice many insist includes racial profiling. Communities with sizable numbers of white undocumented people, like Brighton Beaches Russian Community or Boston’s Irish community are according to reports not being targeted by ICE. As each day goes by, ICE gains more power including the right to enter churches and schools Many immigrants are afraid to leave their homes. and a cottage industry has sprung up delivering groceries to these people. Talk of shipping violent undocumented people off to Guantanamo and other off shore prisons are on the table. Mexico and Colombia both sent US military aircraft carrying deports back to US Colombia agreeing to send their own planes to US to pick up the migrants. Mexico has agreed to deploy 10,000 National Guard to their northern border to help control migration a move that got them a temporary 30-day reprieve from Trumps 25% tariff threat. Private prison contractor giants like GEO group and Core Civic the company running the Otay Mesa detention center saw stocks " skyrocket" when Trumps win was announced Nov 6, 2024. Texas is building tent cities housing detainees is big business. German folks are watching and comparing this all to 1940-1947 Germany....recently a message from a friend in Berlin." we look in your direction with compassion and concern.

14/02/2025

Hope Across the Border: A Journey to Baja Norte for Stem Cell Treatment.

By Kennedy Carr ~ Baja News

I recently found myself on a journey to Mexicali, the state capital of Baja California, with a childhood friend from Alaska. We hadn't seen each other in over 36 years, and I was eager to reconnect. He was a very active semi-professional Hockey player, downhill skier and truck driver most of his life.
At the ripe age of 66, he has been dealing with the crippling effects of arthritis in his knees, I was curious to learn more about the stem cell treatments he'd been receiving annually in Baja Norte for the last 3 years.
When I picked up my friend up from the San Diego Airport, he could barely get into my car. But just 24 hours later, he was playing pickle ball, and was racing across the courts swinging his paddle with ease. It was a transformation that was nothing short of a miracle.
As we navigated through the bustling modern streets of Mexicali, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and curiosity. What was it about this Mexican border town that made it a hub for stem cell treatment? And what exactly did these treatments entail?
Our first stop was a state-of-the-art medical facility, where we met with Dr. Carlos, my friend's physician. The doctor walked us through the process of stem cell treatment, explaining how these specialized cells can be used to repair or replace damaged tissues. I was fascinated by the science behind the treatment, and the doctor's passion for his work was evident.
The most common types of stem cell treatments offered in Baja Norte include autologous stem cell therapy, allogenic stem cell therapy, and umbilical cord stem cell therapy. Each of these treatments has its own unique benefits and advantages, and the doctor took the time to explain each option to me in detail.
As I spoke with former patients who had undergone stem cell treatment, it became clear that Baja California offers something truly unique. The combination of cutting-edge medical technology, experienced medical practitioners, and affordability makes it an attractive option for patients from around the world. And at a third of the cost of similar treatments in the US, it's an option that's within reach for many people.
But what really sets Baja apart is the sense of community and camaraderie that exists among the medical practitioners. There's a sense of hope and optimism that permeates every aspect of the treatment process, and it's clear that this approach is yielding remarkable results.
At the heart of this movement is Dr. Michael D. Carlos, the founder of Cords of Revitalization. Dr. Carlos's journey into the world of stem cell therapy began with a personal quest to help his family manage pain and disorders. Seeing the positive impact on his loved ones, he is now dedicated to helping others find relief.
Today, Cords of Revitalization is a leading provider of advanced stem cell therapy services aimed at alleviating pain and treating disorders. Based in Mexicali, B.C., Mexico, the clinic is committed to providing top-notch care and innovative treatments to improve the quality of life for its patients.
As I watched my friend receive his treatment, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The procedure was surprisingly straightforward with just a few injections in his knee. Doctor Carlos was warm, welcoming, and thoroughly professional. He speaks fluent English, Spanish and Filipino.
In the days following his visit, my friend reported significant improvements in his mobility and pain reduction. It was clear that the treatment had been a success, and he was eager to return to Baja Norte next year for further treatment if necessary.
As we prepared to leave Mexicali and head back to the States, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude and admiration for Dr. Carlos and his team. They're doing something truly remarkable in Baja Norte, and it's clear that their work is changing lives.
If you or a loved one is considering stem cell treatment, I highly recommend exploring the options available at Cords of Revitalization. From my personal observations, Mexicali has more affordable pricing than the clinics in Tijuana and Rosarito. It's a journey that may change your life forever. For additional information, I recommend contacting Dr. Carlos through his website at:

Stem Cell Therapy Transforming Lives with Advanced Stem Cell Therapy Contact Trusted by 1K+ patients Click here Prioritize Your Health Call Us: (310) 591-8379 About Us Dr. Michael D. Carlos founded Cords of Revitalization to help his family manage pain and disorders through stem cell therapy. Seeing...

14/02/2025

Your adventure in the Yucatan"
by Laura LaBrie
Imagine you are sitting in a simple plastic chair and on the floor beneath you is an old and well-used incense burner. It is pouring out lemon smoke which is wafting about you. A Maya man, small of stature and great of heart holds a sacred healing crystal on your head as he taps you all over with a sprig of fresh ruda sprinkled with rum. To accompany the tapping, he chants in Yucatec Mayan. He is a generational healer, a worker of magic with herbs and energy. His office is a sky blue room with not much more than a couple of hammoks, your plastic chair, and a rustic wooden bench holding a thin taper candle, a glass filled with another crystal and rum, a happy Buddha statue, and an array of herbs. He is wearing a white shirt that has obviously been washed more times than the manufacturer originally intended, tan slacks, and tan plastic sandals. One might say the entire scene was underwhelming. After all, it is a real Maya shaman. And yet, the simplicity belies the power you find there. Power to heal bones that are so worn out they need to be replaced according to modern medicine, power to break curses, power to change luck, power to heal cancer without modern drugs, power to erase memories that have been debilitating for decades. This is the center of your time with us on retreat. This is the man who has opened doors of magic that are held open for you to explore. This is the humble home of a family who farms for food and gathers medicinal plants in the surrounding jungles. This is the place where your world view changes. Imagine you are descending a winding staircase into a cave. Far below you see water the color of a swimming pool. Stalactites hang from above and light filters in through a hole in the ceiling. As you move deeper and deeper into the cave, you enter Xibalba, the underworld, the sacred place of the Maya. When you reach the bottom of the staircase, you slip into the cool waters. You can feel the ancient sacredness of the place. It is guarded by magic. In truth, it is the magic of an alux, a guardian created by a shaman, carved from stone or wood or wrought from clay and brought to life in a lengthy and powerful ceremony. Perhaps this alux was brought to life by the grandfather of the shaman who cleansed your energy. Perhaps he was formed by the potter who lives not far from here and still creates aluxes in the old ways. Magic is everywhere. It weaves through all of life in the Yucatan. And when you join us, you move into the realm where energy and the threads of life weave themselves around you, bringing legends to life, rebirthing the ancient and the sacred and changing the color of your aura, the very energy that you move in, that you are accustomed to. Come spend 3 days in the tiny pueblos deep in the Yucatan. Swim in cave pools, meet artists whose work is animated and given breath, receive cleansing and healing from a generational healer, and make connections with the locals. Hear their stories and ask them your questions. Stay in a quaint villa in a tiny Maya village where you can walk the streets and buy sweet breads from the locals. Practice real Maya magic. My name is Laura LaBrie. I am an author and Maya magic expert. I have spent the past 8 years studying with the people, learning about life and how powerful magic weaves itself through even the most mundane things. Join me and expand your mind, your heart and your world view. You can find me online at www.mayaharmony.com email me at [email protected], join my FB group @ MayaHarmonyPM or reach me on Whatsapp at +52 998 341 6255. I am happy to answer your questions and introduce you to the breathtaking, and yet simple magic of the Maya!

Discover the wisdom and magic of Mexico's Mayalands with Laura LaBrie as she has magical, mystical, spiritual adventures in the jungles, beaches, and cenotes of the Riviera Maya and Yucatan Peninsula. Visit ancient ruins and pyramids. See shamanic rituals and ceremonies. Learn about the Tzolkin cale...

23/01/2025

OJO: INFO ON RECENT IMMIGRATION RAIDS
By Pedro Rios
Compas, raza, it's important to make a distinction on which migra agencies are involved in immigration raids. This helps locate our community members when they are detained.
The raids taking place in Kern County are being conducted by Border Patrol agents out of the El Centro Sector Station. These agents wear green uniforms. The vehicles are white with a large green slanted stripe. But they also use unmarked vehicles. While they are charged with enforcement within 100 air miles from the border (including the coastline), this arbitrary territorial limit will not contain their actions to the border, as we are witnessing now. Border Patrol agents are not ICE agents, though someone Border Patrol detains could eventually end up in ICE custody to be detained for a longer period of time or to be removed from the country.
It's unclear if ICE is involved in any of the recent raids in Kern County. ICE agents usually wear khaki-style pants with a vest that could say ICE, Federal Agent, Federal Police, Police, HSI, or any combination of these. ICE agents are not Border Patrol agents. They drive unmarked vehicles with darkened windows, and usually have specific people or a workplace they will target. Usually they've been scoping out their target days before they initiate a raid.
While Border Patrol's and ICE's objectives ultimately have the same damaging impact to our families and communities, knowing which migra agency is involved could help find out where to locate the person detained. Both migra agencies will detain people who are not their targets, known as collateral arrests.
The Border Patrol El Centro Sector can be contacted here: (760) 335-5700. Have a US Citizen family member call to ask about a detained loved one.
For ICE, the locator page is here: https://locator.ice.gov/odls/ #/search
It's important to know your rights - understand what they are and learn strategies to defend them. Don't let fear paralyze us from using our collective power. Get organized!