Latest news with #Gringo
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
We Evolved From Jiu-Jitsu Strangleholds To Empowering Locals
Costa Rica has been known to surfers for decades, going back to the 60s, but ever since the early 90s, when the country decided to really emphasize the importance of their natural environment and embrace eco-tourism, it has thrived and become a model for countries around the world. Many visitors were so well impressed and taken by the natural beauty and way of life that they decided to move there themselves. In recent years this has caused concern, especially in some communities, as the mostly wealthy visitors have changed the very fabric of the place with extravagant homes and a tendency to think that they have every right to call the shots. Lo siento chicos, no es asi. The following article is the first part of the story of Surfistas Locales by Tara Ruttenberg Ph.D., about a group of local instructors who work together to ensure their own livelihoods and homes are respected. Portraits by Roselle Knaus. Unpopular opinion: "The locals are always right." Costa Rican surf instructor and style master Tavo Rio says it with a broad smile, his lean body tan like cinnamon, and shirtless beneath the breezy shade of the coconut palms. 'Twenty years ago, Santa Teresa was just trees. Now it's full of buildings. It used to be five or ten of us in the water. Now it's a hundred every day, maybe more.' We're at the south end of the stretch of beach break he's been surfing since he was a kid. Before paved roads, electric lines, development. Before surf tourism really became a thing. As we're all uncomfortably aware, Tavo's story is unfortunately not unique. Gringo surfers show up with Endless Summer dreams on their tropical horizon. Sleepy-fishing-village-turns-busy-surf-town seemingly overnight. Bars. Cafés. Surf camps. Yoga resorts. Backpacker hostels. Luxury vacation villas. All predominantly foreign owned. Speculative real estate markets pushing land grabs for the ultra-wealthy. Inflation and inequality. Local cultures marginalized and native families edged out of town. All that fucking trash. Famously, Steve Barilotti named this ubiquitous phenomenon 'surfer colonialism in the twenty-first century.' In Costa Rica, local surfers call it coastal gentrification, where native families are priced out, towns transform rapidly, and paradise becomes a playground for the wealthy. In popular surf towns the fabric has become markedly non-Costa Rican, with the majority of coastal businesses owned by foreigners – upwards of 80 percent, in fact, in the popular northwestern region of Guanacaste, according to the Tamarindo Integral Development Association. In Playa Jacó, one of Costa Rica's original surf tourism destinations-turned-surf city by the sea, gentrification and foreign investment have transformed the coastline and cultural landscape dramatically since the 1990s. Jacó native, Juan Calderón, is an architect, surf instructor, entrepreneur, and newly appointed municipal government advisor whose grandfather was among the original town founders. Juan owns and runs a surf hostel out of his converted family home in the heart of Jacó, where we chat over coffee, roasted right in his backyard. 'As tourism towns grow, the cost of living gets more expensive for the community. Price inflation on rental property displaces native Costa Rican people who find everyday life more and more difficult to afford.' Juan pauses for a sip, cleans the lens on his glasses, fondles his beard. He looks astutely professorial, save for the six fresh stitches adorning his upper lip – a surf accident, he says. 'Sure, tourism brings some jobs and opportunities for a certain sector, but many local people are being affected by the incredibly high cost of rent and property. Since Jacó has become a destination focused on tourists, the international prices here are much higher than the reality of the costs that locals and natives can pay.' Juan's family coffee company, Bohío, borrows its name from the thatched roof mud-floor huts his grandparents built and lived in as farmers and fishermen prior to the arrival of tourism. We flip through the worn pages of a photo book made for his family as a gift from one of Jacó's early visitors, with images of the undeveloped coastline in the 1970s. A far cry from the many high-rise hotels, casinos, condo buildings, and shopping centers lining Jacó's main drag today. Overdevelopment, rent inflation, and an increasingly high cost of living aren't the only impacts of coastal gentrification in Costa Rican surf towns. Livelihood access and job security have become serious issues confronting local surf tourism workers, as many foreign-owned businesses hire other foreigners and pay them under-the-table wages to evade taxes and worker benefits required by Costa Rican law. In the surf tourism labor market, safeguarding jobs for local surf instructors has become something worth organizing for. Enter Surfistas Locales, a national network of Costa Rican surfers and surf instructors promoting the local surf industry and advocating for stronger regulation and enforcement against foreign tourists working in the country as surf instructors without legal work permits. Surfistas Locales co-founder Mauricio Ortega Chaves started the first surf school in Tamarindo in 1996, and celebrates the Costa Rican surf industry as a 'blessing for the community. It's helped the community grow and families feel supported, because before the industry existed here there wasn't much work. It was hard to survive. So, it's an industry that locals have to protect for the benefit of local communities.' It's late morning on New Year's Eve, and peak tourist season slaps hot and heavy across lounge chairs and candy-striped beach umbrellas, migrant vendors pushing five-dollar coconut water. 'Tis the season. Between fielding phone calls and slinging surf lessons, Mauricio spills the tea on Surfistas Locales' origin story, complete with jiu-jitsu strangleholds and neighborhood vigilante visits intended to remind disrespectfully loud-mouthed tourists that localism is very much alive and well in pura vida-landia. 'That's how the engine of the movement started. To tell people that when you enter a country, you need to respect [the locals]. We created a mission and a vision for Surfistas Locales so it wouldn't become a nation-wide gang, because that would have been very dangerous.' As it's evolved over the past few years, Surfistas Locales has become an informal organization, network and movement to connect and empower locals in surf towns across the country. They've sponsored the installation of 'Our Rules' signs at popular surf spots to communicate acceptable norms of surf etiquette, including 'respect the locals' at the top of the list, as well as 'hire a local guide if you don't know how to surf' and 'be humble, don't destroy our pura vida'. Visiting surfers: consider yourselves forewarned.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Downtown Youngstown restaurant closing
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — A downtown Youngstown restaurant announced it's closing its doors. Gringo's on Phelps Street announced on Facebook Tuesday that they have decided to close. They said the decision wasn't easy and thanked the community. It's unclear whether the decision is effective immediately. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Black America Web
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Gran Centenario Launches Don't Be A Gringo Campaign
Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE Gran Centenario, founded in 1857 by Lazaro Gallardo, considered to be the first Tequila Master Distiller ever, is now one of the leading brands in the world. At the top of the month, Gran Centenario launched its new, yearlong 'Don't Be A Gringo,' which aims to help educate others about Mexico's rich heritage and move away from longheld stereotypes. Crafted in the Highlands of Jalisco state in Mexico, Gran Centenario offers five expressions of its award-winning tequila: Plata, Reposado, Anejo, Cristalino, Leyenda, and Gallardo. For the brand's 'Don't Be A Gringo' campaign, pop-up events in Chicago New York was recently hailed featuring the Rápido Gringo Test aimed at helping others 'Ungringo their Cinco' by testing them on Mexcican knowledge, pronunciation of Spanish words, and more. With Cinco de Mayo upon us, bars across the United States will be united in revelry, celebrating the Mexican holiday. In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is a very regional holiday with celebrations occurring in Puebla to celebrate the Mexican military's victory in 1862 over the French forces. How things are done in the States centers the holiday around celebrating Mexican food and culture, although some stereotypical tropes, such as sombreros, still persist. For those who want to take the Rápido Gringo Test, head on over to Gran Centenario's website to test your knowledge. After taking the test, that is, if you gain a passing grade, you'll receive a code to try out some tequila goodness for yourself. The brand is also offering a $5 rebate for those who pick up a bottle of Gran Centenario. There are also some fantastic cocktails to check out. 'As México's #1 tequila and a proud Mexican family-owned brand, Gran Centenario is rooted in Mexican culture. That's why we're launching 'Don't Be A Gringo' and inviting everyone to toss out their Gringo tequila and embrace the real deal,' said Lander Otegui, EVP of Marketing and Innovation, Proximo Spirits. 'This isn't just about what's in your glass – it's about celebrating the true essence of México. So, grab a glass of Gran Centenario, say adiós to Gringo habits, and celebrate the way we do in México—with authenticity, pride, and of course, the tequila México drinks!' Learn more about the 'Don't Be A Gringo' campaign by clicking here. — Photo: Source: Gran Centenario SEE ALSO Gran Centenario Launches Don't Be A Gringo Campaign was originally published on
Business Wire
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
Say ‘ Adiós' to Gringo Habits With 'Don't Be A Gringo': A New Campaign From Gran Centenario Tequila
BUSINESS WIRE)--With the launch of its first-ever U.S. multi-channel campaign, 'Don't Be A Gringo,' Gran Centenario ® is inviting all Gringos (you know who you are!) to toss aside the donkey piñatas, hard-shell tacos, and sombreros to dive deeper into the heart of México and experience true Mexican culture, and Tequila. Gran Centenario ®, México's #1 tequila 1, is here to rescue you from the one thing worse than when México loses a fútbol game: Gringo behavior. The engaging new advertising campaign launches with the help of Mexican content creators Shiadanni and Abelardo Campuzano, and Latina SNL Director Adriana Cruz. Starting April 29, 'Don't Be A Gringo' will launch across social, online, TV platforms, as well as via in-person events and virtual experiences, encouraging consumers to abandon their Gringo tendencies. DON'T BE A GRINGO, DRINK GRAN CENTENARIO Americans are absolutely locos for Mexican culture – and the data proves it! Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the U.S. 2, one in 10 restaurants serve Mexican food 3 and tequila continues to be one of the fastest-growing spirits in the country 4. But despite this appreciation, many Americans get caught up in clichés and fall into 'Gringo' habits when celebrating Mexican culture, particularly during Cinco de Mayo. For Gran Centenario, 'being a Gringo' isn't about race, nationality, language, or skin color. It's about a behavior; it's about those well-intentioned but misguided attempts to join the fiesta, like mispronouncing quesadilla, calling it soccer instead of fútbol, thinking Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day, and, dios mío, drinking a Gringo tequila instead of Gran Centenario, the tequila México actually loves. This campaign playfully invites everyone to move past superficial appreciation and shares how to authentically embrace the time-honored traditions, foods, drinks and rich culture that embody the spirit of México. Founded in 1857 in Jalisco, México by the first Maestro Tequilero in history, Lázaro Gallardo, Gran Centenario is a family-run Mexican tequila brand that set the standard for tequila craftsmanship, which still defines the brand generations later. Offering a range of expressions, including Plata, Reposado, Añejo, Cristalino, Leyenda, and Gallardo, Gran Centenario's unique production process, 'Selección Suave,' involves hand-selecting and blending tequila from newly rested spirits to aged reserves, creating an exceptionally rich and smooth flavor. This meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to quality are why Gran Centenario is the #1 tequila in México. 'UN-GRINGO YOUR CINCO': TAKE THE ' RAPIDO GRINGO TEST' Cinco de Mayo hotspots will soon be buzzing with Gringos lifting their margaritas in spirited – but slightly offbeat – celebrations, and Gran Centenario is stepping in to invite those well-intentioned Gringos to 'Un-Gringo Your Cinco!' On May 3 in New York City and Chicago, Gran Centenario will host 'Rápido Gringo Tests' to see if consumers test positive for being a Gringo. Think you've nailed it by ordering tacos for the pregame and pressing play on that mariachi playlist? Not so fast. From Spanish pronunciations to naming México's most beloved dishes, Gran Centenario's 'Rápido Gringo Test' activations will show consumers how to celebrate Mexican culture the right way. Here's where you can get tested: New York City, Stone Street: Gran Centenario is the Official Tequila of Cinco de Mayo Stone Street. Check out our tent on Saturday, May 3, from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Chicago, River North: Take your 'Rápido Gringo Test' near North La Salle Drive and West Kinzie Street on Saturday, May 3, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. GRAN CENTENARIO COCKTAILS FOR UN PESO (PLUS OTHER PRIZES!) Whether consumers in New York or Illinois test positive for being a 'Gringo' or pass with flying colors, they can treat themselves to a Gran Centenario cocktail for just one Mexican peso (that's five cents!) 5 through an on-site rebate – make sure to try one of Gran Centenario's signature cocktails: Un-Gringo'd Margarita or Un-Gringo'd Paloma. Consumers will also have the chance to win unforgettable prizes, including an extraordinary trip to México to savor authentic local flavors and culture, a full year's supply of Gran Centenario Tequila 6, exclusive VIP tickets to experience a real fútbol game and so much more. If you can't attend in person, you can still Un-Gringo! Visit to take an online version of the 'Rápido Gringo Test,' earn a $5 rebate discount to try Gran Centenario, and to learn more about the 'Don't Be A Gringo' campaign and Gran Centenario. 'As México's #1 tequila and a proud Mexican family-owned brand, Gran Centenario is rooted in Mexican culture. That's why we're launching 'Don't Be A Gringo' and inviting everyone to toss out their Gringo tequila and embrace the real deal,' said Lander Otegui, EVP of Marketing and Innovation, Proximo Spirits. 'This isn't just about what's in your glass – it's about celebrating the true essence of México. So, grab a glass of Gran Centenario, say adiós to Gringo habits, and celebrate the way we do in México—with authenticity, pride, and of course, the tequila México drinks!' Let's face it, there will still be work to do after Cinco, Gringos! But don't worry—there's mucho más to come. The 'Don't Be A Gringo' campaign will continue throughout 2025 in more unexpected ways. Click HERE for campaign photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes footage. About Gran Centenario Tequila Gran Centenario Tequila was founded in 1857 by Lázaro Gallardo, the first Maestro Tequilero in history, and remains rooted in the time-honored traditions and rich culture that embody the spirit of México. Gran Centenario is a proud, family-owned tequila crafted in the highlands of Jalisco, México, at Ex Hacienda Los Camichines. The exceptional quality and taste of Gran Centenario Tequilas make them perfect to sip neat, on the rocks, or in any tequila cocktail, for all the moments in life that call for celebration. As the #1 tequila in México, Gran Centenario is also the official tequila of fútbol and a proud sponsor of the Mexico National Team and Leagues Cup. The brand has received numerous awards at prestigious spirits industry competitions, including Double Gold at both the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the Bartender Spirits Awards, Platinum at the L.A. Spirits Awards, and Bronze at the World Tequila Awards. The brand was also named a 'Hot Prospect' by Impact, the leading source for exclusive data on the alcoholic beverage industry in the United States, in 2019, 2021, and 2022. Gran Centenario ® Tequila. 40% Alc./Vol. (80 proof). Trademarks owned by Becle, S.A.B. de C.V. ©2025 Proximo, Please drink responsibly. Contest Abbreviated Rules: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Starts 5/1/2025 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 5/3/2025. Open to legal residents of the 50 US/DC, 21+ only, who are in attendance at a participating activation location. Click here for Official Rules, including how to enter, odds, prize details & restrictions. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: Proximo Spirits, Inc. 3 Second Street, Suite 1101, Jersey City, NJ 07302. 1 Based on volume, Total Mexico Tequila Nielsen+ISCAM ending on December 31, 2024 2 Language Testing International, 'Which Languages Are Growing the Most in the United States?,' January 28, 2025. 3 Pew Research Center, "About 1 in 10 restaurants in the U.S. serve Mexican food," January 11, 2024. 4 Gourmet Pro, 'A Definitive Guide to the US Spirits Market [2025],' January 28, 2025. 5 Assumes 20/1 Mexican Peso/U.S. Dollar exchange ratio. 6 Prize will be paid in its cash equivalent. No alcoholic beverage is part of any prize award.
Yahoo
04-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Paris Jackson Teamed Up With Two Other 'Nepo Babies' for a Surprising TV Cameo & We're Seeing Double
Over the years, Paris Jackson has often dipped her toes into acting. She was in an episode of Swarm, a few episodes of American Horror Stories and movies like Sex Appeal, Habit and Gringo. So, of course, it should come as no surprise that she's making an appearance in ABC's hot new show, Doctor Odyssey. This week, the 27-year-old will play one of the college-aged 'vixens' onboard the cruise in the 'Spring Break' episode alongside two familiar faces. She'll be wrecking havoc with Reese Witherspoon's daughter Ava Phillippe, who will be making her acting debut, and Charlotte Lawrence, Bill Lawrence and Crista Miller's actress and singer daughter. More from SheKnows Reese Witherspoon's April Book Club Pick Had Her 'Hooked' & Is Available Now at 30% Off From the bikini-clad photos, it seems Jackson, Phillipe and Miller will be quite a dynamic trio. In the promo, there's a short clip of Jackson's character Nessa flirting with Joshua Jackson's character, Dr. Max Bankman. 'We're having a party in our room tonight,' she tells him. 'You should come.' In another clip, Nessa, who's now rocking a little black dress, suddenly passes out. 'Tell me what she took,' Max says while giving her CPR. 'Call the infirmary, tell them 'Code Alpha' right now.' As he finishes that thought, he also drops to the ground. 'Max?!' Philipa Soo's character, Nurse Avery, shouts out. 'I'm not getting a pulse.' But while this cliffhanger might be enough to make you want to hit play, fans of Phillippe and Witherspoon might be watching because of how similar Phillippe looks to her mom on the show. After all, her pink triangle bikini must be inspired by Elle Woods' Harvard video application essay in Legally Blonde, right? In the comments from the show's TikToks, fans seem to be shocked at their similarity. 'You 100% have your mother's smile!!' wrote one commenter. 'The fact that she reminds me exactly of her mom and her dad at the same time is wild,' another wrote, nodding to her dad and Witherspoon's ex-husband Ryan Phillippe. 'A young Reese Witherspoon,' another fan wrote. 'Got it from her mama.' Looking at them side by side, we couldn't agree more!Best of SheKnows 23 Celebrities Who Are Members of the Church of Scientology Does Robert Irwin Have a Girlfriend? Details on His Dating History & Famous Ex 19 Period Pieces That Don't Just Feature White People
