By Delia Ruelas
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the iconic Restaurant Bar René’s, founded in 1924, the book “Rene’s: The Story of My Father” was presented at the Municipal Historical Archive.
During the presentation, it was acknowledged that the iconic Restaurant Bar René’s was the first business to boost tourism in Rosarito, as expressed by the author, Yolanda Ortíz Palacio, daughter of the municipal pioneer René Ortíz Campoy.
The event featured City Historian Juvenal Arias Pérez and the book’s historian and editor Santiago Acha Ojeda, who, through a series of images and anecdotes, recounted the life and work of Don René Ortíz Campoy. A figure who made history in the municipality, his generosity and warm personality earned him the affection of all Rosarito residents.
They also reminisced about his political career, his close friendship with governors, his influence on municipal life, and, above all, his many years of work at the helm of Restaurant René’s.
Javier Velazco Amarillas, coordinator of the Historical Archive, acknowledged that the book is filled with anecdotes and experiences collected throughout Ortíz’s life, offering a deep insight into Rosarito’s history.
“Rene’s: The Story of My Father” documents the family legacy in works and actions that began in 1924 with the inauguration of Restaurant René’s, the first establishment dedicated to tourism, and other businesses that emerged over the years, shaping Rosarito’s economy.
Agustín Gama Pérez, director of the Institute of Art and Culture, presented a plaque of recognition to Yolanda Ortíz for the 100th anniversary of Restaurant René’s and to the historians who participated in this historic conference.