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Muni takes central role in Carnaval San Francisco 2026 celebration

De izq. a der.: Nashelly Chávez, Michael Roccaforte y Danbee Song decorando la carroza del Carnaval 2026 de Muni. Left-right: Nashelly Chavez, Michael Roccaforte, Danbee Song decorating Muni’s Carnaval 2026 float.

by the El Reportero staff

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), through its Muni transit system, is preparing for a major role during Carnaval San Francisco 2026 as one of the festival’s primary sponsors and transportation partners.

The annual celebration, scheduled for May 23–24 in the Mission District, is expected to attract thousands of residents and visitors for two days of music, dance, culture and community activities. The Grand Parade, one of the festival’s biggest attractions, will take place Sunday, May 24 along Mission Street.

Because of the large crowds and multiple street closures planned throughout the Mission District, transportation officials are encouraging the public to use Muni to attend the festivities. Several transit lines are expected to be rerouted during the parade, including the 12 Folsom, 27 Bryant, 48 Quintara, 14 Mission and 49 Van Ness lines. Officials say using public transportation will help reduce traffic congestion and improve access to the event for families and visitors traveling from different parts of the Bay Area.

Beatriz Florez Huertas, who works with Muni community outreach efforts, said public transportation remains the best option for attending Carnaval because many streets will be closed throughout the Mission District during the celebration.

“Public transit is the best way to get to Carnaval San Francisco. Several streets in the Mission District will be closed to support the festivities, and Muni routes that normally run along Mission Street will be detoured to nearby streets,” Florez Huertas told El Reportero. “Please plan ahead. If you have time, visit our table on Harrison Street between 20th and 21st so we can help you apply for free or discounted Muni service right on the spot, provided you meet the eligibility requirements.”

As part of its participation in Carnaval, Muni will feature some of San Francisco’s most iconic transit vehicles during the Grand Parade, including a motorized cable car and a specially decorated vintage Muni bus representing the city’s transportation history.

Festival attendees will also be able to visit the SFMTA information booth near 21st and Harrison streets, where staff members will answer questions about accessibility services, reduced-fare programs and transportation initiatives available throughout the city.

“We are proud to celebrate with the community and be a resource for people to learn about the services we provide,” Florez Huertas said. “We’re happy to bring out some of our vintage vehicles to add to the spirit of the parade.”

This year’s Carnaval theme, “La Copa del Pueblo” (“The People’s Cup”), celebrates soccer culture and community spirit ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Organizers say the 48th annual festival will feature more than 60 contingents and over 3,000 performers representing cultures from across Latin America and other parts of the world.

Readers can find the complete version of this article, including additional information about Carnaval San Francisco 2026 and Muni services during the event, at elreporteroSF.com under the Local Briefs section.

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The AAB resolves legal and valuation issues between the Bureau of the Appraiser and real estate owners. Hearings are quasi-judicial in nature and are conducted similarly to a court proceeding, with the presentation of evidence and testimony by the parties involved. The Board then evaluates this evidence and testimony and issues its decision. To be eligible for appointment to a position, you must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in California in one of the following areas: (1) Certified Public Accountant; (2) Real Estate Broker; (3) Attorney; or (4) Real Estate Appraiser accredited by a nationally recognized organization, or certified by the Bureau of Realtors or the State Board of Equalization.

For a complete list of current and upcoming boards, commissions, and task forces, please visit https://sfbos.org/vacancy-boards-commissionstask-forces.

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NOTICE INVITING BIDS

The Peralta Community College District (PCCD) is calling for sealed Bids from qualified firms to upgrade its facilities to foster a better environment for its students by addressing existing damage and safety concerns at the ADA and Site Improvements at College of Alameda Main Campus and 860 Atlantic Science Annex (Bid No. 25-26/11). Bids are to be submitted electronically (via PlanetBids), by 3:00 PM, on June 30, 2026.

Follow the link below for the bid opening:

https://peralta-edu.zoom.us/j/83175613551

This project consists of various renovations that include replacement of existing flooring, ceiling tiles, drinking fountains, door hardware, lighting, exit signage, restroom plumbing fixtures, restroom tiles, restroom stalls, new paint as well as site improvements throughout the campus

The work to be performed under this contract includes the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment, transportation, services, permits, temporary controls and construction facilities, and all general conditions, seismic requirements, general requirements and incidentals required to complete the work on the project in its entirety as described in the contract documents.

In order to perform the work, Bidders at the time of the Bid Opening and for the duration of the project shall possess a valid California Contractor’s license and certifications in order to qualify to perform the Work: Class A and/or B General Contractor.
A Mandatory Pre-Bid/Site walk meeting will be held at College of Alameda, located at 555 Ralph Appezzato Memorial Pkwy, Alameda, CA 94501, on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 10:00AM. We will meet in front of Building CC (Children’s Center).

Copies of the bid documents may be obtained by clicking on the following links: https://build.peralta.edu/vendorregistry

PlanetBids Vendor Portal

Governing Codes:
GC 53068
EC 81641
Publication Dates: May 15, 2026, and May 22, 2026

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NOTICE INVITING BIDS

The Peralta Community College District (PCCD) is calling for sealed Bids from qualified firms to upgrade its facilities to foster a better environment for its students by addressing existing damage and safety concerns at the Merritt College: ADA and Site Improvements Project (Bid No. 25-26/04). Bids are to be submitted electronically (via PlanetBids), by 2:00 PM, on June 30, 2026.
Follow the link below for the bid opening:
https://peralta-edu.zoom.us/j/88627804170

This project consists of various renovations that include replacement of existing flooring, ceiling tiles, drinking fountains, door hardware, lighting, exit signage, restroom plumbing fixtures, restroom tiles, restroom stalls, new paint as well as site improvements throughout the campus

The work to be performed under this contract includes the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment, transportation, services, permits, temporary controls and construction facilities, and all general conditions, seismic requirements, general requirements and incidentals required to complete the work on the project in its entirety as described in the contract documents.

In order to perform the work, Bidders at the time of the Bid Opening and for the duration of the project shall possess a valid California Contractor’s license and certifications in order to qualify to perform the Work: Class A and/or B General Contractor.
A Mandatory Pre-Bid/Site walk meeting will be held at Merritt College located at 12500 Campus Drive, Oakland, CA 94619, on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 1:00PM. We will meet in front of Building L (Library).

Copies of the bid documents may be obtained by clicking on the following links: https://build.peralta.edu/vendorregistry

PlanetBids Vendor Portal

Governing Codes:
GC 53068
EC 81641
Publication Dates: May 15, 2026, and May 22, 2026

El Reportero

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Community calendar | Bay Area events (May–June 2026)

Michelle Gonzalez (voz principal), Don Marsh (también conocido como The Enhancer) (teclados), Gabriel Sandino (guitarra). Michelle Gonzalez lead Vocals, Don Marsh AKA The Enhancer Keyboards, Gabriel Sandino Guitar

by the El Reportero staff

Paris Escovedo Brings “Ghetto Jazz” to Oakland
Bay Area percussionist, producer and Billboard-charting artist Paris Escovedo will perform a concert at Yoshi’s celebrating the upcoming release of his new album while honoring the legacy of his father, Latin rock musician Coke Escovedo. The Oakland-born performer blends funk, soul, Afro-Cuban rhythms, hip hop and Latin jazz into what he calls “Ghetto Jazz.”

The evening is expected to include guest appearances and tributes to the sounds of Azteca and Santana, featuring musicians connected to the Escovedo family’s Bay Area music history. Sunday, May 17. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show starts at 7 p.m. , 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland, CA 94607. Tickets: $30-$54.

“Meet Your Assessor” Community Conversation in North Beach
San Francisco Assessor-Recorder Joaquín Torres will host a public meeting focused on property assessments, homeowner protections and recent changes affecting property values throughout the city.

Residents will have the opportunity to learn more about Propositions 13 and 19, property value declines, assessment appeals and services available through the Assessor-Recorder’s Office. Organizers say the event is intended to help residents better understand assessments while providing direct access to city officials for questions. Wednesday, May 20. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 7:15 p.m. North Beach Branch Library, 850 Columbus Ave., San Francisco, CA 94133. Free admission. Registration: bit.ly/ASRD3CommunityMeeting.

Latin Jazz Evening with The Cuband at Tilden Golf Course
The Cuband will bring live Latin jazz rhythms to The Overlook inside Tilden Park Golf Course in the Berkeley hills.

The group features local musicians blending Cuban-inspired percussion, saxophone and Latin jazz sounds in an outdoor setting overlooking the East Bay. Organizers say the evening will also include Cuban-style food specials, games and a family-friendly atmosphere designed for music lovers and visitors seeking a relaxed Friday gathering after work. The event is free and open to all ages. Friday, May 22, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., The Overlook at Tilden Park Golf Course, 10 Golf Course Dr., Berkeley, CA 94708.

Poncho Sanchez Returns to Oakland with Latin Jazz Performance
GRAMMY-winning conguero, bandleader and Latin jazz musician Poncho Sanchez will bring his Latin Jazz Band to Oakland’s Yoshi’s for an evening of Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz improvisation and percussion-driven grooves. Internationally known for blending bebop, salsa, funk and traditional Latin sounds, Sanchez has spent decades building a reputation as one of the leading figures in contemporary Latin jazz.

His concerts often feature extended percussion sessions, energetic dance rhythms and tributes to influential artists including Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaría and Dizzy Gillespie. The performance is expected to attract Bay Area Latin jazz fans and longtime followers of Yoshi’s live music series. Friday, May 22, 7:30 p.m., Yoshi’s, 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland, CA 94607.

Mission Varrio Project at Carnaval San Francisco
Mission Varrio Project will perform live during Carnaval San Francisco as part of the Main Stage entertainment lineup. Known for blending Latin rhythms, percussion and multicultural influences, the Bay Area group is expected to bring dance music to one of the city’s annual street festivals.

The appearance will also coincide with the filming of a music video for the group’s upcoming single “Carnavalera,” inviting the public to participate in the festive atmosphere. Sunday, May 24, 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., Main Stage, 22nd Street & Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA. Free admission.

La Gente SF cerrará Carnaval San Francisco con ritmos latinos y energía multicultural. La Gente SF will close out Carnival San Francisco with Latin rhythms and multicultural energy.

La Gente SF Returns to Carnaval San Francisco
Bay Area Latin fusion group La Gente SF will return to Carnaval San Francisco for a closing performance on the festival’s 22nd Street and Harrison Street stage. Known for blending reggae, cumbia, salsa, hip hop and world music influences, the San Francisco-based band has built a strong following through energetic live shows and multicultural sounds rooted in the Mission District community.

Organizers say the group will perform the festival’s final live set of the evening, bringing dance rhythms and celebration to one of San Francisco’s largest annual cultural events. Sunday, May 24, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., Carnaval San Francisco Main Stage, 22nd Street & Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA. Free admission.

Tony Lindsay & Friends Live at East Palo Alto’s EPACENTER
Award-winning vocalist Tony Lindsay, best known for his longtime work with Santana, will headline a special concert alongside an all-star lineup of Bay Area musicians at EPACENTER in East Palo Alto. The performance is expected to feature soul, funk, jazz, Latin and rhythm-and-blues influences performed by veteran musicians including David K. Mathews, Karl Perazzo, Billy Johnson, Myron Dove and Cedricke Dennis.

Organizers say the concert celebrates the Bay Area’s multicultural music traditions while supporting community arts programming at EPACENTER. Saturday, June 6, 2026. Doors open at 6 p.m.; show begins at 6:30 p.m. EPACENTER, East Palo Alto, CA. Tickets: $25 for East Palo Alto residents, $75 general admission, $125 VIP.

 

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Indigenous warrior remembered 505 years after his death

La conmemoración tuvo lugar en Tizatlán, un antiguo señorío gobernado por la dinastía Xicohténcatl. INAH. The commemoration took place in Tizatlán, an ancient lordship ruled by the Xicohténcatl dynasty. INAH.

by the El Reportero staff

Ceremonies, artistic presentations and cultural gatherings were held this week in the Mexican state of Tlaxcala to commemorate the 505th anniversary of the death of Xicohténcatl Axayacatzin, the Indigenous warrior remembered for opposing the alliance between Spanish conquistadors and Tlaxcalan leaders during the conquest of Mexico.

The main events took place May 12 at the archaeological zone of Tizatlán, considered one of the most important ceremonial centers of the ancient Tlaxcalan republic and historically connected to the Xicohténcatl family. Participants honored the warrior through civic ceremonies, traditional dances and historical presentations highlighting his role as a symbol of Indigenous resistance and cultural identity.

Conmemoraron el aniversario luctuoso de Xicohténcatl, guerrero indígena opuesto a la alianza hispano-tlaxcalteca en Tlaxcala históricamente. Conmemoraron aniversario luctuoso de Xicohténcatl, guerrero indígena opuesto a alianza hispano-tlaxcalteca en Tlaxcala históricamente.

A controversial historical figure

Known as Xicohténcatl the Younger, the military leader remains one of the most debated figures of the conquest period. Historical accounts describe him as strongly opposing the alliance established between Tlaxcalan rulers and Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés after the Spaniards arrived in central Mexico in 1519.

According to historians, Xicohténcatl believed the Spanish presence threatened Indigenous traditions, political independence and religious beliefs. He led military resistance against Spanish forces during early confrontations near Tlaxcala before local leaders eventually agreed to ally themselves with Cortés against the Mexica Empire.

Reports indicate the young commander reluctantly obeyed military orders after the alliance was formed, although he continued distrusting the Spanish campaign. In 1521, shortly before the fall of Tenochtitlán, Cortés accused him of desertion and conspiracy. Xicohténcatl was later captured near Texcoco and executed by hanging on May 12, 1521.

Symbol of Indigenous identity

In recent years, the warrior’s legacy has gained renewed recognition across Tlaxcala. Since 2022, the local Congress officially declared May 12 as the “Day of Xicohténcatl Axayacatzin, Identity and Strength of Tlaxcala.”

Organizers of this year’s events said remembering the Indigenous leader helps preserve historical memory and encourages reflection on the conquest from Indigenous perspectives. Cultural groups participating in the ceremonies added that younger generations are showing renewed interest in Indigenous history and traditions connected to the conquest era.

Today, statues, murals and public spaces throughout Tlaxcala continue honoring Xicohténcatl as a defender of Indigenous sovereignty and cultural identity.

– With reports by México Desconocido.

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SF proposal seeks to limit shadow-related delays on housing projects

Nueva propuesta aceleraría proyectos de vivienda en San Francisco. New proposal would accelerate housing projects in San Francisco. Image by El Reportero.

by the El Reportero staff

San Francisco officials unveiled a new housing proposal this week aimed at reducing delays caused by disputes over shadows cast by new developments, part of a broader effort to accelerate housing construction across the city.

The measure, known as the SHADE Act, was introduced Thursday by San Francisco Supervisor Bilal Mahmood. Supporters say the proposal would prevent certain housing projects from being stalled for years because of complaints that taller buildings could create additional shadows over parks, plazas, or public spaces.

City leaders backing the measure argue that San Francisco’s housing shortage has reached critical levels and that lengthy approval battles have slowed construction while driving up housing costs. Advocates for the proposal say some neighborhood opposition groups have increasingly used shadow regulations and environmental review processes to delay or block residential developments, even during a worsening affordability crisis.

The legislation would streamline portions of the approval process for qualifying projects, especially those that include affordable housing units or are located near public transit corridors. Supporters believe the changes could help the city meet state housing mandates and encourage more residential development in densely populated neighborhoods.

Critics, however, warn that reducing oversight could weaken protections for public spaces and diminish environmental review standards that residents have relied on for decades. Some community groups say shadows can negatively affect parks and recreational areas that are already limited in many parts of the city.

The debate reflects broader tensions in San Francisco between preserving neighborhood character and increasing housing production as officials face mounting pressure to address affordability and homelessness.

The proposal is expected to generate significant discussion at City Hall in the coming weeks as supervisors and community advocates weigh its long-term impact on development and urban planning.

With reports from local media and community sources.

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Mexico pushes back against reports of alleged CIA role in cartel-linked killing

Apartamentos Live Oak en Ukiah, 26 de febrero. Live Oak ofrece a sus residentes acceso a espacios comunes, como un jardín comunitario y salas de reuniones para visitantes. Live Oak Apartments in Ukiah on Feb. 26. Live Oak offers its residents access to common spaces, such as a community garden and meeting rooms for visitors. Photo by Manuel Orbegozo for CalMatters

by the El Reportero staff

Mexico’s federal government is strongly denying reports that U.S. intelligence agencies participated in a deadly operation targeting an alleged cartel member near Mexico City, as tensions continue growing over security cooperation between Mexico and the United States.

The controversy began after CNN published a report claiming that the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) had expanded covert anti-cartel activities in Mexico and may have been connected to an operation that resulted in the death of Francisco Beltrán, an alleged Sinaloa Cartel operative known as “El Payín.”

Beltrán died March 28 when an explosive device destroyed a vehicle traveling along the Mexico City-Pachuca highway. Another passenger was also killed in the blast. Mexican authorities initially treated the attack as part of ongoing organized crime violence tied to disputes between criminal groups.

International attention intensified after CNN cited anonymous U.S. officials who allegedly claimed that the CIA had increased intelligence and tactical operations against Mexican cartels through a specialized unit known as the Ground Branch.

The report suggested the agency may have provided surveillance, planning or operational support connected to actions against cartel members.

Mexico’s government quickly rejected the allegations.

Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch said Mexico does not allow foreign agencies to carry out unilateral military or covert operations inside national territory.

“The Mexican government rejects any suggestion that foreign agencies conduct lethal operations inside our country,” García Harfuch said publicly.

President Claudia Sheinbaum also dismissed the claims during her daily press conference, criticizing what she described as irresponsible reporting by foreign media outlets.

“This information is false,” Sheinbaum said. “There is no evidence of operations of this type carried out by foreign agencies in Mexico.”

The CIA, which rarely comments publicly on intelligence matters, also issued a denial. U.S. officials reportedly warned that such reports could place intelligence personnel and bilateral cooperation efforts at risk.

Drug cartels continue controlling major trafficking routes while expanding into extortion, human smuggling, fuel theft and other criminal activities. Violence linked to rival criminal organizations remains a serious issue in Mexican states.

At the same time, political debate in the United States has intensified regarding how aggressively Washington should respond to cartel activity.

President Donald Trump and several Republican lawmakers have repeatedly argued that Mexican cartels should be treated as terrorist organizations.

Those comments have generated concern among Mexican political leaders, who view any unauthorized foreign intervention as a violation of national sovereignty.

Mexican officials insist that cooperation with the United States must remain limited to agreed intelligence sharing, training and coordinated law enforcement activities.

The issue became more sensitive following another incident earlier this year involving two U.S. personnel believed to be connected to intelligence operations in Mexico.

The individuals died in a vehicle crash in the northern state of Chihuahua after reportedly participating in an anti-drug mission alongside Mexican authorities. The incident raised questions about the extent of U.S. involvement in domestic Mexican security operations.

President Sheinbaum later stated that Mexico’s federal government had not been informed beforehand about the participation of the U.S. personnel involved in that operation.

Meanwhile, The New York Times separately reported that Mexican forces carried out the operation against Beltrán while U.S. agencies allegedly provided intelligence and logistical assistance. Mexican authorities also denied that version of events.

Experts note that intelligence collaboration between Mexico and the United States has existed for decades, but public acknowledgment of operational participation by U.S. agencies remains politically controversial inside Mexico because of the country’s history of defending its sovereignty from foreign intervention.

The controversy also comes as internal conflict within the Sinaloa Cartel continues escalating following arrests, extraditions and leadership struggles involving major cartel figures.

Violence among rival factions has increased in several regions as criminal groups compete for control over trafficking routes and illegal operations.

For now, both Mexico’s government and the CIA continue firmly denying that U.S. intelligence agencies participated directly in lethal operations on Mexican soil.

Despite those denials, the reports have fueled renewed debate in both countries over how far bilateral security cooperation should go in the continuing fight against organized crime.

– With reports from Mexico News Daily, CNN and international media sources.

 

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Leading candidate for UN secretary general would push abortion until birth worldwide

Michelle Bachelet durante conferencia internacional sobre derechos humanos y políticas globales. Michelle Bachelet during international conference on human rights and global policies.

Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet told reporters she would use the UN’s top post to push for the full decriminalization of publicly funded abortion worldwide

The selection process for the next U.N. secretary general began in November 2025 – and one of the top candidates is an abortion extremist who supports abortion until birth.

The leading candidate is currently Rafael Grossi of Argentina, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency. One of the most discussed candidates, however, is Michelle Bachelet, the former president of Chile and former U.N. high commissioner for human rights.

Bachelet was initially nominated by Brazil, Mexico, and Chile, which was led at the time by a leftist government. Chile, which elected a staunchly conservative and pro-life government last year, has since withdrawn its support for her nomination. Bachelet is hoping the support from the other sponsoring countries will keep her candidacy viable.

Bachelet, however, has become increasingly controversial as her track record as U.N. high commissioner comes under scrutiny. According to Julia Książek at the Ordo Iuris Center for International Law:

During her tenure as the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, she was actively involved in promoting the so-called reproductive and sexual rights, which include, among other things, abortion – at least in the eyes of the abortion lobby, which for years has been using the concept of “sexual and reproductive health and rights” to try to sneak the so-called right to abortion into international law. … During a recent press conference after the hearing before the General Assembly, she announced that, while serving as Secretary-General, she would push for the right to abortion on demand up to birth, emphasizing the need to implement the decisions of the CEDAW Committee.

“This U.N. body is calling for the decriminalization of abortion in all cases, its public funding, and access for transgender people – including children – to gender-transition procedures and privileges associated with their preferred identity,” Książek noted. “Bachelet knowingly invoked CEDAW twice, even though U.N. treaties do not recognize abortion as a human right.”

Bachelet’s abortion extremism has attracted the attention of pro-life politicians in the United States. As first reported by Devex on March 30, a coalition of 28 GOP senators and members of Congress have called on the Trump administration to veto Bachelet’s bid, writing a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on March 25.

“Dr. Bachelet’s resume reveals a pro-abortion zealot intent on using political authority to override state sovereignty in favor of extreme agendas,” the letter states. “She has incorrectly claimed that abortion is a human right while failing to provide an honest assessment of the true human rights abuses committed by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party).” The GOP leaders also noted Planned Parenthood’s support for Bachelet, as well as her pro-abortion track record as Chilean president, when she “campaigned on weakening Chile’s pro-life law protecting unborn life in all circumstances.”

As U.N. high commissioner, Bachelet published a formal statement the day Roe v. Wade was overturned, condemning the Dobbs decision. “Access to safe, legal and effective abortion is firmly rooted in international human right law and is at the core of women and girls’ autonomy and ability to make their own choices about their bodies and lives, free of discrimination, violence and coercion,” she stated, adding that Dobbs “strips such autonomy from millions of women in the U.S.”

The position Bachelet is vying for is significant. “The person holding the position serves not only as the organization’s highest official, but also as a mediator, an initiator of political action, and the symbolic representative of the international community,” Książek noted. “Amid rising geopolitical tensions, ideological disputes, and global crises, this choice assumes special significance, shaping how the entire U.N. system functions.”

Rubio is staunchly pro-life and his State Department has taken an active interest in pro-life efforts around the world, delivering a robust new Mexico City Policy in January and monitoring the arrests of pro-life activists in the U.K. Thus, it seems likely that the U.S. will vigorously oppose Bachelet’s candidacy.

“The United States is looking for a practical, driven, and reform-focused candidate who will safeguard the valuable contributions of member states, restore competent management, and streamline the organization significantly,” a State Department spokesperson told EWTN. “Any new secretary-general needs to return the U.N. to its primary purpose – maintaining peace and security in the world rather than the absurd, politicized, woke ideology that has undermined the institution’s effectiveness.”

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Study links five nutrients to lower dementia risk among older adults

by Coco Somers

A new study published in May 2026 identified five dietary nutrients associated with a reduced risk of dementia among older adults. Researchers followed more than 6,200 U.S. adults aged 50 and older for seven years.

The study analyzed 101 dietary nutrients using food frequency questionnaires and cognitive assessments, then created composite scores to evaluate how nutrient combinations affected dementia risk.

Five nutrients were linked to a lower dementia risk: isorhamnetin, dietary fiber, beta-tocopherol, beta-tocotrienol and manganese. The findings highlight the potential of diet to influence cognitive decline, adding to growing research connecting whole food patterns to brain health. Researchers noted the observational design cannot prove causation but provides strong associative evidence.

Five nutrients linked to protective effects

Isorhamnetin, a plant flavonol with anti-inflammatory properties, was associated with neuroprotective effects and lower dementia risk. Sources include apples with skin, berries, green tea, kale, onions and pears.

Berry anthocyanins have been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier and improve signaling in brain regions responsible for memory.

Dietary fiber, which feeds gut bacteria and supports cognitive function, was also protective. Fiber has been shown to delay brain inflammation and aging.

Beta-tocopherol and beta-tocotrienol, forms of vitamin E with antioxidant activity, were linked to protection against oxidative stress. Sources include hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and walnuts.

Manganese, essential for enzyme function and brain energy metabolism, was also protective. Sources include oats, pecans, pineapple and spinach.

The study reinforces that these nutrients work together. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables provide antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins C and E that may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Foods associated with higher dementia risk

The study found diets high in added sugars were linked to increased dementia risk.

Recent research published in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging reported that high sugar intake was associated with a 43% higher dementia risk, even after controlling for age, sex, education and lifestyle factors.

Some dairy-derived nutrients, including lactose, were also associated with greater risk, though researchers cautioned dairy foods also contain beneficial nutrients like vitamin D and calcium. Experts noted overall dietary patterns matter more than individual foods.

A separate 25-year Swedish study found full-fat cheese and cream were linked to lower dementia risk, highlighting the complexity of dairy’s role in brain health.

The study’s authors emphasized their findings on lactose should not be interpreted as a blanket recommendation to avoid dairy.

Overall health benefits

The nutrients linked to lower dementia risk also support general health. Dietary fiber aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress, while manganese contributes to energy metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Flavonoid-rich foods have also been associated with lower concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers.

In addition, choline, a nutrient similar to B vitamins, has been linked to slower cognitive decline.

The overall dietary pattern emphasized by these findings — fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and whole grains — is consistent with the Mediterranean diet, which research suggests may delay brain aging by 2.5 years.

Implications for dietary recommendations

The findings suggest emphasizing whole, unprocessed foods may help reduce dementia risk. Researchers said nutrients likely work in combination, supporting overall dietary patterns rather than isolated supplements.

The study adds to evidence that diet is a modifiable risk factor for dementia and that focusing on protective nutrients may offer practical guidance for older adults seeking to preserve cognitive function. Food.news.

 

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