Wednesday, August 5, 2026
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Edgar Antonio Montenegro, musician, beloved community friend, and San Francisco State University alumnus, dies

Edgar Agustín Montenegro, a Bay Area musician and San Francisco State University graduate remembered for his talent and resilience.

by Marvin Ramírez

La comunidad latina del Área de la Bahía lamenta la muerte de Edgar Agustín Montenegro, músico, graduado de San Francisco State University y ex conductor de autobuses de Muni, recordado por su inteligencia, su talento musical y su perseverancia frente a una vida marcada por grandes dificultades. Montenegro falleció el miércoles 5 de marzo, dejando un profundo vacío entre familiares, amigos y quienes lo conocieron desde sus años de juventud en San Francisco.

Montenegro nació en Granada, Nicaragua, hijo de Delia Bustamante Montenegro. Tras la muerte de su madre, su padre posteriormente contrajo matrimonio con María Montenegro, quien figura entre los familiares que hoy le sobreviven.

Edgar Montenegro con su madre Delia Bustamante Montenegro durante su gradución de secundaria. Edgar Montenegro con su madre Delia Bustamante Montenegro durante su graduación de secundaria.

Desde joven mostró interés por la música y los medios de comunicación. Durante su adolescencia estudió en Mission High School en San Francisco, donde, según recuerda su familia, comenzó a desarrollar su entusiasmo por la música y su sueño de trabajar algún día en radio o televisión.

Ese interés lo llevó a continuar sus estudios en San Francisco State University, donde obtuvo una maestría en radio y televisión. Quienes lo conocieron durante esos años lo recuerdan como una persona brillante y entusiasta, con grandes aspiraciones de desarrollar una carrera en los medios de comunicación.

Sin embargo, la vida tomó un rumbo muy distinto al que había imaginado.

Según relataba el propio Montenegro a amigos cercanos, perdió una oportunidad clave al inicio de su carrera cuando buscaba ingresar a la entonces estación Canal 14, que más tarde se convertiría en Univisión. Para poder realizar una pasantía necesitaba una carta de recomendación que le permitiera adquirir experiencia profesional.

De acuerdo con recuerdos que compartía con amigos, Montenegro pidió una carta de recomendación al conocido productor y administrador radial Marcos Gutiérrez, pero la recomendación nunca llegó.

“Le pedí una carta de recomendación y no me la quiso dar”, recordaba Montenegro con tristeza, según contaba a personas cercanas. Aquella oportunidad perdida, decía, marcó un punto de inflexión en su vida profesional.

Al mismo tiempo, un divorcio ocurrido poco después de graduarse lo enfrentó a fuertes presiones económicas. Amigos recuerdan que durante esos años trabajó en lo que fuera necesario para poder sostenerse y cumplir con sus responsabilidades familiares.

Al mismo tiempo, un divorcio ocurrido poco después de graduarse lo enfrentó a fuertes presiones económicas. Amigos recuerdan que durante esos años trabajó en lo que fuera necesario para poder sostenerse y cumplir con sus responsabilidades familiares.

A pesar de las dificultades económicas, quienes lo conocieron dicen que nunca dejó de trabajar ni de mantener una actitud humilde y amable.

Edgar tocando guitarra. Edgar playing the guitar.

“Edgar was an extremely intelligent person with a noble heart,” recalled his longtime friend Marvin Ramírez, editor of El Reportero and author of this report. “He went through very hard moments, but he was never ashamed of working hard to survive.”

A lifelong passion for music

Alongside his interest in broadcasting, Montenegro developed a deep love for music. He played several instruments, including guitar, bass and piano.

For several years he was part of the group Scorpio and also worked as a resident musician at the now-defunct Transfer Club, once owned by businessman Walter Castillo.

The club hosted the group Actualidad, which later became Franco Brothers, featuring musicians Carlito and Bismark Franco. Montenegro played guitar and bass with the band, earning the respect of fellow musicians for his versatility and musical ability.

Friends say he had a natural ear for music and could easily adapt to different instruments and styles.

Edgar, fue un gran amigo de mi hermano Bismarck y yo, un músico talentoso con mucho ambición de salir adelante. Toco un buen rato con Actualidad de los Hermano Franco, y con Ciencia Latina grupo de mi Tío Walter Castillo”. dijo a El Reportero, el veterano bajista Calito Franco.

“Montenegro era un gran musico, con bastante experiencia en acompañamiento de cantantes y como pianista tenia un repertoire extensivo como solista, dijo a El Reportero Patricia Thumas, una pianista veterana de San Francisco y de descendencia nicaragüense. “Siento mucho de saber de su partida, pues tenia muchos años de no verlo, pero su musicalidad siempre fue de alta categoria y su comunidad lo queria mucho. Que Dios lo tenga en su Gloria, y siempre lo recordamos con mucho cariño”.

Years at Muni

Later in life Montenegro found greater stability working for 14 years as a bus driver for Muni, San Francisco’s public transportation system.

That job allowed him to improve his financial situation and eventually keep the family home after his mother’s death, something that represented an important personal achievement after years of struggle.

But his life changed again after he lost his Muni job. According to friends and family members, the situation had a profound impact on his mental health.

After the accident he suffered neurological problems and long periods of depression. Over the years he underwent extensive medical treatments and medications that significantly altered his life and emotional state.

His final months

In recent months, friends noticed that his emotional condition had become increasingly difficult.

Days before his death Montenegro sent a brief message to this reporter reflecting the pain he was experiencing. In the message he wrote simply: “My son Felix died.”

Edgar fue un ferviente católico, en la foto dando su Primera Comunión. Edgar was a fervent Catholic; in the photo, he is making his First Communion.

He did not provide further details, and when asked about it he did not respond.

Weeks earlier, on January 19, he had also written seeking help.

“Marvin, thank you for helping me last time,” he wrote. “The problems got worse. Please help me again because I even ended up in the hospital. I felt like I almost died.”

Friends say those difficulties deepened the depression he had struggled with for years.

On March 4, people living in the house became concerned when Montenegro did not respond to calls or knocks on his bedroom door. Fearing something was wrong, they entered the house through a bathroom window.

Inside the room they found Edgar lying down with headphones on in front of his computer.

Remembered by his family

Montenegro is survived by his partner, Elsy Hernández, the mother of his three youngest children, Delia, Ernesto and Veronica; his stepmother, María Montenegro; his children Carole, Tony, Edgar, Carlos, Felix (rip), Delia, Ernesto, Veronica; five grandchildren; and his siblings Jimmy Bustamante, Sandra Montenegro, Katy Montenegro, Tracy Montenegro and Gina Montenegro. His brother Marvin Montenegro preceded him in death.

His daughter Delia Montenegro remembered her father with a message filled with love:

“Our dad will forever live in our hearts and the knowledge that he instilled in us will be enough to last a lifetime.”

For those who knew him since his youth in San Francisco, Montenegro’s death represents the loss of a man who, despite the adversities he faced throughout his life, always maintained his love for music, his humility, his affection for others and a deep love for his family. His children, born from three different relationships over the course of his life, were at the center of that family.

Invitation to the community

Family members and friends invite the community to say goodbye to Edgar Montenegro.

The viewing will take place on March 21 and tentatively from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Duggan’s Funeral Home in Daly City. The family is planning a reception around that time.

Those who knew him are invited to accompany the family, share memories and offer condolences.

Friends say Edgar Montenegro will be remembered for his sensitivity, his musical talent and his perseverance in the face of a life filled with challenges.

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Vacancies on the Board or Commission of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors:.

Join a Board or Committee!

The Appraisal Appeals Board (AAB)

resolves legal and appraisal issues between the Appraiser’s Office and property owners. Hearings are quasi-judicial, conducted similarly to a courtroom, with evidence and  testimony presented by the parties. The Board evaluates the evidence and testimony and issues its decision. To be eligible for a position, you must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in California as: (1) a certified public accountant; (2) a real estate broker; (3) an attorney; or (4) a property 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 future boards, commissions, and task forces,

visit https://sfbos.org/vacancy-boards-commissions-task-forces.

Want to work for the city? Visit https://careers.sf.gov/ and find the right job for you!

Child Support Services Department Announcements

Department of Child Support Services Announcements:

Child support issues can be complicated, stressful, and confusing. The Department of Child Support Services helps parents understand the process so they know their rights and options for making and receiving support payments. We are available to help you in person or by phone. We also offer virtual services. Call us today at (866) 901-3212 to learn more. Register online or schedule an appointment at sf.gov/dcss to find out how we can help you.

Count on WIC for healthy families!

WIC is a federally funded nutrition program for women, infants, and children.

You may qualify if you:

● Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have recently given birth;

● Have children under 5 years old; and

● Have a low or middle income; and/or

● Receive Medi-Cal, CalFresh (Food Stamps), or CalWORKS (TANF) benefits; and

● Live in California

WIC offers:

● Nutrition education and health information

● Breastfeeding support

● Food benefits for healthy foods (such as fruits and vegetables)

● Referrals to medical providers and community services

You may qualify:

● If your family’s income falls within the WIC limits.

Learn more at: MyFamily.wic.ca.gov or www.wicworks.ca.gov.

Enroll soon! Call today to see if you qualify and schedule an appointment.

Newly pregnant women, migrant workers, and working families are encouraged to apply.

Fire Department

The San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) is actively recruiting emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and firefighters to serve the City and County of San Francisco. With a legacy dating back to 1866, the SFFD is one of the nation’s most respected and progressive all-hazard fire departments. We protect the city, its coastline, the San Francisco Bay, and San Francisco International Airport.

The SFFD operates California’s largest Community Paramedic program, providing compassionate care to all communities, especially our most vulnerable residents, regardless of socioeconomic status. Our highly qualified and diverse staff reflects the communities we serve through firefighting, emergency medical services (EMS), multilingual public education, and disaster training in English, Cantonese, and Spanish.

We are currently recruiting for Firefighter H2, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) H3 Level 1, and Paramedic H3 Level 2. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Join a department with a long tradition, driven by innovation and committed to equity and public safety. Apply today at sf-fire.org/join.

Apply to Join the Civil Grand Jury.

Volunteer to make a difference for all San Francisco residents.

We are accepting applications for the 2026-2027 Civil Grand Jury from now until May 1, 2026.

The Civil Grand Jury consists of 19 members randomly selected from a pool of applicants who volunteer to serve for a one-year term, from July 1 to June 30 of the following year.

Qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process. During this process, a panel of Superior Court judges will interview each applicant and recommend the most qualified to join the pool of candidates, from which the 19 Civil Grand Jury members will be randomly selected.

For more information and to apply, please visit our website: https://www.sf.gov/apply-join-civil-grand-jury

The City and County of San Francisco encourage public outreach. Articles are translated into multiple languages ​​to provide better public access. The newspaper makes every effort to accurately translate articles of general interest. The City and County of San Francisco and the newspapers assume no responsibility for errors and omissions.

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Selective outrage: The moral confusion of our time

Los canales de protesta iraníes están publicando esta caricatura con este título: “Lo que los izquierdistas y los liberales están haciendo en el mundo occidental”. Iranian protest channels are publishing this cartoon with this caption: “What the leftists and liberals are doing in the Western World.”
Marvin Ramírez, editor

by Marvin Ramírez

The modern world often claims to stand firmly for human rights, justice and compassion. Yet recent events across the Middle East reveal something deeply troubling about today’s global activism: outrage frequently appears selective.

Over the past months, massive protests have erupted across Western cities over the war in Gaza. Demonstrators have filled the streets of New York, London, Paris and even San Francisco carrying banners demanding an end to the violence and calling for justice for Palestinian civilians. The images coming out of Gaza—destroyed neighborhoods, displaced families and civilian casualties—are tragic. No decent person can watch those scenes without feeling sorrow and concern.

But a difficult question increasingly emerges: why do some tragedies ignite worldwide protests while others receive far less attention?

Take Iran.

For years, millions of Iranians have lived under a political system where basic freedoms are severely restricted. Protests demanding reform have repeatedly been met with violent repression. Demonstrators have been arrested, beaten, imprisoned and in many cases killed. Various human rights organizations and reports from inside Iran have documented large numbers of deaths during government crackdowns on dissent.

In some of the most severe waves of repression, estimates suggested that thousands of protesters were killed within short periods as authorities attempted to silence nationwide demonstrations. These were not foreign wars. These were citizens confronting their own government.

Yet outside Iran, the global response was comparatively limited.

Inside the country, the danger of protesting is very real. Citizens who challenge the government risk imprisonment—or worse. In such situations, the outside world becomes the only voice for those who cannot safely speak. That is when international solidarity is supposed to matter most.

Now the situation has taken another dramatic turn.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader for more than three decades, was recently killed amid escalating conflict involving the United States and Israel. His rule, which began in 1989, was marked by strong hostility toward Western powers and strict control over political life inside Iran. His government oversaw repeated crackdowns against protest movements demanding greater freedoms and economic reform.

Following his death and the intensification of regional tensions, demonstrations have suddenly appeared again across many Western cities—this time protesting military action against Iran.

For many observers, the contradiction is difficult to ignore.

When Iranian protesters were being arrested, beaten or killed by their own government, large international demonstrations were relatively rare. But when outside powers confront the regime responsible for those crackdowns, protests quickly multiply.

This raises an uncomfortable question: what exactly is the principle guiding these movements?

If the purpose of activism is to defend human rights and protect innocent lives, then the standard must be universal. The suffering of civilians in Gaza deserves attention. But so does the suffering of Iranians facing repression from their own government.

Justice cannot depend on who the perpetrator happens to be.

Otherwise, activism begins to resemble political alignment rather than a consistent defense of human dignity.

This does not mean protests against war are illegitimate. War is always tragic. Civilians are always the first to suffer. It is natural for citizens to demand peaceful solutions whenever possible.

But protest also carries responsibility.

When movements claim to speak in the name of humanity, their moral vision must include all victims—not only those whose suffering fits a particular political narrative.

If civilians die in Gaza, it matters.

If protesters are killed in Iran, it matters.

If children are abused or exploited anywhere in the world, it matters.

And if authoritarian governments silence dissent through violence, the world should respond with the same urgency.

Justice that appears loudly for some victims but remains quiet for others risks becoming hollow justice.

Human rights cannot be selective. Compassion cannot depend on ideology or politics.

The world does not need louder slogans.

It needs moral consistency.

Only when global activism applies the same moral standard everywhere—regardless of geography, ideology or political convenience—can the call for justice carry real legitimacy.

Otherwise, the silence surrounding some victims will continue to speak louder than the protests for others.

Sources: Reports and background information from Associated Press, Reuters, BBC News, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.

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Supreme Court blocks California’s secret ‘gender transitions’ policies in historic parents’ rights victory

The United States Supreme Court (George Wirt/Shutterstock) -- La Corte Suprema de los Estados Unidos

The landmark 6-3 decision issued on Monday is the ‘most significant parental rights ruling in a generation’ and sets a major nationwide precedent, declared the Thomas More Society

by Doug Mainwaring

In what is being hailed as an “historic” victory for parental rights, the United States Supreme Court ruled against California’s policy of hiding children’s “gender transitioning” while at school from their parents.

California had required school teachers and staff to secretly facilitate children’s “gender transitions” behind their parents’ backs. One family found out that their daughter had been “transitioning” at school with the support of school staff only after she had attempted suicide.

In the case, known as Mirabelli v. Bonta, parents and teachers had asked the Court to intervene after a federal appeals court paused a lower court ruling and reinstated the secret “transitions” policy.

The landmark 6-3 decision issued on Monday is “the most significant parental rights ruling in a generation,” declared a statement from the Thomas More Society (TMS), the attorney organization that represented parents and teachers against the state. “The Court found that California’s secret transition regime likely violates parents’ rights under both the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment and the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, holding that the state ‘cut out the primary protectors of children’s best interests: their parents.’”

“The Court’s forceful reaffirmation of substantive due process sets a landmark precedent for parental rights nationwide, holding that parents, not the state, hold primary authority over ‘the upbringing and education of children,’ including the right not to be ‘shut out of participation in decisions regarding their children’s mental health,’” explained TMS.

“This is a watershed moment for parental rights in America,” asserted Paul M. Jonna, special counsel at Thomas More Society and Partner at LiMandri and Jonna LLP.

“The Supreme Court has told California and every state in the nation in no uncertain terms: you cannot secretly transition a child behind a parent’s back,” said Jonna.

“Gender dysphoria is a condition that has an important bearing on a child’s mental health, but when a child exhibits symptoms of gender dysphoria at school, California’s policies conceal that information from parents and facilitate a degree of gender transitioning during school hours,” wrote the court in its majority opinion. “These policies likely violate parents’ rights to direct the upbringing and education of their children.”

The majority concluded that “the parents who seek religious exemptions are likely to succeed on the merits of their Free Exercise Clause claim. California’s policies likely trigger strict scrutiny under that provision because they substantially interfere with the right of parents to guide the religious development of their children.”

Citing last year’s landmark Mahmoud decision, which ruled in favor of parents who had unsuccessfully sought to opt their children out of school lessons featuring pro-LGBT indoctrination, the court found:

The parents who assert a free exercise claim have sincere religious beliefs about sex and gender, and they feel a religious obligation to raise their children in accordance with those beliefs. California’s policies violate those beliefs and “impos[e] the kind of burden on religious exercise that [have previously been] found unacceptable.

Indeed, the intrusion on parents’ free exercise rights here—unconsented facilitation of a child’s gender transition—is greater than the introduction of LGBTQ storybooks we considered sufficient to trigger strict scrutiny in Mahmoud.

California’s policies will likely not survive the strict scrutiny that Mahmoud demands.

“No more can bureaucrats secretly facilitate a child’s gender transition while shutting out parents. California built a wall of secrecy between parents and their own children, and the Supreme Court just tore it down,” said Peter Breen, executive vice president and head of litigation at Thomas More Society. “This groundbreaking ruling will protect parents’ rights to raise their children as they see fit for years to come.”

“California’s policy of hiding a child’s gender transition from mom and dad was not only unconstitutional, but it was also dangerous,” said Greg Burt, vice president of the California Family Council. “No school should ever place ideology above a child’s well-being or a parent’s God-given authority.”

“This decision sends a powerful message: the Constitution still protects families, and California schools are not above the law,” said Burt.

The court’s decision split conservative and liberal judges, with Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissenting.

The case now returns to the Ninth Circuit for further consideration.

 

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Watsonville to host the 14th annual film festival

Con el Festival de Cine se intentan promover las tradiciones culturales latinas con eventos gratuitos para la comunidad a lo largo del año. The Film Festival aims to promote Latino cultural traditions with free events for the community throughout the year.

By Magdy Zara

Under the theme “Art as Resistance,” the 14th Annual Watsonville Film Festival will take place, featuring film screenings, live music, after-parties, artist talks, and other events.

For 10 days, more than 50 films will be screened across more than 20 events in three different cities simultaneously.

With this year’s theme, “Art as Resistance,” the goal is to celebrate storytelling as culture, joy, and community power.

In its 14 years, this film festival has been more than just a series of screenings; it’s a cultural movement that elevates filmmakers and Latinx, Indigenous, and underrepresented voices, while creating spaces for audiences to connect, reflect, and take social action.

Some of the feature films selected for this year are:

  • “Disgust: Without Permission” by Travis Gutierrez Senger
  • “Freedom” by Brenda Avila-Hanna
  • “Following Harry” by Susanne Rostock
  • “Traces of Home” by Colette Ghunim
  • “Between the Sun and the Sidewalk” by Helen De Michiel

To view the complete program and reserve your tickets, please visit 2026wff.eventive.org/Schedule

The 14th Annual Watsonville Film Festival will take place from March 12-21, 2026, in Watsonville, Santa Cruz, and Salinas, starting at 5 p.m.

28th Annual Mexican New Year Festival in San Jose

The Annual Mexican New Year (also known as Mexica New Year) is considered the oldest and largest Aztec New Year ceremony in the United States.

San José will be the location for the ceremony celebrating Yancuic Xihuitl (New Year) Ce Tochtli. Efforts have been made to ensure this is a special event for all visitors and the community at large.

“This is an important shift in the signs and the beginning of a new era, a time of unity, abundance, and creativity,” stated the event organizers.

March 12th at dawn marks the beginning of Yancuic Xihuitl (New Year) Ce Tochtli; the ceremony will take place in the beautiful Emma Prusch Park on the weekend of March 13th-15th, 2026, starting at 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Live Salsa with La Rampa and Borinquen Orchestras

Want to dance all night? Then get ready to enjoy the fiery live salsa rhythms of La Rampa and Borinquen Orchestras all night long.

This promises to be an unforgettable night filled with vibrant rhythms. Feel the energy of Orquesta Borinquen as salsa comes alive live. Whether you’re a salsa pro or simply love to dance, this event is the perfect way to relax and enjoy an authentic atmosphere.

Don’t miss this live salsa experience at 855 Terry A. Francois Blvd., San Francisco, next Saturday, March 14, starting at 4 p.m.

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Latin stars shaping the World Cup

La superestrella argentina Lionel Messi celebra durante un partido de la Copa Mundial, símbolo de la influencia duradera de los jugadores latinos en el torneo de fútbol más importante del planeta. Argentine superstar Lionel Messi celebrates during a World Cup match, a symbol of the enduring influence of Latin players on the world’s most important football tournament.

por el equipo de El Reportero

As the World Cup captures the attention of millions around the globe, Latino players are once again among the tournament’s most electrifying figures, carrying both the hopes of their nations and the pride of a vast international community.

From South America to Europe, Latin stars have delivered some of the tournament’s most dramatic moments—goals, assists and leadership that define the spectacle of the world’s most watched sporting event.

One of the most recognizable figures remains Lionel Messi, whose influence on the field continues to inspire younger generations of players throughout Latin America. Even after years at the top of world football, Messi’s vision and composure remain unmatched.

“Messi represents the passion of our continent,” said Argentine sports commentator Martín Liberman during a recent broadcast. “When he plays, millions of children across Latin America see what is possible.”

Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior has also emerged as one of the tournament’s most dynamic attackers. Known for his speed and creativity, the young star symbolizes the new generation of Latin talent that is redefining the global game.

Meanwhile, Colombian winger Luis Díaz has become a symbol of resilience and determination, representing not only Colombia but also the growing impact of Latin players across Europe’s top leagues.

And on the global stage, French superstar Kylian Mbappé, who has strong ties to diverse cultural roots, has continued to demonstrate the explosive talent that makes the World Cup unforgettable.

Soccer analyst Ana María Navarro noted that Latino players bring a distinctive style to the tournament. “There is creativity, improvisation and joy in the Latin game,” she said. “It’s a style that connects with fans everywhere.”

Beyond statistics and victories, these athletes embody stories of perseverance—from humble neighborhoods to the brightest stadiums in the world.

For millions of Latino fans in the United States, including the large community in the San Francisco Bay Area, the World Cup is more than a sporting event. It is a celebration of identity, culture and pride.

As the tournament unfolds, one thing remains clear: the spirit of Latin football continues to shape the World Cup, reminding the world that the beautiful game speaks many languages—but its heart often beats in Spanish and Portuguese.

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California voter ID proposal could appear on November ballot

Apoyo a la iniciativa de identificación de votantes (Ilustración genérica)

by the El Reportero staff

A proposal that would require California voters to show identification before casting a ballot could appear on the statewide ballot this November if supporters gather enough verified signatures.

Organizers behind the initiative say they have submitted roughly 1.3 million signatures in an effort to qualify the measure for the ballot. Boxes containing petitions were delivered Monday to the Riverside County Registrar of Voters as part of a coordinated statewide filing.

Election officials will now review and verify the signatures to determine whether the initiative meets the legal threshold required to move forward.

Supporters of the proposal held a rally outside the elections office as the petitions were delivered, arguing that the measure would strengthen election integrity and restore confidence in the voting process.

“When voters are given the opportunity this November, I believe Californians will support voter identification and stronger safeguards for elections,” said State Sen. Tony Strickland, a Republican from Huntington Beach who supports the measure.

The proposed constitutional amendment would require voters to present government-issued identification before casting a ballot and direct election officials to verify the citizenship status of registered voters while maintaining accurate voter rolls.

U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert, a Republican representing Corona, attended the rally and voiced support for the initiative.

“If we had voter ID requirements, it would increase confidence in election outcomes and strengthen trust in our electoral system,” Calvert said.

Opponents, however, argue that voter fraud is extremely rare and warn that strict identification laws could create obstacles for some voters.

According to research from the Brennan Center for Justice, among roughly 250 million mail-in ballots cast nationwide between 2000 and 2020, there were 193 criminal convictions for voter fraud.

“It’s actually more likely that someone will be struck by lightning than impersonate another voter and illegally cast a ballot,” said Jenny Farrell, executive director of the League of Women Voters of California.

Critics say voter ID laws could disproportionately affect seniors, low-income residents, people with disabilities and individuals whose identification may not match their voter registration records.

Thirty-six states already require some form of voter identification, although the strictness of those laws varies widely and remains the subject of ongoing political debate.

County officials will now review the submitted signatures. If enough are validated, the proposal could appear before California voters on the November ballot.

With reports from regional news services.

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The fiber gap: Why whole foods outshine supplements for optimal health

by Patrick Lewis

In an era of quick fixes and synthetic solutions, dietary fiber remains one of the most overlooked yet essential components of human health. Fiber supports digestive regularity, reduces inflammation, helps lower cholesterol and is linked to protection against chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease and colon cancer. Yet despite decades of nutritional research highlighting these benefits, most people consume far less fiber than experts recommend. The typical modern diet averages only about 14 grams per day, while health authorities suggest adults aim for roughly 25 to 38 grams daily. The shortfall is largely the result of a food environment dominated by ultra-processed products that displace fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole grains.

Whole foods remain the most powerful way to close this fiber gap. Unlike processed products or isolated fiber powders, natural foods deliver complex nutritional packages that include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds. These nutrients work together in ways scientists often describe as nutritional synergy. In other words, fiber in a bean, seed or vegetable does not work alone; it interacts with other compounds that help regulate digestion, support immune function and nourish the trillions of microbes that make up the human gut microbiome.

Some of the richest natural fiber sources are also among the most accessible foods. Black beans, for example, deliver about 16 grams of fiber per cooked cup and have been linked to improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation. Almonds provide roughly 10 grams of fiber per 100 grams while also supplying healthy fats that support heart health. Chia seeds are another standout, containing more than 30 grams of fiber per 100 grams along with omega-3 fatty acids that contribute to cardiovascular protection.

Fruits and vegetables also contribute significant fiber while providing additional protective nutrients. Passion fruit contains more than 20 grams of fiber per cup and delivers vitamin C, potassium and polyphenols associated with cellular protection. Artichokes, often overlooked in everyday cooking, supply nearly seven grams of fiber in a single medium vegetable together with magnesium and other minerals that support liver and metabolic health. Avocados add roughly 10 grams of fiber per fruit along with monounsaturated fats known to help regulate cholesterol.

Fiber supplements such as psyllium husk or guar gum can provide temporary help for people who struggle to meet daily targets. However, they offer only isolated fiber rather than the diverse nutritional matrix found in whole foods. Trendy powdered blends marketed as comprehensive wellness solutions often contain surprisingly small amounts of fiber. Some popular green drink mixes provide only two grams per serving, far below levels needed to influence digestion or metabolic health in a meaningful way.

Nutrition researchers increasingly emphasize that the quality of fiber sources matters as much as the quantity. Whole plant foods contain soluble and insoluble fibers that perform different tasks in the body. Soluble fibers absorb water and help slow digestion, which stabilizes blood sugar and supports cholesterol control. Insoluble fibers add bulk to stool and help keep the digestive tract moving efficiently. Together they create conditions that support beneficial gut bacteria, organisms now recognized as central players in immunity, metabolism and even mental health.

Building a fiber-rich diet does not require exotic ingredients or expensive health products. Simple habits can dramatically increase intake: adding beans to soups, topping oatmeal with chia seeds, snacking on almonds, or including avocado and vegetables in daily meals. Even modest changes repeated consistently can move people closer to recommended levels. Public health experts say these incremental steps are far more sustainable than relying on supplements or restrictive diets that are difficult to maintain.

Ultimately, prioritizing fiber means returning to dietary patterns centered on minimally processed foods. Legumes, fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts have nourished human populations for centuries, long before the rise of modern supplement industries. By emphasizing these traditional foods, individuals gain not only fiber but a broad spectrum of nutrients that work together to protect long-term health. In that sense, choosing whole-food fiber is less about following a trend and more about reclaiming a simple nutritional foundation that modern diets have gradually pushed aside. Experts say consistent intake supports digestion, heart health and metabolic balance across the lifespan for adults and aging populations alike worldwide today.

Food.news.

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Culture Ministry seeks to block another sale of pre-Columbian artifacts — this time, on eBay

by Mexico News Daily

Mexico has once again intervened in an attempted sale of valuable artifacts from its pre-Columbian past, and demanded the return of the objects.

The Culture Ministry denounced the sale planned to take place on the online platform eBay of 195 archaeological pieces and demanded that the auction by an eBay user in Orlando, Florida, identified as “Coins Artifacts,” be withdrawn.

“After reviewing listings on the eBay platform, specialists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) determined that the 195 pieces offered by a user in Orlando, Florida, are pre-Hispanic artifacts from our nation,” Culture Minister Claudia Curiel de Icaza said in a post on X.

INAH’s statement says bluntly that the artifacts belong to Mexico. It points out that the export of such artifacts has been prohibited since 1827, meaning that their presence abroad derives from an illicit extraction.

Curiel stated that the Mexican government “appeals to ethics and respect” for cultural heritage and calls for the removal of the advertisements from the platform and for the adoption of the necessary measures to prevent their offering and eventual commercialization.

She added that all corresponding legal proceedings have been initiated with the aim of having the pieces repatriated to Mexican territory through official diplomatic and legal channels, in order to protect the cultural heritage of the country.

Just last week, the Culture Ministry also demanded the suspension of an in-person auction of 40 archaeological pieces by the Millon Auction House scheduled for Feb. 27 in Paris, France.

In a statement pertaining to that case, Curiel urged the auction house to “reflect on the ethical and moral codes that should govern the marketing of looted cultural property, a practice that contributes to cultural dispossession and threatens the memory of peoples.”

Earlier this year, Mexico successfully recovered archaeological artifacts from Portugal, consisting of a female figure from western Mexico associated with fertility rituals, a polychrome Maya vessel from the Classic period and a Zapotec urn representing the god Cocijo, deity of rain and fertility.

Illicitly traded cultural property is often sold either in illegal markets around the world or through legal avenues such as public auctions, including online. Many of the artifacts that Mexico has recovered are the result of a federal government task force created in 2023 that works with local authorities abroad to seek judicial redress and halt auctions in several countries.

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Hidden cameras and surveillance raise concerns along California’s border

An automated license plate reader sits along Old Highway 80 near Boulevard in the Jacumba Hot Springs area of San Diego on Feb. 7, 2026. Photo by Zoë Meyers for CalMatters. -- Un lector automático de matrículas se encuentra a lo largo de la antigua autopista 80, cerca de Boulevard, en el área de Jacumba Hot Springs de San Diego, el 7 de febrero de 2026.

by Wendy Fry and Khari Johnson

CalMaaters

On a quiet two-lane road in eastern San Diego County, James Cordero noticed what looked like an abandoned trailer parked along the roadside. Curious, he stopped to take a closer look and discovered a hidden camera connected to a surveillance network that records the license plates of vehicles traveling through the remote border region between San Diego and Arizona.

Cordero, 44, says he has since located numerous similar devices concealed inside trailers, construction barrels, and roadside equipment along highways in San Diego and Imperial counties. Cameras have appeared near Jacumba Hot Springs, outside the Golden Acorn Casino in Campo, and along Interstate 8 near the In-Ko-Pah Gorge.

The devices began appearing after California granted permits to federal agencies, including U.S. Border Patrol, allowing them to install automated license plate readers (ALPRs) along certain state highways during the final months of the Biden administration. Privacy advocates estimate that more than 40 cameras now operate in the region, feeding data into federal systems.

License plate readers automatically capture images of passing vehicles and record information such as the plate number, vehicle make and model, the state where the car is registered, GPS coordinates of the camera, and the date and time of the image. Federal reports say the photographs may also capture drivers, passengers, and surrounding environments.

Civil liberties advocates argue the technology amounts to mass surveillance of ordinary residents who have committed no crime. Critics say the system collects large amounts of personal data and may conflict with California laws designed to regulate how automated plate readers are used.

“There’s no transparency, that’s the worst part,” Cordero said.

Supporters of the technology say it can help authorities locate suspects involved in serious crimes, identify trafficking patterns, and even locate missing persons.

“If you’re not doing anything illegal, why worry about it?” said Allen Stanks, a longtime resident of Jacumba.

Still, some residents say they have had unusual encounters with federal agents that they believe may be connected to the surveillance system. In one case described by a community organizer, Border Patrol agents questioned his grandmother—who has legal residency—about why she frequently visited a casino in the Imperial Valley.

“She asked them, ‘Is something wrong with that?’” he said. “They said it just seemed suspicious.”

Concerns about the surveillance network have also grown among humanitarian volunteers working near the border. Cordero spends part of his free time helping migrants who cross remote desert areas, leaving water, food, and clothing along migration routes.

He worries the cameras could allow authorities to track volunteers.

“I’m not worried about myself,” Cordero said. “I’m worried about our volunteers being tracked or questioned.”

Earlier this year, the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) and a coalition of civil rights groups sent a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Transportation urging them to revoke permits allowing federal agencies to install the devices.

EFF investigators mapped more than 40 cameras along Southern California border roads. The organization argues that the federal surveillance network may be bypassing a 2016 California law that regulates how automated license plate readers can be used.

According to Caltrans, the state transportation agency has approved eight permits allowing federal agencies such as Customs and Border Protection and the Drug Enforcement Administration to install license plate readers within highway rights-of-way. The agency says it does not operate the cameras or control how the technology is used.

Records show that between 2015 and 2024 federal agencies submitted 14 permit applications for surveillance devices in California highway areas. Eight were approved, four were withdrawn, and two did not move forward.

For Cordero, the issue remains personal. While traveling through remote desert areas to check supply drops for migrants, he says he continues to encounter signs of dangerous crossings and, at times, human remains.

Moments like those are why he keeps returning to the borderlands—and why the discovery of hidden surveillance cameras has left him uneasy.

“It took me passing by a few times before I realized what it was,” Cordero said of the trailer camera he first spotted along Old Highway 80.

Editor’s note: This article has been edited and condensed to fit available space.

 

 

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