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Casa Circulo Cultural invites you to its fundraising dinner

by Magdy Zara

In order to raise funds to continue its work, Casa Circulo Cultural celebrates the month of love with an evening that combines the charm of theater, the magic of live music and an exquisite gastronomic selection.

Círculo Cultural is a multidisciplinary community-based arts organization dedicated to creating cultural programming that reflects the experiences of Latino communities in the San Francisco Bay Area while promoting leadership development for both children and adults.

This organization is committed to serving low-income and vulnerable families by providing them with social, economic, health and wellness, and cultural elements for the present and future well-being of each family member.

Its activities include classes in music, art, theater and dance, martial arts, chess, literature, multimedia and more. Classes are taught primarily in Spanish to develop, preserve and foster the Latino and Hispanic language and culture.

This is a great opportunity to share a special night with friends, family or that special someone and help a worthy cause.

The reception will be this Saturday, February 22, at 6 p.m., at 3090 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, the cost is $50.

CultuCuba prepares for Carnival 2025

To celebrate its 20 years, CultuCuba invites the Cuban community in San Francisco to be part of its comparsa for this year’s San Francisco Carnival 2025.

The doors are open for new dancers and percussionists who want to join the contingent of the CultuCuba Carnival 2025.

The deadline to register is March 30, 2025. If you want good music, incredible dancers, joy and lots of energy, you can’t miss it.

The cost to participate in the comparsa is a $50 registration fee, $200 for the full series or $25 per rehearsal session.

The choreography and live music will be provided by Susana Arenas, Manuel Suárez and Ramón Alayo.

For more information, please email cultucuba@gmail.com or cubanmusicanddance@gmail.com.

Rehearsals will be every Sunday starting this Sunday, February 23 at 11 a.m., at the Peruvian Tradition Cultural Center, 2815 23rd St, San Francisco.

Moon Azteca Dance and Art School opens its doors

After not having a headquarters, the Moon Azteca Dance and Art School finally has a home and wants to share with all its students, family members and followers the celebration of this new beginning. This dance school has 10 years of dedication, hard work, and an unwavering passion for Aztec culture and is excited to announce that they are moving into their new dance studio at The Mira Theater Guild.

Their teacher, who they lovingly call “the teacher,” affirms that this has not been an easy journey, but it has been filled with love, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to their students and traditions.

To commemorate this unforgettable moment, they invite you to the ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony, which will be completely free on February 27, 2025, starting at 4 p.m. at The Mira Theater Guild in Vallejo.

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Miguel Ríos, Rock en Español legend, soon to tour the US with “A Todo Pulmón”

Miguel Ríos, leyenda del Rock en Español - Miguel Ríos, legend of Rock in Español.

“Rock is still my form of expression, and as long as I have a voice, I will continue singing for those who make it their own,” said Miguel Ríos about his long-awaited return to the stage

by El Reportero news services

The iconic pioneer of Spanish rock has confirmed that his A Todo Pulmón tour will take him to several cities in the United States in the coming months. This tour marks a new chapter in the career of an artist who has transcended generations and borders, establishing himself as one of the most influential figures of the genre in the Spanish-speaking world.

Miguel Ríos, born in Granada, Spain, began his career in the 1960s, at a time when rock was still viewed with suspicion in Spanish-speaking countries. However, his talent and perseverance led him to challenge the norms and open paths for future generations of musicians. In 1970, he achieved global recognition with his rock version of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, entitled Hymn to Joy, which sold more than seven million copies and placed him at the top of the charts in the United States and Europe.

Throughout his career, he has released more than 20 studio and live albums, consolidating himself as one of the most emblematic voices of rock in Spanish. Songs such as Santa Lucía, Directo al corazón, Bienvenidos and El rock no tiene la culpa have left an indelible mark on the collective memory of fans of the genre.

The A Todo Pulmón tour is a celebration of his musical legacy and a recognition of the loyalty of his audience. In each performance, Ríos promises to offer a tour of his most memorable hits, combined with the energy and passion that have characterized him over the years. Furthermore, the tour comes at a time when rock in Spanish is experiencing a resurgence, with new generations discovering the pioneers of the genre and claiming its importance in musical history.

For the Latino community in the United States, Miguel Ríos’ tour represents a unique opportunity to reconnect with the music that marked their lives. In cities like San Francisco and the Bay Area, where rock in Spanish has had a significant cultural impact, his legacy is still present in festivals, radio stations and gatherings of music lovers who continue to celebrate his songs.

Although no dates have been confirmed in California, the enthusiasm among his fans is evident. For decades, Ríos has maintained a close relationship with the Latino public in the U.S., who have accompanied him throughout his career and have witnessed his musical evolution. His ability to reinvent himself and stay relevant shows that his impact goes beyond time and fashion.

As Miguel Ríos prepares to tour stages in different cities, his message remains the same: rock in Spanish is more alive than ever, and his music continues to be the sound of a generation that has never stopped singing A Todo Pulmón.

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South Florida lawmakers propose bill to allow Venezuelans to avoid deportation, remain in U.S.

Migrantes venezolanos deportados de Estados Unidos llegan al Aeropuerto Internacional Simón Bolívar en Maiquetía, Venezuela, el lunes 10 de febrero de 2025. -- Venezuelan migrants deported from the United States arrive at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, Venezuela, Monday, Feb. 10, 2025.

by the El Reportero’s wire services

A battery of South Florida lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle have teamed up to re-introduce a bill in Congress that would give hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans in the U.S. a path to legal residency.

U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Weston, María Elvira Salazar, R-Miami and Frederica Wilson, D-Miami Gardens, announced this week they are sponsoring the re-introduction of H.R. 1348, the Venezuelan Adjustment Act, for Venezuelans who entered U.S. before or on December 31, 2021.

The legislation faces a steep hill to climb on Capitol Hill, where the House and Senate are moving swiftly to back President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.

“The Venezuelan Adjustment Act will give security and peace of mind to tens of thousands of Venezuelans who have fled a murderous, totalitarian regime,” Wasserman Schultz, whose congressional district includes one of the nation’s largest Venezuelan-American communities, said in a statement.

“As Trump closes off legal pathways for migrants, we need this legislation to re-open the door for those who should have the opportunity to become permanent legal residents as Cubans have been able to for years,” she said referring to the Cuban Adjustment Act, which allowed Cubans to flee the communist island nation.

Salazar said the regime of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro has forced millions of Venezuelans to leave the country because of decades of economic and political upheaval.

“As long as Maduro forcibly remains in power, this crisis will only get worse,” said Salazar in a statement. “I am proud to reintroduce the Venezuelan Adjustment Act to provide refuge for those who have endured incredible suffering, so they do not have to return home to face the wrath of the dictatorship.”

Said Wilson in a statement: “Sending [Venezuelans] back isn’t just wrong — it’s inhumane. I’m proud to support a legal pathway for certain Venezuelan nationals in the U.S. because abandoning them in their time of need is not an option.”

The proposed legislation specifically benefitting Venezuelans comes only weeks after the Trump’s administration said it was ending protections that shielded roughly 350,000 Venezuelans from deportation, leaving them with less than two months before they lose their right to work in the U.S.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s order affects 348,202 Venezuelans living in the U.S. with Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, which is slated to expire in April. That’s about half of the approximately 600,000 who have TPS. The remaining protections are set to expire at the end of September.

The decision by the administration is among the latest actions targeting the immigration system, as officials work to make good on Trump’s campaign promises of cracking down on people illegally living in the country and to carry out the largest mass deportation effort in U.S. history.

In making its decision, the Department of Homeland Security said conditions had improved enough in Venezuela to warrant ending protective status.

“The sheer numbers have resulted in associated difficulties in local communities,” the secretary’s decision says. She cited members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as among those coming to the U.S.

The gang originated in a lawless prison in the central state of Aragua more than a decade ago but has expanded in recent years as millions of desperate Venezuelans fled Maduro’s rule and migrated to other parts of Latin America or the U.S.

During his campaign, Trump repeatedly hammered at dangers posed by the gang, sparking criticism that he was painting all immigrants as criminals.

More than 7.7 million Venezuelans have left their home country since 2013, when its economy unraveled and Maduro took office. Most settled in Latin America and the Caribbean, but after the pandemic, migrants increasingly set their sights on the U.S.

The country’s protracted crisis obliterated the middle class and pushed millions into poverty.

Politically, the country is at an impasse after Maduro was sworn in for a third six-year term last month despite credible evidence that former diplomat Edmundo González, who represented the U.S.-backed opposition coalition in the July election, defeated him by a more than 2-to-1 margin.

Immigration advocates and Venezuelan activists in South Florida dispute Noemi’s assessment of Venezuela, saying conditions have not improved and that it’s not safe to send people back.

In the waning days of the Biden administration, Noem’s predecessor, Alejandro Mayorkas, extended the protections for Venezuelans until October 2026. Noem revoked that decision.

– The Associated Press contributed to this story.

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Scams and threats against immigrants: A first-person account

by Marvin Ramírez

One day, while I was checking Facebook, I came across an ad titled The Corner of Culture, followed by a dark yellowish box with the following text: “Registration is now OPEN for the ENGLISH COURSE at the University of Pennsylvania: it’s free, online, and they give an official certificate…”.

I immediately thought of Goya, a young professional from Nicaragua who arrived undocumented several months ago with the hope of a better future. She hasn’t had time to learn English, but she does have plenty of will. Since she arrived, she has worked at whatever she can to support her two children, whom she left with her mother in a small town, and to pay off the loan she took out on her home. Her mother is very sick, and that keeps her in a constant state of suffering, especially when she loses her job. Learning English has been difficult for her.

I sent her the ad without much thought, and within minutes, she had already contacted the supposed school and enrolled. Unsuspectingly, she provided all her personal details, including three references. What seemed to be a free course soon turned into a trap: they demanded an initial payment of $199 and weekly fees of $34. She called me in anguish, asking if it was worth paying. I advised her not to do it, to look for free options on the internet. I suggested she cancel immediately and ask them not to contact her anymore.

What followed was even more alarming. Instead of respecting her decision, they began harassing and threatening her. They sent her a message full of spelling mistakes, which made me seriously doubt that this was a legitimate institution. They warned her that, having spoken to an advisor, she was already committed to financing and had to pay or face consequences. The intimidation did not stop there.

When she sent a message cancelling the supposed contract, the response was a direct threat: she was warned that if she did not make payments, her credit history would be affected and she would face additional charges. Then, she was told that they would only cancel her registration if she paid $700. Shortly after, one of the reference contacts she had provided received a call from the company. Two people, Jennifer Alvarado and Jesus Castillo, confronted this contact separately in two separate calls. When he tried to verify whether the company was legally registered, both reacted violently, with shouts and intimidation, trying to avoid any type of investigation.

The problem did not end there. Despite the cancellation and the advice not to proceed, Gregoria did not pay what was demanded thanks to one of the references she included. However, the threat of her credit history being damaged persisted, and the pressure was incessant.

This case highlights a larger problem. Many unscrupulous companies operate under the shadow of the law, using pressure tactics and deceptive contracts to trap vulnerable immigrants. The desperation of those seeking better opportunities makes them easy prey for these frauds. Threatening them with credit reports or legal action is just one of the strategies to force them to pay for services that, in many cases, can be obtained for free through community or government programs.

Authorities cannot continue to ignore these abuses. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and consumer protection agencies must take stronger measures to investigate and sanction these fraudulent companies. In addition, consulates of countries of origin must play a more active role in educating immigrants about their rights and in reporting these frauds.

To those who have been victims of these frauds, I say: do not remain silent. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) offers a platform to report these crimes at reportfraud.ftc.gov. There are also local organizations that can provide legal advice and support.

The dream of a better life should not be turned into a nightmare by scammers. As a community, we must protect the most vulnerable and demand that our authorities act firmly. We cannot allow the exploitation of immigrants to continue to occur with impunity. Justice should not be a privilege, but a right for all.

If any of you, readers of El Reportero, have found yourself in a similar situation with this or any other fake company, please contact this media at Lreportero@aol.com.

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President Trump wants to cut the Pentagon budget in half. How?  

The President advances a three-pronged strategy for national security: 1. Negotiate a peace deal for Ukraine. 2. Negotiate nuclear arms drawdown with China and Russia. 3. Cut military spending by 50 percent

Dennis Kucinich and Elizabeth 

Feb.17, 2025 – It is Presidents’ Day, and President Donald Trump has made a bold statement regarding military spending—one that no other president in modern history has made. He claims he could cut the Pentagon budget by about 50 percent.

President Trump has suggested a major cut in defense spending, proposing that the United States, Russia, and China each reduce their military budgets by 50 percent. He has also expressed a desire to begin denuclearization and arms control discussions with both Russia and China to accomplish this objective.

Military contractors poured $4,440,605 into Kamala Harris’s campaign—more than double what they contributed to Donald Trump. Yet, even with the support of establishment figures like Dick Cheney, their favored candidate fell short. The defeat of the military contractor’s candidate may have consequences for the industry.

Now, with President Trump in office and a bold initiative to cut Pentagon spending by 50 percent, the defense industry faces a challenge unlike any before.

The financial markets are already responding: Major U.S. defense firms are experiencing notable stock declines, while European defense companies surge in anticipation of increased regional military spending. Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, and Northrop Grumman have all seen stocks fall, while companies such as Rheinmetall, BAE Systems, and Saab are benefiting from investors expecting a shift in global defense priorities.

Last week, we examined the staggering costs of U.S. military spending in ‘The Cost of Freedom: Confronting Military Waste.’ This week, we take the conversation further by analyzing President Trump’s claim that he could cut Pentagon spending in half—what that actually looks like, and which interests may be affected.

As President Trump pursues negotiations to bring peace to Ukraine, European governments appear to be moving in the opposite direction, increasing military budgets and deepening their involvement in the conflict. European defense firms are thriving as they anticipate further arms sales to governments committed to escalating military engagement rather than seeking diplomatic solutions.

This contrast underscores the significance of Trump’s initiative—challenging the entrenched military-industrial complex, wherever it is located, and seeking to end perpetual warfare.

The era of unchecked military expansion may be coming to an end, and for the first time in decades, the ability of the defense industry to influence U.S. military policy is being curtailed.

Will it happen? We don’t know, but President Trump’s bold proposal to cut Pentagon spending reflects his signature negotiation style—starting with an aggressive position to shift the conversation and force a change in conditions, in this case – – scrutiny of military waste.

Rather than a rigid policy demand, Trump’s talk of a 50 percent cut in military spending challenges the entrenched interests of the military-industrial complex, putting pressure on defense contractors to reduce costs, compelling Congress to justify every dollar spent.

Peace, diplomacy and international agreements between military superpowers are now squarely on the priority policy table for the first time in decades and are being understood as pragmatic. Such strategic diplomacy can open the door for arms reduction talks with other global superpowers.

By challenging the status quo, Trump is causing security and economic prosperity to be merged. Trump is causing a rethink of national priorities, that America’s strength is built on both security and economic prosperity, and that unlimited military spending threatens both.

It is a longstanding Congressional practice of bloating the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act) with unnecessary programs and hyperinflated spending. In all other authorization packages, things must be reduced and streamlined.

In the “defense” bill, they are always padded out and multiple zeros added to appropriations requests by habit. Very few lawmakers have the courage to vote against a “defense” bill despite knowing its excesses, and media will spin on the attack if they do.

Dennis was always 100 percent for national defense through fiscal integrity, against unnecessary war and profiteering, and so when in Congress he voted 100 percent of the time against the wasteful spending!

Throughout our careers, we have championed the principle of “Strength Through Peace.” This philosophy is rooted in the belief that true national security is not achieved through ever-expanding military budgets, but through diplomacy, cooperation, and a commitment to resolving conflicts without war.

We have carried this message forward, advocating that real strength is found in preventing war, not waging it. For decades, we have worked to place peace at the center of national policy—not as an idealistic dream, but as the most pragmatic and sustainable path forward.

It is a new day when a President questions military waste and opens the door for de-escalation of global conflict. However, notwithstanding the President’s ambition for sharp reductions in military spending, the current budget is a golden trough for contractors. Let’s take a look.

Breaking Down the Pentagon’s Nearly $1 Trillion Budget

The Pentagon’s budget is a massive and complex expenditure. Here’s a rough estimate of where the money goes:

  • 25 percent goes toward soldiers’ pay and benefits.
  • 25 percent is allocated for base operations, including training.
  • More than 40 percent is funneled to Pentagon contractors for weapons systems, research and development (R&D), logistical support, base operations, technology, and private security.
  • Additional funds go toward military construction and nuclear weapons programs.

Top Defense Contractors & Their 2023 Revenue

According to USAspending.gov and Defense News, the largest defense contractors in 2023 included:

  • Lockheed Martin Corp. – $60.8 billion
  • RTX (Raytheon) – $40.7 billion
  • Northrop Grumman Corp. – $35.0 billion
  • Boeing Company – $30.8 billion
  • General Dynamics Corp. – $30.4 billion
  • L3Harris Technologies – $13.9 billion
  • BAE Systems – $13.6 billion

These companies receive billions annually in government contracts, making them deeply invested in maintaining high levels of military spending.

Military Contractors’ Political Contributions (2023-2024)

According to OpenSecrets, the top defense contractors contributed significantly to political campaigns in the current election cycle:

  • Lockheed Martin – $4,470,698 total ($2,393,034 to Democrats, $2,021,283 to Republicans)
  • Northrop Grumman – $3,354,889 total ($1,903,884 to Democrats, $1,385,924 to Republicans)
  • RTX Corp (Raytheon) – $2,805,535 total ($1,472,920 to Democrats, $1,258,511 to Republicans)
  • General Atomics – $2,507,912 total ($595,947 to Democrats, $1,660,970 to Republicans)
  • L3Harris Technologies – $2,475,712 total ($1,126,096 to Democrats, $1,331,975 to Republicans)

In the presidential race, defense contractors have donated:

  • Kamala Harris – $4,440,605
  • Donald Trump – $1,787,259

In total, the defense sector has contributed over $41.4 million in the 2023-2024 election cycle. For every $1 contributed to political campaigns, these companies receive $10,000 in government contracts—a return on investment most businesses could only dream of.

Trump’s Negotiation Strategy: What Is He Really Aiming For?

President Trump stated intention to cut military spending by 50 percent reflects his signature negotiation style—starting with an aggressive position, shift the conversation and force long-overdue scrutiny of a neglected policy and spending – — in this case, military waste.

Defense contractors will be under pressure to reduce costs. Congress will be forced to ever more careful review of defense appropriations. Just the mere mention of a shift in spending by the President galvanizes budget hawks to search for waste, fraud and abuse in Pentagon contracting.

Is War a Racket?

As Marine Corps General Smedley Butler once famously said, “War is a racket.” If so, how do we end that racket? Here are six possible reforms:

  1. Ban political contributions from federal contractors – No company receiving taxpayer-funded contracts should be allowed to donate to political campaigns.
  2. Prohibit companies that overcharge the government from receiving contracts – Firms with histories of price gouging should be disqualified from future defense spending.
  3. Restrict Pentagon officials from working for defense contractors – A five-year cooling-off period should be implemented for former officials joining military contractors.
  4. Ban members of Congress from lobbying for defense contractors – Prevent lawmakers from cashing in by lobbying for the companies they previously regulated.
  5. Establish public financing for all federal campaigns – This would reduce corporate influence in government decisions.
  6. Pass a Constitutional Amendment to repeal Citizens United and Buckley v. Valeo – Overturning these Supreme Court decisions would reduce corporate and special interest control over elections.

Trump’s Approach: A New Era?

Despite his rhetoric, President Trump is not calling for the disestablishment of America’s defense. Instead, he proposes a new strategy: engaging China and Russia in parallel arms reductions while scaling back America’s nuclear arsenal. This approach could set the stage for fresh arms reduction treaties and a shift away from perpetual military expansion.

For the first time, there is a sitting president who is starting to walk this path. If he follows through, this could mark the most significant shift in American military policy in decades.

If the ultimate goal is to restore peace and fiscal responsibility in America, then the President challenging the military-industrial complex may be the most important fight of all and is deserving of our support.

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CIA reportedly expanding covert drone surveillance in Mexico

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by the El Reportero staff

The U.S. government is reportedly utilizing a secret drone program to track and identify fentanyl laboratories in Mexico as part of its ongoing efforts to curb the influx of illicit drugs into the United States, according to The New York Times.

Sources indicate that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has been conducting covert drone flights to pinpoint fentanyl production sites, subsequently relaying the intelligence to Mexican authorities. Officials speaking to the Times on condition of anonymity revealed that this classified program initially began during the Biden administration but has expanded significantly under President Donald Trump, who has pledged to crack down on drug cartels with increased aggression.

According to a senior U.S. military official, Northern Command has carried out more than two dozen surveillance flights over the U.S.-Mexico border using a variety of aircraft, including RC-125 Rivet Joints, U-2s, P-8s, and drones. Despite the increased intelligence-gathering operations, the administration has reportedly not authorized the use of drones for lethal strikes, instead relying on them solely to support Mexican law enforcement efforts in dismantling drug operations.

CIA drones have reportedly proven effective at locating fentanyl labs, as the chemicals emitted during drug production can be easily detected from the air. The agency has declined to comment on the matter. The escalation in drone activity aligns with President Trump’s broader strategy to disrupt drug trafficking networks and pressure the Mexican government into taking a more proactive role in combating organized crime.

One of Trump’s first executive orders after returning to office was to designate drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), a move that grants U.S. authorities expanded legal tools to target cartel operations. This designation enables the U.S. to freeze financial assets, restrict entry into the country, and prosecute cartel affiliates under terrorism laws.

In line with these efforts, Northern Command announced in early February the formation of a specialized intelligence task force comprising 140 analysts stationed along the southern border. These analysts are tasked with processing surveillance data and assisting the U.S. Border Patrol with counter-network analysis, Spanish-language translation, and full-motion video analysis.

Facing the threat of sweeping 25 percent tariffs on Mexican exports imposed by Trump, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Feb. 3 the deployment of 10,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. Their primary mission includes halting the flow of illicit drugs, with a particular emphasis on fentanyl, as well as addressing illegal immigration.

Sheinbaum’s decision comes amid a worsening fentanyl crisis in the U.S., where over 21,000 pounds of the drug were seized at the southern border during Biden’s final year in office, according to Customs and Border Protection data. The Drug Enforcement Administration warns that a single kilogram of fentanyl can be lethal to as many as half a million people.

Mexican authorities have also ramped up their enforcement efforts. Over the weekend, law enforcement agencies seized approximately 440 pounds of methamphetamine—worth an estimated $40 million—in a region controlled by the Sinaloa Cartel. Since the deployment of Mexico’s National Guard on Feb. 5, authorities have confiscated nearly five tons of methamphetamine, 453 kilograms of cocaine, and 55 kilograms of fentanyl.

With reports by Truth Press.

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California homeowners will have to fund half of high-risk insurer’s $1 billion ‘bailou

Los restos de una casa en llamas en un vecindario de Altadena afectado por el incendio de Eaton el 8 de enero de 2025. La aseguradora de último recurso de California enfrenta pérdidas de mil millones de dólares por los incendios forestales del sur de California. -- The remains of a burning home in an Altadena neighborhood affected by the Eaton Fire on January 8, 2025. California’s insurer of last resort faces $1 billion in losses from the Southern California wildfires. Photo by Jules Hotz for CalMatters

by Levi Sumagaysay

The FAIR Plan assessment is the latest insurance fallout from the LA fires. State Farm, California’s largest property insurance provider, recently asked for permission to temporarily raise its premiums an average of 22 percent because of the claims it is facing from the fires. The insurance department is still considering that request.

The FAIR Plan’s president, Victoria Roach, had been warning about its ability to pay claims in case of catastrophe, telling a state Assembly committee last year that the plan “one event away from a large assessment.”

As of Feb. 9, the plan had paid more than $900 million in claims, the commissioner’s order said. “A $1 billion assessment puts the FAIR Plan at an estimated cash position of just under $400 million by July 2025, as the 2025 wildfire season is just beginning,” Roach told the insurance department in the plan’s request for the assessment.

Insurance companies will need to submit filings with the insurance department before they can collect the one-time fees from their customers, said Michael Soller, department spokesperson.

It is unclear on what percentage of policyholders’ premiums the fees will be based.

“The FAIR Plan does not have a role in determining how insurers manage costs associated once an assessment is approved,” the plan said in a press release.

Under new regulations that took effect this year as part of Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara’s effort to address the growing difficulty of finding property insurance in California, insurance customers will now have to shoulder 50 percent of any assessment through a temporary fee added to their premiums. Before the new rules went into effect, the plan would have gotten all the additional funds directly from its member companies, which would have then tried to recoup that money by raising premiums.

The insurance industry supports the change. “This is essential to prevent even greater strain on California’s already unbalanced insurance market and avoiding widespread policy cancellations that would jeopardize coverage for millions of Californians,” said Mark Sektnan, vice president for state government relations for the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, in a written statement.

But Consumer Watchdog, a consumer advocacy group, is considering suing over the fact that consumers are now on the hook for the additional funding for the FAIR Plan, which its executive director calls a “bailout.”

“We’ll be exploring every legal option to protect (consumers) from those surcharges,” Carmen Balber told CalMatters.

Balber added that some insurers, such as Mercury General Corp., said shortly after the L.A. fires began in early January that they expected to have adequate reinsurance to cover any possible increased contributions they would have to make to the FAIR Plan. In that case, “are they going to let insurers double dip and charge consumers (anyway)?” Balber asked.

The insurance department said the last time the state approved additional funds for the FAIR Plan was in 1993, after the Kinneloa Fire in Altadena and the Old Topanga Fire in Malibu and Topanga. Some of those areas were also affected by the fires this year. The additional funds approved then are equivalent to $563 million today, the department said.

In a statement, Lara characterized the new regulation as a “necessary consumer protection action.” The commissioner added: “The fact that we are once again facing this issue 30 years after wildfires devastated these same communities highlights the need for change.”

For the record: An earlier version of this story misstated how the FAIR Plan assessment will be charged to consumers. It will be passed along by insurance companies, not charged by the FAIR Plan.

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Munguía vs. Surace 2: Will history repeat itself? Riyadh, May 3rd

Jaime Munguía vs Bruno Surace.

by Marvin Ramírez

Super middleweight contender Jaime Munguía (44-2, 35 KOs) is set to step back into the ring for a highly anticipated 12-round rematch against Bruno Surace (26-0-2, 5 KOs) on May 3rd in Riyadh. This bout will serve as the co-feature on the undercard of the undisputed championship fight between Canelo Álvarez and William Scull.

Munguía, 28, enters the fight eager to avenge his stunning sixth-round knockout loss to Surace on December 14th of last year in his hometown of Tijuana, Mexico. That defeat came as a shock to many, as Munguía was the overwhelming favorite and even sent Surace to the canvas in the second round before succumbing to a decisive knockout.

The rematch was officially confirmed today after speculation had been swirling for weeks. Boxing journalist Salvador Rodríguez initially broke the news, hinting at Munguía’s intent to redeem himself. Given his status as a former WBO junior middleweight champion, Munguía has every reason to attempt to reverse his fortunes, though the challenge ahead is steep.

Choosing to face Surace again is a bold move by Munguía, but one fraught with risk. Stylistically, the two fighters appear to be at opposite ends of the spectrum. Surace, 26, boasts exceptional hand speed and pinpoint accuracy, qualities that proved too much for the often-defensively-lax Munguía in their first encounter. If Munguía’s defense hasn’t improved significantly, the outcome may mirror their initial meeting—or end even more decisively in Surace’s favor.

A victory for Munguía would open the door to lucrative opportunities, possibly paving the way for high-profile fights against Edgar Berlanga and, perhaps, a rematch with Canelo Álvarez—though there is little public demand for the latter. But before he can dream of those matchups, he must first overcome a fighter who appears to have his number.

In hindsight, signs of danger were evident before their first meeting. Surace’s explosive stoppage of Jhon Jader Obregon had showcased his ability to generate power at the right moment, yet Munguía’s camp seemed to overlook this evolution in his opponent’s skillset. Instead of recognizing the threats posed by Surace’s sharp counterpunching, Munguía’s team appeared to underestimate him, a mistake they cannot afford to repeat.

Now, the question remains: has Munguía learned from his errors, or will history repeat itself? If he fails to make the necessary adjustments, May 3rd could spell another humbling night for the Mexican star—and another triumphant moment for the rising Surace.-

With reports by Boxing News.

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Migraine: A silent epidemic affecting millions

by Marvin Ramírez

Migraine is a neurological disorder that affects more than a billion people worldwide. It is characterized by recurrent and disabling headaches, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Its impact on daily life is significant, interfering with work, personal relationships, and general well-being. Due to its high prevalence, experts consider it a silent epidemic.

While its exact causes are not fully understood, it is believed to be the product of genetic and environmental factors. “More than half of people with migraine have close relatives who also suffer from it,” say specialists from Merck Manuals, which reinforces its hereditary component.

Triggers and their impact

The main triggers include hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, and certain sensory stimuli. “Fluctuations in estrogen levels can trigger episodes in many women,” explains the Mayo Clinic. This makes them more prone to migraines than men, especially during childbearing years.

Stress and anxiety also play a role. “The body responds to stress by releasing hormones that can alter blood flow to the brain, causing an attack,” say neurology experts.

As for diet, some foods and drinks are linked to the onset of migraines. “Chocolate, red wine, aged and processed cheeses can act as triggers,” warns MedlinePlus. Foods rich in histamine, such as sausages and certain fish, can also be harmful to sensitive people.

Treatment and relief options

Treatment varies from person to person. In medication, triptans are the most commonly used. “Sumatriptan and rizatriptan block pain pathways in the brain and relieve symptoms,” explains the Mayo Clinic. However, they can have side effects and their use should be supervised by a doctor.

In addition to medication, there are alternative therapies. One effective option is acupressure. “Applying pressure to the base of the skull or between the thumb and index finger can reduce the intensity of the pain,” MedlinePlus recommends.

Using hot or cold compresses is also helpful. “Cold compresses numb the area, while hot compresses relax tense muscles,” adds the Mayo Clinic. Wearing tight bands around the head to reduce the feeling of pressure has also become popular.

Therapeutic massages help release tension and improve blood circulation. “Massage in the cervical area can decrease the frequency of episodes,” say physical therapy experts. Chiropractic has also been shown to be helpful in correcting misalignments in the spine. “By improving the balance of the nervous system, the severity of migraines can be reduced,” explains the American Chiropractic Association.

The Importance of Prevention

Prevention is key to reducing migraine frequency. Maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding prolonged fasting helps stabilize blood sugar levels. “Not letting more than three hours pass between meals can prevent migraine episodes,” suggests Alimmenta.

Hydration is also essential, as dehydration can be a triggering factor. Getting a good night’s sleep is another crucial aspect. “Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding screens before bed can significantly reduce episodes,” say neurology specialists.

Comprehensive approach to migraine management

Experts agree that migraine should be addressed with a comprehensive approach. Yoga and meditation help reduce stress and improve the body’s response to triggers. “Meditation relaxes the nervous system and can reduce the intensity of episodes,” notes a Harvard Medical School study.

Moderate exercise can also be beneficial. “Activities such as walking or swimming improve circulation and reduce stress without causing attacks,” health specialists explain.

Although migraine has no definitive cure, there are multiple strategies to control it and improve quality of life. From dietary changes and stress reduction to manual and pharmacological therapies, each patient can find a personalized approach to cope with this debilitating condition.

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Choral books from the National Library of Mexico: treasures of New Spain music

The choral books from the National Library are one of the greatest treasures of this bibliographic collection. With centuries of history, these musical texts have now been deciphered, which has allowed the music that was played in the temples and convents of New Spain to be recreated

by México Desconocido

The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) is in charge of the custody of the choral books of the National Library. This facility is the most important bibliographic collection in our country. Of all the treasures it guards, these volumes of sacred music are among the most valuable, due to their history and antiquity. Therefore, it has been very relevant that a specialized group has carried out an authentic work of deciphering and sound reinterpretation of these books. They have managed to faithfully recreate the music that resonated in temples and convents of what was once New Spain.

The Ernesto de la Torre Villar Room (“Mexican Room”) of the National Library

The National Library of Mexico is an integral part of the UNAM. Located within the University Cultural Center (CCU), in the capital of the Republic, the highest house of studies is in charge of safeguarding and managing the most important bibliographic collection in the country. Among the different collections found in this very important facility, there is the Ernesto de la Torre Villar Room, colloquially known as the “Mexican Room”, where the choral books are found.

In this space, around 2,500 copies are kept, which belong to the Old Collection. Most of them were printed in New Spain, between the years 1554 and 1821. The room was designed by the architect Orso Núñez and was inaugurated in 1993, within the Annex Building of the National Library.

The function of the space is primarily to protect New Spain books. The room can be visited free of charge through guided tours. On these tours, in addition to seeing the “Mexican Room” first-hand, you can also see some of the ancient books kept in the premises.

The choral books of the National Library

There are fifteen viceregal choral books and they are kept in the “Mexican Room.” They were made in the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries in New Spain and in Seville, Spain. They are truly enormous volumes, since each of their sides measures almost a meter, with weights that range from 20 to 40 kilos. Their pages are made of parchment, with religious illustrations in color that sparkle metallically in the light. The capital letters that began the texts are covered with beautiful flourishes.

These choral books were created in convents and monasteries. In these religious enclosures there were rooms called scriptorium. There, several friars or monks who were specialists in music, calligraphy, bookbinding and illustration, handcrafted the aforementioned volumes. For this reason, they are authentic works of art.

The resurrection of New Spain choral music

The Institute of Bibliographic Research (IIB) of the UNAM and the Melos Gloriae choir were in charge of the meticulous project of reading and interpreting the ways of writing music in that remote era. Thanks to this, it was possible to recreate the sacred sounds of the New Spain convents and temples, captured in the choral books of the National Library.

The director of the choir, Ariadna Cisneros, and the researcher of the IIB, Silvia Salgado Ruelas, were responsible for directing the project. The specialists have commented that unlike our time, these musical books did not have a time signature, nor the treble or bass clef, nor half, quarter or whole notes. What they contained was a score with tetragrams (instead of staves), with large squares representing sounds. To interpret these compositions, musicians and specialists had to study and decipher knowledge from the past.

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