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A new California law requires tortillas to include an extra ingredient. Here’s why

Montones de paquetes de tortillas en un supermercado en Fresno el 9 de abril de 2024. Stacks of tortilla packages at a supermarket in Fresno on April 9, 2024. Photo by Larry Valenzuela, CalMatters/CatchLight Local.

by Ana B. Ibarra

Tortillas sold in California are going to have a new ingredient, one that’s intended to help nurture healthy infants. Starting Jan. 1, a new law will take effect requiring most tortillas and corn masa products sold in the state to contain folic acid, a vitamin that’s important to infant health.

Latinas in California are far less likely than other women to get enough folic acid early in pregnancy — a gap that can lead to life-altering birth defects.  State data show that, between 2017 and 2019 – the latest years for which state data is available – about 28 percent of Latinas reported taking folic acid the month before becoming pregnant. White women took the vitamin at a higher rate, with 46 percent of them reporting consuming folic acid,  according to the California Department of Public Health.

This puts Latinas at higher risk of having a baby born with neural tube defects — defects of the brain and spinal cord. Some examples of that are conditions like spina bifida and anencephaly.

Research has shown that folic acid can reduce birth defects by up to 70 percent. That’s why it’s found in prenatal vitamins. But because women may not find out they are pregnant until weeks or months after, public health has long recommended that folic acid also be added to staple foods.

In 1998, the U.S. required manufacturers to fortify certain grain products with folic acid, such as pasta, rice, and cereals, to help women of reproductive age get the necessary amounts. Since that rule took effect, the rate of babies born with neural tube defects dropped by about a third, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
But even with the addition to these foods, birth defect rates among babies born to Latinas have been consistently higher. In search of a more culturally appropriate addition, in 2016, the federal government allowed makers of corn masa to add folic acid to their foods – but didn’t require it. Joaquin Arambula, a Democrat from Fresno, who authored the law said leaving folic acid out of corn masa products, used in many Latino staple foods, was a “real oversight.”  Now, with the implementation of Assembly Bill 1830, California is the first state to require folic acid in corn masa products. The law requires manufacturers that do business in the state to add 0.7 milligrams of folic acid to every pound of flour and to list the addition in their nutrition labels. The law makes exemptions for small batch producers like restaurants and markets that might make their own tortillas from scratch. Months after California’s law was signed, Alabama passed its own version. Its law goes into effect in June 2026.

Some large manufacturers have already been adding folic acid to their products for years. Gruma, the parent company of Mission Foods, said it started fortifying its foods back in 2016, when the federal government first allowed it. A company spokesperson said Gruma “has a longstanding commitment to supporting legislative fortification initiatives” and supports the new laws in California and Alabama.

Supported by the California Health Care Foundation (CHCF), which works to ensure that people have access to the care they need, when they need it, at a price they can afford. Visit www.chcf.org to learn more.
In other California laws:

Get up to speed fast on the new California laws that might change your life in 2026 New California laws taking effect on Jan. 1, 2026 expand coverage for in vitro fertilization, regulate artificial intelligence, protect renters and more Most of the hundreds of new California laws that are set to take effect on the first day of the new year won’t change your life. They’re adjustments to existing laws and directions to state agencies to follow up on past priorities. But some of them might have a profound effect on you or a loved one.
Know someone who’s struggling to conceive? One new law requires more insurers to cover in vitro fertilization.  How about someone who’s thinking about what to do after high school? Another new law compels more California State University campuses to offer automatic admission to seniors who meet their requirements. Some new California laws are meant to confront some of the major questions of the moment, including how to regulate artificial intelligence and whether the state’s Democratic leaders can contest the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement.

In all, lawmakers passed 917 bills in 2025 and Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed 123 of them. Most of the ones he signed take effect on Jan. 1. CalMatters reporters describe some of the noteworthy new laws in the stories listed below. We’ll update this list as we publish more stories over the next few days.

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How different cooking methods and added ingredients transform potatoes, a nutritional staple

by Willow Tohi

  • Potatoes are naturally nutritious, but their health impact is determined almost entirely by cooking method and added ingredients.
  • Boiling and steaming are the healthiest methods, preserving nutrients without adding excess fat.
  • Deep-frying, pan-frying in unstable oils and methods that submerge potatoes in fat (like confit) are the least healthy, introducing harmful compounds.
  • Popular preparations like chips, hash browns and dauphinoise potatoes are high in calories, unhealthy fats and salt, making them occasional treats.
  • To boost health benefits, keep skins on, use unsaturated oils sparingly and flavor with herbs and spices instead of salt, butter and cream.

For centuries, the potato has been a dietary cornerstone, yet it remains trapped in a nutritional paradox. Britons consume over two million tonnes annually, enjoying them fried, baked, mashed and roasted. However, experts now clarify that the potato itself is not the villain of the dinner plate; instead, its health value is dramatically reshaped in the kitchen. The consensus from nutritionists is clear: the cooking method and accompanying ingredients determine whether this versatile tuber is a healthful foundation or a vehicle for excess fat, salt and harmful compounds.

From nutrient powerhouse to calorie bomb

At its core, the potato is a “naturally nutritious” food, low in fat and a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin B6. A medium baked potato with its skin provides more potassium than a banana. The healthiest preparations are those that preserve these innate qualities without introducing detrimental elements. Boiling, steaming and microwaving top the list, as they require little to no added fat. Conversely, methods that involve submerging potatoes in fat—such as deep-frying for chips or the French confit technique—transform them into calorie-dense items with diminished nutritional returns. These processes can create harmful trans-fats and acrylamides, compounds linked to inflammation and chronic disease.

The topping trap and the oil equation

For conventional diets, even cooking methods can be undermined at the serving stage. A baked potato is a nutrient-dense choice, but piling on butter, full-fat cheese and sour cream quickly escalates its saturated fat and calorie count. Nutritionists recommend healthier swaps like Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil. The type of fat used in cooking is equally critical. While roasting or air-frying can be reasonable options, using oils with low smoke points or saturated fats like goose fat at high temperatures can degrade the oil’s quality and generate unhealthy byproducts. Experts advocate using unsaturated oils like olive or rapeseed oil sparingly, and techniques like parboiling before roasting to achieve crispiness with less oil absorption.

Processed forms and the hyper-palatable problem

The least healthy ways to eat potatoes are often the most convenient and craveable. Shop-bought hash browns, frozen chips and especially potato chips are frequently deep-fried, high in refined oils and heavily salted. Beyond their poor nutritional profile, these hyper-palatable, processed forms are engineered to override the body’s natural satiety signals, making overconsumption easy. While homemade versions baked or air-fried with minimal oil offer a slightly better alternative, they remain foods best enjoyed occasionally. Elaborate, restaurant-style preparations like dauphinoise or thousand-layer potatoes, which involve copious cream, cheese and fat, fall into the same indulgent category.

A return to simple foundations

The historical journey of the potato, from a New World staple to a sometimes-maligned carbohydrate, reflects our evolving—and often contradictory—relationship with food. The modern lesson is a return to simplicity. By choosing cooking methods that highlight the potato’s natural assets and being mindful of additions, this humble vegetable can securely reclaim its place as a wholesome component of a balanced diet. The key is recognizing that the potato is a blank canvas; its ultimate health impact is painted by the choices made in its preparation.

 

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SalsaCrazy mondays brings dancing to Clement Street

by Alex Silva
With contributions from Magdy Zara

SalsaCrazy offers a welcoming space for those who want to learn salsa and enjoy a night of dancing every Monday.
This weekly event combines dance classes with an open dance floor, featuring salsa and bachata music. No partner or prior experience is needed, so it’s open to everyone.
Known for being a long-standing part of the Bay Area dance community, SalsaCrazy Mondays fosters movement, connection, and confidence on the dance floor in a relaxed atmosphere.
This public event is held every Monday; the next one will take place on January 12th in San Francisco, at 406 Clement Street, at the Neck of the Woods nightclub. The event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. For any questions: https://golatindance.com/event/salsacrazy-mondays-salsa-classes-and-dance-lessons-salsa-bachata-dancing/2026-01-12/

Game Night at Tacolicious: Valencia
This lottery game night event brings together exquisite food, games, and community, with a unique twist on the traditional Mexican game.
Attendees are offered the chance to win small prizes throughout the evening.
This entertaining night takes place on the first and third Thursday of each month, which is January 1st and 15th.
The invitation is open to families at the Tacolicious restaurant in San Francisco, located at 741 Valencia Street, starting at 6 p.m. For more information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/game-night-at-tacolicious-valencia-tickets-1645436678399?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Mission Gráfica: The Voice of the Public at KALW
Mission Gráfica is organizing an art exhibition titled “The Voice of the Public.” Through the Latino Art Center, which highlights art history with posters from the Bay Area, the exhibition shows how artists have addressed social issues.
The exhibition features posters about civil rights, housing, and community. These themes demonstrate how art has been used to express ideas and support causes.
The exhibition will be open until January 30th in San Francisco, at the KALW event complex, located at 220 Montgomery Street, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information: https://downtownsf.org/do/mission-grafica-the-publics-voice-exhibition

Rose B. Simpson presents her exhibition Lexicon
The Indigenous mixed-media artist Rose B. Simpson, from Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico, will present “Lexicon,” an exhibition that combines cultural ceramics and classic cars.
Featuring vintage vehicles: a 1985 Chevy El Camino and a 1964 Buick Riviera, representing a collection of modes of transportation with designs inspired by Pueblo traditions. These vehicles are treated as objects rather than functional machines.
Together, the exhibition reflects how Indigenous art has evolved within contemporary public spaces.
This exhibition is open to the public from Aug. 2025 to Aug. 2, 2026, at the de Young Museum in Wilsey Court, located in Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive in San Francisco, Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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How Nicolás Maduro’s capture unfolded

by El Reportero staff

At 10:46 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday night, a short message from Donald Trump set one of the most dramatic military operations in recent U.S.–Latin American history into motion: “Good luck and godspeed.” Within hours, that order launched a massive, tightly coordinated raid that ended with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in U.S. custody, blindfolded aboard an American warship, and Venezuela’s political future thrown into deep uncertainty.

According to public statements from Trump and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine, as well as interviews with officials familiar with the planning, the operation had been months in the making. Roughly 150 aircraft were mobilized from more than 20 land- and sea-based locations, while U.S. special forces rehearsed on a full-scale replica of Maduro’s heavily fortified residence. Behind the scenes, the CIA built an extensive intelligence picture of Maduro’s movements, habits, and security protocols.

The night of the operation

Just after midnight, helicopters carrying an extraction team of U.S. special forces and FBI agents flew barely 100 feet above the Caribbean Sea. Overhead, fighter jets, bombers, and drones provided cover, neutralizing air defense systems as the aircraft approached Maduro’s compound. Power to the area was cut, plunging the site into darkness.

As the helicopters entered the target zone, they came under fire. One aircraft was struck but remained operational. At 1:01 a.m., U.S. forces touched down. The team advanced using real-time intelligence feeds from assets on the ground and in the air, closing in on the compound where Maduro was believed to be sheltering.

From Mar-a-Lago, Trump monitored the raid via live video alongside Caine, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Trump later said the extraction team faced heavy gunfire but successfully breached resistance and entered the compound.

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, attempted to flee to a steel-reinforced safe room. The team had trained extensively for that scenario, even preparing to cut through reinforced doors if necessary. In the end, force was not required. Both were apprehended before reaching the safe room.

Extraction and aftermath

With Maduro secured, the focus shifted to withdrawal. Additional helicopters arrived as fighter jets and drones provided suppressive fire. Caine described multiple self-defense engagements during the pullout. No U.S. personnel were killed, though Trump acknowledged several were wounded. Venezuelan casualties have not been confirmed.

By 3:29 a.m., the force had cleared Venezuelan airspace over open water. Less than an hour later, at 4:21 a.m., Trump announced the operation’s success on social media. The White House subsequently released an image of Maduro blindfolded aboard the USS Iwo Jima.

Months of preparation

Officials say the groundwork began as early as August, when a small CIA team intensified surveillance of Maduro’s routines. “We knew where he lived, where he traveled, what he ate, even his pets,” Caine said, underscoring the depth of intelligence collected.

Special forces simultaneously trained on a detailed mock-up of Maduro’s residence, complete with steel doors and reinforced rooms. The mission was nearly launched earlier in the week but postponed due to weather conditions.

For much of that period, Trump advisers maintained that the preferred outcome was a voluntary exit by Maduro. Trump himself said he spoke with Maduro multiple times, urging him to surrender. Negotiations stalled when Maduro refused to leave the country, prompting Trump to authorize the operation.

How tensions escalated

The road to Friday’s raid traces back nearly a year. Even before returning to office, Trump signaled that Maduro’s removal was a priority. Pressure escalated through economic and military measures: expanded bounties tied to drug trafficking आरोप, increased naval deployments near Venezuela, seizures of oil shipments, and a renewed embargo.

Rubio’s long-standing opposition to the Venezuelan government and its alliance with Cuba helped shape the administration’s stance. Another key influence was Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, who pushed for a stronger U.S. military presence in the Caribbean. In the weeks before the operation, senior officials held near-daily discussions refining both military and intelligence planning.

What comes next

While the military execution was precise, political planning remains less clear. Trump said the United States would temporarily oversee Venezuela’s transition, though details remain undefined. Attention has turned to Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who spoke with Rubio shortly after the raid but later publicly declared Maduro the legitimate president and rejected foreign control.

U.S. forces will remain on heightened alert, officials said, as Washington weighs next steps. The embargo will stay in place, maritime interdictions will continue, and consultations with oil executives are planned to assess Venezuela’s production capacity.

As for Maduro, U.S. officials say he will be transferred to stand trial in the United States, where, in Trump’s words, he will “face American justice.” – With reports by The Frank.

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Bradley says Dalton Smith has never faced a fighter like Matias

by the El Reportero’s staff

Saturday’s junior welterweight title fight at Barclays Center represents unfamiliar territory for Dalton Smith, at least in the eyes of former two-division champion Tim Bradley. Assessing the matchup this week, Bradley suggested the undefeated Brit is stepping into a level of competition he has yet to encounter as a professional.

Bradley believes Subriel Matias brings a combination of volume, pace, and physical pressure that distinguishes him from the opposition Smith has previously faced. In Bradley’s assessment, Matias stands as the first elite contender Smith will meet at 140 pounds, making the bout a defining test rather than a routine title opportunity.

Smith’s career has been guided largely through domestic and European matchups under the Matchroom banner, a developmental route common among UK-based fighters. Bradley acknowledged the logic behind that progression but argued it has shielded Smith from the sustained intensity often produced by fighters emerging from the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

That contrast, Bradley noted, becomes critical against a pressure fighter like Matias, whose style forces opponents to work continuously. According to Bradley, counter-punchers who rely on timing and economy often struggle when they are unable to slow the pace or control distance.

Matias enters the contest following a recent adverse analytical finding for Ostarine, an issue reviewed by the New York State Athletic Commission. The commission ultimately ruled that the amount detected was below the level required for disciplinary action, clearing Matias to proceed with the defense.

Bradley offered a blunt prediction regarding how the fight is likely to unfold. He dismissed the likelihood of a full twelve rounds, pointing to Matias’ history of overwhelming opponents with output until resistance fades.

“This isn’t going 12 rounds,” Bradley said, reiterating that Matias’ ability to consistently out-throw rivals has proven decisive throughout his career.

The bout marks the first defense of Matias’ second junior welterweight title reign, which began last July with a decision victory over Alberto Puello. Smith arrives unbeaten but without wins over established contenders at 140 pounds, with names such as Jamaine Ortiz, Ernesto Mercado, Keyshawn Davis, and Puello absent from his record.

Matias and Smith headline Saturday’s card in Brooklyn with the WBC junior welterweight title on the line. Tickets remain available ahead of fight night.

– With reports by Michael Collins.

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President Sheinbaum calls on US to ensure ‘fair trial’ for Maduro

by Mexico News Daily

President Sheinbaum on Tuesday called on the United States to guarantee that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro receives a fair trial in New York, while reiterating her belief that the military operation that captured him in Caracas on Jan. 3 was illegal and should never have taken place.

“What we ask for is a fair trial; that’s what we must demand, for everyone and under any circumstances, and in this particular case, there must be … justice,” she said.

Maduro, accused of drug trafficking, pleaded not guilty on Monday in his first appearance in a federal courtroom in Brooklyn, New York, and claimed he had been kidnapped at his home by U.S. military personnel.

Speaking during her daily press conference on Tuesday morning, Sheinbaum again rebuked the U.S. military operation and said Mexico is fiercely opposed to “a powerful nation forcibly removing (another country’s) president.”

“We can never agree with one country invading another, especially outside the framework of the United Nations Charter, even if he were guilty of the charges against him,” she said, adding that “it’s a matter of the sovereignty of the Venezuelan people, just as it is for Mexico or any other country in the world.”

Sheinbaum also addressed opponents of the Maduro regime.

“President Maduro’s position is very interesting (…) especially considering all the propaganda against Venezuela or those who disagree with the Maduro regime or Chavismo in Venezuela … that’s one thing; but it is very different from being in favor of an intervention,” Sheinbaum said. “That cannot be approved, regardless of one’s opinion.”

Chavismo is the left-wing populist political ideology, named after former President Hugo Chávez, which Maduro has professed since taking over for Chávez in 2013. It blends socialism, anti-imperialism and Bolivarianism to promote social welfare, state control of key industries (particularly oil) and greater Latin American integration.

Sheinbaum reiterated her belief that the U.S. will not intervene militarily in Mexico, while insisting that the U.S. “do more” to combat organized crime, especially after drugs reach groups in the U.S. that distribute, sell and launder money. She also criticized the U.S. for not seriously addressing arms trafficking and not attending to the root causes of drug use among young Americans.

With reports from Reforma, El Economista and El Financiero.

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Puerto Rico officially recognizes unborn children as ‘natural persons’

‘Legal personhood for the preborn is not only consistent with science and human dignity but is the foundation upon which a culture of life can flourish,’ a pro-life spokesperson said

by Jonathon Van Maren

On December 21, Governor Jenniffer González of Puerto Rico signed Senate Bill 504 into law, recognizing pre-born children as “natural persons” by amending Puerto Rico’s Civil Code. It states: “Every human being is a natural person, including the conceived child at any stage of gestation within the mother’s womb.”

While the law does not impact abortion laws in the American territory, abortion activists are warning that SB504 is a significant step in that direction. Senator Maria de Lourdes Santiago of the Puerto Rican Independence Party called it “another step on the path towards making the women’s right to decide illegal.”

Father Carlos Pérez Toro, pastor of Santa Rosa de Lima Church and civil lawyer graduate of Inter American University of Puerto Rico School of Law, celebrated the bill’s passage.

“It is recognized that the human being in gestation is a natural person from the first moment of conception; using a legal term that only applied when a human being was born, it is said that he or she has legal personality and capacity from the first moment of conception,” he said.

SB504 was written by Senate President Thomas Rivera Schatz of the New Progressive Party (NPP) and co-sponsored by Sens. Joanne Rodríguez Veve (Independent), Brenda Pérez (NPP-Arecibo), and Wilmer Reyes (NPP-Guayama). It grants pre-born children inheritance rights, including the ability to be named as a beneficiary or heir, and states explicitly that it does not impact a woman’s legal “right” to abort her pre-born child.

“Rather than radical, the law reflects a growing acknowledgment that legal systems cannot indefinitely avoid the scientific reality that human life begins at conception,” wrote Vianca Rodriguez. “By naming that reality directly, Puerto Rico chose honesty over ambiguity and placed the value of unborn life firmly within its legal framework, reinforcing long-standing principles of human dignity and the protection of life recognized in both Puerto Rico’s and the United States’ constitutional traditions.”

Despite that, the move to legally recognize fetal personhood has infuriated Puerto Rico’s abortion activists. According to press reports, they are “are mobilizing against a new law recognizing the unborn as a natural person, warning it could threaten abortion rights despite privacy protections.”

Alondra del Mar Hernández of Aborto Libre Puerto Rico called the law “a tool of manipulation” and “a mechanism of control” that could lead to the criminalization of abortion; Patricia Otón of the same group compared it to similar laws “particularly in the South, where abortion laws are most restrictive.”

Carol Tobias of National Right to Life, on the other hand, called SB504 a “landmark achievement for the pro‑life movement”:

Puerto Rico’s clear and courageous recognition of preborn babies as persons reflects a deep respect for life and provides a powerful example for lawmakers throughout the United States. Legal personhood for the preborn is not only consistent with science and human dignity but is the foundation upon which a culture of life can flourish.

Kelsey Pritchard of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America concurred, calling the law “a historic victory for babies and moms across the island and a powerful example for lawmakers throughout the United States.”

“Thank God we have achieved clear recognition in Puerto Rico that the human being in gestation is a natural person with all rights, as if he or she had been born,” Father Carlos Pérez Toro said. “Imagine what that means for the mother who now has a new instrument to defend her child.”

 

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Latino Cultural Leaders Gather in Washington for “Fiesta de México” as World Cup 2026 Nears

Actor and comedian Jaime Camil, How to Get Away with Murder actress Karla Souza, and Mexican soccer superstar Jorge Campos among the attendees of Fiesta de México in Washington D.C., to remark on Mexican and Mexican American culture towards the FIFA World Cup 2026. -- Líderes culturales latinos se reúnen en Washington para “Fiesta de México” rumbo al Mundial 2026 Mientras se intensifican los preparativos para la Copa Mundial de la FIFA 2026, una velada cultural emblemática en Washington, D.C. puso de relieve la creciente colaboración entre México, Estados Unidos y Canadá, dentro y fuera de la cancha por los servicios de noticias de El Reportero Celebrada el 20 de diciembre de 2025, “Fiesta de México” transformó la histórica sede del Instituto Cultural Mexicano en la capital estadounidense en una vibrante muestra del patrimonio mexicano. La mansión de 1910, diseñada por el arquitecto Nathan C. Wyeth, se convirtió en escenario de música, danza, gastronomía y tradiciones de la Ciudad de México, Guadalajara y Monterrey, tres de las sedes mexicanas del torneo del próximo verano. El encuentro reunió a diplomáticos, representantes de la FIFA, funcionarios públicos y figuras destacadas del deporte y el entretenimiento. Entre los asistentes estuvieron la actriz Karla Souza, el actor y comediante Jaime Camil, y el legendario exguardameta mexicano Jorge Campos, junto con el ícono del futbol Luis Hernández. También participaron el creador digital José Emiliano “El Charro” González y la galardonada Corazon Folklorico Dance Company. Al inaugurar el evento, el embajador de México en Estados Unidos, Esteban Moctezuma, subrayó el significado más amplio de la diplomacia cultural. Señaló que las artes son a la vez un reflejo de la identidad nacional y un puente que fomenta el diálogo, el reconocimiento de las diferencias y la construcción colectiva. Para muchos asistentes, la velada destacó las contribuciones positivas de las comunidades mexicanas y mexicoamericanas en Estados Unidos. Ricardo Smith, presidente de la Asociación de Estudiantes Mexicanos de la Universidad de Georgetown, comentó que la presencia de figuras influyentes del deporte y el entretenimiento en Washington envía un mensaje poderoso sobre representación, inclusión e impacto. El programa incluyó presentaciones en vivo que abarcaron estilos regionales y contemporáneos: la cumbia urbana “sonidera” de la Ciudad de México, la música norteña tradicional de Monterrey interpretada por Pico de Gallo, y el mariachi de Guadalajara a cargo de Mariachi Imperio bajo la dirección de Blanca Chucuan. En conjunto, las actuaciones ofrecieron un recorrido sonoro por la diversidad cultural de México. El evento fue producido por el organizador mexicano Miguel G. Herevia, de Envoy Events, quien afirmó que el objetivo fue presentar la riqueza cultural y los atractivos turísticos de México en un momento histórico para Norteamérica y el deporte internacional. “Fiesta de México” también contó con la asistencia de altos funcionarios vinculados al torneo y a las regiones sede, entre ellos Jürgen Mainka, Pablo Lemus, Samuel García, Alejandra Frausto y Mikel Arriola. A medida que continúa la cuenta regresiva hacia el 11 de junio de 2026, fecha prevista para la ceremonia inaugural en la Ciudad de México, la celebración en Washington ofreció un claro adelanto de cómo la cultura, la diplomacia y el deporte convergen rumbo al torneo más visto del mundo. - Con información de la agencia RPA.

As preparations intensify for the FIFA World Cup 2026, a landmark cultural evening in Washington, D.C. highlighted the growing collaboration between Mexico, the United States, and Canada—on and off the soccer field

by El Reportero news services

Held on December 20, 2025, “Fiesta de México” transformed the historic Mexican Cultural Institute in the U.S. capital into a vibrant showcase of Mexican heritage. The 1910 mansion, designed by architect Nathan C. Wyeth, became the stage for music, dance, cuisine, and traditions from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey—three of the Mexican host cities for next summer’s tournament.

The gathering brought together diplomats, FIFA officials, public leaders, and prominent figures from sports and entertainment. Among those in attendance were actress Karla Souza, actor and comedian Jaime Camil, and legendary former Mexican goalkeeper Jorge Campos, alongside fellow soccer icon Luis Hernández. Digital creator José Emiliano “El Charro” González and the award-winning Corazon Folklorico Dance Company also took part in the celebration.

Opening the event, Mexican Ambassador to the United States Esteban Moctezuma emphasized the broader meaning of cultural diplomacy. He described the arts as both a reflection of national identity and a bridge that encourages dialogue, mutual understanding, and shared progress.

For many attendees, the evening underscored the positive contributions of Mexican and Mexican American communities in the United States. Ricardo Smith, president of the Georgetown University Association of Mexican Students, noted that the presence of influential figures from entertainment and sports in Washington sends a powerful message about representation, inclusion, and impact.

The program featured live performances spanning regional and contemporary styles: Mexico City’s urban cumbia “sonidero,” traditional norteño music from Monterrey by Pico de Gallo, and mariachi from Guadalajara performed by Mariachi Imperio under the direction of Blanca Chucuan. Together, the performances offered a sonic tour of Mexico’s cultural diversity.

The event was produced by Mexican event organizer Miguel G. Herevia of Envoy Events, who said the goal was to present Mexico’s cultural richness and tourism appeal at a historic moment for North America and international sports.

“Fiesta de México” also drew senior officials connected to the tournament and host regions, including Jürgen Mainka, Pablo Lemus, Samuel García, Alejandra Frausto, and Mikel Arriola.

As the countdown to June 11, 2026—when the opening ceremony is set to take place in Mexico City—continues, the Washington celebration offered a clear preview of how culture, diplomacy, and sport are converging ahead of the world’s most watched tournament.

– With information by RPA Agency.

 

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End-of-year Latino civic forum reflects on 2025, looks ahead to 2026

by the El Reportero‘s staff

San Francisco — Community leaders, advocates, and residents gathered Wednesday evening, December 24, in the Mission District for an End-of-Year Latino Civic Reflection & Community Forum, an event focused on assessing how public policy, local governance, and civic engagement shaped Latino communities in San Francisco during 2025.

Held at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts, the forum brought together nonprofit organizers, neighborhood activists, and local residents for an open conversation on housing, immigration, education, and political participation. The gathering served both as a reflection on the past year and as a call to remain engaged in civic life heading into 2026.

Speakers noted that 2025 was marked by heightened political activity and ongoing challenges affecting Latino families, particularly rising housing costs, concerns about immigration enforcement, and access to public services. Panelists emphasized that while elections often draw the most attention, meaningful civic participation extends well beyond the ballot box.

“Latino voices continue to grow in influence, but representation depends on year-round engagement,” said one community organizer during the discussion. “Attending city meetings, serving on commissions, and holding elected officials accountable are just as important as voting.”

Participants also discussed the role of local organizations in helping residents navigate complex systems, from tenant protections to legal resources. Several speakers highlighted the importance of bilingual outreach and culturally responsive services, noting that language access remains a barrier for many families seeking assistance or information.

The forum included time for audience participation, allowing attendees to share personal experiences and concerns. Residents spoke about the pressures facing working-class families, the need for affordable housing, and the importance of protecting long-established Latino neighborhoods amid continued development and displacement pressures.

Organizers framed the event as an opportunity for collective reflection rather than partisan debate. The emphasis, they said, was on civic empowerment, community solidarity, and sustained involvement in local decision-making.

As the year comes to a close, speakers encouraged attendees to carry the momentum into the new year by staying informed and engaged at the neighborhood and city levels. “Civic engagement doesn’t end in December,” one panelist remarked. “The conversations we have now help shape the policies of tomorrow.”

The End-of-Year Latino Civic Reflection & Community Forum concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening community ties and ensuring that Latino perspectives continue to play a central role in San Francisco’s civic life in the year ahead.

 

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Bimbo, the Mexican baking giant with a major U.S. presence, sues Trump over tariffs

The Bimbo name and its bread and snack products are everywhere in Mexico, but the company has extensive operations in the United States as well. (Cuartoscuro) -- La marca Bimbo y sus productos de pan y botanas están presentes en todas partes de México, pero la compañía también tiene operaciones extensas en Estados Unidos

by Mexico News Daily

Grupo Bimbo, one of the world’s largest baking companies, has filed a lawsuit in the United States challenging the import tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, arguing that they were applied unconstitutionally under the pretext of an “economic emergency.”

The lawsuit was filed on December 16 with the U.S. Court of International Trade (USCIT) in New York by Grupo Bimbo and several of its subsidiaries, including Bimbo Bakeries USA, Bimbo Bakehouse, Barcel USA LLC, and St. Pierre Groupe LLC. The filing seeks reimbursement for all tariffs already paid, although it does not specify the total amount being claimed.

Specifically, the lawsuit challenges the 25% tariffs imposed in February on goods imported from Mexico and Canada that are not covered by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The measures were part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to pressure both countries on immigration enforcement and trade balance issues.

Bimbo’s legal challenge is grounded in federal statutory law and the U.S. Constitution. In May, the USCIT ruled that the president does not have the authority to impose broad-based tariffs under either the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) or the National Emergencies Act (NEA). That ruling was upheld by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and is now awaiting final review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

A definitive decision by the nation’s highest court could reshape the balance of power between the executive branch and the legal framework governing international trade, potentially setting a precedent for future tariff disputes.

Bimbo in the U.S. market

Bimbo maintains a substantial presence in the United States, operating 43 brands and approximately 60 bakeries through Bimbo Bakeries USA. This localized production structure means that most of the bread and baked goods sold by the company in the U.S. are manufactured domestically.

According to company statements, less than 10% of Bimbo’s U.S. revenue comes from imports from Mexico, limiting the direct impact of the tariffs. Even so, the company’s North American sales have faced challenges, declining 5% in the third quarter to 47.47 billion pesos ($2.57 billion).

Bimbo attributes this downturn to shifts in U.S. consumer behavior, with shoppers increasingly polarized between seeking lower prices and favoring premium products amid broader economic pressures.

With reporting from Food Business News and Vanguardia.

In other non-related news:

At least five dead after Mexican Navy plane crashes during medical mission near Galveston

At least five people were killed after a Mexican Navy aircraft crashed near Galveston, Texas, on Monday while carrying out a medical mission. The plane was transporting a child with severe burn injuries along with members of a nonprofit medical organization.

The flight was conducted on behalf of the Michou and Mau Foundation, an organization that provides specialized care to Mexican children suffering from life-threatening burns. According to the Mexican Navy, eight people were on board: four Navy officers and four civilians, including the child. Two of the civilian passengers were affiliated with the foundation.

U.S. Coast Guard petty officer Luke Baker initially reported that at least five people on board had died, though the identities of the victims were not immediately released. Mexico’s Navy later confirmed that one person remains missing and that two others were rescued alive.

Flight-tracking data from Flight Radar shows the aircraft was last recorded at 3:01 p.m. local time over Galveston Bay, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southeast of Houston. Air traffic controllers reportedly lost communication with the plane approximately ten minutes before the crash, according to The Associated Press.

Videos shared with AP show aircraft debris floating in the water as rescue crews worked amid dense fog near Scholes International Airport. Following the crash, search and rescue operations were launched in coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard.

Sky Decker, a professional yacht captain who lives near the crash site, said he transported two police officers to the scene and later located a severely injured woman trapped in the submerged aircraft. Authorities were able to rescue her shortly afterward.

It remains unclear whether the heavy fog contributed to the accident. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board.

In a statement, the Michou and Mau Foundation expressed its deepest condolences to the affected families and reaffirmed its commitment to providing compassionate and dignified care to children with severe burns.

With information from BBC News, NPR, and The Associated Press.

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