Saturday, March 7, 2026
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Screening of “Between Rivers and Deserts”

The Coffee Tour is an experience you can't miss.(www.eventbrite.com/e/cafecito) -- Proyección de  “Entre Ríos y Desiertos”

By Magdy Zara

To learn the details of an excursion to Big Bend National Park, don’t miss “I Tell My Story: Between Rivers and Deserts,” a short documentary that presents voices and visions from beyond the rivers and deserts.

A group of Latino Outdoors leaders from across the country gathered in the park for a week of storytelling, community development, reflection, and landscape exploration. This is their story.

With your ticket purchase, you will support Latino Outdoors’ vital mission of creating inclusive and equitable outdoor experiences, amplifying the diverse voices of nature, and cultivating a culture of conservation.

The evening begins with a brief gathering accompanied by complimentary drinks and appetizers, followed by a screening of the film: “I Tell My Story: Between Rivers and Deserts.” A Q&A session with the LO leaders follows.

The venue chosen for this occasion is the Sports Basement Presidio, located at 610 Old Mason Street, in San Francisco, on February 12th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Ballet of Lights presents “Sleeping Beauty”: a dazzling spectacle

Enter a world where light and dance intertwine in this breathtaking version of Sleeping Beauty.

As the dancers glide across the stage, their illuminated costumes create a dazzling display of color and light, making every turn and leap seem otherworldly. This is not just a ballet performance: it is a magical experience that brings a beloved classic to life in a way never seen before.

Most impressive are the six incredible local dancers who light up the stage, their costumes glowing in the dark, transforming every movement into a radiant display.

This adaptation is the work of María Farelo and Cristian Pérez, who reinvented Sleeping Beauty through ballet. The event will take place on February 14, 2026, starting at 5 p.m., at the Brava Theater Center, located at 2781 24th St, San Francisco.

“Cafecito” Coffee Tour

Want to spend a different kind of morning and discover the most special places to enjoy a good cup of coffee? This is the perfect opportunity to take a guided tour to discover new cafes and bakeries, including a tasting.

The “Cafecito” Coffee Tour is being organized by Misión Lotería and is part of the Tours collection by Café Excelsior San Francisco.

Several dates have been scheduled for this tour, starting on February 15, followed by others on March 1 and 15 of this year.

The schedule is as follows: it begins at 10 a.m. with the meeting and introductions; 1st stop, Café Excelsior; 2nd stop, Panadería Andrea; 3rd stop, Cumaica; The tour will conclude at Oasis Fusion Kitchen with breakfast (tour participants will receive a 10% discount).

The meeting point is Café Excelsior, located at 4495 Calle Misión San Francisco.

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Latin America lights up with cultural festivals and celebrations this February

Dancers in colorful traditional costumes perform during the Carnaval de Barranquilla in Colombia, one of Latin America’s largest and most iconic cultural celebrations, drawing thousands of spectators each year. Illustration generated by AI for El Reportero-- Bailarines con coloridos trajes tradicionales actúan durante el Carnaval de Barranquilla en Colombia, una de las celebraciones culturales más grandes e icónicas de América Latina, que atrae a miles de espectadores cada año.

by the El Reportero‘s news services

Latin America is buzzing with vibrant cultural activity as February unfolds, offering visitors and locals alike rich experiences in art, literature, music and tradition. From Argentina to Mexico and beyond, the region’s dynamic cultural calendar has something for everyone this week and into the coming days.

In Godoy Cruz, Argentina, the Festival Bodoc 2026 is taking place from February 6 to 8 at the Biblioteca Manuel Belgrano. This free event honors the legacy of beloved fantasy author Liliana Bodoc, featuring immersive talks, creative workshops and gatherings inspired by her imaginative literary worlds. Fans of literature and storytelling can engage with authors, participate in workshops and explore the influence of Bodoc’s work on contemporary fantasy writing in Spanish.

Meanwhile in Mexico City, art lovers have one of the most important cultural fixtures in Latin America happening right now — Zona Maco 2026. This international contemporary art fair, held at the Citibanamex Center, showcases a breathtaking range of works from galleries across the continent and beyond. Painting, sculpture, installation, photography and cutting-edge media installations converge in one place, cementing Mexico City’s status as a central hub for the art world in Latin America.

Beyond these, February is traditionally one of the busiest months for cultural celebrations across the region. One of the most iconic annual events is the Carnaval de Barranquilla in Colombia — a UNESCO-recognized spectacle set to take place February 14–17 this year. This massive carnival blends indigenous, African and Spanish traditions into a kaleidoscope of colour and sound, with parades, traditional music, dance and elaborate costumes that transform the Caribbean city into a nonstop celebration.

Brazil is also preparing for festivities with the Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro — widely considered among the world’s largest cultural parties. From samba school parades in the Sambódromo to thousands of “blocos” (street parties) happening across the city, the event is a cauldron of rhythm and joy running February 13–21.

Looking ahead, Chile’s Viña del Mar International Song Festival is scheduled February 22–27. This renowned music festival draws artists from all over Latin America and beyond, blending musical competition, star performances and cultural pride at the historic Quinta Vergara amphitheatre.

Whether through literature, contemporary art, traditional carnival or international music showcases, Latin America ensures there’s never a dull moment for culture seekers this February.

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5 Tips for San Francisco solopreneurs to grow their businesses in 2026

AZMANL/E+ VIA GETTY IMAGES

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

You’ve put in the late nights, the weekends and the hustle. What may have started as a way to earn extra income has grown into something with real potential. If you handle everything on your own — logistics, production, marketing, finances and more — you’re part of a growing group of entrepreneurs known as “solopreneurs.”

While the traditional image of a small business includes an owner and a staff, many entrepreneurs find that solopreneurship best fits their goals, flexibility and business model. If you’re considering the solopreneur path, or already running your own operation, JPMorganChase offers five practical tips to help you grow your business in 2026.

  1. Identify or solidify your business opportunity

Whether you’re launching a new venture or refining an existing one, start by identifying a clear need in San Francisco or developing an idea that offers real value. This might be a service that helps people save time or a product that simplifies daily life.

Once you have a concept, preparation is key. Research industry trends to determine whether your idea fills a niche or meets a growing demand. Focus on long-term potential by understanding your total addressable market, not just short-term or seasonal success.

  1. Create or refine your business plan

A business plan doesn’t have to be lengthy, but it should be clear. Start with a concise business description that outlines your mission, goals and strategy. Include a competitive analysis, marketing approach and basic financial projections.

If you’re already operating, evaluate your customer base. Do customers return? Do they refer others? A steady and growing audience is a strong indicator that your business is ready to scale beyond a side hustle.

  1. Maximize savings to support growth

Many solopreneurs use personal savings to get started, while others rely on business lines of credit or small business loans to fund equipment, marketing or expansion. Regardless of how you begin, consistent saving can help create long-term stability.

One option for self-employed business owners is the Solo 401(k) from JPMorganChase, designed for owners without full-time employees other than a spouse. This plan allows high annual contributions — up to $72,000 for yourself and your spouse — with both pre-tax and Roth options.

Consistency matters. Chase data shows that while Solo 401(k)s are popular among self-employed individuals, about 70% didn’t contribute in the past year. Setting up automatic monthly contributions or scheduling regular check-ins with a financial advisor can help build sustainable habits that strengthen long-term results.

Additional funding options may include angel investors, who often provide early-stage capital in exchange for ownership, or crowdfunding. With the right product and strategy, crowdfunding can generate smaller contributions from a large audience while helping you connect with potential customers early.

  1. Develop your marketing and brand strategy

A strong brand helps customers understand who you are and why you matter. Define your brand voice, value proposition and ideal audience. Then choose marketing channels that align with your goals, such as social media, email marketing or paid advertising.

As you build a marketing budget, consider costs for tools, ads and outsourced services like graphic design or content creation. Start small, track results and invest more in what works. Networking is also essential. Building relationships with mentors and other entrepreneurs can provide guidance, referrals and new opportunities.

  1. Plan for growth and operations

Growth requires planning beyond sales. Consider logistics such as order fulfillment, customer service, scheduling and project management. Investing in the right tools can streamline operations, save time and improve the customer experience.

Self-employment also brings new tax responsibilities, including quarterly estimated taxes and self-employment tax. Depending on your industry, you may need to collect and remit sales tax, sometimes across multiple states.

While many solopreneurs operate as sole proprietors, scaling up may mean exploring a more formal business structure. An LLC is common, but the best choice depends on your long-term goals, liability concerns and compliance requirements. You may also need licenses, permits, insurance or contracts before expanding.

If you’re ready to take your solo business to the next level, your local financial institution can offer guidance and resources. You can also connect with a Chase business banker for personalized support.

Disclosure

This article is for informational and educational purposes only. The opinions expressed may differ from the official policies or positions of JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and do not constitute legal, tax or financial advice. Products and strategies described may not be suitable for everyone. Consult appropriate professionals before making business or financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Deposit products are provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.

© 2026 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

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Julio Bravo and his orchestra present “love, friendship, and salsa”

The "Drawing Life" exhibition concludes this February 8th. (Courtesy: Sausalito Arts Center) -- Exposición Dibujando la Vida, concluye este 8 de febrero.

By Magdy Zara

Julio Bravo and his Salsabor Orchestra have been providing great music to salsa lovers in the Bay Area for over 28 years.

Bravo, the lead singer and band leader, is originally from Peru and has assembled a talented group of musicians to create their own unique blend of energetic and danceable salsa, making them one of the best salsa bands in the Bay Area.

This February, in celebration of Valentine’s Day, they have scheduled a series of concerts called “Love, Friendship, and Salsa.”

On February 1st and 2nd, they will be performing at Seahorse, Sausalito, at 5 p.m.

On Friday, February 6th, they will be at Havana Walnut Creek at 6 p.m.

On Saturday, February 14th, they will be at Zona, Antioch at 9 p.m.

Sunday, February 15th at Opera House, Sacramento at 7 p.m.

Los Calderones present at the First Friday of the South

Los Calderones are a Cuban entertainment company dedicated to bringing joy and culture, focusing on Afro-Latin culture.

This first Friday of the South in February, Los Calderones will perform a high-energy live show, coinciding with the exhibition “From Their Hands to Ours.”

“From Their Hands to Ours,” an exhibition held in collaboration with the Montalvo Arts Center, highlights how ancestral wisdom and childhood experiences shape identity. The exhibition intertwines stories of tradition, trauma, and growth through painting, sculpture, textile art, and video.

On February 6th, two free sets will be available starting at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. at MACLA, located at 510 South 1st Street, San Jose.

Sausalito Arts Center presents Drawn from Life:

“Drawn from Life” is this year’s theme for an annual curated exhibition featuring figurative painting, drawing, and sculpture by a dynamic group of prominent Bay Area artists.

Not a relic of the past, this work embodies the living, evolving spirit of the current Bay Area Figurative Movement. The artists do not merely capture the human form, but rather tell contemporary stories, exploring emotion, memory, and meaning through their art.

Each artist brings a distinctive and expressive voice to their work.

The exhibition opened to the public on Saturday, January 10, 2026, and will close on Sunday, February 8, at 3 p.m., with a talk by exhibiting artist Stephen Namara, live drawing with Peter Williams, and refreshments.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this wonderful exhibition, taking place at the Sausalito Arts Center, located at 750 Bridgeway, Sausalito, starting at 11:00 a.m.

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Antigua Guatemala: myth, colonial charm, and cultural resilience

by the El Reportero staff

Antigua Guatemala is a city forged by catastrophe and renewal. Formerly known as Santiago de los Caballeros de Guatemala, it ranked among the most important urban centers in colonial Latin America. A series of powerful earthquakes—most notably those of June and July 1773, remembered as the Santa Marta earthquakes—reduced the city to ruins. Palaces, churches, convents, and homes collapsed. Fires spread through the streets. Hundreds died, thousands were injured, and relentless aftershocks finished what the main quake began. For the city, time appeared to stand still.

At its height, Antigua was home to between 50,000 and 60,000 residents and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala, governing much of Central America from 1543 until independence in 1821. After the devastation of 1773, colonial authorities determined that the Panchoy Valley was too dangerous for reconstruction. The capital was relocated roughly 40 kilometers east to what is now Guatemala City—an extraordinary decision for a city of such size and importance.

Left behind, Antigua entered a prolonged dormancy. Construction ceased and administrative functions moved to the new capital. Over time, abandoned ruins and silent streets gave rise to a romantic atmosphere that would later define the city’s character. In 1799, residents who refused to abandon the old capital secured the creation of a local council, gradually restoring civic life. Antigua regained official city status in 1826.

The 20th century marked a cultural rebirth. In 1943, the government declared Antigua a National Monument, limiting modern construction and protecting its colonial scale. Restoration followed, culminating in its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Conservation efforts preserved its Spanish-era identity—low skylines, cobblestone streets, and baroque ruins set against surrounding volcanoes.

Today, Antigua is both an international destination and a local refuge. Visitors are drawn to its churches, convents, museums, and landmarks such as the Arco de Santa Catalina and the Palace of the Captains General. Semana Santa remains its most powerful ritual, when intricate sawdust carpets briefly transform the streets.

Tourism has brought prosperity and strain, but Antigua endures as a living city—rich in history, culture, and daily life.
—With reports by Zeus Naya Catalá.

 

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Feds order GM to stop selling driver data without informed consent

Experts say that many drivers unknowingly give up their privacy rights, as this information is often hidden in the fine print. (AdobeStock)-- Experts say many drivers sign away their privacy rights without realizing it, because it is often buried in the fine print.

by Suzanne Potter

Imagine if your insurance company raised your rates because your car has been spying on you, sending information which ends up with data brokers every time you brake too hard, drive at night, or go over the speed limit.

It is what the Federal Trade Commission said happened to drivers of General Motors vehicles with the OnStar Smart Driver feature. Now the commission has ordered the data transfers be stopped.

The FTC action follows a broader national debate over digital surveillance and consumer rights, as lawmakers scrutinize how emerging technologies collect and monetize personal information. Regulators warn that connected vehicles, once marketed primarily for safety and convenience, are increasingly becoming data-harvesting platforms, raising concerns about transparency, accountability and the long-term consequences for consumer autonomy and privacy protections.

Lena Cohen, staff technologist for the nonprofit Electronic Frontier Foundation, said some drivers had no idea they had enrolled in the feature because car salespeople signed them up without telling them to get an enrollment bonus.

“But even drivers who did realize they’d signed up for these OnStar features didn’t realize the extent of the data they were sharing and what that data was being used for,” Cohen explained.

GM said in a statement the company has discontinued the Smart Driver program, unenrolled all customers, and ended relationships with data companies LexisNexis and Verisk. The commission imposed a five-year ban on GM and OnStar disclosing certain data to consumer reporting agencies. For 20 years, the company must also get consent from consumers prior to collecting, using, or sharing connected vehicle data, create a way for people to request a copy of their data and get it deleted and allow consumers to opt out or disable data collection.

Cohen urged Congress to pass strong data privacy laws applying to all car companies.

“It’s too easy for companies to bury their data collection and sharing practices in long terms of service that no one actually reads,” Cohen asserted. “All carmakers should be forced to get people’s explicit consent before engaging in invasive data-sharing practices like these.”

You can find out what data your car is set up to collect at VehiclePrivacyReport.com. It is also possible to request a report from Lexis Nexis and Verisk to see what information they have about you.

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Here’s what Pope Leo fails to understand about the ‘Donroe Doctrine’

Pope Leo XIV speaks alongside Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the Presidential Palace on November 30, 2025 in Beirut, Lebanon -- Pope Leo XIV speaks alongside Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the Presidential Palace on November 30, 2025 in Beirut, Lebanon

by Steven Mosher

The Trump administration is not discarding Christian values in the international arena or anywhere else. It is putting them into practice.

Pope Leo XIV’s Catholic perspective on international relations, communicated in his January 9 “State of the World” address to foreign ambassadors accredited to the Holy See, has been widely interpreted as an implicit critique of the so-called “Donroe Doctrine.” In pursuing hemispheric security, the Pope suggested, the United States should not abandon its historic commitment to democratic ideals and human rights abroad. These higher values, rooted in the spiritual insights of St. Augustine’s City of God, must never be set aside in global affairs.

Three American cardinals—Cupich, McElroy, and Tobin—have echoed this concern, criticizing President Trump’s foreign policy for retreating from multilateralism and globalism. They argue this shift weakens America’s moral role in confronting evil worldwide. Such claims, however, reflect a misunderstanding of both American history and current policy.

From its earliest days, the United States has upheld democratic principles, religious liberty, and human rights. The Constitution, crafted by Christian founders, remains the greatest governing document ever produced. Its Bill of Rights established freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly, and due process that became the foundation of modern human rights. As America marks 250 years of independence, it is worth remembering how profoundly this model of ordered liberty has influenced the world.

Roughly 160 of the world’s 170 constitutions draw, at least in part, from the U.S. model. By its very existence, the United States promotes democratic values and human dignity. America’s role as a beacon of freedom does not depend on military imposition but on faithful practice at home. Free elections, peaceful transitions of power, secure borders, safe streets, and equal opportunity do more to advance human rights than any foreign intervention.

When America lives its principles, others seek to emulate them. The collapse of communism in Eastern Europe illustrates this truth. President Reagan challenged tyranny rhetorically, but it was the people themselves who dismantled the Berlin Wall and dissolved the Soviet Union. Today, similar aspirations for freedom are heard in Venezuela and Iran, inspired by the American example.

Attempts to export democracy by force, as seen in Iraq and Afghanistan, have failed. Democratic systems can only take root where populations share the underlying beliefs that sustain them. They cannot be imposed on societies fundamentally opposed to their principles.

Pope Leo lamented the decline of multilateralism, arguing that the post–World War II framework designed to prevent nations from violating borders has eroded. Yet that framework emerged from the United Nations, an idealistic but ultimately flawed institution. The U.N. has proven incapable of preventing conflict or protecting human rights, with its Human Rights Council often dominated by the world’s worst offenders.

The Trump administration’s National Security Strategy recognizes this failure. Unilateral action has replaced ineffective multilateralism, and notably, without firing a shot, Trump has ended eight conflicts that might have escalated into wider wars. This approach is not hegemonic. The “Donroe Doctrine” does not seek American dominance but protection of the United States and its neighbors from genuine threats, particularly China’s global ambitions.

In this, President Trump aligns closely with President James Monroe. The Monroe Doctrine was never about controlling Latin America. It warned European powers against recolonization or interference, asserting that such actions would be viewed as hostile. Then and now, the goal has been to prevent external domination of the hemisphere, not to impose American rule.

Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro illustrates this principle. The regime, aligned with China, brutalized its people and endangered Americans. Removing Maduro creates the possibility for democracy, human rights, and religious freedom. Few doubt that America’s ultimate aim is to respect the will of the Venezuelan people and secure a stable, free future.

The Trump administration is not abandoning the Christian virtues articulated by St. Augustine 1,600 years ago. It is applying them prudently in a dangerous world. That is the American way.

(Steven Mosher is the president of the Population Research Institute and an internationally recognized authority on China and population issues. He was the first American social scientist allowed to conduct fieldwork in communist China (1979-1980), where he witnessed forced abortions and sterilizations of women under the new one-child policy.)

– This article was cut to fit space.

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A lesson shared too late: Policing, protest, and the cost of pulling the trigger

Marvin Ramírez, editor

by Marvin Ramírez

Years ago, during San Francisco Carnaval, I had a brief conversation with two rookie police officers—a young woman and a young man—standing together amid the music, color and joy of the celebration. They were clearly new to the force, energized, proud, and excited to be part of something larger than themselves. I congratulated them. Protecting the community is not a small responsibility. It is an honor, but it is also a burden.

Before walking away, I shared something that has stayed with me ever since. I told the young woman, calmly and respectfully: If you ever have a chance not to kill the person in front of you, don’t shoot to kill. I told her that taking a life—especially when it could have been avoided—stays with you forever. In your heart. In your mind. In the quiet moments when the noise fades and the uniform comes off.

I wasn’t speaking as a tactician or an expert in weapons training. I was speaking as a human being. If a person can be stopped, immobilized, or disarmed without killing them, that option should always matter. We are not on a battlefield. Our cities are not war zones. Police officers are not soldiers confronting an enemy force. They are public servants operating among civilians—neighbors, families, children.

Watching recent events unfold in Minneapolis, that conversation came rushing back to me. I see suffering on all sides. I see the families of those who were killed, shattered and grieving. But I also see the officers involved—people who must now live with the weight of their actions, whether justified or not. A life lost destroys more than one future. It radiates outward, harming families, communities, and the social fabric we all depend on.

I’ve heard for years that police training is modeled, in part, on military doctrine—shoot until the subject stops moving. I don’t know how universal or accurate that claim is, but if it holds any truth, then it deserves urgent re-examination. That philosophy belongs in combat, not community policing. Multiple shots—three, five, six, seven—raise serious moral and practical questions. If one shot can bring a person down, why escalate to lethal certainty?

Accountability matters, but clarity matters too. The officer who fires makes the decision in seconds, based on their perception in that moment. Their supervisor, the police chief, the mayor, even the president—none of them pull the trigger. Blame cannot simply be outsourced up the chain. But training can be reformed. Expectations can be redefined. The goal should be to stop the threat, not to guarantee death.

At the same time, we must speak honestly about protest culture today. When demonstrations turn violent—when officers are attacked, surrounded, or provoked—the risk of death rises dramatically. An officer under physical assault will react as someone fighting for their life. That is reality, not ideology. Peaceful protest is a protected right. Violent confrontation is not. And when violence erupts, everyone loses.

There are also serious questions being raised—by authorities themselves—about whether some protests are being organized, funded, or manipulated to provoke chaos rather than reform. If groups are deliberately escalating conflict to manufacture outrage or destabilize communities, that should concern everyone, regardless of political affiliation. Justice cannot be built on engineered disorder.

What troubles me further is the selective outrage I see on the global stage. Mass protests erupt over certain causes, while the killings of unarmed women in Iran barely register in the streets. I don’t dismiss anyone’s right to protest, but inconsistency reveals agenda. Are some movements less about justice and more about confrontation? Are some protests seeking resolution—or deliberately courting tragedy to fuel a larger narrative?

These are uncomfortable questions, but they must be asked.

We need policing that protects life, including the lives of officers themselves. We need training rooted in restraint, judgment, and humanity. And we need protests that demand accountability without manufacturing violence. If we fail on any of these fronts, the cycle will continue—more deaths, more grief, more division.

I think back to those two young officers at Carnaval. I hope they remember that moment. I hope they never have to carry the weight I warned about. And I hope we, as a society, decide that saving lives—not taking them—must remain the highest priority.

 

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Boost your immunity with these 12 foods rich in zinc

by Ramon Tomey

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in immune defense, wound healing, DNA synthesis and normal growth. Yet despite its importance, many people fail to meet their daily zinc requirements — about 8 milligrams (mg) for women and 11 mg for men — due to modern dietary habits or absorption issues.

Zinc deficiency can weaken immunity, slow recovery from illness and impair metabolic functions. The good news is that zinc is widely available in natural foods, particularly seafood, meats, legumes, seeds and fortified grains. Prioritizing these foods can help restore nutritional balance and support long-term wellness.

Below are 12 zinc-rich foods that can help strengthen immune health.

Oysters
Oysters are the most concentrated natural source of zinc, delivering between 32 mg and 74 mg per three-ounce serving — up to 673 percent of the daily value (DV). Whether eaten raw or cooked, oysters provide an unmatched mineral boost.

Shellfish
Other shellfish such as lobster (6 mg per 3 oz), crab (3.2 mg) and shrimp (1.4 mg) also supply zinc along with protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Dietary guidelines recommend at least two seafood servings per week.

Salmon
Salmon contains modest zinc levels (about 0.5 mg per 3 oz), but its high omega-3 and vitamin B12 content makes it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Red meat
Beef, pork and lamb are among the richest zinc sources, providing 4 mg to 10 mg per serving. Lean beef offers up to 91 percent of the DV, while lamb supplies about 64 percent per three-ounce portion.

Poultry
Chicken and turkey deliver 1.5 mg to 5.5 mg of zinc per serving. Dark-meat chicken provides roughly 36 percent of the DV per cup. Choosing minimally processed cuts helps preserve nutrients.

Legumes
Beans, lentils and chickpeas supply 1.3 mg to 3.7 mg of zinc per serving, making them important options for plant-based diets. A cup of baked beans delivers about 34 percent of the DV.

Nuts
Peanuts, almonds and mixed nuts provide between 0.7 mg and 2.3 mg per serving. In addition to zinc, nuts contribute healthy fats and plant protein.

Seeds
Pumpkin, sunflower and sesame seeds are zinc-dense, offering 1.7 mg to 2.8 mg per ounce. Pumpkin seeds alone supply about 20 percent of the DV and are rich in magnesium and antioxidants.

Eggs
A single hard-boiled egg contains roughly 0.5 mg of zinc, mostly in the yolk. Eggs are an easy and affordable way to supplement daily intake. Food.news.

Tofu
Tofu provides about 4 mg of zinc per cup — approximately 36 percent of the DV — making it a key protein source for vegetarians and vegans.

Dairy products
Milk, yogurt and cheese contribute 1 mg to 3 mg of zinc per serving. Swiss cheese stands out, offering nearly 28 percent of the DV per half-cup.

Fortified cereals and whole grains
Fortified breakfast cereals can provide about 3.75 mg of zinc per cup, while whole grains like oats and brown rice offer 12 percent to 21 percent of the DV.

Why zinc from food matters
Zinc from whole foods is generally more bioavailable than synthetic supplements, meaning it is more easily absorbed and used by the body. Natural sources also deliver complementary nutrients that enhance zinc’s benefits, while isolated supplements may increase the risk of imbalance or toxicity if misused.

Historically, traditional diets rich in shellfish, meats and whole foods supplied ample zinc. Today, processed foods often crowd out these nutrient-dense options, making intentional zinc consumption more important than ever.

By incorporating a variety of zinc-rich foods — from oysters and beef to legumes and seeds — individuals can support immune function naturally and strengthen overall health in an era of growing nutritional challenges.

 

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Latin America watches visa policy closely as FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches

by the El Reportero staff

As anticipation builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, a growing concern across Latin America is not about goals, stadiums, or teams — but visas.

The 2026 tournament will be historic in scale, expanding to 48 national teams and attracting millions of international fans. The United States alone will host the majority of matches, including key knockout rounds. For many Latin American supporters, however, the excitement is tempered by uncertainty over whether they will be allowed to enter the country to attend the games.

Recent media reports and political debate have fueled confusion, with claims circulating that the United States may deny visas to citizens from certain countries during the World Cup period. In reality, U.S. officials have clarified that there is no blanket ban on tourist visas for World Cup fans, but entry will still depend on existing immigration rules and individual screening.

Holding a match ticket does not guarantee entry into the United States. Fans must still obtain a valid tourist visa (B1/B2) or qualify under the Visa Waiver Program. To manage the expected surge in applications, U.S. authorities have announced a special process — often referred to as a “FIFA Pass” — designed to prioritize visa interviews for ticket holders. While this system may speed up appointments, it does not ensure approval.

For Latin American countries with historically long visa wait times, the concern is logistical as much as political. In some nations, tourist visa interview backlogs stretch for months or even years. Without early preparation, many fans risk missing the opportunity altogether.

Diplomatic pressure is also mounting. Leaders from several Latin American nations have urged Washington to streamline the visa process, warning that restrictive access could undermine the spirit of a tournament meant to unite cultures and continents through sport.

As the World Cup approaches, the message from immigration experts is clear: fans hoping to attend matches in the United States should apply early, follow official guidance, and avoid misinformation. The world’s biggest sporting event may be played on the field — but for many, the first hurdle will be at the consulate.

 

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