That’s not a bad description of the present moment in the Middle East. When President Donald Trump lands in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday for a four-day tour of the Gulf, he’ll encounter a region in turmoil and grave danger—a region in crisis. But let’s be honest: When in living memory has the Middle East not been?

Still, the etymology of “crisis” points to an equally valid, and much more hopeful, view of the region. The word comes from the Greek krisis and has carried through history parts of its earlier meaning as a turning point, for better or worse, in the progression of a disease.

In politics, a crisis is a statesman’s best chance to seize the opportunity and achieve glory, as Machiavelli would put it. “Never let a good crisis go to waste,” Winston Churchill is purported to have said.

Trump’s moves ahead of his big trip suggest he sees this Mideast moment more as a turning point—and an opportunity—than a time of extreme peril. If Trump accomplishes in the region what he seems intent on doing, then his actions might also be seen as an historic pivot in American politics.

The president wants to avoid a war with Iran and end the one in Gaza. He wants to remove troops and sanctions from Syria. He wants to strike a trillion dollars’ worth of deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. More generally, he wants to put the lid back on a region that exploded under Joe Biden.

What’s notable about each of these goals is that Trump, in pursuing them, is acting over the heads—and against the wishes—of Israeli political leadership. In normal times, Israel holds veto rights over America’s Middle East policy, and some Israeli officials still believe that to be the case, but these are far from normal times, and Trump is far from being a normal U.S. president. Tensions are rising between America and Israel thanks to Trump’s newfound willingness to put some daylight between the two nations, which is why the Jewish state didn’t make the cut on this week’s presidential itinerary.

The latest major example of the growing U.S.-Israel divide: Trump’s team negotiated directly with Hamas, breaking from U.S. diplomatic custom, to get an American hostage released from Gaza. Before that, the White House reached a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the Yemeni Houthis—despite the group’s continued strikes targeting Israel. And Trump’s openness to letting Iran continue uranium enrichment under a nuclear deal has rankled Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Biden gave Bibi a warm embrace; Trump is giving him the cold shoulder.

And Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is putting Bibi on notice. Recently, he told the families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas that their government’s refusal to end the war in Gaza was delaying the release of their loved ones. “Israel is prolonging the war, even though we do not see where further progress can be made,” Witkoff said.

In Israel, Trump is more popular than Netanyahu, and getting a hostage deal is more popular than continuing the war. So Witkoff’s provocative intervention in Israeli domestic politics endangers the prime minister’s standing. Many analysts believe that Bibi sees Israel’s war in Gaza—and its antagonisms in Lebanon, Syria, and Iran—as key to political survival. If so, then Netanyahu’s extremist government is behaving like a glorified protection racket, provoking adversaries and escalating conflicts so that “Mr. Security,” as Bibi is known, can defend the nation from threats he’s helped inflame.

The emerging possibility that Washington could reduce or cease support for Israel if Jerusalem refuses to halt the war in Gaza seems to be altering Bibi’s political calculus. That wasn’t immediately apparent. Over the weekend, rumors surfaced that Netanyahu told security officials, “I think we’ll have to detox from U.S. security assistance.” As I noted on X, the alleged comment suggested that Bibi, when given the choice between sustaining the war in Gaza and sustaining American support, had chosen the former—revealing how divorced the Israeli premier’s political interests had become from his country’s national interests.

But on Monday, Axios reported that Netanyahu, after a meeting with Witkoff, had agreed to dispatch negotiators to Qatar to resume ceasefire talks. Reacting to the news, Trita Parsi of the Quincy Institute wrote on X that Trump, unlike Biden, “used American leverage and Netanyahu caved,” and that “Trump must now sustain that pressure.”

Whether Trump will indeed sustain the pressure isn’t clear. In part that’s because U.S. politicians who take on Israel face pushback from the Israel lobby—a fact that MAGA conservatives are increasingly willing to point out. As Florida’s former Rep. Matt Gaetz noted during a recent podcast interview, “If you oppose the U.S.-Israel relationship, you face tremendous headwinds to get into government.” You also face tremendous headwinds once in government.

But there’s reason to think Trump can overcome this most formidable of political obstacles.

No U.S. president in modern times has personalized international relations to the extent Trump has. Trump’s personalistic approach to world affairs means he has a direct interest in preventing foreign leaders from getting an upper hand on him. While past presidents like Biden grumbled in private about Netanyahu’s intransigence even while publicly backing him, Trump is inclined to want his power over Netanyahu—and by extension, America’s power over Israel—to be on full display.

Trump has a more standard political motivation to stop the Gaza war: If he succeeded, his popularity, not just in the United States but around the world, would rise. Americans have soured on Israel in recent years and increasingly don’t want their government to fund the horror show in Gaza. Incredibly, a majority of Americans now express an unfavorable opinion of the country, according to a Pew report published in April. Trump would be acting in line with the preferences of the nation he leads if he convinced Netanyahu to cease fire.

He’d also be acting in line with the preferences of other nations, including Western ones with governments that back Israel. Germany, for example, has been a major funder of the Gaza war and has cracked down on speech criticizing the Jewish state—yet a new survey shows that only 36 percent of Germans have a positive view of Israel. If Trump can end the bloodshed in Gaza, he’ll not only improve America’s reputation in Muslim countries, but boost his own image in western Europe, where he is deeply unpopular.

Back in America, liberal journalists and progressive politicos have noticed Trump’s tough treatment of Netanyahu. “It’s really something to watch Trump handle Netanyahu more effectively than alleged foreign policy expert Joe Biden did,” wrote Matt Duss, former advisor to Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), on X. Tom Friedman of the New York Times, in a recent column, penned an open letter to Trump praising him for bucking Bibi. “Netanyahu is not our friend,” Friedman wrote. “He did think he could make you his chump, though.”

Of course, while Trump has set the stage for astonishing geopolitical success, he’s still got to follow through. The longtime golfer has also got to hit the ball right down the middle, lest the Middle East become a sand trap for his second administration. Moreover, he’s got to act fast. The Israeli government seeks ethnic cleansing in Gaza—Netanyahu all but admitted this weekend that any other professed war aim is a “bluff”—and it plans to conquer and flatten the strip after Trump wraps up his tour of the Gulf later this week.

During his trip, Trump should make unambiguously clear that America will no longer write a blank check to Israel and that the Gaza war must be resolved in a stable and humane fashion. Rumor has it he may even declare U.S. recognition of the state of Palestine. But Israel would go to great lengths to prevent Palestinian self-determination. If Trump can at least get a ceasefire, he will have gone a long way toward breaking Israel’s hold on American politics, thereby freeing himself to rack up more diplomatic wins, including a landmark nuclear agreement with Tehran.

He will also have shown that the Middle East needn’t be a region in crisis—unless that word means an opportunity for U.S. diplomacy to build a more peaceful and prosperous world, and for a U.S. president to cover himself in glory.

Reprinted with permission from The American Conservative.

Interior minister invites pope to Mexico at first Mass in Vatican

May 23, 2025

by the El Reportero wire services

On Sunday, following his inaugural Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, Mexico’s Interior Minister, Rosa Icela Rodríguez, invited Pope Leo XIV to visit Mexico on behalf of President Claudia Sheinbaum.

The Mass saw the attendance of heads of state from around the world, as well as official delegations from numerous countries.

“From St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV sent greetings to President Claudia Sheinbaum and the people of Mexico,” Rodríguez wrote on her official X account, along with a video that shows her greeting the pope and gifting him an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Sheinbaum had announced her intention to invite the pope to Mexico ahead of Rodríguez’s trip to the Vatican.

“The Interior Minister will go [to the Vatican], where we will deliver a letter to the Vatican. If she can see him [the pope] in person, that’s perfect. If not, a letter will still be delivered inviting him to come to Mexico on a date he deems appropriate,” Sheinbaum said on May 12.

Speaking from the Vatican, Rodríguez highlighted the similarities in attitudes “towards the poor” of the new pope and Mexico’s current administration. She recognized Pope Leo XIV’s social work, his commitment to supporting migrants and his closeness to the Indigenous peoples of Latin America.

Rodríguez also celebrated the bond between Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis. She predicted “there will be continuity in the message of unity in favor of the marginalized, migrants and those who most need support in the world,” Rodríguez said. “Leo XIV will also be a pope who will become a friend of the people of Mexico.”

Cardinal Robert Prevost, from the United States, was elected pope under the name of Leo XIV on May 8. Two Mexican cardinals participated in the conclave that elected the new Pope: the Archbishop of Guadalajara, Francisco Robles, and the Archbishop Primate of Mexico, Carlos Aguiar.

Mexico has the second-largest Catholic community in the world, with roughly 111 million Catholics. According to a recent survey by the newspaper El Financiero, 69 percent of Catholics in Mexico have a positive opinion of Pope Leo XIV.

With reports from La Jornada and EFE.

Ancient herbal duo fights phlegm, clears lungs, and heals colds

May 23, 2025

by Marvin Ramírez, El Reportero

When cold and flu season strikes, it often brings a heavy load of phlegm, coughing, and fatigue. For centuries, two humble yet powerful herbs have stood out in traditional medicine for their ability to heal the lungs and calm the respiratory system: eucalyptus and gordo lobo. Used together or on their own, they offer one of the most effective natural remedies for clearing mucus and restoring easy breathing.

Eucalyptus, known for its clean, menthol-like aroma, contains eucalyptol (cineole), a natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory compound. The leaves, when brewed into a tea or used in steam inhalation, help break down thick mucus, open the lungs, and relieve sinus pressure. In many Latino households, eucalyptus is the first remedy used when someone starts coughing or shows signs of a cold.

Gordo lobo—also called mullein—is equally valued. The soft, velvety leaves of this plant are known for soothing the respiratory tract and helping to expel phlegm. Gordo lobo works as a demulcent, coating and calming the throat, while also acting as a gentle expectorant. It is especially helpful for dry, persistent coughs and post-cold recovery.

Together, eucalyptus and gordo lobo form a powerful natural treatment. Eucalyptus opens the airways and fights infection, while gordo lobo supports the lungs and reduces irritation. The combination offers relief for colds, bronchitis, and respiratory congestion—without relying on synthetic drugs.

How to Make the Tea:
To prepare this traditional remedy, bring two cups of water to a boil. Add four or five eucalyptus leaves (fresh or dried) and one tablespoon of dried gordo lobo. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes. Turn off the heat and let steep, covered, for another 5 minutes. Strain carefully—especially the gordo lobo, which contains tiny hairs that should not be swallowed. Add honey and lemon for flavor and additional healing.

Drink warm, two to three times a day during cold symptoms, especially when there’s phlegm. For stronger relief, you can also inhale the steam: boil the leaves in water, place the pot on a table, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the vapors for 10 minutes.

Backed by Tradition—and Science:

Modern studies confirm what our ancestors already knew. Eucalyptol has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve breathing in people with chronic bronchitis. Gordo lobo contains compounds that soothe tissues, reduce coughing, and help fight off viruses. Unlike most over-the-counter syrups, these herbs support the body’s natural healing.

These plants are especially useful for people sensitive to strong medications or exposed to dust, smoke, or cold, damp weather. They help not just to suppress symptoms, but to clear them from the body gently and naturally.

A Remedy for Today’s World:
As healthcare costs rise and concern grows over drug side effects, many are returning to natural medicine. Eucalyptus and gordo lobo are affordable, easy to prepare, and widely available in herb shops and mercados. They not only heal—they connect us to a tradition of plant-based care that has served families for generations.

This tea is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural inheritance, a way to honor our roots while taking care of our bodies. The next time you feel congested, reach for this herbal duo. The relief you’re looking for might be in a leaf—steeped in wisdom, passed down through time.

Newsom Proposes Freezing Medi-Cal Enrollment for Undocumented Immigrants

May 23, 2025

frontpg_freeze Medi-Cal _5.23.25 — Benefits counselor Perla López assists an undocumented adult at St. John's Community Health in Los Angeles on December 19, 2023. Undocumented adults will be eligible for Medi-Cal coverage next year. -- La consejera de beneficios Perla López asiste a un adulto indocumentado en St. John's Community Health en Los Ángeles el 19 de diciembre de 2023. Los adultos indocumentados serán elegibles para la cobertura de Medi-Cal el próximo año.

To save more than $5 billion, the governor wants to curb new enrollments and charge monthly premiums. Democratic lawmakers reject the idea

by Kristen Hwang and Ana B. Ibarra

A year after expanding Medi-Cal to all low-income immigrants without legal status, Governor Gavin Newsom proposed freezing new enrollments and charging monthly premiums, a measure that seeks to save the state more than $5 billion.

Newsom’s budget plan establishes that, starting in 2026, Medi-Cal—the public insurance for low-income and disabled people—will no longer accept new undocumented adults age 19 and older. Those already enrolled, approximately 1.6 million people, will retain their coverage. Children will remain eligible. In addition, all undocumented immigrants would retain access to emergency medical care and prenatal care, services funded by the federal government.

However, those who do not enroll by January 2026 would not have access to regular medical services such as consultations or prescription drugs.

The proposal requires approval by the state Legislature. So far, Democratic lawmakers—particularly those in the Latino Legislative Caucus—have shown strong opposition.

“I am completely against what is being proposed, as it would reform Medi-Cal in a way that excludes working Californians,” said Sen. Lena González, a Long Beach Democrat and co-chair of the Latino caucus. “We understand that budget adjustments need to be made, but this should not be the way to go.”

In addition to freezing enrollment, Newsom proposes that, starting in 2027, adults with “unsatisfactory immigration status” pay a monthly premium of $100. This would include people with certain legal status but who do not qualify for federal Medicaid. The governor’s office notes that this premium is lower than the average subsidized premium in Covered California.

The proposal has sparked outrage among health advocates. Amanda McAllister-Wallner, executive director of Health Access California, called it a betrayal of the governor’s commitment to universal healthcare. “These measures are reckless and reckless. It’s an abandonment of his legacy,” she said in a statement.

Newsom also proposed eliminating long-term care coverage and comprehensive dental services for immigrant adults starting in 2026, although emergency dental services would be maintained. Additionally, clinics serving this population would no longer receive advance payments from the state; instead, they would be reimbursed after services are provided.

With these measures, the state would save an additional $2.4 billion for the 2028-29 fiscal year, according to the governor’s office. In total, the package of cuts could achieve $7.8 billion in savings over the next few years.

Newsom argues that these difficult decisions are necessary in the face of a projected $16 billion drop in tax revenue and a $12 billion deficit. Part of the decline is attributed to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, but Medi-Cal was already facing financial challenges due to rising costs and enrollment.

In March, the administration reported a $6.2 billion deficit in Medi-Cal, forcing it to allocate additional funds to pay providers through June. According to the state Department of Health Care Services, $2.7 billion more than expected was spent to cover immigrants without legal status. In total, the state allocates approximately $8.5 billion a year from the general fund for this population.

Republicans like Senator Roger Niello of Roseville see the cuts as a necessary correction. “We committed to spending on something we couldn’t afford,” he said. “This program started in a time of budgetary prosperity and expanded beyond what was reasonable.”

Newsom, however, defended his plan, saying it will not eliminate existing coverage. “We are not eliminating or cutting those already enrolled. We are just putting a limit on it,” he stated. “No state has done more than California, and no state will continue to do more than us.”

The proposal comes as Congress is considering cuts to the federal Medicaid program. One of the plans would penalize states that cover undocumented immigrants, reducing their federal funding for the program’s expansion. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, that could cost California $3.2 billion in the first year.

Despite the resistance, Newsom insists the state remains committed to immigrants. “We have to make difficult decisions, but we continue to lead the way in protecting our immigrant communities,” he concluded.

— CalMatters reporter Jeanne Kuang contributed to this report.

Correction: This story was updated on May 14 to correct an erroneous state deficit figure.

Mexico mourns young cadets killed in Brooklyn Bridge accident

May 23, 2025

HL_Brooklyn Bridge_5.23.25 — The Cuauhtémoc was on a goodwill tour, attracting many sightseers. One of them took this photo of the ship seconds before its masts hit the bridge. (@Keeyahtay/X) -- : El Cuauhtémoc estaba en una gira de buena voluntad, atrayendo a muchos turistas. Uno de ellos tomó esta foto del barco segundos antes de que sus mástiles chocaran contra el puente.

by the El Reportero wire services

A Mexican Navy training ship on a goodwill tour struck the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on Saturday night, leaving two crew members dead and 22 others injured.

Mexican officials on Sunday identified the two victims of the crash as América Yamileth Sánchez Hernández, 20, from the state of Veracruz, and Adal Jair Maldonado Marcos, 23, from the state of Oaxaca.

Investigators are looking into how the Cuauhtémoc, with three long masts and billowing white sails, moved in the wrong direction before hitting the Brooklyn Bridge. Mexico’s Naval Ministry (Semar) said in a statement that 11 of those injured were in critical condition, while nine others were hospitalized in stable condition.

On Monday, Semar reported that 174 of the 277 people on board the Cuauhtémoc had arrived in Mexico City overnight Sunday.

The commander of the Mexican Navy, Admiral Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles, said in a statement that the uninjured cadets would continue their training and that the investigation into the crash would be carried out “with total transparency and responsibility.”

The body of América Sánchez was transferred to the Naval Academy in her home state of Veracruz on Monday.
Her mother, Rocío Hernández, described the 20-year-old cadet as “an exemplary daughter” who was “a dedicated student” aiming to become a naval engineer.

Rodolfo Hernández, Sánchez’s uncle, told reporters on Sunday that his niece had sent photos showing her in Central Park the day before the accident. “When news of her death came, we broke down; we didn’t have the strength to bear it,” he said.

Friends of Adal Maldonado said he had always dreamed of following in his father’s footsteps and becoming a sailor. Being on board the Cuauhtémoc, also known as “The Knight of the Seas,” had been his greatest wish, they recalled.

Why was the Mexican ship in New York City?

The Cuauhtémoc had set sail on April 6 from Acapulco on a 254-day mission to “exalt the seafaring spirit, strengthen naval education and carry the Mexican people’s message of peace and goodwill to the seas and ports of the world,” according to Semar.

The ship had been docked at New York’s South Street Seaport Museum for five days of public viewing when it left New York’s Pier 17 on Saturday, intending to leave the harbor.

At approximately 8:20 p.m. EST, the ship’s three masts, measuring more than 48 meters, hit the base of the bridge, which has a clearance of 41.1 meters. All three masts collapsed and video footage posted on social media shows some of the crew members dangling from the yards and sails.

The New York Times reported that officials said it appeared the Cuauhtémoc had lost power as it backed away from the pier and was dragged toward the Brooklyn Bridge by the current.
However, several observers present at the scene published photos that appeared to indicate a wake around the tall ship. This prompted speculation that the engine may have been stuck in reverse.

The roles that New York City port procedures and a tugboat operated by McAllister Towing played in the accident are also being examined, but the circumstances are far from clear.

A statement issued by McAllister Towing on Sunday confirmed that one of its vessels “assisted the Cuauhtémoc as it departed Pier 17.”
U.S. Senator for New York Chuck Schumer defended the tug company, telling the New York Times that the tugboat responded after the accident occurred in an effort to assist the Cuauhtémoc. However, according to merchant marine ship captain John Konrad, when docking and undocking in the state of New York, a docking pilot who works for the tugboat company is required to be on board.

On Monday, President Claudia Sheinbaum offered condolences to the two sailors killed and criticized those turning the incident into a political issue. “It is shameful that our adversaries are trying to score political points off of an accident in which two people died,” the president said on Sunday.

The Cuauhtémoc has long held symbolic significance for Mexico. Since its launch in 1982, the tall ship has visited over 60 countries and served as a floating ambassador of Mexican naval tradition. Thousands of cadets have trained aboard the vessel over the decades, including foreign students from allied nations.

In Mexico, scenes of mourning unfolded as flowers, flags, and candles were placed outside naval academies. A national moment of silence was held at military installations across the country on Monday, underscoring the emotional weight of the tragedy. Social media was flooded with tributes to the fallen cadets, including drawings, poems, and videos showing the ship’s past voyages. Many Mexicans expressed pride in the ship’s mission—and heartbreak that it ended in loss.

With reports from The New York Times, BBC, La Jornada and Reforma.

Access to EVs is key to meeting California’s climate goals and can help lower electricity prices

May 22, 2025

PG&E accelerates EV adoption by low-income customers

Oakland, California. Electric vehicles (EVs) are key to meeting California’s climate goals and can help lower customers’ electricity rates, but research shows that owning an EV can be difficult for drivers in low-income communities. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is taking steps to make EV ownership more affordable for low-income customers.

PG&E has already helped more than 13,000 income-qualified customers become EV owners through the Used EV Rebate Program, and thousands more have benefited through incentives to lower the upfront costs of installing charging infrastructure at their homes.

Closing the equity gap to help more low-income drivers access EVs is critical to accelerating EV adoption throughout PG&E’s service area and achieving the goal of serving 3 million EVs by 2030. EVs improve air quality by reducing carbon emissions from transportation. Additionally, PG&E estimates that the next million EVs connected to the grid could lower residential electricity rates by 2% to 3% by spreading the fixed costs of maintenance and operations across more customers.

“We have made great strides to improve EV access and charging infrastructure for all of our customers, even those who may have thought EV ownership was out of reach due to cost. EVs are key to achieving California’s climate goals and also provide a way to lower the price of electricity,” said Lydia Krefta, senior director of Electrification and Decarbonization at PG&E. “Furthermore, customers can manage their EV charging during times of lower energy demand and lower prices, allowing them to charge for as little as $1.88 per gallon of gasoline for customers who receive income-qualified rate discounts, while reducing the burden on the grid,” Krefta added.

We’re making EV ownership more affordable

There are more than 700,000 EVs in PG&E’s service area, representing one in eight EVs in the country. According to recent data, EV sales in California increased for the fourth consecutive year by 2024, representing approximately 25% of total new vehicle sales in the state last year. However, a study by the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation revealed that disadvantaged communities are not keeping pace with the transition to EVs because they often lack access to incentives and charging infrastructure.

PG&E offers a variety of resources, such as rebates, incentives for income-qualified customers, and EV rate plans, that can help lower the total cost of EV ownership, including the initial costs of charger installation and charging.

The Used EV Rebate Program offers a rebate of up to $4,000 for income-qualified customers who purchase or lease a used EV. Since its launch in February 2023, the program has issued more than 13,000 rebates and provided more than $29 million in benefits. Another $50 million in financing is still available for PG&E customers who meet income requirements.

Driven the EV Transition

PG&E has programs that can reduce the cost of installing residential EV chargers to help lower the overall cost of driving an EV.

PG&E’s Residential Charging Solutions pilot program provides customers with a 50% post-purchase rebate for approved Level 2 residential charging equipment that can use existing 240-volt outlets and eliminate the need for costly electrical upgrades. Income-qualified customers can receive a 100% rebate on the equipment purchase price. The pilot program is funded by California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) program.

EV charging managers can help customers save on EV charging costs by scheduling charging during times with lower prices and lower grid demand. The program, currently available to PG&E customers in Santa Clara, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties who meet eligibility requirements, offers a dashboard with personalized information on charging habits, costs, consumption, and battery efficiency. Participants will receive a $75 Tango gift card after participating in the program for a minimum of three months and remaining connected to the platform at least 50% of the time.

In the coming year, PG&E plans to announce two additional EV charging pilot programs with funding approved through California’s LCFS Program.

The Affordable Public Charging pilot program offers a charging credit, via a prepaid debit card, to help income-qualified customers cover part of the cost of EV charging at public charging stations.
The Flexible Electrification Panel and Support pilot program offers incentives for qualifying electrical panel upgrades and other ancillary equipment needed by low-income customers to install EV chargers in their homes.

EV Rates and Additional Resources

PG&E has three rate plans that can help EV drivers lower their electricity costs. With these time-of-use rate plans, customers who charge their EVs during off-peak hours can reduce their overall energy costs.

With PG&E’s EV2-A rate, customers who qualify for monthly discounts through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program and the Family Electricity Rate Assistance Program can charge their EV for the equivalent of $1.88 per gallon of gasoline if they charge between midnight and 3 p.m. The EV Rate Comparison Tool can help customers find the best rate plan for their needs.

“There are real savings opportunities that help lower the cost of EV ownership for customers with limited resources. An income-qualified customer with access to residential charging could save 57% with the CARE program discount and off-peak EV charging rates, compared to the cost of charging with gasoline. A CARE customer who only uses public charging through the future Affordable Public Charging program can save up to 100% over two years,” Krefta said.

We encourage customers who want to explore electric vehicle ownership to check out PG&E’s EV Savings Calculator to search for vehicles, discover incentives, and locate charging stations.

Berlanga Accuses Sheeraz of Avoiding Fight: “We Had to Pressure Him”

May 16, 2025

boxing_Edgar Berlanga_5.16.25 — Edgar Berlanga and Hamzah Sheeraz.

by Tim Compton |

May 16, 2025 – Edgar Berlanga (23-1, 18 KOs) claims Hamzah Sheeraz (21-0-1, 18 KOs) was reluctant to accept their July 12th bout at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens. Berlanga told reporters, “I heard he was backing out… We had to pressure him to take the fight.”

The New York native is aiming for a first-round knockout and sees this fight as a step toward bigger names like Jaime Munguia and a Canelo Álvarez rematch. However, to earn that opportunity, Berlanga likely needs to beat top contenders like Caleb Plant, Christian Mbilli, and Osleys Iglesias—no easy task. Unless promoter Turki Alalshikh fast-tracks the Canelo fight, Berlanga may have to take on those risks.

Addressing criticism from his previous bout with Canelo, Berlanga defended his performance: “They want to say I ran. Are you crazy?” While he didn’t exactly run, many fans felt he played it safe—backpedaling and jabbing while letting Canelo control most of the action. He only pressed forward in the final round, which wasn’t enough to sway the judges or the crowd.

Looking ahead to the Sheeraz fight, Berlanga emphasized the pressure of performing in front of a star-studded audience. “There will be celebs there in the front row,” he said. “I don’t want to get embarrassed in front of 14,000 people.”

Berlanga criticized Sheeraz’s resume, saying he lacked the right step-up fights to prepare for this level. He also questioned Sheeraz’s performance in a February bout against Carlos Adames: “If Adames was in shape, he would’ve stopped him.”

Despite doubts from fans, Berlanga insists he’s evolved. “I’m a vet… I’m ready for all the smoke,” he told Ring Magazine. His lone fight since losing to Canelo was against a rusty, 35-year-old Jonathan González Ortiz. Whether he’s truly improved will be tested when he faces Sheeraz in July.

Invitation to Bid for the Treasure Island Ferry Terminal Enhancements Project

May 16, 2025

The Treasure Island Mobility Management Agency (TIMMA) will receive sealed construction bids for the TREASURE ISLAND FERRY TERMINAL ENHANCEMENTS PROJECT. The Bid Submission Deadline is Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. (PDT). An electronic bidding process has been adopted for this solicitation. Paper bids will not be accepted. Electronic bids shall be submitted through https://www.bidexpress.com. All bidders must register on https://www.bidexpress.com and create Digital ID through Bid Express to submit a bid. It can take up to five (5) business days to process your Digital ID and it is highly recommended that a Digital ID be active 48 hours in advance of submitting an electronic bid. Costs associated with obtaining said Digital ID and submitting a bid using Bid Express shall be the sole responsibility of the bidder. Contract Documents, any addenda, and bid forms will be available from https://www.bidexpress.com/solicitations/41020.

Bids will be opened electronically and read aloud on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. (PDT) at the virtual meeting platform Zoom. Attendees can register by visiting www.sfcta.org/ferry-terminal-opening.

The project consists of construction of transit shelters, located near the main ferry terminal shelter structure; men’s, women’s, and family/all gender restrooms; and associated exterior work on Treasure Island, in the City and County of San Francisco.

The Engineer’s cost estimate is approximately $2,950,000. A Class B General Building Contractor’s license is required and the successful bidder must pay prevailing wages.

The project includes a tage Business Enterprise contract Disadvan goal of 22%.

El Reportero

Family Festival in East Richmond

May 16, 2025

by Magdy Zara

SKYJAM is hosting its regular Family Festival fundraiser to support its early childhood education program for children ages 18 months to 5 years.

Skytown Preschool is a nonprofit preschool and parent cooperative based in Richmond.

SkyJam is a free, family-friendly event where you can meet the Bay Area’s top children’s entertainer, “Buki the Clown,” enjoy live music, and local artists such as the Hawaiian music ensemble, ‘AHMele, from the Oakland Academy of Hawaiian Arts (AHA). You’ll also enjoy the fire truck, bounce houses, and face painting.

This family-friendly festival will take place next Saturday, May 17, starting at 10 a.m., at 5714 Solano Ave, Richmond. For more information, visit: https://www.skytown.org/skyjam

San Francisco Youth Symphony Orchestra in Concert

A masterful concert featuring both classic and new works is planned under the direction of Conductor Wattis Radu Paponiu, director of the San Francisco Youth Symphony Orchestra.

The concert will feature more than 100 talented young artists, the next generation of this renowned musical institution.

The concert will be this Sunday, May 18, in Davies Symphony Hall, located at 201 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, at 2 p.m.

Walk with a Naturalist

Along with Patty Chang, David Kelley, and Shelby Hendricks, you can conduct a scientific investigation based on the observation of Beta Space, which is nothing more than exploring the works of art from the perspective of a naturalist.

The San José Museum of Art invites you to become a marine biologist by immersing yourself in the depths of the sea, learning about the life of the creatures that inhabit this unique ecosystem with this visual and tactile experience designed to connect with what lies beyond the human realm.

By learning more about the natural history of organisms that inhabit the deep sea, visitors will discover ways to connect with and care for these creatures. In this way, the interdisciplinary tour will offer an opportunity to humanize science and reinforce the emotional impact of caring for endangered species.

The event will take place next Sunday, May 18, at 1 p.m., at the San José Museum of Art, located at 110 South Market Street, San José. Tickets to the walk are free with museum admission.

Yoshi’s Dresses Up to Welcome Northgate School

The Northgate High School Jazz Band Competition winners (1st and 2nd place) return to the stage at Yoshi’s Oakland with a dynamic and energetic performance featuring some of the Bay Area’s finest young jazz musicians.

Both ensembles have earned top honors at some of California’s most prestigious jazz festivals, including the Folsom Jazz Festival, the Campana Jazz Festival, the CMEA Festival, the Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, and the CMEA 2025 Jazz Festival.

Northgate High School has been performing at Yoshi’s for over 15 years and now returns

this Tuesday, May 20th at 7:30 p.m., to offer an exceptional evening where the Northgate High School Jazz Bands continue their legacy of excellence on the iconic Yoshi’s stage.

Ticket price is $30, Yoshi’s is located at 510 Embarcadero West, Oakland.

San Francisco Carnival 2025: 47 years of culture, tourism, and local vitality

May 16, 2025

by Marvin Ramírez

San Francisco Carnival celebrates its 47th edition this year on May 24 and 25, establishing itself as the largest and longest-running multicultural celebration in California. With an annual attendance exceeding 400,000, the event transforms the Mission District into an epicenter of music, dance, and art.

This year, the theme “AfroMundo: African Diaspora in the Americas” pays tribute to African heritage in the Americas, highlighting its influence on cultural expressions such as samba, bomba, jazz, and hip-hop.

A Boost for Tourism and the Local Economy

Carnival is not only a cultural celebration but also a significant economic driver for San Francisco. During the event weekend, hotels, restaurants, and local businesses experience a significant increase in revenue. The Mission Merchants Association has noted that Carnival represents a “boost of energy and profits” for area businesses.

In addition, the event attracts visitors from across the country and abroad, resulting in increased tourism and greater visibility for the city. Carnival’s diverse activities and cultural richness offer tourists a unique experience that celebrates San Francisco’s multicultural identity.

Support for Private Enterprise and Local Businesses

Carnival also benefits private enterprise and local entrepreneurs. More than 400 vendors participate in the festival, offering a variety of products ranging from handicrafts to international cuisine. This space provides a platform for small businesses and local artists to showcase and sell their products to a broad and diverse audience.

The recent opening of the Carnival House on Florida Street reinforces this commitment, serving as a cultural center offering events and activities throughout the year.

An inclusive and vibrant celebration

The festival spans 17 blocks of the Mission District, primarily on Harrison Street between 16th and 24th Streets, and features five main stages featuring more than 50 local and international artists. Sunday’s Grand Parade, which begins at 9:30 a.m. at 24th and Bryant Streets, features more than 70 groups representing the cultural heritage of countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Cuba, Peru, and many more.

Admission to the festival is free, and public transportation is recommended due to street closures. For those seeking a more comfortable experience, grandstand seating is available for the parade for $40.

For more information and updates, visit the official website: carnavalsanfrancisco.org.

With reports from the San Francisco Chronicle, Telemundo Área de la Bahía, and Funcheap SF (San Francisco Recreation and Parks).

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