Cargo processing resumes at Cd. Juárez-El Paso bridge

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October 10, 2023

Freight trucks can once again enter the United States via the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA) between Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and El Paso, Texas, after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) resumed cargo processing on Tuesday morning.

The CBP suspended cargo processing at the bridge on Sept. 18 to allow its officers to assist Border Patrol in processing migrants entering the United States between official ports of entry.

Cargo processing closures and increased inspections at several border crossings have caused huge backlogs of goods for export. (Comentario U de C/X)

The CBP announced Monday that the BOTA cargo facility would reopen on Tuesday with what it called a “limited schedule” of 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. However, those hours are the usual operating hours. In an online trade information notice, the CBP said that cargo processing would be reduced from normal operations but didn’t specify how.

The BOTA cargo facility was processing about 500 northbound trucks per day prior to the three-week closure, El Paso Times reported.

Despite the commercial reopening of BOTA, CBP said in a statement that it “continues to encourage members of the trade community to consider other nearby commercial cargo facilities located at the Ports of Ysleta, Marcelino Serna (Tornillo), and Santa Teresa.”

“Hours of operation at Tornillo and Santa Teresa remain extended to ensure the safe and orderly processing of cargo and support the needs of the trade community,” the federal agency said.

The increased inspections and closures at various border crossings have caused long delays in the past weeks. (CBP El Paso/X)

The closure of the BOTA cargo facility and the Texas government’s decision to conduct stringent inspections of trucks entering the Lone Star state at other border crossings between Ciudad Juárez and El Paso have caused long delays for northbound trucks in recent weeks.

Mexico’s National Chamber of Trucking said late last week that goods worth more than US $1.5 billion were held up at the border between Chihuahua and Texas due to the inspections aimed at detecting the illegal entry of migrants and narcotics.

Miriam Kotowski, president of Tecma Transportation Services, a logistics company that regularly uses commercial truck crossings between Ciudad Juárez and El Paso, said that the reopening of the cargo facility at the Bridge of the Americas will help reduce crossing times.

However, she added that inspections conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) at the Ysleta-Zaragoza and Tornillo ports of entry in the El Paso area are “impeding trade and commerce.”

AMLO border crossings — The president discussed migration at the Monday press conference, and also said his government would send a diplomatic note to the U.S. to express opposition to the stringent Texas truck inspections. (MOISÉS PABLO/CUARTOSCURO.COM)

Those inspections have drastically reduced the flow of cross-border cargo truck traffic, Kotowski said.

“These TX DPS enhancements undermine state-of-the-art X-ray inspections and [truck] safety inspections by both” CBP and the U.S. Department of Transportation, she said in a statement.

President López Obrador announced Monday that the government would send a diplomatic note to its United States counterpart to express its opposition to truck inspections being carried out by the Texas government.

The inspections “harm the two nations [and] harm economic activity and the normal movement of people,” he said.

“… It’s the same as the [floating] barriers in the … [Rio Grande], … nothing but publicity stunts, pure politicking. … [Governor Greg Abbott] is not acting responsibly, he’s trying to get a political advantage with these measures, but it will be counterproductive because we’re going to call on our compatriots, our neighbors, our brothers from Texas to not vote for those who act irresponsibly,” López Obrador said.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) said in a statement later on Monday that the Mexican government in its diplomatic note urged the U.S. government to lobby the Texas government “to stop the exhaustive inspections” of cargo trucks at crossings in the El Paso area as well as that between Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, and Del Rio, Texas.

Migrants at the Piedras Negras crossing — Increased arrivals of migrants at crossings such as Piedras Negras-Eagle Pass led the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol to shut down cargo processing at some points of entry. (Cuartoscuro)

The SRE also said that the government raised with its U.S. counterpart “the impact on bilateral trade due to the closure of some points of entry” in the Tijuana-San Diego, Ciudad Juárez-El Paso and Piedras Negras-Eagle Pass areas.

“In the note, the government of Mexico requests the reestablishment of trade flows via the border crossings, which have been interrupted due to the closure of cargo operations at … BOTA since Sept. 18, the closure of the Piedras Negras-Eagle Pass International Bridge I since Sept. 20 and the closure of the pedestrian crossing (PedWest) at the El Chaparral-San Ysidro port of entry since Sept. 14,” the ministry said.

“The government of Mexico recognizes the progress in binational dialogue that has resulted in the partial reoopening of the commercial area of … BOTA from Oct. 10 and reaffirms its commitment to continue working so that operations are completely reestablished,” the SRE said.

With reports from El Paso Times

Be like NASA: Come to Mazatlán for the solar eclipse

By

Dianne Hofner Saphiere

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October 9, 2023

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kevin-kandlbinder-l6vthqFahvc-unsplash (1) — People travel across the planet to experience a solar eclipse because it is so remarkable that it's almost addictive. (Unsplash)

The whole world is talking about the two upcoming solar eclipses, and the first place in the world to view one in totality will be in Mazatlán, Mexico. On April 8, 2024, at 9:46 a.m., the city will plunge into complete darkness for 4 minutes and 27 seconds!

Astronomers worldwide will descend on the port city, including those from NASA, UNAM, France, Japan, Jordan, and the Netherlands. The total eclipse show will begin at 9:51 a.m. and will last nearly three hours. If you’re looking at the calendar, you’ll see this will all occur on a Monday. But trust me — there’s no better way to start your week.

Mazatlán: the perfect spot to experience the solar eclipse. (Dianne Hofner Saphiere)

My family traveled to Nebraska to experience our first total eclipse in August of 2017 and it was life-changing!

We sat in a field of sunflowers on a clear, blue day. As the moon began to shield the sun and the sky started to darken, the insects began buzzing, just like at sunset – even though it was just before noon! The sunflowers started bowing their heads.

As the moon almost completely crossed over the sun, we saw the much-anticipated “diamond ring” – and is so much better in person than in a photo or video! Finally, the world went completely dark, cool and quiet. It is such an eerie sensation at midday!

Looking around, we could see the reds and yellows of sunset 360 degrees around the horizon. The insects went quiet, and the sunflowers faced the soil for the duration of the eclipse. Even our 21-year-old son, who knew what to expect, was gobsmacked by what he saw. After a few minutes, the sun reappeared, and the process reversed itself.

People travel across the planet to experience a solar eclipse because it is so remarkable that it’s almost addictive. Luckily, those of us in this piece of paradise will not have to go far. However, budding “eclipse chasers,” I urge you to make your plans now before lodging sells out. The next total solar eclipse visible from North America won’t be until 2044.

I am a founding member of the Mazatlán Astronomical Society (SAMAZ). While I am very far from an expert, many members of the Society are! In our weekly meetings, members teach people the science of astronomy, how to build telescopes, and how to view eclipses safely. We are also training volunteers to host viewings during both events.

SAMAZ’s annular eclipse event in October will be held at Mazatlán’s lighthouse, said to be the tallest naturally occurring lighthouse in the world. Next April, the Society will host viewings in Mazatlán at the lighthouse, the UNAM campus, and on the historic Olas Altas boardwalk. You can learn more about the society on their Facebook page. While you are in Mazatlán for the eclipse, you can enjoy the incredible fresh seafood, miles of gorgeous beaches, the colonial Centro Histórico with its unique tropical neoclassical architecture, artist galleries, a 7-km oceanside promenade, and the incredible views from its three oceanfront hills, beachside restaurants, bars and high rises.

Another great option is to travel into the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range to view the eclipse under dark skies that are perfect for stargazing. Villagers in the small town (220 inhabitants) of Chirimoyos, 90 minutes from Mazatlán, have flattened out a viewing area they call “Mintaka Observatory.” At 1400 meters above sea level, it provides 360-degree views and over 100 kilometers of visibility.

Their community-directed rural tourism project offers camping space (50 pesos/person) with nearby bathrooms, rentals of rooms in local houses (600 pesos/3-4 people) or complete homes, home-cooked meals starting at 100 pesos, horseback riding for 200 pesos/hour and guides for hiking and birding (150/person for 5 people).

The area is breathtaking and is locally known as a sacred energy vortex. It’s a charming small town where you’ll find pre-hispanic areas, petroglyphs, beekeepers, farmers of ancestral corn and growers of garden flowers. Observatorio La Mintaka has unified the local community and brought in new revenue streams to an area in economic need while connecting residents in meaningful ways with their natural environment.

Near Chirimoyos and just an hour east of Mazatlán is the gorgeous, historic woodworking and mining town of Concordia. Founded in 1565, Concordia is regionally famous for its shaved ice. The beautiful San Sebastián church crowns the charming town square; colorful homes line its streets.

Do not miss the Callejón Nana Chon with its incredible street art, the namesake of a well-known local heroine of the second Franco-Mexican War. Concordia will host eclipse viewings as well. Nearby are hot springs and the Indigenous Mayo town of Jacobo.

Invitation to watch the solar eclipse with the Observatorio Astronómico Mintaka

Safely viewing a solar eclipse

You MUST use eclipse glasses, handheld solar viewers, or solar camera filters; NEVER look directly at the sun during an eclipse!

Ensure your viewers have ISO 12312-2:2015 certification. They should have the manufacturer’s name and address printed somewhere on the product and should not be scratched or damaged. During complete darkness (totality), you may remove the glasses, but as soon as the sun begins to peak out again, put them back on to watch the remainder of the eclipse.

Getting there

Mazatlán: Daily flights from most major Mexican cities.

Concordia: About an hour east from Mazatlán. Take Highway 15 south to Villa Unión and switch to the Highway 40 free road. Public buses are available.

Chirimoyos: About 90 minutes from Mazatlán. Take Highway 15 south to Villa Unión and switch to 40D, the toll road.

Dianne Hofner Saphiere is a photographer and interculturalist who has lived in Mazatlán since 2008. Her photographs can be found under “Thru Di’s Eyes” on FB, IG or her website, www.thrudiseyes.com. She also runs the expat website www.vidamaz.com.

Mexican gymnastics team to be evacuated out of Israel

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MND Staff

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October 9, 2023

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The Mexican rhythmic gymnastics team, which has been in Israel to train for the upcoming Pan American Games, will soon be evacuated with the help of the Mexican government according to a video statement.

The squad had been unable to leave Tel Aviv after the attack in Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas over the weekend. Israel has begun a “complete siege” of the Gaza Strip, where Hamas is based, and continues to battle Hamas fighters on Israeli soil. According to reports, the number of dead was more than 1,500 as of Monday night.

The team posted a video on Sunday alerting friends, family and followers that they are safe in Israel. (Selección Nacional de Gimnasia Rítmica – Conjunto/Facebook)

“Given the seriousness of the situation, flights have been canceled, leaving us without the immediate possibility of returning to our Mexico,” Mexican head coach Blajaith Aguilar Rojas said in an earlier video on Facebook. “Given this dynamic, we make a call and strongly request support from our government so that we can return safely to our home as soon as possible.”

The women gymnasts — who perform floor routines with hoops, balls, clubs, ribbon and rope — are feeling a good deal of “tension and concern,” Aguilar added.

“They are protected in the training center,” pointed out María José Alcalá, president of the Mexican Olympic Committee (COM). The team is preparing for the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, which are scheduled to run from Oct. 18 to Nov. 5. Rhythmic gymnastics will begin Nov. 1.

Officials didn’t disclose the team’s exact location, but said it would continue training in a safe area and leave for Chile, or Mexico, as soon as conditions allow.

The team at a qualifying event for the 2024 Olympic Games. (Selección Nacional de Gimnasia Rítmica – Conjunto/Facebook)

In a message posted on Facebook, the team wrote, “We are fine, in a safe area, somewhat far from the affected cities and we already know all the necessary measures in case of any situation. We thank you all for being attentive and for your messages.”

Aguilar said the team members have been shown how to get to the nearest bomb shelter in case of an incoming missile.

“It is true that we are scared with the situation,” she added. “But people here have shown us the protocols and bunkers that should be used if necessary.”

Tel Aviv has become a popular spot for international gymnasts to train, which is why the Mexican squad and their coaches went there after the 2023 Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships.

In August, the team left for Tel Aviv, where they have been training for the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, which are scheduled to run from Oct. 18 to Nov. 5. (Selección Nacional de Gimnasia Rítmica – Conjunto/Facebook)

A qualification event for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, the championships were held Aug. 23-27 in Valencia, Spain. Mexico placed 14th in all-around.

Alicia Bárcena, Mexico’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, reported that she is communicating with officials at the Mexican Embassy in Israel about the rhythmic gymnastics team and other Mexicans in Israel, including two who were reportedly taken hostage by Hamas on Saturday.

“We are in contact with authorities in Israel and family members to provide follow-up, support and care,” she said.

The gymnasts with the Mexican contingent include Dalia Alcocer, Kimberly Salazar, Adirem Tejeda, Sofia Flores and Julia Gutiérrez.

With reports from Aristegui Noticias, Proceso, El Financiero and Excélsior

What got more (or less) expensive in Mexico in September?

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MND Staff

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October 9, 2023

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daniel-lerman-Mjw-dIbFl-w-unsplash_850 — While the annual headline rate continues to drop, the cost of fruits and vegetables was up 6.75% annually in September, and processed foods, beverages and tobacco were up 7.57%. (Daniel Lerman/Unsplash)

Mexico’s annual headline inflation rate declined for an eighth consecutive month in September, but remains above the central bank’s target.

Annual inflation was 4.45% in September, the national statistics agency INEGI reported Monday.

Inflation chart — This chart shows annual headline inflation rates from June 2022 through the first half of September. (lopezobrador.org.mx)

That rate – the lowest since February 2021 – is 0.19 percentage points lower than the 4.64% rate recorded in August. Month-over-month inflation was 0.44%, INEGI said.

The annual core inflation rate, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, was 5.76% in September, down from 6.08% in August.

Andres Abadia, chief Latin America economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said that the decline in inflation was “thanks to the lagged effect of tighter financial conditions, the impressive MXN rebound in recent months” – although the peso has lost value in October – “and lower raw-material prices.”

INEGI noted that in September last year, annual headline inflation was 8.7%. While inflation has declined every month since February, the headline rate remains above the Bank of Mexico’s target of 3% with tolerance for one point in either direction.

Market stall — In the category of fruits and vegetables, limes saw the steepest price increase between August and September, while chayotes saw the biggest decrease. (Roberto Carlos Roman/Unsplash)

The central bank late last month decided to keep its benchmark interest rate at a record high 11.25% due to persistent inflation and a “very complex” outlook. The bank has said on repeated occasions that “it will be necessary to maintain the reference rate at its current level for an extended period” in order to bring inflation down to its 3% target.

Jason Tuvey, deputy chief emerging markets economist at Capital Economics, said that the latest INEGI data “reinforces” the view that “an easing cycle will not begin until early next year.”

Once rates start to fall, they “will come down slower than the consensus anticipates,” he predicted.

What fueled annual inflation in September?

INEGI data shows that goods in general were 6.2% more expensive last month than in September 2022. Within that category, processed food, beverages and tobacco prices were up 7.57%, while those for non-food goods rose 4.59%.

Fruit and vegetables were 6.75% more expensive in annual terms, while meat prices ticked up 0.33%.

Services were 5.23% more expensive, housing cost 3.58% more and private school fees increased 6.59%.

Energy prices, including those for gasoline and electricity, fell 1.71% compared to September 2022.

Pricey limes, cheap chayotes

Limes in a Mexican supermarket — Inflation is on a downward trend but it’s still far from the Bank of Mexico’s 3% target rate. (ProtoplasmaKid/Wikimedia Commons)

INEGI reported month-over-month increases for a range of individual products and services.

Prices for limes rose 33.79% in September compared to August.
Carrots +25.17%
Tomatoes +10.28%
Primary school fees +6.07%
Sugar +5.71%
Eggs +5.43%
LP gas +2.81%

Price decreases

Prices for chayotes, also known as mirlitons and chokos, declined 27.48% in September compared to August.
Professional services –14.61%
Green tomatoes –12.6%
Oranges –10.86%
Avocados –8.59%
Serrano peppers –6.87%
Bananas –6.32%

With reports from El Financiero, El Economista and Reuters

2 Mexicans reportedly held hostage by Hamas in Gaza

By

MND Staff

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October 9, 2023

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Ilana-Gritzewsky-Orión-Hernández-Radoux. — Israel informed the Mexican government that Ilana Gritzewsky and Orión Hernández Radoux had been taken as hostages. (Images retrieved from X)

Two Mexicans are believed to be among more than 100 people taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during a weekend of violence in Israel, according to authorities.

Foreign Affairs Minister Alicia Bárcena said on X (formerly known as Twitter) that the Mexican Embassy in Israel had informed the government that a Mexican woman and man were “allegedly taken hostage by the Hamas group in Gaza” on Saturday.

Lamento informar que nuestra @EmbaMexIsr, nos ha comunicado que una mexicana y un mexicano han sido presuntamente tomados como rehenes por el grupo Hamás, en Gaza, este sábado. Estamos en contacto con autoridades en Israel y los familiares para dar seguimiento, apoyo y atención.

— Alicia Bárcena (@aliciabarcena) October 8, 2023

They have been identified in media reports as Ilana Gritzewsky and Orión Hernández Radoux.

President López Obrador said on Monday morning that three Mexicans had disappeared during Hamas’ attack on Israel. The third Mexican, David Heiblum, was reported to be alive at midday on Monday.

Gritzewsky and her Israeli partner were captured at the Nir Oz kibbutz near the border with the Gaza Strip, according to her father, Benito Gritzewsky, who spoke to the news website Enlace Judío.

Hernández, originally from Tepotzlán, Morelos, was reportedly at a music festival when he was taken hostage. His German-Israeli girlfriend, named on social media as Shani Houk, was reportedly killed by Hamas operatives. Some 260 bodies were reportedly recovered at a desert site near the Gaza Strip where the Supernova festival was underway when gunmen arrived on Saturday morning.

David Heiblum (L) was also reported among the Mexicans missing in Israel but was confirmed to be alive today by his family. (@MLopezSanMartin/X)

Bárcena said that Mexican authorities were in contact with their Israeli counterparts and the family members of the presumed hostages to monitor the situation and provide support.

According to an Israeli estimate cited by The New York Times, Hamas is holding some 150 hostages in the Gaza Strip. A spokesman for Hamas’s armed wing on Monday threatened to execute a civilian hostage every time an Israeli airstrike hits Gazans “in their homes without warning,” the Times reported.

In another post on X on Sunday, Bárcena said that 500 Mexicans in Israel had registered with Mexican authorities via an “emergency form we opened.”

López Obrador said Monday that about 300 Mexicans of an estimated 5,000 in Israel had sought government assistance to return to Mexico. The president said that one military plane had already departed for Israel and that another will leave on Monday afternoon.

Two military airplanes left for Israel on Monday to repatriate approximately 300 Mexicans who had sought government assistance to return to Mexico. (@laoctavadigital/X)

Asked about the acts of violence committed by Hamas, López Obrador said his government is in favor of peace.

“We believe that violence mustn’t be used. The mandate of our constitution with regard to foreign policy is very clear – no intervention [in the affairs of other countries], self-determination and peaceful solution to disputes. That’s our position, we don’t want war, we don’t want violence,” he said.

More than 1,300 people had been killed in Israel and the Gaza Strip as of midday Monday. About 800 people have been killed in Israel by Hamas members who infiltrated the country and nearly 2,400 have been wounded, according to Israeli authorities.

At least 560 Palestinians have been killed in airstrikes by Israel on the Gaza Strip, according to authorities there. At least 2,900 others have been injured in the retaliatory action taken by Israeli forces.

López Obrador said that the United States should “convene a meeting of all countries” to find a peaceful solution to the conflict and “avoid war.”

The Foreign Affairs Ministry (SRE) said in a statement on Sunday that the government of Mexico “unequivocally condemns the unacceptable attacks against the people of Israel on October 7 by Hamas and other Palestinian organizations in Gaza.”

Mexico's foreign minister Alicia Barcena — The Foreign Affairs Ministry, headed by Alicia Bárcena, condemned “the unacceptable attacks against the people of Israel on October 7 by Hamas and other Palestinian organizations in Gaza.” (Rogelio Morales Ponce/Cuartoscuro)

“Any terrorist act constitutes a threat to international peace and security, which calls for the full cooperation of all states to prevent and punish them. No cause justifies the use of terrorism,” the ministry said.

“Mexico recognizes Israel’s right to legitimate self-defense – which must be governed by the conditions established in international law – while condemning the use of force, regardless of which side uses it, especially when the targets are civilians, in clear violation of international humanitarian law,” it said.

After noting that hundreds of civilians including women and children were killed during an “escalation of violence” over the weekend, the SRE said that “these appalling events should serve as a reminder, once again, of the urgent need to resume negotiations to reach a definitive solution to the conflict in the region.”

“Mexico’s position is clear: Mexico is in favor of a comprehensive, definitive two-state solution to the conflict that addresses Israel’s legitimate security concerns and allows for the consolidation of a politically and economically viable Palestinian State that lives side by side with Israel within secure and internationally recognized borders in accordance with the United Nations resolutions,” the ministry said.

With reports from Milenio, El Financiero and El Economista

Make your home unique with artisanal Mexican Talavera tiles

By

Sandra Gancz Kahan

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October 9, 2023

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UNESCO inscribed the process for making artisanal talavera in Puebla and Tlaxcala in Mexico, and Talavera de la Reina and El Puente del Arzobispo in Spain, on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. (Talavera San Pedro)

Mexican Talavera tile is an old art form that vibrates with its distinctive architectural charm. Let’s explore its history and how its enduring allure can revitalize your home.

Talavera ceramics were brought to Mexico in the late 16th century by Catholic monks who needed tiles for adorning the many churches they were building in the New World. They particularly wanted the Muslim style common in Spain since the 12th century but importing tiles from Spain to Mexico was unfeasible.

Incorporating Talavera tiles into home decor celebrates a centuries-old tradition that sparks fun and creative endeavors. (Talavera Cortés)

The clergy then sought to promote local Mexican production and this prompted the migration of skilled artisans from the city of Talavera de la Reina, in Spain, who settled in Puebla and taught the craft to Mexican workers.

As the practice of beautifying convents and churches grew, this custom became widespread among those who had the purchasing power to decorate their homes with these precious tiles. Puebla’s abundant clay resources, coupled with soaring demand, transformed its Talavera production into a resounding success, and the burgeoning community of potters extended to the neighboring state of Tlaxcala.

Acknowledging this surge, the viceroy established regulations to ensure the industry’s quality, which formalized this art form, and appointed the city of Puebla as the preeminent pottery center in New Spain.

This secured the tradition for a long time but when Mexico gained independence in 1821, the viceroy’s ordinances became obsolete. Some manufacturers, eager to meet high demand, shifted towards mass production. Until the 1990s, when a conservation effort led to the creation of a Mexican Talavera Regulatory Council and earned a Denomination of Origin status to protect the authenticity of the Talavera pieces made with the original 16th-century methods in the states of Puebla and Tlaxcala.

Furthermore, in 2019, UNESCO inscribed the process for making artisanal Talavera in Puebla and Tlaxcala in Mexico and Talavera de la Reina and El Puente del Arzobispo in Spain on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A testament to the enduring legacy of this art form on both sides of the Atlantic.

Authentic Talavera tiles are known for their intricate hand-painted designs, vibrant colors, and milky-white glaze. These captivating designs often feature floral motifs, geometric patterns, and scenes inspired by nature and mythology. The painted patterns are distinguished by a tactile quality, rising slightly above the ceramic base.

In its early days, designs over an ivory white background were only painted in cobalt blue, as it was the most expensive pigment, thus contributing both quality and prestige. The use of Talavera tiles was such a status symbol for families and churches that people used to say that not aspiring to build a house covered in tiles amounts to not aspiring much in life.

The color palette has evolved but only allows six official colors: blue, yellow, black, green, orange, and mauve. Yellow is created from antimony, blue is made from cobalt oxide, orange comes from hematite, copper produces green, and the enamel top coat contains tin and lead, resulting in Talavera’s famous endurance. Each Talavera item is fired once to harden the clay and then again after painting to develop and set the colors.

When shopping for authentic pieces, look for these signs: a portion of the bottom surface is always left unglazed to expose the red terracotta. It is there where you will find the handpainted manufacturer logo, artist initials, factory location, and the official certification hologram.

Incorporating Talavera tiles into home decor celebrates a centuries-old tradition that sparks fun and creative endeavors. When shopping for these tiles, you’ll be amazed at the hundreds of choices available. Layout your design carefully, considering both color coordination and pattern selection. You can mix and match tiles to create a customized look that suits your style.

You can mix and match tiles to create a customized look that suits your style. (Azulejos Coloniales)

Some ideas for how to incorporate the beauty of Talavera tiles into your home decor:

Kitchen Longevity: Transform your kitchen into a vibrant and inviting space by using Talavera tiles as a colorful backsplash, countertop, or kitchen island. These sturdy tiles are famous for never losing their shine.
Bathroom Accents: Add the vibrant flair of Mexican artistry to your bathroom by using Talavera tiles on countertops, mirror frames and shower walls. Talavera sinks also make stunning accent pieces.
Patio Oasis: Elevate your outdoor area by covering swimming pools, fountains, walls, tables and planters with Talavera tiles. Their vibrant colors and patterns will create a gorgeous backdrop for your gatherings.
Staircases and Floors: Make a striking statement using Talavera tiles on stair risers or as a border along floors, creating an elegant and visually appealing transition.

Talavera tiles add a distinctively Mexican touch to your home and celebrate a centuries-old tradition. These tough, shiny tiles are a piece of history, a testament to craftsmanship, and a vibrant expression of artistry that can elevate the ambiance of any space. Whether you opt for a subtle accent or a bold statement, Talavera tiles will brighten your home with unique and enduring charm.

Sandra is a Mexican writer and translator based in San Miguel de Allende who specializes in mental health and humanitarian aid. She believes in the power of language to foster compassion and understanding across cultures. She can be reached at: [email protected]

Drought intensifies across Mexico, impacts agricultural production

By

Cat Rainsford

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October 9, 2023

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shutterstock_1990362278 J.J. Gouin — Three-quarters of Mexico is now in drought as the country approaches the dry season from December through April. (Shutterstock)

Three-quarters of Mexico is now in drought, causing failing harvests and cattle deaths across the north of the country.

According to Mexico’s Drought Monitor, which is updated every two weeks by the National Meteorological Service (SMN), 74.96% of the national territory was in drought on Sep. 30, up 7.88 percentage points from the 67.08% registered on Sep. 15.

This compares to only 12.66% of the country affected by drought on the same date in 2022, and 28.04% in 2021.

Another 13.92% of the country was not in drought, but was considered “abnormally dry.” Only 11.12% of the country was unaffected by water shortages, notably the Baja California peninsula.

Even more alarmingly, 48 municipalities (1.84% of Mexico) entered “exceptional drought” conditions in the second half of September – the highest level of drought on the SMN’s scale. This included nearly a quarter of the state of Durango, and some areas of Hidalgo, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí and Veracruz.

These areas were already suffering severe effects from water shortages. In August, the Regional Livestock Union of Durango (UGRD) reported that 18,000 cattle had died due to the water crisis, while severe impacts on the livestock industry were also reported in Veracruz.

Corn farmers in Chilpancingo report that their harvest is down 50% this year due to low levels of rainfall in Guerrero state. (Dassaev Téllez Adame/Cuartoscuro)

In Querétaro, dams are at extremely low levels, with four of the state’s seven reservoirs now totally empty and none at more than 30% capacity.

These impacts are not limited to the municipalities facing extraordinary drought. In Jalisco, which produces 20% of Mexico’s milk supply, farmers are also seeing their animals die due to water shortages.

“We are experiencing a tremendous crisis,” said Adalberto Velasco Antillón, president of the Regional Livestock Union of Jalisco. “Thousands and thousands of cattle have died due to the drought problem.”

Meanwhile, water shortages are causing crop failures across northern states like Sinaloa, Sonora and Tamaulipas. Last week, the Agricultural Markets Consulting Group (GCMA) predicted that Sinaloa, Mexico’s main corn-producing state, would see a 50% reduction in the harvest for the coming autumn-winter season – from 5.5 million tonnes to between 2 and 2.5 million tonnes.

Avocado producers claim that the drought has exacerbated the extortion payments required by organized crime groups in harvest regions of Michoacán. (Juan José Estrada Serafín/Cuartoscuro)

Significant reductions in yields have already been seen in regions such as Chihuahua, Durango, Zacatecas, the Bajío and the Gulf. The Chihuahua Livestock Association has warned of imminent food shortages and urged the government to support the agricultural sector.

Luis Fernando Haro, director of the National Agricultural Council (CNA) also warned of a drop in production, and criticized the federal budget for eliminating funding for modernizing irrigation systems.

He added that problems caused by the drought are being exacerbated by the collection of extortion payments by organized crime groups that control agricultural production in some regions of the country.

In particular, he pointed to the avocado-growing regions of Michoacán, which currently has 70% of its territory in extreme drought, and suffers from high levels of control by organized crime.

With reports from El Economista and Código 13

Framing Mexico: The magic of Oaxacan mole

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Mirja Vogel and Gordon Cole-Schmidt

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October 9, 2023

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The famous ‘seven moles’ being prepared in the family-run restaurant Los Pacos in Oaxaca (Photo: Mirja Vogel)

Three generations of the Canseco family stand guard over giant copper cauldrons of dark sauce sizzling in Oaxaca’s Los Pacos restaurant production kitchen.

The aroma is otherworldly. Combining over 80 ingredients, including chiles, spices, and nuts bubbling in large pots, produces a mouth-watering scent.

Gabriel Canseco and his mother, Laura, are on duty. (Photo: Mirja Vogel)

The infinitely complex Mexican sauce, slowly cooking under the guidance of the mother-son team, Laura Canseco and Gabriel Canseco, is mole. But to call it a ‘sauce’ seems to do the sticky, exotic marinade a disservice.

Mole is a stew-like liquid made by grinding various ingredients, including chiles, pulses, and vegetables, and combining the mixture with water, a stock-like juice and a thickener like nuts, seeds, or bread.

From here, interpretation, experience, and creativity become the main ingredients in creating different variations of mole.

It is one of the most essential elements of Mexican gastronomy, and Oaxaca is known colloquially as the ‘Land of the Seven Moles.’

Laura grinds a variety of ingredients into the mix. (Photo: Mirja Vogel)

At Los Pacos, mole recipes are a closely guarded secret known only by four family members. Seven different varieties ranging from “verde” (green), “coloradito” (red colored), and the highly-revered “mole negro” (black mole) are produced here. Other types are paired to match the flavors of bases, including beef, pork, and vegetables.

Laura, the kitchen’s Head Chef, tells us: “There are thousands of mole recipes, but you won’t find ours anywhere. These are the flavors of our family, and they will stay that way. For the last 38 years, we have been preparing and serving seven different types of mole. I learned all the recipes from my mother, Maria, who started the restaurant with her husband in 1986. Back then, it was just a few tables in our front garden.”

The family’s recipes were an instant hit with locals.

When Laura turned 20, she began working as a chef, and fourteen years and two children later, she opened the doors to the modern-day, renovated Los Pacos.

The mole is almost ready. (Photo: Mirja Vogel)

For the Canseco family, mole began as an art that evolved through years of tasting and experimentation. Today, the production is closer to a science.

“Our mole has played a big role in keeping the family closely together,” Maria’s grandson, Gabriel, tells us, and continues, “No Sunday goes by without friends joining the family table to catch up over food and wine. It brings us all closer.”

Jorge Vallejo, Head Chef of Mexico City’s Quintonil, awarded the best restaurant in Mexico this year, said mole has “endless possibilities… and it’s still evolving.”

María, or as she is affectionately known, ‘Coco’ at the head of the family table. (Photo: Mirja Vogel)

After watching the spellbinding sorcery needed to make hundreds of kilos of mole, it’s hard to disagree with Vallejo. There is a magic to it, and part of that comes from its ancient origins.

From watching the family’s hands work together on each step of the production and the joy on the faces of family and guests alike, mole’s reputation is safe.

Mirja Vogel is a Oaxaca-based international photographer. Gordon Cole-Schmidt is a freelance journalist and editor.

Tropical Storms Max and Lidia bring heavy rains to Pacific coast

By

MND Staff

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October 9, 2023

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619171_Baja California-Tormenta Lidia-3_impreso_ GABRIEL LARIOS HEREDIA_cuartoscuro — A hurricane warning is in effect between Playa Pérula, Jalisco, and Mazatlán, Sinaloa. (Gabriel Larios Heredia/Cuartoscuro)

Tropical Storm Max made landfall on the Pacific coast of Mexico on Monday, bringing torrential rain to Guerrero and Michoacán.

Max was located 31 miles (50 kilometers) south-southeast of Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, at 12 p.m. Mexico City time, according to the United States National Hurricane Center (NHC).

Tropical Storms Max and Lidia will make landfall within 24 hours of each other, bringing storms to the Pacific coast between Acapulco and Mazatlán. (zoom.earth)

A tropical storm warning is in effect between Acapulco, Guerrero, and Punta San Telmo, Michoacán.

The NHC said that the storm had maximum sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h) and was strengthening.

“Max is moving toward the north-northeast near 5 mph (7 km/h) and this motion is expected to continue through tomorrow,” the Florida-based agency said.

“Rapid weakening is expected as Max moves inland, with the storm expected to dissipate over Mexico on Tuesday,” the NHC said.

Acapulco authorities began relocating residents on Sunday due to heavy flooding. (@AcapulcoGob/X)

Mexico’s National Meteorological Service (SMN) said in a statement that Max would bring torrential rain of 150-250 millimeters to Guerrero and Michoacán on Monday. “Intense” rain of 75-150 mm is expected in Colima and Oaxaca, while very heavy rain of 50-75 mm is forecast in Morelos and Puebla.

The NHC said that rains in Guerrero, Michoacán, and the coastal sections of western Oaxaca “will likely produce flash and urban flooding, along with possible mudslides in areas of higher terrain near the coast.”

The center also warned of “life-threatening surf and rip current conditions” off the southern coast of Mexico.

Authorities in Guerrero announced that classes at all schools in the state were suspended on Monday.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Lidia was 525 kilometers south-southwest of the southern tip of Baja California at 9 a.m., according to the NHC. Lidia is forecast to become a hurricane before making landfall in mainland Mexico on Tuesday night.

A hurricane warning is in effect between Playa Pérula, Jalisco, and Mazatlán, Sinaloa, an area that includes the entire coast of Nayarit. A hurricane warning is also in effect for the Islas Marías, an archipelago of four islands off the coast of Nayarit.

The forecast path of Tropical Storm Lidia, which is expected to become a hurricane by Tuesday. (@InfoMeteoro/X)

With maximum sustained winds of 100 km/h, Lidia is “moving toward the northeast near 6 mph (9 km/h),” the NHC said.

“… On the forecast track, the center of Lidia should approach Las Islas Marías on Tuesday, and move inland over west-central Mexico Tuesday night. … Strengthening is forecast later today and Tuesday, and Lidia is expected to be a hurricane when it approaches Las Islas Marías and the coast of west-central Mexico.”

A tropical storm warning is in effect between Escuinapa and Bahía de Tempehuaya in Sinaloa, and between Manzanillo, Colima, and Playa Pérula.

Lidia is forecast to bring intense rains to Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, Durango, Nayarit and Jalisco, the SMN said.

The NHC said the storm is expected to produce rainfall of 10 to 20 centimeters (4-8 inches) with local maximums of 30 cm (12 inches) “through Wednesday across the state of Nayarit, southern portions of the state of Sinaloa and coastal portions of the state of Jalisco.

“… These rains will likely produce flash and urban flooding, along with possible mudslides in areas of higher terrain near the coast.”

Flash and urban flooding is forecast for Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, Durango, Nayarit and Jalisco early this week. (Protección Civil Sinaloa)

The NHC also said that a storm surge is expected to produce “significant coastal flooding near and to the south of where the center [of Lidia] makes landfall.”

“Near the coast, the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves,” the agency said.

Authorities in Nayarit and Baja California Sur canceled classes on Monday, although the full force of Lidia isn’t expected until Tuesday.

Lidia is the 12th named storm of the 2023 Pacific hurricane season, while Max is the 13th. The season officially began on May 15 and runs through Nov. 30.

Mexico News Daily

Oaxaca quake felt in CDMX caused minor damages

By

Cat Rainsford

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October 9, 2023

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F70MFqcWgAAO-p0 — The earthquake was felt throughout the Isthmus of Tehuantepec and the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, with tremors reported as far as Mexico City. (@PCMunOax/X)

An earthquake in Oaxaca on Friday night was felt all the way in Mexico City, but fortunately caused no casualties and only minimal damage in the coastal state.

The 6.0-magnitude earthquake happened just after 11 p.m. on Friday, with an epicenter 13 kilometers (8 miles) northwest of Matias Romero, in the state of Oaxaca. It was felt most strongly in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec and the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, including the state capital, located 339 kilometers (210 miles) west of the epicenter.

The earthquake triggered Mexico City’s seismic alert system, briefly interrupting a Friday night out for “capitalinos.” (Rogelio Morales/Cuartoscuro)

“Civil protection protocols have been activated and our staff are reviewing the possible effects throughout the state,” Governor Salomón Jara told residents. “We ask you to remain calm and alert to official instructions.”

According to preliminary reports, the quake caused minor damage to roads, churches and markets in the region. This included landslides and rockfalls on the road between the state capital and the epicenter; damage to the capital’s 20 de Noviembre market; and the collapse of an awning in the church of San Sebastián Tutla.

The historic center of Oaxaca city was plunged into blackout, and locals shared photos of damage on social media, including collapsed traffic lights and cracks in the Tlalixtac bridge. Aftershocks were also felt in various regions of Chiapas.

As the quake hit, alarms operated by the Mexican Seismic Alert System (SASMEX) sounded in Mexico City. This triggered emergency protocols including safety reviews of the transport and water systems, hospitals being put on alert, and helicopter patrols.

Although tremors of varying strengths were felt in some parts of CDMX, no structural damage or serious injuries were reported.

With reports from El Universal and Infobae