The Panama Posse rally, now in its third year, is set to begin on December 5 at Marina Puerto de la Navidad in Mexico and conclude on May 30, 2020, at Marina Vista Mar in Panama. The event has seen growth from 83 boats in its inaugural year to an expected 150 boats this year, ranging from 27 to 225 feet in length. Participants, who have historically hailed from 15 different countries, are anticipated to spend around $6 million during their journey. The rally offers numerous benefits, including safety, security, marina discounts, verified anchorages, assistance with customs and immigration, cultural excursions, and social events. Prior to the rally, informational events will take place in San Diego, California. More details can be found on the Panama Posse's website.

The article discusses the protests that took place during the 2020 Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Milwaukee, which were initially planned to be large but were scaled down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus of the protests shifted from the Democratic Party to issues of police violence and racial injustice, particularly in the wake of nationwide protests. The article highlights the actions of various groups and individuals, including the Coalition to March on the DNC, the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, and Students for a Democratic Society. It also mentions local issues with the Milwaukee Police Department, the Wauwatosa Police Department, and the case of Officer Joseph Mensah. The protests aimed to draw attention to local and national issues of police accountability and racial inequality, rather than directly engaging with the DNC.

Mexico City is gearing up for the Day of the Dead celebrations with various events and exhibitions. The Emilio “El Indio” Fernández House Museum will display a large altar dedicated to Mexican film directors, open from October 31 to the first three weekends in November. The Zócalo will feature the 'Altar of altars' exhibition, showcasing four different regional ofrendas and a light and sound show, from October 27 to November 11. The Anahuacalli Museum will host the Cacao For Everyone Festival with free entry, while the Dolores Olmedo Museum presents an ofrenda to the builders of Mexico City, open until December 29. San Andrés Míxquic offers a traditional Day of the Dead celebration starting on November 1, with candle lighting and mariachi performances.

Daylight saving time is set to end in most parts of Mexico at 2:00am on Sunday, with clocks moving back one hour. However, the states of Sonora and Quintana Roo, along with 33 municipalities along the northern border, will not participate in this change. These municipalities will instead follow the United States' daylight saving time schedule, adjusting their clocks on the first Sunday in November. The article lists the specific municipalities in Baja California, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas that are exempt from the upcoming time change.

Arturo García Velázquez, the mayor of San Felipe Jalapa de Díaz in Oaxaca, Mexico, was arrested for his alleged involvement in over a dozen cases of forced disappearance. During a raid on his house, authorities found him with illegal weapons and ammunition. The operation, which involved 100 state police and 120 National Guard troops, also led to the arrest of nine other individuals, including two police officers. This incident follows the recent arrest of another Oaxaca mayor, Ramiro López of San Marcial Ozolotepec, who was charged in connection with a triple homicide.

The Santa Ana winds have exacerbated wildfires in northern Baja California, leading to over 100 fires in Tijuana, with 19 being forest fires and three considered major. The fires have destroyed homes and prompted school closures in Tijuana, Playas de Rosarito, and Tecate. The Tijuana-Ensenada highway was closed by Federal Police due to the fires. No injuries have been reported, but the Tijuana Civil Protection agency has issued a statement requesting the suspension of classes due to safety concerns from the fires and poor air quality.

Ricardo Sheffield, the head of Mexico's consumer protection agency Profeco, has expressed challenges in conducting inspections of liquid petroleum gas (LP gas) vendors. He reported that each week, a few vendors refuse to allow inspections despite it being mandatory. Sheffield warned that the agency would increase its inspections from two to 25 a week and is prepared to use public force if vendors do not comply. The agency's inspections include checking scales and propane gas tanks. From January to October, 96 vendors were fined a total of 38.6 million pesos for refusing inspections. Sheffield emphasized the importance of these inspections due to the prevalence of issues with LP gas, which is used in seven out of 10 Mexican homes.

Nine men, identified as members of the Rojos crime gang, were found dead in Guerrero, Mexico, following a confrontation with a rival gang. The incident occurred in Zitlala, where the Rojos have been in conflict with Los Ardillos gang for control of the area. The police discovered the bodies along with shell casings from AK-47 and AR-15 rifles. The leader of the Rojos, Zenen “El Chaparro” Nava Sánchez, was arrested last August. The ongoing gang war in Guerrero has resulted in over 1,000 deaths and 300 disappearances. This event follows a recent shootout in Guerrero where one soldier and 14 suspects were killed.

The National Movement for Security and Justice (Monseju) has raised concerns about the welfare of police officers in Oaxaca, Mexico. The association's representative, Aquiles Cornelio Cruz Ramales, highlighted the plight of aging officers who are unable to retire due to insufficient pensions, which can be less than 5,000 pesos a month after over 40 years of service. Monseju has addressed a letter to President López Obrador, detailing the mistreatment of officers and the need for better retirement provisions. Despite the hardships, Cruz assured that there are no plans for a strike or protest that would disrupt public services. Instead, Monseju seeks a dialogue with decision-makers to address these issues, prompted by the lack of response from local authorities.

Julio Manuel Rodríguez Castro, a 63-year-old cyclist, tragically died after falling into an unmarked sinkhole in Hermosillo, Sonora. The incident occurred on October 14, but his body was only recovered on Monday following an international search effort. Despite the sinkhole being reported 17 days prior to the accident, it was inadequately marked, leading to the fatal event. Local rescue workers, aided by teams from Mexico City and Phoenix, Arizona, located Rodríguez's body using a specialized camera. An autopsy confirmed that he drowned. The search also revealed significant pipe deterioration, raising concerns about potential future sinkholes in the area.

Mexico and the United States have solidified an agreement to combat the illegal trafficking of firearms across their borders. The initiative, named Operation 'Frozen', aims to halt the illicit flow of guns. The agreement was reinforced by discussions between U.S. and Mexican officials, including Security Secretary Alfonso Durazo, Foreign Affairs Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Christopher Landau. The plan was also a topic of a phone call between President López Obrador of Mexico and President Donald Trump of the United States. The two nations will review the operation's progress every 15 days. Ambassador Landau emphasized the need to streamline the process by reducing bureaucratic involvement from multiple government agencies.

Eduardo Arturo Bailleres Mendoza, the warden of Aguarato prison in Culiacán, Sinaloa, has been suspended following the escape of 55 inmates amid a wave of violence linked to the Sinaloa Cartel. The escape occurred during a riot where inmates seized weapons from guards. This incident took place during an attempted arrest of cartel leader Ovidio Guzmán, and it's unclear if there was a direct connection between the citywide attacks by the cartel and the prison break. Six escapees have been recaptured, and four surrendered voluntarily. Bailleres, who had been in charge for 11 months, was the eighth warden to leave the position since January 2017. His dismissal led to protests by about 200 people, mainly family members of inmates, who demanded his reinstatement, citing his accommodating nature towards visitors' needs.

President López Obrador of Mexico and U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to collaborate on combating arms trafficking. Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard announced the use of technology such as advanced lasers, X-rays, and metal detectors at border crossings to prevent the flow of weapons into Mexico and drugs into the U.S. A binational working group, including Mexico's security cabinet, U.S. representatives, Ambassador Christopher Landau, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, will oversee the initiative. The group is set to meet next week. This decision follows recent violent clashes in Culiacán, Sinaloa, where the Sinaloa Cartel used military-grade weapons against security forces.

A Walmart store in Culiacán, Sinaloa, became a shelter for shoppers during a violent clash between the Sinaloa Cartel and security forces. The store provided necessities such as food, blankets, and a place to sleep for those who were trapped inside due to the shooting. A Facebook user expressed gratitude for the store's support during the incident. Walmart has announced plans to gradually reopen its stores in Culiacán, with four out of 24 stores remaining closed as of Friday afternoon following the conflict.

Lawyers José Luis González Meza and Juan Pablo Badillo Soto, representing the family of Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán, expressed gratitude towards the Mexican government and President López Obrador for the release of El Chapo's son, Ovidio Guzmán, after his brief detention during a violent confrontation in Culiacán. The lawyers claimed Ovidio was arrested and mistreated but was released due to insufficient evidence, a decision they say was made with 'good judgement' by President López Obrador. They also refuted claims that the Guzmán family's associates were behind the attacks on security forces. President López Obrador confirmed he approved the release to prevent further violence. The U.S. Justice Department has accused Ovidio and his brother of drug trafficking from 2008 to 2018.

CowParade, the international public art event featuring colorful fiberglass cows, is set to return to Mexico City in April next year, marking its first appearance since 2005. The event invites artists to decorate cow sculptures, which are later auctioned off for charity. Since its inception in 1999, CowParade has visited 79 cities and raised over $30 million through auctions. The upcoming event will start on Paseo de la Reforma and move through various boroughs before concluding with an auction at the Papalote Children’s Museum. Artists can submit their proposals from October 17 until December 16 by registering on the official website.

Passengers at Miguel Hidalgo International Airport in Guadalajara, managed by Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico, are experiencing a mosquito infestation. Despite claims by the airport's corporate affairs director, Aurora Adame, that mosquito numbers are not above normal, passengers are concerned and suggest that warnings should be issued. The airport has been fighting the infestation for years and reported a 95% reduction in mosquito numbers in July. Meanwhile, the University of Guadalajara is facing dengue fever cases, with 86 confirmed instances affecting students, teachers, and administrators. Jalisco, where Guadalajara is located, has the second-highest number of dengue cases in Mexico, with 5,704 confirmed cases and 13 deaths, with an additional 48 deaths under investigation.

Two armed individuals robbed 30 students in a classroom at the Jaime Sabines secondary school in Cacahoatán, Chiapas. The incident occurred during class time when the men entered the room, and the teacher, after a moment of panic, advised the students not to resist. The robbers took cell phones, other personal items, and the teacher's computer before escaping on a motorcycle. The school, situated in the Álvaro Obregón neighborhood near the Pacific coast, has 26 teachers and serves 420 students.

Carlos Slim, a prominent businessman and UNAM alumnus, has announced that the Carlos Slim Foundation will be donating a biodiversity pavilion to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). The pavilion, which will cost 200 million pesos, is to be a three-story museum with the capacity to exhibit 300,000 species across 12 rooms. One room will focus on the origins of life and another on Mexico's megadiversity. The pavilion will also include a digital library and will be situated near the University Contemporary Art Museum, incorporating part of UNAM’s Biology Institute. The initiative is part of Slim's ongoing support for education, particularly for students with limited resources through the UNAM Foundation.

Gerardo Rosas Azamar, the police chief of Acapulco, resigned after seven months in office due to ongoing crime and violence in the city. His resignation was confirmed by Mayor Adela Román Ocampo. The resignation followed a series of violent incidents, including the murder of two bus drivers and the kidnapping of two others, which were allegedly carried out by local gangs Los Capuchinos and Los Viruz. The violence led to a temporary suspension of public transit services. Rosas, who plans to return to his previous position in the navy, also faced protests from police officers demanding better pay and working conditions during his tenure.

Mexico City police have arrested a 27-year-old man for masturbating on the Metro and ejaculating on the legs of two women. The incident occurred shortly after the launch of a campaign to combat sexual harassment on public transit. The man was apprehended after the two victims, aged 38 and 19, reported him to the police at the Normal station on Line 2. He was charged and taken to a special prosecutor for sexual crimes. The city's police have been actively working to reduce violence and harassment on public transit, including monitoring women-only spaces and placing officers on platforms. Reports of aggression can be made on the website comodenunciar.cdmx.gob.mx.

The production team of 'Terminator: Dark Fate' chose Madrid over Mexico City as their filming location due to security concerns, specifically citing the 2017 murder of Carlos Muñoz Portal, a location scout for Netflix's 'Narcos'. Director Tim Miller mentioned budget issues as well, noting that moving the crew from Budapest to Mexico would have been costlier. To adapt Madrid for the film, set designers made local alterations such as repainting a mechanic's shop and modifying cars to resemble Mexican taxis. The film, set to release on November 1, is a sequel to 'Terminator 2: Judgement Day' and brings back stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Linda Hamilton, alongside Mexican actor Diego Boneta.

The Mexico City Formula 1 Grand Prix has sold out for the fifth consecutive year, with the event scheduled for October 25-27 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. Federico González Compeán, the general manager of the race, expressed his excitement about the Mexican public's growing interest in motorsports. Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas are among the top-ranked drivers, with Sergio Pérez being the highest-ranked Mexican driver. Despite concerns earlier in the year about the race's future due to lack of government funding, an agreement was reached with Grupo CIE to continue hosting the Grand Prix until 2022, albeit under a new name starting in 2020. The government's previous financial contribution has been reallocated to the Maya Train project, and private-sector funding has taken over.

Students from the Vasco de Quiroga teacher training college in Tiripetío, Michoacán, are accused of stealing merchandise from hijacked trucks during roadblocks. The state Attorney General's office is investigating the theft of goods from 28 vehicles on the Morelia-Pátzcuaro highway. Companies such as PepsiCo, Bimbo, and 90.com have filed criminal charges. The stolen goods are valued at half a million pesos. The students' actions were part of a protest demanding better scholarships and automatic job placement. Despite releasing some vehicles, the students continue to hold many trucks and buses.

A caravan of 3,000 migrants, predominantly Haitians and Cubans, was intercepted by the Mexican National Guard and immigration authorities 14 hours after departing from Tapachula, Chiapas, with the intent of reaching Mexico City. The migrants had been waiting for up to six months for their immigration status to be regularized to allow them to travel to the United States. However, the Mexican government's policy has eliminated the permit for free passage, leading to the interception of the caravan in Tuzantán by 300 National Guardsmen. The migrants were returned to the Siglo XXI migrants' center in Tapachula without any confrontations.

The community police in Guerrero, Mexico, are planning an operation against the Cartel del Sur, the group allegedly behind the recent attack on the army that resulted in the deaths of three soldiers. The incident took place in Balzamar, near properties owned by the cartel's leader, Isaac Navarrete, also known as 'El Señor de la I.' Salvador Alanís, a community police spokesperson, explained that the attack happened as soldiers were destroying poppy fields. The community police's operation has been postponed due to increased military and law enforcement presence following the attack. Despite the delay, the community police, who have set up roadblocks and consider themselves government allies, are determined to proceed with their plans to pacify the region by targeting the cartel's control over 24 communities.

Mexico City is planning to invest approximately 4 billion pesos to construct an elevated trolleybus system aimed at improving mobility in the Iztapalapa borough and reducing congestion on Line A of the Metro. The trolleybus will connect the Metro stops of Constitución de 1917 and Santa Marta, benefiting up to 160,000 people. The route will be eight kilometers long with 35 electric buses operating at a maximum speed of 35 km/h. Mobility Secretary Andrés Lajous Loaeza and Projects and Services Secretary Jesús Esteva Medina provided details on the project, including its benefits and the upcoming bidding process. Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum discussed the integration with other transportation initiatives and potential agreements with local bus drivers.

A group of nearly 2,000 undocumented migrants from Central America, Cuba, and Haiti departed Tapachula, Chiapas, on a journey to Mexico City to seek assistance from President López Obrador. The migrants, who had been waiting for up to six months for the National Immigration Institute to process their immigration status, are unable to travel to the U.S. border due to Mexico's agreement with the U.S. to restrict the movement of undocumented migrants. Human rights activist Luis García Villagrán is among those seeking to address the migrants' plight with the president. The caravan was monitored by Federal Police and had medical support. Separately, a boating accident off Tonalá, Chiapas, resulted in the death of two migrants and two others missing.

Students from the Vasco de Quiroga teacher training college in Tiripetío, Michoacán, hijacked at least 10 vehicles on the Morelia-Pátzcuaro highway to protest for better funding for their school. Armed with machetes and sticks, they blocked the highway and forced passengers off the buses. The students, who also demanded scholarships and automatic job placement after graduation, clashed with state police who attempted to intervene. Similar incidents occurred in México state and Puebla, with the CNTE teachers’ union allegedly behind these actions.

The home of Guaymas Mayor Sara Valle Dessens was attacked with gunfire on Thursday afternoon, with over a hundred rounds shot at the property. The incident took place when no one was at home, resulting in no injuries but causing damage to the house and a vehicle. Mayor Valle, who has received threats and does not often visit the house, was not present. The attack is part of a surge in violence in Guaymas, which has seen multiple police officers killed since October 2018. The violence is attributed to a feud between factions of the Sinaloa Cartel. Security forces are currently searching for the attackers.

The 2019 edition of Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants featured eleven Mexican restaurants, with the announcement made at a ceremony in Buenos Aires. The list is compiled from a poll of 252 Latin American cuisine experts. Enrique Olvera's Pujol in Mexico City ranked highest among Mexican entries, placing third. Other notable mentions include Jorge Vallejo’s Quintonil and Paco Ruano’s Alcalde, which won the 'Highest Climber Award'. Both Mexico and Peru had eleven restaurants each on the list, while Lima's Maido took the top spot. Additionally, Luis Robledo of Tout Chocolat in Mexico City was named the best pastry chef in Latin America.

Spanish company Iberdrola and Mexico's Grupo Alquimara are investing US $235 million to construct a solar electricity plant in Cuyoaco, Puebla, with a capacity of 300 megawatts, enough to power 162,800 homes. The project, which will employ around 1,500 people during construction, is set to begin later this month and is expected to be completed by the end of 2020. The plant will span 755 hectares and is the third collaborative project between the two companies in Puebla, following two wind farms in Esperanza and Cañada Morelos. Puebla Governor Miguel Barbosa Huerta supports the project as part of his government's renewable energy investment policy.

The Manialtepec lagoon near Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, known for its natural bioluminescence, has recently turned a deep shade of pink. Scientists, including biologist Alejandra Torres Ariño from Universidad del Mar, are investigating the cause, which they suspect may be due to a shift in the microorganism population possibly triggered by changes in salinity or fertilizer runoff. While the color change does not seem toxic to humans, it could be harmful to the ecosystem by promoting the growth of invasive species. This event is reminiscent of a similar occurrence in Bajos de Coyula, Oaxaca, in 2016, where lagoons turned red and purple due to a biological reaction.

The Puebla state Congress, influenced by Governor Miguel Barbosa, has passed legislation that retains criminal penalties for abortion and upholds a ban on same-sex marriage. While the penalty for abortion has been reduced from five years to one year of imprisonment, the ban on same-sex marriage remains, despite the Supreme Court's 2015 ruling against such bans. Same-sex couples in Puebla still require a court order to marry. Deputy Rocío García Olmedo of the PRI criticized the Morena party for not legalizing abortion and same-sex marriage. Labor Party Deputy Juan José Espinosa plans to report Morena deputies for betraying the party's ideals and expressed concern that the continued ban could lead to hate crimes.

In the municipality of Las Margaritas, Chiapas, Mexico, residents of the indigenous Tojolabal community of Santa Rita Invernadero expressed their frustration with Mayor Jorge Luis Escandón Hernández by kidnapping him from the municipal palace. The community members were angry over unfulfilled campaign promises, specifically the construction of a road. After a clash with municipal employees, the protesters tied the mayor and dragged him through the streets with a pickup truck. He sustained injuries, and state police later rescued him, arresting 11 individuals involved in the incident. The mayor announced that charges of kidnapping and attempted kidnapping would be brought against those arrested. This event marks the second instance of public dissent against a mayor in Chiapas since July.

Maki Ortiz, the mayor of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, has proposed that federal lawmakers impose a 5% income tax on vendors in the informal economy, such as taco and corn vendors, who make less than 2 million pesos a year. During her testimony before the Chamber of Deputies Treasury Commission, she argued that this tax could generate additional wealth and help compensate for the reduced resources municipalities are receiving from the federal government. Ortiz also suggested that migrants should be self-supporting after a certain period in the country, highlighting the financial burden on local governments to provide for them. She noted that while there are jobs available for migrants, many are not taking them.

Around 120 athletes, trainers, and sports officials protested outside the Conade headquarters due to unpaid salaries. Efraín Mora, vice president of the Mexican Paralympic Committee, reported to El Universal that the staff has not been paid for 10 months, accumulating a debt of 6 to 7 million pesos. The protest lasted several hours until a Conade official, Israel Benítez, agreed to meet with the protesters and promised payment by October 18. Mora indicated that if the promise is not kept, further actions will be considered, including appealing directly to President López Obrador.

The article discusses the rise in sales of electric and hybrid vehicles in Mexico, citing a report from the Mexican Automotive Industry Association (AMIA). According to AMIA's data, there was an 86% increase in the sales of these vehicles in July 2019 compared to July 2018. The majority of sales were concentrated in Mexico City, México state, and Jalisco, which combined accounted for 65% of total sales. The article notes that while there has been a significant increase in electric and hybrid vehicle sales over the past three years, these numbers are still small when compared to the total sales of all light vehicles. It also mentions that sales of conventional vehicles have been declining for the past two years.

In the wake of a violent incident in Apaseo el Alto, Guanajuato, where 11 people were killed, Mayor María del Carmen Ortiz is calling for the return of the navy marines to bolster security. The mayor expressed her concerns in an interview with Milenio, highlighting the recent withdrawal of marines and the subsequent increase in violence. She criticized the current security strategies of the state and federal governments as ineffective. The local security is currently under state control, but will revert to municipal control by year's end. The violence in question involved an attack on three homes and a subsequent clash with the National Guard. Ortiz, who became mayor after her husband was murdered during his mayoral campaign, feels abandoned by the state government, which is from a different political party.

Tropical Storm Narda has caused significant damage to roads in Oaxaca, leaving 17 communities isolated. The storm damaged 96 roads, with only 38 fully reopened and 58 partially accessible. Oaxaca Highways and Airports Director David Mayren reported that the federal government is not funding fuel or worker salaries, and repairs are being managed through internal resources. Aid is being distributed to affected municipalities, but not all promised federal aid has arrived. Emergency declarations are limited to 22 out of 122 municipalities needing them. Additionally, Oaxaca Agriculture Secretary Sofía Castro reported that the storm and a preceding drought have damaged 127,000 hectares of farmland. The storm hit Oaxaca a week prior and continued to cause destruction as it moved north through Mexico.

Gabriel Casillas, the head of economic analysis at Banorte and president of the Economic Studies Committee at the Mexican Finance Executives Institute, forecasts a depreciation of the Mexican peso by nearly 3% by the end of the year, reaching 20.30 to the dollar. In an interview with Bloomberg, he attributed the expected decline to challenging international conditions. Despite minimal variance in the peso's value this year due to high interest rates and regained trust in President López Obrador's policies, Casillas anticipates the peso will average 19.80 to the dollar in the first half of 2020. He believes that U.S. President Donald Trump will sign a partial trade agreement with China to avoid a recession, which could strengthen the dollar and subsequently weaken the peso to 21.30 in the second half of 2020.

Jesús Orta Martínez, the Mexico City Security Secretary, announced his resignation after a 10-month tenure marked by rising crime rates and high-profile murder cases. The Mexico City government cited personal reasons for his departure, while the Citizens’ Movement party claimed he was removed due to unsuccessful security policies. Orta has been succeeded by Omar García Harfuch, who has a controversial background including a past investigation by the U.S. government and alleged connections to a crime gang. García Harfuch, who has been recognized for his service in the Federal Police, is expected to bring new capabilities to the police force and restore peace in Mexico City.

Aguascalientes, a state in Mexico, has passed a law banning smoking in workplaces and indoor public locations, which includes electronic cigarettes. The law imposes fines of up to 340,000 pesos or US $17,000 and potential jail time for violations. Aguascalientes is the 13th Mexican state to enact such a ban. The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids has praised the law and urged the national Congress to adopt a federal law for smoke-free environments. Aguascalientes has the second-highest smoking rate in Mexico, with 24.7% of its population being smokers, though less than half smoke regularly.

Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum has discussed the deployment of a 'Peace Belt' during the Tlatelolco protest march, which consisted of 12,000 city employees. The Peace Belt was intended to prevent violence and aggression during the march that commemorates the 1968 student massacre. Despite the Peace Belt's presence, some vandalism occurred, but Sheinbaum considered the initiative a success as it avoided police repression. She mentioned the possibility of future deployments with more organization and training for civil servants. Three masked protesters were arrested and released, but remain under investigation. Criticism arose from government employees and former president Felipe Calderón, who challenged President López Obrador to lead the next Peace Belt himself.

The Guaymas-Empalme valley in Sonora, Mexico, has experienced a surge in violence, leading to the closure of public schools. The incidents began early Thursday with armed civilians attacking homes in Guaymas, resulting in two fatalities and one abduction. The first attack occurred at 3:30 am, claiming the life of a 27-year-old man, followed by another at 7:00 am, which left a 51-year-old man dead, another injured, and one person kidnapped. The assailants also set multiple houses ablaze. Sonora state police are collaborating with federal and local authorities to apprehend the culprits, having interviewed witnesses and collected evidence. The police have found shell casings from ammunition that is illegal for civilian use in Mexico at the crime scenes.

The borough of Xochimilco is taking steps to improve safety on its canals by distributing life jackets to barge operators. This initiative comes after a recent drowning incident. The first batch of 700 life jackets was given out at the Cuemanco pier, with plans to distribute more at other piers soon. Since October 1, visitors are required to wear life jackets, and barge operators risk suspension if they do not enforce this rule. Mayor José Carlos Acosta Ruiz mentioned that the borough provided the life jackets to ensure compliance with the new safety regulations. Additionally, security will be increased during the Day of the Dead celebrations to further ensure visitor safety.

The Young Eagles México program, initiated in San Miguel de Allende in 2007, has been instrumental in introducing over 300 local youths to the aviation industry. The program provides educational insights into aviation and offers actual flight time. In a recent event at the Celaya airport, 87 young participants flew with volunteer pilots and attended seminars on flight safety, aviation history, and career paths in the field. The program aims to motivate students to continue their education, particularly in STEM subjects. The Young Eagles initiative, which began in the U.S. in 1992, has grown internationally, reaching over 90 countries and providing flight experiences to more than two million young individuals.

The environmental agency Profepa is assessing potential environmental damage following a fire on the tuna boat María Verónica in Manzanillo, Colima. The fire, which started during maintenance welding and involved 680 liters of diesel fuel, led to a significant evacuation and port closure. The Grupo Mar-owned boat was extinguished after 24 hours without casualties. Profepa is monitoring air and water quality and will conduct a thorough investigation, noting that the flame retardant used did not harm water quality.

Jonathan “N,” known as “El Pantera,” the alleged leader of the Pelones crime gang, has been arrested in Cancún by Quintana Roo police, with the collaboration of state and federal authorities. He was found in possession of drugs and firearms. Jonathan is accused of multiple murders and attempted murders, including the suspected femicide of Daniela Patiño, a Colombian woman who escaped human trafficking in Guatemala and was later found dead in Quintana Roo. The Attorney General Óscar Montes de Oca indicated that evidence suggests Jonathan's involvement in Patiño's murder, as extortion messages linked to him were sent to her before her death. He is also considered responsible for various violent acts in the region.

Yalitza Aparicio, an indigenous actress from Oaxaca, is set to be named a Goodwill Ambassador for UNESCO. She will be appointed at a ceremony in Paris and will focus on empowering indigenous peoples during her two-year mandate. Aparicio has been an advocate for gender equality and indigenous rights, aligning with UNESCO's goals. Her advocacy work includes a nomination for an Oscar for her role in 'Roma' and participation in conferences and events such as the 'Nueva Gente' conference and International Women's Day observances.

Tropical Storm Narda struck Oaxaca, Mexico, over the weekend, causing significant damage to roads and isolating approximately 46,000 people in 46 communities. The affected areas are primarily in the Sierra Sur and Mixteca regions. Landslides and floods have damaged roads and highways, with the most severe damage reported in the Sierra Sur, Mixteca, and Costa regions. Emergency workers, including state and federal teams, have managed to reopen all federal highways, but efforts to clear state highways are ongoing. The Río Grande-Juquila highway has been partially reopened, according to Oaxaca Highways and Airports director David Mayren.

Hidalgo Governor Omar Fayyad has announced plans for a new 15-kilometer highway connecting Real del Monte and Huasca, which is expected to boost tourism by up to 40%. The highway will feature bridges and tunnels, reducing travel time between the two towns. State Tourism Secretary Eduardo Baños Gómez expressed hope for the federal government to reinstate funding for the Magical Towns program. Pachuca, the state capital, is set to host the national Magic Towns fair with England as a special guest, anticipating a large turnout of visitors.

Mexico City is preparing for the annual march to remember the 1968 Tlatelolco massacre. President López Obrador addressed the nation, urging marchers to protest without covering their faces or engaging in violence. He referenced recent protests that resulted in significant vandalism. The upcoming march will mark the 51st anniversary of the massacre and will feature a minimal police presence, as agreed upon by the city and organizers. Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum has stated that there will be no repression but violence will not be tolerated. March organizers, including 1968 student movement leader Félix Hernandez Gamundi, have called for a peaceful, unmasked protest.

Businesses from Querétaro, Mexico, are organizing a trip to China to explore new partnership opportunities and seek suppliers. Lorena Jiménez Salcedo, the local president of Coparmex, highlighted the importance of finding alternative partners outside North America. The delegation will attend the Canton Fair, aiming to connect with potential suppliers for various business sizes and needs. Additionally, Coparmex Querétaro is collaborating with Querétaro’s World Trade Center to plan trade missions, including an upcoming visit to Washington to engage with the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the Mexican Embassy. This initiative is partly driven by the increased interest of Chinese businesses in Querétaro amid the US-China trade war, as noted by Antonio del Prete Tercero, Querétaro's Sustainable Development Secretary.

Mexican President López Obrador, during a press conference, acknowledged that previous taxes on unhealthy food and cigarettes have not effectively discouraged consumption. Despite this, the government intends to increase these taxes. Additionally, he announced the launch of a media campaign aimed at promoting healthy diets and traditional Mexican beverages as healthier alternatives to soda. The campaign will focus on educating the public about the benefits of good nutrition and the negative impacts of junk food on both health and finances. The 2020 budget anticipates that the new tax increase on cigarettes and junk food will generate an additional 62 billion pesos.

Mexican President López Obrador expressed his opposition to admission exams for public universities, arguing that everyone should have the opportunity to study. He criticized the neoliberal period for using failed admission tests as a pretext to reject students due to a lack of university spaces and budget, which he considered a move towards privatizing education. López Obrador highlighted that 60% of students at UNAM, which admits students from its own high schools, come from poor families, compared to only 35% at other public universities. He emphasized his commitment to improving access to higher education by planning to open 100 public universities across Mexico, reinforcing his belief against the policy of rejection and advocating for education over having youth on the streets.

Tropical Storm Narda has been causing significant damage along Mexico's Pacific coast, including infrastructure destruction and at least one fatality. After making landfall in Oaxaca and being downgraded to a tropical depression, Narda regained strength and returned to tropical storm status. The storm has affected multiple states, causing landslides, flooding, and damage to hundreds of homes. One man was found dead in Oaxaca, and another person is missing in Jalisco. Evacuations and class suspensions have been implemented in several states. Narda is expected to continue moving north and weaken by Wednesday.

Mexico City authorities are investigating a tragic accident at the Feria de Chapultepec amusement park where two people were killed on a roller coaster named Quimera. The incident occurred on Saturday when the last car of the ride derailed, resulting in fatalities and serious injuries. The Miguel Hidalgo borough, where the park is situated, emphasized the importance of examining the park's security program records, including maintenance and operations. Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum has suggested the possibility of seeking international assistance to ensure the investigation aligns with global protocols. The park has been temporarily closed, and there are reports from park vendors indicating that the ride had unresolved technical issues for years.

Apple has inaugurated its first flagship store in Latin America, located in the Antara shopping center in Mexico City's Polanco neighborhood. This is Apple's second store in Mexico but the first high-profile flagship in the region, with others only in the US, UK, Japan, and China. Deirdre O’Brien, Apple's retail and personnel vice president, highlighted the importance of the Mexican market in Apple's global expansion plans. The store is designed to be a welcoming space for customers and will serve as a hub for learning and creativity, offering free workshops on various subjects. Apple's hiring process for the store ensures a team passionate about technology and creativity, including musicians, photographers, and poets.

In Veracruz, Mexico, over 100 tonnes of garbage have been removed from the Río Blanco by local residents and fishermen, surpassing the initial estimate of 60 tonnes. The pollution was traced to eight illegal garbage dumps in the municipalities of Cuichapa and Omealca, which have now been closed by authorities. The waste, which threatened the local manatee population in the Alvarado lagoon system, has been contained and is being relocated to a landfill in Medellín. The situation poses a significant risk to the livelihood of local fishermen, as expressed by Fernando García, who fears the impact of pollution on his fishing activities.

In Michoacán, Mexico, seven municipal police officers from Ziracuaretiro have been arrested for the forced disappearance of two workers from an avocado farm. The Attorney General of Michoacán, Adrián López Solís, stated that the officers are accused of arresting the farm manager and two employees, stealing their belongings, and then releasing one employee while disappearing with the other two. This incident reflects the ongoing struggle against organized crime in the region, which is attempting to infiltrate the profitable avocado industry. The state has intervened by assigning 56 state police officers to take over law enforcement duties in Ziracuaretiro and appointing a new police chief. The situation has also affected U.S. agricultural inspectors, leading to concerns about the continuation of the avocado export certification program to the U.S.

The article discusses the current state of abortion laws in various states of Mexico. While two states have legalized abortion within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, deputies from 11 other states have indicated that there are no plans to introduce legislation to decriminalize abortion. These states include Querétaro, Sinaloa, Jalisco, Nayarit, Yucatán, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora, Morelos, and Nuevo León. In Querétaro, the National Action Party has stated they will not consider new legislation on abortion, even in cases where the mother's life is at risk. In contrast, Baja California is considered one of the 'most advanced' states regarding abortion laws, according to Morena party Deputy Milena Quiroga. Pro-choice activists, like Karina Chumacero of Marea Verde, argue that the decriminalization of abortion in Oaxaca should encourage other states to follow suit. Meanwhile, initiatives to legalize abortion are frozen in four states, but others plan to vote on such initiatives later in the year.

Religious organizations in Oaxaca, Mexico, are challenging the state's recent legalization of abortion. The Catholic Archdiocese of Antequera, represented by lawyer Jeshúa Rangel, is seeking an injunction against the law. Additionally, a collective injunction is being organized. Estefanía Ricci, a spokesperson for the pro-life group Provida, announced a campaign to politically retaliate against the Morena party, which is responsible for passing the bill in the Oaxaca Congress. Rodrigo Iban Cortez, from the National Family Front, criticized the bill as illegal, citing a conflict with the state constitution's protection of life from conception. In response, Morena Deputy Hilda Pérez indicated plans to amend the constitution to resolve this issue, while also referencing Supreme Court jurisprudence that may render the constitutional language ineffective against the new law.

The government of Veracruz has introduced a debt forgiveness program aimed at vehicle owners who have not paid fines or registration fees. The initiative is set to benefit over one million vehicle and motorcycle owners by waiving late payment fines, provided they pay the registration fees for the years they owe. The total amount of unpaid fines and fees is estimated to be around 3 billion pesos. The program is designed to encourage citizens to settle their outstanding vehicle registration debts without the additional burden of late charges.

Margarita Vergara de los Ríos, a biologist and former director of the CRIP in southern Tamaulipas, is urging state and federal governments to conduct daily monitoring of pollution levels in the Pánuco river, especially at the entrance to the Pueblo Viejo lagoon in Veracruz. She highlighted the recent mass death of catfish in Tampico, which may have been caused by pollution. Vergara emphasized the importance of agencies like the National Water Commission and the Health Secretariat to monitor the water quality to prevent damage to local fisheries and protect the livelihood of fishermen. Fishermen have expressed concerns about potential fishing bans due to pollution, and environmental activist Roque Montiel Lozano noted the significant amount of wastewater dumped into the Pánuco river.

The Oaxaca state legislature in Mexico has passed a law decriminalizing abortion within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The vote in the Chamber of Deputies resulted in 24 in favor, 12 against, and 6 abstentions. Abortion post 12 weeks will still be illegal, with penalties ranging from prison time to community service. Deputy Magaly López of the Morena party hailed the decision as historic for women's dignity and rights. The law aims to protect women who feel compelled to terminate pregnancies, as complications from illegal abortions are a leading cause of death in Oaxaca. Oaxaca is now the second state in Mexico, after Mexico City, to decriminalize abortion for any reason, while other states permit it in specific circumstances such as rape or to save the mother's life.

The Veracruz Government has been tackling a significant pollution issue in the Río Blanco, where an estimated 60 tonnes of waste has accumulated over a six-kilometer stretch. As of Tuesday, 14 tonnes of garbage have been removed, with efforts ongoing. The waste, a mix of organic and inorganic material, is believed to have originated from illegal landfills and was swept into the river by rising water levels during heavy rains. Veracruz Governor Cuitláhuac García has stated that an environmental prosecutor is investigating the situation. Cleanup efforts have included the use of 16 boats, with six from the Veracruz port authority, to collect the trash, which is then transported to the El Guayabo landfill. The aim is to prevent the waste from reaching the sea and affecting local lagoon systems. The cleanup involves state and federal officials, private businesses, and local fishermen and boat owners.

Hughes Network Systems is set to expand its HughesNet satellite internet service to cover 95% of Mexico, including rural and marginalized areas, starting October 1. This expansion aims to connect the significant portion of the Mexican population that remains offline, particularly in remote regions lacking infrastructure. HughesNet, which already serves 1.4 million people across several countries in the Americas, offers download speeds of up to 25 Mbps. The service will initially be available to residential customers, with plans to extend it to businesses in the future. Marketing manager Cristina Mendoza highlighted the independence of their service from traditional cable or fiber infrastructure.

The SkyBridge Arizona project at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is set to introduce a new customs pre-clearing system that will involve Mexican customs officials pre-clearing packages for direct delivery to Mexico. This initiative aims to reduce international shipping times and eliminate the long customs waits for online shoppers in Mexico. The project, which begins in October, is expected to cost $230 million and will include significant warehouse and office space. It is projected to create up to 17,000 jobs and handle 5% of the southwest's exports to Mexico by 2025. The expansion is part of the Unified Cargo Processing program, a collaboration between U.S. and Mexican customs authorities.

Mexican President López Obrador accused the civil society organization Mexicans Against Corruption and Impunity (MCCI) of sabotaging his administration by legally challenging federal projects, particularly the new Santa Lucía airport. He criticized MCCI for wanting to maintain a 'corrupt regime' and for opposing the now-cancelled airport in Lake Texcoco, which he claimed would have been extremely costly due to potential overruns. López Obrador also responded to MCCI president Claudio X. González's criticism of the president's cancellation of the 2013 education reform and his decision to give more power to teachers' unions, labeling González and MCCI as 'conservatives' and asserting that his administration is moving away from neoliberal policies.

The article discusses the postponement of a court hearing regarding injunctions against the construction of a new airport at the Santa Lucia Air Force Base in Mexico. The defense department planned to argue that the injunctions were against national interest, but the hearing was canceled without a new date. The collective No Más Derroches, which has filed over 100 injunctions to halt the airport's construction, was aware of the government's intention to overturn the injunctions by citing strategic importance. Legal experts have questioned the government's legal strategy, and while there is a possibility that the court may rule in the government's favor, any decision can be appealed. The new airport is intended to alleviate congestion at the Mexico City airport and replaces a previous plan for a new airport at Texcoco.

The Oaxaca Congress is set to vote on a bill that would decriminalize abortion within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Currently, women in Oaxaca can face imprisonment for procuring an abortion under certain conditions. The bill aims to address public health and social justice issues, as access to safe abortion services is particularly limited for poor and indigenous women. Statistics from Marie Stopes México indicate that many abortions in Oaxaca go unregistered, and Inegi reports that several women have been imprisoned for abortion-related offenses in recent years. Morena lawmaker Elisa Zepeda supports the bill, emphasizing its importance for social justice and public health.

The Mexican Employers Federation (Coparmex) is persisting in its legal fight against the construction of a new airport at the Santa Lucía Air Force base, a decision made by President López Obrador after cancelling the Texcoco airport project. Coparmex president Gustavo de Hoyos criticized the cancellation as one of the worst presidential decisions in Mexico's history, citing the high cost and damage to Mexico's investment reputation. Despite being labeled as conservatives and legal saboteurs, Coparmex, as part of the #NoMásDerroches coalition, continues to file injunctions to halt the Santa Lucía project and revive the Texcoco airport plan. The president has accused the injunctions of being politically motivated, following a controversial referendum that led to the decision to build the Santa Lucía airport and upgrade the existing Mexico City airport.

A video has surfaced on Facebook showing the harrowing moments inside an office building during the 7.1-magnitude earthquake that struck Mexico City on September 19, 2017. The video, shared by Alejandro Vargas, captures the panic and chaos as the earthquake hits, with people struggling to evacuate, some being thrown to the ground, and office furniture collapsing. The building, located at Izazaga 89, reportedly suffered structural damage, which the owners allegedly tried to conceal. The earthquake was one of two that month, resulting in over 500 deaths and thousands of injuries. The federal government has since reported that 30% of the damaged buildings have been repaired. Vargas reflects on the life-changing experience and his ongoing fear and appreciation for life post-earthquake.

Archaeologists from Mexico and Spain have uncovered new findings at the pre-Columbian city of X’baatún in Yucatán, revealing its extensive history. Carmen Varela Torrecilla, a Spanish archaeologist, highlighted the discovery of structures and ceramics dating from 500 B.C. to A.D. 1000. The team, including Juan García Targa, Alfonso Muñoz Cosme, and researchers from INAH, plans further excavations. X’baatún, part of the Oxhuatz tourism park, is believed to be a satellite of the Mayan city of Izamal. The site features a pyramid, a ball court, and a cenote. However, the site faces threats from looting and environmental damage. Varela is advocating for better protection from the Yucatán government to preserve this archaeological treasure.

Mexican soccer authorities are implementing measures to eliminate a discriminatory chant from fans, which has led to multiple sanctions and fines for the national team. The chant,

On a global day of action for climate change, hundreds of people marched in Mexico City and other Mexican cities to demand action from both Mexican and world governments. The protests were part of the Global Climate Strikes and Fridays for Future movements. Protesters, including students and environmentalists, called for the recognition of a climate emergency and a commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50%. The protests were inspired by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and are expected to continue with more organizations joining in the following week. The Global Week for Future coincides with the United Nations Climate Action Summit in New York.

Former Nayarit attorney general Édgar Veytia is facing a potential life sentence in the United States after pleading guilty to drug trafficking charges. U.S. prosecutors have highlighted his substantial assistance to a violent drug-trafficking organization, including accepting bribes to facilitate drug transportation and violent activities. Veytia, also known as 'El Diablo', collaborated with drug trafficker Juan Francisco Patrón Sánchez, and was involved in freeing Patrón's partners, arresting rivals, and covering up crimes. His sentencing is scheduled for next Thursday in the same court where Joaquín 'El Chapo' Guzmán was tried, and his minimum sentence could be 10 years. Despite the challenges of corruption in Nayarit, prosecutors argue that Veytia, a U.S. citizen, chose to engage in corruption rather than leave it behind.

The C5-i security system in Michoacán, Mexico, has proven effective shortly after its launch by aiding in the rescue of a kidnapped mother and her two daughters. The system's analysts, using over 6,000 security cameras, observed suspicious activity and alerted the police. The police swiftly intervened at the residence in the Ilustres Novohispanos neighborhood of Morelia, freeing the victims and arresting four suspects. The operation also led to the seizure of three firearms and a vehicle. A video from El Universal captured the emotional rescue, showcasing the relief of the victims and the reassurance provided by the officers.

Michoacán has launched the largest security system in Latin America, known as C5-i, which includes 11 sub-centers for monitoring state activities. Governor Silvano Aureoles emphasized the importance of working with the federal government on security policy and supports the additional deployment of National Guard troops. The C5-i will begin with a pilot program to combat homicide and will also see investment in the Attorney General’s Office. Federal Public Security Secretary Alfonso Durazo commended the governor's commitment to public security. The funding for these efforts will partly come from a tax increase on Michoacán business owners. The C5-i system employs 360 people and utilizes over 6,000 security cameras and 18,250 emergency panic buttons.

Interjet, a Mexican airline, has temporarily suspended pilot Alí Ximena García and another employee, Gabriela García Orozco, after García suggested on Facebook that a bomb should be dropped on Mexico City's zócalo during the Independence Day ceremony. The comment was supported by Orozco in a reply to the post. Following security protocols, Interjet has removed both employees for evaluations. García later apologized in a video on Facebook, expressing regret for her immature comment and clarifying her stance against violence. She apologized to her company, the president, Mexico, and those she offended.

U.S. companies are increasingly using trucking to supply gasoline to Mexico due to limitations with other transportation methods. Mexico City-based Indimex Marketing and Trading is one such company utilizing trucking, as confirmed by its founder Rajan Vig in a Bloomberg interview. Mexico, despite being a petroleum exporter, imports a significant amount of gasoline from the U.S. due to its limited refining capacity. The 2014 energy reform in Mexico allowed private gas stations to operate and import fuel, reducing the state oil company Pemex's monopoly. However, Pemex still faces distribution challenges, prompting private stations to seek other suppliers. Former Pemex official Josefa Casas highlighted the need for Mexico to enhance its port and rail infrastructure, despite trucking being a more costly and volume-limited option.

The article discusses the high consumption of bottled water in Mexico, highlighting that the country is the world's top per-capita consumer. Delia Montero Contreras, author of a new book, attributes this to a lack of confidence in public water supplies. In Mexico City, the average person consumes 390 liters of bottled water annually, spending over 4 billion pesos a year. The article also points out that lower-income areas, such as Iztapalapa, spend more on bottled water compared to wealthier areas. Professors from the Autonomous Metropolitan University (UAM) of Iztapalapa, including Javier Melgoza Valdivia and Óscar Monroy Hermosillo, suggest that improving public water quality could reduce bottled water consumption, which is dominated by companies like Nestlé, Danone, Coca-Cola, and Pepsico.

The South Texas-Tuxpan natural gas pipeline, a joint project between Mexican company IEnova and Canadian company TC Energy, has commenced operations, transporting gas from Texas to Mexico. This pipeline, which increases Mexico's natural gas supply by 40%, will be used for electricity generation. The inauguration was previously delayed due to the Federal Electricity Commission's (CFE) contract renegotiations initiated before President López Obrador's term. An agreement reached on August 27 will save the public purse $4.5 billion and extend IEnova's concession by 10 years. IEnova has expressed commitment to continue investing in Mexico's energy infrastructure.

Mayor Alfonso Miranda Gallegos of Amacuzac, Morelos, delivered the traditional Grito de Dolores, a speech commemorating Mexico's call for independence, from a federal prison via telephone. The mayor is currently incarcerated on charges of organized crime and kidnapping. During the ceremony, his son Gabriel Miranda, the municipal government's general secretary, rang a bell to mimic the historic act by Miguel Hidalgo in 1810. Alfonso Miranda, a member of the Labor Party, won the mayoral election in July 2018 but has been unable to take office. Despite his imprisonment, his political allies have assumed control of the municipal government. The article also notes that both Alfonso Miranda and his main opponent and nephew, Jorge Miranda, have ties to Santiago Mazari Hernández, a gang leader arrested earlier in the year.

Mexico experienced its hottest August on record in 2019, with the National Meteorological Service (SMN) reporting an average nationwide temperature of 27 degrees Celsius, which is 3.3 degrees above the norm. This surpassed the previous record set in 2015. Several municipalities, including Eduardo Neri and Aldama, saw temperatures soar to new highs. Mexico City also broke records in mid-August. The SMN attributes the increased temperatures to factors such as low rainfall, which was at 78% of the average for the year, leading to conditions that reduce evaporation and increase surface temperatures. The report highlights that every month of 2019 has been warmer than average.

An illegal tap on the Tuxpan-Poza Rica-Azcapotzalco pipeline in Ejido Calvarios, Acolman, México state, caused a significant gasoline leak, prompting the evacuation of at least 500 people early Sunday morning. México state police discovered the leak during a routine patrol, which resulted in a jet of gasoline spewing 20 meters into the air. State Governor Alfredo Del Mazo announced the evacuation on Twitter as a precautionary measure. Civil Protection officials reported no injuries or gasoline poisoning from the incident. By Sunday evening, Pemex officials had managed to control the leak.

In Toluca, México, four individuals were injured when police horses panicked due to fireworks set off by Monarcas Morelia soccer fans. The incident occurred on Paseo Tollocan, a major avenue, during a patrol. The fireworks led to a stampede that resulted in injuries to a state police officer and a 72-year-old woman, as well as two pedestrians who were hit by a taxi that collided with one of the horses. The taxi and a police car were damaged, and four people were hospitalized. One horse was seriously injured.

Apple is set to open its first flagship store in Latin America, located in the Polanco neighborhood of Mexico City, on September 27. This will be Apple's second store in Mexico, with the first one opened in Centro Santa Fe in 2016. The new Polanco store will be a freestanding, one-story structure in the Antara Fashion Hall. Apple's plans to open the store were delayed from early 2019 due to the demolition of a former Crate & Barrel store, leading to the construction of a new building. The store's details are listed on Apple's website. Currently, Latin America has two other Apple stores, both in Brazil, with plans for more flagship stores in Brazil and Canada.

The Mexico City government is urging residents to refrain from buying and using fireworks during the upcoming independence celebrations, citing legal penalties for unauthorized use. These penalties include jail time, fines, and community service. Since December 2018, 25 people have been penalized for using fireworks without permits. Environmental concerns are also a significant issue, with an environmentalist group in Toluca demonstrating against fireworks due to their impact on air quality. The government had previously excluded fireworks from official New Year's celebrations to protect air quality, but individual use still contributed to pollution and an environmental contingency.

A hazing incident at the Physical Education Teachers’ College (ENEF) in Morelia, Michoacán, has sparked public outrage after a video surfaced showing students being forcibly shaved and a female student injured during the ceremony. The video, posted by Rene Valencia Reyes, prompted the Michoacán Education Secretary, Alberto Frutis Solís, to announce an investigation by the Education Secretariat to identify those responsible and impose sanctions. The secretariat condemned the violent actions and emphasized the importance of respect and a culture of peace. The incident is not isolated, with reports of at least two deaths from hazing in Mexican schools last year.

The Nuevo Laredo Human Rights Committee (CDHNL) is accusing Tamaulipas state police of failing to protect a key witness, identified as Ramón, who allegedly witnessed a police massacre on September 5. CDHNL president Raymundo Ramos expressed concern for the witness's safety and is seeking to transfer him to the United States. The incident in question occurred in Nuevo Laredo, where police claimed to have killed eight individuals in a shootout, but evidence suggests the victims were executed after arrest. Tamaulipas Governor Francisco García Cabeza de Vaca stated that the state Attorney General’s Office is investigating the incident with potential assistance from the FBI. President López Obrador has also promised federal support for the investigation, emphasizing that there will be no tolerance for such acts and that those responsible will be punished.

The USDA is considering suspending its avocado certification program in Michoacán, Mexico, due to threats and violence against its inspectors. After incidents involving threats by a criminal gang and the robbery and theft of a vehicle carrying USDA agents, the USDA has issued a travel warning for 38 municipalities in Michoacán. The USDA has 58 employees in the region responsible for inspecting avocado farms for U.S. export. Following the violence, the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara demanded better security from local avocado growers, with the threat of ending the export program. Marie Martin, a USDA director, stated that the program will be suspended if their personnel face any future security threats.

The Mayor of Tulum, Víctor Mas Tah, has announced the cancellation of the traditional fireworks display for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations. This decision was made to protect animals from the distress caused by the noise of the fireworks. The funds that would have been used for the fireworks show will now be allocated to a free pet sterilization program, in an effort to promote sustainability within the municipality. The program is a collaborative effort between Tulum councilor Eva Rocha Geded and animal advocacy organizations, and it will be conducted at the Cultural Center. Additionally, the cancellation of the fireworks is intended to prevent potential fire hazards to local businesses.

The Mexican consumer protection agency Profeco has shut down nine gas stations in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, after they refused to sell fuel to the armed forces. This action was taken following reports that these stations were not serving security forces due to threats from the Northeast Cartel. Profeco, accompanied by soldiers, checked 12 stations, found three already out of service, and closed the remaining nine. The closures led to long queues at the operational gas stations. Profeco urged the public not to panic as the majority of the city's gas stations were still functional. The federal Attorney General’s Office is now investigating the matter.

The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) of Mexico is set to enhance the electricity generation capacity in Baja California Sur following a series of blackouts caused by low capacity. CFE operations director Carlos Andrés Morales Mar, alongside Governor Carlos Mendoza Davis, announced plans to restore 42 megawatts of capacity by October and introduce a new natural gas power plant in Pichilingue with a capacity of 170 megawatts. By the end of 2022, the state is expected to have an additional 472 megawatts of capacity. The current capacity is around 550 megawatts, which is insufficient during peak consumption times, leading to blackouts. The improvements aim to prevent future service interruptions.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) has released a video on social media targeting the citizens of Tepalcatepec, Michoacán. The video features a spokesperson flanked by armed men, urging the locals to expel Juan José 'El Abuelo' Farías, whom they accuse of leading a local crime gang and exploiting the town for his criminal activities. The CJNG claims their conflict is not with the citizens but specifically with 'El Abuelo' and his associates. The cartel suggests that the town will find peace once 'El Abuelo' is ousted. The context for this appeal is the recent violence in Tepalcatepec, which began on August 30 when CJNG members entered the town, resulting in nine deaths, all CJNG members. The situation has led to the deployment of army troops and the resumption of classes in local schools.

The Mexican consumer protection agency Profeco has initiated legal proceedings against several brands of gourmet cooking oils for misrepresenting their products. Tests conducted by Profeco scientists on 32 gourmet oils and 25 standard cooking oils revealed that eight brands contained adulterated products, with oils such as sesame, avocado, and grapeseed being mixed with cheaper safflower oil. Additionally, some products labeled as olive oil or olive oil blends had no olive oil, and others had less content than advertised. The affected brands include San Lucas, Cate de mi corazón, Kaporo, Foreway Sesame Expert, Kum Chum, D’Artana, Navarra, Demor, and Olivos Mendoza. The findings were published in Profeco's magazine, and the head of Profeco, Ricardo Sheffield, announced that the fraudulent products would be pulled from stores and the companies could be fined. In 2019, Profeco has opened 23 cases against cooking oil brands for consumer law breaches.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador delivered his first state of the union address, highlighting his strong approval ratings and control over Congress despite challenges in reducing violence and stimulating economic growth. He continues to blame previous administrations for these issues. The media's response to his speech was divided along ideological lines. López Obrador's security policies, particularly the creation of the National Guard, show more continuity with past administrations than change, according to experts. His migration policy has also seen a turnaround, with increased enforcement at the borders due to U.S. pressure. Economically, Mexico is experiencing slow growth but López Obrador questions the emphasis on GDP as a measure of success, instead focusing on social wellbeing indicators. He remains committed to creating a more equitable society, citing various positive economic indicators and social policy changes.