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Check FAQAbout Matthew
Matthew Bremner is a journalist based in Burgos, Spain. He is fluent in Spanish and has filed reports and features from places such as Argentina and Japan. His work has appeared in the Financial Times, the BBC, VICE, Slate, The Daily Beast, Roads and Kingdoms and ESPN. You can find examples of his work at : www.matthewembremner.com
Feature Stories
Fact Checking
Portfolio
What Really Happened to Baby Christina?
Barton McNeil was convicted for the murder of his three-year-old daughter, Christina McNeil, in 1998. He has maintained his innocence, claiming his then-girlfriend Misook Nowlin was responsible. The case has been fraught with controversy, including questionable forensic evidence and a potential wrongful conviction. McNeil's legal team, including the Illinois Innocence Project and the Exoneration Project, has fought for a retrial based on new evidence, including DNA findings and expert testimony. Despite these efforts, a judge ruled against granting a new trial in February 2023. McNeil, now 65, faces the prospect of dying in prison, while a community of supporters continues to advocate for his innocence.
The Taiwan firewater that warms frosty relations
The article discusses the Taiwanese liquor '58' Kaoliang, a type of baijiu, which is known for its subtlety compared to other Chinese baijius that are typically harsher. The focus is on how '58' Kaoliang is distinct in its flavor profile, offering a smoother experience from the first sip to the finish. The piece may explore the cultural significance of the drink, its production process, and how it plays a role in the relationship between Taiwan and China, potentially serving as a cultural bridge despite political tensions.
year in review
The article reflects on the activities and topics covered by the publication in the year 2018, focusing on the theme of sexuality and lifestyle. It mentions that the year may not have been the most exciting, but the publication did not shy away from exploring various subjects related to intimate lives. This included testing new products marketed as aphrodisiacs and delving into the erotic fantasies of the teenage demographic.
The Art of the Egg Cleanse
The article discusses the practice of egg cleansing, a form of spiritual cleansing that is believed to purify one's aura. Egg cleansing is a ritual rooted in various cultural traditions, where an egg is used as a tool to absorb and remove negative energy from a person's aura. The process typically involves rolling an unbroken egg over the body, often accompanied by prayers or intentions for cleansing. The article seems to explore the cultural significance of this practice and its perceived benefits for those who believe in its power.
From the archives: the father who went undercover to find his son’s killers
The article revisits a classic piece from 2017, which tells the story of Francisco Holgado, a man whose son was murdered. After the police were unable to solve the case, Holgado took matters into his own hands by infiltrating the local criminal underworld in an attempt to find those responsible for his son's death. His actions led him to become a national hero in Spain, but the article also explores the personal costs of his quest for justice. The story is introduced by the author, Matthew Bremner, who provides new insights into the narrative. Additionally, the article includes a guide on how to listen to podcasts, indicating that the story may be available in audio format.
The Melilla massacre: how a Spanish enclave in Africa became a deadly flashpoint – podcast
The article discusses a tragic event known as the Melilla massacre, which occurred in a Spanish enclave located in Africa. The focus is on how this area became a flashpoint for violence and the circumstances that led to the deadly incident. The piece likely explores the historical, political, and social factors contributing to the tension and conflict in Melilla, providing an in-depth analysis of the events surrounding the massacre. As it is a podcast, the format suggests an audio-based investigative report, which may include interviews, eyewitness accounts, and expert commentary to give listeners a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
Did Avocado Cartels Kill the Butterfly King?
The article discusses the various challenges faced by the Rosario community, particularly the decline of monarch butterflies in North America, which has been exacerbated near Rosario due to climate change and the use of herbicides. The situation has worsened with a mining company attempting to exploit a legal loophole to open a mine near the butterfly reserve, posing an additional threat to the butterflies. The community is also dealing with an increase in violent crime, with some avocado farmers taking up arms against cartels. The Covid-19 pandemic has further impacted the community, as the butterfly sanctuary was closed during the peak migration season to prevent the spread of the virus. The community feels the absence of Gómez, who was seen as a controlling figure in these tumultuous times.
Sacrifice
The article narrates the life and work of Justo Gallego Martínez, an ex-monk who spent nearly 60 years building a cathedral by himself using waste and recycled materials on the outskirts of Madrid. Despite being uneducated in architecture and construction, Justo's cathedral, inspired by his religious fervor and dedication to God, grew to a massive structure, drawing international attention and comparisons to Gaudi's Sagrada Familia. The cathedral's legality was questioned due to the lack of formal plans and registration, and its future became uncertain as Justo's health declined. Eventually, Justo and his helper Ángel donated the cathedral to Mensajeros de la Paz, a Catholic NGO, which began efforts to preserve and stabilize the structure. The article explores Justo's motivations, the challenges he faced, and the impact of his work, culminating in his death on November 28th, 2021.
How a Few Bad Years Took Ecuador From Stability to ‘Narco State’
Fernando Villavicencio, a candidate for the presidency of Ecuador, delivered a speech at a campaign rally in northern Quito. As a journalist and trade unionist, Villavicencio is running with a centrist conservative party but employs populist rhetoric. He criticizes the current political leaders for corruption and suggests that a political shake-up is necessary to combat organized crime and redirect the country's wealth from 'white-collared criminals' to the people.
The Coffin Business Is Booming in Central America Due to Gang Violence
Carlos Sr. and Carlos Humberto Pacheco expanded their funeral service business by setting up a new parlor called Funerales Pacheco in Usulután, a city known for its high level of danger due to violent crime. The location of the new funeral parlor is strategic, as it allows them to quickly reach potential clients through contacts in the police, hospitals, and mortuaries, a practice colloquially known as 'muertear' or 'ambulance chasing.' Carlos Humberto acknowledges that a significant portion of their business comes from violent deaths and implies that leveraging the high death rate is a necessity for their business, although he does not disclose whether they compensate their informants.
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