Every Day is Magic: Ada Limón

In her 2015 collection, Bright Dead Things, a National Book Award finalist for poetry, Ada Limón writes of moving to Kentucky: “Confession: I did not want to live here.” It’s perhaps not a surprising sentiment coming from a coastally oriented person who was raised in Northern California, attended college in Seattle, and then spent over a decade in New York City.

 

But Limón and her husband, Lucas, have been in Lexington for seven years now and the effects of settling into this place are noticeable in her new book, The Carrying (Milkweed, Aug.). It’s a phenomenally lively and attentive collection replete with the trappings of living a little closer to nature. While Bright Dead Things is marked by a preponderance of light, such as images of fireflies and neon signs, The Carrying features numerous appearances by various trees, birds, and beetles. Limón also demonstrates a greater willingness to be explicit in naming colors, particularly green. “It’s crazy green, the whole book,” she says. “Lexington is the greenest place I’ve ever lived.” Similarly, where in Bright Dead Things, Limón tells a lot of stories and anecdotes, in The Carrying she is very present in her thoughts and experiences.

As it turns out, these shifts in focus have another, altogether unexpected source. While putting Bright Dead Things together, Limón was diagnosed with chronic vestibular neuronitis, which can cause bouts of vertigo. “If I’m really having vertigo, it’s pretty intense and I really have to focus,”
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Food & Nutrition

About 1 in 10 restaurants in the U.S. serve Mexican food

“Mexican culture is widely established in America’s restaurants. Some 11% of restaurants in the United States serve Mexican food, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of data from SafeGraph, which curates information about millions of places of interest around the globe, and the user review site Yelp.

Although especially common in California and Texas, Mexican restaurants are found in a large majority of counties in the U.S. Some 37.2 million people in the U.S. trace their ancestry to Mexico, making Mexican Americans by far the largest Hispanic origin group in the nation…”

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/01/11/about-1-in-10-restaurants-in-the-us-serve-mexican-food/?utm_source=Pew+Research+Center&utm_campaign=3d289d88e2-Weekly_1-13-24_copy&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-89c027717a-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D

Mexican American family launches food truck in Lewisville

“…Sol Muniz and his wife, Karla Delgado, opened La Callejera food truck on Thanksgiving Day. “We figured what better way to give thanks than to work on the opening of our food truck. We actually had a good day,” Muniz said.

The family moved to the Triad from Palm Springs last June to be closer to Delgado’s mother and stepfather. “We wanted to give our kids a better life, better schooling,” Muniz said.

“California had gotten so expensive,” Delgado said. “And my mom was always saying, ‘You should move here and get a food trailer’ – so we did!”…

https://journalnow.com/life-entertainment/local/food-drink/mexican-american-family-launches-food-truck-in-lewisville/article_67a150e6-ac14-11ee-8740-4b76b821d318.html

Mexican Americans Face Higher Odds for Liver Cancer With Each New Generation

Mexican and Cuban experts to discuss diversification of the sugar agroindustry

“HAVANA, Cuba, Nov 3 (ACN) Experts and specialists of the Associations of Sugar Technicians of Cuba and Mexico (ATAC-ATAM) are meeting today in Havana for their 7th meeting on the flexibility and diversification of the sugar agribusiness in their countries and also in Brazil.

The deliberations will be held at the National Sugar Training Center, starting from the consideration of aspects common to their respective managements, especially for a space for analysis, reflection and exchange of experiences, ATAC reported exclusively to the Cuban News Agency.

Mainly, it added, to contribute to the reorientation and development of the productive chains of co-products and derivatives, in an efficient and effective way in the current conditions, taking into account the requirements of sugarcane agriculture that supports it…”

http://www.cubanews.acn.cu/economy/22843-mexican-and-cuban-experts-to-discuss-diversification-of-the-sugar-agroindustry

Veteran Mexican-American restaurateurs open new restaurant

“The family that has owned Taqueria El Paisano on the Southside for about 20 years has a new restaurant on the other side of town.

Luna Playa Taqueria & Bar opened Aug. 4 at 2021 Griffith Road just off Hanes Mall Boulevard and next to Lucha Libre Ice Cream & Churros…”

https://journalnow.com/life-entertainment/local/food-drink/veteran-mexican-american-restaurateurs-open-new-restaurant/article_fd66246e-3d2c-11ee-bae9-27436801fc00.html

 

How the concha became a symbol of Mexican American identity

“Not all pan dulces are created equal. Cuernitos, puerquitos, orejas, they each have their place, sure. But one stands above the rest, at least in terms of icon status: the concha.

Indeed, the fluffy, brioche-like bun topped with colorful, crumbly seashell designs has attracted quite the cult following, inspiring a slew of merch and art. For Chicanos in particular, the sweet treat has become a mascot. Just look at Panaderia Vanessa, a California bakery pumping out delicious Barbie-themed conchas. But what is it about the concha that has elicited such fanfare?…”

https://www.latimes.com/delos/story/2023-07-27/concha-symbol-of-mexican-american-identity

 

How Northgate González Market Engages Its Key Mexican American Consumer Base

“…Mexican Americans comprise approximately 70% of the U.S. Hispanic population of more than 60 million; therefore, successful marketing to the Mexican American population in the U.S. is a critical element of a thriving Hispanic marketing practice. Marketing to immigrants and first-generation Mexican Americans is the daily bread and butter for brand marketers at southwestern U.S.-based retailers and supermarkets.  43-year-old Northgate González Market is a prime example of a retail organization that almost exclusively targets Mexican American consumers. Northgate operates 43 stores in Southern California with an annual revenue of approximately US $1.3 billion. (The multicultural grocery market is estimated at US$ 50 billion in annual sales)…”

https://www.portada-online.com/feature/marketing-to-mexican-americans-how-northgate-gonzalez-market-does-it/

oe Biden raises eyebrows with ‘Flamin’ Hot’ Eva Longoria embrace

“President Biden got a little too close to actress Eva Longoria at the White House Thursday night — before the Hollywood starlet guided the 80-year-old’s mitts to relative safety.

The president embraced the “Desperate Housewives” alum after addressing a film screening of her directorial debut, “Flamin’ Hot,” but let his hands hover a bit too long on her waist before the actress quickly moved to grasp them and took a step back…”

https://nypost.com/2023/06/16/biden-gets-handsy-with-eva-longoria-at-white-house/

How Tajin Expands its Marketing Beyond its Mexican American Core Consumer

“Tajin, the Mexican company that produces several varieties of condiments consisting predominantly of chili peppers, lime and salt, entered the U.S. market in 1993.  It has since obtained a considerable following among Mexican Americans. The brand also targets the overall U.S. population transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries. Portada interviewed Luis Alfaro, Brand Leader at Tajin USA…”

https://www.portada-online.com/latest-news/how-tajin-expands-its-marketing-beyond-its-mexican-american-core-consumer/

After growing GM corn for decades, some US farmers open to Mexican restrictions

“CHICAGO, April 6 (Reuters) – Mexico has found unexpected allies as it tries to limit imports of genetically modified (GM) corn: some U.S. farmers who grow the crops.

Farmers have for decades planted GM corn, which protects against insects and weedkillers, with seeds sold by companies like Bayer AG (BAYGn.DE), Corteva Inc (CTVA.N) and ChemChina’s Syngenta.

But as believers in a free market, some say the U.S. should agree to sell Mexico non-GM corn, rather than deepen a trade dispute over the proposal, and note they could earn a premium for growing more conventional corn…”

https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/after-growing-gm-corn-decades-some-us-farmers-open-mexican-restrictions-2023-04-06/

El Paso chef behind Elemi’s gourmet tacos named semifinalist for James Beard award

“…Elemi, 313 N Kansas St., is owned by Marentes and his wife, Kristal.

The Downtown restaurant makes authentic, handmade blue corn tortillas and specialty tacos, like El Campesino, made with confit portobello mushrooms and grilled eggplant, avocado, queso, and black beans.

Marentes is the only semifinalist from Texas up for the “Outstanding Chef ” award…”

https://www.elpasotimes.com/story/entertainment/dining/2022/02/25/james-beard-award-elemi-el-paso-chef-emiliano-marentes-texas/6937697001/

Explainer: What is the US-Mexico GM corn dispute about?

“…March 8 (Reuters) – The U.S. has requested formal trade consultations with Mexico over the Latin American country’s plans to restrict imports of genetically modified corn.

The North American neighbors will inch closer to a full-blown trade dispute under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement on trade (USMCA) if there is no resolution during the talks, which Mexico says will last one month.

-old native varieties and has questioned their impact on human health….”

https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/what-is-us-mexico-gm-corn-dispute-about-2023-03-08/

U.S. demands formal talks with Mexico over GMO corn dispute

“CHICAGO/WASHINGTON, March 6 (Reuters) – The United States requested formal trade consultations with Mexico on Monday over U.S. objections to its southern neighbor’s plans to limit imports of genetically modified corn and other agricultural biotechnology products.

The U.S. Trade Representative’s office announced the request for technical talks after months of informal discussions with Mexican officials over their plans to ban GMO corn for human consumption failed to satisfy U.S. trade officials…”

https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/us-ask-mexico-formal-talks-over-gmo-corn-dispute-bbg-2023-03-06/

Restaurant review: Mexican, American, Indian? Sabores has you covered

“Can’t decide what you’re in the mood for?

Burrito? Tacos? Burger? Hot dog? Pasta? BBQ ribs? Salmon? Po’ boy? Gumbo? Curry?

Eduardo Garduno, who for 17 years was the chef at the former Dobhan and Chautara restaurants, makes all of that and more at Sabores Fusion Grill on State Street, which he opened in August.

During two recent visits, my favorite thing was the smash burger ($10.99). I didn’t expect two patties, and they were particularly juicy and flavorful. The bun held up to the substantial amount of meat plus cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and white onion. The menu mentioned special sauce, but it was hard to detect…”

https://madison.com/entertainment/dining/reviews/restaurant-review-mexican-american-indian-sabores-has-you-covered/article_d48bbf7d-9f9f-5af9-bea5-6b8de3d7cb1f.html

Craft Beer On The Rise In Mexico

“Mexico is a beer-loving country, but it was relatively late to the craft beer scene, until now.

Cerveza Mexico 2022 recently wrapped up in Mexico City.

The three-day celebration of craft beer which drew over 16,000 attendees to the World Trade Center in late October culminated with the announcement of the winners of the Cerveza Cup 2022, a prize which recognizes the best in Mexican craft beer.

, Craft Beer On The Rise In Mexico47 international judges evaluated some 709 beers from a total of 136 breweries across Mexico, with the beers classified in 43 categories. And three craft breweries were awarded.

Guadalajara, Jalisco-based Cervecería Capital Pecado, a small family business that was founded in 2017 was named the best small brewery of 2022. Tijuana’s Kaminari Brewing was named the best medium-sized brewery and Buqui Bichi Brewing in Hermosillo, Sonora, the best large craft brewery in Mexico…”

https://www.americancraftbeer.com/craft-beer-on-the-rise-in-mexico/

 

UEI Global Education Organises a Fusion of American & Mexican Food Festival

“UEI Global Education is an educational initiative of Berggruen Charitable Trust (USA), India’s top rated Hospitality Education Institutions since 2007. UEI offers courses that can be split into Traditional Higher Education and Vocational Training.

UEI Global currently has 9 state-of-the-art campuses across 9 cities pan India. UEI Global offers a bouquet of industry-oriented programs focused on the requirements of the service sector. The vision is to impart education through meticulous & contemporary curriculum, standardized processes and qualified faculty in a world class environment to create multi-skilled professionals…”

https://indiaeducationdiary.in/uei-global-education-organises-a-fusion-of-american-mexican-food-festival/

 

Here’s why agricultural experts think an avocado shortage — and price surge — may be looming

“Over 80% of the avocados found in the United States — whether that be in supermarket produce sections or on the line at your local Chipotle — are imported from Michoacán, Mexico. However, over the weekend, the United States Department of Agriculture (the USDA) suspended avocado imports from the Mexican state after an American inspector was allegedly verbally threatened on his official cellphone.

According to the USDA, the agency is working with Customs and Border Protection to funnel avocados that were certified for export on or before Feb. 11 into the United States. However, avocados certified for export after that date will not be allowed to enter the United States “as long as necessary to ensure the appropriate actions are taken, to secure the safety of APHIS personnel working in Mexico.” …”

https://www.salon.com/2022/02/16/heres-why-agricultural-experts-think-an-avocado-shortage–and-price-surge–may-be-looming/

NPPC voices concerns over swine industry visa decisions

“…Created under the North American Free Trade Agreement, the TN visa allows Canadian and Mexican professionals to temporarily fill specific job openings in the United States. It is used widely in the swine industry as a way to source qualified and competent labor for farm jobs.

NPPC has received reports that eligible applicants have been denied entry into the country for no cause and cannot appeal such decisions. Other evidence suggests applicants have been rejected because of subjective interpretations of having “sufficient ties” to their home country and about their intent to return to it. The NPPC reports that in one case, a veterinarian with a clinic in Mexico was denied a TN visa and told the decision was final…”

https://www.thepigsite.com/news/2021/10/nppc-voices-concerns-over-swine-industry-visa-decisions


  

Poem
“…And would it have been worth it, after all,
Would it have been worth while,
After the sunsets and the dooryards and the sprinkled streets,
After the novels, after the teacups, after the skirts that trail along the floor—
And this, and so much more?—
It is impossible to say just what I mean!
But as if a magic lantern threw the nerves in patterns on a screen:
Would it have been worth while…”

T.S. Eliot
The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock

Mexican American Proarchive Annual Report for 2022

The American Community Survey is an annual survey administered by the federal government to help local officials and community leaders and businesses understand the changes that take place in their communities. It includes percentages of our population’s graduate school attainment and the employment of Mexican Americans in various occupations.  These important factors influence the allocation of federal resources. Mexican American Proarchives uses the data provided by the American Community Survey to better understand how Mexican Americans compare to the general population.

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