World Notes MEXICO

According to legend, the site of the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, now Mexico City, was revealed to its founders by an eagle bearing a snake in its claws - and alighting on a cactus. That image is now the official seal of the country and appears on its flag. Thus Mexican authorities were furious this month when they discovered their beloved eagle splattered with catsup by an interloper from north of the border: McDonald's.

To commemorate Mexico's Flag Day, two Golden Arches outlets in Mexico City papered their trays with place mats embossed with a representation of the national emblem. Eagle-eyed government agents swooped down and confiscated the disrespectful place mats. Saul Kahan, senior partner of McDonald's in Mexico, explained, "Our intention was never to give offense. It was to help Mexicans learn about their culture." Do not expect the chain to introduce a new dish called McEaglets anytime soon.