Monday, August 27, 2012

Is Puerto Rico your country or is it the USA?

Is Puerto Rico your country or is it the USA? - Monday, August 27, 2012 - (author unknown)

Answer: Oh, most definitely, the USA!!!

"¡Por favor. El amor y el interés fueron al campo un día y pudo más el interés que el amor que te tenía. Además, no todos los boricuas sonríen todo el tiempo!”

Memorias de un Gay Sesenton: the City College and 'la isla de la ... - Monday, August 27, 2012 - gerardo torres

lunes, 27 de agosto de 2012

the City College and ‘la isla de la simpatía”

Juan Ramón Jiménez was so impressed by a particular Puerto Rican quality, the smiles, that the Nobel laureate wrote a book, Isla de la Simpatía, dedicated to this marvelous and soothing quality. Puerto Ricans in Puerto Rico smile when greeting you; and they do so whenever they encounter each other, unless they are in some kind of struggle, but other than that they smile. Though, most Puerto Ricans in New York have not lost this quality, not all have kept smiling when encoutering each other.

When I started to work at the College, there were seven Puerto Ricans working at the School of Education. By the end of the seventies, most of them were either not given tenure, or, for obvious reasons others decided to leave. It was the seventies and all of these faculty members integrated the political situation of these unique colonials with the content and process of educational programs. The very progressive school did not seem to be very interested in identifying and hiring members of this ethnic group. It is easier to discuss and study Dewey and Piaget without having to face issues of colonialism in your backyard, linguistic and political oppression.

Not until the late eighties and nineties, when it was convenient for the School to bring Puerto Ricans into the faculty, my own sense of loneliness and defensiveness began to fade away. Other than two or three colleagues, the rest was simply a bunch of dishonest characters dressed up as progressives; pleasant but “hipócritas a la máxima potencia.” Thus, when Puerto Ricans were brought to work in a place where my accent and educational ideas were continuously under criticism, it was great once more to be surrounded by people I thought would understand where I was coming from and support me. And to some extent they did, until the Puerto Rican “sonrisa” showed me how naïve I was.

When coming across one of the new employees, I gave her a big smile. She looked at me and continued walking as if I did not exist. I shared my bewilderment with another colleague who most probably told the “seriota” (this is the term PRs use to refer to people who do not smile); and suddenly, whenever I went into the office of the “seriota” everyone in the office where the “seriota” worked was smiling at me and sarcastically saying, “Hello, Gerardo”. I went from cultural solidario to a payaso.

It was very naïve on my part to think that simply because someone was a PR I was going to be greeted with courtesy and cultural understanding. Luckily I had my friends with whom I shared everything that happened at the very progressive school, and while smiling they answered, “¡Por favor. El amor y el interés fueron al campo un día y pudo más el interés que el amor que te tenía. Además, no todos los boricuas sonríen todo el tiempo!”

Publicado por gerardo torres en 04:14

http://memoriasdeungaysesenton.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-city-college-and-la-isla-de-la.html

Friday, August 24, 2012

Drug cartels are increasingly using Puerto Rico as a conduit to transport cocaine and other illicit drugs to the U.S. mainland

Miami Herald Aug. 23, 2012

by Kenneth D. McClintock on Thursday, August 23, 2012 at 4:39pm ·

THE READERS’ FORUM
Puerto Rico is committed to safer neighborhoods

Angel Castillo’s Aug. 16 Other Views column, Puerto Rico: Visions of a police state, mischaracterizes a necessary new law in Puerto Rico that will keep violent criminals off our streets and make our communities safer.

Drug cartels are increasingly using Puerto Rico as a conduit to transport cocaine and other illicit drugs to the U.S. mainland, which has led to an increase in violent crimes in our neighborhoods. This new law cracks down on violent criminals and drug traffickers by increasing prison sentences for second-degree homicide to 50 years, and negligent homicide to 15 years. The sentence for first-degree homicide remains 99 years. Additionally, the law increases prison sentences for kidnapping, robbery, sexual assault and the production of child pornography.

A provision of the law would also keep violent criminals and drug lords from intimidating and threatening Puerto Rico’s elected leaders, a dangerous practice that cartels have successfully employed in Mexico. It is most definitely not intended to prevent peaceful demonstrations where U.S. citizens freely exercise their First Amendment rights, as the American Civil Liberties Union erroneously claims.
In addition to supporting tough new anti-crime measures, Gov. Luis Fortuño has made comprehensive reforms to modernize the Puerto Rico police and has sought more federal assistance to fight drug trafficking. This includes proposing a Caribbean Border Initiative that would ensure Puerto Rico receives federal resources to secure America’s Caribbean border similar to those provided to states that border Mexico.

The government of Puerto Rico is committed to making our neighborhoods safer and preventing drug cartels from gaining a foothold on our island.

Kenneth D. McClintock
Secretary of State
San Juan, Puerto Rico

Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/08/22/2963768/puerto-rico-is-committed-to-safer.html#storylink=cpy

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Link: 9:08 AM 8/21/2012: Puerto Rico Voters Reject Constitutional Amendments, To Reduce Legislature ...

Puerto Rico News

___________________________________________________________________

9:08 AM 8/21/2012

AMBIENTE PLAYA REFERENDUM - Sunday, August 19, 2012 - elvoceroprFORTUÑO ACATA...

DECISIÓN DEL "NO" - Sunday, August 19, 2012 - elvoceroprPuerto Rican Influence Throughout the Fifty States - Monday, August 20, 2012 - KGStorm development update - Tuesday, August 21, 2012 - (author unknown)caribnews: Tropical Storm Warning in effect for Dominica, Guadalupe, St Martin, Antigua, St Kitts, Nevis, Monserrat and Barbuda - NHC - Tuesday, August 21, 2012 - (author unknown)*A PONER FIN A UNA PESQUISA VICIOSA - Tuesday, August 21, 2012After determination of the Department of Justice judge exonerating the Chief Justice Federico Hernández Denton, of the charge of illicit use of public funds, the Senate must put an end to what is clearly a vicious political attack against the judge and the highest court of the country. Gestures Sergio C. Gutierrez Negron A body emaciated, with ribs poking through a thin layer of what is contained skin, eyes narrowed, occupying a public space in political fasting: dig Obama versus Berrios Jose Alfredo Hernandez Mayoral Most saw the reaction of annoyance of Ruben Berrios. The video is on the website of the Independence Party. His anger was caused by the offer of President Barack Obama to start If you do not hire me, I contract *Learning culture of Puerto Rico - Scranton Times-Tribune - Friday, August 17, 2012Religious Left Infatuation with Puerto Rican Terror - FrontPage Magazine - Friday, August 17, 2012NPP Commissioner: Drug dealers influenced the Referendum - Tuesday, August 21, 2012What Will It Take for Gays to Just Get Along? A Plan and a Prayer - Huffington Post (blog) - Monday, August 20, 2012Gov. Fortuño signs foreclosure mediation law | News is my Business - Tuesday, August 21, 2012Rusia: ¿Pussy Riot condenadas por sus simpatizantes? - Tuesday, August 21, 2012 - Gabriela Garcia Calderon OrbeCrews disassembling freighter that grounded 2 months ago off outlying Puerto ... - Greenfield Daily Reporter - Monday, August 20, 2012Colombia ex-general pleads guilty to supporting terrorism - Tuesday, August 21, 2012Court Deals Blow To Tough Immigration Law - Monday, August 20, 2012 - APJulian Assange asylum: Rafael Correa says it is suicidal for UK to enter Ecuador embassy – video - Tuesday, August 21, 201213 alleged gang members in Puerto Rico indicted - Huffington Post - Thursday, August 16, 2012 - (author unknown)14 de agosto de 2012via O m a r B a n u c h i on 8/19/1214 de agosto de 2012

Source: Puerto Rico News

9:08 AM 8/21/2012

Puerto Rico Voters Reject Constitutional Amendments, To Reduce Legislature ... - Huffington Post - Sunday, August 19, 2012

Puerto Ricans reject constitutional amendments - San Francisco Chronicle - Sunday, August 19, 2012 - (author unknown)

AMBIENTE PLAYA REFERENDUM - Sunday, August 19, 2012 - elvoceropr

FORTUÑO ACATA DECISIÓN DEL "NO" - Sunday, August 19, 2012 - elvoceropr

Puerto Rican Influence Throughout the Fifty States - Monday, August 20, 2012 - KG

Storm development update - Tuesday, August 21, 2012 - (author unknown)

caribnews: Tropical Storm Warning in effect for Dominica, Guadalupe, St Martin, Antigua, St Kitts, Nevis, Monserrat and Barbuda - NHC - Tuesday, August 21, 2012 - (author unknown)

*

A PONER FIN A UNA PESQUISA VICIOSA - Tuesday, August 21, 2012

After determination of the Department of Justice judge exonerating the Chief Justice Federico Hernández Denton, of the charge of illicit use of public funds, the Senate must put an end to what is clearly a vicious political attack against the judge and the highest court of the country.

Gestures

Sergio C. Gutierrez Negron

A body emaciated, with ribs poking through a thin layer of what is contained skin, eyes narrowed, occupying a public space in political fasting: dig

Obama versus Berrios

Jose Alfredo Hernandez Mayoral

Most saw the reaction of annoyance of Ruben Berrios. The video is on the website of the Independence Party. His anger was caused by the offer of President Barack Obama to start

If you do not hire me, I contract

*

Learning culture of Puerto Rico - Scranton Times-Tribune - Friday, August 17, 2012

Religious Left Infatuation with Puerto Rican Terror - FrontPage Magazine - Friday, August 17, 2012

NPP Commissioner: Drug dealers influenced the Referendum - Tuesday, August 21, 2012

What Will It Take for Gays to Just Get Along? A Plan and a Prayer - Huffington Post (blog) - Monday, August 20, 2012

Gov. Fortuño signs foreclosure mediation law | News is my Business - Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Rusia: ¿Pussy Riot condenadas por sus simpatizantes? - Tuesday, August 21, 2012 - Gabriela Garcia Calderon Orbe

Crews disassembling freighter that grounded 2 months ago off outlying Puerto ... - Greenfield Daily Reporter - Monday, August 20, 2012

Colombia ex-general pleads guilty to supporting terrorism - Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Court Deals Blow To Tough Immigration Law - Monday, August 20, 2012 - AP

Julian Assange asylum: Rafael Correa says it is suicidal for UK to enter Ecuador embassy – video - Tuesday, August 21, 2012

13 alleged gang members in Puerto Rico indicted - Huffington Post - Thursday, August 16, 2012 - (author unknown)

14 de agosto de 2012

via O m a r B a n u c h i on 8/19/12

14 de agosto de 2012

Why do the Caribbean Islands Arc?

http://planetsave.com/2012/08/21/why-do-the-caribbean-islands-arc/

Why do the Caribbean Islands Arc?

August 21, 2012 By Joshua S Hill Leave a Comment

If you look at the Caribbean islands from above you’ll see that they arc, and new research by geophysicists at the University of Southern California have found that over the past 50 million years the Caribbean islands have been pushed east by the steady movement of the Earth’s viscous mantle against the more stationary Southern American continent.

The result of this study which was published in the journal Nature Geoscience yesterday give us a better understanding of how continents resist the constant movement of the Earth’s plates, and what effect continental plates have on reshaping the surface of Earth.

“Studying the deep earth interior provides insights into how the Earth has evolved into its present form,” said Meghan Miller, assistant professor of earth sciences at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, and lead author of the paper. “We’re interested in plate tectonics, and the southeastern Caribbean is interesting because it’s right near a complex plate boundary.”

Everything is Connected

To be able to study the motion of the South American continent and the Caribbean plate, researchers Miller and Thorsten Becker, associate professor of earth sciences at USC Dornsife, had to first model the entire planet. In fact, the pair created 176 models, models that required several weeks at the USC High Performance Computing Center to compute.

“If you can, you want to solve the whole system and then zoom in,” Becker said. “What’s cool about this paper is that we didn’t just run one or two models. We ran a lot, and it allowed us to explore different possibilities for how mantle flow might work.”

“Oceanic plates are relatively simple, but if we want to understand how the Earth works as a system — and how faults evolved and where the flow is going over millions of years — we also have to understand continental plates,” Becker added.

Miller and Becker reconstructed the movement of the planet’s mantle to a depth of just above 3,000 kilometres.

Their research tossed previous hypotheses of the seismic activity beneath the Caribbean Sea out the window and provided an important new insight into the unique tectonic interactions that are behind the Caribbean plate tearing away from South America.

In particular, Miller and Becker point to a part of the South American plate — known as a “cratonic keel” — that is roughly three times thicker than normal lithosphere and much stronger than typical mantle. The keel deflects and channels mantle flow, and provides an important snapshot of the strength of the continents compared to the rest of the Earth’s outer layers.

In the southeastern Caribbean the researchers that the interaction of the subducted plate beneath the Antilles island arc in combination with the stronger continental keel has created the El Pilar-San Sebastian Fault. Miller and Becker believe that similar interactions are the cause of the San Andreas Fault.

“We’re studying the Caribbean, but our models are run for the entire globe,” Miller said. “We can look at similar features in Japan, Southern California and the Mediterranean, anywhere we have instruments to record earthquakes.”

Source: University of Southern California

Planetsave (http://s.tt/1lk9V)

Sunday, August 19, 2012

El Morro, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico - Video

El Morro, Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Uploaded by pixelreflex1 on Feb 18, 2011

The construction of the Fort San Felipe del Morro began in 1539 when King Charles V of Spain authorized its construction, including the surrounding walls. The purpose was to defend the port of San Juan.It was also constructed to control the entry to the harbor. Construction started the same year with a tiny proto-fortress that was "completed" in 1589. This small section comprises perhaps 10% of the structure people see today. In 1587, engineers Juan de Tejada and Juan Bautista Antonelli designed the actual appearance of the castle following well established Spanish military fortification design principles. Similar Spanish fortifications of the 17th-18th centuries can be seen in Cuba, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Veracruz and Acapulco, Mexico, Portobello and Panama City, Panamá,and many other Latin American locations which were governed as part of the Spanish Empire during the Age of Exploration. The first fort of the Americas, Fort San Felipe, was built in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in 1540. Many complex additional new structures were added to El Morro over the next 400 years. The outer walls are six meters thick. In 1680, Governor Enrique Enríquez de Sotomayor begun the construction of the walls surrounding the city of San Juan, which took 48 years. By the late 18th century, El Morro's walls had grown to be 18 feet (5.5 m) thick. Today El Morro has six levels that rise from sea level to 145 feet (44 m) high. All along the walls are seen the dome-covered sentry boxes known as garitas, which have become a cultural symbol of Puerto Rico itself. The El Morro or Port San Juan Light was built atop the fort in 1843, but in 1908, it was replaced by the US military with the current lighthouse. Including the exterior open killing grounds, known as the glacis and esplanade, dominated by cannon in the 17th and 18th centuries, El Morro can be said to take up over 70 acres (280,000 m²).

Category:

Travel & Events

Friday, August 17, 2012

Mike Nova shared El Vocero de Puerto Rico's photo - 2:45 PM 8/17/2012

Mike Nova shared El Vocero de Puerto Rico's photo.

7 hours ago

Culebrita (Foto:boriken365.com)

Thursday, August 16, 2012

8/16/2012 - News Review

8/16/2012

Otra obra olvidada de la #seriedecartón (Taken with Instagram)

via Fotos de Hoy on 8/16/12

Otra obra olvidada de la #seriedecartón (Taken with Instagram)

Spain Vs Puerto Rico 2-1 Goals Highlights (FRIEND) 15-08-2012

via YouTube Videos matching query: puerto rico by MrTvNews10 on 8/15/12

	Spain Vs Puerto Rico 2-1 Goals Highlights (FRIEND) 15-08-2012 Spain Vs Puerto Rico 2-1 All Goals & Highlights Puerto Rico vs spain 1-2 ALL GOALS AND HIGHLIGHTS FULL firendly match 15/8/2012 Tags::real madrid vs barcelona 1-1 16.04.2011 xavi hernandez la pelopina skill dribble andres iniesta victor valdes david villa lionel messi sergio busquets dani alves gerard pique fontas dos santos thiago alcantara la masia ballon dor tiki taka rooney 5-0 1-0 2-0 3-0 4-0 6-0 1-1 2-1 3-1 4-1 5-2 4-2 3-3 barcelona barca real madrid camp nou pedro goal passing leo blaugrana santander sevilla passing game panathinaikos zaragoza ceuta beautiful sevilla kazan camp nou free kick penalty complication new world cup holland germany chile paraguay eric abidal puyol keita yaya toure fc barcelona video HD how to make goal blaugrana 551 rihanna T-pain lil wayne justin bieber F50 la más ligera jugador rápido tv tox Oliver smith-Nimbus(Original mix) crush Schiller mit Mila Mar - Liebe (ATB Dub Remix) FC Barcelona vs RCD Espanyol 18.12.10 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 21.12.10 All goals and FC Barcelona vs Levante UD 02.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club 05.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Deportivo 09.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Málaga CF 16.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Racing 23.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Hercules 30.01.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Athletico Madrid 06.02.11 All goals and highlights FC Barcelona vs Sporting <b>...</b>	From:MrTvNews10 Views:4836 26ratings
	Time:02:41	More inSports

ROSIE PEREZ IS PUERTO RICAN FIRST

via YouTube Videos matching query: puerto rico by ArtisanNewsService on 5/3/07

	ROSIE PEREZ IS PUERTO RICAN FIRST Even though Rosie Perez was born and raised in Brooklyn, she considers herself Puerto Rican first and foremost and wants to show the world the pride of her heritage and history in the documentary I'm Boricua, Just So You Know. "One thing that we tried to explain in the documentary that when you grow up Puerto Rican, you're Puerto Rican first and foremost and that even before you understand your history there is a pride that is instilled in you. So that's what I mean when you're Puerto Rican, you're just Puerto Rican. And the pride that your parents had just comes down and then when you get older you start to learn the history and then the pride increases. It does enforce or dictate who you...	From:ArtisanNewsService Views:23322 69ratings
	Time:03:14	More inNews & Politics

To Err is Human…

via Puerto Rico Report by hadeninteractive on 8/8/12

People make mistakes, of course. Even a respected news sources such as Reuters can make an error — and they did. In their “schedule of forthcoming world elections” they listed Puerto Rico’s plebescite for August 12th.
As you can see in the close-up below, Reuters claimed that Puerto Rican voters would decide the first question — whether or not to make a change in the status of Puerto Rico — on August 12th.
Only if voters chose to make a change, they continued, would there be a November election on the second question.
We checked the facts with leaders in Puerto Rico, and we are assured that this is not the case. The election, including both the questions, which you can see on our homepage, will take place in November as planned. For details, you can read the text of Law 283 in PDF form.
We understand that people make mistakes. We’re surprised by this particular mistake, however.
For one thing, this is not a typo. It’s not someone hastily writing “August” when they meant “November.”

This is a completely different plan for the election: two votes instead of one, divided by several months. It would mean that all discussion of potential statehood for Puerto Rico, or of independence, could safely be tabled till after that initial vote.
For another, Puerto Rico’s election is not just another “world election.” It is a vote taking place in a U.S. territory, a vote which could lead to the formation of the 51st state in the Union. It seems like something the news mavens at Reuters would have clearly enough in mind that they wouldn’t make such a striking mistake about the details.
Is it time for mainland media to take this issue more seriously? Perhaps we should be having serious national discussion on the potential effects of the various possible outcomes of the plebescite. Perhaps we should be taking this particular vote, which could have far-reaching consequences for our nation as well as for Puerto Rico, with enough seriousness that major news sources would feel a need to check their facts.

Representing 3.7 Million U.S. Citizens in Congress – All Without the Power to Vote, Part II

via Puerto Rico Report by KG on 8/10/12

Previously when we reported on why Puerto Rico’s lack of representation in Congress matters, we focused on how important it is to have several Members of Congress to best represent ideological diversity in heavily populated states. States with many Members of Congress have another significant advantage: the ability to represent the state across numerous congressional committees.
Despite its population of 3.7 million U.S. citizens, Puerto Ricans are represented by a single, non-voting Resident Commissioner, Pedro Pierluisi (D), who serves on three committees: Ethics, Judiciary, and Natural Resources. Consequently, Puerto Ricans have no direct say on any legislation that could impact them unless it comes before one of these three committees.
Oregon, a state of comparable size to Puerto Rico, enjoys the representation of five Members of Congress and two Senators. In the House of Representatives, Oregon’s delegation together has a voice on nine different committees, including Agriculture, Budget, Transportation & Infrastructure, Small Business, and committees handling taxes and health care. Oregon’s two Senators together serve on half of the Senate’s twenty committees.
Iowa also has broad committee representation. The state’s five representatives are members on ten of the House’s twenty-five committees, covering issues related to agriculture, the armed services, appropriations, oversight, infrastructure, transportation, small businesses, and veterans affairs. In the Senate, Senators Charles Grassley (R) and Tom Harkin (D) are members of nine committees, and Iowans enjoy concentrated representation by both of their senators on the Agriculture Committee, as area of significant importance to Iowa’s economy.
Normally, a state’s delegation works together as a team across all the committees where they have a collective presence to help their constituents. Puerto Rico’s sole Resident Commissioner is confined to representing the territory on only three committees – a factor that reduces the voices of Puerto Ricans in Washington.

For a recent example of why committee membership is so important, see our previous article about nutrition assistance in Puerto Rico.

Puerto Ricans’ Growing Influence in Florida and Presidential Politics

via Puerto Rico Report by KG on 8/15/12

Florida may soon surpass New York as the state with the most Puerto Ricans, and with this growth has come significant political implications.

In Florida, the Puerto Rican population has ballooned over the last decade, expanding from 482,027 in 2000 to 847,550 in 2010, a growth rate of 75 percent.
Meanwhile, New York’s Puerto Rican population held relatively steady, going from 1,050,293 people in 2000 to 1,070, 558 in 2010 according to Census data, and increase of only 1.9 percent.
Puerto Ricans are the second largest Hispanic population in Florida after Cubans, and the Puerto Rican growth rate over the last decade has dwarfed the Cuban growth rate of 45 percent. There are nearly 100,00 Puerto Ricans living in Miami-Dade County alone, and more than 156,000 in Orange County. It is not surprising that recent presidential campaigns have concentrated more heavily on Puerto Ricans in Orlando and along the I-4 Corridor than in the heavily Cuban Miami area.
The growing presence of Puerto Ricans in Florida is especially significant because Florida is considered to be a presidential swing state. Democrats and Republicans alike have been courting Florida Hispanics – and Puerto Ricans in particular – for their votes in the upcoming presidential election. In fact, President Obama’s 2011 visit to Puerto Rico, where residents are unable to vote for President, is widely viewed as an attempt to actually garner the political support of Puerto Ricans in Florida (and, to a lesser extent, Pennsylvania, New York and other states).
Both Presidential candidates have been joined by Puerto Rican leaders as they campaign in Florida. In January, Mitt Romney earned the endorsement of Governor Luis Fortuno, who affiliates with the Puerto Rican statehood New Progressive Party (NPP) as well as the national Republican Party. Romney and Fortuno appeared together in Orlando in the days leading up to the Florida Republican primary.
Earlier this month, President Obama campaigned in Central Florida with Puerto Rico Secretary of State Kenneth McClintock, of the statehood New Progressive Party (NPP), and gubernatorial candidate Alejandro García Padilla, of the Popular Democratic Party (PDP). Despite their different positions on the status issue, both men affiliate with the national Democratic Party.

A cruise for people that love parrots

via Puerto Rico Newswire on 4/17/10

Parrot lovers can cruise and see parrots while sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 7 - 14, 2010 in the Caribbean Princess .

Dominant Spain beat Puerto Rico 2-1

via Puerto Rico Newswire on 8/15/12

World and European champions Spain missed a glut of scoring chances but still completed a 2-1 victory over lowly Puerto Rico in their international friendly on Wednesday.

Houston immigrants apply for deferred action program

via Puerto Rico News on 8/15/12

Gabriela Fajardo, 15, smiles as she waits next in line to process her passport at the Honduran Consulate and apply for relief under a new Obama Administration policy that suspends deportation for immigrants brought to the country at a young age on Wednesday, Aug.

See more of Mike Nova's starred items ...

Violent and Deadly Weekend for Puerto Rico

via Puerto Rico News on 8/14/12

Eighteen people, among them a U.S. military veteran, were murdered last weekend in Puerto Rico , raising the murder count on the island so far this year to 595, police said Monday.

Massachusetts Fugitive Surrenders In Puerto Rico

via Puerto Rico News on 8/15/12

A man from the Dominican Republic who is wanted in Massachusetts on drug and assault charges has turned himself in to authorities in Puerto Rico SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - A man from the Dominican Republic who is wanted in Massachusetts on drug and assault charges has turned himself in to authorities in Puerto Rico.

Cocaine 'treasure island' found off Puerto Rico

via Puerto Rico News on 8/14/12

FAJARDO, Puerto Rico -- Federal and state law enforcement agencies in Puerto Rico recently uncovered a "hidden treasure" consisting of approximately 18 pounds of bricked cocaine buried in an area protected by Fish and Wild Life Reserve at the Municipal Island of Culebra, Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico: An “Activated” Space for School Athletics

via Global Voices » Puerto Rico (U.S.) by Marianna Breytman on 8/16/12

Much has been said in Puerto Rico about the fact that the key to creating a better society is investing in our youth, creating spaces and opportunities so that they can express themselves — whether it be in the arts or in sports — and so that they have a place to channel their energy in a beneficial way.
This is precisely what photojournalist José Jiménez is doing with his project, Activao [es] (slang for the Spanish term “activado,” which means “activated”). This website is the only space in Puerto Rico dedicated entirely to school athletics, where young people can get professional photos taken of their performances in sports, which include swimming, basketball, ball playing, volleyball, athleticism, and soccer, among others. In the company of his two faithful canine friends, Maximiliana and Mila, Jiménez spoke in detail about what exactly the Activao project is:

José Jiménez (JJ): Parte de una premisa que es una plataforma donde es un contenido puramente positivo, para tener como un espacio donde la juventud se coja un break de toda esta información negativa que, por la razón que sea, están siendo bombardeados constantemente por los medios tradicionales. Aquí siempre se ha hablado mucho de que las noticias positivas no venden y yo he probado que eso es falso. […] No es que no se cubra la parte negativa. Yo lo que creo es que se le da demasiado protagonismo a la criminalidad en los medios. […] Entonces, yo parto de esa parte, de crear un espacio que sea un proyecto social para la juventud. Ese es el fin del proyecto.

José Jiménez (JJ): [It's] part of a premise that it is a platform where there is purely positive content, to have a space where young people take a break from all of this negative information that, for whatever reason, traditional media is constantly bombarding them with. Here we have always talked about this idea that positive news does not sell, and I have proved that this is false. […] It's not to ignore the negative part either. What I think is that the media gives too much prominence to criminality. […] So I'm starting from that part, to create a space that is a social project for the youth. That is the goal of the project.

Activao has existed since 2010, but José says that the project has really only been developing for closer to one year, not counting the months it was inactive. Nevertheless, the project has truly caught the attention of much of the public:

JJ: Nosotros empezamos en octubre de 2010 […] Tenemos sobre 15,000 friends en Facebook. Sobre 85,000 personas han visto la página. El primer año […] toda la plataforma era en Facebook. Yo vine a abrir la web en abril del 2011. La web, de abril de 2011 hasta hoy, la han visto sobre 85,000 personas. Pero esa web estuvo bien inactiva de abril a octubre del año pasado, porque todo yo lo hacía en Facebook. De agosto 2011 hasta ahora, que es prácticamente un año, es que en verdad esa web ha estado activa. […] Así que el primer año fuimos una plataforma puramente Facebook y social media, y el segundo año estuvimos en la web y se posteaba en Facebook.

JJ: We started in October 2010 […] We have around 15,000 friends on Facebook. Around 85,000 people have visited the page. The first year […] the entire platform was on Facebook. I came to open the website in April 2011. The website, from April 2011 until today, has had over 85,000 visitors. But that website has been pretty inactive from April to October of last year, because I made it on Facebook. From August 2011 until now, which is practically one year, is when the website has actually been active. […] So the first year we were a social media platform purely on Facebook, and the second year we had our own website in addition to posting on Facebook.

Interestingly enough, the project exists on different platforms online, each one as if a branch from the same tree, taking you to another branch:

JJ: Yo aproveché la plataforma de Facebook para crecer. […] Yo uso Twitter, pero es simplemente para anunciar que se posteó una nueva galería. Yo no pongo ningún tipo de mensaje. Es simplemente para los followers que tengo en Twitter que ellos se enteren que yo acabo de postear una galería y ellos pueden ver.

JJ: I took advantage of Facebook's platform to grow. […] I use Twitter, but it's simply to announce when a new [photo] gallery has been posted. I don't post any messages there. It's just for the followers I have on Twitter to be aware of when I post a gallery so that they can see it.

Photo by José Jiménez (©). Used with permission.

With respect to the minimal presence that the coverage of school athletics has in traditional media, I commented that, after having seen his website and having been able to appreciate the large quantity of activity that there is in this field, it seemed strange to me that other forms of media did not pay as much attention to this as one might imagine:

JJ: No lo ves porque es una costumbre. Yo lo veo así porque aquí se habla mucho de las tres b: baloncesto, béisbol y boxeo. […] Los medios les pasa una cosa: las sociedades de deportes han perdido mucho su espacio y su protagonismo. Aunque, esto está cambiando, porque cibernéticamente, las secciones de deporte han ganado un auge […] pero en el print, con el tiempo, han bajado el espacio. Entonces, ellos han acostumbrado a sus lectores a las tres b. […] Todos los medios tradicionales cubren deportes escolares, pero es muy poco. […] Por lo menos una vez a la semana sacan una notita. Y ahora con el espacio cibernético, pues ponen un poquito más.

JJ: You don't see it because it has become common [no to cover these sports]. I see it that way because here, people often talk about the three b's: basketball, baseball, and boxing. […] One thing in particular is happening in the media: sports sections have lost their space and prominence quite a bit. Even though this is changing, because sports sections have gained traction online […] but in print, over time, space has decreased. Therefore, they made their readers accustomed to the three b's. […] All traditional media outlets cover school athletics, but on a very small scale. […] At least once a week there is a small bit of news. And now with online spaces, well, they report a bit more.

With school athletics having such a small presence in other forms of the media, I ask him how they learn about events that can be covered for Activao:

JJ: Son tantos, que no es difícil enterarse. Yo no sabía que había tanto deporte escolar. […] Y ya la gente, pues me conoce y constantemente en el wall del Facebook los nenes están posteando […] y ellos piden que Activao los cubra.

JJ: There are so many, that it isn't difficult to find them. I did not know that there were so many school sports. […] And now people already know me and kids are constantly posting on the Facebook wall […] and they ask Activao to cover them.

Talking a bit about future plans for Activao, José reveals that he would like to expand what he does to go beyond solely photographing sports:

JJ: A la larga, me gustaría producir eventos para seguir creando plataformas positivas para la juventud. […] Yo me he dado cuenta que a la juventud, si tú no le haces algo diferente, no le va a llamar la atención. Ellos están tan y tan bombardeados de tanta información y mucha de esta información se le presenta de manera bastante repetitiva.

JJ: Eventually, I would like to produce events to continue creating positive platforms for the youth. […] I have realized that, for young people, if you don't do something different it's not going to get their attention. They are bombarded with so much information, and so much of this information is presented to them in quite a repetitive manner.

José ends with his thoughts on social media networks, particularly Facebook:

JJ: Facebook es la plataforma más impresionante que hay ahora mismo para informar al público. No hay nada, nunca ha habido nada como Facebook. Y en Puerto Rico se va a mantener así por mucho tiempo. […] 50% de todos los jóvenes que tienen Internet que tienen una cuenta de Facebook en Estados Unidos […] ven noticias por Facebook, no van a las páginas. […] Los periódicos migran su gente de su Facebook al periódico. […] Para mí Facebook es sinónimo de pregonero; él te entrega la noticia. […] Eso no lo hace nadie. En términos de medios, es el pregonero más eficiente del mundo. […] Eso es lo increíble de Facebook. Nada en el mundo es tan eficiente como eso.

JJ: Facebook is the most impressive platform that is out there right now for keeping the public informed. There is nothing, nor has there ever been anything, like Facebook. And in Puerto Rico it's going to stay this way for a long time. […] 50% of all young people who have the Internet and have a Facebook account in the United States […] read the news on Facebook, they do not go to the websites. […] Newspapers move their people from Facebook to the newspaper. […] For me, Facebook is synonymous with the “town crier”, they deliver the news to you. […] This is not done by just anyone. In terms of the media, it is the most efficient town crier in the world. […] That is what is so incredible about Facebook. No one in the world is as efficient as them.

Written by Ángel Carrión · Translated by Marianna Breytman · View original post [es] · comments (0)
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Puerto Rico: Jaime Espinal's Silver Medal Makes History

via Global Voices » Puerto Rico (U.S.) by Chellsy Alis Manning on 8/14/12

This post is part of our special coverage of the London 2012 Olympics.
On 11 August 2012 Jaime Yusept Espinal became the second medallist for Puerto Rico in the London 2012 Olympic Games, after Javier Culson's bronze medal. Espinal, born in the Dominican Republic, won his historic silver medal in the final of the 84 kilo division freestyle wrestling. He wrestled against Sharif Sharifov of Azerbaijan who then went on to win the gold medal. There was a tie for third place and the bronze medal between Dato Mrsagishvili of Georgia and Ehsan Lashgari of Iran.
It is the first time that Puerto Rico has reached a final in wrestling and the first time that they have won an Olympic medal in this sport. This medal is also the second Olympic medal that the country has won in a sport that is not boxing. Puerto Rico now has six bronze medals (five in boxing and one in athletics) and two silver (one in boxing and one in wrestling) making a total of eight Olympic medals.
The euphoria was clear on Twitter since early in the morning. The hashtag #JaimeEspinal became a trending topic on a global scale as soon as it was known that Puerto Rico were guaranteed a silver medal and that there was a possibility for a gold medal. Once the result of the final was known, Jaime Espinal again became a trending topic.
Emotions were running high with Twitter users celebrating Puerto Rico's silver medal in the freestyle wrestling event:

‏@myma27: Y nos quedamos con la #Plata con la misma emoción y orgullo. #JaimeEspinal eres otro #OrgulloBoricua! GRACIAS por esta medalla! #PUR :')) <3

@myma27: So we have the #Plata (silver) with the same excitement and pride. #JaimeEspinal You are something else! #OrgulloBoricua (Puerto Rico Pride). THANK YOU for this medal! #PUR :')) <3

‏@belenguis: #JaimeEspinal gracias por esa de plata

‏@belenguis: #JaimeEspinal thank you for this silver

@‏20_dariana: Una medalla de plata no es nada facil de lograr #OrgulloBoricua #JaimeEspinal!

@‏20_dariana: A silver medal is not an easy thing to win#OrgulloBoricua #JaimeEspinal!

‏@jrvesco: #JaimeEspinal: gracias por la medalla!!! Pusiste a Puerto Rico en alto!

@jrvesco: #JaimeEspinal: thank you for the medal!!! You have put Puerto Rico on the map!

‏@xero94: Excelente combate de #JaimeEspinal ORGULLO BORICUA Y DEL CARIBE! #Plata

@xero94: excellent final from #JaimeEspinal PUERTO RICAN AND CARIBBEAN PRIDE! #Plata(Silver)

‏@PedVidSa: Fue de Plata pero para todo Puerto Rico fue de ORO Felicidades a #JaimeEspinal En hora buena…

@PedVidSa: It was silver but for everyone in Puerto Rico it was GOLD congratulations go to #JaimeEspinal Well done…

‏@JLebronMillan: Por poco se me Sale el Corazón! #JaimeEspinal medalla de plata que vale como ORO! Felicitaciones!!!

@JLebronMillan: My heart is in my mouth! #JaimeEspinal the silver medal is the same as GOLD! Congratulations!!!

Franklin Gómez
The wrestler Franklin Gómez was eliminated after fighting for the bronze medal in the 60 kilo event against Yogeshwawa Dutt of India. Gómez had a good chance of winning a medal, but these hopes were dashed after he contracted the flu which meant that he almost did not make it for his first fight against the Russian Besik Kudukhov.
Although he felt weaker than usual, the fighters were leveled after the first period. However, Kudukhov won the next two rounds in the close fight. When Kudukhov reached the final, it was known that Gómez still had the chance to compete for the bronze medal against Dutt.
The first two rounds saw the fighters drawing 0-0, which meant that the fight would go on to a draw to see who would have the advantage of having the first attacking movement with the other not being able to defend. In both occasions Dutt won the draw and was overall the victor.
Whatever the result of the final fight, Gómez was always one of the favourites to win a medal and he was always at the height of his game and gave everything - even with the flu. Jaime Espinal and Franklin Gómez are the first to compete for Puerto Rico in Olympic wrestling after three consecutive Olympic games without fielding a competitor in the freestyle wrestling event.
This post is part of our special coverage of the London 2012 Olympics.

*Cover photograph by Quique Aparicio, courtesy of the Olympic Committee of Puerto Rico.

Written by Ángel Carrión · Translated by Chellsy Alis Manning · View original post [es] · comments (0)
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Puerto Rico: Urban Artists “La Pandilla”

via Global Voices » Puerto Rico (U.S.) by Firuzeh Shokooh Valle on 8/10/12

El Punto features [es] the amazing urban street art by Alexis Díaz and Juan Fernández from Puerto Rico, AKA “La Pandilla.”
Written by Firuzeh Shokooh Valle · comments (0)
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Puerto Rico: Festival of the Hammock

via Global Voices » Puerto Rico (U.S.) by Firuzeh Shokooh Valle on 8/10/12

Auralís Herrero-Lugo writes about her trip [es] with a group of friends to the town of San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, to go to the famous 32nd Festival of the Hammock, a traditional event where artisans show their amazing craft of making hammocks.
Written by Firuzeh Shokooh Valle · comments (0)
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POBLACIÓN AUTISTA ADULTA

via Opinión - El Nuevo Día on 8/13/12

POBLACIÓN AUTISTA ADULTA

Lymarimar Rivera (16 años; estudiante de la Escuela del Deporte de San Juan)El pasado 2 de abril de 2012, El Nuevo Día publicó una noticia sobre la inauguración de un centro de autismo ubicado en el hospital público Centro Médico de Río Piedras. Me llamó

SIN FUTURO LOS JÓVENES

Ninoshka M. León (Estudiante del RUM de la Universidad de Puerto Rico)Los adolescentes de hoy no tienen remedio. Eso es lo que escucho a mi alrededor a diario de parte de adultos: los jóvenes no tienen futuro. Y es algo que, como joven y aunque deb

1386

1996

1952

2719

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EL RECIBIMIENTO DE UN PAÍS AGRADECIDO

via Opinión - El Nuevo Día on 8/14/12

EL RECIBIMIENTO DE UN PAÍS AGRADECIDO

El País recibe hoy agradecido a su delegación olímpica que, con la medalla de plata de Jaime Espinal, la de bronce de Javier Culson, la sexta posición del gimnasta Tommy Ramos en las anillas y la actuación notable de los demás atletas y técnicos, cinceló en los XXX Juegos de Londres el mejor desempeño de Puerto Rico en la historia.

La consulta a lo Chomsky

SILVERIO PÉREZNoam Chomsky es un lingüista y filósofo norteamericano que ha sido reconocido como uno de los pensadores más importantes de nuestros tiempos. Escribió las diez estrategias de manip

El derecho absoluto a la fianza

RODOLFO E. CHACÓN CHALUISÁNautorPartiendo de la premisa de que el derecho absoluto a la fianza es un principio constitucional, el cual establece que todo acusado debe contar con una presunción de inocencia h

140

Huáscar Robles CarrasquilloTuiteísmo. Debería ser un deporte: la habilidad innata de comunicar ideas virtualmente innecesarias en un récord de 140 caracteres. Sería genial darle medallas a quienes no compite

¿Para qué queremos medallas?

Felicito a Javier Culson, a Jaime Espinal y al resto del equipo que nos representó en las Olimpiadas. En estos días nuestro pueblo se ha desbordado en elogios para Javier y Jaime y, no es para menos, lograron brillar en el mundo del deporte olímpico, gracias a su esfuerzo y al apoyo que le brindaron aquellos que creyeron en ellos.
Para muchos era desconocido la calidad de nuestro equipo, por que estamos en el limbo, por que estamos más pendientes de ver La comay y otros chismes televisivos o, sencillamente, no les importa lo que sucede en el deporte.
Ahora reclaman esas medallas como si fueran de ellos. Pues no, no les pertenecen a los indiferentes que no prestan de su tiempo para ayudar a nuestros niños y a nuestra juventud. No les pertenecen a los politiqueros que difaman a otros y que cuando el Comité Olímpico local necesita dinero, se lo niegan. Tampoco a aquellos que no desarrollan programas en pro del deporte puertorriqueño ni para los alcaldes que dejan las facilidades deportivas en constante deterioro, y ahora quieren posar junto a los medallistas olímpicos.
Tampoco merecen reclamar esas medallas los que no tienen sentido patrio, los que nos enajenan diariamente, restringen los derechos y oprimen con sus políticas y fascismo social. Tampoco merecen esas medallas aquellas empresas que fueron mudas cuando alguien se les acercó a pedir una contribución económica.
Para merecer medallas, de oro, plata y bronce, necesitamos evaluarnos como pueblo y dar la milla extra con hechos. Puerto Rico, se superara cuando pensemos, actuemos y realmente nos sintamos puertorriqueños.
Reinaldo Acevedo
Las Piedras

Lección al coI

La medalla de plata de Jaime Espinal le da una dura lección al Comité Olímpico (COI) y a los auspiciadores de los atletas que no le dieron ninguna publicidad.
En comparación con Javier Culson, casi no invirtieron dinero en él para entrenar. El gobernador Luis Fortuño no fue a ver las peleas con su mamá y fueron pocos los fanáticos que fueron a ver la pelea en vivo. Sin embargo, Espinal respondió.
No importa de dónde sea, representaba a nuestro país y, a diferencia de otros que nos han representado en otros deportes en el pasado, al menos habla español.
Muchas felicidades a Jaime Espinal y a su familia. Esperemos que ahora se haga justicia con él y que no se deje utilizar por los políticos de este país que, seguramente, lo van a estar esperando en el aeropuerto para tener una foto con él y usarla en sus anuncios políticos.
Héctor Zaragoza

Asalto a la comisión estatal de elecciones

Inscribir tres partidos políticos adicionales es una forma de lucrarse con licencia. Por ejemplo el MUS (Movimiento Unión Soberanista) crea su liderato, aunque ficticio, y al otro día hace alianzas con el Partido Popular Democrático (PPD). Esto demuestra que ese partido se compone de populares que se avergüenzan de serlo y otros a los que el Partido Independentista Puertorriqueño (PIP) botó.
Botaron a Enrique Vázquez Quintana, que era estadista, para tener el camino libre para el traqueteo. Con esta alianza, el PPD adquiere el dinero de estos partidos simbólicos y llena su pote para hacer campaña contra el PNP y el PIP. Lo que falta es que el PIP preste su voto nuevamente al PPD y no quede inscrito.
Rafael VelÁzquez
Aguas Buenas

“NO” a LIMItar la fianza

Digo no a limitar la fianza porque no estoy dispuesta a que me quiten más derechos de los que ya el gobierno ha quitado. No hay estudio que demuestre que eso resolverá el problema.
El problema está en los hogares, en los padres que no se ocupan de sus hijos, que no les enseñan a ser ciudadanos de bien, que no apoyan a los maestros y, en cambio, se vanaglorian cuando su hijo les falta el respeto.
El problema es el gobierno, que mientras gasta dinero en cosas banales no lo invierte en la educación de los jóvenes, ni en deportes.
Sí, es cierto que los jueces deberían ser más estrictos en la imposición de la fianza, pero en nuestro país somos inocentes hasta que se demuestre lo contrario.
Más herramientas para los policías, los fiscales. Es increíble que en mi país se gaste más por un preso que por un estudiante. Si vamos a quitar algún derecho que sea a los presos, para que no les quede ningún deseo de volver a cometer un delito.
Digo no a la reducción de la legislatura, porque ya voté por una legislatura unicameral y el partido de turno no respetó mi derecho. Disminuirán la cantidad, pero ganarán más dinero. Es politiquería total, no habrá parcialidad en las decisiones tomadas.
No permitamos que con las palabras y caras lindas de nuestros políticos nos engañen. Lean, busquen información al respecto, no se trata de colores, nuestros derechos no son rojos, azules, ni verdes. Nuestros derechos son neutrales. Por esto y muchas cosas más el 19 de agosto vota no.
Yezi Alemán
Vega Alta

Dígalo Así

Para indicar los siglos, se utiliza la numeración romana. Ejemplo: siglo XXI (no siglo 21).

1633

2256

2205

2960

¿Apruebas la visita de la selección española de fútbol para jugar en Puerto Rico?

Sí, porque los futbolistas locales pueden aprender mucho y fomentan afición.

No, porque con el dinero que se gastan en traerlos podrían emplearlo en desarrollar a deportistas olímpicos.

Sí, porque le da visibilidad internacional a Puerto Rico

No, porque no puedo darme el lujo de ir al evento por el precio de las taquillas.

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PROPUESTA ONEROSA Y ANTIDEMOCRÁTICA

via Opinión - El Nuevo Día on 8/15/12

PROPUESTA ONEROSA Y ANTIDEMOCRÁTICA

La propuesta de un mero recorte de escaños legislativos a considerarse en el referéndum constitucional el domingo debe ser derrotada, porque, sin representar ahorro para el fisco, suma poder a la partidocracia y restringe aun más las opciones de representación de los movimientos ciudadanos y partidos minoritarios en la Asamblea Legislativa.

Fianza versus dignidad

ENRIQUE CRUZLa primera oración del Artículo 2 sección 1 de nuestra Constitución en la Carta de Derechos habla sobre el derecho inviolable a la dignidad. Al buscar la definición de dignidad nos

Oasis

Ileán Pérez CruzDice Roberto Bolaño que “para salir del aburrimiento, para escapar del punto muerto, lo único que tenemos a mano, y no tan a mano, es el horror, es decir el mal”. Bolaño, autor de

Evaluación objetiva de las Olimpiadas

En un país donde toda inversión gubernamental es cuestionada, puesta en duda, ridiculizada o menospreciada en acuerdo con el color o ideología política es necesario que tratemos, libres de apasionamientos, efectuar esta evaluación urgentemente.
En un excelente artículo investigativo de El Nuevo Día, la semana pasada se informó que el gobierno invirtió la friolera de $40 millones en cuatro años para desarrollo deportivo. ¿El resultado? Dos medallas olímpicas.
En un país donde se critica continuamente la falta de fondos para seguridad, salud, educación o proyectos de infraestructura relevantes, esta cantidad invertida versus sus resultados es totalmente inaceptable e inadmisible.
Realmente tenemos nuestras prioridades invertidas. Si este fuera el resultado en una empresa privada, desde el CEO hacia abajo, toda la plana mayor gerencial sería cesanteada de inmediato. Y por favor no vengan a arroparse con la bandera. Los mismos que son críticos de la falta de fondos para muchísimas cosas más importantes que el deporte, son los principales defensores de este despilfarro de fondos públicos.
Que la legislatura no dé un dólar más hasta que no le provean un informe detallado, crítico y realista. Y que se evalúe con seriedad y detenimiento. Que se tomen las decisiones difíciles o antipáticas que haya que tomar. Este gobierno se ha distinguido por tener ese valor. Que lo vuelva a refrendar para el deporte, sin amiguismos, politiquería ni temores.
Que solamente se les provea estipendios a atletas elite probados. Los que quieran llegar ahí, que se prueben. Nada de marcas “b” para las olimpiadas. Solo marcas “a”.
Cero turistas olímpicos como fue la gran mayoría de los que nos representaron. Y todavía Luis Dieppa, vicepresidente de la Federación de Atletismo de Puerto Rico, tiene la osadía de pedir más dinero sin resultados que lo ameriten. Increíble.
Edgar O. Vélez
San Juan

mENOS LEGISLADORES

Puerto Rico tiene leyes que nadie implementa. En vez de tantos legisladores vamos a usar ese dinero para implementar leyes, para esclarecer crímenes, para mejorar nuestra sociedad.
Muy pocos legisladores aportan a nuestro bienestar sin embargo, tiene sueldos, dietas, chofer y ayudantes y secretarias. Ganan mucho más que el 75% de los ciudadanos en Puerto Rico.
Votemos por candidatura, por los que quieren un Puerto Rico mejor. Los partidos protegen a buenos y malos porque son parte del gremio.
Esto es un ejercicio de votación de dos partes: menos legisladores y votar por candidatura. Los dos van de la mano para un mejor Puerto Rico.
Marisa A. GonzÁlez-López
San Juan

En ambas votaré “No”

El pueblo no se ha percatado del error tan grande que cometerían de votar a favor en ambas enmiendas. Si votan afirmativo permitirán que eliminen las minorías. Ganando Cámara y Senado se aprueba cuanta barrabasada se inventan, imagínense siendo todos mayoría. Con reducir el tamaño de la Legislatura no ganaremos nada. No reduzcan el tamaño, reduzcan los gastos.
En cuanto a la enmienda a la fianza eso es un fronte para decir que están haciendo algo. Los ‘carjackings’ siguen siendo un delito federal. Los ataques a policías, eso no amedrenta a nadie. Lo que lo pasa es que al gobierno le gusta “el juey sacao”, no mete la mano a la cueva ni pa’ Dios.
Yo también votaré “no” en ambas propuestas.
José R. González
Caguas

SIN TITULO

Tarde mágica con la Orquesta Filarmónica
La Orquesta Filarmónica de Puerto Rico se merece una gran ovación de todo Puerto Rico por el Concierto Mágico de Disney que presentó en Bellas Artes, el pasado domingo.
La calidad del sonido, el repertorio, el montaje de luces y audiovisual y, sobre todo, la emoción y cohesión con la cual los casi 60 miembros de la orquesta tocaron fue digno de los mejores escenarios del mundo. Traer la música de Disney a Puerto Rico atrajo muchos niños, que se mantuvieron callados y escuchando inspiradamente la música de sus películas favoritas.
A mi hija de cinco años le brillaban los ojos de la emoción. Pareciera que la melodía se le metía a uno por dentro y el publico que abarrotó la Sala de Festivales estaba como hipnotizado. Además, los arreglos se notaban sumamente practicados y perfectos.
Se merece un gran honor la Orquesta, dirigida por el maestro Rafael Enrique Irizarry, por su gran talento. Son esos eventos los que despiertan en los niños un amor por la música que les dura una vida entera, como despertó en mí un musical que vi a los cinco años y no he parado de tocar piano desde entonces.
Exhorto a que continúen persiguiendo estos éxitos y puedan regalarle a los puertorriqueños más música y entretenimiento de calidad. Fue una tarde mágica que me llenó de orgullo que se diera en mi Isla. ¡Enhorabuena!
Federico Stubbe, hijo
Dorado

En español se escribe Kioto (no Kyoto).

1898

2631

2540

3241

¿Qué te pareció el recibimiento que se le dio a la delegación olímpica?

Histórico

Excesivo

No se compara con los que recibió Tito Trinidad

Sobraron los políticos

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que sea el inicio de la austeridad real

via Opinión - El Nuevo Día on 8/16/12

que sea el inicio de la austeridad real

La derogación de los aumentos salariales automáticos a los legisladores constituyó un paso de rectificación por parte de éstos que debería servir para abrir camino a otros reajustes, como la revocación del andamiaje de excesos fiscales y de privilegios que predomina desde hace décadas en el Poder Legislativo.

LA CONSTITUCIÓN NO NOS HA FALLADO

ROGELIO FIGUEROAEl partido Puertorriqueños por Puerto Rico (PPR) está en contra de la reforma constitucional para eliminar el derecho absoluto a la fianza y reducir los escaños de la Legislatura.

NO Y NO

ARTURO HERNÁNDEZEl 19 de agosto el pueblo de Puerto Rico está convocado a las urnas para participar en un referéndum, donde estamos enfrentando dos propuestas de enmienda a nuestra Constitución.

ALEJANDRO GARCÍA PADILLAEn el referéndum del domingo voy a votar que sí en las dos preguntas. Fortuño trata desesperadamente de sacarle al referéndum cuanta ventaja política puede. Para mí ese no es probl

JUAN DALMAUEste próximo domingo, 19 de agosto, los electores deben acudir a votarle en contra a dos peligrosas propuestas de enmienda constitucional. A la misma vez, manifestar, votando dos

RAFAEL BERNABEPocas veces se nos ha mentido tanto como en las enmiendas sobre la fianza y la Legislatura. Se dice que limitar la fianza reducirá la criminalidad. No es cierto. Se dice que para a

Medalla de oro para los grandes ausentes

Luego de ver el recibimiento a la delegación puertorriqueña que nos representó en las olimpiadas Londres 2012, vemos a los grandes ausentes; los padres de estos jóvenes que son los que se sacrifican día a día para ver cumplido el sueño de sus hijos.
Que merecido y hermoso hubiera sido que cada uno de estos atletas estuviera acompañado de sus padres al momento de presentarse a los medios a su llegada al aeropuerto. Si alguien merece reconocimiento, además de los atletas, son estos padres cuyo esfuerzo, dedicación y sacrificio son vitales en los logros de sus hijos.
No obstante, vemos a ciertos políticos ahora acercándose a nuestros atletas como si hubiesen estado ahí durante todo el trayecto dándole la mano. Esperemos que la gesta lograda por estos jóvenes sirva para que se asignen más fondos y recursos que facilite la labor de todos estos sacrificados padres.
Nuestros atletas se acaban de convertir en el esfuerzo, la voluntad y la gloria de todo un país, Puerto Rico. Y, más aun, de todos esos padres que con su sacrificio y esfuerzo, hoy ven el fruto germinado.
Esperemos que este gran triunfo de nuestros atletas sea un triunfo que aúna a todos los puertorriqueños en ese orgullo patrio que se siente con tan honroso logro.
Felicitaciones a todos esos padres que con su trabajo y sacrificio entregan todo su corazón y empeño en ver cumplido el sueño de sus hijos. Para todos esos padres, la medalla de oro por toda su dedicación.
Randy Martell
Bayamón

Invasión de equinos

Los residentes de la urbanización Extensión Praderas de Ceiba Norte II, de Juncos, estamos confrontando problemas con varios caballos, al parecer sin dueños, que se han apropiado de nuestros patios. Es de todos conocido que estos animales son portadores de garrapatas y de otras enfermedades que pueden afectar nuestra salud, al igual que la de nuestras mascotas. Además, tengo entendido que varios automóviles han sufrido daños.
También dentro de la urbanización hay varios perros que se dedican a romper las bolsas de basura y a voltear los zafacones.
Hacemos un llamado a las autoridades pertinentes, especialmente, a las municipales para que tomen acción al respecto.
Manuel Esguerra
Juncos

Sin aire el Pediátrico de Arecibo

Hace año y medio que el acondicionador de aire del Centro Pediátrico, en Arecibo, no funciona lo que es una tortura para los infantes y niños que acuden para ser atendidos como para los empleados. El personal médico y clerical hacen lo indecible por atender los casos bajo las pésimas condiciones dentro de unas facilidades que carecen, de ventilación regular. No se puede entender cómo el gobierno invierte el dinero en cosas extravagantes y superfluas mientras a los niños en este Centro se les tortura sin compasión.
Por su parte, el Departamento de Salud se hace de la vista larga con este atropello que crea ansiedad y daño a la salud de los aludidos. El secretario de Salud, Lorenzo González, tiene la palabra por el bien de nuestros niños.
Charlie Aguilar
Hatillo

“NO” a los asesinos de mi inteligencia

Este próximo domingo al acudir a las urnas, no le estaré quitando el derecho a ningún asesino; esos no tienen fianza, van derechitos a la cárcel.
La fianza es un derecho que tenemos todos si nos acusan de asesinato -los culpables y los que no lo somos-. ¿O es que todavía existe quien piensa que no se fabrican casos ni testigos?
Lo que verdaderamente hacemos si votamos “Sí” es renunciar a nuestro derecho, no al del otro. Es esta suma de voluntades la que sigue fortaleciendo a ese monstruo que se llama “estado”. Ese estado que para lograr su propósito utiliza mecanismos engañosos, valiéndose de la histeria colectiva y el dolor de otros; como si cada víctima que aparece en sus anuncios, por ese mero hecho, quedara exenta de ser acusada algún día por ellos mismos.
Votar “Sí” es como entregarle la llave de tu casa al pillo para que entre a robar. La Constitución es una “armadura” que nos protege; no del otro, sino del gobierno.
De ese mismo gobierno que te fabrica el caso, que no investiga, que comete brutalidad policiaca. Ese gobierno que te pide el voto pero no acepta que lo fiscalices. A esos verdaderos asesinos... no.
Wilmari Pérez

En la expresión no ha lugar, ha se escribe con h.

2172

2937

2837

3497

¿Qué opinas del banquete que se regalaron los senadores que incluía langosta?

Es un agravio a las personas que están pasando estrecheces a causa de la crisis.

Los 95 años de existencia del Senado lo ameritaba

Ya no causan sorpresa las extravagancias de los legisladores.

Fue una imprudencia, pero se ha exagerado la gravedad del hecho

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Lawmakers vote to block their pay raises http://ow.ly/cXAP5 #caribbeanbusiness

via CARIBBEAN BUSINESS's Facebook Wall by CARIBBEAN BUSINESS on 8/14/12

Lawmakers vote to block their pay raises http://ow.ly/cXAP5 #caribbeanbusiness

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PR set to welcome home Olympians http://ow.ly/cXVtU #culson #espinal

via CARIBBEAN BUSINESS's Facebook Wall by CARIBBEAN BUSINESS on 8/14/12

PR set to welcome home Olympians http://ow.ly/cXVtU #culson #espinal

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Strange trip: Spain in PR for #soccer http://ow.ly/cZxVw #caribbeanbusiness

via CARIBBEAN BUSINESS's Facebook Wall by CARIBBEAN BUSINESS on 8/15/12

Strange trip: Spain in PR for #soccer http://ow.ly/cZxVw #caribbeanbusiness

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$22M in federal funds for PR airport; PR seeks OK for Baldorioty cameras http://...

via CARIBBEAN BUSINESS's Facebook Wall by CARIBBEAN BUSINESS on 8/15/12

$22M in federal funds for PR airport; PR seeks OK for Baldorioty cameras http://ow.ly/cZy1W #federalfunds #caribbeanbusiness

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Puerto Rican Political Prisoners Released

via Puerto Rico by Fight Back on 7/27/09

Chicago, IL - Ricardo Jimenez was the first newly freed Independista to speak to the 300 strong rally, welcoming home the patriots who were jailed for fighting against the U.S. colonization of Puerto Rico. Jimenez told the cheering crowd "the struggle for independence continues!"

The five and a half hour rally, organized mostly by word of mouth, was impressive, with more and more people showing up throughout the evening to participate in this historic and joyous moment in the Puerto Rican community.

Three other freed Independistas spoke to the rally; Alejandrina Torres, Alberto Rodriguez, and Luis Rosa.

Due to the repressive conditions of release imposed by President Clinton, the Independistas are not allowed to appear together, nor are they allowed to communicate with each other.

Two political prisoners, Antonio Camacho-Negron and Oscar Lopez-Rivera, refused the offer of clemency from President Clinton because of the harsh conditions tied to the release.

The Independistas were never given a fair trial to begin with. Under international law, they, as prisoners of war, should have been tried in a Geneva Court. Even today, the mainstream media never mentions that Puerto Rico, after more than a hundred years, remains a colony of the U.S.

Nine of the eleven freed Independistas lived in Chicago before being captured. Only two, Alejandrina Torres and Alberto Rodriguez plan on remaining in Chicago, the rest will live in Puerto Rico.

Luis Rosa, who was 19 years old when imprisoned, said that he would not be able to lead a normal life if he stayed in Chicago. Mayor Daley has stated his opposition to the Independistas' freedom and threatened to use the FBI to keep surveillance on them.

These activists have suffered tremendously inside and outside prison at the hands of the American government. Yet their faith is firm in one day seeing justice for their people and the end of colonialism - ¡Viva Puerto Rico Libre!

Protests hit repression of Puerto Rican independence activists

via Puerto Rico by Fight Back on 7/29/09

San Juan, Puerto Rico - Demanding a halt to the repression of activists working for the independence of Puerto Rico, about 1000 people rallied at the Federal Courthouse here, Jan. 10. Protests took place in ten other cities including, Chicago, New York City and Los Angeles.
Three young Puerto Ricans, Tania Frontera, Christopher Torres and Julio Pabón, have been subpoenaed to appear before a grand jury in New York. Organizers of the protests say the government wants to obtain information about the Popular Boricua Army - Macheteros, including identifying a series of independence leaders affiliated with organizations that struggle for the decolonization and independence of Puerto Rico.
The grand jury, which was scheduled to convene in mid-January, has now been pushed back to February.
Puerto Rico is a colony of the United States. A large movement is working to end U.S. domination there to achieve independence.

University of Puerto Rico student strike in week five

via Puerto Rico by Fight Back on 5/27/10

San Juan, Puerto Rico - The University of Puerto Rico administration continues to refuse to negotiate with the students here, as the 24-hour strike started April 21 has extended into its dramatic fifth week.
One of the demands the strike is fighting for is continuing financial assistance for athletes, art students and sons and daughters of the university employees. The university administration and the government do not see eye to eye with the students and what has been offered so far many students see as only scraps.
The most important points in the negotiations have not been met - like the financial extensions or the demand to protect the strike against repression. Another important demand is that the university opens its financial books to the public. This is where the administration doesn’t want to go and what keeps the movement on its feet.
Already the riot police have been used against the students on more than one occasion. There is constant watch by the state police, but the students have held their ground bravely, with help from the incredible worker and community support. Different camps have been set up in and around the campus, maintained by the workers, professors, parents of the students, unions and organizations.
This is all created as a direct result of the chief of police recently stating that no one can take food or water to the strikers. The chief of police decided to do this after Governor Luis Fortuna, in his State of the Country speech, said, “To study in the University of Puerto Rico is a privilege not a right.” This is the attitude that the university administration, backed by the government, has tried to take in regards to the students, but the students are still fighting and standing strong and they will not stop until every one of their demands are met.

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Puerto Rican legislature approves Penal Code with broad attacks on civil liberties

via Puerto Rico by Fight Back on 7/10/12

On June 30 the Puerto Rican legislature approved a new Penal Code that includes sharp restrictions on a broad range of civil liberties and rights. Supporters of civil liberties refer to it as essentially a ‘wish list’ of many regressive laws the right wing has dreamed of passing. It now awaits either the approval or veto of Puerto Rican Governor Luis Fortuño, who is from the New Progressive Party (PNP) of Puerto Rico, and is also a member of the U.S.’s Republican Party.
The new changes to the penal code include restrictions on freedom of assembly and expression that would criminalize many forms of protest. The law would criminalize, with a mandatory three-year jail sentence, any protest that might “perturb, interrupt or impede” politicians, or “any disorder” around them. The law would also prohibit protests that “obstruct the providing of services or access” at schools, universities and health institutions. This is clearly targeted at criminalizing anything like the recent university student strikes or actions to defend public services that are threatened by budget cuts and austerity. Violations of this law would mean six months in jail and/or a $5000 fine.
The bill includes severe restrictions and criminalization of abortion (currently legal under Puerto Rican and U.S. law). The new penal code would also create lengthy mandatory minimum sentences for a range of crimes. There is a separate (but politically related) constitutional referendum that will be voted on, which would remove the right to bail for people accused of some crimes.
Many of these measures have been proposed before and failed, and the constitutionality of some of them is questionable. There is a concern expressed by opponents of the bill that this is just the first step and the government would then attempt to restrict other rights such as the right to strike. Strikes in Puerto Rico in recent years have been militant and effective at fighting austerity. More austerity is expected in the coming period.
Puerto Rico’s status as a colony (‘commonwealth’) of the U.S. means that Puerto Rico is subject to the U.S.’s federal laws and courts in addition to Puerto Rico’s own laws. Some of the provisions in this new bill could be found unconstitutional under U.S. and Puerto Rican law, but the legislature seems intent on pushing the limits to try to criminalize a broad range of actions. These changes to the Puerto Rican penal code come in a context of sharpening repression in the United States as well, and many of the parts of this law appear to be models for deepening repressive laws in the U.S.

Puerto Rican Governor Fortuño signs repressive penal code changes; lawsuit filed to stop it

BY Brad Sigal | Puerto Rico | 8/08/12

Tags: ACLU, anti-imperialism, civil liberties, colonialism, Luis Fortuño, Puerto Rico, Repression

Puerto Rican Governor Fortuño signs repressive penal code changes; lawsuit filed to stop it

By Brad Sigal |

August 8, 2012

HRC condemns anti-gay violence in Puerto Rico

POSTED BY Gay Travel Team ON Jun 8th, 2011 | 0 COMMENTS

By San Diego Gay and Lesbian News

WASHINGTON – The Human Rights Campaign today called upon federal and local government officials and law enforcement authorities to strengthen their efforts to implement a long-term strategy to address violence against LGBT individuals in Puerto Rico.

Three LGBT Puerto Ricans have been found dead over the past several days and 18 LGBT Puerto Ricans have been murdered over the last year and a half, according to reports.

On Tuesday, it was reported that Ramón “Moncho” Salgado was found dead along the side of a highway; Karlota Gómez Sánchez, a transgender woman, was found shot to death at an intersection on Monday; and Alejandro Torres Torres was found stabbed to death over the weekend.

“The alarming rate of violence against LGBT Puerto Rican's cannot be tolerated,” HRC President Joe Solmonese said. “Puerto Rican government officials and law enforcement, as well as the U.S. Department of Justice, must ensure that LGBT people have the protection they need to survive. When a community has to live in constant fear of violence and even death for who they are, everyone suffers.”

Puerto Rico has a hate crime law that covers sexual orientation and gender identity. In addition, federal law prohibits hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice entered an agreement with the Puerto Rico Civil Rights Commission, the Puerto Rico Police Department and the Colegio Universitario de Justicia Criminal in 2010 to create a cooperative effort to develop and implement hate crime training initiatives and civil rights curriculum for the Puerto Rico Police Academy and Puerto Rico Police Department.

Despite such legal protection and ongoing efforts to address hate violence, the murders of LGBT individuals have continued.

http://blog.gaytravel.com/blog/entry/hrc-condemns-anti-gay-violence-in-puerto-rico

Cocaine ‘treasure island’ found off Puerto Rico

Published: August 15, 2012

FAJARDO, Puerto Rico — Federal and state law enforcement agencies in Puerto Rico recently uncovered a “hidden treasure” consisting of approximately 18 pounds of bricked cocaine buried in an area protected by Fish and Wild Life Reserve at the Municipal Island of Culebra, Puerto Rico.
The hidden contraband allegedly was buried there several years before, after it washed up on the small island of Culebra. It is alleged that an unknown individual found and hid the contraband as far back as seven years ago. Supposedly he told a friend, Rodney Hyden, 54, of the buried “treasure” and Hyden was seeking help to transport it from Puerto Rico to Florida. As part of an undercover operation that began in early June in Jacksonville, Florida, federal and state agencies worked together to find and seize the drugs.
On Thursday, federal agents and authorities from Puerto Rico, using maps provided by Hyden, found the spot and unearthed a bag containing approximately 18 pounds of bricked cocaine. CBP officers seized the drug and turned it over to Homeland Security Investigation agents for continuation of the investigation.
Hyden was arrested on Friday in St Augustine, Florida, after he attempted to receive the contraband from undercover agents.

Monday, August 27, 2012

Answer: Oh, most definitely, the USA!!!

Memorias de un Gay Sesenton: the City College and &#39;la isla de la ... - Monday, August 27, 2012 - gerardo torres

lunes, 27 de agosto de 2012

the City College and ‘la isla de la simpatía”

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Everything is Connected

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¿Apruebas la visita de la selección española de fútbol para jugar en Puerto Rico?

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¿Qué te pareció el recibimiento que se le dio a la delegación olímpica?

¿Qué opinas del banquete que se regalaron los senadores que incluía langosta?

Puerto Rican Governor Fortuño signs repressive penal code changes; lawsuit filed to stop it

HRC condemns anti-gay violence in Puerto Rico

Published: August 15, 2012

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Memorias de un Gay Sesenton: the City College and 'la isla de la ... - Monday, August 27, 2012 - gerardo torres