Things to do in the Bx

First Wednesdays
Bronx Culture Trolley
Hop on the trolley and enjoy attractions at some of the hottest cultural spots along the lower Grand Concourse. Trolley riders meet at Hostos Community College on the first Wednesday of each month. The next trolley is Wednesday, February 4. Admission is free.

The trolley bell clangs at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m., indicating the trolley''s departure from Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos to make its way to the evening''s cultural events. If you are riding on the trolley, Bronx Latino recommends the first two. The last one usually does not include all the stops and is more about picking up people at destinations.

Take a ride along the Lower Grand Concourse of The South Bronx Cultural Corridor.

February's lineup includes:

Graffiti: Spirit of an Age @ 40 x 10 @ the Longwood Arts Gallery
Curated by Ezo Wippler, this exhibition highlights works by 10 artists who began their careers in their teens making Graffiti and as time has progressed, have expanded their visual vernacular to include other forms of expression such as drawing, graphic design, painting and sculpture. The result is a startling show that combines elements of Graffiti, line color and the influence of urban trends and culture. Participating artists include CES, CEY, DR. REVOLT, EZO, KET, KLASS, MARE 139, REVS, SHARP and SP. This exhibition is on view through February 7th.

The trolley will focus on the Alexander Avenue Art & Antiques District, and riders will get to visit Alexander’s Café for a wine-tasting event with live jazz, Books, Notes & News, Custom Design Studio, and Thrift World Antiques.

Riders will also get to visit studios in the area, including the LDR Studio Gallery and a group art exhibition entitled "The Anti So Bro Show."

Other places riders will visit include the Haven Arts Gallery and the Bruckner Gallery at the Bruckner Bar & Grill. There will be a Karaoke Night at the Bruckner Gallery as well.

Meanwhile, the Bronx Blue Bedroom Project will feature "The Flight," an installation by Fannie Allie. "The Flight" is a video of a window is projected on the actual windows of the bedroom. This video revolves around a character’s interaction with his window.

The night will close at Sweetwaters Bar & Grill on Third Avenue at 139th Street with Latin jazz.

For more information, www.bronxarts.org.

Is Senator Kirsten Gillibrand Good for Latinos?

Commentary


The recent appointment of former Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand as the junior US Senator for New York has definitely raised questions whether she's good for Latinos.

I must admit that I was surprised of her selection given the other more experienced elected officials (NYS Attorney General Andrew Cuomo for example) but now we must work with her and hope that she delivers for ALL New Yorkers.

However, her stands on immigration and gun control definitely has me, and many Latinos, very concerned. I became more concerned at the fact that while she took time to visit the National Action Network in Harlem (an obvious attempt to introduce herself to the African-American community), she has yet to paid an actual visit to the Bronx and meet with the Bronx Democratic Party, which includes exceptional Latino leaders such as our Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr., Assembly members Jose Rivera (no relation), Peter Rivera (no relation), Naomi Rivera (no relation) Ruben Diaz, Jr., Carmen Arroyo, Nelson Castro, NYS Senators Pedro Espada, Jr., Ruben Diaz, Jose Marco Serrano, Council members Joel Rivera, Maria del Carmen Arroyo, Annabel Palma and Maria Baez. That's 13 Latino elected officials. Again, we would like to see this "know me" session open to Bronxites with a question and answer period.

While I do applaud her for saying that she will have to change her views/stands on certain issues, I just hope that she does what is right not only for Latinos, but for ALL New Yorkers.

I would urge Senator Gillibrand to 1) hold a listening session in the Bronx and to 2) sit down with Mayor Bloomberg and speak about how she can be an advocate to keep guns out of the hands of criminals. And while it is not a policy matter, I urge the Senator to do more than attend our parades to wave our flags and then go back to the Senate and do nothing for the folks she met, spoke, hugged, and smiled at the parades. That was the past and I am hopeful she wants to be the present and definitely the future.

Senator Gillibrand's "problem" with Latinos has been caused by her and only her. She's the one that needs to come to us and let us hear her in person. No need to hire others to do what is one of her duties as our US Senator. There's no need to avoid Latinos, which is the case now. Senator Gillibrand, you can talk to us. We're ready to work together for the future of our State and our Country! -- Haile Rivera

Haile Rivera is a resident of the Bronx (University Heights), former Obama Field Organizer and Founder of Hands On New York, Inc.

Photo courtesy of Haile Rivera

Community calendar

Hands On New York, Inc. Announces Its Annual Community Coat Distribution

Hands On New York, Inc., a community organization dedicated to serving low-income individuals and families in the Bronx, is holding its 3rd annual coat distribution to adults and children.

10 a.m., Saturday, January 31
Iglesia Presbiteriana El Buen Pastor
1954 Grand Concourse (E. 178th Street)

NOTE: You may also bring your gently-used coats to this location.

Hands On will only be able to serve the first 400 individuals. Coats will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more info., send a message to handsonny@gmail.com or contact Cossette Morillo, coordinator at (718) 312-9063.

source: Hands On New York

Community calendar

The Rebirth of the South Bronx
6:30 p.m., Tuesday, February 17
Museum of the City of New York
1220 Fifth Avenue at 104th Street, Manhattan


Join Majora Carter for a presentation on the revival of the South Bronx in the aftermath of the devastation of the 1970s and 1980s. Founder of Sustainable South Bronx and president of the Majora Carter Group, Majora Carter has won numerous awards—including the MacArthur Foundation “genius” award—for her work to restore the South Bronx community to health and environmentally sustainable productivity. Presented in conjunction with the exhibition Broken Glass: Photographs of the South Bronx by Ray Mortenson and Growing and Greening New York: PlaNYC and the Future of the City.

Reservations required. $5 museum members, seniors, and students; $9 general admission.

For tickets, call (212) 534-1672, ext. 3395, or order on-line at www.mcny.org/public-programs/.

Moviegoers to get spooked at 'The HORRORphiles'

Edwin Pagan is the man behind the Latin horror revolution

If you are into horror flicks, "The HORRORphiles," featuring the work of emerging Latino directors working within the genre is playing a series of horror movies tonight in New York City.
Latin Horror, in association with Anthology Film Archives, presents a special edition of the NewLatino Filmmakers Screening Series - "The HORRORphiles." NewLatino Filmmakers is billed as the best and only independent Latino “cinematheque” showcase in New York City -- now in its 7th year. "The HORRORphiles" will run from 7-9:30 p.m. tonight at Anthology Film Archives, 32 Second Avenue at Second Street in the Lower East Side. The price is $6 at the box office.


Tonight's "Horrorphiles" will feature "Monster Job Hunter" by writer/director Yehudi Mercado, "Sandman's Box," by writer/director Gilberto Flores, and "Repentance" by writer/director Julio Antonio Toro, all shorts.
HORRORphiles will also showcase "Tales from the Dead," a digital feature by writer/director Jason Cuadrado, which is described as a "terrifying Japanese-language anthology of four ghost stories as told by Tamika, a strange young girl with the ability to communicate with the dead."
There will also be a trailer spotlight of new works in development by Latino filmmakers: "Dark Tales of Tortured Souls" by Pepper Negron and "subHysteria" by Leonard Zelig.
Tonight's horror lineup will include a Q&A with filmmakers in attendance. To read more about the films playing, go to www.latinhorror.com, the official publication of anyone interested in the genre. Latin Horror is one of the first English publications dedicated to the emerging genre of Latin horror.

Puerto Rico Sun speaks to series director/curator Edwin Pagan about his own love of horror movies, the Latin horror movement and about tonight's "HORRORphiles."

The Interview: Edwin Pagan



1. Please tell me a little about you.
I was born on the Lower East Side of Puerto Rican parents, and raised in the South Bronx. I'm 45-years old. I became involved in the arts via the Boys & Girls Club of America where I was first introduced to photography and film. I currently live in the Lower East. I'm a cinematographer and producer; principal in the film production company Pagan Images, Inc.; founder-in-chief, Latin Horror; and a horror fan.

2. What about the horror genre you love to so much? What fascinates or moves you about this genre?

I love horror's ability to make people feel unsafe, like when you were a child and afraid of the darkness. It offers the opportunity to always be able to re-discover new ways to be afraid of what's just inside the darkness. Fear is a primal emotion and one most people spend a great deal of effort trying to avoid. It's a quick shot of adrenaline and I embrace it.

3. What was the first horror movie you watched? And, what is your favorite horror flick now and why?

The first horror film that completed captivated me -- terrorized me -- was the "The Exorcist," in 1973. I was 10. I saw it in the Bronx at the then Whitestone drive-in before it was torn down and became a mall-style multiplex. The movie scared the hell out of me. I had nightmares for weeks afterwards. I still can't watch "The Exorcist" without feeling my hairs stand on end. It has stood the test of time, and it's still one of my favorites movies, ever!
But that film also stayed with me in another way: I began to read everything I could get my hands on related to horror: comics, graphic novels, paperback. I remember I had all these gargoyle posters in my bedroom and my friends would only call me out to play through the window - once they had visited my room, they would never come back a second time. [laughs] I also went to see a great deal of horror films as a teenager: "Phantasm," "Friday the 13th," "Jacob's Ladder," "Seven," are some of the others that have stayed with me, right up to the present.

4. I remember a teacher once telling us in a production class that horror is actually the most morally-based genre because it is about good and evil. For instance, teens doing bad things get killed...Could you elaborate on this?
Yeah, that's a great point, and one that is very true. "Promiscuous" teenagers get chopped to pieces in log cabins by a masked stranger; spirits haunt new home owners to enlist their help in exacting justice on the previous murderous tenants; hell is so full of sinners that the dead must rise and walk among the living, aliens in flying saucers invade earth during the cold war, etc. Horror films, or its related literature, have always been a great way to ascertain the relevant fears of society at any given time in history. I'm not quite sure what the current trend of shake-and-bake horror cinema in the U.S. says about us as a modern society, but I'm certain it would make a great psychology thesis. Don't get me wrong, I love horror in all its forms and see and enjoy them all (well, almost). I'm just Jonesing for something to come along and also engage my mind, give me an engaging story line and not just gag over plot.
I think it's only a matter of time before we return to an intelligent horror film formula with actual suspense as a basis for the fear, not just gross gore. It's why American audiences made "Pan's Labyrinth" such a successful hit, even when it was in another language [Spanish] during a time of extreme xenophobia. Latin horror innately brings that and Hollywood is watching. The discovering and re-making of a slew of Japanese horror films is starting to turn an eye at what Latin traditions an storytellers are brewing. Already Universal Pictures has slated Juan Felipe Oro's "Al Final del Espectro" for production, set to star megastar Nicole Kidman. And we have ample local grown talent also creating new Latin horror stories, which is promising. Our March 2009 edition of Latin Horror profiles some of this new crop.

5. Could you tell me a little about your own projects in this genre and what are your influences? Does being Latino have any influence on your work in this genre?
I have worked primarily as a cinematographer, producer, and more recently as an emerging writer/director.
Over the years I have been fortunate to work as a cinematographer with very exciting, talented directors: Derek Velez Partridge, Pepper Negron, and Julio Antonio Toro, just to mention a few. The latter two work primarily in horror and this has allowed me to fine-tune my cinematic eye within the genre of horror in terms of lighting, composition and use of color, and I think together we have made some interesting work. I am currently in production on a short film I wrote called "Anima Sola," a Latin horror project, a ghost story of sorts. It's an English film but very grounded in Latin cultural traditions and beliefs. Google the name and you'll recognize the iconic image that comes up on which my story is based. My decision to write and direct Anima was grounded in wanting to put my own thumbprint on film in a larger way and get closer in context and subject matter to material grounded in Latin horror. As you might have guessed, Del Toro has been an inspiration. He's a master storyteller with a solid grasp of visual imagery and that is the kind of sensibility I hope to bring in my own work.
Being Latino, definitely has had a marked impact on how I see the world around me and thus my personal work in film. Being born in New York City to immigrant parents who brought their own stories that were extremely exotic from what I was exposed to via American culture, is also an influence. Stories of creatures and Boogiemen that would come out the forest for "bad" children like "El Cuco." Or watching my mother cleanse the house each spring or with incense on Día De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead, All Souls Day, All Saints Day - November 2nd) and watching her have heated conversations with dead relatives whom I'd never met, or had, which was even spookier. It was never questioned. No more than one questioned the air we breathed or water that came out of the tap. It just was and so that became instilled in me and comes across in my current work.

6. Why Latin horror? How is it different or unique from let' say mainstream horror movies? Is there a difference between the English and the Spanish horror movies? How about between movies based in the United States from those that are based out of Spanish-speaking countries such as Mexico or Spain?
Horror as a device in Latin culture, as a story convention has always been deep rooted. It's books, oral histories and art are full of these examples of ghosts and other-world creatures lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce at a moment's notice. It was inevitable that the expression of fear would carry over to film. This transference is only as prolific directly in proportion to the regional film industry. While Latin horror is not a widely-known commodity in the U.S., it is a genre that has begun to grow in popularity and become more recognized, especially since the release of Guillermo Del Toro's "Pan's Labyrinth," and Juan Antonio Bayona's "The Orphanage," both of which were productions out of Mexico and Spain.
The base difference between American horror and Latin horror is quite profound. In U.S.-based horror, the primary convention is to seek out and destroy the physical human being. So much so that the term "slasher film" has become a common moniker of the genre. You could literally sit in the theater with a hand tally counter and click off the body count. It didn't start out that way but that's where it currently stands as a genre. Latin horror, on the other hand, is more concerned with destroying and torturing the soul and mind, and the characters and story are paramount. You might end up with a bloody body or two but how they get that way is at different ends of the horror spectrum. In that respect, aside from the language, Latin horror is a close sister to Japanese horror (J-horror) in that we both culturally believe in the spiritual world, and that the dead walk among us or are within reach and contact. Again, "Día De Los Muertos" is in our culture.
The primary reason for starting the Latin Horror publication was to consolidate the genre as a validated and recognized entity and to provide a focal point for its fans worldwide. The website is just one way to do this. We have to also be more proactive by spreading the word at the usual horror watering holes like film festivals, comic conventions, and collaborating with established publications that focus on horror and starting a dialogue with them that begins to spread beyond the printed page. The material being created by Latin horrorphiles in all forms is out there. We just have to put the spotlight on it - that's our mission.



7. I know you have a website dedicated to Latino horror at www.latinhorror.com. What are your short- and long-term goals with your upcoming "The HORRORphiles"? What can people expect? Is this for hardcore horror fans or for anyone?

Yes, the Latin Horror website was a way for me to consolidate my three favorite passions into one dream: my love of horror, my passion for film and art, and my appreciation of all things Latin.
In short order, task one is letting Latin horror fans know we exist. We are constantly expanding our knowledge database of prospective people to profile going forward and our fans are already submitting the favorites they'd like to see featured on the website. In the long term, we plan to incrementally roll out more features - a blog is in the works called Blog Of Pheare; and even an online store where Latin horror fans can purchase their favorites movies, books, songs, posters, comics, etc. Latin Horror is a grassroots effort so it's slow-going but growing process, and that's a good thing because we can grow something together with our fan base that we can both be proud. We also plan to carry a line of Latin Horror swag that includes T-shirts and other related items. We've already printed a small run, which we have distributed among our collaborators. The shirts were custom printed by longtime friend Luis Cordero.

8. "The HORRORphiles" is a way of showcasing emerging Latino directors working within the genre of horror. Generally speaking, is there a trend for Latino directors to do these kind of movies or is there a need for more Latino directors to get in this genre? Why do you see it is important to have Latino directors working in this genre?



"The HORRORphiles" is about film. But it is also about all the other "dark creative expressionists" we plan to cover over the coming years: writers, illustrators, painters, poets, and bands.
Latin filmmakers as a whole are not innately drawn to making horror films. Since we are culturally enticed by the genre, it's becoming a point-of-departure for many Latino filmmakers to cut their teeth in movie making. These kinds of films can be made on very low budgets and still keep within the conventions of the genre. Fake blood is easy to make, screams are free, and anyone can convince their uncle to allow them to shoot in the garage. Films actually being made by Latino filmmakers is steadily growing, both in the indie and commercial worlds. But there is a distinction to be made about Latinos mimicking slasher-inspired films and those working to develop Latin horror, which is more about a story and less about gags and thus a more disciplined craft.
It's funny but the master of the zombie genre, the one who put it on the map in the 1960s, George Romero, is actually a Cuban-American. So aside to creating our own distinct genre - Latin horror, our contributions are also ingrained in the DNA of U.S.-based horror, whether people know it or not. Given the opportunity to interview Romero (Yes, he's at the top of our knowledge database), one base question I would have to pose would be if the Latin tradition of "Día De Los Muertos" played a role in his creation of his first zombie films. Hmmm?

9. What are some of the biggest challenges for a Latino director to get into this genre? Is it the same as any other genre or different?
Film as an industry is about the bottom line: MONEY. As more Latin-themed horror-based films hit the market and make favorable inroads at the bottom line of the box office - PROFITS - the more we'll see Latino filmmakers, and other artists get more work, green-lit, published, signed and endorsed. But that's a tough nut to crack because we're in the very early stages of the growth of the Latin horror in the U.S. market place. I think we as Latinos have to validate the genre. Horror as a whole is a sub-niche market and Latin horror-themed projects even a smaller fraction of the overall economy of horror as a business. But the same was the case when Rock en Espanol started popping up on the music landscape. Today no one questions it as a category of music and it has its own distinct fan base in all parts of the world. It's a matter of creating the groundwork for a movement and bringing together people that are like-minded to create the critical mass to make it viable. And horror fans are loyal and not just to English, Italian, or Japanese horror. Horror fans move across cultural and language borders to whatever they feel is legit. That's why the Norwegian vampire film, "Let the Right One In" was such a tremendous hit. It was fresh, a new take on the theme and true to the genre and horror fans from across the spectrum responded in-kind. Me too. I couldn't tell my friends enough about it. Latin-based horror is so true to the genre and has the potential to become a worldwide phenomenon given the right stories.

10. Please tell me anything else that you'd like to share with our readers.
Halloween is my favorite day of the year.

Latin Horror was officially launched on Halloween 2008.

Latin Horror will be taking its show on the road in 2009. We'll be hosting panels at film festivals to discuss and promote the genre of Latin horror, as well as participating in comic book and horror conventions to promote and meet, attract new fans to the revolution. We are already registered to attend the New York Comicon at Jacob Javits (February 6th-8th), and Comicon International in San Diego (July 23rd-26th). Look for us there.

For more information on "The HORRORphiles" or Latin Horror, visit www.latinhorror.com.
-- Clarisel Gonzalez

(Photos courtesy of Edwin Pagan)

'Poetry con Salsa' comes to the Bronx

Daniel José Custódio who lives in Virginia is considered one of the most dynamic and revolutionary spoken word artists in the world. He is a three-time PSi National Poetry Championship competitor and is currently the top ranked slam poet in the world in the slam master category. He is also a member and the founder of Slam Nahuatl.
And, Custodio is the host of a new show coming to the Bronx named "The Poetry con Series," which will be held on the first Friday of every month at Salsa Caterers on Third Avenue. The series kicks off February 6, featuring poets Aja-Bonet, B Yung & Miles Hodges and Angel Aviles.
"Poetry con Salsa" is being billed as one of the hottest new poetry shows in the city. Custodio says "the show is meant to bring spoken word to the Bronx because today so many shows are in Manhattan and we want to bring consciousness to the communities where a lot of our people reside."
Custodio recently spoke with Bronx Latino about his own poetry and why he is pushing to bring "Poetry con Salsa" to the Bronx.

The Q & A with Daniel José Custodio:



Q: Please tell me a little about you. Where you are originally from, where do you currently live?
A: I wear many hats: poet, teacher and business man. However, my soul is 100% poet. I am originally from Sleepy Hollow, NY (son of a Brazilian mother and a Portuguese father). I currently reside in Richmond, VA, but I am making plans to move back to New York City within the next year to run a charter school in Brooklyn.

Q: Why did you become a spoken word artist? What about this art appealed to you? What inspires you?
A: I became a spoken word artist because writing poems was cheaper than seeing a therapist. The act of performing my poems and connecting to other people that were going through similar experiences as me saved my life and gave me strength during a time in my life when I didn't want to continue. The art form itself is one of the most powerful forms of expression in society and has been since the days of Griots in Africa. Listening to other people's stories about how they have overcome obstacles in their lives inspire me to continue sharing. You never know when one of your poems will save somebody else's life, convincing them that they are not alone.

Q: You are currently the top ranked slam poet in the world in the slam master
category. What are the skills you need to be a slam master and what advice would you give an aspiring slam poet?
A: The slam master is in charge of running the entire venue in his/her city and this is no easy task. A slam master needs to be respected as a poet, but also needs to be able to organize and network in their community. With respect to aspiring poets, I would say there are 4 things to keep in mind: 1) be you and write about what you know, 2) be original and tell your stories in a way that such a story has never been told, 3) leave your heart on stage every time you perform, and 4) become a great writer by reading the works of other great writers and then taking elements that you learn from them and practicing the use of such elements to create a unique style that will define you. All of these elements are equally important; remove one and the table is unstable and wabbly.

Q: I read in your bio that you are a member of the Virginia Commission for the Arts' Artist Roster List and that you have taught poetry workshops to hundreds of disenfranchised, inner-city youth. Why is teaching poetry to this community of young people important to you?
A: If we do not teach that which liberates us, then we are robbing others of experiencing what we experience. This is the greatest sin in my opinion. Change is a key word these days, especially with the recent election. However, change will not happen just because we have a new president if every day people like you and I don't make change in our local communities. I remember the first time I saw one of my students recite a poem; remember his eyes widen as he realized how powerful he really was. This is what drives me.

Q: You graduated from Hamilton College where you studied creative writing and from graduate Northwestern University with a master’s degree in educational entrepreneurship. What would you tell young Latino people about pursuing higher education? How has your education helped you?
A: I would encourage all young Latinos out there to take time to think about what they love to do first and do this early on in life. A degree can be the biggest waste of time if you don't pursue what you love, but it can be the most powerful thing in the world if it provides you with opportunities to pursue your passion. Also, I would encourage the youth to not worry about money. Don't study math or science or go into medicine just because you want to make a lot of money. Pursue them because you love them. Pursuing a career just because you want money will never lead to true happiness.

Q: You are hosting a new series in the Bronx named "Poetry con Salsa." Please tell me about this show and what it is about. Why is it named "Poetry con Salsa"?
A: "Poetry con Salsa" is the first poetry show of its' kind in New York City. It is being held at one of the best catering companies in the city, Salsa Caterers in the heart of the Bronx. The night will start with fine, Latino cuisine and will transition into a Broadway-like show featuring world-reknown poets who have appeared on such shows such as HBO Def Poetry. After the show, there will be an after-party with Latino music (i.e. Salsa, Merengue, Bachata). The show is called "Poetry con Salsa" because it's being held at Salsa Caterers, but also has various other underlying meanings. We are looking to mix various elements into our show including salsa music; our poets will "spit fire" or share powerful stories as if their tongues are on fire after having eaten salsa peppers.



Q: You obviously don't currently live in the Bronx. Why are you involved in the "Poetry con Salsa" series in the Bronx? What are your expectations with having this show in the Bronx?
A: Although I don't live in the Bronx, I grew up in the New York tri-state area and understand how important the Bronx is culturally. As a youth, I grew up listening to Hip-Hop artists such as Chuck D, Rakim, Kool G Rap and Boogie Down Productions. This is actually what first got me into writing. Hip-Hop started in the Bronx and so much creativity comes from that borough. Unfortunately, most of the poetry venues currently reside in lower Manhattan's upscale areas. There is a void right now in the Bronx and myself and Daniel Garcia, the owner of Salsa Caterers in the Bronx, want to fill.

Q: Are you involved in other projects and what are they?
A: I am currently involved in several projects, but I will highlight two major ones. The first is the End Hunger Poetry Slam in Richmond, VA. This poetry series has raised enough money to feed an impoverished family for an entire year. We would love to do something similar with "Poetry con Salsa" if the series gains momentum. Perhaps something like HIV awareness would be worthwhile. Another project I am part of is the Cluster Bomb Project. This project is gathering various artists throughout Richmond, VA to create art which will create an awareness of what a cluster bomb is and how it is being used to terrorize innocent people in other countries. For information on the End Hunger Poetry Slam, you can visit www.myspace.com/slamnahuatl.

Q: When you are not reciting poetry, what do you do on your spare time?
A: When I am not writing or reciting poetry, I am usually doing a million other things: talking to my girl Carina Lopez, a med student at Albert Einstein, via Skype because she is in the Bronx and I am in Virginia :-(, correcting students' poems, exercising, reading books, spending too much time on Facebook :-), cooking...doing pretty normal things most other people do. I feel that a great poet doesn't spend all of his/her time in front of a computer or with a pen and pad. You have to remember to live life, so you can find inspiration and then write about that. There is poetry and inspiration everywhere.

Q: Please tell me anything else I didn't ask that you'd like to share with our readers. Have any message?
A: I just want the readers to know that if you want to be inspired and to see something that will change your life, no matter how far fetched that may sound, come out on February 6th to check out the poets at Poetry con Salsa! If you don't enjoy yourself, I'll buy you a drink! :-)

For more information, check out Custudio's website at www.thepoetdaniel.com and can click on the flyer for Poetry con Salsa to buy tickets. -- Clarisel Gonzalez


(photos courtesy of Daniel J. Custodio)

Things to do in the BX

TODAY

VICTOR & BOBBY

invite you to a

MASQUERADE DANCE
Sunday, January 25 @ The Gallery

FEATURING
TIPICA IDEAL

DJ Brian

DOORS OPEN AT 5PM
Adv. Tickets $15
Complimentary Buffet

For Ticket Info, call:
(646) 515-2148
(646) 544-1891

Valet Parking

For more information on The Gallery, go to
http://thegallerybx.com/

Things to do in the Bx

The SugaRush Comedy Show at the Bruckner Bar & Grill



Click on image to see larger text.

RIP: Puerto Rico’s people champion Jose “Chegui” Torres

Jose “Chegui” Torres was known as a man who wore many hats because he did. Torres, a former light-heavyweight champion who became a boxing official and a writer of books about Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, died January 19 in his native Ponce. He was 72.
Torres was laid to rest in Ponce. His wife of 48 years Ramonita Ortiz said he suffered a heart attack. Torres was honored as the hero he was on the island. The mayor of Ponce declared three days of mourning and ordered flags flown at half staff.
Many in New York City where Torres lived for many years also mourned him.
David Bernier, president of the United States Territory Olympic, spoke about Torres during a radio show, saying, “Puerto Rico has lost a great Puerto Rican, a very valiant person who aside from being a good boxer was a fine human being.”
New York City Comptroller Bill Thompson said: “He cared passionately about this city and all New Yorkers. He gained notoriety in the boxing ring. Eventually, he will be remembered for his strength of character and wealth of generosity.
“He was a role model not just for the Puerto Rican community, but for all New Yorkers who saw that one person could make a difference,” Thompson said. “He wanted our streets/neighborhoods to be safe and clean, and refused to sit on the sidelines because he believed in the power of the people.”
A place that Torres frequently visited in NYC was El Maestro boxing gym in the Bronx. Fernando "Ponce" Laspina, one of the top trainers at the gym, remembered that Torres also made it a point to visit the gym every time he was in town. He wouldn’t work out with the fighters or trainers, but he always talked to the kids, Ponce said.
“He never turned his back on anyone,” Ponce said. “He was always talking to kids telling them to stay in school, not to hurt each other, shaking hands with everyone in the gym. A true sportsman, gentleman.”
Torres was awarded in 1956 the silver medal at the Olympics games at Melbourne, Australia. He turned pro in 1958. In 1965, he became the first Puerto Rican to win the light heavyweight title. He also served as as chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission.
As a writer, Torres contributed to English and Spanish newspapers. He co-authored the book “Sting Like a Bee,” a biography on Muhammad Ali and wrote the book “Fire and Fear,” a book about former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson.
In the early 1990s, he served as president of the World Boxing Organization until 1995. He was a member of The International Boxing Hall of Fame. He also served as chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission. – Ismael Nunez

Note: The website Virtual Boricua has a tribute to Jose "Chegui" Torres. To visit, go to
http://www.virtualboricua.org/Docs/cheguitorres.htm

Eddie Palmieri to perform at Jazz at Lincoln Center

Bronx Latino readers get 25% off of tickets with special code

Jazz at Lincoln Center is presenting nine-time GRAMMY® winner Eddie Palmieri who will perform in February at the Rose Theater, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center. Bronx Latino readers, if you take advantage of this special offer, you get 25% off tickets.

Eddie Palmieri has reigned as a true mambo king for the past 50 years, absorbing the sounds of Puerto Rico and New York into his particular fusion of salsa and jazz. He revisits the music and sound of his influential 1960s La Perfecta orchestra with this latest edition of his ensemble, featuring energized new versions of La Perfecta-era salsa and fiery new Latin jazz compositions.

Eddie Palmieri & La Perfecta II
8 p.m., Friday-Saturday, February 6-7
Rose Theater
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Broadway at 60th St., Manhattan

Remember Get 25% off tickets!
Use code “Jazz 25” and save now!
Tickets Start at $30!

212-721-6500
CenterCharge

Jazz at Lincoln Center Box Office
Broadway at 60th Street (ground level)
Mon-Sat, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday, noon -6 p.m.

Here is a link to the Jazz at Lincoln Center website for more information on the performance, for a link to listen to a sampling of Eddie Palmieri's music online and to purchase tickets:

www.jazzatlincolncenter.org/concerts/details.asp?EventID=1591

Aprovecha and enjoy.

OJO

Today's featured story

Unemployment Fund Out of Money

The state's unemployment insurance system ran out of money at the beginning of the year and is borrowing money from the federal government to pay out claims, according to the New York Times. The unemployment fund already has a deficit of $212 million and expects that to grow to more than $2.5 billion by the end of the year. Borrowing at a rate of about $90 million a week, the state could wind up incurring over $100 million in interest.
To read more, go to
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/22/nyregion/22benefits.html

IMG_9854

IMG_9854
Originally uploaded by clarisel

Things to do in the Bx

Outdoor Sculpture and Indoor Tropical Plants
Brighten Winter at The New York Botanical Garden

Moore in America, Extended Through March 15, and A World of Plants

Offer Garden Visitors a Welcome Winter Retreat
Visitors can brighten their winter days by experiencing contrasting indoor/outdoor exhibitions at The New York Botanical Garden. They can view monumental sculpture in beautiful winter landscapes across the Botanical Garden through March 15, enjoy an “ecotour” of tropical and desert flora in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory’s permanent exhibition A World of Plants, and use the winter season to learn more about gardening and nature through the Garden’s many educational activities and programs.
Moore in America, Named One of Time’s Top 10 Museum Exhibitions of 2008,
Extended Through the Winter Season
For more information, www.nybg.org


(photo of children admiring one of Moore's sculptures last summer at the Botanical Garden; photo by Clarisel Gonzalez)

Not for Profit Workshop

Opportunity

Not for Profit Incorporation Workshop
Thursday, February 5
Bronx Council on the Arts
@ the Longwood Art Gallery,
Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street 1st Floor
6 p.m. networking and refreshments; 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. workshop
Free admission but please RSVP to Eric Rivera at erivera.nys@gmail.com or 212-828-5829

Prez Barack Obama: 'We have chosen hope'

Here's an excerpt from President Barack Obama's inauguration speech:

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned.

Share your thoughts

With the inauguration of the nation's 44th president and the first African American Barack Obama today, Bronx Latino is interested in hearing from readers on their thoughts.

Are you part of the Obama lovefest? Are you questioning costs related to the inauguration despite the nation's poor economy and the growing number of jobless people? What's on your mind? Bronx Latino wants to know.

Leave your comments.

Send me your e-mails to bronxlatinoblog@yahoo.com.

Obama on the silver screen

Obama on the silver screen
Originally uploaded by gessleindaniel

Today's featured shot from the Bronx Latino photo group is by gessleindaniel who reports that Parkchester's American Theater will televise the Inauguration of Barack Obama (for FREE) in HD on their movie screens. For full story go to:
www.bxnews.net

Things to do in the Bx

"THEDEADLY4MULA"
Curator MERESONE

A group exhibition of 22 aerosol artists
Haven Arts Gallery
50 Bruckner Blvd, (Bldg. A)

Exhibit runs thru January 30

Francisco Reyes II of MAMBOSO.NET shares photos he took of the exhibit's opening reception in early January.

To view reception photos, go to:
http://www.mamboso.net/events/d4mula/


For information on exhibit:
Tel: 718 585 5753 • Email: info@havenarts.org
Website: http://havenarts.org
Gallery Hours: Daily, 12-6 p.m.

Haile Rivera is a Hands On Kind of Guy

As the country counts down to next week's inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president, Bronxite Haile Rivera talks with Bronx Latino, reflecting on his own journey to help make history and get Obama elected. Looking forward, Rivera also shares priorities he would like to see Obama take on once he's in office.

Q: Could you please tell me a little about you?
A: I was raised by a single mother who taught me to help others whenever I can. As a result, I am very committed and passionate about helping my community in any way I possibly can. It is not always an easy thing to do because many think I have all the answers to all the problems and we know that's not possible. But I love helping people and I am grateful to my mother for that lesson. For more about me, you can go to http://hailerivera.com/Who_Am_I_Quien_Soy.html.

Q: What did you do for the Obama campaign?
A: I started volunteering and then was offered the opportunity to join the Obama campaign as a field organizer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I continued as a field organizer in North Carolina, Puerto Rico (where I helped organized the famous "caminata" in Old San Juan) and finished in Florida for the general election.

Q: Why did you decide to work in Barack Obama's campaign?
A: I decided to work for Barack Obama's campaign because I believed he was what the country desperately needed. I supported Barack Obama when he was running for US Senate by sending him a small contribution. I then received a personalized thank-you letter and that left an impression on me that made it easier for me to leave everything behind and go on the road with the campaign.

Q: What about Obama motivated you?
A: Originally (when he was running for US Senate) I saw him on C-SPAN and noticed the way he interacted with the voters. It was genuine, real. He understands the challenges our people face day after day and can motivate young Americans to pursue their dreams like no other individual. Then on July 11, 2007, I was invited to an intimate dinner with him. After meeting him, I was more convinced that Barack Obama was our hope and the change America was calling for.



Q: What was the most challenging part about working on his campaign?
A: Convincing voters that Barack Obama was prepared to lead our country in the right direction and educating voters about racism in America and how we must do away with the thought that he was never going to win because of the color of his skin.

Q: What was the best moment for you?
A: Aside from meeting him which took place months before I officially joined the campaign, the best moment was November 4th. I knew that we were going to win the primaries, but November 4th was historic and very emotional for me. I called my partner who was also on the campaign staff in Florida and thanked her for her sacrifice and support. I also called my mother in Philadelphia who was also emotional and finally I called a senior advisor to Barack Obama and thanked him for helping to make "this possible" and saying, "We did it, We did it."

Q: Where were you when Obama was pronounced the winner and what does his win mean to you at a personal and professional level?
A: I was in the campaign headquarters in Hialeah, Florida surrounded by hundreds of local residents and many students who were there seven days a week helping us make history. I was nervous but inside my heart, I had a gut feeling that we did it. At a personal level, I can tell my children and grandchildren how we helped make history and not just stood on the sidelines to watch history being made. Professionally, I have always dreamed of working for a US President but like many kids growing up, that dream seemed to be just that: a dream.

Q: What are the top three issues that you think Obama should tackle once he is in office and why?
A: I am big on really helping urban America and the working poor. The creation of the White House Office of Urban Policy is definitely a priority. Current urban policy has been reactionary instead of proactive in nature and as a result, its programs almost universally target the symptoms, not the root causes, of the poor people's segregation in shattered neighborhoods.

The current economic crisis is definitely a priority and the President-elect has already taken action pushing for a major stimulus package that will help revive the economy and create jobs for the American people.

Dealing with the Middle East crisis must be priority. This also includes dealing with the situation in Darfur. The United States must act to bring about peace and end the genocide in Darfur. The situation between Israel and Palestinians seem to never end. Darfur keeps getting worst each day. Although much talk has taken place, there's no real action. This needs to change. We must end the genocide or we might as well consider ourselves part of it as well.

Q. Do you believe Obama's win will enhance the quality of life of Latinos and how?
A: I believe President-elect Obama's win will not enhance the quality of life of Latinos but of all Americans. The President-elect knows what is like to struggle but also knows what must be done to make sure that future generations do not go through the same struggles. He's a testament that education is really the key to success and that is something very important for Latinos. It might be difficult and sometimes appear impossible, but he's victory is clearly a sign that whatever we set our minds to we can achieve with sacrifice and education.
On key issues which affect Latinos, such as immigration, education, jobs and housing, the President-elect has specific plans to make sure that no one is left behind and that everyone has the same opportunities he did.

Q: What's next for you? Will you be involved in the Obama camp at all? Are you still interested in running for a political seat here in the Bronx?
A: I do not know what the future holds for me, but I would be honored to serve in his administration if an offer is made. If possible, I would like to be part of the staff at the Office of Urban Policy.
I would not say that I'm no longer interested in running for City Council for the 14th district in the future. It is an option. I'm giving it serious consideration. It will depend on what happens post-January 20th.

Q: Do you have anything else you'd like to share with Bronx Latino readers?
A: I am the founder/executive director of Hands On New York, Inc., a nonprofit founded in 2002 to help low-income individuals and families improve their quality of life and work with at-risk youths in the Bronx and New York City. To date, the organization has served over 3,000 Bronx individuals and families and we have been able to do this without no physical space, grants and/or government funding. For more information about Hands On New York, go to http://hailerivera.com/HandsOnNY.html. -- Clarisel Gonzalez

(Photos courtesy of Haile Rivera. In photo #1, Rivera, right, poses for a photo with then presidential candidate Barack Obama. Photo #2, Rivera campaigns for Obama.)

Letter to President-Elect Barack Obama

Dear Mr. President-elect:

I would like to congratulate you on the historic victory in November. You not only made history by becoming the first African-American President but you began a movement of change, which I was honored to be a part of and look forward to continuing being a part of for years to come.

I am taking the unusual decision of writing, openly, to you in regards to Adolfo Carrion, Jr, current Bronx Borough President and one who has been in the news as the possible Director of the Office of Urban Policy.

As a Bronxite, I know first-hand of Carrion's work and commitment to urban issues affecting not only The Bronx but every American. From education, youth, housing, economic development, domestic violence, transportation, and so on, Carrion has been at the forefront of these issues. I have always admired Carrion for his commitment to the people of The Bronx but more importantly, I have strong admiration for his ability to be honest with the people, a characteristic both of you shared.

After my dinner with you on July 11, 2007, I became more engaged in your campaign, eventually deciding to leave my employer and join Obama For America as a field organizer. I was dispatched to key primary states such as Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Puerto Rico. In the general, I was in charge of Hialeah, Florida, the city with the highest concentration of Cuban-Americans. It was no easy task organizing in Hialeah but ultimately, we achieved our goals and won Florida. The hours were long, sometimes going with little or no sleep, and the work was no walk in the park. The decision of packing my bags and hitting the road with OFA was exciting and came with much sacrifice, having to leave everything behind: my job, home, partner (she later joined OFA as well in Florida) and missing family birthday parties and reunions. Notwithstanding, I was honored to help you become our 44th President.

The possibility that you might be considering appointing Mr. Carrion to lead the Office or Urban Policy makes me even more excited and could not be more proud to have serve on your staff. Mr. Carrion is one of America's brightest and most committed public servant. I support, without any reservations, and hope that you select Mr. Carrion to lead America's urban communities in the right path of success and progress. I can' t think of no better qualified candidate to serve as the Director of the Office of Urban Policy. On a side note, it is also noteworthy to mention that Mr. Carrion could be a great Salsa instructor so that in your next visit to Puerto Rico and hopefully The Bronx, you can display your salsa dancing abilities.

I am looking forward to seeing you again soon. My best to Michelle, Sasha and Malia.

With unbound pride and devotion, I remain,

Most sincerely yours,

Haile Rivera


--
"Making your mark on the world is hard. If it were easy, everybody would do it."
President-elect Barack Obama, July 12, 2006, Campus Progress National Conference

Featured story

Jockeying Heats Up For Bronx Borough Prez Post

Featured site

http://transition.turbulence.org/Works/bronx_rhymes/map.html?id=2

Mapping Hip Hop in the Bx, starting with the "Birthplace of Hip Hop" at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue.

You can even submit your own rhymes as part of this interactive multimedia installation.

Check it out.

The Manhanset (Casa Amadeo), Longwood

The Manhanset (Casa Amadeo), Longwood, Bronx, New York City
Originally uploaded by jag9889

Today's featured shot from the Bronx Latino photo group is by jaq9889 of the building that houses the legendary Casa Amadeo music shop on Prospect Avenue.

Things to do in the Bx

Street Dance: The Hitters!

6-10 p.m. TONIGHT
South Building - Lower Gallery
FREE

Join the Bronx Museum’s First Fridays! Hosted by Rokafella and Kwikstep, husband and wife, co founders of Full Circle Productions, Inc - New York's premiere Hip-hop dance theater company - as they have an open conversation with the original street dancers.
The night will also feature a screening of the trailer for " All the Ladies Say," a film about national and international female break dancers. After a short interlude, La Roka will perform with her band-RPM.
Panelist include: The Executioners, NYC Float Committee, The Transformers, The Breeze Team and United Street Artists.
For more information, www.bronxmuseum.org.

(The Breeze Team, photo courtesy of the Bronx Museum)

Featured story

Lillo Brancato Jr. has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for an attempted burglary that left an NYPD officer dead. Brancato's accomplice, Steven Armento, fatally shot officer Daniel Enchautegui during the botched burglary. The star of 'A Bronx Tale' was acquitted of murder in the death of the officer.
Go to http://www.news12.com or tune into News 12 for more info.

@ Hostos Community College, Bronx, NYC.

@ Hostos Community College, Bronx, NYC.
Originally uploaded by ElPrimo181

Tonight's featured shot from the Bronx Latino photo group is by ElPrimo181 who states "Eugenio Maria de Hostos, educator and revolutionary philosopher of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, and Jose Marti, revolutionary leader of Cuba."

Flags will be Flown at Half-Staff Friday in honor of Bronx Hero

Governor David A. Paterson has directed that flags on State government buildings across New York be flown at half-staff on Friday, January 9, in honor of Bronx resident and United States Marine Lance Corporal Alberto Francesconi, who died January 1, 2009 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Francesconi, a boricua, was a member of the 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division of the II Marine Expeditionary Force based at Camp LeJuene, North Carolina. He died while supporting combat operations in Afghanistan.

“On behalf of all New Yorkers, I wish to extend our condolences to the family, friends, and fellow Marines of Lance Corporal Francesconi,” states Paterson. “Lance Corporal Francesconi’s service to the United State of America will be honored and valued forever.”

Paterson has directed the flags on all State buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor and tribute to our state’s soldiers who are killed in action.

source: press release

Community calendar

Closing of Studio 889's Holiday Print Show
Studio 889 will end it's Holiday Show with a day viewing. There are still prints, bookmarks, tote bags and t-shirts available for sale!
10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, January 10
889 Hunts Point Avenue

The Holiday Print Show is Studio’s 889’s annual fundraising event and is an exhibition of hand-pulled prints by urban printmakers, resident artists, as well as prints contributed by community artists and selected artists who responded to an open call for printmakers. Submissions from as far as Seattle and California in the United States, and worldwide from Argentina, Australia, Scotland, and the Netherlands are coming into this Bronx printmaking studio!

Exhibiting Artists include: Alain Porher, Anna Myers, Autum Prater, Avery Elizabeth Miller, Bonnie Cook, Carlos Cazares, Caroline List, Christopher Staples, Craig Burkhalter, Daria Zapala, David Thomas, David Yearwood, Dawn Arkontaky, Deborah Sosawer, Diana Moll, Don Becktel, Edwige Bregen-Hopfner, Elaine Pessoa, Elizabeth Winchester, Estela Soler, Filipa Farraia, Gabriel Vieira, Gyoung sun Kim, Hilda Paz Levozan, Imogen Duthie, Jacqui Dunham, Jasmine Swisher, Jenn Erwin, Johannes Gerard, John Shlichta, Jose Romero, Judith Raphael, Julie Brown Smith, Keith Hatcher, Kim Koynock, Laura Cantor, Laura Lengyel, Lisa D. Archigian, Luciane Chio, Marcie Myrick, Margaret E. Graham, Maria Doering, Melanie Dunston, Nora Howard, Pamela Zwehl-Burke, Patricia Cheyne, Randolf Beers, Renee Johnson, Rosa Brugulat, Rosemarie Greco, Samantha Fonseca, Sandy Placido, Sara Jeanné Murphy, Sarah Piper, Savannah Martinez, Sharon Nakazato, Sheila Tintera, Simone Ellis, Stacie Clark, Tara O'Sullivan, Theodora Varnay Jones, Tom Shlichta, Wayne Henkel, and Yuji Hiratsuka.

A percentage of the proceeds from art sales will go to support Studio 889 in Hunts Point, a nonprofit visual arts gallery, workshop and classroom whose mission is to cultivate an artistic environment that encourages creative development, technical experimentation, and the exchange of ideas by providing arts in education, community and professional printmaking workshops.

For more information, contact:
Alejandra Delfin
Phone: 718-620-2824
Email: studio889info@gmail.com
Website: www.Studio889.org

Community calendar

Martin Luther King Interfaith Service
10 a.m., Monday, January 19
Trinity Baptist Church
808 East 224th Street, between Barnes and Bronxwood avenues
For more information, (718) 590-3989

Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión and Bronx elected officials will honor the legacy and memory of the late, civil rights leader, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at an interfaith service at Trinity Baptist Church. This year’s theme is, “Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On, Not A Day Off .”

The annual interfaith service will be co-hosted by the Bronx Borough President and Pastor Naomi Tyler Lloyd of Trinity Baptist Church.

Latino Sports Remembers Clemente

Marking the anniversary of the death of one of Puerto Rico's giants, Latino Sports recently had an exhibition in honor of Roberto Clemente, the fallen baseball player.
December 31 is not only New Year's Eve. It is a day to remember Clemente, who was more than just an athlete. He was a humanitarian who died on his way to help others. On December 31, 1972, Clemente had taken upon himself to direct personally a relief mission to earthquake torn Nicaragua. Bound to Nicaragua, Clemente and four others loaded a small DC-7 plane with food and supplies that never got past the San Juan, Puerto Rico border as the plane almost immediately crashed into 30 feet of water in the Caribbean Sea.
During the month of December, Latino Sports on the Grand Concourse celebrated its 2008 21 Days of Clemente exhibit at the clubhouse.
Latino Sports is among those involved in the movement to retire of Clemente's 21 from Major League Baseball in tribute to the legacy of Clemente.
For more information, visit www.latinosports.com.
While there, check out this article titled "Remembering Clemente on the Holidays" at http://latinosports.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=214&Itemid=66.

(Photo courtesy of Latino Sports)

Happy Three Kings Day

IMG_2929
Originally uploaded by clarisel

Children perform a Nativity play with a Latino flavor at St. Jerome's Church as part of their Three Kings Day celebration on Sunday.

For more of my photos from the kids' play at St. Jerome's, go to www.flickr.com/photos/clarisel. Click on the Navidad '08-Reyes '09 photo set.

Has un bien

The Patriotas Softball Team invite you to a domino and bingo event to help raise money for the heart operation of Fausto Reyes in the Dominican Republic. Team members describe Reyes as "our great brother, friend and athlete." Reyes was a player in the Roberto Clemente league.

Fundraising activities:
There will be a domino tournament: $5 per player.
Trophies will be given to the best teams.

There will also be a bingo game: $1 per player.

8:30 p.m., Saturday, January 10
El Maestro, Inc.
1029 E. 167 St.
Information, (646) 337-6775

If you have an event that you think should be included in Bronx Latino's new "Has un bien" section, e-mail me at bronxlatinoblog@yahoo.com for consideration.

source: El Maestro

Bronx Latino Poll: Majority of our readers identify as Puerto Rican

Seventy-percent of readers who took part in a Bronx Latino informal poll identified themselves as Puerto Rican. Ten percent identified as Dominican and 20 percent chose the other option, identifying themselves as Ecuadorian.

Thanks to everyone who took part in our poll.