THE © YEAR VI Nº 4 FEB, 21 2017 , avana eporter ISSN 2224-5707 YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE H R Price: A Bimonthly Newspaper of the Prensa Latina News Agency 1.00 CUC, 1.00 USD, 1.20 CAN

Cuban Business Delegation Visits US P. 3

Foreign P. 4 Investment in Cuba’s Oil Industry Cuba Health & Culture Sports International Science Cuban Dance Puerto Rico Teaching Conference Cuba Combats Company’s U.K. Claims Caribbean in Havana Biodiversity Loss Tour Baseball Crown P. 4 P. 5 P. 10 P. 15 2 Caracol S.A. Stands Out at the Havana Cigar Festival

The Cigar Houses, attached to the Caracol rums and cigars in spaces designed to S.A. company, are an ideal place to create fully enjoy these pleasures. the most exquisite tastes of cigar lovers. The Cigar Festival, held each year In these places, clients can enjoy the at the halls of the Havana’s Conference excellent service they deserve. Centre, gives participants the possibility In over 12 Cigar Houses located of finding the perfect combination all over Cuba, clients can acquire the between liquors and cigars. three most emblematic products of Meanwhile, the 30th edition of the country: the world’s best cigar the Amigos de Partagás Meeting is trademarks; the Cuban rums, and the scheduled for November at the Partagás Cuban coffee. Trademarks such as Romeo Cigar House, the first created in Cuba in y Julieta, Montecristo and Cohíba are 1993. This trademark sells over 2 million commercialized in these houses. cigars every year. Another distinctive element of the The Partagás Cigar House, also Cigar Houses is the experience and the attached to the Caracol company, is quality of the cigar rollers. Thisveteran located at Real Fábrica de Tabacos, (Calle trade allows getting a perfect balance Industria 520 e/Dragones y Barcelona) between the cigar’s wrappers and at the core of Havana. Since November theirfillings when making the product. 1998, this cigar house organizes these This, in turn, results in the cigar’s perfect meetings with the purpose of bringing burning when lighting it up, and in its together its most loyal clients, who are ductility when smoking it. already considered friends, but also those A specialized attention and the who join every year to celebrate another guarantee of being able to enjoy the best anniversary of the cigar house. cigars in the world, make visitors of the For a week, the Partagás Cigar Cigar Houses become regular clients of House offers several activities, including these places. welcome dinner and Gala with artistic One of the characteristics of these show; visits to places of interest centres is the presence, in most of them, for smokers; beach day; visit to the of a cigar roller, who shows visitors how countryside; lots; auctions, and other cigars are made – as some people prefer recreational options, and all the time in to buy cigars once they’ve seen how the world to smoke at the House with these are done. the friends. The Cigar Houses, attached to the This event, which every year attracts a Caracol S.A. company, will stand out higher number of clients – over 350- has in the XIX Cigar Festival, to take place collected through the auctions and other from February 28 to March 3. During this initiatives considerable sums of money edition, clients will enjoy the traditional that have been donated to the Cuban Cocktail Night, a special occasion to taste public health. CUBA 3 Cuban Business Delegation Visits US By MasielFERNANDEZ

PHOTO: Courtesy of trabajadores.cu PHOTO: of Mobile and Mariel, in the western A Cuban business delegation recently Cuban Special Development Zone of concluded an intense working visit to same name (ZEDM). the United States, where they met with Official Cuban sources revealed that businessmen and politicians, visited Alabama was one of the first U.S. states companies and modern port facilities to trade with Cuba, once the possibility and signed bilateral agreements. arose at the beginning of the last decade. During the visit, Cuban delegation There are also members of that members met with representatives of state’s business community interested in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, port further diversification and the purchase authorities and parliament members of Cuban products not presently on U.S. in Washington. Markets, due to the blockade. The Cuban embassy in Washington The Cuban delegation, which also held said in a press release that the group activities in Louisiana, Florida and Texas, also participated in roundtable talks, was led by ZEDM general director Ana organized by U.S. Chamber of Commerce Teresa Igarza and by José Sosa, deputy Vice President for the Americas, Jodi director of the Mariel Container Terminal. Hanson Bond. Other Cuban delegation members They also met with Kurt Nagle, included Eradis González, of Almacenes American Association of Port Authorities Universales S.A. President and René R. president, an institution that represents Fernández, the Sea and River Transport more than 140 ports and 240 maritime Director of Cuba’s Transport Ministry. suppliers from , the United States, Both Greg Abbot, the Governor of Latin America and the Caribbean. Texas and Houston Mayor Sylvester Cuba’s ambassador in the United Turner, who visited Cuba in 2015 States, José Ramón Cabañas, described and 2016, respectively, called for a meeting the visitors held with a strengthening of economic and members of the House Cuba Working commercial relations with Cuba and for Group as “fruitful”. the lifting of the blockade. During a two-day stay in Virginia, Washington and Havana resumed the Cubans were welcomed by the diplomatic relations in July 2015. State Secretaries of Commerce, Todd Dozens of bilateral agreements and Haymore and Agriculture and Forestry, memorandums of understanding have

Basil Gooden. Courtesy of cubadebate PHOTOs: been signed over the past few months in Whilst there, they visited the chapter, a coalition working for the of Port Authorities conference, was one different spheres of mutual interest. Perdue Agribusiness Company and the lifting of the economic, commercial and result of the Cuban delegation´s visit to Cuban authorities however insist Virginia International Gateway modern financial blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States, which concluded on that the still in effect blockade, first container terminal. the US. February 3. imposed by the United States on They also held a meeting with the The signing of a memorandum of According to analysts, the February 7, 1962 is the fundamental state’s Port Authority and attended understanding with Alabama´s Port of memorandum facilitates the obstacle to the normalization of the launch of an Engage Cuba Virginia Mobile during an American Association strengthening of links between the ports bilateral relations process.

A Weekly Newspaper of the Prensa Latina News Agency SOCIETY.HEALTH & SCIENCE.POLITICS.CULTURE THE YOUR SOURCE OF NEWS & MORE ENTERTAINMENT.PHOTO FEATURE.ECONOMY HavanaReporter SPORTS.AND MORE President: Luis Enrique González. Graphic Designers: Laura Reyes. Publisher: Agencia Informativa Latinoamericana, Information Vice President: Hector Miranda. Chief Graphic Editor: Alfredo G. Pierrat Prensa Latina, S.A. Editorial Vice President: Maitté Marrero Canda. Advertising: Irina Hernández Calle E, esq. 19 No. 454, Vedado, La Habana-4, Cuba. Chief Editor: Ilsa Rodríguez. Circulation: Commercial Department. Telephone: (53)7838-3496 / 7832-3578 Fax: (53)7833-3068 Translation: Dayamí Interián/ Sean J. Clancy/Yanely Interián Printing: Agencia de Comunicación Publicitur S.A. E-mail: [email protected] 4 CUBA Foreign Investment in Cuba’s Oil Industry RobertoSALOMÓN

Delegates from Russia, China, , Another area ripe for foreign , France, the United Kingdom, investment in Cuba is deep water oil Panama and other Latin American exploration in the Gulf of Mexico Economic and North American companies were Exclusive Zone (ZEE, in Spanish), where advised on potential in the sector for reserves are estimated at 22 billion barrels. foreign capital investments by Cupet, the According to Suárez, Cupet has already Cuban government and its authorities signed 42 contracts with companies from and operators and current suppliers of a diverse range of interests. key services. Its primary endeavors to promote They also learned about present foreign investment include the signing exploration and production projects, the of agreements for increased production, petrochemical and refinery sectors and unconventional oil and the development relevant existing legislation. of an oil infrastructure for technical Cupet, celebrating its 25th anniversary services and the supply of resources. on March 25, is responsible for oil and The entity also has a presence at the gas exploration and production and the Mariel Special Development Zone through commercialization of both. the execution of four projects, one of them The Cuba-Petróleo Union, comprising a high-tech lubricant plant.

PHOTOs: Vladimir Molina PHOTOs: 35 state companies and several joint Commercial priorities include the Cuba‘s openness to enhanced now is to increase that amount through ventures, has a staff of 23,264 -- 37% of transfer of technology to ensure a strong levels of foreign investment for collaborations with foreign partners.” which are women. market presence and infrastructural national hydrocarbon production The Cuba Oil & Gas 2017 Summit, It also has a high degree of developments to facilitate increased development strategies was outlined organized jointly by the International scientific-technical human potential: production and storage capacity. during a recent two day Oil and Gas Research Networks (IRN) and Cupet, was half of all employees are university Some of the topics addressed at the Summit held in Havana. held at the Cuban Hotel Tryp Habana. graduates or technicians. Havana Summit included: the possibility Roberto Suárez, deputy director of IRN’s business director, Paola Galanti, The Union produces 4 million tons of mutual cooperation with countries the Cuba-Petróleo Union (Cupet), told the told The Havana Reporter that over of oil annually in only one of 45 blocks wishing to work with Cuba; regulations forum that “almost half our total domestic 300 executives and business people located in the country’s northern strip. and fiscal regime in the sector; presence of energy needs are met through national representing 70 companies from 15 Almost the entire volume is used for the the world’s oil technology in Cuba, and an hydrocarbons. Our principal challenge countries had participated. generation of electricity. evaluation of unconventional oil potential.

recurrent topics at many of the workshops and symposiums. The inaugural “Source of Thinking, International Teaching Unity and Hope” presentation was given by Cuba´s Education Minister Ena Elsa Velázquez. A special “, Teacher of Hope” panel was dedicated to the Conference in Havana historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, By VivianaDÍAZ during which personalities such as the Venezuelan Education Minister Elías Jaua and the Brazilian Theologian Frei Betto, praised Fidel´s ideas on teaching. UNESCO official Jordan Naidoo described the Cuban system of guaranteeing a free quality education at all levels as an example for the world. Another Pedagogy 2017 -- first held in 1986 and celebrated every two years -- highlight was the intervention of 2014 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Kailash Satyarthi, who congratulated Cuba‘s government for prioritizing children‘s educative and social programs, despite the country´s economic problems and the U.S. blockade. Satyarthi also criticized the fact that 168 million children in the world are affected by slavery, some 80 million of whom work under subhuman conditions, Courtesy of juventud rebelde Courtesy of juventud PHOTO: because governments lack political will. Recently held at Havana´s Convention Fidel Castro, the 55th anniversary of from Latin America and Caribbean In his closing speech, Cuba´s First Center under the motto, “Towards the Cuban Literacy Campaign and the delegates, were debated in the sessions Vice President Miguel Díaz-Canel, the Unity of All Educators,” the 2017 50th anniversary of the assassination of that concluded on February 3. said the congress provided a perfect International Pedagogy Congress Ernesto „Che“ Guevara. Papers on the education of indigenous opportunity to strengthen the cultural provided space to debate educative The event brought more than 3,000 communities in Latin America, new identity of nations and to rescue their strategies essential for the provision of delegates from 51 countries, including and efficient global programs for best teaching traditions, essential for universal quality education. education ministers and vice ministers special education and the optimal use the construction of an emancipating This 15th edition was dedicated to the from different parts of the world, together. of information and communication educational platform to fight unfolding historic leader of the Cuban Revolution A total of 1,945 presentations, mostly technologies in education were ideological and cultural battles. HEALTH & SCIENCE 5 Cuba Combats Biodiversity Loss By Ana LauraARBESÚ Courtesy of Parque Humboldt Courtesy of Parque PHOTOs:

Cuba, under the auspices of theUN and temperatures and drought conditions. Development Program (UNDP), is Having already been presented to implementing a strategic flora and the Conference of the Parties to the fauna conservation and preservation species loss, coping with primary threats, with the loss of animal and plant species. Convention on Biological Diversity initiative that involves an undertaking to encouraging the sustainable exploitation Bauza told The Havana Reporter (COP13) last December in Cancun, implement a series of concrete actions of species and the conservation of that the goals focus on the main Mexico, the report’s authors state that until the year 2020. ecosystems, habitats, species and genes challenges that productive sectors the plan complies with UN Convention The national study, led by Cuba’s are some of the program’s goals. must face to ensure the sustainable on Climate Change commitments and Environment Agency’s Ecology and Launching the strategy, the UND’s use of natural resources and restore aims to establish a series of actions with Systematic Institute, incorporates resident representative in Cuba, Soledad the health of ecosystems. relevant and realistic goals. 20 goals and five concrete targets, Bauza, stressed the importance of the The strategy also plays a leading role Its primary purpose is to identify intended to stem biodiversity program, which is the principal strand of a in the fight against climate. and establish priorities to halt deterioration and destruction. plan for implementing strategic national Given its insular state condition, Cuba is biodiversity loss though preservation Addressing the underlying causes of environmental policy objectives, to cope highly vulnerable to rising average sea levels and sustainable use. Parasites Under the Microscope By Nicholas VALDÉS

Dr Ángel Escobedo, the Deputy Chairman of the Cuban Microbiology and Parasitology Society, has cautioned that the global prevalence of Giardia Lambia related diseases demand that specialists constantly enhance their understanding of the issues that arise. Studies have revealed that infections are not limited to developing countries, as previously thought. Dr Escobedo explained that even United States, New Zealand, Mexico, though third-world countries have Norway, , , France, Sweden, poorer hygienic conditions that favor Egypt and most Latin American nations. the spread of these diseases -- mainly The conference will primarily focus among children, the under nourished on genomic and trans-cryptomic and the ill -- there has been a rise in themes, clinical evidence, treatment recent years of the number of cases in and epidemiology. developed nations, particularly among Escobedo added that the conference travelers and homosexuals. is not only aimed at specialists in clinical In an interview with The Havana parasitology, but to pediatricians, Reporter, the parasitology specialist gastroenterologists, doctors of internal outlined how Cuba has been a world medicine and veterinarians, given that leader in the control of multiple its principal purpose is to assess the parasitic diseases and why Havana subject from diverse perspectives. was selected to host next April’s 6th He concluded his remarks by International Conference on Giardia highlighting that health professors, Lambia and Cryptosporidium. studies have been conducted on the upcoming conference, because of the economists and geographers will all The specialist said that “Malaria and parasite. We are however, a bit behind importance of its results in the field. have their own spaces at the conference, other parasites have been eliminated in in our research on Cryptosporidium.” To date, more than 100 participants because community perspectives on Cuba, but that Giardia Lambia related Dr Escobedo pointed out that Cuba from many countries have confirmed parasite infection should complement diseases remain, although several was nevertheless chosen to host the their attendance. These include the those of the laboratory and hospitals. 6 CUBA 19th Century Bellamar Caves Tourist Guide By WilfredoALAYÓN

Three outstanding natural features come to mind when “His guide is instilled with that same spirit. In talking about the western Cuban Matanzas province: the describing the caves beauty, Guiteras Font’s discourse is majestic Yumurí Valley, the stunningly beautiful Varadero intentionally directed at English-speaking readers and Beach and the unique Bellamar Cave. endeavors to arouse their interest in the place.” Located on a hill overlooking the bay of Matanzas – A copy of this 23 page, 11 cm wide and 15.5 cm long 100 km east of Havana - this Palaeolithic cave system is bilingual guide can be found in the Rare and Valuable internationally renowned for its speleological value. Funds Hall of the Gener y del Monte Library, in Matanzas, Time has sculpted stalactites, stalagmites and other where it is conscientiously cared for. calcareous formations, with names such as Manto de The text is divided into two parts: the first, in Spanish, Colón; Virgen con el Niño, and Nido de la Lechuza, has 19 pages and the second in English, has 4. inspired by their intriguing shapes. “This peculiar feature lends a particular significance The cave was accidently discovered in 1861 by Vladimir Molina PHOTO: to the guide, which according to Jiménez de la Cal, is Manuel Santos Parga, the then owner of the Alcancía of their works surpassed the Bellamar Cave Guide, a thought to be the first bilingual book about, written and estate, where the cave - Cuba’s oldest tourist center profoundly descriptive work by Eusebio Guiteras Font, edited in Matanzas”. - is located. first edited in 1863 by the Matanzas based El Ferrocarril The first pages offer a comprehensive description The cave opened to the public as a commercial publishing house.” of Bellamar. The book then goes on to summarize the enterprise 154 years ago. discovery of the site, the origin of its name and directions On November 22nd, 1862, Santos Parga a Spanish EUSEBIO GUITERAS FONT to its location. miner with an entrepreneurial mind opened the cave to It includes a description of different formations, the keen and curious local community. Historical records reveal that Guiteras Font was a highlighting the Gothic Temple, the Altar and the Improvements to the cave included an accessible revolutionary intellectual who devoted his entire life Guardian of the Cave. entrance, the extension of some galleries, artificial to teaching. Guiteras Font’s guide concludes with a section on lighting and informative signs in four languages based He was the driving force behind the foundation of the cave’s geographical location, average temperature, on a review by historian, Arnaldo Jiménez de la Cal. the La Empresa school, one of the finest in Cuba and humidity and other environmental details that Renowned writers of the time, like Álvaro Reynoso, Spain at the time. indicate the quality of the information provided to José Victoriano Betancourt, Arturo Falcón, Domingo The researcher says that “his reading books represent 19th-century visitors. Figuerola and Jacobo de la Pezuela, were inspired to put his very best work. All his writings express a love for He also provided them with guidance on pen to paper about the cave. Cuba, his sense of national identity and a burning desire “the easiest and most pleasant way to access the Jiménez de la Cal, however, considers that “none to liberate his homeland”. geographical formation”. Science and History Enriched By Speleology

Established in the central Cuban province of Sancti Five years of exploration unearthed some 3,000 Spiritus more than 60 years ago, the Samá speleological archaeological, aboriginal and/or colonial findings that group has made a significant contribution to the fields proved the existence of cross-cultural elements and of both history and science in Cuba. the district’s original location. It has unearthed almost 90 archaeological sites in the central Cuban region, including the Furnia de los THE SAMÁ STORY Perros, in the Guamuhaya mountains range, which at 1,029m above sea level, is Cuba’s highest karst cave. According to SAMA director Alejandro Romero The discovery of Cuba’s deepest cave (440m) and Emperador, it was his father, Manuel Romero, a largest stalagmite (67m high, weighing 15,000 tons) speleology enthusiast, who first created the group in the Martín Cave, in the province of Cienfuegos also in 1954. rank amongst the groups impressive results. He told The Havana Reporter that “the name Samá Samá has identified the fossil remains of numerous was inspired by one of the groups earliest expeditions species that lived in Cuba thousands of years ago, a to the small town of Boca de Samá, in the eastern Cuban carnivorous plant that because of its size, can only Its expeditions to central Cuba’s Guamuhaya province of Holguín.” consume small insects, and eleven new types of spiders mountain range led to the discovery of a cave used as Back then, the project comprised a few family that live in the caverns of Guamuhaya. military arsenal during the wars of independence. members and friends with an interest in that area due The group’s renowned commitment throughout its In May 2013, scientists from the group revealed the to its proximity to the sea and other archaeological 60 years resulted in the discovery of the most important exact spot on which Cuba’s fourth town -- the Village of sites such as Chorro de Maíta, in Banes municipality. paleontological site in the Caribbean, adjacent to the the Holy Spirit – was founded by Spanish in 1514. Romero Emperador, who is also president of the of Zaza River in Sancti Spiritus, containing the largest The discovery placed Sancti Spíritus about seven Cuban Speleologists Association, explained that Samá number of and oldest terrestrial vertebrate fossils ever kilometers from its current location, in a place known was originally the name of that region’ s legendary found in the region. as Polo Viejo. indigenous chief. SPOTLIGHT ON 7 SPOTLIGHT ON A Miraculous and Endless Love By CiroBIANCHI ROSS

Perhaps her one and only true joy earned the respect of many soon to hold his home life and about the profound was her relationship with a cousin José important positions in the Island. sorrows he felt. Vicente that commenced when she was When both the Marquis and Amelia’s He asked for her advice and help. just seven years old. father had passed away, Doña Inés He walked slowly around the tomb, and Her parents opposed the relationship wholeheartedly gave her niece in when the time came to leave, he never because they wanted to eventually find marriage to José Vicente. turned his back to her, as a sign of respect. a husband of a higher standard for their They married at a private family reunion. He walked away with head bowed. daughter. Still, the young romantics A year later, Amelia tragically died in Some people, although not many at

PHOTO: Courtesy of Radiorebelde PHOTO: secretly sustained their relationship. childbirth. She was only 24 years old, as first, started to imitate him. Amelia Goyri is far better known as La When Amelia was 13 years old, her was her beloved José Vicente. But the number gradually increased, milagrosa than by her name and many mother died, and shortly after, José Vicente But death could not break their union especially after an ornate statue was consider her a saint. enrolled the Liberation Army to fight for and following Amelia’s burial, on May 3rd, erected over the tomb in 1909. Her tomb in the Colón cemetery, is the independence of his homeland. 1901, José Vicente devoted himself to This disturbed José Vicente, who always covered by offerings and messages Amelia’s father signed custody of his carefully caring for the place his only rose complained to cemetery authorities of gratitude from those who, in a moment daughter over to his aunt Doña Inés, who forever lay. that he didn’t want people converging of distress, pleaded to her for help. was married to Don Pedro de Balboa, He went early every morning, around the tomb of his beloved. But his And many believe she answered Marquis of Balboa, Spain. dressed in black with hat in hand and complaints were to no avail. heartfelt prayers that almost always Now far from her José Vicente, but ritually touched the second adorning His humble and loving worship of implored reunion with a sweetheart and never forgetting his charms, Amelia doorknocker of the tomb’s right side. Amelia had inspired a ritual that survived the restart of a relationship. became accustomed to the high society In doing so, he would imagine he was his own death in 1941. Amelia Goyri was born into a middle life of a girl from the luxurious Balboa waking his lovely Amelia up, who was Amelia had become the miraculous class family in Havana in 1879 and her palace. sleeping and not dead. lady: La Milagrosa. life seems to have been marked by sad The war ended and José Vicente Arranging flowers, he would tell To this day, her tomb is the most misfortune. returned with the rank of captain, having her about his progress at work, about visited of all in the Colon cemetery. 200 Years of “El Floridita” Cocktails Text and Photos By FranciscoMENÉNDEZ

The restaurant´s manager, Ariel Blanco the International Habanos Sommelier spoke to The Havana Reporter about a Contest, a combined food, drink and cigar range of activities planned throughout tasting test. this year, to promote the bar’s quality, Specializing in fresh seafood, the history and international prestige. restaurant on Old Havana’s emblematic 2017 will be a joyous year for Havana’s One of the highlights will be a Obispo Street has been visited by famous El Floridita restaurant and bar, visit in October by more than 200 celebrities such as Paco Rabanne, Naomi which will mark the 200th anniversary representatives of the International Campbell, Matt Dillon, Kate Moss, Danny hand to offer to his guest; gin, vermouth, of its founding in July with an ample Bartenders Association (IBA), who Glover, Jack Nicholson, Fito Páezand, Jean rum, sugar and lemon. program of cocktail competitions and will join their Cuban colleagues for Paul Belmondo and an array of Hollywood Another story dates back to the 1898 other celebratory events. festivities bicentennial. stars during the 1940s and 50s. U.S. troops landing at Daiquiri beach. Their The popular bar is almost always The visitors will judge the King Its symbolic daiquiri cocktail has commander, General Shafter, supposedly teeming with tourists intent on tasting of Kings International Cocktail become legendary and different tales mixed rum, lemon and sugar drink and its renowned “daiquiri” tropical cocktail, Competition, a culmination of the relating to its origin are told. then added some ice to give his invention immortalized by US writer, Erenest famous The Daiquiri King, dedicated to One claims that the engineer a special touch. Heminway, during the last century. the Floridita’s flagship beverage. Pagliuchi, captain of the Cuban liberation Years later, the Spanish-born Originally named La Piña de Plata, the El Blanco said that some surprises are army, first made one at the Daiquiri gold bartender Emilio ¨Maragato¨ Gonzales Floridita Bar and Restaurant first opened its also in store for Cuba’s Bartenders´ Day mine in the eastern Cuban province of made the drink popular in Havana and doors on July 6, 1817. celebrations on October 7. Santiago de Cuba. his fellow countryman Constantino In 1953 the U.S. magazine Esquire Two of the 55 people working at It is said that the captain, on meeting Ribalaigua Veri (Constante) was listed it as one of the seven most famous the bar -- Zudlay Nápoles and Orlando his U.S. colleague Jennings S. Cox, mixed responsible for its subsequent close bars in the world. Blanco, the house maître -- have won the drink from the only things he had on association with the El Floridita. 8 ENTERTAINMENT& LISTINGS

TEATHERTEATHER

Bertolt Brecht

(THR is not responsible for any changes made by sponsoring organizations) GETTINGBasílica Menor de San Museo Casa Benito Juárez AROUND By MaylínZALDIVAR [email protected] Francisco de Asís Obrapía e/ Mercaderes y Oficio. Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 861-8166. Fri. Feb. 24 (3 pm): Singer Rogelio RECOMMENDS Rivas. •Moncada band and Casa Victor Hugo Casino Dancing for All at 1830 Restaurant

Teatro de la Villa El Ciervo Encantado Calle 18 e/ Línea y 11. Vedado. Tel: 7 833-6982. Fri. Feb. 24, Sat. 25, Sun. 26 (8:30 pm): Departures (El Ciervo Encantado). Oficios e/ Amargura y Churruca, Calle 13 esq. I. Vedado. Tel: 7 832- Ludi Teatro Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 862-9683. 9359. Fri. Feb. 24, Sat. 25 (8:30 Calle I entre 9 y 11 Vedado. Fri. Sat. Feb. 25 (6 pm): Ventus pm), Sun. 26 (5 pm): La mesa Feb. 28- Sat. Apr. 29 (8:30 pm): Habana quintet. Guest: Madaris está servida (Meal is Ready!) by Nos vemos (See you!) by (Ludi Morgan (piano), Mirelis Morgan (Pequeño Teatro de la habana). Teatro). (violin), Z-Saxos quartet. Café Teatro. Sat. 25, Sun. 26 (11 am): ¨Bota roja¨ (Red Boot) by MUSIC Museo Nacional de Bellas O´Reilly e/ Habana y Aguiar. (Teatro Gaviota). Sala teatro Tito MUSIC Artes (National Museum of Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 866-7591. Junco. Fri. 24, Sat. 25 (8:30 pm), Fine Arts) Fri. Feb.24 (5 pm): Cáliz Duo: Sun. 26 (5 pm): El Espejo (The Casa del Alba Cultural Luis Manuel Molina (guitar) and Mirror) by (Ludy Teatro). Vicente Monterrey (clarinet).

Museo -Teatro de Títeres Desamparados y Dr. Mora, Plaza de Armas El Arca Guanabacoa. Tel: 7 797-7984. Avenida del Puerto y Obrapía. Thu. Feb. 23, Fri. 24 (2:30 pm): La Habana Vieja, Ciudad de La Odios y amores, puertas y Habana. Tel: 7 864-8953. Fri. Feb. dragones¨ (Hatred and Love, 24, Sat. 25, Sun. 26 (3 pm): El Hijo Doors and Dragons) by (Teatro del Viento (The Son of the Wind) de la Villa). Fri. 24, Sat. 25, Sun. 26 by (El arca Teatro). (4:30 pm): El Magos de Oz (The Wizard of Oz) by (Teatro de la Teatro América Villa).

Teatro Raquel Revuelta

Calle Refugio e/ Zulueta y Monserrate. Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 861-0241.Edificio de Arte Cubano. Sat. Feb. 25 (3 pm): Cantus Youth Choir conducted by Miguel Zequeira.

Casa Africa (Africa House Museum) Obispo y Mercaderes.Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 860-9530. Fri. Feb. 26 (ALBA Cultural Center) (4 pm): National Concert Band Calle Línea e/ C y D, Vedado. Tel: performs. 7 833-2151.Thu. Feb. 23 (6 pm): Club El Canto de todos with Patio-Bar Egrem Vicente Feliú. Sun. 26 (5 pm): San Miguel e/ Campanario y Club De Nuestra América. Lealtad. Centro Habana. Tel: 7 Línea esq. B. Vedado Tel: 7 833- 864-2006. Wed. Feb. 22 (5 pm): Avenida de Italia (Galiano) No. 0225. Fri. Feb. 24, Sat. 25, Sun. Pabellón Cuba Obrapía e/ San Ignacio y Ihosvany Bernal, Samuel Águila, 253, Esq. a Concordia.Tel: 7 862- 26 (8:30 pm): Manera de usar el Calle 23 esq. N. Vedado. Fri. Feb. Mercaderes. Habana Vieja. Tel:7 Diego Cano, Juan Carlos Pérez 5416. Sat. Feb. 25 (11 am): Azul corazón por fuera (How to Show 24 (5 pm): Silvio Alejandro (trova 861-5798. Wed. Feb. 22 (10 and Benito de la Fuente (trova Marino Children´s Company Your Heart) by (Teatro 2 de music). Guests: Juan Carlos am): Singer Noemí Valdés and music). Sat. 25 (5 pm): Singer performs. Santa Clara). Pérez, Erick Méndez. guitarist Jesús Fleites. Narciso Suárez. ENTERTAINMENT& LISTINGS 9

GETTING PalacioAROUND de la Rumba Sede la Jiribila Jardines del 1830 Casa de la Música de NIGHTCLUBS & Calle 5ta y D Vedado. Todo NIGHTCLUBS & CABARETS Calle Malecón e/ 20 y 22. Miramar febrero hasta viernes. Mar. 31. CABARETS Vedado. Tel: 7 838- 3090 Thu. Avenida 35 esq. a 20, Miramar, Photo exhibition Despedida Feb.23 (8:30 pm): Project Casino Playa. Tel: 7 204-044. Salón Te (Farewell) by Daniela Muñoz Teatro Nacional de Cuba Dancing for All. Sun. 26 (5 pm): Quedarás. Fri. Feb. 24 (5 pm): El Barroso and Jorge Ricardo. Moncada band and Casino Niño y la Verdad band. Sat. 25 Dancing for All. (11 pm): Osain del Monte folk Factoría Habana band. Diablo Tun Tun. Sat. 25 (11 Hotel Habana Libre pm): Gens rock band.

El Sauce Avenida 9na e/ 164 y 120. Playa. Tel: 7 204-7114.Sun. Feb. 26 (5pm): Frank Delgado and his club “Máquina de la Melancolía”.

San Miguel e/ Hospital y Café Miramar Aramburu. Centro Habana. Tel: Calle 94 esq 5ta. Playa Miramar. 7 873-0990.Tue. Feb. 21 (4 pm): Tel: 7 203-7676. Tue. Feb. 21 (9 Septeto Habanero band. Sat. pm): Reina and la Real (Rap). Tue. 25 (4 pm): Mario Michell. Sun. 28 (9 pm): Primera Base band 21, 28 (6 pm): Timbalaye band performs. performs. Calle L e/ 23 y 25. Vedado. Tel: 7 DANCE MUSEUMS AND Loma y 39, Plaza de la 834-6100. Turquino. Mon. Feb. DANZA Revolución.Tel: 878-5590.Café 20, 27 (11 pm): El Chispa y los MUSEUMSGALLERIES AND GALLERIES Cantante. Tue. Feb. 21, 28 (5 Cómplices band. Wed. 22 (11 Gran Teatro de La Habana pm-9 pm): El Noro y 1ra. Clase pm): Caribe Girls band. Sat. 25 Alicia Alonso (Grand Theater of Museo Nacional de Bellas band performs. Thu. 23 (8:30 (10 pm): Fiebre Latina band. Havana) Artes pm): Sonrisa Caribeña band. Calle Paseo de Martí esq. Calle San Rafael e/ Zulueta Delirio Habanero. Sat. 25 (11 Centro Cultural Fresa y Boulevard San Rafael. Centro (Agramonte) y Monserrate O´Reilly e/ Habana y Aguiar. pm): Sony K performs. Chocolate Habana. Tel: 7 861-5873. Sala (Ave. de las Misiones), Habana Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 864- 9518. García Lorca. Fri. Feb. 24 Sat. 25 Vieja. Tel:7 861-5777. Edificio de Through Sun. Apr. 30 (10 am): Bertolt Brecht (8:30 pm) and Sun. 26 (5 pm): Arte Universal. Through March Design exhibition Diógenes y la Calle 13 esq. I. Vedado. Tel: 7 832- Giselle by Cuba´s National Ballet (10 am): Exhibition “Diecisiete luz by Octavio Cesar Marín and 9359. Fri. Feb. 24 (11 pm): Miel Company. menos uno” (Seventeen Minus José Ángel Toirac. con Limón band (alternative One) by Michelangelo Pistoletto. music). Hotel Mesón de la Flota Centro Wifredo Lam Mercaderes e/Teniente Rey y Museo Castillo de La Real Jardines del Teatro Mella Amargura: Habana Vieja. Tel: Fuerza 7 863-3838. Sat. Feb. 25, Mon. 27 (7:30 pm): Flamenco music performance by Ecos company.

Calle 23 e/ 10 y 12. Vedado. Tel: 2nd International Fri. Feb. 24 (11 pm): Orley Cruz. Wed. 22 (5 pm): Marta Sánchez Salsa Dancing and guitarist JesúsFleites. Festival. Submarino Amarillo (Yellow Submarine)

San Ignacio, esquina a Empedrado. Habana Vieja. Tel: 7 861-2096. Through March 10: Lost by Michael Bielicky and Kamila Richter (Germany). Through March 17: Sculpture exhibition by Pedro Pablo Oliva. Calle O’ Reilly e/ Avenida del Calle 17 e/ 4 y 6. Vedado. Tel: 7 Puerto y Tacón. Habana Vieja. Galería Habana 830-6808. Sat. Feb. 25 (11 pm): Tel: 7 864-4490. Temporary hall: Línea e/ E y F. Vedado. Tel: Live performance by La Tierra Exhibition Footprints on the Through March 3: Abstract del Cover rock band. Sun. 26 Date: February 20 to 27 City by Ileana Mulet, dedicated painting exhibition El camino Calle Línea e/ A y B. Tel: 7 833- (5 pm): Eddie Escobar and his Place: Parque Metropolitano to the 497th anniversary of a casa (On the Way Home) by 5651. Thu. Feb. 23 (5 pm-7 pm): band. Sun. 26 (9 pm): Los Kent de la Habana (Havana´s founding of Havana. Enrique Báster. Charly Mucha Rima. rock band. Metropolitan Park) 10 CULTURE Cuban Dance Company’s U.K. Tour By MarthaSÁNCHEZ

Between February 14 and March 18 the The Der nueMerker (Ludwigsburg) Cuban Contemporary Dance Company critic Alexander Walther described how (DCC in Spanish) will undertake a tour audiences were obviously moved by the of 10 British cities at the invitation of the company’s poetic expression through English Dance Consortium. choreography. Cuba’s principal contemporary dance Walther also described the Matria company recently returned to Havana Etnocentraas work, in which the March following a critically acclaimed tour of is a key and fascinating element, as 15 cities in Germany, Switzerland and “electrifyingly choreographed”. Monaco to perform at the Gran Teatro Bonn’s General Anzeiger‘s review Alicia Alonso. graduated from the National Arts School, Scotland, received a standing ovation of Reversible described the dancers’ The Cuban company departed for are very talented, but added that their after each performance. movements as strong, acrobatic, sensual a tour of the United Kingdom, where, careers would also depend on knowledge, Critic Angela Reinhardt’s review in and charged with meaning. It also according to its director Miguel Iglesias, training and dedication. the Ludwigsburg Forum stated that mentioned that the choreography had the group will perform Reversible, by The director explained to The Havana the company stood out for its vibrant, facilitated a very personal body language the Belgian-Colombian choreographer Reporter that “a group becomes a sensuous and energetic dance and for that skillfully fused contemporary and Annabelle López Ochoa, The Listening company when its members attain a original movements that differ from those more traditional Cuban dance influences. Room, by Britian’s Theo Clinkard, and perfect degree of mutual understanding of other contemporary dance companies. The acclaimed performances in Matria Etnocentra, by George Céspedes and listen to each other bodies.” Bonn, Ludwigshafen, Karlsruhe, Germany and Monaco led to, amongst of Cuba. He added that the company had Ludwigsburg and Furth are some of the places others, an important invitation to perform Scheduled venues include experienced some difficulties at the end that the Cubans performed sell out shows. at Russia’s Bolshoi’s Festival on September Nottingham’s Royal Concert Hall, the of 2015 when 17 members left. Bernhard Hartmann wrote for Bonn’s 25th, the very day the DCC celebrates its Lowry Salford Quays, London’s Barbican However, the reviews from several General Anzeiger the “audience at a 58th anniversary. Center, the Canterbury Marlowe Theatre, German cities clearly established that jam-packed Bonn Opera house relished They have also been invited to dance the Welsh Millennium Centre in Cardiff the situation has now been resolved. performances that includes in its program at the New York City Centre in October. and Newcastle’s Royal Theatre. Their Bonn audience applauded for more successful pieces by international Both invitations demonstrate that the Iglesias agreed that the young than 10 minutes and the Tangos Cubanos choreographers, without compromising DCC ranks alongside the best contemporary DCC members, most of whom recently piece, choreographed by Billy Cowie from their Cuban roots.” dance companies in the world. Tomás Sánchez Paints the Human Psyche By AlejandroGÓMEZ

Cuban painter Tomás Sánchez’s home in the town of San old art students at the exhibition. It is wonderful for any Antonio de Escazú in San Jose, Costa Rica, is in reality artist to reach people from such different generations.” another of his acclaimed artistic creations. “It stirred a mix of emotions within me. It was He has painted it stroke by stroke, employing the somewhat strange because it opened exactly 30 years same technique that has made his large landscape after my first show at the Fine Arts Museum in 1985”. paintings famous. He does not hesitate when saying that his Cuban The surrounding lush vegetation of the hills of San identity is expressed through his work, because he is Jose and diverse views of the city are what define the essentially Cuban, but immediately clarifies that he impressive space which, in addition to a house, has considers his paintings to be primarily universal works evolved into a gallery and studio. of art. Like many a perfectionist genius, Tomás Sánchez The royal palm, ever present in my landscapes, has says that the home he supervised the construction, still become a hybrid that is not exclusive to my homeland. requires critical details for its conclusion. “The impressions of the Cuban landscapes that The objective is to turn this section of San Antonio define my paintings are very much enhanced by what I de Escazú into a foundation to conserve the 68-year-old have encountered right across Latin American. internationally renowned Cuban painter’s work. Brazilian tropical forests, Central American and Viewed broadly as one of Cuba´s most important southern Mexican influences can easily be detected living artists, Tomas is part of a prolific generation that within them. The staple palm is always accompanied.¨ includes the also renowned Zaida del Río, Roberto Tomas spoke during his Havana Reporter interview Fabelo, Nelson Domínguez and Pedro Pablo Oliva. The painter revealed to this journalist that “although about the refuse sites that have been a recurrent theme His work has contributed to the rescue of classic I have maintained a relationship with the prestigious in his work since 1980. values of landscape painting, whilst incorporating his gallery for 20 years, it´s been 12 since I last mounted a “I don’t now paint the landscapes and dumps futuristic visions. commercial exhibition of my paintings.” separately, but paint dumps where there are landscapes His fan base has increased by multiples of ten over “The past 12 years have been dedicated to and the other way around. I fuse the two.¨ the years and continues to expand unabated. experimental painting uninhibited by market pressures “My objective is to inspire people to firstly reflect Tomas conceded to an interview with The Havana and to the enlargement of my museum collection. I am about the potential for a state of harmony with nature Reporter at his Costa Rican residential refuge, where art reentering the world of commercial exhibitions this year”. and at the same time express the enormous conflicts we obviously takes precedence over creature comforts. His eyes lit up when asked about Havana’s 12th Biennial. all face. He reflected on his immediate plans and his He described it as amazing, adding “I had mounted a We must stop the contamination and destruction satisfaction at having exhibited his work at Havana’s photography exhibition at the Wifredo Lam Center one of our environment, which will ultimately lead to our 12th Biennial Art Showcase in 2015. year previously, that opened to about 1,000 people, but own demise. “After the Havana biennial, I took a sabbatical from the opening of the biennial exhibition brought some “The more the goods we consume, the more waste museum work to finish some pieces for exhibition at 4,500 people together.” we generate, so dumps are nothing more than a mirror New York’s Marlborough Gallery in May and November “It was very moving to see former professors of mine, image of today´s society state of mind, which we must this year”. some then over 90 years old, alongside 14 and 15 year somehow alter in order to preserve our human race”. PHOTO FEATURE 11

Havana’s Beautiful Central Railway Station By Roberto F. CAMPOS

With its long history and attractive architecture, the Havana Central Railway Station, currently under renovation, is renowned for its bright, colorful façade, large windows and ornate interior balconies. Built on the corner of Arsenal and Egido Streets and facing a cobblestoned plaza, the station stands on the site of a now demolished military arsenal. It replaced Havana’s first Villanueva train station, which was situated where the Capitol Building stands today. This is the principal train station in Cuba, the fifth country in the world to have a railroad service in 1837. It was built during the government of President José Miguel Gómez (1909-1913) and designed by U.S architect Kenneth McKenzie Murchison. The four-story building features two 38 meter-high towers on either side of its main entrance and it officially opened on November 30, 1912, as the Ferrocarriles Unidos de Cuba Company and the Havana Central Railroad’s center of operations. Made of reinforced concrete, the building is adorned with terracotta and tiles and a roofed platform stretches along the Atares inlet, one of the Havana Bay´s three canals. Declared a National Monument in 1983, the Central Railway Station is both Havana’s and Cuba’s most important train terminus. 12 POLITICS Argentineans Face Further Price Increases By MaylínVIDAL The cost of electricity, toll and private Buenos Aires on social networks, part healthcare services in rose of a series that includes oil prices, set in further in February, and there seems motion since the start of 2017. to be no end in sight such sustained Gabriel Solano, national leader of increases. the Worker’s Party and the Left Front Following the news of electricity explained that “if the 2016 rise of up to price hikes of between 60 to 148 percent of 600 percent is added to this of 148 in Buenos Aires and the surrounding percent, the sudden increases imposed areas, many Argentineans will feel the by the Edesur and Edenor companies impact on their private finances. over 15 months amount to 1,600 Energy Minister Juan José percent.” Aranguren announced that electricity Former Argentinean President rates will increase from 320 pesos Cristina Fernández said that “salaries in January to 400 pesos in February fall but electricity bills rise… a truly (about $30.00) per megabyte/hour and nationwide chain of price hikes in are likely to rise to 640 pesos in March electricity, private medical services –about $40.00. and tolls that hit family finances hard.” The possibility of a further Though the date has not been set increment for October next has not yet, Argentineans are also bracing been ruled out by the minister. themselves for a rise of up to 52 percent During the signing of an agreement in toll charges on Buenos Aires highways on the exploitation of nonconventional traversed by almost by 1.3 million. gas in Vaca Muerta oilfield, President Local media sources said that tolls Mauricio Macri stated that “this is the are likely to increase by up to 269.2 way to have energy and to facilitate percent for trucks and 120 percent growth… this rise brings us closer to for cars with preferential tariffs being the 47 percent cost of energy, having applied during rush hours. practically started a zero. It is a gradual Amid constant inflation and the process that involves taking one daily government price adjustments, the step after the other.” rising cost of living is making is Many Argentinean citizens have making life extremely hard for many reacted to this sudden price hike in Apimages PHOTO: in Argentina. ECONOMY 13 Refined Wax Production Recommences By María JuliaMAYORAL A plant for the production of refined wax – the Alaín Mejías, head of the plant, stated that the only of its type in Cuba – is once again operational production goal is 25 tons, primarily to supply in the eastern municipality of Majibacoa, following the National Scientific Research Centre (CNIC, in an investment program to rescue a facility closed Spanish), for use in the pharmaceutical and the for more than 20 years. biotechnological industries. Having cost in the region of 3.5 million pesos, “We have enough crude wax, our basic raw the restoration started in 2011, but faced long material, to last three or four years and if we delays finding spare parts needed to instill new sustain production efficiency levels, we will be life into the old equipment. able to meet our commitment to the sector,” According to maintenance team leader, Carlos he said. Leyva, most of the setbacks related to the repair of The official added that to date, wax refined in wax separation machines and the thermal surfaces the facility complies with quality standards. (insulating material) of the alcohol tanks. Although the CNIC is the plant’s principal client, He told The Havana Reporter that since the idea is to diversify into other derivatives – like continuous production had recommenced in oil and resin – that have multiple applications. January 2017, the plant is reaching projected Mejías added that the Las Tunas province stability and efficiency indicators, even though it based industry will guarantee its raw materials is still only operating at a 50% capacity. through the construction of a complimentary Leyva explained that the present production solid wax plant, which will use a sugarcane target of 130kg per day is being met without bagasse bi-product from cane sugar processing. difficulty and “with the machine working at 100%, The bagasse, he added, would be sourced from the we could reach the 300kg mark.” local Majibacoa sugarcane mill. Cuba and Slovakia Promote Bilateral Trade By: FranciscoMENÉNDEZ Cuba’s Chamber of Commerce (CCRC) and the Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO) have signed a multi-spherical memorandum of understanding in Havana to enhance bilateral trade prospects. The document facilitates a better mutual understanding of each other markets, exports and investments, of Commerce, Parizek and his delegation priorities, legal structures, technological were briefed on foreign investment achievements and finance mechanisms. opportunities in Cuba, the relevant Signed by CCRC President Orlando regulations that apply and other details Hernández and SARIO Project manager relating to bilateral trade agreements. Michal Polgar, the memorandum was The food, biotechnology and approved during a recent visit to Cuba tourism industries are the spheres of by the State Secretary of Slovakia’s most interest to the Slovakian business Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, community. Lukas Parízek. Slovakia joined the European Union During a visit to the Cuban Chamber in 2004 and the Eurozone in 2009. 14 ECONOMY

Multi Million Electrochemical Industry Investment By JuliaCRUZATA

The construction of an electrochemical is operational, it will stabilize domestic “All this requires close liaison between plant in Cuba, to satisfy public health, market supply, enhance energy efficiency various ministries and companies,” Moya sugarcane and oil industry demand, has and reduce the environment impact. Ruiz said. commenced following an investment of According to principal investor The director highlighted that when over 100 million pesos. Roberto Moya Ruiz, 50% of the work has the plant is ready, it will have the capacity Courtesy of trabajadores.cu PHOTO: The director of the project, Sergio Díaz been completed and in excess of 90% of to produce 21 tons of liquid chlorine, sources, including the placement of over Arredondo, told The Havana Reporter, that the metallic structures have already been 80 tons of caustic soda and sodium 2 thousand photovoltaic panels on the the chloric-soda plant, under construction installed. hypochlorite, 36 tons of hydrochloric acid, roof to supply energy to the plant and to in the Sagua la Grande municipality (Villa The assembly of new equipment and and 17,000 m3 of hydrogen per day. contribute to the National Grid. Clara province), is to be fitted out with other important works are also underway. The Sagua la Grande electrochemical Workers on the project talked to this state of the art technology. “We have made good progress over plant’s products will primarily be used newspaper about the demanding nature Arredondo explained that the factory, the past two years, despite difficulties for water purification, the cleaning of of their task. which will provide liquid chlorine, caustic that arose during to the complexity of the heat conducting and food industry Builder, Norland Crespo Linares said soda, sodium hypochlorite, hydrochloric investment,” the investor said. equipment, drilling, oil extraction and the “we work very hard here for about 12 acid and hydrogen, should be completed There are for example, more than 1,200 production of soaps and detergents. hours a day and once our shift finishes, this year. tons of metallic structures, over 20,000 Products will also be used for home another commences to ensure that no Experts view the plant as a major meters of pipes to be installed and 267 and industrial cleansing, in the hotel and time is lost”. step forward, given the replacement of pieces of equipment to be assembled. tourism sectors, in specialized soldering Machine operator, Lázaro Adalberto existing metallic mercury technology by a There are also earthworks, foundation and in the production of high-purity Pérez González, spoke about the more efficient electrolytic ionic exchange laying, drainage systems, electrical systems, metals and solid fats. solidarity among the workforce and the membrane process. warehousing and temporary facilities and Investors highlight the project’s shared ambition of finishing the work on He added that once the new factory services for the builders to be considered. exploitation of renewable energy schedule and to the required standard.” Pac-Graf Fair Attracts Foreign Companies By AdrianaORTIZ

From 2013 to 2016, internal production attract new clients for their easy-to-open international industry-specific renewable expanded following a 30 percent increase metallic covers. energy source, urban security systems, to $90 million in investment in the sector, During 2017, Fira Barcelona and tourist services and water management but that is still insufficient to satisfy strong Palco business group will organize other trade shows. domestic demand. Some 50 foreign companies participated in During the inauguration of the fair at the first edition of Pac-Graf from February PEBEXPO, Cuba´s Industry Minister, José 7 to 9, a landmark printing, packaging and Álvarez, stressed the country’s willingness graphic industry trade event at to modernize its industrial infrastructure Havana´s PABEXPO exhibition center, that in conjunction with foreign partners, able included a series of important business to contribute capital, technology and meetings and conferences. expertise. Producers and distributors of Álvarez highlighted opportunities for machinery, processing technologies foreign investors by explaining that even and packaging accessories from Spain, though recent investments have enhanced Germany, Colombia, the United States, the sector´s productive capacity, in 2015 France, Italy, Mexico, Panama, national production could barely meet 57 and Cuba were represented at the event percent of domestic demand. organized jointly by Spain’s Fira de Fira de Barcelona’s foreign trade Barcelona Company and Cuba´s Palco director, Ricardo Zapatero, said that the business group. Havana event had opened the Cuban Telecommunications, raw material and market to many foreign specialist printing firms also displayed their wares at container, packing, print and raw material the fair. companies. The presence of both the Cuban Expert Guilad Rubin of Panama´s Ruber Center for the Promotion of Foreign Trade International Company described as very and Investment (ProCuba) and Cuba´s fruitful his firm’s participation in the fair, Chamber of Commerce, lent considerable because it had facilitated direct contacts weight to the business talks. between professionals and potential According to ProCuba Director Roberto clients. Verrier, the container and packaging sector Fernando Tomassevich, another is of strategic importance for national representative of the Panamanian economic development and to respond company, told The Havana Reporter that to growing demand within the tourist, Rubber International has accumulated 20 biopharmaceutical and agri-food sectors years of positive experience in exporting in particular. digital printing equipment to Cuba. Juana Iris Herrera, an Industry Ministry “2016 closed with very good results official, said that Pac-graf had opened a numbers and we expect 2017 to also door to increased joint venture and import prove positive. substitution projects. We are however aware of the financial She explained that Cuba is currently country’s present financial problems” he added. spending up to $300 million annually to The Bemasa firm of Spain’s sales import containers and packaging accessories. director, Emilio Martínez, said he hoped to SPORTS 15 The República de la Concha Regatta By AlejandroMARTÍNEZ

Having been bid a symbolic “bon voyage” Sean Bon, who bid the vessels a final that the event would have served as a only 28 members from 10 countries. by the U .S. Embassy in Cuba, a flotilla of farewell. preparation for the February 28 to March Today, there are over 2,880 members more than 20 yachts competing in the The Copa República de la Concha 6 San Petersburg-Havana regatta, in from 73 countries. final stage of the Copa República de la Regatta departed Key West on January which more than 90 boats and some 400 He explained that this year’s program Concha Regatta, set sail for Key West from 23rd and was the first in a series of nautical yachtsmen will participate. includes 18 nautical events involving Havana’s Morro Castle. events to mark the 25th anniversary of The triangular race – as the República over 500 boats and about 2 thousand On February 2nd, the boats sailed past the Hemingway International Yacht Club. de la Concha Regatta is also now known – people from the United States. by the US diplomatic headquarters close These events will finish on May 21st, was first held 20 years ago, in 1997. Initially Its primary purpose is to further to Havana’s Malecón, before starting on the date of the Club’s foundation in 1992. it was simply a Key West-Varadero circuit, reinforce friendly relations between the the third and final phase of the regatta The first phase of the voyage with the Havana stage included in 1999. two nations. which connects the Cuban capital to the extended from Key West to the beach Problems caused by various US Escrich also said that for the first time aforementioned Floridian metropolis. resort of Varadero and the second sailed administrations resulted in a decade of in the last 58 years, the Club will this year The local Micara, Club Náutico and from there to Havana. inactivity and only nine editions have be represented by a Cuban yacht in the Daiquirí yachts from Cuba’s Hemingway There, adverse weather conditions been held in the capital to date. May 18-25th Tampa-Havana Regatta. International Yacht Club joined the forced the cancelation of what was to Commodore Escrich said in this He concluded his interview by participating vessels as they sailed past have been the first edition of the Torreón 25th anniversary year of the Club, that revealing that the Rochelle Club, from the Malecon, led by Commodore José de La Chorrera Regatta. membership had increased considerably France, is planning to hold a10 days cross- Miguel Díaz Escrich on on board the C Escrich told The Havana Reporter since May 21st, 1992, when there were Atlantic ocean regatta in 2018. Puerto Rico Claims Caribbean Baseball Crown By YasielCANCIO

Outstanding pitching and a perfect field sacrificial fly to send Rivera home way that everybody was very focused on Martí, who will manage Cuba’s IV World sacrificial fly by Jonathan Morales, to a 17 year long awaited victory. winning the trophy. Baseball Classic team in March concluded ensured a 1-0 victory over the Águilas de The deafening noise that had Star outfielder Alfredo Despaigne the interview by saying, “we’re not pleased Mexicali and Caribbean Baseball Series prevailed in the Culiacán ballpark had said that the team had “felt no pressure because our objective was to win, but this glory for Puerto Rico’s Criollos de Caguas. been silenced and only Puerto Ricans, beyond what everyone feels during has been a positive experience and I have It took the Puerto Ricans 10 innings celebrating in the center of the modern any game.” no reason at all to criticize any player.” to exorcize the demon had that kept ballpark, were to be heard. them off the tournament’s podium since Criollos de Caguas, who had faced 2000, when Cangrejeros de Santurce elimination early in the tournament took the title. had surprised the baseball world by There was an amazing, joyful and defeating in their semi-final expectation charged atmosphere and Mexico in the final. surrounding the final. Thousands of sports fans both CUBA’S PROUD CARIBBEAN SERIES inside and outside the Culiacán stadium PERFORMANCE confidently awaited an Aztec triumph with only a few – mostly journalists – Although Cuba was eliminated from the giving the Puerto any chance. Caribbean Series following a 0-1 defeat The game was a genuine jewel, by Mexico in their semi-final, there was impeccable in every sense. widespread agreement that the Alazanes It was a true pitching duel between de Granma had done their homeland the Mexicans and the Caguas, who proud in the tournament. had come back from the abyss of three Frank Camilo Morejón, the Cuban consecutive defeats in earlier stages. team’s catcher, told The Havana Reporter’s Opening pitchers Adalberto Flores, sports correspondent that “although we for Puerto Rico, and Héctor Velázquez, lost, we are pleased with we consider for Mexico kept clean slates throughout to have been a good performance. the regulation 9 innings, with the Puerto Our debt to the fans was huge and we Rican pitcher denying either a hit or a came to win the championship, but that run to the Mexicans until the 6th when, proved impossible.” with one out, Jorge Carrillo hit a single to The Cubans said goodbye to the the left field. Caribbean tournament with their heads When the game went to extra innings, held high. Before losing in the semi-final, tensions increased considerably. Cuba had defeated Licey(4-0), Caguas Mexico was trying for a 10th (6-1) and Mexicali (4-0) in the qualifiers, tournament title, with Puerto Rico only losing to Zulia (3-8). aspiring to a 15th. Their pitching was exceptional and Everything had conspired to ensure a their defense outstanding throughout, dramatic end to the game. only the batters that did not shine as The Criollos opened the inning with brightly as they might have done. a double by Yadier Rivera and Jesmuel Many people thought that the Valentín hit a sacrifice to bring the Cuban team would be the tournament’s runner to third base. general dogs body because of a poor US player, Jake Sánchez, the Mexican performance of Tigres de Ciego de Ávila Pacific League’s best relief pitcher was in 2016. on the mound when, to loud roars from However, manager Carlos Martí had the stands, Jonathan Morales hit a center discretely organized his troops in such a 16

Addiction Treatment and Rehabilitation Program

Backed up by over two decades of experience, this program is based on the so-called “therapeutic community” approach, since when patients spend some time in a group cohabitation regimen, they tend to share their state of mind, feelings and situations. It’s all about rechanneling the system of individual, family and social responsibilities in an effort to reach two goals: abstinence and lifestyle change.

www.smcsalud.cu