CN 2013 CALENDAR JOURNAL.Indd

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A : L C S, CU. P: R F, A A, C F, E: T A. S, A R, S R. B C: L S-S 3 comité noviembre th mes deMESSAGE la herenciaON BEHALF OF COMITÉ puertorriqueña NOVIEMBRE For 27 years, Comité Noviembre, (CN), has celebrated Puerto Rican Heritage Month in this country. CN is a volunteer, non-profi t 27organization dedicated to commemorating Anniversary and acknowledging the contributions Puerto Ricans have made to this city, state and nation. CN is composed of fourteen of the oldest and most prestigious Puerto Rican organizations: Institute for the Puerto Rican/ Hispanic Elderly, ASPIRA of New York, Centro de Estudios Puertorriqueños, El Museo del Barrio, El Puente, Eugenio María de Hostos Community College/CUNY, La Casa de la Herencia Cultural Puertorriqueña, Inc. La Fundación Nacional para la Cultura Popular, LatinoJustice: PRLDEF, Música de Cámara, National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights – Justice Committee, National Institute for Latino Policy and Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration. CN is proud to announce that the National Conference of Puerto Rican Women has become a member. This coordinating body plans and promotes CN’s annual programs and events. The charge of CN is to create awareness of our rich culture, language, and heritage; and to acknowledge and take ownership of it everyday but especially during the month of November. Each year, CN’s annual theme is developed with the understanding that beyond celebrating our heritage, it must help to motivate, mobilize and empower our community around critical concerns. Our 2013 theme: “Preservando el legado de la Díaspora Puertorriqueña…La responsabilidad es nuestra…Preserving the living legacy of the Puerto Rican Diaspora...The time is now, the responsibility is ours!” celebrates the legacy of the Puerto Ricans who came before us and struggled against many obstacles to build organizations, empower our community and achieve the necessary changes, so that today Puerto Ricans and other Latinos benefi t from their commitment, dedication and perseverance. As a community, we must never forget their achievements and we must pay homage to their legacy. This year’s artist, Ray Rosario, is a humanitarian New Age artist who donates his work and talents to many critical causes in our society from children with cancer, homeless and battered women shelters, breast cancer survivors and people living with AIDS, to building a Village in Tanzania, Africa. Our relationship with Ray started in 2003 when he was commissioned to produce an artistic interpretation of our theme. To date, this collaboration has produced four incredible works of art for CN 2003, 2004, 2006, and 2013. In keeping with his commitment to education and community Ray is donating his honorarium to CN to be used as a $1,000 scholarship to a college art major. CN selected as its 2013 Spokesperson, Marybeth Melendez. She is a College of Staten Island (CSI) student development assistant and graduate student, a mother of three and an incredible singer. However, what most people may not know is that Marybeth is blind. Her condition, however, has not stopped her from achieving her dreams or helping others. In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, Marybeth and several of her classmates, after learning that people were not able to get a hot meal after losing their homes to Hur- ricane Sandy, whipped up hot meals and set up a distribution center on the street. They distributed food, water and clothing. Their actions prompted the Coast Guard and the FDNY to designate New Dorp as a central receiving and distribution location. This journal also carries interesting, cultural, political and educational information that we hope will be of interest to you. We pride ourselves in being able to discuss all aspects and issues of our community – with respect and objectivity. I am proud that we have a piece on the 100th Anniversary of El Diario La Prensa by Stacey Cabezas, EDLP, A Call to Action Campaign spearheaded by the National Puerto Rican Coalition to lobby Congress to award the Congressional Medal of Honor to the 65th Infantry Regiment/The Borinqueneers, as well as the collaborative partnership CN is forming with Agenda Ciudadana. Most importantly, we want to share with you the inspiring stories of our Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad award recipients – truly exceptional, dedicated individuals who are the unsung heroes of our community and who are making a difference in not only the Puerto Rican community but society as a whole. The Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad award honors Puerto Ricans whose pride in their heritage and strength of character have empowered themselves, and inspired others to make signifi cant impact on our community. CN chose nine incredible people from nominations that were submitted by YOU, the community. For the past twenty-seven years, CN has created and developed programs all geared to the support and enhancement of educational opportunities and leadership development for Puerto Rican and Hispanic youth with a cultural twist. These programs are fi rmly rooted in the belief that, in order to succeed in life, you must pursue a higher education, give back to your community through volunteer efforts and know your cultural roots. Our success story covers 208 scholars awarded since the CN Scholarship program was instituted in 1996, and an additional 14 scholars awarded the Richie Pérez Scholarship for Peace and Justice, since its inception in 2006. This year’s benefi t event will take place on Friday, November 15 2013, at the NY Hilton in Manhattan and will honor: Giselle Blondet, Actress/Host & Humanitarian, Univisión; Luis Alberto Ferre Rangel, Editor in Chief / Grupo Ferre Rangel Media, Board Chair / Agenda Ciudadana; Jason Nieves, Writer, Producer, The Nieves Company, Luis D. Ortiz, Million Dollar Listing, Douglas Elliman Real Estate; Allan Villafaña, News Anchor, Noticiero/Primera Edición, Telemundo/NBC and Marybeth Melendez. The proceeds of this annual event supports all of our programs, and allows CN to provide free programming and information to the community yearround as well as scholarship dollars.

4 Photo: Ana Alicea Comité Noviembre Board Members and 2012 Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad Award Recipients

In 2013, CN developed the following new annual programs by partnering with several organizations: In 2013 CN Poster Exhibit, (“Boricua Imprint”) was exhibited at Taller Boricua in East Harlem, NY and is currently showing at Terrance Cardinal Cooke Health Center – Auditorium until the end of December. An educational booklet was developed for both on the historical overview of CN’s themes and artistic interpretation with bios of the artists commissioned over the years. In May 2013, CN ofﬁ cially donated its organizational documents to the Centro Library Archives as part of the 100 Puerto Ricans Campaign; the National Conference of Puerto Rican Women has become a member of CN and partnering with Agenda Cuidadana and Asociación de Fotoperiodistas de Puerto Rico on several projects. Additionally, artist Pedro Brull donated a piece of art entitled “Un Jibaro en la Ciudad” valued at $40,000 for CN to auction. Many events have been planned throughout New York State as well as the tri-state area and Puerto Rico to celebrate our rich culture, traditions and history. CN urges everyone to participate in these events, including our 8th Annual Artisans Fair and the Second Annual Puerto Rican Authors Book Expo that will take place on Saturday, November 23, 2013, from 11AM – 9PM at Hostos Com- munity College in the Bronx. The day will end with a concert by Gíbaro de PR. The 19th annual Day of Community Service and Social Responsibility will take place on Sunday, November 24, 2013 from 11AM – 2PM in several locations throughout the City. On this day CN along with young people from ASPIRA of New York, Inc., El Puente and Big Brothers Big Sisters Latino Bigs will be distributing the non-perishable food they collected during several food drives that were conducted simultaneously throughout October, to create Thanksgiving baskets for the poor of New York. Each and every one of us has to remember that preserving, protecting, promoting and archiving our history is our responsibility. We have to stand proud and teach our children our history. We have to support our own organizations in its mission to preserve the history, victories, accomplishments, struggles of the Puerto Rican Diaspora. If we as Puerto Ricans don’t take ownership of telling our story, no one else will. It is up to us. The time is now. The Responsibility is ours!

For Comité Noviembre Teresa A. Santiago, Chairperson

MEMBER AGENCIES Institute for the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Elderly ASPIRA of New York Centro de Estudios Puertorriqueños El Museo del Barrio El Puente Eugenio María de Hostos Community College/CUNY La Casa de la Herencia Cultural Puertorriqueña, Inc. La Fundación Nacional para la Cultura Popular LatinoJustice: PRLDEF Música de Cámara National Conference of Puerto Rican Woman – NY Chapter National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights – Justice Committee National Institute for Latino Policy Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 SPOKESPERSON AND HONOREE

Marybeth Melendez is a woman of many accomplishments and talents. Marybeth She is a College of Staten Island (CSI) student development assistant and graduate student, a mother of three and, an incredible singer. However, what most people may not have known is that Melendez is an individual Melendez who is blind.

Melendez suffers from retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative ge- netic disorder which caused her to begin to lose her vision at a young age. Yet, that did not hinder her academic and personal dreams. She applied to the College of Staten Island, earned an Associate’s and a dual Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology and is now pursuing graduate coursework.

Marybeth’s condition compelled her to retire from a promising career in a law ﬁ rm. But that has not stopped her. She and her seeing-eye dog Trixie have served as volunteers for three years with El Centro del Inmigrante in Staten Island, by working in their soup kitchen and distributing food and supplies to home- bound immigrants in Staten Island. In March 2013 Mayor Mi- chael Bloomberg presented her with the Rising Star award for her work with the immigrant community of Staten Island.

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, spearheaded by Marybeth, she and several classmates took it upon themselves to help the devastated community around them. Melendez began cooking hot food after learning that people were not able to get a hot meal, after losing their homes in Hurricane Sandy. She and her friends whipped up some hot meals and set up a distribution center on the street. They distributed food, water and clothing. Their actions prompted the Coast Guard and the FDNY to designate New Dorp as a central receiving and distribution location.

Covering Hurricane Sandy for CNN, Anderson Cooper, anchor of Anderson Cooper 360°, spotted Melendez distributing food, water and other necessities to survivors of Sandy. She looked as normal as can be except for Trixie at her feet. He invited Marybeth to his show where she told him that she grew up with Puerto Rican parents who always gave back to the community, and felt it was important to do the same. Marybeth was able to help hundreds of Hurricane Sandy victims.

14 for the 59th Annual Emmy Awards. Ray collaborated with About the Artist Susan G. Komen in 2008. He created a painting at the NYC Race for Cure event with the participants’ hand prints that was auctioned off to raise funds for breast cancer. In late 2008, he put a team of specialists together to work on an on- RAY ROSARIO going project to build a Village in Tanzania (Africa) to help his friend, Father Stephen Mosha, who resides in Tanzania. The project was adopted by the United Nations in February of 2009, and is currently being ﬁ lmed for a documentary. With over 13 years as an established artist, Ray Rosario’s They have acquired 10 acres of land and projection of con- vision and artistic style have gained notable attention from struction began in 2012. NY 1 News interviewed him about artists, critics, humanitarians and various organizations. the project in 2009. In 2011 he was asked to participate in a After attending Pratt Institute, Ray Rosario began design- nationwide public service announcement to speak on behalf ing hand-crafted wall covering for Archetonic, Inc. Within of battered women who have become homeless. In August ﬁ ve years, he received several promotions resulting in the management of the company, including the Manhattan showroom located at the Design Center. In 1996, Ray left Archetonic to merge his creative talents into life-awaken- ing artwork that embodied his philosophy. Two years later, he began producing work. During this period, he volunteered at Brooklyn Hospital teaching children undergoing chemotherapy, and raising funds for the hospital by selling his artwork. From 1998 to 2000, Ray spent his summers as an art teacher and program director for the summer camps (Camp Sebago & Camp Hitman) that enrolled inner city children from community centers and orphanages.

Ray began exhibiting his artwork for the fi rst time in June 2000. His work was received with great enthusiasm at an exhibition held in NYC and many exhibits followed thereafter at various corporations, private galleries and colleges. In 2002, Ray gained further recognition with a Barnes & Noble Booksellers year-long tour in which his artwork was exhibited in various Barnes & Noble stores. It was during this time that Ray was invited to participate in a nationally broadcast interview on Univision’s channel 41 “Despierta America” discussing his movement for humanity. In 2003, he was invited to lecture at Rutgers University about the cultural effects of a modern-day artist. As Ray enjoys working with young people, he gladly collaborated with Barnes & Noble on a children’s art project at the Westchester, New York, location that was ongoing throughout late 2003. 2011 he fi lmed a TV pilot as part of the “NIMBY Project” to make over the women’s shelters with inspirational and Ray has been donating his art to raise funds for children uplifting murals, to assist in the healing progress. and human rights organizations such as Heart Share, Path Ways for Youth, Gay Men Association for Blacks, The Ora- In 2012, Ray partnered with a fi lm production company tory Church of St. Bonfi re in Brooklyn for the children in and started the non-for-profi t organization “Revitalizing the Africa, St. Peters Church in Yonkers for the children in An- ARTS for Youth” to assist high school seniors with scholar- gola, Africa, and for The Hispanic Journalism Association, ships, as well as developing community outreach programs which auctioned off his artwork at Sotheby’s in 2003. He for children of all ages. collaborated with Queens Hospital Center to exhibit and sold his artwork to raise funds for the Katrina hurricane Comité Noviembre’s relationship with Ray started in 2003 victims. when he was commissioned to produce an artistic interpretation of its theme to celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage In 2007, Ray was commissioned to create a painting that Month. To date this collaboration has produced four incred- depicted his interpretation of the Black Madonna for an ible works of art for CN (2003, 2004, 2006, and 2013). In opening at The National Museum of Catholic Art and His- keeping with his commitment to education and community tory. The painting toured other museums around the coun- Ray is donating his honorarium to Comité Noviembre to be try for a year. A few months later The New York Chapter of used as a $1,000 scholarship award for a college art major. the Emmys invited Ray to be one of the judges on the panel 15 About the 2013 Poster

The image depicts two children, a male and female reading a book. The fl ag on the book symbolizes Puerto Rican culture and history. The faces of the children are shining in the glow of light, and their expressions show interest, even awe, at what they are eagerly reading. This light expresses enlightenment, learning and knowledge. The images and fi gures, almost in a dream state fl oating above their heads, represent the important history that they are learning about the Puerto Rican Diaspora. The struggles and accomplishments that the Puerto Rican community has fought for, so that today future generations and other Hispanics have a right of passage. Struggles, Issues and Victories presented on the poster are: 1. The ASPIRA Consent Decree (ASPIRA/PRLDEF) 2. Young Lords 3. Struggle to keep open admissions, Puerto Rican Studies Departments 4. Struggle to Keep Eugenio Maria de Hostos Com- munity College Open I urge you to research these events and the people who 5. Voting Rights Act Amendments of 1975 made them possible. This is our history, our legacy, our responsibility to preserve it. We must celebrate the leg- 6. El Diario la Prensa founded 1913 acy of Puerto Ricans who came before us and struggled against many obstacles to build organizations, empow- 7. Establishment of Spanish Language media er our community and achieve the necessary changes of 8. Latino Representation on the NYC Board of Edu- their time so that today Puerto Ricans and other Latinos cation benefi t from their commitment, dedication and perseverance. As a community we must never forget their 9. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor achievements and we must pay homage to their legacy.

16 2013 poster study guide

ASPIRA Consent Decree (ASPIRA/PRLDEF): This landmark lished to serve the city’s working class more than a century before, case for educational equity took place in NYC in 1972. It centered was reneging on its mission. Their struggle was to transform the on a suit against the NYC Board of Education, the largest BOE in institution in three critical areas that would benefi t both CUNY the nation by the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund and the city. on behalf of 15 school children, their parents, ASPIRA of New 1. Open Admissions (i.e., a guaranteed placement in the CUNY York, Inc. and ASPIRA of America, Inc. Evidence that over 80,000 system for every NYC public high school graduate who want- language minority children were denied equal educational oppor- ed a college education) tunity resulted in the ASPIRA Consent Decree 1974, mandating 2. Academic and counseling support for low income students, to bilingual education for all who needed it. help make their dream of a college education a reality Young Lords: In the midst of the African-American liberation 3. Black and Puerto Rican studies departments, to provide ex- struggle, protests to end the Vietnam War and the women’s move- cellent curricula and teaching in the humanities and social ment for equality, Puerto Rican and Latino communities fought sciences, as they pertained to the African and Puerto Rican for economic, racial and social justice. From Chicago streets to the diasporic communities barrios of New York City and other urban centers, the Young Lords In the spring of 1969, widespread support for a student strike emerged to demand decent living conditions and raised a militant forced Hunter College to close down before the semester’s end, voice for the empowerment of Puerto Ricans and other Latino/as and in the fall of 1969 the Department of Black and Puerto Rican in the United States and for the independence of Puerto Rico. Studies was established, along with the Academic Skills (SEEK) Struggle to keep Eugenio Maria de Hostos Community College remediation program. From these beginnings we inherited an im- Open - Hostos Community College was created by an act of the portant legacy and a unique mandate. Our legacy is defi ned by the Board of Higher Education on April 22, 1968, in response to the struggle against exclusion in the academy and the nation. The de- demands of Puerto Rican and other Hispanic leaders who urged the partment’s combined focus on Africana and Puerto Rican/Latino establishment of a college to meet the needs of the South Bronx. In studies is unique in the nation. This focus underscores a commit- September 1970, Hostos admitted a charter class of 623 students ment to the mandate to help transform the curriculum and objec- at the site of a former tire factory at 475 Grand Concourse. Enroll- tives of higher education by developing a new discipline that in- ment grew rapidly to more than 2,000 students by June of 1974. corporates the perspective of the excluded “other”, and by forging In addition, the State Legislature acted to ease an increasing space links between the College and the communities we study. Excerpts shortage, by passing a special bill to acquire the “500 Building” from http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/afprl/about-us The Department across the Grand Concourse from the original site. In the same of Africana and Puerto Rican/Latino Studies - History, Mission, year, Hostos was granted full and unconditional accreditation fol- and Philosophy lowing a highly favorable evaluation by the Middle States Asso- Representation on the Board of Education: In the mid-1980s, ciation. The fi scal crisis of the mid-1970’s resulted in an effort to Puerto Rican/Latino students composed 34% of the NYC Public merge Hostos with another institution as a cost-saving measure. School system with no Latino Representation on the Board of Edu- This effort was rebuffed by strong college and community oppo- cation, after Mayor Ed Koch removed Miguel O. Martinez. Mar- sition, which led the State Legislature to include a guarantee of tinez who was appointed by Mayor Koch in 1978 served on the Hostos’ existence in the Landes Higher Education Act, passed on Board for eight years. After massive community protests, Mayor June, 1976. Koch named Amalia V. Betanzos, a former city commissioner, to Voting Rights Act 1975 Amendments: The 1975 amendments the Board of Education fulfi lling a pledge to the Hispanic com- expanded voting rights for groups that traditionally fell outside munity. the Voting Rights Act’s protection. Civil rights organizations rep- Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor - Sonia Sotomayor made resenting Hispanic, Asian American, Native Alaskan, and Native history on August 6, 2009 when the United States Senate con- American interests argued before Congress that such groups often fi rmed her nomination as the nation’s fi rst Latina Supreme Court were the victims of discriminatory voting practices, particularly in Justice. She is the court’s 111th Justice and only the third woman areas where English was not the dominant language. After Con- to serve on the high court. Sotomayor has often publicly attrib- gress heard testimony of language discrimination in voting, the uted much of her success in life with her upbringing in a close- Voting Rights Act was successfully amended to protect language knit Puerto Rican family, and she has been a source of great pride minorities. Specifi cally, Congress amended the defi nition of “test for members of the Puerto Rican community across the mainland or device” to prohibit laws requiring ballots and voting informa- United States and on the island. tion be provided exclusively in English in jurisdictions where a Establishment of Spanish Language media, WKAQ-TV single-language minority group comprised more than fi ve percent launched the Telemundo brand on March 28, 1954. The station of the voting-age population. Congress also required that in juris- was founded by Ángel Ramos, owner of El Mundo, Puerto Rico’s dictions that satisfi ed this criteria, election offi cials must provide main newspaper at the time, and of Puerto Rico’s fi rst radio sta- ballots and voting information in the language of the applicable tion, WKAQ, also known as “Radio El Mundo”. language minority group. Founded in 1913, El Diario/La Prensa is the longest publishing CUNY Student Takeover: An appreciation of the activist spirit Spanish-language daily newspaper in the US. Since its inception, of the 1960s and 1970s to social justice issues is essential to an as a small publication in Lower Manhattan named La Prensa, the understanding of the philosophy, objectives and mission of the newspaper has grown into one of the largest and most infl uential Department of Africana and Puerto Rican/Latino Studies at Hunt- Latino media outlets in the nation. In 1963, it merged with El Dia- er College. In New York City in 1968-69, coalitions of African rio de Nueva York, forming El Diario/La Prensa. The newspaper Americans, Puerto Ricans, and many others throughout CUNY, is now a state-of-the-art multimedia operation that includes print, petitioned, picketed, sat-in, and took over campuses to make the digital and other platforms. El Diario/La Prensa has won numerous public aware of the fact that the University, which had been estab- awards for its celebrated investigative and community journalism.

17 Comite Noviembre Traveling Poster Exhibit

In 2011 to commemorate CN’s, 25th anniversary an exhibit highlighting the artistic renditions of our theme over the past 25 years was curated. CN is proud that the exhibition has become an annual event adding our current poster to the collection. In September 2012 the Exhibit was shown at Riverbank State Park – Cultural Complex/NYS Ofﬁ ce of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in NYC and ran until the end of November 2012. In June 2013, Taller Boricua at the Julia de Burgos Cultural Center in Manhattan, carried the exhibit to great reviews; and it is currently showing at The Terrance Cardinal Cooke Health Center in NYC until the end of December. The Exhibit is scheduled to show in several locations in the Bronx and at the headquarters of 1199 SEIU in 2014. Through the years CN has identiﬁ ed a theme highlighting an issue of relevance to the Puerto Rican community. Through these themes, CN has promoted the celebration of Puerto Rican culture and the achievements of the Puerto Rican community while also raising consciousness about the issues affecting our community. Each of the artists, as the creative energy and catalyst behind CN, have enabled us to complete our goal of motivating and mobilizing individuals and community action in addressing these issues and telling our story. A program booklet was developed with the most current bios of the artists available, as well as the description of the poster at the time by the artist who created it, the relevant issue that was occurring in the community and a small rendition of the poster. This program booklet is available on our website: www.comitenoviembre.org. CN is proud of the collaboration it has forged with an amazing group of talented artists throughout 27 years. These men and women are truly exceptional, not only with their creative talents and with their teaching, preserving, promoting and keeping our Puerto Rican culture and history alive, but also with the charitable, volunteer and pro bono work that each does to assist the poor, children with cancer and AIDS, breast cancer efforts, and the homeless. Comité Noviembre Artists 1987 -2012 are Nestor Otero, 1987, 1988, 1990 ▪ Luis Cordero, 1989 ▪ Ernesto Ramos Nieves, 1991, 1992, (deceased) ▪ Angel Rodriguez-Diaz, 1993 ▪ Maria Dominguez, 1994, 1997 ▪ Juan Sanchez, 1995, 2012 ▪ Daniel Del Valle, 1996, 1998 ▪ David Santiago, 1999 ▪ Joaquin Emir Dávila Matos 2000, 2002 ▪ Adrienne Assaff Montalvo, 2001 ▪ Ray Rosario, 2003, 2004, 2006 ▪ Carlos Aponte, 2005 ▪ Maestro Antonio Martorell, 2007 ▪ Aquliar Marrero, 2008 ▪ Arnaldo Alicea Concepción, 2009 ▪ Pedro Brull, 2010, Wilda Gonzalez, 2011 and, once again, Ray Rosario, 2013.

Thematic Impact on Community 1987 – 2012 1987 “Building on Our Heritage to Create the Future…Our Children Our Youth – Desarrollando Nuestra Herencia Creando Nuestro Futuro…Nuestros Niños y Juventud” 1988 “Empowerment…From the Shadows to the Light–De las Sombras al Poder – Empoderamiento…De las Sombras al Poder” 1989 “Si No Nos Cuentan…No Contamos…Count On Us! – Si No Nos Cuentan…No Contamos…Cuenten Con Nosotros” 1990 “From the Homeland to the Mainland…Los Lasos que nos Unen” 1991 “La Mujer Puertorriqueña La Verdadera Borinqueña…Asumiendo Nuestra Historia Tomando Liderazgo en los 90” 1992 “Encounters of the Past Our Determination to Shape the Future/Encuentros del PasadoNuestra Determinación Para Forjar el Futuro” 1993 “Reconquista ’93: Affi rming Our Identity…Preserving Our Community Reconquista ’93: Afi rmando Nuestra Identidad…Preservando nuestra comunidad” 1994 “Nuestro Poder Puertorriqueño: Usalo! Defi ne Nuestro Destino! 1995 “The Puerto Rican Renaissance: The Spirit of Commitment…The Power of Action. Live It!” 1996 “United, Moving Forward…The Future is Ours...Unidos, Adalante…El Futuro Esta en Nuestras Manos” 1997 “In the Mix: Voices that Affi rm Our Vibrant Heritage –Voces Que Afi rman Nuestra Herencia Dinámica” 1998 “Puerto Ricans Confronting the Challenges of a Changing World Puertorriqueños Enfrentando los Retos de un Mundo cambiante” 1999 “Puerto Ricans for a New Millennium ... Facing the Dawn of a New Age Puertorriqueños para un Nuevo Milenio... Frente al Amanecer de Una Nueva Era” 2000 “Understanding Our Past…Defi ning Our Future - Entendiendo Nuestro Pasado… Creamos Nuestro Futuro” 2001 “Puerto Ricans United for World Peace...Puertorriqueños Unidos Para la Paz Mundial” 2002 “Salud Boricua” 2003 “Nuestra Herencia Cultural el Camino al futuro…Our cultural heritage, the path to the future” 2004 “Preserving our Legacy…Cultural Affi rmation, Community Empowerment & Social Justice” 2005 “Boricua! Atesora lo tuyo…Boricua! Treasure what is yours. Preservando Nuestro Legado…Afi rmación Cultural, Poder Comunitario y Justicia Social” 2006 “Celebrando con Orgullo Nuestra Cultura...Hoy, Mañana y Siempre” 2007 “Encuentro Con Nuestra Patria,” 2008 “Vive tu cultura...!Vive Boricua¡ “Live Your Culture...! Vive Boricua!” 2009 “Puertorriqueño…De nuestras raíces nace un pueblo” 2010 “Puertorriqueño de alma, vida y corazón” 2011 “Comité Noviembre 25 years:.United by our Puerto Rican pride/Comité Noviembre 25 año/Unidos por nuestro orgullo Boricua” 2012 “Pioneros Puertorriqueños: un legado de amor, poder, y valor/Puerto Ricans Pioneers: a legacy of love, empowerment & courage” 2013 “Preservando el legado de la Díaspora Puertorriqueña…La responsabilidad es nuestra…Preserving the living legacy of the Puerto Rican Diaspora...The time is now, the responsibility is ours!”

Please contact Teresa A. Santiago, (914) 263-6599/[email protected] if you would like to host the Poster Exhibit 18 comité noviembre th 27mes de la Anniversaryherencia puertorriqueña MISSION CN’s mission is to commemorate and acknowledge all aspects of Puerto Rican life from the social and cultural to the educational, economic and political. The charge of CN is to create awareness of and preserve our rich culture, language, and heritage, especially for our youth – to recognize and take ownership of it everyday, but speciﬁ cally during the month of November.

For twenty-seven years, CN has created and developed programs all geared to the support and enhancement of educational opportunities and leadership development for Puerto Rican/Hispanic youth with a cultural twist. These programs are ﬁ rmly rooted in the belief that, in order to succeed in life, you must pursue a higher education, give back to your community through volunteer efforts and know your cultural ancestral history. CN ANNUAL PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Educational/Youth Leadership Development Música de Cámara/ Archdiocese of San Juan, PR 1. Two Scholarship Programs 3. Manhattan Neighborhood Network & CN’s • CN Scholarship Awards Program “Buscando Nuestras Raíces,” monthly one-hour • The Richie Perez Scholarship for Peace & cable television show Justice 4. Three Kings celebration & Toy Drive 2. Annual Leadership Development – Role Models 5. Website programs and information Forum with 6. Cultural and health related workshops, forums • NASA and events. • Big Brothers Big Sisters, Latino Bigs Annual Puerto Rican Heritage Month Celebration Puerto Rican Artist Development 1. Commemorative calendar journal 1. Artisans Fair & Exhibit 2. Annual Artist competition 2. Puerto Rican Institute for the Development of the 3. Commemorative poster Arts, P.R.I.D.A. 4. Selection of a spokesperson 3. Puerto Rican Authors Book Expo 5. Annual Awards Events: 4. Poster Traveling Exhibit • Puerto Rican Heritage Month kick-off Archival Initiatives with Centro Library Archives, CUNY celebration/Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad Cultural Development Award 1. Educational trip to Puerto Rico, “Buscando • Annual beneﬁ t event/Puerto Rican Heritage Nuestra Raíces” Award 2. Annual Classical Music Concert Series – CN/

CN SCHOLARSHIP AWARD PROGRAMS In order to secure better educational opportunities for our youth, the CN Scholarship Awards Program (CNSAP) was established and has awarded $208,000 in scholarships since its inception fourteen years ago, an average of 12 scholarships a year with a college graduation rate of 90%. An additional $14,000 has been awarded by the Richie Pérez Scholarship for Peace and Justice. Each year, the members of the CN Scholarship selection committee are awed by the clear sense of self and strength of character of these selﬂ ess and inspiring young people who are building our communities and making a difference early on in their lives. COMITÉ NOVIEMBRE SCHOLARSHIP In November of 1996, in celebration of its tenth anniversary of Puerto Rican Heritage Month, the CN Scholarship Awards Program (CNSAP) was established. To date, CNSAP has awarded 201 scholarships of $1,000. Seven years ago, to commemorate our 20th anniversary, CN enhanced the Scholarship Program to continue to award the top two scholars $1,000 scholarships each year until graduation. These scholars must maintain a 3.5 grade point average and documented community work in the Puerto Rican community, to continue to receive the 4-year $1,000 scholarship.

19 Comité Noviembre Mission and Programs (continued) THE RICHIE PEREZ SCHOLARSHIP FOR PEACE & JUSTICE In 2004, the Puerto Rican community lost an advocate, community leader and urban warrior. Richie Pérez was a beloved activist and leader in the ﬁ ght for social justice and human rights. He brought integrity and unity to many causes to which he was committed, which included the struggle for racial justice and against police brutality, Puerto Rican independence and universal human rights. In his memory, Comité Noviembre has established the Richie Pérez Scholarship for Peace and Justice. The award recognizes Puerto Rican young people for their commitment, activism and achievements in any of the areas of human rights and social justice. This annual award promotes both the advancement of new leaders in the movement for peace and justice, and invests in their continued growth by providing support for their ongoing education and political development. The scholarship recipient will receive $1,000.

ANNUAL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT – ROLE MODELS FORUM To ensure that young adults have the opportunity to meet and interact with professionals from all ﬁ elds and careers, CN partnered with NASA and established a leadership development forum that took place at Hostos Community College, CUNY in the middle of the South Bronx. Several Puerto Rican/Hispanic microbiologists, scientists and engineers from NASA Centers conducted a presentation on Careers at NASA to a group of Latino high school and college students interested in engineering, biology and the study of space. The event was a huge success. Having professionals that looked liked them, spoke their language and had similar backgrounds at these high level positions at NASA reinforced their career goals and dreams. Having NASA personnel address these young people reinforces the mission of CN’s leadership development program and gives these young people a day they will remember for the rest of their lives. These visits give young adults from the inner city, speciﬁ cally Puerto Ricans and Hispanics, the opportunity to realize that they too can achieve greatness. The program continues at Hostos with NASA. This year CN has also partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters Latino Bigs to identify Puerto Rican/Hispanic mentors. ANNUAL EDUCATIONAL CULTURAL TRIP TO PUERTO RICO “BUSCANDO NUESTRAS RAÍCES” Buscando Nuestras Raíces is an adventure into a cultural and educational experience for Puerto Ricans and others who want to explore the richness of Puerto Rico’s culture, ancestral roots and history. Making this trip a reality was a natural progression of CN’s mission and goals. The itinerary takes into account that many of us, although we visit the island frequently, rarely visit the cultural and historical sites and landmarks unique to Puerto Rico and renowned throughout the world. It is a journey participants will remember for many years to come.

This trip has become a catalyst for discussion on the economic, social and environmental issues that are affecting Puerto Rico. CN has become a vehicle by which to bring these issues to light on the mainland. CN has championed several and has been vocal in their support and position both on the island and in New York. Through articles, workshops and forums after visiting Puerto Rico during the educational trip, CN has taken positions and action on the clean-up, health and economic situation of Vieques, protection of the Northeast Ecological Corridor, the building of el gasoducto, equal benefi ts for veterans living in PR, securing Puerto Rico’s boarders from terrorists and drug traffi cking, social service programs for the elderly, veterans and the drug addicted. The eighth annual Buscando Nuestras Raíces trip is being planned for the summer of 2014. PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH KICK-OFF CELEBRATION The CN Puerto Rican Heritage Month kick-off event usually takes place each year during the last week of October. At this event, CN honors Puerto Rican community heroes through Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad Awards, unveils its annual poster and distributes its journal calendar of event. This event is free for the community. Over 300 key community and business leaders as well as elected offi cials attend this very festive, musical and cultural event. LO MEJOR DE NUESTRA COMUNIDAD AWARD Through Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad award, CN recognizes outstanding individuals who are the unsung heroes of our community and who are making a difference in the Puerto Rican communities of this country. Puerto Ricans whose pride in their heritage and strength of character have empowered themselves and inspired others to make signifi cant impact on the community are recognized. The recipients of this award are chosen by CN from nominations submitted by the community. These individuals are honored at the Puerto Rican Heritage Month kick-off celebration. CN’S ANNUAL GALA BENEFIT The CN Annual Gala Benefi t was instituted in 1996 at its tenth anniversary to raise funds for its scholarship award program and other CN educational, cultural and leadership development activities. The event has continued to attract key leaders of New York’s Puerto Rican community and Corporate America. The gala is scheduled for Friday, November 15, 2013 at the NY Hilton in Manhattan. The proceeds of this annual event, support all of our programs and allow CN to provide free programming and information to the community year-round as well as scholarship dollars.

20 Comité Noviembre Mission and Programs (continued)

CN’S ANNUaL PUERTO RICAN ARTISANS FAIR & EXHIBIT The Artisan Fair & Exhibit was established in 2006, in celebration of Comité Noviembre’s 20th anniversary. Making this fair a reality was a natural progression of CN’s goals and mission, and was made possible by CUNY’s Vice Chancellor Er- nesto Malave who passed away in November 2009.

CN invited Puerto Rican artisans from throughout the US and Puerto Rico to participate in this Fair. Over 40 artesanos puer- torriqueños participated, and the event boasted an attendance of over 5000 people in this very ﬁ rst Fair in 2006 at Hunter College and again in 2007. In 2008, the Fair which continued to exceed CN’s expectations with over 60 artisans participating and a steady ﬂ ow of 5000 people, the fair was moved to the Church of St. Paul the Apostle in Manhattan. Four years ago the fair found its home at Hostos Community College in the Bronx. For the past six years CN has conducted workshops for children and adults, to ensure that our youth learn about our culture, traditions and folklore. This event, which is free to the community, is advertised as an opportunity to kick-off the holiday shopping season and to purchase unique Puerto Rican original gifts for that special person on your list and, at the same time, support our artesanos.

Last year, CN instituted its ﬁ rst annual Puerto Rican Author’s Book Expo. The event garnered the participation of over 25 respected and well known Puerto Rican authors. Some of the ﬁ nest Puerto Rican writer’s in New York were at hand to sign, sell and read from their books. The Puerto Rican Author’s Book Expo was coordinated by Sery Colón. This year the 2nd annual PRABE will be coordinated by poet and performance artist Maria Aponte. CN’S ANNUAL HEALTH FAIR In 2009, CN instituted the First Annual Health Fair that ran concurrently with the Artisans Fair. The Health component of the Fair was added because of the great number of residents concentrated in the Bronx and neighboring boroughs with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity. This year CN partnered with IPR/HE and health care providers to conduct health fairs during the summer months as well as in November. Puerto Rican Institute for the Development of the Arts, PRIDA The vision of Luis Cordero, Co-Chair of the CN Annual Artisans Fair & Exhibit, PRIDA, was established in 2011 in collaboration with CN to assist, promote and support Puerto Rican artists by establishing a membership program that will advocate, empower and service the member organizations and artists. PRIDA grew out of the success of the Artisans Fair and the need to promote and assist Puerto Rican entrepreneurs, grow, expand and develop their unique businesses. CN’S DAY OF COMMUNITY SERVICE & SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY The Day of Community Service and Social Responsibility, was established in 1995 to coincide with the theme: “The Sprit of Commitment …The Power of Action. Live it! For the past eighteen years, CN has set aside the Sunday before Thanksgiving as a day of community service and social responsibility.

During this day people participate in several volunteer efforts that aid the Puerto Rican community and its organizations. The purpose of the day is to show the spirit of commitment and the power of action. Over the past years, this event has been a great success and organizations throughout the city have beneﬁ ted from this collaboration, including homeless and battered women’s shelters and senior centers as well as individual families. This year’s event will take place simultaneously on Sunday, November 24, 2013, at several locations throughout the City in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens, from 11AM to 2PM.

CN along with youth leadership development and education organizations of ASPIRA of New York, El Puente, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Latino Bigs will conduct a food drive of non-perishable foods before the event to create Thanksgiving dinner baskets for the poor of NY. This year’s goal is to create 300 food baskets. Food baskets will be distributed on the 24th. CN Day of Community Service and Social Responsibility Thanksgiving Turkey Fund Each year CN distributes over 300 turkeys to needy families. The Yorkville Pantry generously donates 75 turkeys for distribution at El Museo del Barrio, and in the past we have received donations from Health First and City Harvest Food Bank but it is never enough. This year, CN is requesting donations from YOU, the community to purchase 300 – 10 to 15lb turkeys. The goal is to raise $4000. Please make out check to: Comité Noviembre and include Turkey Drive in the memo section of your check. Please mail check to: Comité Noviembre C/O TAS Communications, LLC, 45 East Hartsdale Avenue – Suite 3L, Hartsdale, NY 10530, Attn: Teresa A. Santiago. You can also make donation by PAYPAL by logging onto our website at www.comitenoviembre.org and follow PAYPAL directions. Help us make a difference through the Spirit of Commitment and the Power of Action!

21 Comité Noviembre Mission and Programs (continued) CN’s Manhattan Neighborhood Network Cable Television Show Early this year, CN partnered with Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN) to launch a monthly cable television show. The one-hour show will stay true to CN’s mission of commemorating and acknowledging all aspects of Puerto Rican life, from the social and cultural to the educational, economic and political, to create awareness of and preserve our rich culture, language, and heritage. MNN has a reach of 650,000 subscribers and can be watched worldwide over the internet at www. mnn.org. The CN website will also carry the link to view shows as well as proﬁ les of guests for educational purposes.

The inaugural show aired in March 2012, and focused on the role of the Puerto Rican woman in the development, growth and enhancement of the Puerto Rican community in New York, in celebration of Women’s History Month. Subsequent shows have dealt with Puerto Rican music, culture, the CN galas and various projects. ANNUAL SPOKESPERSON Each year, CN selects a spokesperson that is making a difference in this country, empowering others and shaping, not only our future as Puerto Ricans, but the future of all Americans. They have all played an important role in leaving our unique imprint in the current and future history of this country. THEME DEVELOPMENT Each year, CN selects a theme with a two-fold purpose: to celebrate Puerto Rican Heritage and to motivate, mobilize and empower our community, specifi cally our youth, to take ownership of our culture, traditions and heritage. COMMEMORATIVE JOURNAL The annual journal calendar becomes a collector’s item because of the articles and historical information that it provides. These essays and articles, written by community activists, educators, artists and CN members, are published annually in several newspapers ranging from The New York Daily News, El Diario La Prensa, as well as the San Juan Star and El Nuevo Día in Puerto Rico. The journals are distributed to educational, cultural and community organizations. Over 250 events and activities are sponsored and held by community based organizations, cultural institutions and government offi cials throughout New York. POSTER/ARTIST Since its inception, the annual CN poster has been in high demand by teachers and educators. The competition to be the commissioned artist of CN and design the coveted poster has also been exciting throughout the years and has led to the promotion, acknowledgement and exposure of very talented Puerto Rican artists. The poster is created each year to promote and inform the public about Puerto Rican Heritage Month, and to create an artistic expression of the organization’s theme. The poster is distributed throughout New York, New Jersey and the tri-state area. ANNUAL TRAVELING POSTER EXHIBIT To commemorate CN’s 25th anniversary an exhibit highlighting the artistic renditions of our theme over the past 25 years was curated. CN is proud that this Exhibition has become an annual event adding our current poster to the collection. The Exhibit has been shown at Riverbank State Park – Cultural Complex/NYS Offi ce of Parks, Recreation and Historic Pres- ervation in Manhattan on November 2012. In June 2013 the exhibit was displayed at Taller Boricua at the Julia de Burgos Cultural Center in Manhattan and is currently being exhibited at the Terrence Cardinal Cooke auditorium until December 2013. CN WEBSITE – www.comitenoviembre.org The website provides the history of CN as well as the Puerto Rican community in Puerto Rico and the United States. The website will serve as an educational vehicle of all those searching for information on Puerto Rican history and culture especially educators and students. The website launched in November of 2006 and was designed with the capacity to hold company logos or messages (web advertising) for sponsors of the website or CN programs. The sponsor of the website will have prime signage year-round. Due to high printing costs and the world going “green” CN will promote heavily the use of the website for access to calendar journal information as well as scholarship applications and other educational materials.

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An artist, musician, community historian, writer, and human rights advocate, Roberto “Mukaro Agueibana” Borrero has a long and distinguished history linking cultural, environmental and human Roberto rights activism: locally, nationally and internationally. Informed by a deep respect for his Taino heritage, Borrero’s work, professionally and voluntarily, continues to facilitate unique opportunities for dialog and positive action across the public, private and governmental sectors. Mukaro A former radio host on WBAI Pacifi ca Radio, Borrero was also on staff in the Education Depart- ment of NY’s American Museum of Natural History for over a decade. During his tenure at the Mu- Borrero seum, he organized numerous opportunities for local, national, and international artists, performers, organizations and speakers to present their work to various audiences at this esteemed institution. He currently works as United Nations program consultant for the International Indian Treaty Council, the fi rst indigenous non-governmental organization to attain consultative status at the UN. In addition, Borrero has shared his cultural and professional expertise in various capacities within the United Nations’ system, as well as with non-profi t and for-profi t en- tities such as PBS/BBC, the Tribal Link Foundation, the Aveda Corpo- ration, El Museo del Barrio and the Smithsonian Institution’s National Bon ki Moon, UN Secretary General and Roberto Borrero Museum of the American Indian to name a few.

Over the last two decades, he has continued to directly engage local communities, voluntarily serving on various boards and committees such as the Clemente Soto Velez Center, Friends of Brook Park, the Wittenberg Center for Alternative Resources, the Kasibahagua Taino Cultural Society and the NGO Committee on the United Nations International Decade of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, among others. Borrero also serves as the current president of the United Confederation of Taino People, an international initiative dedicated to raising the visibility of Taino and other Caribbean Indigenous Peoples, as well as to the protection of the natural environment within and out of the Caribbean. In this capacity, he has participated in a variety of social justice and environmental issues ranging from the Vieques campaign to the recent “Gasoducto” campaign, to the repatriation and re-internment of Taino ancestral remains in Borikén (Puerto Rico). Earlier this year, Borrero was selected to participate as a member of the Latin American and Caribbean delegation to the international preparatory meeting for the upcoming United Nations World Conference on Indigenous Peoples held in Alta, Norway.

In addition to grass-roots activism, his writings on indigenous rights, the environment and Taino culture are published internationally, and is a Humanities scholar-in-residence at the National Endowment for the Humanities in 2001. Most recently, Borrero was awarded an honorary Doctorate Degree of Philosophy in Humanities by Kayiwa International University of Uganda. Roberto “Mukaro Agueibana” Borrero resides in New York with his wife Joselyn and his three children, Nakota, Mainaku, and Kayaani.

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Sery was born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, but has been living continuously in New York City since his early teens. He is an actor, former dancer, declamador/poet/director, producer and Sery cultural activist. Sery studied modern dance at the Martha Graham School of Modern Dance and studied acting at the Eric Santamaría Drama Studio both in NYC He is the founder of Colón Agüeybaná Productions and the former Agüeybaná Bookstore. Sery has performed in many theaters and night clubs in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut as well as in Honduras in Central America. In October 1997, Channel 5’s Good Day New York chose Sery as “New Yorker of the Week.”

Sery has been featured in a variety of media outlets, including the Daily News, New York Newsday, New York Post, El Diario/La Prensa, El Vocero de Puerto Rico, New York Latino Magazine, and American Booksellers Magazine.

He has had a powerful impact on all facets on the Puerto Rican community, particularly the artistic community, resulting in being the inspiration for two (2) poems. Well celebrated poet Tato Laviera composed a poem paying tribute to Sery and Agüeybaná. Ex-Young Lord Eddie Aguilar also created a poem paying homage to Sery and his unique bookstore. He was also featured in Luis A. Cardona’s book “The History of the Puerto Ricans in the United States.”

In 2007 Sery served as the store manager and one of the event coordinators of the former Cemí Underground, a cultural shop located in El Barrio.

In October 2008 under Agüeybaná Productions, Sery produced, developed and directed a poetic and musical event entitled ¡Alabanza! Corretjer, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Puerto Rican national poet Juan Antonio Corretjer.

Sery appeared in the music video “Apariencias” by the band Navegante where he played the leading role. He had also participated in various public service announcements.

In November 2010, Sery was given the responsibility to be the artistic director of the event “Lolita Lebrón, a Commemoration of her Life” presented at Hunter College.

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For twenty-ﬁ ve years, Dr. Carlos Conde has worked as professor of voice, opera/performing/ practice lecturer, as well as stage director with leading musical and cultural organizations throughout North, Central, and South America, Europe, and the Middle East. Dr. A bass-baritone praised as an “opera natural” by the Dallas Morning News, Dr. Conde has Carlos performed more than 80 roles alongside the world’s ﬁ nest singing artists including Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo. His honors for performance include awards from Sullivan Foundation, First Prize in the Palm Beach Opera Competition, and First Place District, First Conde Place Regional, and National Finalist in The Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions.

An alumnus of The Juilliard School’s prestigious Juilliard Opera Center, Dr. Conde received the Degree of Doctor of Musical Arts from State University of New York at Stony Brook. He has taught on the faculties of the International Vocal Arts Institute in Tel Aviv and Canada, Rutgers University in New Jersey, The Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, The Juilliard Pre-College Division, and The Brooklyn College of the City University of New York.

As a cultural ambassador of his native Puerto Rico, Dr. Conde has been widely praised for creating partnerships with cultural institutions in Puerto Rico, Texas, Miami and New York to foster the careers of Puerto Rican artists. He has been recognized for his contributions with the highest awards from the Congress of Puerto Rico, to many Puerto Rican cultural institutions in Puerto Rico and New York.

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Bronx-born Elena Martínez received an M.A. in Anthropology and an M.A. in Folklore at the University of Oregon. Interested in material culture and urban folklore, following internships at the Elena Smithsonian Institution’s Folklife Festival and City Lore, she took a full-time position at City Lore in 1997. As staff Folklorist at City Lore: The New York Center for Urban Folk Culture for many years, she was been the primary ﬁ eldworker for Place Matters, and its sub-project, the South Bronx Martinez Latin Music Project, conducting interviews with musicians from the South Bronx, photo and archival research, and producing public programs. She co-produced the documentary, From Mambo to Hip Hop: A South Bronx Tale, which aired on PBS in September 2006 and won the NCLR’s (National Council of La Raza) 2007 ALMA Award for Best TV Documentary; and she is currently the producer on an upcoming documentary about Latin boogaloo. Elena wrote the nomination which put Casa Amadeo, New York City’s oldest continously-run Latin music store which was founded by Victoria Hernández (sister to Rafael), on the National Register of Historic Places—the ﬁ rst Puerto Rican site on the mainland to be included.

Along with the multi Grammy-nominated Latin jazz musician Bobby Sanabria, Elena currently co-curates the arts and culture series, Bronx Rising! at the Bronx Music Heritage Center Lab at WHEDco’s Intervale Green building. The series is a prelude to programming that will take place at the permanent performing arts Center to open in 2015 in the Melrose section of the Bronx and which will celebrate and recognize the Bronx’s rich musical and artistic legacy. Elena has also worked on Puerto Rican –themed programming for organizations such as Community Works, the Brooklyn Historical Society, the New York Historical Society, Centro Civico (Amsterdam, NY) the Clemente Soto Velez Education and Cultural Center and Hostos Community College.

Elena curated the exhibition, “¡Que bonita bandera!: The Puerto Rican Flag as Folk Art,” (2004) which traveled through the tri-state area and was the assistant curator for the exhibit, “Nueva York: 1613-1945” at El Museo del Barrio (2010). She has been a contributor to Latinas in the United States: An Historical Encyclopedia by historians Virginia Sánchez Korrol and Vicki L. Ruíz (Indiana University Press 2006); Women’s Folklore & Folklife: An Encyclopedia of Beliefs, Customs, Tales, Music, and Art, (ABC-CLIO 2008); and New York State Folklife Reader: Diverse Voices (2013). Her work has also been part of the book Hidden New York edited by Steven Zeitlin and Marci Reaven (Rutgers Unversity Press 2006) and Lox, Stocks, and Backstage Broadway: Iconic Trades of New York City by Nancy Groce (Smithsonian Institution 2010). She and Bobby Sanabria are currently working on a book through the Center for Puerto Rican Studies, The Puerto Rican Musical Experience in New York City. Elena’s articles and reviews have also appeared in the Bronx County Historical Society Journal, the VOICES: Journal of the New York Folklore Society, the Journal of American Folklore and CENTRO Journal.

She was a student of Rosa Elena Egipciaco, a master in the art of mundillo (Puerto Rican bobbin lace) and National Heritage Award winner, and she has also worked with and organized programs pertaining to this craft. This past summer she gave a Botkin Lecture presentation, “I’d Still Be Puerto Rican Even if Born on the Moon,” at the Library of Congress’ American Folklife Center, the ﬁ rst time material on Nuyorican or Puerto Rican culture has been presented there. She is currently on the Advisory Boards for Casita Maria/Dancing in the Streets’ South Bronx Culture Trail, WHEDco’s Bronx Music Heritage Center, the Center for Puerto Rican Studies Archive at Hunter College, the Bronx Children’s Museum, and Los Pleneros de la 21.

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Bill Pacheco was born at the old Fordham hospital in the Bronx. The youngest of four siblings, he has always been proud of his Puerto Rican roots. He has been involved with Bill telecommunications; international trade; grant writing; banking, while maintaining a role in the community. Pacheco In the 80’s, Bill directed an educational TV program on WNYE TV in New York. One of his highlights was when he was given the opportunity to interview Tito Puente and Celia Cruz. He always managed to cover events which involved Puerto Rican issues. When TV host Malin Falu decided to start her cable TV show, he was there to provide technical support. Bill produced two concerts at Town Hall in Manhattan. The ﬁ rst in 1989, entitled Dos Cuatro’s en Fuego featuring Maso Rivera and Yomo Toro and the second was the Ballet Company of San Juan in 1990.

In the 90’s, Bill volunteered for many community groups in the Bronx. At the suggestion of the late Michael Nunez, Bill became project director of Bronx Venture Corp., which he eventually led as Director. In 1995, Bill’s grant writing won a $200,000 contract with the NYS Department of Labor to implement the ﬁ rst English as a Second Language (ESL) program for displaced adult workers in the Bronx. During that time, Bill volunteered for the Puerto Rican Day Parade as the Chair of the Business Awards Banquet.

Bill also started an international trade Fiber Optics Company called Best Wire and Cable. He dealt with countries such as Costa Rica, Colombia, Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, Korea, as well as Puerto Rico Telephone and Power Authority.

In his career Bill represented Chase, HSBC and Washington Mutual as a Small Business Relationship Manager as well as a bank manager with Bank of America. During this time, he served as Chairman of the Economic Devel- opment Committee for Planning Board 4 in the Bronx, Chair of the advisory board for Morrisania Diagnostic and Treatment Center and board member of the Puerto Rican Home Attendants.

In 2008, Bill suffered a massive stroke which left him for a few months in the hospital with ‘Locked in Syndrome’. About 90% of people that experience this condition die witihn the ﬁ rst four months and the rest live in vegetative state, and only one percent live with some kind of paralysis. Bill attributes his luck to his faith in God and the love and support of family and friends. Progress has been slow however, Bill is determined to beat the odds. Bill spends most of his time attending physical therapy and hosting a page on Facebook called “WepaVille,” which speaks of the contributions of Puerto Ricans in Puerto Rico and the US. It has close to 70,000 fans and is still growing!

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In 1980, Al Quiñones along with Fred Demera, Eduardo Rivera and Victoria Medina founded 52 People for Progress, (52 PFP) with the initial mission to renovate a neighborhood park Al located in the Longwood section of the Bronx. The Park had suffered neglect along with the rest of the South Bronx when urban decline devastated the neighborhood in the late 60s Quiñones and 70s. The popular neighborhood spot deteriorated and was soon abandoned by all but drug dealers. Crack vials littered the open space. Upset at seeing their childhood playground in its desolate state, Quiñones, volunteers and members of 52 PFP took it upon themselves to arrange to have trash removed from the park and the adjacent abandoned property, commissioned a mural near the handball courts and lobbied the Parks Department to renovate the park house and station an employee there. A project they ﬁ gured would take them a year became a long-term commitment to the neighborhood, still going strong more than 20 years later.

The relentless advocacy work, perseverance and physical labor that has gone into 52 PFP and 52 Park is a true testament to Al Quiñones’ passion, dedication and love for his community. What he and the members of 52 PFP have accomplished over the years speaks to the empowerment of a community. This 20-year history includes a $1.1 million restoration project that broke ground in 1989. 52 Park received new playground equipment, game tables, a spray pool, handball walls, drinking fountains and trees. It also gained adjacent space, a former abandoned lot which the Parks Department had acquired in 1986, which brought the park up to a full acre and provided ground for a new basketball court and an outdoor amphitheater. Many of these changes would not have been approved without intense pressure from 52 PFP. 52 PFP felt it was important to build the amphitheater to create a space for educational and cultural programming for neighborhood residents.

The park might have been indistinguishable from other vest-pocket parks if not for the surprising advocacy effort by a dedicated group of volunteers spearheaded by Quiñones. Today, located in a neighborhood that still has a high count of vacant buildings and abandoned lots and just a moderate level of housing construction, 52 Park is a popular urban oasis. It is owned by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. Since 1980, the volunteers of 52 PFP have been partners in its management and revitalization.

The 250-seat amphitheater opened in 1990, however, and for 11 years has been the site of the 52 Latin Jazz Series, produced by 52 PFP every summer from July through September. This concert series has included performances by Charlie Palmieri, Jimmy Sabater, Pete “El Conde” Rodríguez, Tito Nieves, Orquesta Broadway and Manny Oquen- do’s Libre. The organization presents a wide range of programming at the theater, including community talent shows, Saturday morning children’s shows, and sporting events.

Over the years Mr. Quiñones has battled health issues including losing most of his eye sight and is considered legally blind. However, that has not slowed him down. Al, as well as the 75 volunteers who keep the park a thriving community gathering place, continue to come in the evenings after work and on the weekends to clean the park and monitor the bathrooms and the park house equipment. Thanks to these efforts, many neighborhood kids use the park. Mr. Quiñones estimates that the group has put in over 50,000 hours of volunteer time in the past two decades. Because of their initiative, he feels that 52 Park has become a symbol of community empowerment and victory.

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Juan Santiago (‘PaPo Swiggity’) is a Nuyorican poet, promoter, community organizer and co-founder of Capicu Poetry and Cultural Showcase, and the Sangre Viva Arts Alliance, representing some of Juan the most prominent art-for-change activists in the city. He was born in Brooklyn to Puerto Rican parents transplanted to New York City from “Papo Swiggity” Bayamon and Arecibo.

In 2006, an opportunity came to him to establish a cultural series in Brooklyn, and he sought partners in the Puerto Rican cultural realm to make Santiago the new series, paying homage to the Nuyorican Movement. In early 2007 PaPo partnered with blog site SofritoForYourSoul, and thus Capicu Poetry & Cultural Showcase was born. From the very beginning, this was a gathering place for a primarily Puerto Rican audience to share resources as well as poetry in the face of the gentrifi cation that was taking hold of Williamsburg. As a fi rst foray into becoming a solid community resource, Capicu created an online community site LatinoCommunity.info, which sources job opportunities, specifi cally seeking bilingual, multicultural or Latino applicants.

At the end of 2007, PaPo and the Capicu team partnered with one school in the Bushwick United Headstart program, to develop a toys-for-tots initiative known as Pa’L Pueblo Charities for the school, and deliver toys to the children with a team dressed up like Christmas characters. Seven years later, they now strive to cover all 5 schools reaching almost 500 children within Bushwick United Headstart program.

Having known the psychological impacts of becoming orphaned, in 2009 PaPo partnered with Orphans International, later known as Better Future International, a global agency which seeks to empower orphanages and schools for the poor around the world. PaPo held and facilitated the fundraisers in NYC particularly for their sites in the Caribbean, supporting hundreds of children.

In 2010, PaPo partnered with XMental Inc, a restorative justice program run in conjunction with the New York Department of Probation, to hold annual fundraisers to acquire school supplies for children in the NYC shelter system. The Coalition For The Homeless lists this annual event as the biggest single-event source of supplies that helps their homeless children achieve their right to education.

Tuned in to the pulse of current trends in youth culture, arts-for-change and social good projects in NYC, he stands at the forefront of some key movements taking place at the grassroots level of organizing Puerto Ricans/Latinos in the South Bronx, Spanish Harlem, Lower East Side, Bushwick Brooklyn, and parts of New Jersey.

29 DE NUESTRA COMUNIDAD Celebrando Lo Mejor

Born and educated in the Bronx, Elizabeth began her professional career with the New York law ﬁ rm of Gair, Gair & Conason as a Legal Assistant and after twelve years, gained a Elizabeth tremendous amount of knowledge of the legal ﬁ eld.

In 1998, Elizabeth joined The New York Botanical Garden on a part-time basis and, soon Figueroa thereafter, with her abilities to accomplish and get things done, was promoted to Government Relations Associate.

During the next three years, she realized the importance of the ever-changing community and dedicated herself to forming relationships with elected ofﬁ cials, local community boards and the business community at large to make them aware of the wonderful facilities at the Garden.

With her ability to bring people together, in 2001 Elizabeth was promoted to Community Relations Manager, and in 2004 she was appointed Director of Community Relations.

Over the past 15 years, Elizabeth has been the point-person with respect to the community in areas of event planning, project development and all the special needs of the community.

Major projects that she has produced include cultural events and educational workshops. Among them:

• Black History Month • Women’s History Month • Puerto Rican Heritage Month • Bronx Day at the Garden • Legislative Events • Hispanic Heritage Month • As a breast cancer survivor, Elizabeth believes in the importance of serving the community and served on the board of directors of The American Cancer Society and currently serves on the board of 100 Hispanic Women of Westchester.

She actively devotes her time to the following organizations and committees:

• Monteﬁ ore’s B’N Fit Advisory Committee - In support of health initiatives to promote an overall healthy lifestyle for teenagers and their families by providing hospital and community based weight loss services for teens in a safe environment. • St. Barnabas Community Service Plan-A group of community leaders working together to promote quality healthcare on issues of tobacco use and diabetes. • Bronx Times 25 Bronx Inﬂ uential Women Committee • Bronx Chamber of Commerce Women History Month Committee • Casita Maria’s Advisory Committee

Elizabeth has been honored by the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, The Bronx Times as one of the 25 Bronx Inﬂ uential Women and The Bronx Free Press Women of Distinction award for her community service.

She continues to proudly represent The New York Botanical Garden at all community affairs and events.

30 DE NUESTRA COMUNIDAD Celebrando Lo Mejor

Manny Vega is an American painter, illustrator, printmaker, muralist, mosaicist, set and costume designer and creator of public works of art. His work portrays the history and traditions of the African Diaspora that exist in the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Manny Born in the South Bronx, Vega studied at the High School of Art and Design. He joined the artist collective Taller Boricua in 1979, where he studied through 1986. He was a pupil of legendary Harlem printmaker Robert Blackburn from 1980-1990. Some of Vega’s public art Vega projects include mosaic murals at the Pregones Theater in the Bronx, a mosaic mural portrait of Julia De Burgos in East Harlem, a series of mosaic panels for the 110 street train station, which depict the vibrant neighborhood life of the Puerto Rican community and document the aspirations, trials and history of a generation of Latinos and Puerto Ricans acclimating to life in New York City. His most recent mosaic mural ESPIRITU, located at the corner of 105th and Lexington Avenue, is a visual prayer in glass and stone. Vega’s art aims at creating, “a place for all people to recognize themselves as members of a global community.” He believes that through shared information about our histories, customs, and belief systems, we can reﬂ ect, compare and continue to learn from one another. His has created a series of mosaic projects, based on the study of classic Byzantine mosaic fabrication, to adopt this style to modern day imagery, which he calls “Byzantine Hip Hop”. Vega has taught visual arts for organizations such as El Museo del Barrio, Arts Connection, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the American Mu- seum of Natural History and the Caribbean Cultural Center. He has exhibited extensively in the United States, Puerto Rico and Brazil. His work has been documented by the Fowler Museum of UCLA, the Smithsonian, as well as Dartmouth College. This body of work has been documented in the book, Beads, Body, and Soul: Art and Light in the Yoruba Universe,[1] as well as the book, The Yoruba Artist.[2] For the last 25 years, Manny has been intentionally building a bridge between his life in urban New York City and Salvador, Bahia, where he has been able to recognize cultural and spiritual facets of his life in both locations. He has a deep commitment to the preservation of our historical existence. His devo- tion to craftsmanship, together with his appreciation for history, have created a unique and important body of work that portray the humanity and dignity of a people in these times. Vega is presently working with community members committed to the creation of a public art mosaic mural that will celebrate the legacy of educational visionary Antonia Pantoja. The mural of Dr. Pantoja will inspire and foster civic dialogue among families, visitors and East Harlem residents about the value of education while honoring one of the nation’s foremost educational activists and pioneers, and her lasting impact as an education advocate. The mural will tell the story of ASPIRA and the many institutions Dr. Pantoja helped to found. Contributions to this project will also make it possible for Vega to conduct a series of workshop where he will teach the art of mural making to young people and community members as he creates an iconic image that pays homage to a great community leader. http://artbymannyvega.com/

31 Dr. Antonia Pantoja. ASPIRA. Manny Vega. Public art. East Harlem. Any of these words spark your interest?

WHOWHO WE ARE: A group of individuals with a shared interest in cecelebratingle the legacy of educational visionary and Presidential Medal ooff Freedom recipient Dr. Antonia Pantoja. WHWHAT WE WANT TO DO: Create an iconic image that pays homage to a great community leader, Dr. Antonia Pantoja. We have cocommissioned renowned artist Manny Vega to create a PUBLIC MMOSAIC MURAL that will inspire and foster civic dialogue among EEast Harlem residents, the Puerto Rican community and the larger LLatino community about the value of EDUCATION and CIVIC EENGAGEMENT. Th e mural will tell the story of ASPIRA and the mmany institutions Dr. Pantoja helped to found. Th e mural’s creation Dr. Pantoja sourrounded by Justice Sotomayor, Dr. Clara will include COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT component, as Rodriguez, Maite Junco, Lee Llambelis, Neyda Martinez, Gloria Montealegre, Elizabeth Deleon, Sandra Guzman, Manny Vega will teach the art of mural making to young aspiring Mireya Navaro, Wanda Llambelis, Magali Roig, Ana artists and members of the community. Marengo, Sonia Gonzalez and other infl uential Latinas WHAT CAN YOU DO: Help us make this a reality! Donate today! www. pantojamural.com/donate. Please share with friends and family. Th e Dr. Antonia Pantoja Mural Project Indiegogo campaign will remain in eff ect through November 27, 2013. Please share the Indiegogo campaign link broadly with friends and family far and wide. http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/dr-antonia- pantoja-mural-project--2 Th is campaign is raising funds on behalf of Hispanic Federation Inc, a verifi ed nonprofi t. Th e campaign does not necessarily refl ect the views of the nonprofi t or have any formal association with it. All contributions are considered unrestricted gifts and can’t be specifi ed for any particular purpose. after the end of the Indiegogo campaign which ends in Nov. 27th, contributions can be sent to the Hispanic Federation, Inc., 55 Exchange Place, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10005, 212.233.8955 Memo line should read for Pantoja Mural Project

THE INSPIRATION: A passionate, indomitable leader, Dr. Pantoja (1922-2002) sought to empower Puerto Ricans and other Latinos through education, advocacy and the leadership development of its youth. THE VISION: To create a public art mosaic mural celebrating the life Dr. Pantoja and the vibrant community of El Barrio while enhancing the cultural awareness and civic participation of our youth. THE CREATOR: You. Donate today! Here are some of the items we are offering for your donation. For a For a $50 Donation: For a $100 Donation: For a $250 Donation: For a $500 Donation: For a $1000 Donation: $25 Donation: Monthly updates on the A copy of Lillian status of A copy of Dr. An exclusive limited edition 2 passes to the mural Pantoja’s book Jimenez’s documentary hand made etching of Dr. A digital reproduction of a El Museo Del Barrio on Dr. Pantoja Pantoja created by renowned Juan Sanchez* print done in project. Memoir of a Visionary muralist and public work artist honor of Dr. Pantoja. Antonia Pantoja ¡Presente! Manny Vega.

* Sanchez was awarded a John Guggenheim Foundation Fellowship in 1988. His work has been exhibited at many places in New York, such as: Th e Metopolitan Museum of Art, the Musuem of Modern Art, Th e Whitney Museum of American Art, El Museo Del Barrio, and in the Caribbean at the Instutiue of Puerto Rican Culture in San Juan, and Casa de las Americas and El Centro Wilfredo Lam in Havana. 32 103RD & LEXINGTON AVENUE RENAMED RAFAEL TUFIÑO WAY

Taller Boricua is proud to announce that co- founder and mentor, Rafael Tufi ño became the fi rst New York City-born visual artist of Puerto Rican decent to have a street named in his honor. The unveiling of Rafael Tufi ño Way happened on Friday October 18, 2013 on the corner of 103rd and Lexington Avenue in Man- hattan. This tribute was due to the determination and efforts of Architect Warren James and community activist Deborah Quiñones as well as the leadership of NYC Council Mem- ber Melissa Mark-Viverito, who represents East Harlem and the South Bronx. The Taller Boricua family of visual and performing artists, supporters and friends were all on hand for the unveiling of “Rafael Tufi ño Way”. The current Exhibit at Taller Boricua, “Flights of Fancy,” includes 20 local women artists, featuring “Rafael Tufi ño Way”, a painting by Nitza Tufi ño in loving memory of her father. The Exhibit will run until the end of December. Rafael Tufi ño, “Tefo” (October 16, 1922 – March 13, 2008) Known as the “Painter of the People”, Rafael Tufi ño was one of the most remarkable and prominent fi gures in the Puerto Rican and Latin American visual arts. His paintings, printmaking, posters, illustrations, and drawings are internationally recognized for capturing the soul and nobility of humble people. Tufi ño was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1922 to Gregoria Figueroa (Goyita) (a tobacco worker) and Augustín Tufi ño (a merchant seaman). Tufi ño’s family was part of an earlier generation of Puerto Ricans that circulated between New York and Puerto Rico in search of a better way of life. He was in fact a child of that migration living at different times under the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City and at other times in the barrios of San Juan. It is in Puerto Rico that Tu- fi ño developed his talent for drawing by taking mechanical drawing in school, serving as an apprentice in a sign shop, and subsequently being mentored by Alejandro Sánchez Felipe. Tufi ño served in the U.S. Army and with the the G.I. Bill studied in Mexico. There he honed his skills in painting in the Academia de San Carlos and learned printmaking in more informal settings. Several years later, he returned to New York with a young family and moved on to Puerto Rico where his talent begins to get recognition by Puerto Rico’s Community Education Division and the Ateneo Puertorriqueño. Tufi ño emerges as one of the preeminent artists to link the artistic talents of Puerto Ricans from the islands and the Puerto Rican community in New York. In collaboration with other talented Puerto Rican artists, Tufi ño co-founded the Centro de Arte Puertorriqueño (1950) in Puerto Rico and the Taller Boricua (1970) in New York. Rafael Tufi ño was awarded many prizes for his work including receiving a Guggenheim Fellowship (1954), being inducted into Academica de Artes y Ciencias (1993) and receiving honors at the prestigious National Arts Club (2003). He had solo exhibitions in the Ateneo Puertorriqueño, the University of Puerto Rico and the Museo del Grabado Latinoamericano in Puerto Rico; the Riverside Museum and Galeria Sudamericana in New York; and the Casa de las Ameicas in Cuba. His art was also a part of collective exhibitions of Puerto Rican art at the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes in Mexico; the Museum of Latin American Modern Art and Organization of American States in Washington DC; the Squibb Gallery in New Jer- sey; and a UNESCO sponsored event in France. A few of his well-known works were acquired by the Library of Congress (1954), New York Metropolitan Museum of Art (1959), the Museum of Modern Art (1962), the International Graphic Soci- ety (1963), the Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña (1967) and el Museo del Barrio, (2003). Tufi ño died on March 13, 2008 in Condado, Puerto Rico at the age of 85. Upon hearing of his death, the Governor of Puerto Rico ordered all state fl ags to fl y at half staff and proclaimed 2 days of national mourning.

TALLER BORICUA Artist Workshop, Event Space and Gallery “Supporting the community of East Harlem through the arts for over 40 years” 1680 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10029, 212.831.4333 | [email protected] | tallerboricua.org Gallery Hours & Directions: Tues., Wed., Fri. and Sat. 12-6pm, Thurs. 1-7pm. Sun. and Mon. Closed / Subway: 6 train to 103rd Street. Entrance on Lexington Avenue between 105th and 106th Streets. Center is accessible for individuals with disabilities. Free Admission. This exhibition is made possible with support from the New York State Council on the Arts, the New York City Depart- ment of Cultural Affairs, the Consejo Gráﬁ co and individual donations. 33 Celebrating 27 years of Puerto Rican Culture and Heritage

Th e NY Hilton New York City Cocktails: 7PM Dinner: 8PM Live Entertainment Silent Auction Black Tie

Honorees

Giselle Blondet 2013 Spokesperson Luis Alberto Ferre Rangel Actress/Host & Humanitarian Marybeth Melendez Editor in Chief / Univisión Graduate Student, Grupo Ferre Rangel Media College of Staten Island Board Chair / Agenda Ciudadana Hurricane Sandy & Volunteer

Jason Nieves Luis D. Ortiz Allan Villafaña Writer, Producer Million Dollar Listing News Anchor Th e Nieves Company Douglas Elliman Real Estate Noticiero/Primera Edición Telemundo/NBC For more information please contact Teresa A. Santiago, CN’s Chairperson, 914 263-6599, [email protected] Th e proceeds of this event will benefi t the Comité Noviembre Scholarship Awards Program, the Richie Perez Scholarship for Peace & Justice and other annual community programs of CN. 34 New Effort In Support of Congressional Gold Medal for Puerto Rican/Hispanic Heroes of the 65th Infantry – A CALL TO ACTION The Borinqueneers The National Puerto Rican Coalition (NPRC), the premier non-proﬁ t non-partisan His- panic organization representing the voice of the Puerto Rican community has initiated a social and digital media campaign to enhance efforts to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the only Hispanic-segregated, active-duty military unit in U.S. history. Approximately 20,000 soldiers, a majority from Puerto Rico, served in World Wars I and II and in Korea, distinguishing themselves as true American war heroes and known as the 65th Infantry Division – The Borinqueneers. The Borinqueneer Congressional Gold Medal Alliance is a national, non-partisan, all-volunteer organization that, along with other major veterans’ and Hispanic organizations like NPRC have launched a campaign to recognize the sacriﬁ ces and dedicated service of the Borinqueneers. The overall goal is to build support among Members of Congress and increase the number of co-sponsors for The Borinqueneers Congressional Gold Medal Act, H.R 1726 and S.1174.

NPRC with the assistance of National Media Inc. will apply 21st century social media technology to educate, engage, and secure more bill support from all Members of Congress. NPRC’s Twitter account @NPRCAdvocacy will deliver messages weekly to Members of Congress, Capitol Hill staffers, community advocates, and media outlets. As we celebrate another Puerto Rican Heritage Month we must remind Congress that Puerto Ricans/Hispanics have defended freedom and fought in every war since the Revolutionary war. These brave soldiers overcame the hurdles of segregation and prejudice while protecting our nation’s interests and impacting American history and culture. Log onto: support65.rallycongress.com and contact your Congressional and Senatorial delegation Letters are ready for you. It just takes a minute! The power is yours! Make this Happen! Honor the 65th Infantry Regiment (“The Borinqueneers”) with the Congressional Gold Medal Who are the “Borinqueneers”? ■ Ofﬁ cially known as the 65th Infantry Regiment of the Puerto Rico National Guard, this unit has been active since 1920 and has served with distinction in conﬂ icts such as World War I & II, the Korean War and the ongoing War on Terror. ■ The Borinqueneers is the only unit in US military history to have been transferred from the active Army into the National Guard. ■ The Borinqueneers were a racially segregated Hispanic unit of the United States Army.

The Congressional Gold Medal (CGM) ■ A Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award bestowed by the United States Congress and is, along with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States. ■ It is awarded to persons “who have performed an achievement that has an impact on American history and culture that is likely to be recognized as a major achievement in the recipient’s fi eld long after the achievement.” ■ The military units which have been awarded the Congressional Gold Medal are: — The Navaho Wind Talkers – Native American Marines whose primary job was the transmission of secret tactical messages with the use of their Native language — The Nisei Soldiers - Japanese American intelligence soldiers during WWII in the Pacifi c, Africa, Italy and France — The Tuskegee Airmen - the fi rst African-American military aviators — The Montford Point Marines - the fi rst African-Americans to break the race barrier in the Marines. The Merit ■ During the Korean War, the 65th Regiment fought gallantly through some of the war’s most diffi cult battles, receiving special praise from General Douglas MacArthur, Commander in Chief of the United Nations forces engaged in the confl ict. ■ By war’s end the unit had amassed an impressive number of individual medals and awards, including ten Distinguished Service Crosses, 256 Silver Stars, 606 Bronze Stars, and 2,771 Purple Hearts.

Legislations ■ House: H.R. 1726 — Minimum Required: 290 — Current Co-sponsors: 123 (10/15/2013) ■ Senate: S. 1174 — Minimum Required: 67 — Current Co-sponsors: 18 (10/15/2013)

NPRC Actions ■ NPRC is a National member of the Borinqueneers Congressional Gold Medal Alliance (CGM)…www.65thcgm.org ■ Solicit organizations to engage constituents in signing email letters to Congress on support65.rallycongress.com. ■ NPRC via twitter handle @NPRCAdvocacy will be micro-targeting Members of Congress, staffers, and inﬂ uential’s ■ For more information, contact Rafael A. Fantauzzi at 202-223-3918 or via email [email protected], www.nprcinc.org/borinqueneers NPRC is committed to enhancing the social and economic well-being of Puerto Ricans through policy development, research, advocacy, civic engagement, and education. 35 EL DIARIO/LA PRENSA CELEBRATES 100 YEARS Stacey Cabezas/EDLP

On October 12th, 2013, as the lights of the Empire State Building lit up the New York City skyline in blue and red, El Diario/La Prensa celebrated a major milestone as it marked its 100th birthday. As the country’s oldest Spanish-language daily newspaper still in circulation, El Diario/La Prensa has left its mark on all Hispanic communities of New York City for over a century, particularly the Puerto Rican community.

New York City is home to the largest population of Puerto Ricans outside of the island, with numbers rising signiﬁ cantly during “The Great Migration” of Puerto Ricans to New York during World War II.

First published as La Prensa on October 12, 1913, the newspaper ran as a weekly for ﬁ ve years until Puerto Rican born José Campubrí bought the publication and converted it into a daily on June 4th, 1918. La Prensa was also one of the ﬁ rst publications to report about the Jones Act in 1917, which granted U.S. Citizenship to Puerto Ricans.

As Editor-in-chief, Campubrí had big plans for La Prensa, one of them centered around Hispanic societies in New York City. As a result, the Confederation of Puerto Rican Societies In the 1990’s, the Puerto Rican Day Parade of New York surpassed 3 million annual spectators, and was re-branded and re-incorporated as was established in 1938, right in the ofﬁ ces of La Prensa, with “The National Puerto Rican Day Parade”. organizations from various New York City areas. Credit: EDLP Archive, June 11th, 1995 Upon his death in 1942, Campubrí’s wife and daughters would go on and continue his legacy at La Prensa. Four years later on September 15th, 1948, La Prensa would meet its new competitor: El Diario de Nueva York, founded by a Dominican-national, Porﬁ rio Dominici. The new newspaper would employ Luisa Quintero, one of Puerto Rico’s most renowned journalists, and the likes of Pedro Juan Soto, another Puerto Rican intellectual. El Diario de Nueva York would become instrumental in a campaign to save the life of a Puerto Rican World War II veteran, Jorge Luis Monge. Although the efforts ultimately did not save the life of Monge, the paper gained strong recognition in the Puerto Rican community.

In January of 1949, Luis Muñoz Marín was sworn-in as the fi rst governor of Puerto Rico to be democratically elected. The inauguration was even felt in New York, with both Editors-in- chief of La Prensa and El Diario de Nueva York in attendance. Marín had a previous relationship with La Prensa, after having lived in New York for years and played a key part in the lives of Puerto Rican laborers. La Prensa had even published one of his poems, “Yo soy tu fl auta” (I am your fl ute) in 1919.

In the 1950s, the United States would have to face a war with Upon his election as Bronx Borough President, Hermán Badillo gives Korea. Puerto Rican soldiers became a crucial part of the United thanks to his Puerto Rican community. Credit: EDLP Archive, November 4th, 1965 States army, especially the famed 65th Regiment. The war 36 EL DIARIO/LA PRENSA CELEBRATES 100 YEARS lasted three years, with La Prensa and El Diario de Nueva York reporting news from overseas, which would get worse as the days progressed with the 65th Regiment being accused of disobeying orders. The Regiment would later be granted clemency and were greeted with a grand “ﬁ esta jíbara” in New York. The war ended in July of 1953, with the liberation of a large number of Puerto Rican prisoners of war.

After years of vigorous competition, the two rival newspapers would join together and merge to form El Diario/La Prensa after entrepreneur O. Roy Chalk bought both papers. The ﬁ rst ever issue after the merger was published on April 8th, 1963, and continued to feature certain segments, such as Luisa Quintero’s column “Marginalia”. In the following years after the merger, El Diario/La Prensa would be at the center of great political triumph for the Puerto Rican community. In 1965, Hermán Activists at a Puerto Rican civil rights rally in the 1990s. Badillo was elected Bronx Borough President and Carlos M. Credit: EDLP Archive, circa mid 1990s Ríos was elected councilman. In that same year, the Puerto Rican National Association for Civil Rights was created, which became crucial in the campaign to abolish “Literacy Laws”, an illegal way of impeding Puerto Ricans, as well as other non- English speaking citizens, to vote. With the help of El Diario/La Prensa, these laws were eliminated in 1966.

Puerto Ricans began to excel in New York City outside of politics as well. With the creation of the Fania Record Label in 1964 and the start of the careers of Willie Colón and Héctor Lavoe, there was major promise for the Latin music movement in New York City. One of the many greats to come out of this era was the one and only Tito Puente. Born in Spanish Harlem to Puerto Rican parents, Puente would go on to become a legend in the Latin music industry. Another Puerto Rican great to come A group of Boricua folk singers. out of this era would be José “Chegüí” Torres, ﬁ rst Latino to Credit: EDLP Archive, circa mid 1990s win the Light-Heavyweight Championship in 1965. He would later on become a regular columnist for El Diario/La Prensa, until his death in 2009. Broadway and Hollywood would also witness the talents of Puerto Rican actress Rita Moreno, with her performance of in “West Side Story”.

In the late 1960s, the United States would ﬁ nd itself in the midst of another war, this time in Vietnam. Latino soldiers were being deployed at such high rates, that El Diario/La Prensa became a key component in not only keeping soldiers up to date with news from home, but also in sending messages from families to their soldiers overseas. Majority of the soldiers were of Puerto Rican descent, along with exiled Cuban soldiers and Dominican New Yorkers willing to ﬁ ght against communism.

The beginning of the 1970s started with huge political triumph, after former Bronx Borough President Hermán Badillo would Human rights advocate Richie Pérez (1944-2004), a former Young become the fi rst ever Puerto Rican man to be elected into the Lord and co-founder of the National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights, House of Representatives. He would serve until 1978 and be inspired a generation to take action for political, social, educational, succeeded by Robert Garcia, when he was later appointed as environmental, cultural, and economic justice for Puerto Ricans in New York and in Puerto Rico. Pictured (L-R): Fernando Lescaille, Apolinar deputy mayor of the City. At the end of the decade, the New York Trinidad (1950-2011), Howard Jordan, Richie Pérez, Diana Caraballo, State Senate would see its fi rst Puerto Rican woman elected into and Estela Vásquez. offi ce, Olga Méndez. Credit: Humberto Arellano/EDLP, Circa mid 1990’s 37 EL DIARIO/LA PRENSA CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

The political power of Puerto Ricans in New York City would continue on well into the 1980s and 1990s. With the victory of President Bill Clinton in 1992, it opened the doors for two Latino delegates into the House of Representatives: José Serrano of The Bronx, Nydia Velázquez of Brooklyn. The 1990s would continue to see the progress of Puerto Ricans in politics, with the appointment of Ninfa Segarra as deputy mayor at the hand of Mayor Rudolph Giuliani in 1993 and the appointment of Roberto Ramirez as the president of the Democratic Party in the Bronx in 1996.

The 1990s also saw great losses in the entertainment industry, including salsa legends Frankie Ruíz and Héctor Lavoe, but it also witnessed the emergence of young Puerto Rican-heritage entertainers who would go on to become legends of their own, such as Jennifer Lopez, La India, and Marc Anthony.

Governor Nelson Rockefeller’s re-election campaign reception. Pic- After over 50 years of military practice, the U.S. Navy ﬁ nally tured (L-R): Then-U.S. Congress hopeful Hermán Badillo; former Miss pulled out of Vieques in 2003. The celebration was not only felt Universe Marisol Maralet, the ﬁ rst Puerto Rican woman to win the title; legendary El Diario/La Prensa columnist Luisa Quintero; and former in Puerto Rico, but also in New York City, where El Diario/La Governor Nelson Rockefeller. Prensa played a mayor role in reporting developments and the Credit: EDLP Archive, circa 1970 multiple demonstrations that often included personalities like Rosie Perez, Al Sharpton, Adolfo Carrión Jr., Jose Rivera and Roberto Ramirez, among many others.

In 2009, another triumph for the Puerto Rican community was featured in the pages of El Diario/La Prensa, with the conﬁ rmation of Sonia Sotomayor as the ﬁ rst Hispanic Supreme Court Justice, and the third woman in history appointed to the country’s highest court.

Today in 2013, after 100 years, El Diario/La Prensa still ﬁ nds itself as the “Champion of the Hispanics”. Current Publisher & CEO Rossana Rosado, and Executive Editor Erica González, both Puerto Rican women, have been at the frontline of reporting about the Puerto Rican/Hispanic community in the new century.

To celebrate it’s 100th anniversary, El Diario/La Prensa has launched a series of special events and partnerships that include a middle/high school curriculum, cultural festivals, and an exhibition. The exhibition titled “In the Headlines: Latino New Yorkers 1980-2001”features photographic reproductions, articles, and front pages that document the triumphs and tribulations of the Hispanic community through the lens of the newspaper from the start of the so-called “Decade of Hispanics”to September 11th, 2001. Participating venues include the King Juan Carlos Center at NYU, the Gallery at Hostos Community College, the Center for the Study of Ethnicity and Race (CSER) at Columbia University, and the Medical Science Pavilion and Mary Lasker Building at Columbia University Medical Center.

Que Bonita Parada! News brief on the 1995 National Puerto Rican Day For venue speciﬁ c information, the entire events calendar, Parade. historic timelines, and 100th anniversary new coverage, visit Credit: EDLP Archive, June 12th, 1995 www.eldiariony.com/100.

38 The Institute for the Puerto Rican Hispanic Elderly, Inc. is a citywide, multilingual/ multicultural, multi-service non-profi t organization. The Institute was founded in 1978 to bridge the gap between Hispanic seniors and the resources, entitlements, and benefi ts to which they should have access. The Institute’s mission is to make older adults “golden years” fruitful, peaceful and fulfi lled by directly improving their quality of life. IPR/HE serves over 100,000 Hispanic/minority seniors a year throughout its central offi ce, 11 senior centers and four subsidiaries, including a mental health clinic—Clinica Nueva Esperanza (New Hope Clinic).

We serve in the following ways:

Direct Services to Seniors (Multilingual and multicultural)

The Institute serves as an important resource for non-proﬁ t organizations, government agencies and businesses throughout the Untied States and Puerto Rico by providing technical assistance, training and consultation in areas such as culturally re- sponsive service delivery and access to minority communities. The Institute founded the Minority Aging Defense Council, co-founded the Hispanic AIDS Forum, sponsored the Coalition of Hispanic Service Providers and it is a founding member of Comite Noviembre. • Information and Referral • Nutritional Centers • Entitlement Assistance • Social/Cultural Activities • Case Management • Crime Victims • Advocacy & Service Monitoring • Prevention Services • Counseling Crisis Intervention • Social Services • Leadership Training • Mental Health Services • Employment Training • Housing • Immigration Counseling • Nutrition • Translation Services • Hot Line • Bilingual Citizenship Classes

Suleika Cabrera, IPRHE founder at Three Kings Celebration 39 comité noviembre th 27mes de la Anniversaryherencia puertorriqueña COMITÉ NOVIEMBRE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS PROGRAM

Eighteen Years of Success For the past twenty-seven years, CN, has created and developed programs all geared to the support and enhancement of educational opportunities and leadership development for Puerto Rican youth with a cultural twist. These programs are ﬁ rmly rooted in the belief, that in order to succeed in life, you must pursue a higher education, give back to your community through volunteer efforts and know your cultural ancestral history. Focusing on educational excellence and leadership development is the key to the future of the Puerto Rican community.

In celebration of its tenth anniversary, the CN Scholarship Awards Program (CNSAP) was established. To date, CNSAP has awarded 208 scholarships boasting a 90% college graduation rate since the inception in 1996. The scholarships are for $1,000. The selection process is competitive and documented community service is, key to be selected.

To be eligible for the CN scholarship award, applicants must be of Puerto Rican descent; have a minimum of one full year of community service experience; be enrolled in an accredited college or university by the Fall of the applying year and have a B average or better. The application process includes an application form, an essay, two letters of recommendation, academic transcripts, a short biographical sketch, and a personal interview for ﬁ nalists.

In 2006, to commemorate its 20th anniversary, CN enhanced the Scholarship Program to continue to award the top two scholars $1,000 scholarships each year until graduation. These scholars must maintain a 3.5 grade point average and documented community work within the Puerto Rican community to continue to receive the $1,000 scholarship for the full four years.

Comité Noviembre selects leaders from various sectors of the community who have demonstrated genuine interest in the educational excellence of our youth to serve on the selection committee. Currently, the committee members are: Co-Chairs: Lisa M. Rodriguez, MSW, education and youth advocate, Elba Cabrera, community leader, Lourdes R. Tor- res, Director, Grants Administration & Grants Ofﬁ cer, Grants Ofﬁ ce, Division of Academic Affairs, Hostos Community College, CUNY, and Teresa A. Santiago, Chairperson, Comité Noviembre.

To receive an application please email your information to, lisa M Rodriguez at [email protected], 347- 693-6893. Or visit our website at www.comitenoviembre.org to download a copy of the application in January 2014.

40 2013 Comite Noviembre Scholars

Christin N. Alayon is tion as the highest ranking science and an Americorps volunteer at Jumpstart, a junior at American mathematics program in the nation. Her a national early education organization University, Washing- research, The Prevalence and Negative that serves preschool children in low- ton D.C. majoring in Impact of Body Dysmorphic Disorder in income neighborhoods. She helps them Applied Mathematics. the Adolescent Population consisted of a develop the language and literacy skills With this degree, she behavioral study in which she evaluated needed to enter school ready to succeed. aspires to become an various adolescents in the Westchester This year, she was promoted to a Team Actuary and continue area. Valerie did all this while working Leader position, where she trains a group towards a Masters De- and being on the OHS girls’ basketball of seven corps members on how to work gree in actuarial sciences. She is currently team, which were the NYS Public High with and educate preschool students. She studying abroad at the University of Ex- School champions in Valerie’s senior is will soon be obtaining her Preschool eter in England. At American University year. Valerie takes great joy in all the acts Teacher Certifi cation. For spring she is a member of the community action of community service she has performed break 2013, instead of going to Miami, and social justice group participating in but the one that she has been most infl u- Paris or even home to Puerto Rico, she several projects including working in a enced by has been her work as a peer tu- volunteered for Emerson College’s soup kitchen that feeds the homeless and tor. Helping other students review notes, Alternative Spring Break program and needy as well as reading to children at the understand concepts and strive to reach she traveled to Bioloxi Mississippi to Martin Luther King Library and doing their full academic potential is extremely help victims of Hurricane Katrina and a arts and crafts with children. She also vol- fulfi lling. She tutored Trigonometry, Pre- tornado in Hattiesburg. She along with 10 unteers at the Campus’ Day Care Center. Calculus, US History and Global History. other students rebuilt homes for families She was born in the Bronx and is proud to She also volunteered for a local girls’ who lost their home in Katrina as well as, be a fi rst generation Puerto Rican making basketball camp where she is responsible cleaned and painted a battered women’s her mark. for the care and safety of children ages 5 shelter. In 2010, she was accepted into -9. She has encouraged them to use what the International Leadership Program, a “I am excited to be awarded by Comité they learn in camp in their everyday lives. service-learning organization that took Noviembre because it reinforces the im- Teamwork, commitment and hard work 13 NYC high school students on a service portance of education and helps me to are valuable lessons that the girls learn and leadership excursion to India. This continue my studies. On a personal level, early on in their lives. experience opened her eyes to the world it will help me to achieve a competitive beyond New York City. She learned career, hardly considered for a minor- “I feel honored to be part of a community about new cultures, values, and global ity, and less thought of for a Hispanic that supports one another’s ambitions problems. She was a catechism teacher woman. Receiving this scholarship also and encourages each of us to stride to- and a program leader for Young Girls allows me to be one step closer to my edu- ward their full potential.” Group for All Saints Church in Brooklyn, cational goal as an Actuary and educated an academic tutor for her middle school. Puerto Rican woman in this country. Co- Amanda Lauren mité Noviembre opens future opportuni- Cordero is in her “I am exceedingly proud to have been ties in the lives of Puerto Rican/ Hispanic junior year at Emerson selected as one of the 2013 Comité women and I am hoping to be an en- College in Boston, Noviembre scholarship recipients. This couragement for other Hispanic women MA, majoring in scholarship will support my journalism dreaming to reach their goals. Thanks Journalism with a education at Emerson College in Boston; Comité Noviembre for helping me and the minor in Business. an education that I hope to use in sharing Hispanic/Puerto Rican community.” She is a dreamer, a our Puerto Rican stories with the world. thinker and a hard I am honored that the committee selected Valerie Andujar is a worker and hopeful these qualities will me to embody its values and I will strive freshman at the Universi- lead to a successful career. She interned to continue representing La Mujer Bo- ty of Buffalo majoring in for the Greenpoint Gazette newspaper ricua with dignity and pride.” Pre-Law. She has joined in Brooklyn, this past summer where the University’s Mock she was given the opportunity to be a Clarissa Garcia is a Trial Team and will be reporter in her own neighborhoods of freshman at American competing throughout Williamsburg and Greenpoint. This University in Wash- the region. She is a dedi- semester, she began working as an ington DC majoring cated student, passionate executive producer for WEBN TV in Communications, athlete and active member of society. At Boston, the college radio station. As a Legal Institutions, Ossining High School she was elected by child, Amanda was inspired by Soledad Economics and Gov- her peers to be class Vice President and O’Brien’s Black in America and Latino in ernment (CLEG) with Treasurer and was selected to participate America series on CNN and her ultimate a minor in Business as a delegate in the Model United Nations goal is to make documentaries. Amanda Administration. For four years, Clarissa program. She has been a material par- continues to do her volunteer work in was a member of the Model United Na- ticipant and leader of the OHS esteemed Boston, where she serves a largely Latino tions, MUN, where she attended various Science Research program which was and African-American community. For conferences and interacted with students recently ranked by the INTEL Corpora- the last two years, she has worked as from around the world including Puerto 41 that serviced a large Puerto Rican com- to bring people together, to work in col- 2013 CN Scholars munity. Jonathan and his classmates set laboration to achieve the goal at hand. (continued) up food lines and distributed necessary She is a selfl ess and inspiring young items to the residents. Jonathan states, woman. Through her volunteer work “Seeing people in such distress and being over the years with Comité Noviembre, Rico. As a MUN, Clarissa addressed po- able to help them was a humbling experi- as well as with Holy Cross Church where litical and social issues of the country she ence and it showed me that I should be she has taught religious instruction to fi rst was assigned and represented the interests extremely grateful for what I have.” This graders preparing for Holy Communion in debates and forums and tried to come experience has strengthened Jonathan’s and has been an altar server for the past up with resolutions to these global issues. future commitment to service. eight years, Nicole is building commu- Clarissa was selected to be a member of nity and making a difference early on in the Ken Allen Memorial Chapter of the “I am extremely happy to be receiving the her life. She was also a senior mentor to National Honor Society where she partic- Comite Noviembre scholarship award; it freshmen at her high school, played soft- ipated in various community service proj- truly means the world to me. Being recog- ball for 4 years and tennis for 3 years and ects. Additionally, she volunteered as a nized by my people is a huge honor and worked as a cashier at Key Food without peer tutor/mentor in advanced placement I appreciate it deeply. This award will skipping a beat and maintaining her high world history course. Her concern for her help me pay off the expense of my fl ight academic grades. fellow students and desire to help them school, but this scholarship means so succeed speaks volumes about Clarissa’s much more to me than the monetary value “It’s an honor and a privilege to be a strength of character and her sense of re- of the award. It symbolizes our unity as a Comité Noviembre Scholar. This award sponsibility in giving back to her com- people, it shows to me that our culture is allows me to further my education in as munity. In 2012, she volunteered for the strong and we always look to help each many ways possible. I’m not only grate- political campaign of Clyde Williams for other out. We learn from each other and ful to be a Comité Noviembre scholar, I’m Congress representing the 13th congres- together we look towards the future, and also grateful to be a part of the Comité sional district of upper Manhattan and the I believe the future is a very promising Noviembre family. western Bronx. She felt it was a great op- one.” portunity to campaign of a political can- Samdra L. Rodriguez didate and experience the dynamics of a Nicole M. Perez is a Pabón is a sophomore political race. Clarissa participated in the freshman at Penn State at Rutgers University Angelo del Toro Puerto Rican Hispanic University in Abing- and as long as she can Youth Leadership Institute ton, PA, pursuing a remember commu- degree in Broadcast nity service has been a “It brings me much honor to be one of Journalism. Since main priority in her life. the many recipients of this scholarship. It arriving at Penn State During her high school only goes to show that there are respect- University she has years she was president of the Counselor able individuals out there who have the joined the Latino Stu- Aids a group of students that served as in- faith and confi dence that I will contribute dent Organization (LSO) on campus and struments of help, guidance to other stu- to and be an example for my Puerto Rican is continuing her volunteer work. Nicole dents in times of hardship both academi- people, and for the Latino community. wants to become the fi rst Latina sports cally and personally. She was president Therefore, my only goal is to continue do- broadcaster on a major network and she to the National Beta Club an organization ing just that.” has done her homework she is an expert of academically profi cient students with a on MLB and NFL player’s statistics. Ear- passion for community service. Through Jonathan Iglesias is a ly on Nicole understood the importance of this organization she volunteered at senior freshman at Vaughn Col- knowing who she is and where she comes citizens centers on the weekend as well lege of Aeronautics and from. She is a Puerto Rican and Guya- as cleaned beaches from coast to coast in Technology majoring in nese young woman proud of her multi- Puerto Rico. She also headed and volun- fl ight operations and as- cultural identity. She is a well rounded teered at an animal rescue organization pires to become an airline student concerned with the issues of her that provided homes, food and monetary transport pilot. Jonathan time. Nicole has participated each year help for abused animals. Samdra believes has always been fascinat- in CN’s Day of Community Service and that community service is not only about ed with Jet Liner gliding Social Responsibility – food drive and a few hours, community service is a life over his head. Jonathan would stare and distribution which takes place each year time of joy. admire the beauty and grace of the plane the Sunday before Thanksgiving, our fl oating into the blue skies. Jonathan knew kick-off event where CN honors the un- “I am very thankful and content to be that aviation was his calling. Jonathan is sung heroes of the community and CN’s awarded with such and outstanding the recipient of the Residential Leader annual Artisans Fair and Exhibit where it scholarship. This represents yet another scholarship as well as a Founder’s schol- highlight Puerto Rican artisans. Nicole achievement for a Puerto Rican student arship from Vaughn College of Aeronau- has been instrumental in the execution who only wants to make her island proud. tics and Technology. Jonathan’s other of these events by setting up and break- This scholarship will help pay for my edu- calling of Giving Back/Service centered ing down these events, by understanding cation and hence my future. Thank you.” during the aftermath of Hurricane San- the importance of her presence, input and dy. Jonathan and his school Newburgh contribution in the development of these Matthew Stuck is a freshman at Farming- Free Academy organized to address the events. Nicole takes a leadership role and dale State College of New York. At the distressed community of Far Rockaway. manages people twice her age with great age of 5 he began to play piano and has Outreach was focused at a local church ease and confi dence. She has the ability shared his talent with his church commu- 42 my education in aviation as I pursue my Vincent Villafañe, Jr. 2013 CN Scholars degree at Farmingdale College. This is is a freshman at The (continued) the only scholarship I have been granted College of Staten Is- and certainly came as a pleasant surprise land in Staten Island after the many applications submitted, NY and a published nity for many years as school fi nishing in June and months later photographer. For thir- a member of the Wor- receiving the reward letter. Thank you.” teen years at his pho- ship Ministry. He was tographer father’s side raised in a bilingual Gabriella Velazquez is a freshman at he has covered the Na- Pentecostal Assem- SUNY Cortland major- tional Puerto Rican Day Parade. Despite blies of God Church in ing in Communications his young age, his father gave him a cam- Sleepy Hollow. God with a concentration in era to capture images of his culture and is very much an active public relations. She is encouraged him to be curious. This has part of his daily life; at- currently a member of led to Vincent’s photographs being pub- tending, participating and being actively the sport and diversity lished in magazines and newspapers in involved is pivotal in his life. He has club. Gabriella has re- New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. served as a Royal Ranger (Christian boys ceived the Ana Frasca program) assistant and teacher; Vacation Memorial scholarship From the age of six he has participated Bible School (done annually as commu- and her high school’s in the extreme sport of motocross always nity outreach) teacher for two years, Sun- PTA scholarship. Gabriella states, “Help- proudly represented Puerto Rico in races. day School substitute as needed (Mid- ing people is in my blood.” While attend- Three years ago, he became part of the dler boys), Sound Ministry for Worship ing White Plains High School, Gabriella Goya Foods Motocross Racing Team rep- Ministry in 2007 before becoming one of volunteered at the annual Abilis Walk to resenting Puerto Rico in national and in- the lead keyboard players in 2009, Mid- raise funds for people with developmen- ternational competitions from New York night Run (program to feed the homeless tal disabilities. At the Abilis Walk, Ga- to the Dominican Republic. Vincent’s in NYC) volunteer, work in church Ad- briella interacted with children that face passion however is dancing. He is an ministration supporting and facilitating many challenges in their young lives. Ga- accomplished dancer and volunteers his as needed. He played football all four briella knew that service will be a major time teaching different dance styles in a years in high school as a defensive line- part of her life. Gabriella also managed dance group in Staten Island. He is proud backer and graduated from Ossining High her high school’s BOYS’ swimming and to be part of a family group of Pleneros School with an Advanced Regents Diplo- diving team. She is very passionate about who carry the Puerto Rican Christmas tra- ma. During the past two summers he has swimming and very happy to manage the ditions of parrandas singing aguinaldos. interned at a hangar at the Westchester boys’ swim team for 13 weeks. Whether Vincent is an active member of the Brook- County Airport assisting the Director of it was making rosters or teaching new- lyn Caribe Leo’s Club, a youth program Flight Training. This internship is just a comers how to swim butterfl y, Gabriella from Lions Club International, where he step closer to achieving his dreams and works extremely hard while also having serves as its Treasurer and performs civic goals to one day, be a pilot. fun. and community service. At the Filomeno Family Awards Foundation, Inc., Vincent “It is a privilege and honor to have been “I would like to thank the Comité Noviem- has volunteered his time for sixteen years selected by the Comite Noviembre Schol- bre scholarship committee for this amaz- developing and promoting events to raise arship Committee for this scholarship. ing opportunity. I am very grateful for the funds for the organization and as their My mother has worked to ensure that we scholarship and it will make a huge con- photographer. The Foundation provides incorporate her Puerto Rican heritage in tribution to my continuing education. My students with funding, educational tools our daily lives, so it will become a part of family and I are incredibly appreciative and the mentoring and recognition they our lives (food, culture, music, language, and I know this scholarship will certainly need to stay in school. Vincent has been etc.). Being a recipient of this scholar- help me accomplish my goal of eventually instrumental in the carry on Foundation’s ship from the Comite Noviembre is a trib- becoming a successful professional in the mission. ute to her contribution to the lives of her business world. I’m extremely proud to be children; that I’m sure makes her proud. a 2013 Comité Noviembre Scholar.” “I feel proud and honored to have re- This money will go towards furthering ceived such a prestigious award, not only because of the value, but also for the pride I have in our great Puerto Rican heritage. I will this scholarship to further my studies with either a laptop for my research or for a car to make my commute to and from college faster and easier.”

43 National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights Puerto Ricans in the U.S: 100 Years and Counting United for Progress/Aqui Estamos - Unidos Progresamos

In 1981, Puerto Rican activists from around the country including the late Richie Perez, a longtime activist and leader in the struggle for global human rights, founded the National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights (NCPRR). For more than 20 years the NCPRR engaged in grassroots campaigns in many cities, including a march on Washington D.C.

The NCPRR is a power resource that was created by the Puerto Rican people’s grassroots struggle - it has history, legitimacy and weight. Hundreds of thousands of volunteer hours, the rejecting of government funding, the rejecting of the single, charismatic male leadership model; the promotion of women and young leadership (women must be at least half of all leadership bodies within the organization), the successful uniting of previously disconnected community forces; the emphasis on learning to use all tactics and avoid marginalization (community education, working the media, voter mobilization, coalition building, lobbying, litigation, and direct/action); the groundbreaking work around bilingual education, environmental justice, the right to representation, holding elected ofﬁ cials accountable, racial justice, against police brutality and Puerto Rico’s right to self-determination are part of our legacy.

A reafﬁ rmation of the NCPRR is needed at this point in our history because there is a lack of signiﬁ cant Puerto Rican voices or representation on the national agenda on issues like bilingual education, the national immigration debate, Puerto Rico Self-Determination, Post-Vieques clean-up, No Child Left Behind, Voting Rights & Political Education, Social Discrimination, Economic Justice, Police Brutality, Health Care Reform and the release of the remaining PR Political Prisoners.

During the weekend of October 8 – 10, 2011 the NCPRR held its ninth national convention in Miami, Florida

The convention was attended by over 200 people representing Puerto Rico and ten states including Ohio, Illi- nois, New York and Pennsylvania. This historical conference represents a historical turning point for NCPRR. The panels, workshops and plenary sessions addressed how to:

• Help NCPRR determine what works in 2011 and beyond in order to address the many challenges facing the Puerto Rican people. • Learn from and build on the experiences of different cities as well as towns across the country where Puerto Ricans live. • Effectively utilize the history, name, recognition and credibility of the NCPRR to affect social change. • Address the issue of organizational life-support and ﬁ nancial stability to make the NCPRR viable in the new century.

The intergenerational reﬂ ection, interaction and a sharing of experiences during the convention helped determine how NCPRR will identify itself as the continuation of a proud organizational tradition while simultaneously serving as an effective organizational tool and asset for the next generation of leadership in our communities across the country. Additionally it will provide a platform to follow as well as methods for the direct engagement of the next generation of community leaders and uniﬁ ed efforts for making positive social change into the future.

For more information about the National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights or to become a member contact: The National Congress For Puerto Rican Rights - www.puertoricanrights.com

44 THE RICHIE PÉREZ SCHOLARSHIP FOR PEACE & JUSTICE AWARD

PURPOSE In 2004, the Puerto Rican community lost an ally, advocate, community leader and urban warrior. Richie Pérez was a beloved activist and leader in the ﬁ ght for social justice and human rights. He brought integrity, zeal and unity to many causes to which he was committed. These included the struggle for racial justice and against police brutality, Puerto Rican independence and universal human rights. As a former Young Lord and founding member of the National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights, Richie was our inspiration and conscience. Richie wrote and lectured extensively on the Puerto Rican urban experience and as a professor in the CUNY system taught classes in mass media, US social policy and the history of the labor and civil rights movements. Richie believed greatly in the power and potential of young people to create social change. He personally mentored many youth and believed that the torch of the movement for justice had to be passed on to the next generation.

In his memory, Comité Noviembre has established the Richie Pérez Scholarship for Peace and Justice. The award will recognize Puerto Rican young people for their commitment, activism and achievements in any of the areas of human rights and social justice. This annual award will both promote the advancement of new leaders in the movement for peace and justice, and also invest in their continued growth by providing support for their ongoing education and political development The scholarship winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. The application form will be ready for distribution and posted on Comité Noviembre’s website, www.comitenoviembre.org, in January. To date CN has awarded 11 scholarships.

ELIGIBILTY • Applicants must Be of Puerto Rican descent • Document a minimum of one-year active participation and organizing work in a social justice or human rights issue. • Be enrolled in an accredited college or university by the fall of each year or at the time of the scholarship award. • Be between the ages of 17 and 25.

GUIDELINES • A completed application package must include an application form, essay, two letters of recommendation and a short biographical sketch. All items must be submitted in one package. • Letters of recommendation must be from community members who personally know their work, leadership and commitment to social justice and human rights causes. • Application package must be received or post marked by the deadline dated indicated. • Application package received or post marked after the deadline date will be disqualifi ed. • Finalist will be notifi ed in a timely manner. • A mandatory personal interview will be conducted by the scholarship committee. Finalist will be notifi ed of the interview at least one week in advance. Finalist will not be considered if he/she does not show-up for interview. Other ar- rangements will be made for fi nalist away at college. • Recipients of the Richie Perez Scholarship Award will be disqualifi ed should any of the following conditions occur: (1) recipient provides false information on application (2) recipients is not en rolled in an accredited college or university by the fall or at the time of the award (3) recipient is not of Puerto Rican descent • Scholarship payment will be made by Comité Noviembre upon recipient of offi cial documentation from college Regis- trar or Bursar’s Offi ce.

Please contact: Martha Laureano, (917) 803-2367 or Lisa Rodriguez at 347-693-6893 or email lisa- [email protected], if you have any questions or to receive an application form. You can also visit our website at www.comitenoviembre.org

45 RICHIE PEREZ SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Annelise Rivera del Rio is a freshman at Syracuse University, in Syracuse, New York. She is an identical twin born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico and raised in Miami, Florida. She is a Duke Talent Identiﬁ cation Program alumnus and a Next Generation Fund scholar. Both programs are designed to help students who show intellectual promise and ﬁ nancial need succeed in the world of academia and as aspiring future professionals.

Annelise has volunteered as an art educator and caretaker for Kids Adventure Learning Center for children ages 6 -12 in Miami, Florida, a tutor for underprivileged Hispanic youth (Puerto Rican, Cuban and Costa Rican), at Hands-On-Miami, a camp counselor for Redeemer Church’s annual Vacation Bible School for children ages 3 – 9, but the volunteer work that has left a profound impact on her life has been as a human rights activist or the Frederick Douglas Foundation Student Board of Advisors for the Abolition of Human Trafﬁ cking and Modern Slavery.

When she heard the mournful story of Alexandra Del Castillo a girl smuggled out of Mexico and transported to North Carolina where she was forced to provide sex to a half dozen men a day, she knew that she had to get involved and do something to stop this cruelty. She felt that she had to do something about this situation, anything but do nothing. She wanted to be the voice for those girls that didn’t have one. She knew she could make a difference in a young woman’s life by raising her voice and declaring war on modern slavery. So she was compelled to act.

What most impacted Annelise, was when she became aware through her research that Puerto Rico has a very lucrative and problematic human trafﬁ cking market. As stated in a 2010 investigation entitled: Trafﬁ cking in Puerto Rico: An Invisible Challenge,” carried out by Dr. César Rey, Sociologist and President of the Board of the Ricky Marin Foundation:

“Puerto Rico is a destination for sex tourism and a transit point for women and children from other Caribbean islands and from the interior of the Island for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Cases have also been reported of foreigners, both men and women, who are traffi cked into Puerto Rico for labor exploitation. Besides transitional traffi cking, domestic traffi cking of Puerto Rican children seems to be a common occurrence in the country. Some of the activities for which minors are used include: the distribution and sale of drugs, work as drug runners, prostitution, pornography, and other illegal activities.” To learn more, please visit this website: http:www.rickymarinfoundation. org/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/RMF_English_fi nal.pdf

As a member of the student advisory board for the Foundation she is able to assist 49 motivated high school students across the country in rallying together to raise awareness of human traffi cking worldwide and help prevent it. A recent campaign to petition state representatives resulted in the passage of House Bill 7049 in an effort to curb human traffi cking in the state of Florida and raised awareness in Congress. Annalise was instrumental in reaching out to state representatives, congress and senate members and requesting that they join the fi ght to end human traffi cking.

Using social media, Annelise and students across the nited States keep in contact through emails and Facebook. Every week the dedicate their time to speaking with survivors of human traffi cking, their family members and/or organizations like The Ricky Martin Foundation, Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Traffi cking and The Emancipation Network who share their mission. Additionally, she continues her advocacy work writing letters to communicate the goals of the organization as well as educating themselves and others on the recent developments. The Student Board’s goal was and is to reach out to legislators to stop websites like Backpage.com and other such organizations from providing sex traffi cking services that exploit and abuse women and children. With their legislation victories like the passage of House 7049 in the State of Florida and the support of legislators like US Senators Joe Liberman, Marco Rubio and John Boozman, they are hard at work and getting closer to achieving their goals.

Because education of the community plays a pivotal role in the abolition of human trafﬁ cking, Annelise through the student board and the FDFF has made it a priority to educate young men, strengthen young women and reach out to all others through service-learning projects like the 100-days curriculum which provides a free service-learning curriculum, to secondary schools willing to take on the issue. She tries to engage Hispanic youth since statistically they are more than likely to participate and endorse human trafﬁ cking. Raising awareness and spreading the word is the best form of prevention.

“Without the Frederick Douglas Foundation Student Board of Advisors for the Abolition of Human Traffi cking and Modern Slavery, I wouldn’t have known how to protect myself and others, from the dangers of the unknown world. I have learned to enjoy my freedoms because, unfortunately, many out there still don’t have them. Most importantly, I learned that my voice, my words, my actions can make a difference in the lives of others, Puerto Rican and others. Many complex factors contribute to the dehumanizing crime of human traffi cking, but now we see that human traffi cking, once regarded as a phenomenon limited to the Pacifi c or Central Europe, exists on our Island (and the US). This is a problem that needs solving, and I feel that I am helping in working to reach the solution.”

“Being a Richie Perez Scholar means so much to me because it means that I am doing something worthwhile, that I can make a difference in the Puerto Rican community and that others believe in me. It means I can come back to school for another semester and that I can continue to succeed.”

Hostos Community College is an educational agent for change, transforming and improving the quality of life in the South Bronx and neighboring communities since 1968. Hostos serves as a gateway to intellectual growth and socioeconomic mobility, and a point of departure for lifelong learning, success in professional careers, and transfer to advanced higher education programs. The College’s unique “student success coach” program, which partners students with individual guidance, is emblematic of the premier emphasis on student support and services. Hostos offers 29 associate degree programs and 5 certificate programs that facilitate easy transfer to The City University of New York (CUNY) four-year colleges or baccalaureate studies at other institutions. The College has an award-winning Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Development that offers professional development courses and certificate-bearing workforce training programs. Hostos Community College is part of CUNY, the nation’s leading urban public university serving more than 480,000 students at 24 colleges.

2012-2013 Highlights

THE BIG EVENT: A Day of Community Service—April 22, 2013 was Hostos Community College’s official 45th birthday, so on that day the Hostos family sponsored The BIG EVENT as a way of giving back to the community that helped to create the college and has supported it for four and a half decades. The staff of the President’s Office and the College’s Student Diplomats coordinated this initiative, in which 450 members of the Hostos family worked as volunteers at various public institutions and nonprofit organizations in the vicinity of the campus, including Mill Pond Park, Lincoln Hospital, P.S. 18, La Finca del Sur, and Friends of Brook Park.

45th Anniversary Gala—Held on May 3, 2013, this was the culminating event in our yearlong celebration of Hostos’ first four and a half decades. We raised over $500,000, the largest amount from a single event in the College’s history. The honorees were Merryl H. Tisch, Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents; Tonio Burgos, Founder and CEO of Tonio Burgos and Associates; Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees; Famous Famiglia (Famiglia-DeBartolo, LLC); and Wally Edgecombe, Founder and Director Emeritus of the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture. Entertainment was provided by the incomparable Danny Rivera, “The National Voice of Puerto Rico.”

Edinburgh Festival Fringe—In August of 2013, the Hostos Repertory Company was the only theatrical troupe from a community college performing at the prestigious Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland. The play they presented was Rough Magic, a wildly imaginative fantasy by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa that conjures a magical meta-universe in which two New Yorkers must conquer avatars from Greek mythology and the plays of Shakespeare to save the world from destruction. In order to raise funds for the cast’s transportation, the Hostos Foundation launched its first text-to pledge initiative during the 45th Anniversary Gala. Thanks to the enthusiastic response, these contributions helped us to surpass our goal of $40,000, thereby ensuring that the Edinburg trip would take place as planned.

National Science Foundation Grants— Professor Rees Shad of our Media Design Program was instrumental in securing a $610,135 grant from the National Science Foundation for “Designing Future for Games: Games for Multi-Media.” He and Professor Catherine Lewis developed this program to engage media students more thoroughly with science and mathematics. Hostos was also awarded $229,079 from the “STEM Educators Expansion Directive” (Project SEED) initiative of the National Science Foundation‘s Robert Noyce Capacity Building Project. Professor Sarah Church, Principal Investigator for the SEED initiative, undertook this project to recruit and cultivate candidates for the STEM fields from the populations served by Hostos.

Hostos Heritage Lecture Series—In February 2013, the College introduced this initiative that brings important contributors to American Culture to our campus. The first three speakers were the Honorable Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, Pulitzer Prize and Macarthur “Genius” Award-winning author Junot Díaz, and television journalist and author Cheryl Wills.

HACU Award—In October 2012, Hostos received the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Outstanding Member Award at the association’s 26th Annual Conference in Washington, DC. HACU’s Governing Board established this national award to recognize and honor extraordinary efforts by institutions that have excelled in advancing the mission and goals of the association. President Matos Rodríguez was also appointed to the association’s Governing Board during the conference on this occasion.

HOSTOS IS PROUD TO BE A MEMBER AGENCY OF COMITÉ NOVIEMBRE Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, Ph.D., President Lourdes R. Torres, Comité Noviembre Representative Eugenio María de Hostos Community College of CUNY ▪ 500 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY10451 www.hostos.cuny.edu

47 comité noviembre th 27mes de la Anniversaryherencia puertorriqueña Seventh Annual Artisans Fair & Exhibit

For the past seven years, CN has invited artisans from throughout the US and Puerto Rico to participate in this Fair. The number of participating artisans averages 55. This is the largest Puerto Rican artisan fair outside of Puerto Rico and the largest in the US. Comite Noviembre has transformed Hostos Community College into a typical Puerto Rican plaza with a fountain, palm trees, artists, sculptors, vejigante mask makers promoting and selling their wares while musical and cultural acts entertained. Each year, CN conducts workshops for children and adults, like mask making, the history of the three kings’ celebration, Taíno storytelling in order to make sure that our youth learn about our culture. The late Ibrahim Gonzalez with Chef Julio Rodriguez at the fair. This year we are continuing with this tradition and introduced Comite Noviembre’s First Annual Puerto Rican Author’s Book Expo. We invited some of the ﬁ nest Puerto Rican writer’s in NY to introduce and sell their books. This event was coordinated by Sery Colón. In 2013 the event is coordinated by poet/ performance artist Maria Aponte.

The Comite Noviembre Puerto Rican Artisan Fair is produced by the CN Artisan Fair Committee composed of: Teresa Santiago, co-chair; Luis Cordero Santoni, co-chair; Olga Ayala, Alicia Rodriguez, Wally Edgecombe and Sery Colón members.

This year we were saddened by the loss of one of the fair participants, Lo Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad Award recipient and Comite Noviembre supporter Ibrahim Gonzalez. We wish his family our deepest sympathy. Our community has lost a valuable member.

48 Seventh Annual Artisans Fair & Exhibit Photos by Ana Alicea

49 Puerto The Book Expo was establishe in 2012 in order to showcase the many talented Puerto Rican writers in the NY area. We always get authors who partici- Rican pate in the artisan fair and so we decided to create an event just for the lovers of Puerto Rican literature and the authors. This proved to be a great success Authors because the emphasis in this event is to encourage the interaction between the author and the reader. There is still a literary movement by Puerto Rican writ- Book Expo ers. We also conducted an open mic poetry/book presentation. Sery Colón Photos by Ana Alicea volunteered to coordinate this ﬁ rst Book Expo.

50 dedicated to the preservation and promotion of puerto rican arts and culture By Luis Cordero The Puerto Rican Institute for the Development of the Arts, P.R.I.D.A. was founded to help address the predicament faced by many Puerto Rican artists and artisans. That predicament: securing recognition, fi nding spaces to perform and exhibit, venues where work can be sold, and securing funding in support of these activities are the issues PRIDA addresses. 2013 marks the 8th year of Comité Noviembre’s Puerto Rican Artisan Fair and Exhibit. Throughout these years Comité Noviembre has showcased many of our Puerto Rican crafters and provided them with an opportunity to share their art with the public. At the same time this fair has renewed interest in Puerto Rican arts and crafts. Out of this renewed interest was born the Puerto Rican Institute for the Development of the Arts, P.R.I.D.A. PRIDA members at the 116th Street Festival, June 8, 2013 PRIDA was organized to support the renewal of the Puerto Rican arts and crafts movement born in the New artists can fi nd the information they need to grow their York Puerto Rican community. Previously we had a music businesses and to continue offering their creative talents movement out of which salsa was born and a Nuyorican to our community. literary movement whose epicenter was the Nuyorican PRIDA was created for all Puerto Rican artists not just Poets Cafe in the Lower East Side. Now we have a renewal artisans. We have artists in the fi eld of visual arts, literature, of interest in arts and crafts by Puerto Rican artists and the performing arts, etc. We will feature programs to help artisans. painters, photographers, and fi lmmakers exhibit their Who is PRIDA? work; crafters get to venues to sell their crafts; authors and poets publish, distribute and sell their books; musicians, PRIDA was founded by Luis Cordero, Olga Ayala actors and poets to perform their work. and Lourdes (Lulu) Garcia with Comite Noviembre’s chairperson, Teresa Santiago. We recognized the we need There are many cultural events taking place throughout to continue this tradition of the Puerto Rican Artisan Fair. the city. We are invited by organizers to set up and sell our PRIDA will assure that this fair will continue to take crafts. But there are events that charge a “setting up” fee. place and just as importantly, create an organization to PRIDA can often negotiate a more reasonable fee for their provide essential services for the continuing growth of the members. This is one of the benefi ts of being a member emerging Puerto Rican artists. of an organization; it increases your bargaining power. For example, we have successfully negotiated reduced We know that Puerto Rican artists are increasing in number fees to artisans that participate in the Loisaida Festival and are a signifi cant part of the artistic and cultural life every Memorial Day weekend in May, in the 111th Street in New York and other cities. Yet, we receive little or no Stickball Festival in July in East Harlem. In the 116th support needed to develop as artists. Many times, we fi nd Street Festival, on the day before the National Puerto Rican ourselves struggling to make ends meet or juggling our Day Parade, we get our spaces free of charge, thanks to the personal lives and our artistic endeavors. Abrazo Fraternal del Barrio! Soon after PRIDA was born we launched a website, To implement one of our goals, increasing the locations www.PRIDA.org, with the aim of providing a site where for the sale of crafts created by Puerto Rican artists, we 51 PRIDA - Promotion of Puerto Rican Artists (continued) have developed a relationship with El Museo del Barrio and we are welcome to set up our tables and sell at their events. We will soon be submitting our work for sale at the Museo’s gift shop. Artists Create Jobs! We have also been supportive of the initiative by Puerto Rican Intercultural Drama Ensemble (PRIDE) to create a Theater District in East Harlem. This initiative by PRIDA member and founder of PRIDE, Eugene Rodriguez proposes that there are several theaters in the area which are not open or are underused. Making them available to theater companies to operate them will be a great economic benefi t to the community by bringing tourists and theater goers to the neighborhood while at the same time providing jobs for artists. As part of this Theater District initiative we partnered with several East Harlem artists who have been shut out of the PRIDA Artists Market at the Muevete Youth Conference Julia de Burgos Latino Cultural Center. PRIDA joined the in the Bronx in April 2013. initiative of PRIDE and also joined Virtual Boricua.org and Agueybana Productions to demand an explanation as to what Membership is happening with the Community Room and Theater at the Julia de Burgos Center that have been closed since January PRIDA is open all Puerto Rican artists. We have two paid of 2012. We encounter artists looking for places to sell or membership levels: Full Member level, who pay $75 per perform or create art and in the middle of a Puerto Rican year and are entitled to all kinds of benefi ts and Supporting community we have many places that were built for them Member levels for those who are not artists but support our but these places are closed or underused. We were successful mission. In addition, we have a Free Member level for anyone in getting answers from the City and in fact we think we who supports the establishment of PRIDA. If you are an moved the process forward by making our presence felt artist and would like to join PRIDA please go to our website with a guerrilla theater action in front of the Julia de Burgos WWW.PRIDA.ORG and click on the ‘membership’ tab. which was well publicized. Goals Artists on the Move 1. Add venues and shops who offer your artwork for sale Since its founding under the sponsorship of Comite 2. Infl uence artistic venues (museums and galleries) to Noviembre, PRIDA members have set up their Artists showcase the work we produce Market at many events throughout the city: 3. Become a well informed source for cultural events • Three Kings Celebration at El Maestro Cultural and 4. Conduct workshops in different disciplines for the Educational Center (January 2013) artists and the public • El Museo del Barrio’s Super Sabado event series on the Third Saturday of the month (March, April, May) What can PRIDA do for artists? • Bronx Museum of the Arts – First Friday series (April, 1. PRIDA will establish relations with agencies that are May, June) looking for artistic programs, workshops, exhibitions • Muevete Youth Conference (June) 2. Keep artists informed about events and opportunities • Festival Betances in Boston, MA (July 2013) through a member’s newsletter, website and/or email • Passages Group Exhibition (October) bulletins But PRIDA also supports other organizations raise funds to 3. Inform artists about the laws and other matters that carry out their programs. Our Artists Market helped raise affect an artist’s livelihood funds for El Maestro Cultural Center in the Bronx. PRIDA 4. Produce our own arts events members also donate their artwork for fundraising events 5. Establish cooperation with likeminded groups in the like silent auctions. We’ve done this for Comité Noviembre U.S and PR and La Casa de la Herencia Cultural Puertorriqueña. 6. Share information about monies and opportunities available to artists from foundations and agencies 52 HISTORY ASPIRA was founded in New York City in 1961 by Dra. Antonia Pantoja to com- bat the exorbitant dropout rate among Puerto Rican high school youth and became incorporated in New York State on May 24th, 1965. In 1968, ASPIRA of America (today known as the ASPIRA Association now based in Washington, D.C.) was created. Since then, the ASPIRA movement has grown and established additional SASPIRA associate offi ces in Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Pennsyl- vania and Puerto Rico. MISSION To foster the social advancement of the Puerto Rican/Latino community by supporting its youth in the pursuit of educational excellence through leadership development activities and programs that emphasizes commitment to the community and pride in the Puerto Rican/Latino culture. VISION STATEMENT To be the premier Latino youth-serving organization in New York, to the 38%, roughly 1.1 million New York City public school students who are Latino, aspire to improve their lives and community by exercising their leadership skills and by achieving educational excellence. ABOUT ASPIRA OF NEW YORK, INC. ASPIRA of New York, Inc. serves over 8,000 Latino youth and families annually in the areas of youth development, educational achievement, leadership and parent engagement. ASPIRA’s current menu of program services, incorporate both in-school and after school programs with over 85% of all services being delivered on school grounds. These programs and services include: • Over 25 ASPIRA leadership clubs in High Schools • Drop-out prevention and attendance improvement services in high schools and middle school • SAT preparation courses • College counseling and other advisement services • 21st Century Community Learning Centers • After School neighborhood based services in the Mott Haven and Kingsbridge sections of the Bronx • ASPIRA volunteer Initiative Program which links corporate and individual volunteers as mentors androle models for ASPIRA Youth • In recent years ASPIRA of New York, Inc. has become active in the arena of small school reform resulting in the creation of: • The Marble Hill School for International Studies, a small college-preparatory high school focusing on global awareness and language acquisition. • The Bronx Studio School for Writers and Artists, a small 6th — 12th grade combined middle & senior high school located in the heart of the South Bronx ASPIRA of New York is committed to: • Effectively engaging Latino youth and their families. • Collaborating with organizations that affect the lives of young people in a positive way. • Seeking to positively change attitudes among young people and between youth and adults. • Preparing young people to be leaders and decision makers in all aspects of their lives. • Working to infl uence policies and practices that refl ect the aspirations and contributions of young people as full valued members of the communities they live in and of society at large.

ASPIRA OF NEW YORK, INC. 520 Eighth Avenue, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10018 (212) 564-6880, (212) 564-7152 (f), www.nyaspira.org Mark Gonzalez, Executive Director [email protected]

ASPIRA: “to aspire”

53 COMITÉ NOVIEMBRE mes de la herencia puertorriqueña 18TH ANNUAL DAY OF COMMUNITY SERVICE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2013 11AM TO 4PM

El Museo del Barrio In the Bronx 1230 Fifth Avenue, NYC, 2nd Floor James Monroe/IPRHE Senior Center 1776 Story Ave, Bronx, NY La Clinical del Barrio 413 E 120th Street, NYC In Queens Elmhurst Jackson Heights IPRHE Senior Center In Brooklyn - TBD 75-01 Broadway, Elmhurst, NY

FOOD DRIVE - NON-PERISHABLE FOODS ITEMS NEEDED TO CREATE A TYPICAL PUERTO RICAN THANKSGIVING MEAL

RICE (CORN, GREEN BEANS MIXED) CRACKERS GANDULES 5LB BAG OF POTATOES COOKIES CANNED HAMS MAYONNAISE PERMALOT MILK BROWN SUGAR/MAPLE SYRUP CRANBERRY SAUCE SODA CLOVES GRAVY COFFEE CANNED SLICED PINEAPPLES STUFFING (BOX) SUGAR CANNED YAMS CANNED FRUITS MEDIUM/LARGE BASKETS CANNED VEGETABLES (PINEAPPLES, PEACHES, FRUIT NAPKINS COCKTAIL) For the past eighteen years, Comité Noviembre has set aside the Sunday before Thanksgiving as a day of community service and social responsibility in commemoration of November 19th, traditionally known as Puerto Rican discovery day or as we like to call it Puerto Rican “encounter” day. The purpose of the day is to show the spirit of commitment and the power of action. Over the past years, this event has been a great success and organizations throughout the city have beneﬁ ted from this collaboration, including homeless and battered women’s shelters and senior centers as well as individual families.

Community service and social responsibility are the strongholds of the Puerto Rican community. Throughout the years our experience has shown us that when we dedicate ourselves to improving the quality of life of those around us, we build a more uniﬁ ed and stronger society. Comite Noviembre urges you to conduct your own food drive at your work place, church, school or simply participate in this day as a volunteer Live the Spirit of Com- mitment and the Power of Action Come Join Us! Live the Spirit of Commitment and the Power of Action Come Join Us!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED BEFORE AND AFTER THIS DATE FOR FOOD COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION!

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO VOLUNTEER PLEASE CONTACT Alicia Rodriguez, [email protected], (347) 675 5490, Martha Laureano, (917) 803-2367, Teresa A. Santiago, CN, (914) 263-6599, [email protected]

54 Highlights of the 18th Annual CN DAY OF COMMUNITY SERVICE & SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

For the past eighteen years, CN has set aside the Sunday before Thanksgiving as a day of community service and social responsibility. During this day people participate in several volunteer efforts that aid the Puerto Rican community and its organizations. The purpose of the day is to show the spirit of commitment and the power of action. Over the past years, this event has been a great success and organizations throughout the city have beneﬁ ted from this collaboration, including homeless and battered women’s shelters and senior centers as well as individual families. This year’s event will take place simultaneously on Sunday, November 24, 2013, at several locations throughout the City in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens, from 11AM to 2PM.

CN along with youth leadership development and education organizations of ASPIRA of New York, El Puente, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Latino Bigs will conduct a food drive of non- perishable foods, to create Thanksgiving dinner baskets for the poor of New York. This year’s goal is to create 300 food baskets.

Highlights of 17th Annual Event As in the past 10 years, ASPIRA Clubs in 18 high schools around the entire City of New York conducted food drives at each of the clubs. The drive collected over 4,500 cans of foods. The items of non-perishable foods collected created a typical Puerto Rican Thanksgiving meal. Because of the devastation that Hurricane Sandy left in the New York City area, ASPIRANTES decided to donate the non-perishable food collected to the Hurricane Sandy Relief efforts in Staten Island. With monetary contributions that CN collected from its members, Big Brothers Big Sister afﬁ liates, colleagues, family and friends as well as a donation of 75 turkeys from the Yorkville Food Pantry in Manhattan, ASPIRANTES, El Puente Urban Young Warriors, Big Brothers Big Sisters and Latino Bigs as well as volunteers were able to distribute over 300 turkeys to needy families in throughout the City the Sunday before Thanksgiving. The distribution occurred simultaneously in ﬁ ve different locations including the Bronx (1) Manhattan (2) Brooklyn (1) and Queens, (1). The locations this year are: El Museo del Barrio In the Bronx 1230 Fifth Avenue, NYC, 2nd Floor James Monroe/IPRHE Senior Center 1776 Story Ave, Bronx, NY La Clinical del Barrio 413 E 120th Street, NYC In Queens Elmhurst Jackson Heights IPRHE Sr. Center In Brooklyn 75-01 Broadway, Elmhurst, NY TBD

In these tough economic times it is very difﬁ cult to provide for our own families however community service and social responsibility are the strongholds of the Puerto Rican community. Throughout the years our experience has shown us that when we dedicate ourselves to improving the quality of life of those around us, we build a more uniﬁ ed and stronger society.

Comité Noviembre, ASPIRA and Big Brothers Big Sisters urges each and every one of you to get involved. Collect money to buy turkeys, volunteer on the day of event or conduct your own food drives in your schools, colleges/universities, work place, churches, hospitals and supermarkets and help us feed the needy and hungry in our community.

This year, CN is requesting donations from YOU, the community to purchase 300 – 10 to 15lb turkeys. The goal is to raise $4000. Please make out check to: Comité Noviembre and include Turkey Drive in the memo section of your check. Please mail check to: Comité Noviembre C/O TAS Communications, LLC, 45 East Hartsdale Avenue – Suite 3L, Hartsdale, NY 10530, Attn: Teresa A. Santiago. You can also make donation by PAYPAL by logging onto our website at www.comitenoviembre.org and follow PAYPAL directions. Help us make a difference through the Spirit of Commitment and the Power of Action! It just takes one person to ask the question – the only thing they can do is say No the best thing that can happen is that we make a solid difference.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED BEFORE AND AFTER THIS DATE FOR FOOD COLLECTION AND DISTRIBUTION!

For more information and to Volunteer please contact: Alicia Rodriguez, [email protected]. (347) 675 5490 Iris W. Ramirez, Latino Bigs, Big Brother Big Sisters, [email protected] Martha Laureano, 917 803 2367; ASPIRA of NY, (212) 564-6880 Suleika Cabrera Drinane, IPRHE, suleika@iprhe,org, (212) 677-4182 Maritza Carmona, El Museo del Barrio, [email protected], (212) 660-7176 Teresa A. Santiago, CN, [email protected], (914) 263-6599 55 La Fundación Nacional para la Cultura Popular, (The National Founda- tion for Popular Culture), is a non-proﬁ t organization incorporated in August 1996. The mission of the La Fundación is to advance the development of Puerto Rican popular culture through study, research, promotion and sponsorship of events speciﬁ cally geared to cultural interest and performers.

La Fundación’s goals are to research, study, ﬁ le, produce publications, cata- logue, disclose, compete, conserve, produce, promote, exhibit, exchange and disseminate information, knowledge and the history of Puerto Rico’s popular, classical and folkloric culture.

La Fundación’s archives hold and preserve an extensive collection of records in all formats, including radio recordings, interviews, photos, negatives, vid- eos in various formats, advertising propaganda, magazines, works of art, paintings and other popular culture collectibles.

In line with its objectives, the organization encourages and promotes the knowledge of popular culture, serving as a resource for research and source of information to artists, musicians, students, teachers, communicators in all branches (including journalists, publicists and public relations), writers, scriptwriters, producers of shows, historians, sponsors as well as governmental and educational organizations.

Javier Santiago, Founder and Executive Director Mailing Address Apartado 9023971, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00902-3971 Location Calle Fortaleza #56 Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901

[email protected] (787) 724-7165; (787)725-2498 (f)

56 comité noviembre th 27mes de la Anniversaryherencia puertorriqueña Buscando Nuestras Raices

Tuesday, August 6, 2013 – Thursday, August 15, 2013 Sheraton Puerto RicoHotel & Casino, San Juan, PR

Photos by Carlos Hernandez

Buscando Nuestra Raíces VII participants at El Yunque in This year marked the seventh annual cultural trip to Puerto Fajardo, PR, learning about the secrets of this paradise. Rico:“Buscando Nuestras Raíces.” This trip is an adventure into a cultural and educational experience for those who want to explore the richness of Puerto Rico’s culture, ancestral roots and history. Making this trip a reality was a natural progression of CN’s mission and goals. For the past seven years we have planned this trip taking into con- sideration that many of us visit the island frequently but rarely visit the cultural and historical sites and landmarks unique to Puerto Rico and renowned throughout the world. As promised our itinerary this year took us into the moun- tainous town of Jayuya known as the Capitol of the In- digenous and explored how our Taíno ancestors lived and created their own society; visited El Yunque our very own Caribbean jungle that stretches from Farjardo to Luquillo, tried to connect with extra terrestrial beings at the Arecibo Observatory, saw the majestic metropolitan area and land- Exploring a nature trail within El Yunque. marks of Old San Juan, attended many receptions including one at el Capitolio and breakfast at La Fortaleza with Governor Alejandro Garcia Padilla and enjoyed reliving our history with tours of Casa Blanca, Museo Casa Ca- nales as well as Galería Nacional, and el Museo Contem- poráneo Yes, this trip once again was unique, exciting and extremely memorable. Please join us on this incredible journey in the Summer of 2014.

Trip Highlights • Bienvenida/Welcome Reception, sponsored by, Em- bassy Suites San Juan Hotel & Casino, Isla Verde • Tour of Casa Blanca – Juan Ponce de Leon Residence and La Galería Nacional • Reception & Tour of El Capitolio (the Capitol) spon- Angel Santini Palos, CN & trip coordinator conducting his sored by the Hon.Eduardo Bathia Gautier, PresidentJoin of daily us educational next talkyear! and tour on the bus. 57 Trip participants with the Governor of Puerto Rico, Alejandro J. Garcia Padilla and his wife, at La Fortaleza Buscando Nuestras Raices co’s First Lady Wilma Pastrana de Garcia at La For- (continued) taleza, Governor’s Residence. • Viewing of the documentary fi lm, Las Carpetas at la the Senate of PR Universidad InterAmericana School of Law with pre- • Tour of El Yunque, Cascada la Coca and Torre Yokahu. sentation by Director Maite Rivera Carbonell. Las Carpetas is the story of four Puerto Ricans who come • “Conversatorio” between Comité Noviembre and face to face with their past when the government used Agenda Cuidadana where issues affecting Puerto Rico illegal methods to monitor them. Participants had the were discussed between Comité Noviembre members, privilege to meet Doña community and non-profi t leaders and leaders of key Puerto Rican organizations. Topics discussed were • Tour of the Arecibo Observatory/National Astronomy benefi ts equity for Puerto Rican Veterans, Securing and Ionosphere Center (NAIC) celebrating its 50th Boarders/Drugs, Elderly Supplemental Security In- Anniversary. surance Benefi ts (SSI). Suggestions for possible. This • Workshop and Photo Exhibition on Vieques entitled: dialogue was the fi rst of its kind and a collaborative “Los Rostros de Vieques” at the headquarters of the partnership has been formed to work together to assist Asociación de Fotoperiodistas de Puerto Rico in San each other in the issues that are affecting Puerto Rico Juan. The presentation featured the heroes crusaders, and the mainland. advocates and people in the struggle in Vieques. Pre- • Breakfast with the Honorable Alejandro Garcia Pa- sentation, reception, dinner and musical entertainment dilla, Governor of Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto was sponsored by the Asociación de Fotoperiodistas Rico/Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and Puerto Ri- de PR • Fundación Nacional Para La Cultural Popular. Musi- cal presentation byAna del Rosario, Cantaora/Flamen- co Group and dinner, Sponsored by Fundación Nacio- nal Para La Cultural Popular and Destilería Serralles • Tour of Fundación Luis Muñoz Marín, Parque Dona Ines with lecture and fi lm presentation of, “Doña Inés María Mendoza: la palabra como destino,” which documented the life, social, educational and advocacy work of the very First Lady of Puerto Rico and her profound impact on her beloved homeland. Tour of historical landmarks in Jayuya, “La Capital Indi- gena/Indigenous Capital” including el Monumento al Cacique Hayuya/Taíno Tomb, the Cemi Museum, La The two Carmens: Allende, (l) and Fernandez, (r) proudly wearing their Comité Noviembre polo Piedra Escrita, where many of us soaked our feet in the river, and Museo Casa Canales where we learned 58 Buscando Nuestras Raices and no funds for services to reach the great number (continued) of people using intravenous drugs and HIV positive individuals. about Rosario Canales Quintero, the founder and fi rst • Farewell reception & dinner honoring Coalición Pro mayor of Jayuya and two of his offspring who become Corredor Ecológico del Noreste, Idalia Perez Garay, important fi gures in Puerto Rico’s national history. actor, Fundacion Luis Muñoz Marín, Henry Hutchin- His son, born Nemesio Canales, became a prominent son, Concertino, Orquesta Sinfonica de Puerto Rico. writer, lawyer, and politician, still admired for having Musical performance by Taller Típico Criollo and Los been a leading proponent for universal suffrage and Violines de Marquito. Sponsored by Sheraton Puerto a champion of women’s rights. Rosario’s daughter, Rico Hotel & Casino, Comité Noviembre, Fundación Blanca Canales, headed the Jayuya Uprising during Nacional Para La Cultural Popular and el Municipio the Nationalist Party’s 1950 revolt against American de Caguas. rule on the island. The unsuccessful attempt at securing her country’s independence did not relinquish the desire for an autonomous Puerto Rico, and Blanca remained an advocate of freedom until her death in 1996. Lunch was at La Hacienda Gripiñas sponsored by Mayor Jorge L. Georgie” González Otero, Munici- pality of Jayuya and a stop at Destilería Cruz for a few shots of pitorro of many fl avors. • One of the most impactful visits was to PR CoNCRA (Puerto Rico Community Network for Clinical Re- search on AIDS) a 22-year old non-profi t organization aimed at promoting health and improving the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS in Puerto Rico and at the same time to prevent infection with HIV. A fi lm presentation on La Punta de la Montaña a needle Teresa A. Santiago, CN Chairwoman with her nephew George exchange program in Puerto Rico brought to light the Daniel Santiago the youngest participant of the trip soak their serious critical problem that Puerto Rico is facing feet and share a Kodak moment at La Piedra Escrita

Trip participants at the Museo del Cemi

59 Conversatorio Comité Noviembre & Agenda Cuidadana Aqui y Alla Somos Iguales

The key issues discussed were inequity in benefi ts to Puerto Rican Veterans who live on the island as opposed to PR veterans that live on the mainland, Secur- ing Boarders from drug traffi ckers as well as terrorists, epidemic drug situation, no services for Carmelo Loran, retired, Vietnam veteran ex- the elderly, no Supple- presses his point on equity for PR veterans mental Security Insurance Benefi ts (SSI) and Preservation of Puerto Rican culture and history. Veterans that live in Puerto Rico receive less benefi ts then 2013 Comité Noviembre Buscando Nuestra Raíces annual educational Trip to Puerto Puerto Rican veterans that live on the mainland. CN mem- Rico Converatorio with Agenda Ciudadana bers empahzised that all Puerto Ricans are Americans by birth and they have fought in all American confl icts from On Thursday, August 8, 2013, during CN’s annual trip to Korea, to Vietnam to Desart Storm to Iraqui Freedom. Puerto Rico, a “conversatorio” between its participants The issue is multi-layered from direct monetary benefi ts to which included CN board members and a diverse group individual veterans, to health benefi ts and widow benefi ts. of individuals ranging in age, professions, experiences Puerto Rican veterans and their families do not receive and political ideologies met with the leadership of Agenda the same benefi ts as any American military personnel and Ciudadana, (AG), at its headquarters at El Nuevo Día in families. Guaynabo, PR. This dialogue was the fi rst of its kind involving Puerto Rican leaders from the mainland dis- Participants discussed that PR has cussing current issues affecting the island and providing very little programs for seniors if any concrete strategies for possible solutions. funded by public dollars, from health care, home health aids, nutrition, el- Agenda Ciudadana, a non-profi t, non-partisan organiza- derly housing, manage care programs, tion, serves as a collaborative space in which citizens, or- etc. Senior Citizens in PR receive less ganizations and institutions from different social sectors social security benefi ts as compared gather and deliberate public issues affecting the country with Puerto Ricans residing in the US. in eight central areas: Education, Economic Development, There are however, programs in the Angel Santini Palos discuss- Government Struc- States that operate successful program ing lack of elderly social ser- ture and Public Pol- that can form partnerships with organi- vices on the Island and how organizations like IPRHE icy, National Secu- zation in PR. Additionally, the Institute can form partnerships rity, Health, Human for the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Elderly and Civil Rights, is already working with the organization Esperanza Para Environmental Is- La Vejez Inc. on possibly working on two projects that sues, and Families. would serve both PR elderly on the island and the main- Agenda Ciudadana land. The fi rst deals with the culture shock that many el- is responsible for: María de Lourdes Lara Hernández, Ph.D., Executive derly face when they return to the island. One particular Director, Agenda Ciudadana expresses mission of AC (1) coordinating sector of the population experiencing this cultural differ- meetings, products, ence is the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) research and follow-up of citizen forums, dialogues, and community, who not only face old age but also the cultural public deliberations summits; (2) facilitating virtual inter- clashes as well as issues of identity once they return to PR. active discussions; (3) publishing and diffusing content through different media; (4) follow-up of agreements from The participants expressed that Puerto Ricans are regarded social sectors through governing boards; and (5) publica- as second-class citizens, with unequal benefi ts for Medi- tions of research and leading articles. care and Medicaid when compared to the US.

60 Additionally, a general discussion on Puerto Rican identi- General Information on Agenda ty was had. Several participants expressed that throughout Ciudadana their lives they have had to MISION: Agenda Ciudadana fa- struggle to be accepted in cilitates dialogue processes, agree- mainstream America, al- ments, collaborations, and allianc- though we are Americans es between social sectors based on by birth and when they citizen empowerment, democratic come to the island they participation, transparency, and ac- are not considered Puerto countability for the construction of Rican because they were a sustainable and equitable coun- not born on the island, try. VISION: An educated, pros- causing a real crisis. The Sandra Figueroa, Professor, Eugenio perous, and democratic country María de Hostos Community College/City bottom line is that we have with competent, active, conscious, University of NY making a point on perceived to stand together 8 million Carmen Allende, Retired, identity and collaborative citizens. VAL- Community Activist, Housing strong to achieve what is UES: Democratic participation, Advocate rightfully ours and equity. Deliberative dialogue, Integrity, The almost 3 hour discussion garnered the following re- Accountability, Solidarity, Transparency, and Equity. sults and agreements: Agenda Ciudadana Competencies and Work Areas • Mobilization of communities and citizens to assert rights of Puerto Ricans RESEARCH: We use Participatory Action Research meth- equity within and outside of the US odology that allows the active participation of citizens and for veterans and the elderly before the experts in the research process or subject to work. In this U.S. Congress, recognizing our voting methodology the subject or phenomenon to investigate is power and that we are 8 million strong agreed upon between investigators and citizens/communi- (USA and PR) if all work together. ties to be researched, allowing an exchange of knowledge • Start to educate the community and sharing the responsibility. and bring to a collective consciousness CITIZEN EDUCATION: COMPETENT that all Puerto Ricans are equal, not fi rst Diego Castellanos, Ed, D., CITIZEN=COMPETENT COUNTRY. host, producer, Puerto Rican or second class citizens to transcend the We are focused on Citizen Competencies which are de- PANORAMA, ABC, Channel legal relationship between PR-USA, 6, Philadelphia, PA fi ned as the cognitive, emotional and communicative abili- that it is our responsibility as Puerto Ri- ties that, combined with knowledge and attitudinal skills, cans to bring equity to our island. Similarly, make use make it possible for people to act in a constructive manner of the space of education to work for the same com- in a democratic society. munity, under the same identity, for issues that affect us all Puerto Ricans. IT’S KNOWING AND KNOWING HOW TO DO IT. It • Agenda Ciudadana will continue an open dialogue is being responsible for the protection of our rights as citi- with Comité Noviembre on issues, solutions and strat- zens and to participate actively in society. egies that will benefi t the 8 million of Puerto Ricans. ACCOUNTABILITY: Is defi ned as a space of interlocu- On Friday September 13, 2013 Comité Noviembre, the tion between the public servers and the citizens. Aims to Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration and Agenda generate transparency, create trust conditions between of- Ciudadana conducted a teleconference call meeting at fi cials and citizens, and guarantee the exercise of social PRFAA’s headquarters in Manhattan. control to the public administrator. Allows adjusting proj- A preliminary plan of action was dis- ects and action plans to realize and enforce that the ac- cussed to include the following: tions and decisions of the public authorities are justifi ed. • Development of National Theme We promote that the accountability of the country should (Aqui y Alla: Somos Iguales) include participation from the private sector, non-profi t • Create a Puerto Rican Legislative Agenda working with PRFAA with the organizations, foundations, syndicates, media, citizens, issues that are determined among others sectors. Our objectives are: (1) Strengthen • Meet with New York’s Senato- the public and Democratic Participation, (2) Contribute to rial and Congressional Delegation and the development of postulates like transparency, respon- present agenda sibility, effi cacy, effi ciency, citizen participation in the Lisa M. Rodriguez, MSW, • Research legal solutions to issues management of public affairs, (3) Constitute a space for Social Worker, Casita Maria Charter School, Bronx, NY, • Identify and bring together Puer- a direct dialogue between government and citizens, (4) expressing her ideas to Rican Membership organizations, Serve as input for adjusting projects and action plans to (local and national) make sure they respond to the needs and demands of the • Make formal announcement of partnership community, (5)Follow-up the fulfi llment of the citizens • Presentation/Workshop during November to key proposals received by each political party. stakeholders 61 For more than 44 years, El Museo Del Barrio, New York’s leading Latino cultural institution, has welcomed visitors of all backgrounds to discover the artistic and cultural landscape of Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures. With more than 8,000 objects in its permanent collection, with national and international partnerships, El Museo continues to put forward cutting edge exhibitions, and provide free educational and publlic programming. A dynamic artistic and community gathering place; El Museo is a center of cultural pride on New York’s Museum Mile.

Join us for our exciting new fall programming featuring artist talks, performances, art-making workshops, story-telling series, concerts, ﬁ lm screenings, book readings, and more.

Exhibitions on View

La Bienal 2013: HERE IS WHERE WE JUMP June 11, 2013 – January 4, 2014

This year marks the seventh edition of El Museo’s biennial exhibition. La Bienal features work by Latino and Latin-American artists, from newly-minted to mid-career, who live and work in the greater metropolitan area of New York City. The exhibition was designed to give opportunities to artists and to make the public aware of their work, and features new works by artists who have never shown at El Museo. La Bienal is interested in the conditions under which works of art are made and how they are received by the public. The artists’ methods and processes are of signiﬁ cance, as is the context in which they are interpreted. El Museo’s Bienal celebrates the experimental and experiential aspects of contemporary art, and supports the notion that this production is part of the history of contemporary American art. is on view through January 4, 2014. Exhibition curated by El Museo Curator Rocío Aranda-Alvarado and Raul Zamudio, an independent New York- based curator, and advised by Chus Martínez, El Museo’s Chief Curator.

To Whom Does the World Belong? February 5, 2014 to May 24, 2014

To Whom Does the World Belong?, on view at El Museo del Barrio from February 5, 2014 to May 24, 2014, is a question written by poet, playwright, and artist Pedro Pietri (1944-2004) in the margins of a manuscript belonging to his play “The Masses Are Asses,” ﬁ rst performed by Miriam Colon’s Puerto Rican Traveling Theatre in 1975. This question serves as a conceptual thread to present key works by El Museo del Barrio’s founder, Raphael Montañez Ortiz (b. 1934) in dialogue with an expanded view of the museum’s collection. The premise of the show is to understand El Museo del Barrio as the work of an artist; therefore the exhibition explores how artists form part of a collective mind. Trusting art to transform the ways in which we perceive ourselves and others is a lesson inscribed in the founding principles of El Museo.

The exhibit marks the inaugural curatorial work by El Museo’s Chief Curator, Chus Martinez. Interdisciplinary artist Nicolás Dumit Estevez (b. 1967) will also bring additional concepts to the exhibit, which departs from speciﬁ c artworks from El Museo’s collection in dialogue with works and artists that, though not part of the collection, are especially pertinent in this context. In celebration of the founder’s 80th birthday and the museum’s 45th anniversary, a range of works and archival materials that span his more than sixty years of production will be on display.

Carlos Galvez Deputy Executive Director Chus Martinez Chief Curator Cheryl Mantia Interim Director of Development Eileen Reyes Arias Senior Manager of Government and Community Affairs Stephanie Spahr LaFroscia Senior Manager of Public Programs and Education Maritza Carmona Community and Government Affairs Coordinator Erica Torres Rentals Manager

El Museo del Barrio 230 5th AVENUE, NY, NY, 10029 Open Wednesday through Saturday 11am to 6pm/Senior Free Wednesdays For more information visit elmuseo.org

62 EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO’S ANNUAL THREE KINGS DAY PARADE

El Museo del Barrio’s Annual Three Kings Day Parade was introduced to East Harlem in 1977, under the leadership of then Director, Jack Agueros. For 36 years, the Three Kings Day Parade has celebrated the cultural traditions of Dia de Los Reyes, in the style in which it is observed throughout Puerto Rico and Latin America. Since its humble days of its inauguration, The Three Kings Day Parade has seen exponential growth in participation and spectator turnout, extending its reach to thousands of children and families throughout the tri- state area.

Estimated viewership and participation from 2010-2013 El Museo has entertained an audience of over 5,000 including neighborhood schools, organizations, community members, and families from across the ﬁ ve boroughs. Parade participation has reached close to 4,000 people.

Parade highlights include: • La Cultura de Compartir - 2012 • Three gigantic hand-made puppets designed by Polina • Parrandas - 2011 Porras Sivolobova, 2010 (The puppets represent the birth of Taino culture, the connection between our ancestors, A number of elected ofﬁ cials and special guest have joined and the connection between the celestial and underground in on the celebration including, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, worlds.) Speaker Christine Quinn, City Council Members Melissa • Three Kings Costumes, created by NYC native and Project Mark-Viverito, Gale Brewer, Robert Jackson, Inez Dickens, Runway star, Emilio Sosa, 2011 (Represent Taino, Spanish, and Yadanis Rodriguez, Assembly Member Robert Rodriguez, and Afro-Latino inﬂ uence through Anacaona, Miguel de Senators Bill Perkins, and José Serrano, Congressman José Cervantes, and Arturo Schomburg, respectively) Serrano and Congressman Charles Rangel, and New York City • Our beloved camels Commissioner Fatima Shama, just to name a few. • Over 10 performance groups march in the parade and the list continues to grow. The parade would not be possible without the planning and

dedication of The Three Kings Day Parade Steering Committee El Museo del Barrio nominates leaders from the community to and the many devoted volunteers who selﬂ essly give their time serve as honorary Kings, Madrinas, and Padrinos, of the parade. assuring the parade is a success. These individuals are chosen based on their leadership and Representation from over 20 organizations and schools contributions to El Barrio and to the Latino community. They Participation of over 100 volunteers include local educators, authors, activists, and artists from all over New York City. Past Kings have included: The Three Kings Day Celebration has received generous support • Esmeralda Santiago, Author from sponsors like Chocolate Cortez, Consolidated Edison, • Johnny Colon, The Johnny Colon Orchestra Inc., Harlem RBI, Inca Kola Inc., The Manhattan Delegation of • Jesús “Papoleto” Meléndez, Poet, Playwright, and the New York City Council, Mount Sinai Medical Center, The Performance Artist Ofﬁ ce of Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, The New • Lin-Manuel Miranda, Writer, Producer, Actor York Yankees, and Toy Industry Foundation, • Maria Hinojosa, Journalist • Nicolasa Mohr, Author, Artist Media coverage from local and daily newspapers, TV networks, • Oscar Hijuelos, Author radio, and online publications include, Univision 41, The New York Times, The New York Daily News, Manhattan Times, NY1 Recently, themes have been added to the parade. These themes News, NY1 Noticias, CBS News Online, La Mega, Wall Street are non-religious, missioned focused, and hold universal values. Journal, El Tiempo, NPR Radio, and NY Magazine, and Time Themes that have been explored include: Out New York. • El Barrio Unido - 2013 Save the Date: The 37th Annual Three Kings Day Parade is on Monday, January 6, 2014 63 Musica de Camara, celebrates its 33rd Anniversary this year. Founded by soprano Eva de La O, the organization provides a forum for Puerto Rican, Hispanic and African American classical musicians. The several hundred concerts have also presented non-Hispanic artists in concerts before New York City audiences.

Musica de Camara concerts have taken place at major venues such as Alice Tully Hall; Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Merkin Concert Hall; Kaufman Cultural Center, St Patrick's Cathedral, The Lehman Cen- ter for the Performing Arts, the Hostos Center for the Arts, Pregones Theater, Symphony Space and the Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Performances have received lauda- tory reviews from music critics in the New York Times, El Diario La Prensa, New Yori Newsday, the New York Concert Review, the Amsterdam News, El Nuevo Dia and other periodicals.

Musica de Camara has also established a professional Orchestra and various String Ensembles and yearly provides contemporary classical composers with commissions and premiere performances of their works. The organization maintains a library of live performances for documentary purposes and has also produced several commercial recordings featuring the legendary Metropolitan Opera baritone Justino Diaz, viola-violin virtuoso and conductor Christian Colberg and Grammy nominated guitarist-composer Alberto Rodriguez Ortiz.

Some of the artists who have participated in the Musica de Camara events are presently members of the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera Company and Orchestra, the New Jersey Symphony, the Orpheus Orchestra, the Cincinnati Orchestra and the Puerto Rico Symphony. Many are winners of world-wide competitions such as the Gina Bacahauer International Piano and the Naumberg Foundation Competitions.

Since its inception, Musica de Camara has presented a Lecture Demonstration Program for public school children in under-served communities. The program covers the disciplines of piano, strings, wind instru- ments, voice and the concomitant areas of repertoire, style, history and foreign language terminology, with a special emphasis on aural analysis. The Lecture Demonstration Program empowers students to envision new cultural vistas and to aspire to new career possibilities.

Eva de La O Director Musica de Camara 1215 5th Avenue; Suite 1B, New York, NY 10029 212-410-5612 [email protected] | www.MusicaDeCamara25.com

64 La Casa de la Herencia Cultural Puertorriqueña, Inc. (The Puerto Rican Cultural Heritage House, Inc.), also known as La Casa, is a not-for-proﬁ t, community-based, cultural institution, founded in 1980 to advance, disseminate and preserve the cultural heritage of Puerto Ricans in New York City. La Casa’s mission is to promote, enhance and preserve the richness of Puerto Rican culture in the Diaspora.

La Casa hosts a series of cultural and educational programs and special events, pertaining to the history, culture, literature, and arts and crafts of Puerto Rico, and the contributions pioneered by the Puerto Rican community of New York City.

The Library: La Casa’s main component is its Puerto Rican Heritage Library. The Library houses a spe- cialized collection and scholarly resource center consisting of approximately 14,000 diversifi ed books and periodicals newspapers, microfi lms, photographs, sound and visual recordings, government documents and doctoral dissertations. These are available in Spanish and English. The availability of reference material provides an opportunity to fi ll the informational needs and interests. The collection contains articles and various other relevant materials which document the pursuit of the Puerto Rican in New York and on the Island. La Casa’s Heritage Library is a prestigious research center which makes its services available to members, students and professionals. La Casa’s archives include a collection of microfi lms, over two hundred cultural posters, photographs, arts and crafts, and objects from pre-Columbian times, available to students at all levels of study and to all community members.

Community Services: La Casa is an institution which is dedicated to the community. Our services are based on the objectives of providing and disseminating informative materials on the history and culture of Puerto Rico. La Casa provides outreach services to New York private and public schools, colleges and universities, community and governmental agencies, senior citizen centers and others.

Awards Beneﬁ t: Another popular event is La Casa’s annual Community Awards Beneﬁ t held in New York City. Filled with traditional food and music, the gala offers the very best el Barrio has to offer.

Leticia Rodriguez, Director La Casa de la Herencia Cultural Puertorriqueña, Inc. 1230 Fifth Avenue, 4th ﬂ oor – 409; New York, NY 10029 (212) 722 - 2600(O); (212) 470 – 8228 (C) Website: Lacasapr.org

65 The National Institute for Latino Policy (NiLP) is a 5019C)(3) nonproﬁ t and nonpartisan policy center established in 1982 in New York City originally as the Institute for Puerto Rican Policy (IPR). The National Institute for Latino Policy provides a unique approach and voice to the policy analysis and advocacy needs of the Latino community. Originally focused on the Puerto Rican community, our work has increasingly included all Latinos and has gone from a local to a national scope.

The Institute’s approach includes:

• Focusing on the intersectionality of Latino policy issues • The use of action-research that is used as an organizing tool for advocacy • A strategy that focuses on the development of local and state level strategies for policy analysis and organizing • The creative and aggressive use of the internet and the media as community education and organizing tools • An emphasis on working in critical policy areas that are underdeveloped or not addressed in the Latino community

In the past year, NiLP’s accomplishments include:

• Leading a major educational campaign to raise awareness of the 2010 Census and its importance to the Latino community. NiLP has created and coordinated the Latino Census Network, an informational network with 28 of the leading national and regional Latino organizations in the United States and the leading clearinghouse on Census issues affecting Latinos in the country.. In recognition of this work, NiLP President has been appointed by the U.S. Commerce Secretary to the Census Advisory Committee on the Hispanic Population, and he has been elected to the National Steering Committee of the Census Bureau’s Census Information Centers (CIC) Program. • Being a founder of the Defend the Honor Campaign that put community pressure on PBS and ﬁ lmmaker Ken Burn to include the Latino experience in their 7-part documentary series, The War. NiLP is also part of a group of national Latino organization that have been meeting with the leadership of PBS to promote greater Latino representation in their programming, staff and governance. • Providing an independent and nonpartisan voice analyzing the role of the Latino vote in such media as the New York Times, Washington Post, El Diario-La Prensa, Shimbun Yumiori Newspaper (Japan), CNN, CNN en Español, O Estado de S. Paulo (Brazil), Univision, Telemundo, Radio Bilingue, Politico, Hispanic Link, Spanglish Magazine, El Nuevo Dia (Puerto Rico), Hofstra University Radio, National Public Radio (NPR), Hispanic Market Weekly, XM Radio, the New Jersey Network and even Comedy Central’s Colbert Report, among others. • Working with national Latino coalitions like the National Hispanic Leadership Agenda, the National Latino Media Council, the Defend the Honor Campaign, the National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights and others to develop Latino agenda for change. • Developing one of the most effective national informational networks on the Internet on Latino policy issues through our Latino Policy eNewsletter, Email Bulletins and National Latino Opinion Leaders’ Surveys. • Efforts to increase the accountability of philanthropy to Latino and other communities of color through being part of the establishment of the NYC Collaborative for Fairness and Equity in Philanthropy, being part of the Diversity in Philanthropy Project at the New York Regional Association of Grantmakers and the Foundation Center, and related activities. • Putting pressure on CNN to remove a fundraising appeal by Lou Dobbs from their website for the Town of Hazelton to ﬁ ght support their anti-immigrant policies. Upon receiving NiLP’s objections, CNN took down the biased ad within a day from the Lou Dobbs Tonight section of their website. • Presentations on Latino policy issues throughout the United States. Including at Brandies University, Cornell University, the Dominican-American National Roundtable Conference in Providence, Rhode Island, the New York Chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA), the Latino Policy Forum in Chicago, LULAC Annual Conference in Washington, DC, Northern Illinois University, the Puerto Rican Studies Association 8th Conference in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Proskauer Rose LLP, Smith College, UBS, the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute Annual Conference in Chicago,the University of Puerto Rico, and the University of Texas at Austin. Among others.

Angelo Falcón, President National Institute for Latino Policy (NiLP) 101 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10013 212-334-5722 Fax: 917-677-8593 [email protected] www.latinopolicy.org 66 Cඈආආඈඇඐൾൺඅඍඁ ඈൿ Pඎൾඋඍඈ Rංർඈ Pඎൾඋඍඈ Rංർඈ Fൾൽൾඋൺඅ Aൿൿൺංඋඌ Aൽආංඇංඌඍඋൺඍංඈඇ Oൿൿංർൾ ඈൿ ඍඁൾ Gඈඏൾඋඇඈඋ, Hඈඇඈඋൺൻඅൾ Aඅൾඃൺඇൽඋඈ Gൺඋർං ൺ Pൺൽංඅඅൺ

The Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA) represents the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico before federal, state, and local governments. The ofﬁ ce promotes the Government of Puerto Rico’s economic and public policy initiatives to achieve a better quality of life for the four million U.S. citizens living in Puerto Rico, and advises local government agencies and mu-nicipalities on issues of interest to Puerto Rico before the federal government.

As such, the Washington offi ce is the primary liaison between Puerto Rico’s offi cials, the White House, Congress, and federal agencies. Additionally, the offi ce interacts with U.S. organiza-tions representing governors from the states, including the National Governors Association (NGA) and the Southern Gover- nors’ Association to advance the interests of the people of Puer-to Rico. Like many states, Puerto Rico’s focus areas include economic development, transpor-tation funding, energy, health care (including Medi- care and Medicaid), as well as veterans, and defense issues.

PRFAA REGIONAL OFFICES

Over the last 70 years, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico’s regional ofﬁ ce structure has evolved from providing guidance to Puerto Rican migrants, promoting cultural awareness and helping the Puerto Rican community to get involved in the political process. Today, the emphasis of the regional ofﬁ ces are in three main areas: economic development through the promotion of business ventures between the Island and U.S. communities; education, empow-erment and leadership development through partnerships with community organizations.

PRFAA-NY supports over two million Puerto Ricans living in New York, New Jersey and Con-necticut. Established in 1930, this is the oldest ofﬁ ce of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico in the United States. Currently, PRFAA-NY is working on a couple of key initiatives in support of Puerto Ricans stateside and on the island. These initiatives are related to natural disasters management, cultural empowerment, economic development, and wellbeing support. PRFAA NY does this by collaborating closely with local governmental and nongovernmental institutions, and representing the community before city councils and other ofﬁ cial forums.

WASHINGTON D.C. OFFICE: 1100 17th St. NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 778-0710 Juan E. Hernández Mayoral Federico de Jesús Executive Director Deputy Executive Director

NEW YORK OFFICE: 135 West 50th Street, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10020, (212) 252-7300 Brenda Torres Barreto Rosa Cruz-Cordero Regional Ofﬁ ce Director Community Ofﬁ cer

FLORIDA OFFICE: 15 South Orlando Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34741, (407) 483-4880 Betsy Franceschini Pablo Cáceres Regional Ofﬁ ce Director Community Ofﬁ cer

67 Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund

Founded in 1972 as the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund, LatinoJustice PRLDEF has played a critical role in improving the lives and well-being of the now 8 million Puerto Ricans and more than 30 million other Latinos in the United States. LatinoJustice PRLDEF has worked to secure, promote and protect the civil rights of the Puerto Rican and wider Latino community, making it a leading civil rights organization and one of the premiere Latino organizations in the country.

EDUCATION RIGHTS: The Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund’s ﬁ rst lawsuit, ASPIRA v. NYC Board of Educa- tion, resulted in the groundbreaking ASPIRA Consent Decree which forced the school system to implement bilingual education techniques to effectively instruct students who spoke mostly Spanish. Since then, LatinoJustice PRLDEF has combated the forced segregation of Latino children in many parts of the country. The group has successfully intervened in desegregation cases in Wilm- ington, DE; Waterbury, CT; Buffalo, NY, and Boston, MA. LatinoJustice PRLDEF also brought a lawsuit challenging a decision to the double the tuition rates for undocumented students at CUNY. A political victory ensued, which allowed students graduating from NYS high schools to be eligible for State tuition rates.

EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS: In 1972, in two class action suits against the NYC Police Department, LatinoJustice PRLDEF was able to get the courts to force the department to institute fair hiring and promotional practices which increased the number of La- tino ofﬁ cers and sergeants. Additionally, the group ﬁ led an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board resulting in a $1.075 million settlement on behalf of Latino immigrant employees at a food processing plant. In 2002, LatinoJustice PRLDEF intervened in an EEOC suit against a Connecticut beauty supply company, for its imposition of an illegal English-only policy against its Latino employees.

VOTING RIGHTS: In 1973, as a result of a LatinoJustice PRLDEF court victory, for the ﬁ rst time in NYC history bilingual ballots and interpreters, in English, Spanish and Chinese, were provided to parents to vote in the school board elections. The same legal arguments were applied in the landmark voting rights case, Torres v. Sachs, which required the use of bilingual ballots for all NYC elections. In 1975 the federal Voting Rights Act was amended which secured the voting rights of all linguistic minorities throughout the country. In 1981, LatinoJustice PRLDEF successfully challenged the redistricting plan passed by the City Council and signed into law by the Mayor, which had been drawn to preclude additional minority representation on the City Council.

HOUSING RIGHTS: More than 30 years ago, LatinoJustice PRLDEF sued the NYC Housing Authority proving discrimination against Latin and African-American applicants for apartments in three housing projects in Williamsburg. After years of litigation, the parties agreed to a far-reaching settlement in 2002. In 1977, the group ﬁ led a class action suit against a Lower East Side co- operative which would not make apartments available to Latinos. Since then, LatinoJustice PRLDEF has fought for the rights of ten- ants in Brooklyn, against housing discrimination in city-owned apartments and for access rights to housing in Newark and Hartford.

FROM MIGRANTS’ TO IMMIGRANTS’ RIGHTS: In 1972, the group challenged the State of New Jersey and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for deliberately failing to protect the rights of migrant farm laborers throughout the state. Recently, in Hazleton, PA, LatinoJustice PRLDEF challenged a virulently anti-immigrant ordinance that ﬁ ned employers or landlords who hired or rented to undocumented immigrants and limited all government business to English only. This ordinance had tremendous impact nationally; since it was introduced in June 2006, at least 80 localities have proposed or passed laws modeled on it. LatinoJustice PRLDEF was successful in blocking the ordinance’s implementation after a federal judge granted permanent injunctive relief which enjoined Hazleton from putting the challenged ordinance into place.

DIVERSIFYING AMERICA’S LEGAL SYSTEM: Since its inception, the organization’s Education Division has been committed to increasing the diversity of the legal profession. LatinoJustice PRLDEF offers preparatory courses for students who wish to pursue a law degree, along with other education programs.

LatinoJustice PRLDEF, 99 Hudson Street 14th Floor, New York, NY 10013 Juan Cartagena, President & General Counsel, LatinoJustice: PRLDEF Lydiette Diaz, LatinoJustice: PRLDEF, CN Board Representative

68 The Center for Puerto Rican Studies (Centro de Estudios Puertorriqueños) Centro 695 Park Avenue, 1429 Hunter East New York, NY 10065 (212) 772-5688 http://centropr.hunter.cuny.edu Director: Dr. Edwin Meléndez

Centro is proud to be a member of Comité Noviembre. Centro congratulates Comité Noviembre on 25 years of “teaching and creating awareness of the culture, language and heritage of the Puerto Rican community.”

Centro de Estudios Puertorriqueños (Centro) is a research institute dedicated to the study and interpretation of the Puerto Rican experience in the United States by producing and disseminating relevant interdisciplinary research and by collecting, preserving, and providing access to archival and library resources documenting its history and culture. We seek to link scholarship to social action and policy debates, and to contribute to the enrichment of Puerto Rican studies.

Founded in 1973 by a coalition of faculty, students and community leaders, Centro seeks to achieve its mission by working closely with a network of education, research, archival advocacy and community based partners. Centro has been housed at Hunter College since 1983; yet, it is a CUNY-wide research center.

CENTRO LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES The Centro Library and Archives is the world’s only institution solely dedicated to collecting, preserving and disseminating the story of the Puerto Rican Diaspora. The collections include over 5,000 cubic feet of books, newspapers, periodicals, personal papers, government documents, broadsides, programs, oral histories on video, audio and other video tapes, manuscripts, photographs, prints, recorded music, family ephemera, and other resources that chronicle the history and contributions of stateside Puerto Ricans.

Housed in the new Lois V. and Samuel J. Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, the Centro Library and Archives provides services and programs to the scholarly community as well as the general public. As a support for teachers and researchers, the Archives offer primary materials, available nowhere else. They can make use of holdings that span the years from 1898 to the present and represent more than 100 collections, including the records of major community and civil rights organizations, the papers of elected ofﬁ cials, community activists, labor leaders, writers, artists, and more than 40,000 photographic images.

69 EI Puente—Spanish for the Bridge— is a community-based organization that engages more than 2,000 youth and adult members each year in the arts, education, public health, environmental justice and social action programs. Founded by Luis Garden Acosta in 1982 in the Southside of Williamsburg, El Puente harnesses the energy and efforts all the diverse peoplesof Brooklyn, bringing forward their power to self-determine their individual and collective condition, athome, in their communities, and in the world.

The organization connects community members through their involvement with any or all of the four main divisions: the Leadership Centers, the Academy for Peace and Justice (a New York City public high school), the Community Health and Environment Institute (CHE), and the Center for Arts and Culture. While each division has its unique focus and goals, member-leaders and Academy students are nurtured within an integrated, holistic program that draws from all four divisions, developing a well-rounded social awareness that prompts action and expression. True peace is the natural result of justice, and true justice can onlybe made possible by comprehension and compassion. We believe that individuals who are just can c constitutenothing but a just community, and just communities will thus amount to a just and peaceful world.

LEADERSHIP DIVISION

Leadership is the axis of change. Our Leadership Centers offer guidance, nurturing, counseling and training forpeople of all ages, in conjunction with projects led by CHE and CAC. Originally focused academically on children and young adolescents, the Leadership Division has launched the Scholars Program, aimed at late teens seeking to reach their full capacity as productive members of our community and the world. The EI Puente Scholars Program offers more intensive mentoring and academic support through a year-long program. Please call or visit EI Puente’s headquarters for more information.

Our Leadership Centers offer programs for children, teenagers and adults of all ages. By becoming a member-leader you have the freedom to visit any center at any time and get involved with the community. Programs are Monday - Friday, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

El Puente Headquarters / Williamsburg Leadership Center El Puente Leadership Center at Taylor-Wythe Houses 211 South 4th Street - Brooklyn, NY 11211 80 Clymer Street - Brooklyn, NY 11211 Tel: 718-387-0404 Tel: 718-782-5553

El Puente Leadership Beacon Center at MS 50 El Puente Bushwick Center 183 S. 3rd Street - Brooklyn, NY 11211 311 Central Avenue - Brooklyn, NY 11221 Tel: 718-486-3936 Tel: 718-452-0404 Scholars Program COMMUNITY HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT INSTITUTE (CHE)

The Community Health and Environment Institute (CHE) recognizes the intrinsic relationship between the environment and well-being and employs an indigenous led, development-oriented approach to health. It promotes a holistic vision of wellness that takes into account the mind, body, spirit and traditions of our youth and adult members. CHE engages the residents of Williamsburg and Bushwick by training them to identify and assess barriers to their health and well-being and supporting them in collective self-help and community action. It also brings together health care providers, government-partnered organizations, and health advocacy groups to address long-standing health and environmental justice issues facing North Brooklyn and New York City.

CHE programs include:

• Teatro El Puente, New York City’s ﬁ rst and longest running HIV/AIDS and health education theater group; • A health insurance access and advocacy program for low-income community residents; • The Espiritu Tierra Community Garden; • The Green Light District initiative.

El Puente Headquarters - 211 South 4th Street – Brooklyn, NY 11211 Tel: (718) 387-0404 – Fax: (718) 387-6816 – www.elpuente.us 70 In Memoriam

Héctor Luís Camacho Matías (May 24, 1962 – November 24, 2012), nicknamed Macho Camacho, was a Puerto Rican professional boxer and singer. Known for his quickness in the ring and fl amboyant style, he held major championships in the super featherweight (WBC, 1983), lightweight (WBC, 1985), and junior welterweight (WBO, 1989 and 1991) divisions. After earning minor titles in four additional weight classes, Camacho became the fi rst boxer to be recognized as a septuple champion. A storied amateur, Camacho won three New York Golden Gloves, beginning with the Sub-Novice 112 lb. championship in 1978.[4] During his 30-year career, Camacho had many notable fi ghts, defeating Panama’s Roberto Durán twice, and knocking out Sugar Ray Leonard, sending Leonard into permanent retirement. He also fought against Julio César Chávez, Félix Trinidad, and Oscar de la Hoya, among others. On November 20, 2012, Camacho was shot and seriously wounded while sitting in a car outside a bar in his native Bayamón, Puerto Rico; the driver, a childhood friend, was killed in the shooting. Camacho died four days later; after he was declared clinically brain dead, his mother requested the doctors remove him from life support. After lying in state for two days in Santurce, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Camacho’s remains were transported to New York for burial at request of his mother. Sammy Ayala Veteran Puerto Rican singer and percussionist Sammy Ayala, known for his work in the folk genres of bomba and plena, died of cancer on November 23, 2012. He was 79. One of Ayala’s last concerts was at a major music festival last year in Old San Juan, where he performed with the Puerto Rican band Plena Libre led by bassist Gary Nuñez. Ayala contributed throughout his life to the development of Puerto Rican music, especially the Afro-Puerto Rican genres of bomba and plena. Ayala is best remembered for his work beginning in 1954 as a singer and percussionist with Rafael Cortijo’s orchestra, one of the island’s most successful bands of that era. Debbie Delgado-Vega While working as a Wall Street broker’s assistant in 1992, Debbie Delgado-Vega was diagnosed with autoimmune liver disease at the age of 29. She searched for Spanish-language materials that could explain liver disease and organ donation to her family and friends only to fi nd that these materials did not exist. Recognizing the need to educate the growing Spanish-speaking population about liver disease, she enlisted legislators, health professionals, and community leaders to help address this critical issue. While waiting for a lifesaving liver transplant, Debbie founded the Latino Organization for Liver Awareness (LOLA). It was the fi rst national, bilingual/bicultural voluntary organization to serve the Latino American communities and other underserved populations who suffer from liver disease. As the Executive Director, Debbie led the organization and acted as its primary spokesperson. Debbie was faced with her liver disease battle again after her fi rst transplant. She became one of the few lucky recipients of a second liver transplant. With newfound energy, she worked aggressively to lead LOLA in educating the public and advocating for legislation at all levels. LOLA’s outreach and awareness campaigns have reached nearly 13 million people in over 30 states. In addition, their bilingual services have helped 50,000 Latinos who might have died without organ donation information, services and programs. Debgbie also collaborated with other similar interest organizations, including the NYS Department of Health, Extended Liver Criteria Committee, The Na- tional Hepatitis Roundtable and the National Coalition on Organ Donation. Debbie passed away in July 2013. Eddie “La Bala” Perez Saxophone player Eddie “La Bala” Perez, a founding member of renowned salsa band El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, died on August 9, 2013, in Puerto Rican hospital from a blood infection following the amputation of his right leg due to complications from diabetes. Perez made his debut at age 13 and had played the saxophone for more than 60 years. He was 77 years old. Perez was one of the two remaining original members of El Gran Combo, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. His nickname, “La Bala” (The Bullet), came from some grownup who started calling him that because he ran around so fast when he was a little boy. Last December, during an interview with EFE, the musician recalled his fi rst musical instrument was the fl ute but that he didn’t really like it, replacing it with the clarinet. But he fi nally decided on the saxophone because it was easier to play. It was that instrument that took him all over the world representing Puerto Rico in a more than 60 years career. El Gran Combo was founded in 1962 by Ithier, Perez and Roberto Roena, after the three musicians broke with Rafael Cortijo’s band, with which they played for eight years. Throughout its career, El Gran Combo released 40 albums and won a Grammy award for Best Tropical Album in 2003. 71 Ibrahim Gonzalez, a Bronx artist, activist and musician known for his work in community television and radio, died in his sleep on June 4, 2013 at age 57. He became a presence on local cable access channel Bronxnet and hosted two programs on radio station WBAI-FM in NY. His television show featured his musical abilities and highlighted Gonzalez’ love of travel and ethnic foods. His radio work mixed talk and music, and focused heavily on the city’s Latin culture. While attending City College of New York, in the 1970s, Gonzalez protested tuition hikes. He later co-founded Alianza Islamica, one of the nation’s fi rst Islamic- Latino organizations. Gonzalez was a longtime producer and on-air personality at the Pacifi ca network’s WBAI-FM. He joined WBAI in 1990. During his time with the station, he hosted and produced programs including: In the Moment, Radio Libre! and Wake Up Call. A prominent fi gure in both the Latino and Muslim New York communities, Gonzalez often advocated for increased Latino-oriented on-air programming. He was known as the “Mambo Dervish” for the conga skills he displayed during his frequent musical performances. Ibrahim brought lots of excitement and positive challenges with his views, ideas, inspiration and always positive outlook for the future of WBAI. Gonzalez is survived by his wife, Janet Norquist-Gonzalez, as well as four brothers, fi ve children and eleven grandchildren. Victoria Leigh Soto Victoria Leigh “Vicki” Soto (November 4, 1985 – December 14, 2012) was an American teacher who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. After the gunman entered the school, Soto hid her students, then died trying to protect them, and has since been hailed as a hero. She is a posthumous recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal. Plans and petitions to honor her by name via scholarships, roads, and schools were announced in late 2012 and 2013. The Stratford Town Council unanimously approved a resolution to name a school after Soto and the city of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, birthplace of Soto’s father, is planning to name a public facility after her. On December 14, 2012, Soto was teaching her fi rst grade class at Sandy Hook Elementary School when Adam Lanza forced his way into the school and began to shoot staff and students. After killing fi fteen students and two teachers in the fi rst classroom Lanza entered Soto’s classroom. Soto had hidden several children in a closet, and when Lanza entered her classroom, she told him that the children were in the auditorium. When several children ran from their hiding places, Lanza began shooting the students. Soto was shot after she “threw herself in front of her fi rst grade students.” Victoria’s Legacy In December 2012, Eastern Connecticut State University announced the creation of the Victoria Leigh Soto Endowed Memorial Scholarship Fund, awarded to students who aspire to become teachers. In December 2012, residents started a petition to rename North Parade in Stratford, Connecticut, to “Victoria Soto Way.” On December 17, 2012, the Stratford High School Class of 2003 established the “Victoria L. Soto Memorial Fund” in her honor. The fund will use the donations made to help pay for the funeral services and for the creation of a memorial at Stratford High School and a scholarship fund in the name of Soto, a former classmate who belonged to the Class of 2003. On January 14, 2013, the mayor of Stratford proposed the naming of a local school as the Victoria Soto Elementary School, with construction starting in 2013. The mayor’s proposal was unanimously approved by the Stratford Town Council. The mayor also stated that a fund will be set up to accept donations from those who want to contribute to a memorial, which may include a statue of Soto. The City of Bayamón, Puerto Rico is planning to name a public facility after Soto, whose paternal family was originally from Puerto Rico’s second-most populous city. On February 15, 2013, Soto and the other fi ve adult teachers and administrators who were killed were posthumously awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal.[ The medal honors Americans who have performed “exemplary deeds of service” for their country or fellow citizens. The medal is commonly recognized as the government’s second- highest civilian award and was presented to the families of the victims by President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony. The Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters organization created the “Victoria Soto Volunteer Award” in honor of Soto who was a former Nutmeg mentor. On April 25, 2013, Ana Robles, a Nutmeg mentor, became the fi rst recipient of the award. In June 2013, a playground in Long Brook Park in Stratford was named the “Victoria Soto Memorial Playground” in her honor.

72 Calendar of Events

Month Long Events

El Museo del Barrio presents La Bienal 2013: HERE IS WHERE WE JUMP, This year marks the seventh edition of El Museo’s biennial exhibition featuring works by Latino and Latin-American artists, from newly- minted to mid-career, who live and work in the greater metropolitan area of NYC. The exhibition was designed to give artists the opportunity to make the public aware of their work. It features new works by artists who have never shown at El Museo. La Bienal is on view through 1/4/14. Las Galerías, El Museo del Barrio: 1230 5th Avenue at 104th Street, NY. Museum hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 11AM – 6PM. Adults $9, students and seniors $5, members and children under 12 Free. Free every third Saturday of the month. Seniors Free on Wednesdays. For information call: (212) 831-7272 or visit: www.elmuseo.org.

International Puerto Rican Heritage Film Festival (IPRHFF) presents the 3rd International Puerto Rican Heritage Film Festival (11/13/13 – 11/17/13). The 2013 IPRHFF will showcase pioneering, historically significant films and documentaries, contemporary shorts and features, and other innovative films from 11/13/13 – 11/17/13 at different venues. Actress Lauren Velez is the official 2013 IPRHFF Spokesperson. Every film will feature Puerto Rico and its people in key production roles, from behind the scenes to the front of the screen. Finally, receptions and after-parties throughout the weekend will give participants an opportunity to celebrate their Heritage and network with other industry professionals. To view festival calendar and purchase tickets visit: www.iprhff.com.

Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) and Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural & Educational Center presents MURAL Grooves - Featuring work by Silvio de la Cruz, María Domínguez, Miguel Luciano, Juan Angel Román (Nepo) and Juan Fernando Morales. A series of indoor murals at The Clemente commemorating Latin Music in the United States as part of the BORIMIX‘13, homage to Puerto Rican composer, RAFAEL HERNANDEZ, “El Jibarito!” The Clemente, 107 Suffolk Street, NY. Free. For information visit: www.teatrosea. org or call:(212) 529-1545.

Taller Boricua presents ILLUSIVE SELF: PHOTO EXHIBIT. A new photo-based mixed media show curated by Fernando Salicrup and Berette Macaulay (SeBiArt). A group show. Artists shown must be working in photography, film, or photo-based mixed media. The theme is an open interpretative visual conversation of the pycho-social negotiations of immigrant identity retention, destruction, and (re)creation. It examines how one’s expression of self is perpetually in a state of adaptation and change in the new home country and eventually also in one’s place of origin. Opens 11/1513 and is on view until 12/14/13. Julia De Burgos Cultural Center, 1680 Lexington Avenue, NY. Free. For information visit: www.tallerboricua.org.

Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA), Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural & Educational Center and Center for Puerto Rican studies presents POSTERS ON THE WALL: OUR NU-YO-RICAN STORY: Highlights of the Puerto Rican Silkscreen Tradition. Curated by Miguel Trelles with Juan Fernando Morales. Art from the 1960s to the 1990s, the Graphic Collection illustrates the rich and diverse work of Puerto Rican artists, the New York cultural scene and constitutes an eloquent visual narrative of a fascinating diaspora. Abrazo Interno Gallery, The Clemente, 107 Suffolk Street, NY. Free. For information visit: www.teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545.

Empire State College presents “Fiesta Americana” an art exhibition celebrating the diverse cultures of the New World. On view until 12/20/13 Livingston Gallery, 177 Livingston Street, 6th Fl., Bklyn, NY. Gallery hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 10AM – 4PM. Free. For information visit: www.esc.edu.

Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. SEA presents the exhibition NUNITO AND PLANETA SEA by José López and Dr. Manuel Morán. This exhibition presents Nunito and his evolution throughout the years as SEA’s mascot. Follow the journey of the creative process from the original drafts to his own TV Show. Teatro SEA, 107 Suffolk Street, NY. Free. For information visit: www.teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. 73 The Bronx Museum of the Arts presents ORCHARD BEACH: THE BRONX RIVIERA. The Bronx is considered one of the most diverse communities in America, as well as the home of Hip Hop and Salsa. Exhibition on view until 2/16/14. The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY. Museums hours: Thursdays – Sundays, 11AM – 6PM; Fridays until 8PM. Adults $5, students $3, members and children under 12 Free. Seniors Free on Fridays. For information visit: www.bronxmuseum.org.

El Taller Latino Americano presents COMMON GROUNDS - COFFEE INSPIRED ART FROM AROUND THE WORLD. Opens 11/6/13 – 12/2/13. Showcasing traditional and contemporary artists, this exhibition aims to increase awareness of the economic, political, environmental and social impact of the coffee trade in communities around the world. The show features works in an assortment of styles, including meticulously detailed oil paintings by artists from the Mayan villages of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, as well as humorous, conceptual and political works in drawing, collage, photography, ceramic and animation created by a diverse group of international artists. The Grady Alexis Gallery, El Taller Latino Americano, 2710 Broadway, NYC. Gallery Hours: Mon – Thurs: 10AM-6PM, Sat: 10AM – 1PM. Free. For information visit: www.tallerlatino.org.

Brooklyn Museum presents BEHIND CLOSED DOORS: ART IN THE SPANISH AMERICAN HOME, 1492– 1898. The first major exhibition in the United States to explore the private lives and interiors of Spain’s New World elite from 1492 through the nineteenth century, focusing on the house as a principal repository of fine and decorative art. On view until 1/12/14. Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Bklyn, NY. Museum hours: Tues – Sun: 11AM – 6PM; Adults $12, students and seniors $8, members and children under 12 Free. For information: www.brooklynmuseum.org.

The Hostos Center for the Arts and Culture and the Longwood Art Gallery@ Hostos College presents EL DIARIO/LA PRENSA 100TH ANNIVERSAY CELEBRATION, IN THE HEADLINES: LATINO NEW YORKERS 1980-2001. In the Main Gallery, this exhibition of over 40 photographs, news articles, and historic front pages from El Diario/ La Prensa, the longest-publishing Spanish language daily newspaper in the United States, chronicles the growth and transformation of the Hispanic Community in The Bronx from the early revitalization of the borough in the 1980s, through September 11, 2001. In the Project Gallery: ESTHER PAGAN: MY COLORS OF CANCER. My Colors of Cancer is a multi-media installation of photographs, hand-crafted hats, sculpture and poetry. The show is activated online through Ms. Pagan’s interactive web blog mycolorsofcancer.com. Esther was forever changed by breast cancer, especially after receiving the diagnosis over the telephone following a routine medical examination in 2012. This exhibit invites us to share as it celebrates her life, artistry and ultimate beauty created from personal struggle. Exhibits on view until 12/20/13. Gallery hours Mon – Fri 10AM – 6PM and Sat: 10AM – 2PM. Free. The Longwood Art Gallery, Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street Bronx, NY. For information call: (718) 518-4455.

The Americas Society presents CRISTÓBAL LEHYT’S IRIS SHEETS, Curated by Gabriela Rangel and Christina De León. Cristóbal Lehyt’s (b. 1973) approach to site-specificity questions the immediate perception of sight (and the site) as a device of cultural translation: what you see is not what you get. For Lehyt, site- specific sculpture occupies the exhibition space as a phenomenological difficulty rather than an encounter with the audience. Exhibition on view until Dec 14, 2013. Free and open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 12PM – 6PM. The Americas Society, 680 Park Avenue, NY. For information visit: www.americas- society.org.

International Coquito Tasting Federation presents the 2013 Coquito Masters Competition. Since 2001, the annual coquito making contest where contestants compete for the title of Coquito Masters has been the go to event for coquito makers from around the county. Qualifiers will be held around the city and the borough winners will participate in the finals for the title. This year new features include the Fusion Flavor Category, the Coquito Marqueta, the Coquito Taste Trolley, the state run off and the Coquito Pairing event. Our mission is to promotes and preserve coquito to celebrate Puerto Rican culinary excellence! Everyone is a judge and the highest scored coquito wins. Registration Fee: $25. Contact: Debbie Quinones, Coquitomasters@gmail. com or (917) 287-4964.

74 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2013 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2013 The Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute with community artists COMITÉ NOVIEMBRE ANNUAL Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture Without Adrian “Viajero” Román and Ben “Borish” PUERTO RICAN HERITAGE MONTH Borders presents DAY OF THE DEAD/ Rojas presents a Dia de los Muertos KICK-OFF EVENT, honoring the unsung DIA DE MUERTOS . Day of the Dead Community Altar in El Barrio. This year’s heroes of our community through “Lo has been one of Mexico’s most important interactive altar will explore the reasons Mejor de Nuestra Comunidad” Awards, festivals since Pre-Hispanic times. It is a why people migrate and honor those who CN scholars and Richie Perez Scholarship time for families to gather and welcome have died while in transit while providing for Peace and Justice recipient, the the souls of the dead on their annual visit a live performance aspect that will allow unveiling of the poster and calendar home. St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, viewers to become participants. A program journal and recognition of the 2013 CN 131 East 10th Street, NYC. 12PM. Free. of events includes intergenerational Spokesperson Marybeth Melendez, For information visit: www.manoamano. workshops where participants will be able graduate student at College of Staten us. to create memory boxes to add to the Island. Through Lo Mejor award, CN altar, performances, screening of a short recognizes outstanding individuals who El Museo del Barrio Presents Dia de process video followed by a Q & A with the are the unsung heroes of our community. Los Muertos Junior Council Celebration. artists and a multicultural panel. Julia De These awards honor Puerto Ricans El Museo’s Junior Council invites you to Burgos Cultural Center, 1680 Lexington whose pride in their heritage and strength celebrate Día de los Muertos. This annual Avenue, NY. For information contact: of character have empowered themselves fundraising benefi t will feature a dazzling (212)307-7420 or visit: [email protected]. and inspired others to make a signifi cant artist-created altar by Yaocihuatzin, impact on our community. Individuals are curated by Chief Curator of El Museo, Repertorio Español presents El amor chosen by nominations submitted by the Chus Martínez, a perfomance by Latin– en los tiempos del cólera. Based on community. The 2013 Lo Mejor recipients fusion star Xenia Rubinos, music by DJ Gabriel García Márquez’s Nobel Prize are: Roberto “Mukaro” Borrero, president, David Lipke and Kyra Caruso, a fabulous Winning novel, this lyrical, imagistic United Confederation of Taíno People, silent auction, and special holiday food play focuses on an extraordinary love Sery Colón, producer, director, actor, poet, and drink, including Pan de Muertos. story between a poetically-inclined man community activist, Dr. Carlos Conde, This year, El Museo’s Honorary Artist named Florentino Ariza and a sensual, Opera Artist, Cultural Developer/Professor Committee members are David Antonio practical yet somewhat elusive woman of Voice, Brooklyn Conservatory, Brooklyn Cruz, Alex Nuñez, Alejandra Regalado, named Fermina Daza. Spanning fi fty College, CUNY, Elizabeth Figueroa, Angel Otero, Maria Cristina Marrero, years of time, the story plays out in a Director of Community Relations, NY Rafael Esquer. Siempre Mujer is the series of short scenic episodes fi lled with Botanical Gardens, Elena Martinez, Offi cial Media Partner. Mexico Tourism poetry, song, movement and heightened folklorist, City Lore, Bill Pacheco, Founder, Board is an event partner as is Veuve moments of theatricality. A daring four- WEPAVILLE, Al Quiñones, Founder, 52 Cliquot, which is providing the evening’s actor tour-de-force piece for the theatre. People for Progress, Inc., Juan “Papo full complement of spirits. Event proceeds Presented in Spanish with English and Swiggity” Santiago, co-founder, Capicu will benefi t El Museo’s arts and education Spanish subtitles. Recommended for adult Poetry & Cultural Showcase and Manny programs. El Museo Del Barrio - El audiences.The Gramercy Arts Theatre, Vega, artist and community activist. El Café, Lobby and Las Galerías, 1230 5th 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. Tickets Museo del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Avenue, Avenue, NY. 6PM – 12AM. Fees vary, begin at $33, with discounts available Heckscher Theater, NY. Presentations: RSVP required. For information and ticket for seniors, students, and groups. For 6PM – 7:30PM; Terrence Cardinal Cooke contact: Lauren Radin, lradin@elmuseo. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: Health Care Center, 1249 Fifth Avenue, org or call: (212) 660-7139. www.repertorio.org. Auditorium, Reception: 7:30PM – 9:30PM. By invitation only. For information call: Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2013 (914) 263-6599. presents MEGA CONCERT IN HONOR OF RAFAEL HERNANDEZ. To kick- Bronx Zoo presents Boo at the Zoo, all day WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2013 off Puerto Rican Heritage Month, Halloween activitieseature hay mazes, Hostos Center is proud to present this costume parades, musical theater, magic, The Institute for The Puerto Rican/ unprecedented mega concert honoring and more. Visit bats, owls, vultures and Hispanic Elderly Elderly (IPR/HE) and Puerto Rico’s greatest composer, with other winged icons of Halloween, then the Hispanic Senior Action Council multi-Grammy nominated Bobby Sanabria embark on a trip back in time as you ride presents the 36th Annual Empowerment leading his 19-piece Big Band in Latin jazz our Dinosaur Safari! 11AM – 4:30PM. $23 Conference for Hispanic/Minority Seniors. treatments of Rafael Hernández’s most – $30 (10% savings if purchased online). Every year, over 2,000 seniors from celebrated works, including “Preciosa”, For information or directions to the Zoo New York City attend this Conference to “El Cumbanchero,” “Cachita,” and many visit: www.bronxzoo.com. show their strength and hear the latest more. Joining Bobby will be the Bronx Arts information on issues that directly impact Ensemble’s 10-piece string section and the Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture Without their well being and the quality of life in their 319th U.S. Army Band in tribute to Rafael Borders presents DAY OF THE DEAD/ communities. This year’s theme: Facing Hernández’s service in the legendary DIA DE MUERTOS . Day of the Dead Change Together/Unidos Enfrentando “Harlem Hellfi ghters”. A phenomenal has been one of Mexico’s most important Los Cambios focuses on such topics as evening of modern contemporary Latin festivals since Pre-Hispanic times. It is a the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare), jazz, history, remembrance for music time for families to gather and welcome patient rights, breakthroughs in memory afi cionados everywhere! Hostos Center the souls of the dead on their annual visit loss and brain function, economic security, for the Arts and Culture, 450 Grand home. St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, Medicare and Medicaid, elder abuse, Concourse at 149th Street, Bronx NY. 131 East 10th Street, NY.12PM. Free. For advocacy, voting rights, and more. James 7:30PM. $25 – $35. For information and information visit: www.manoamano.us. Weldon Johnson Community Center, NY. tickets call: (718) 518-4455 or visit the 8AM – 2PM. Free. For information call: Hostos Box Offi ce on Mon – Fri, 12:30PM The Caribbean Cultural Center African (212) 677-4181. – 6:30PM and two hours before show Diaspora Institute with community artists time. Adrian “Viajero” Román and Ben “Borish” Rojas presents a Dia de los Muertos 75 Community Altar in El Barrio. This year’s Queen Liliuokalani to today’s street-wise by Jorge Alí Triana. Performed around the interactive altar will explore the reasons poets. Pregones Theatre,571-575 Walton world to enthusiastic critical and audience why people migrate and honor those who Ave, Bronx. 8PM. $40 Advance, $60 acclaim, Cita a ciegas is a compelling and have died while in transit while providing Door. For information call: (718) 585-1202 riveting play about chance encounters. a live performance aspect that will allow or visit: http://www.pregones.org. Performed in Spanish with subtitles in viewers to become participants. A program English & Spanish via Simultext® In- of events includes intergenerational SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2013 Seat Captioning System. The Gramercy workshops where participants will be able Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. to create memory boxes to add to the Bronx Zoo presents Boo at the Zoo, all day 6:30PM. $27. For reservations call: (212) altar, performances, screening of a short Halloween activitieseature hay mazes, 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. process video followed by a Q & A with the costume parades, musical theater, magic, artists and a multicultural panel. Julia De and more. Visit bats, owls, vultures and MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2013 Burgos Cultural Center| 1680 Lexington other winged icons of Halloween, then Avenue, NY. For information contact: embark on a trip back in time as you ride Repertorio Español presents the MetLife (212) 307-7420 or visit: [email protected]. our Dinosaur Safari! 11AM – 4:30PM. $23 Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 – $30 (10% savings if purchased online). Reading Series, a Reading of submitted Repertorio Español presents La Casa de For information or directions to the Zoo works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, directed visit: www.bronxzoo.com. National Playwriting Competition. The by René Buch. Bernarda Alba attempts to goal of this annual initiative is to identify dominate and control her fi ve unmarried Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture Without and develop the work of talented daughters. In this repressed environment, Borders presents DAY OF THE DEAD/ playwrights and highlight the Hispanic/ Lorca creates an explosion of hatred, DIA DE MUERTOS . Day of the Dead Latino experience in the United States. jealousy, despair and passion. The has been one of Mexico’s most important Echoing the Company’s original mission, Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th festivals since Pre-Hispanic times. It is a these plays represent a cross section Street, NY. 3PM. $25 – $50 with discounts time for families to gather and welcome of nationalities and explores subjects available for seniors, students, children the souls of the dead on their annual visit and themes important to the Hispanic and groups. For reservations call: (212) home. St. Mark’s Church in-the-Bowery, community. The winning play will be 225-9999 or www.repertorio.org. 131 East 10th Street, NY. 12PM. Free. produced at Repertorio Español. For For information visit: www.manoamano. more information on Nuestras Voces Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. us. please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. All (SEA) presents La Cucarachita Martina/ readings are free and open to the public. Martina the Little Roach. A Latin Rock ‘n’ Repertorio Español presents La Nena The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Roll musical based on a popular Cuban Se Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by Street, NY. 6:30PM. For reservations call: and Puerto Rican children’s tale about a Jose Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. little roach who learns many lessons on cruel comedy about a desperate father org. her journey to fi nd true love Teatro SEA, who will do absolutely anything to marry 107 Suffolk Street, NY. 3PM. adults $18. off one of his three spinster daughters. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2013 children $15. For information visit: www. Love is blind and in this case, it’s blind, teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. dangerous, and hilarious! Full of wit, wild Repertorio Español presents El Quijote. characters, and plenty of over the top A carnivalesque adaptation of Cervantes’ Repertorio Español presents Cita a twists and turns; this play is a wicked masterpiece. Through Don Quijote’s Ciegas (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, look at the absurd choices people can adventures, the production presents the directed by Jorge Alí Triana. Performed make to maintain social appearances. illusion of an utopian world with a festive around the world to enthusiastic critical Performed in Spanish with subtitles in and colorful spirit. The play is a collection and audience acclaim, Cita a ciegas English & Spanish via Simultext® In- of 12 scenes that present different stories is a compelling and riveting play about Seat Captioning System. The Gramercy based on the original text of Cervantes. chance encounters. An intricate puzzle Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East of passions, destinies, and coincidences 2:30PM. $27. For reservations call: (212) 27th Street, NYC. 11AM. $25-$50 with seduces audiences into a world fi lled with 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. discounts available for seniors, students, unrequited love, dangerous obsessions, groups. For reservations call: (212) 225- and the thought of what-might-have-been. Pregones Theater presents Aloha Boricua 9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. Performed in Spanish with subtitles in - A special benefi t concert featuring Flaco English & Spanish via Simultext® In-Seat Navaja. The rhythms of traditional Puerto WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2013 Captioning System. The Gramercy Arts Rican music and urban reggaetón collide Theatre, 138 East 27th Street NY. 8PM. in this song-driven rendition of the historic Repertorio Español presents Nobel Prize $27. For reservations, call (212) 225-9999 migration of Puerto Ricans to Hawaii. Winner Gabriel García Márquez’ Cronica or www.repertorio.org. Adapted by Pregones’ Jorge B. Merced de una Muerte Anunciada (Chronicle of from Vivir del cuento, by legendary writer a Death Foretold). Directed by Jorge Alí Pregones Theater presents Aloha Boricua and gay icon Manuel Ramos Otero, Triana.A spectacular wedding, a savage - A special benefi t concert featuring Flaco the production weaves the voices of scandal, and a murder to which an entire Navaja. The rhythms of traditional Puerto multiple generations, including the sugar Latin American town appears to be an Rican music and urban reggaetón collide cane workers who fi rst embarked on a accessory to the fact.The Gramercy Art in this song-driven rendition of the historic transoceanic trip in 1900 to Hawaiian Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. migration of Puerto Ricans to Hawaii. Queen Liliuokalani to today’s street-wise Discount available for seniors, students, Adapted by Pregones’ Jorge B. Merced poets. Pregones Theatre, 571-575 Walton groups. For reservations call: (212) 225- from Vivir del cuento, by legendary writer Avenue, Bronx, NY. 3PM. $40 Advance, 9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. and gay icon Manuel Ramos Otero, $60 Door. For information call: (718) 585- the production weaves the voices of 1202 or visit: http://www.pregones.org. Bronx Museum presents BCA Bronx multiple generations, including the sugar Culture Trolley Night - Readings and cane workers who fi rst embarked on a Repertorio Español presents Cita a Ciegas Conversations. Hop off the BCA’s Bronx transoceanic trip in 1900 to Hawaiian (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, directed Culture Trolley at BxMA and hear Bronx 76 author Rev. Pura M. De Jesus-Coniglio by artists from the Mayan villages of 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org. discuss her recent book The Bronx: Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, as well as Exposing its True DNA & Breaking the humorous, conceptual and political works FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2013 Stigma. FREE guided tours of the in drawing, collage, photography, ceramic galleries. The Bronx Museum of the and animation created by a diverse group Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY. of international artists. The Grady Alexis (SEA) presents La Cucarachita Martina/ 5:30PM – 7:30PM. Free. For information, Gallery, El Taller Latino Americano, 2710 Martina the Little Roach. A Latin Rock ‘n’ visit: www.bronxmuseum.org. Broadway, NY. 8PM. Free. For information Roll musical based on a popular Cuban visitL www.tallerlatino.org. and Puerto Rican children’s tale about a El Museo del Barrio Presents ORGANIC little roach who learns many lessons on MAGNETICS: Works-in-Progress. An THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2013 her journey to fi nd true love Teatro SEA, intimate theatrical reading of I Am New 107 Suffolk Street, NY. 3PM. adults $18, York: Juan Rodriguez with artists-in- Repertorio Español presents La Casa children $15. For information visit: www. residence Maija Garcia and Armando de Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. Batista of Organic Magnetics. I Am New directed by René Buch. Bernarda Alba York: Juan Rodriguez imagines the story attempts to dominate and control her fi ve Bronx Museum’s Community Advisory of a free man of mixed-race origin from unmarried daughters. In this repressed Council and Coquito Masters International Hispaniola who, in 1613, became the fi rst environment. Performances presented in presents Coquito Masters Qualifying at “immigrant” of New York City. Organic Spanish simultaneous English translation 1040 Lounge event and Live Painting Magnetics director Maija Garcia and via headphones available for an additional Competition. The painting competition co-creator Armando Batista transport $3. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East will feature artists Ariel Colon, Dilcia audiences to a seminal moment in history 27th Street, NY. 11AM. $25 – $50 with Gonzalez-Queiro, and Nicholai Khan. to meet an unsung hero; to reconsider discounts available for seniors, students, The Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 what it means to be New Yorkers, and children, groups. For reservations call: Grand Concourse, Bronx, NY. 6:30PM – by extension, Americans. Stay for a talk (212) 225-9999 or www.repertorio.org. 9 PM. Free. For information visit: www. back with the writers and actors. El Museo bronxmuseum.org. Del Barrio – Black Box Theatre, 1230 5th “Music for Dave” A musical tribute to Dave Avenue, NY. 6PM – 8PM. RSVP required. Valentin @ the Tarrytown Music Hall. On Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. For information visit: elmuseo.org. March 3, 2012, Latin Jazz Flutist and (SEA) and TTO Entertainment LLC Grammy Award Winner, Dave Valentin, presents Growing Up Gonzalez by Felix Repertorio Español presents the MetLife suffered a stroke that has limited his Rojas, starring Andres Chulisi Rodriguez Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 ability to perform his beloved instrument. . “Overfl owing with colorful detail and Reading Series, a Reading of submitted The native New Yorker has been in smartly observed anecdotes, this one works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces physical therapy since that tragic day. man show is an affectionate,funny, and National Playwriting Competition. The There is a chance that he may be able to spicily authentic collage of growing up goal of this annual initiative is to identify wow his audiences on stage worldwide Puerto Rican in the Bronx in the 1970s.” and develop the work of talented again, but not before he’s the benefi ciary Teatro SEA, 107 Suffolk Street, NYC. playwrights and highlight the Hispanic / of some more critical physical therapy. 8PM. $30/ students $25/ seniors, groups Latino experience in the United States. In the interim, his medical bills have over 10, $20. For information visit: www. Echoing the Company’s original mission, climbing through the roof. Dave Valentin teatrosea.org or call (212) 529-1545. these plays represent a cross section has insuffi cient medical insurance to of nationalities and explores subjects cover the enormous bills surrounding Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play and themes important to the Hispanic his stroke. Performing in tribute will be by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed community. The winning play will be an array of Jazz greats: Bill O’Connell by David Mendizábal. A full length play produced at Repertorio Español. For (Piano), Lincoln Goines (Bass), Robby in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves more information on Nuestras Voces Ameen (Drums), Ragan Whiteside a magical love story between brothers please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. All (Flute), Bob Baldwin (Piano/Keyboards), connected in mystical yet oddly familiar readings are free and open to the public. Chieli Minucci (Guitar), Dave Samuels ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th (Vibes), Mayra Casales, (Percussion), 204th St, NYC. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ Street, NY. 6:30PM. For reservations call: Richie Flores (Congas), Eddie Montalvo seniors. For information call: (646) 296- (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. (Congas), Bobby Sanabria, (Percussion) 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org org. and Gilberto Pulpo Colon. Jr., (Piano), Musicians list still in formation. Watch The Repertorio Español presents En El Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play YouTube Promo, A Dave Valentin Tribute/ Tiempo de las Mariposas, A new play by by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed Tarrytown Music Hall - 11/7/13, Out-of- Caridad Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s by David Mendizábal. A full length play towners and those unable to attend are novel, directed by José Zayas. “In The in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves still encouraged to buy a balcony seat Time of the Butterfl ies” is the story of a magical love story between brothers ticket to help support the cause! The the courageous Mirabal sisters (Patria, connected in ways mystical yet oddly Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main Street, Minerva and María Teresa) from the familiar. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 Tarrytown, NY. 7:30PM For information Dominican Republic. The sisters inspired West 204th Street, NY. 8PM. $18; $12 call: (914) 631-3390. resistance cells throughout the country students/seniors. For information: (646) against the dictatorial regime of Gen. 296-3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The ‘butterfl ies’, by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed their secret code name, were brutally El Taller Latino Americano presents Meet by David Mendizábal. A full length play murdered by the regime in 1960. Presented the Artists Reception for the exhibition in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves in Spanish. Live English translation COMMON GROUNDS - COFFEE a magical love story between brothers available. Recommended for adult INSPIRED ART FROM AROUND THE connected in mystical yet oddly familiar audiences. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, WORLD. The show features works ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM.$30, with in an assortment of styles, including 204th St, NYC. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ discounts available for seniors, students, meticulously detailed oil paintings seniors. For iformation call: (646)296- groups. For reservations call: (212) 225- 77 9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. Repertorio Español presents Doña Flor mujer que llevó a cabo, por medio de y sus dos maridos. Doña Flor misses her su presencia al lado de su esposo, una Metropolitan Room presents THE late husband’s passionate intimacy. She labor social, humanística, educativa y SABRINA LASTMAN QUINTET. An re-marries and magical realism allows her conservacionista sin precedentes en la innovative music project that brings to live (and sleep) with her two husbands. historia de nuestro país. Entrada Libre together jazz, South American rhythms The Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 East De Costo. 10AM. Para mas informacion, with African roots like Candombe (Afro- 27th Street, NYC. 8PM. $25 – $55. For Angel Santini (212)677-4181. Uruguayan), and contemporary music. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: CINE-COOP (independent fi lm makers Sabrina expands the possibilities of the www.repertorio.org. in PR), and GFR Media presents “POR voice, fi nding a rich variety of sonorities, AMOR EN EL CASERÍO,” (For Love colors, and textures. Metropolitan Room SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2013 in the Projects). A fi lm based on the life 34 West 22nd Street, NY. 9:30PM. $20, 2 experiences of the youth of el Caserio drink minimum per person. For information Repertorio Español presents Cita a Luis Llorens Torres Filmed on location. visit: www.metropolitanroom.com or www. Ciegas (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, Spanish language with English subtitles. sabrina-lastman.com. directed by Jorge Alí Triana. Cita a ciegas Luis Enrique Rodriguez directs. A Q & A is a compelling and riveting play about panel discussion with the Director and SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2013 chance encounters. Performed in Spanish Actors will follow each screening. Special with subtitles in English & Spanish via Screening at John Jay College of Criminal Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play Simultext® In-Seat Captioning System. Justice, Gerald W. Lynch Theater 524 by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East West 59th Street NY. 6PM R.S.V.P by David Mendizábal. A full length play 27th, NY, 2:30PM. $27. For reservations by email to: [email protected] in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. (R.S.V.P. and Photo I.D. Required). a magical love story between brothers repertorio.org. connected mystical yet oddly familiar North/South Music presents the NORTH ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 West Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) SOUTH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA. The 204th Street, NY. 2PM. $18, $12 students/ and TTO Entertainment LLC presents Grammy nominated North/South Chamber seniors. For information call: (646)296- Growing Up Gonzalez by Felix Rojas, Orchestra under the direction of Max 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org> starring Andres Chulisi Rodriguez . This Lifchitz premiere the Concierto Cubanero one man show is an affectionate,funny, by Cuban guitarist Jose Lezcano with Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. and spicily authentic collage of growing up the composer featured as soloist. Christ (SEA) presents La Cucarachita Martina/ Puerto Rican in the Bronx in the 1970s.”- and St Stephen’s Church, 120 West Martina the Little Roach. A Latin Rock ‘n’ Ron Cohen, Back stage. Teatro SEA, 107 69th Street, NY. 8PM. Free. For more Roll musical based on a popular Cuban Suffolk Street, NY. 6PM. $30/ students information, visit www.northsouthmusic. and Puerto Rican children’s tale about a $25/seniors and groups over 10, $20. For org. little roach who learns many lessons on information: www.teatrosea.org or call: her journey to fi nd true love Teatro SEA, (212) 529-1545. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2013 107 Suffolk Street, NY. 3PM. adults $18. children $15. For information visit: www. Repertorio Español presents Bésame CINE-COOP (independent fi lm makers teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. Mucho:Latinas sing Latinas. Pablo Zinger, in PR), and GFR Media presents “POR musical director, celebrates the musical AMOR EN EL CASERÍO,” (For Love Repertorio Español Presents: La Gringa, contributions of female composers from in the Projects). A fi lm based on the life by Carmen Rivera and directed by Rene Latin America. This anthology of songs experiences of the youth of el Caserio Buch. María arrives in Puerto Rico and is by female Latin American composers Luis Llorens Filmed on location. Spanish very excited about seeing “her homeland.” includes songs by Sylvia Rexach (Puerto language with English subtitles. Luis As she visits her uncle in Puerto Rico she Rico), María Grever and Consuelo Enrique Rodriguez directs. A Q & A panel is faced with many questions about being Velásquez (México), Isolina Carrillo and discussion with the Director and Actors will Puerto Rican. It is a story about cultural Ernestina Lecuona (Cuba), Chabuca follow each screening. Special Screening identity and family. The Gramercy Arts Granda (Perú), Violeta Parra (Chile) and at Lehman College Lovinger Theater, 250 Theatre, 138 East 27th Street NY. 3PM. Eladia Blázquez and María Elena Walsh Bedford Park Blvd, Bronx. 2PM R.S.V.P. $25 – $55. For reservations call: (212) (Argentina). The Gramercy Arts Theatre, by email to: info@poramorenelcaserio. 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. 138 East 27th Street, NY. 6:30PM. $33, com. Entranced guaranteed with email with discounts available for seniors, confi rmation. International Coquito Tasting Federation students, and groups. For reservations and Bungalow 31 presents 2013 Coquito call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. The LEGACY of RAFAEL HERNANDEZ Masters Competition. Bungalow 31, 58- repertorio.org. in NEW YORK CITY: A PANEL 05 31st Ave, Woodside, NY. 6:15PM – 8 PRESENTATION. The legacy of this PM. For information call: (718) 204-5200 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013 amazing Puerto Rican artist will be discussed and presented by a panel of Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) Instituto Puertorriqueño/Hispano Para distinguished guests, including musician and TTO Entertainment LLC presents Personas Mayores Y Concilio De Accion ‘Chali’ Hernández (Rafael Hernandez’s Growing Up Gonzalez by Felix Rojas, Hispana Para Personas Mayores son). Center for Puerto Rican Studies - starring Andres Chulisi Rodriguez . This Presentan La Pelicula Documental Doña Hunter College Glass Café, West Building, one man show is an affectionate,funny, Ines Maria Mendoza-La Palabra Como 3rd Fl. 68th Street. 6PM. Free. For more and spicily authentic collage of growing up Destino. La Fundación Luis Muñoz Marín information visit: www.teatrosea.org or Puerto Rican in the Bronx in the 1970s.” ha producido el documental titulado Inés call: (212) 529-1545. Ron Cohen, Back stage. Teatro SEA, 107 María Mendoza: La Palabra Como Destino, Suffolk Street, NY. 8PM. $30/ Students proyecto comenzado en el año 2008 con Repertorio Español presents the MetLife $25/seniors & groups over 10, $20. For motivo del centenario del natalicio de Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 information visit: www.teatrosea.org or doña Inés. Este proyecto documental Reading Series, a Reading of submitted call: (212) 529-1545. tiene como objetivo el dar a conocer works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces la vida y obra de esta extraordinaria National Playwriting Competition. The 78 goal of this annual initiative is to identify Escape Valve. A view of Puerto Rican adventures, the production presents and develop the work of talented migration from the departure of Puerto the illusion of an utopian world with a playwrights and highlight the Hispanic / Rico’s workers to Hawaii in the early 20th festive and colorful spirit. El Quijote is a Latino experience in the United States. Century to the more recent movement to polyphonic play in which many different Echoing the Company’s original mission, Central Florida. Presenter: Mariel Marrero genres such as comedy, tragedy and these plays represent a cross section García, producer. Hunter College, 68th farce collide to form a carnival-like and of nationalities and explores subjects Street, West Building, Faculty Dining vibrant Don Quijote that is rich in its and themes important to the Hispanic Room, 8th Fl. 6PM. Free. For information musicality.” The play is a collection of community. The winning play will be visit: www.centropr.hunter.cuny.edu. 12 scenes that present different stories produced at Repertorio Español. For based on the original text of Cervantes. more information on Nuestras Voces Repertorio Español presents the MetLife The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 St., NY. 11AM. $25 – $50 with discounts All readings are free and open to the Reading Series, a Reading of submitted available for seniors, students, groups. public. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces For reservations, call: (212) 225-9999 or East 27th Street, NYC. 6:30PM. For National Playwriting Competition. The visit: www.repertorio.org. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: goal of this annual initiative is to identify www.repertorio.org. and develop the work of talented CINE-COOP (independent fi lm makers playwrights and highlight the Hispanic / in PR), and GFR Media presents “POR WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2013 Latino experience in the United States. AMOR EN EL CASERÍO,” (For Love these plays represent a cross section in the Projects). A fi lm based on the life Repertorio Español presents La Casa of nationalities and explores subjects experiences of the youth of el Caserio de Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, and themes important to the Hispanic Luis Llorens Torres Filmed on location. directed by René Buch. Bernarda Alba community. The winning play will be Spanish language with English subtitles. attempts to dominate and control her fi ve produced at Repertorio Español. For Luis Enrique Rodriguez directs. A Q & unmarried daughters. In this repressed more information on Nuestras Voces A panel discussion with the Director environment, Lorca creates an explosion please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. All and Actors will follow each screening. of hatred, jealousy, despair and passion. readings are free and open to the public. Special Screening at Hostos Community Performances presented in Spanish The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th College Repertory Theater, 500 Grand simultaneous English translation via Street, NY. 6:30PM. For reservations call: Concourse, Bronx, NY. 2PM R.S.V.P. headphones available for an additional (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. by email to: info@poramorenelcaserio. $3. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East org. com. Confi rmed tickets will be held at 27th Street, NYC. 11AM. $25 – $50 with the door. Entrance guaranteed with email discounts available for seniors, students, 3rd Annual International Puerto Rican confi rmation. children, groups. For reservations call: Heritage Film Festival (IPRHFF) Opening (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. Reception. Reception, Screening and The 3rd International Puerto Rican org. After party. Actress Lauren Velez is the Heritage Film Festival (IPRHFF) will Offi cial 2013 IPRHFF Spokesperson. Leo showcase pioneering, historically El Museo del Barrio Presents C. Stern Theater at Mount Sinai Health signifi cant fi lms and documentaries, LIBROFORUM: Diez Mujeres, por System, 1190 5th Avenu, NY. 7PM. $25. contemporary shorts and features, and Marcela Serrano. ¿¡Hablemos de libros To view festival calendar and purchase other innovative fi lms at different venues. en español!? Cada mes El Museo del tickets visit: www.iprhff.com. Every fi lm will feature Puerto Rico and Barrio le da la bienvenida a todos aquellos its people in key production roles, from que quieran participar en nuestro club Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) behind the scenes to the front of the de lectura en español. Este mes, nueve presents Short Night/Noche de Cortos. A screen. To view festival calendar and mujeres, muy distintas entre sí y que series of short fi lms. Camino a Europa, purchase tickets visit: www.iprhff.com. nunca se han visto antes, comparten directed and written by Mailara Santana; sus historias. Natasha, su terapeuta, ha Luna Vieja, directed by Raisa Bonnet; Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. decidido reunirlas en la convicción de que La Doble Imagen, written and directed (SEA) Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural & las heridas empiezan a sanar cuando by: Oswaldo Colón-Ortiz; SWEETNESS, Educational Center and Alma Boricua se rompen las cadenas del silencio.No directed by: Joe Lueben and FRANCIA Catering presents BORIMIX 2013 importa el origen ni la extracción social, la 1943, Directed by: Gustavo Sigal. Teatro BUILDINGUAI ARTS CELEBRATION. edad o la profesión: todas acarrean sobre SEA, 107 Suffolk Street, NYC. 7PM. Free. A building wide celebration featuring live sus hombros el peso del miedo, la soledad, For Information call: (212)529-1545 or music, art, poetry, open studios, food and el deseo, las inseguridades. A veces ante visit: www.teatrosea.org. drinks! The Clemente, 107 Suffolk Street, un pasado que no pueden dejar atrás; NY. 6PM. Free. For information visit: otras, ante un presente que no se parece Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play www.teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529- a lo que habrían deseado, o un futuro by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed 1545. que las asusta. Madres, hijas, esposas, by David Mendizábal. A full length play viudas, amantes: guiadas por Natasha, in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) las protagonistas aceptan el desafío de a magical love story between brothers and Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural & comprender y reinventar sus vidas.Una connected in mystical yet oddly familiar Educational Center presents the opening novela que sorprende, conmueve y deja ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W of MURAL Grooves - Featuring work by en vilo: una mirada reveladora y valiente 204th St, NYC. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ Silvio de la Cruz, María Domínguez, Miguel a las relaciones humanas en el mundo seniors. For information: (646)296-3181 Luciano, Juan Angel Román (Nepo) and de hoy. El Museo Del Barrio - Black Box or visit: www.uptheater.org Juan Fernando Morales. A series of indoor Theatre - 1230 5th Avenue, NY. 11AM – murals at The Clemente commemorating 1PM. Free. RSVP required. For THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 Latin Music in the United States as part information visit:elmuseo.org. of the BORIMIX ‘13, homage to Puerto Repertorio Español presents El Quijote. Rican Composer, RAFAEL HERNANDEZ, Centro De Estudios Puertorriqueños A carnivalesque adaptation of Cervantes’ “El Jibarito!”The Clemente, 107 Suffolk presents the fi lm Válvula de Escape/ masterpiece. Through Don Quijote’s Street, NY. 6PM. Free. For information 79 visit: www.teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529- 8PM. Live Entertainment, Black Tie, Make the fi rst time as a special guest will be the 1545. reservations by 11/8/13. For information Dominican Republic’s premier Sonero, call: (914) 263-6599 or (212) 677-4181 or Mr. Cuco Valoy. Aaron Davis Hall, West Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. visit: www.comitenoviembre.org 135th Street & Convent Avenue NY. 7PM. (SEA), Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural $25 & $30 at Aaron Davis Hall Box Offi ce, & Educational Center and Center for Repertorio Español Presents: La Gringa, West 135th Street & Convent Avenue on Puerto Rican studies presents opening by Carmen Rivera and directed by Rene the campus of The City College of New of Posters on the Wall: Our nu-YO-Rican Buch. María arrives in Puerto Rico and is York, For information call (212) 650-6900 Story: Highlights of the Puerto Rican very excited about seeing “her homeland.” or visit: www.adhatccny.org Silkscreen Tradition. Curated by Miguel As she visits her uncle in Puerto Rico she Trelles with Juan Fernando Morales. Art is faced with many questions about being Society of the Educational Arts, Inc.(SEA) from the 1960s to the 1990s, the Graphic Puerto Rican. La Gringa is a story about presents Special Gala performance Collection illustrates the rich and diverse cultural identity and family. The Gramercy of Rafael Hernández…Romance. A work of Puerto Rican artists, the New York Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NYC. Romantic Musical Revue about the life, cultural scene and constitutes an eloquent 11AM. $25 – $55. For reservations call: career and music of one of the greatest visual narrative of a fascinating diaspora. (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. Latin America composers of all time, Abrazo Interno Gallery at The Clemente, org. Rafael Hernández. Teatro SEA, 107 107 Suffolk Street, NY. 6PM. Free. For Suffolk Street, NYC. 8PM. $100, includes information visit: www.teatrosea.org or The 3rd International Puerto Rican reception. For information visit: www. call: (212) 529-1545. Heritage Film Festival (IPRHFF) will teatrosea.org,www.borimix.com or call: showcase pioneering, historically (212)529-1545. Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA signifi cant fi lms and documentaries, presents opening of the exhibition Nunito contemporary shorts and features, and Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play and Planeta SEA by José López and other innovative fi lms at different venues. by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed Dr. Manuel Morán. Curated by Miguel Every fi lm will feature Puerto Rico and by David Mendizábal. A full length play Trelles with Juan Fernando Morales. its people in key production roles, from in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves This exhibition presents Nunito and his behind the scenes to the front of the a magical love story between brothers evolution throughout the years as SEA’s screen. To view festival calendar and connected in mystical yet oddly familiar mascot. Follow thejourney of the creative purchase tickets: www.iprhff.com. ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W process from the original drafts to his own 204th St, NYC. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ TV Show. Teatro SEA, 107 Suffolk Street, Fashion Institute of Technology and seniors. For information call: (646) 296- NYC. 6PM. Free. For information visit: the Consulate General of Spain in NY 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org. www.teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529- presents DRESSING THE SCREEN: 1545. COSTUME DESIGN IN HOLLYWOOD. Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Two celebrated costume designers talk HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play about their careers in fi lm. Delgado new homage to the music and dance of by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed has collaborated with Pedro Almodovar 15 Latin American countries Argentina, by David Mendizábal. A full length play and was nominated for an Academy Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves Award for Les Misérables. Landis, also Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, a magical love story between brothers an Oscar nominee, worked on Michael Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And connected in mystical yet oddly familiar Jackson’s Thriller and curated the recent Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W V & A exhibition, “Hollywood Costume.” A Company with Harold Gutierrez and his 204th St, NYC. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ signing of Landis’s two most recent books Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 seniors. For information call: (646) 296- will follow the presentation. Museum at the Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. 8PM. 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org Fashion Institute of Technology, 227 West $30. For information call: (718)729-3880 27th Street, NY. 6PM. For information or visit: www.thaliatheatre.org. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013 visit: www.spainculturenewyork.org. Repertorio Español presents Nobel Prize COMITÉ NOVIEMBRE...mes de la Opening of Illusive Self: A new photo- Winner Gabriel García Márquez’ Cronica herencia puertorriqueña, Eighteenth based mixed media show at Taller Boricua de una Muerte Anunciada (Chronicle of Annual Gala Benefi t, Celebrating 27 years Gallery. A new photo-based mixed media a Death Foretold). Directed by Jorge Alí of Puerto Rican Culture and Heritage. show curated by Fernando Salicrup and Triana.A spectacular wedding, a savage Honorees are: Giselle Blondet, Actress/ Berette Macaulay (SeBiArt). A group scandal, and a murder to which an entire Host & Humanitarian, Univisión; Luis show of both invited and jury selected Latin American town appears to be an Alberto Ferre Rangel, Editor in Chief / established and emerging artists of accessory to the fact.The Gramercy Grupo Ferre Rangel Media, Board Chair/ fi rst and second immigrant generations Art Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. Agenda Ciudadana, Jason Nieves, Writer, residing in the New York area. Julia De 8PM. $25-$50 with discounts available Producer, The Nieves Company, Luis D. Burgos Cultural Center, 1680 Lexington for seniors, students, groups. For Ortiz, Million Dollar Listing, Douglas Elliman Ave, NY. 6PM. Free. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: Real Estate, Allan Villafaña, News Anchor, www.repertorio.org. Noticiero/Primera Edición, Telemundo/ The City College Center for the Arts in NBC, and 2013 Spokesperson, Marybeth association with The Caribbean Cultural SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2013 Melendez, Graduate Student, College Center African Diaspora Institute presents of Staten Island, Hurricane Sandy & Septeto Nacional de Cuba Ignacio Piñeiro El Museo del Barrio Presents SUPER Volunteer, The proceeds of this event with Cuco Valoy. Septeto Nacional de Cuba SABADO! We ♥ Musica! Music comes will benefi t the Comité Noviembre Ignacio Piñeiro is one of Cuba’s national alive at El Museo with a melodious fun- Scholarship Awards Program, the Richie treasures and has been mastering the fi lled day of musical performances, art- Perez Scholarship for Peace & Justice art of the Cuban son for nearly 86 years, making workshops, storytelling, and a and other annual community programs of celebrating their 2013 Latin Grammy concert by La Chiva Gantiva. Known for CN. The New York Hilton, 1335 Avenue of nomination with an evening of Cuban its energizing live performances, La Chiva the Americas, NY. Cocktails: 7PM, Dinner: Son. Also joining Septeto Nacional for Gantiva thrills audiences with its own 80 unique Latin funk performed with a rock- Presented in Spanish with English and The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 ’n’-roll attitude. Presented in partnership Spanish subtitles. Recommended for adult East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. $27. For with Carnegie Hall’s Neighborhood audiences.The Gramercy Arts Theatre, reservations call: (212)225-9999 or visit: Concerts. El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 138 East 27th Street, NY. 3PM. $33, with www.repertorio.org. 5th Avenue, NY. 10AM – 7PM. Free. No discounts available for seniors, students, RSVP Required. For information visit: groups. For reservations call:(212)225- SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2013 elmuseo.org. 9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. Prayer Service for the Release of Oscar Brooklyn Museum presents Roundtable WHIN MUSIC PROJECT presents Lopez Rivera. The Rev. Dr. Sam Cruz and Discussion: Behind Closed Doors. A EL SISTEMA UPTOWN. Come to Trinity Lutheran Church invite you to a bilingual, two-part program centered on celebrate the successful fi rst year of the prayer service for long held Puerto Rican the theme of collecting practices and Washington Heights and Inwood (WHIN) political prisoner Oscar Lopez Rivera. fashion in the colonial Americas. Brooklyn Music Project, an El Sistema-inspired The service will also refl ect on the life and Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, music program for children and youth legacy of the fi ery, freedom fi ghter, Bishop NYC. 11:30AM – 4PM. $12, includes in New York City. Founded and directed Antulio Parrilla-Bonilla. Trinity Lutheran Museum admission and a guided tour of by David Gracia, WHIN Music Project Church, 411-46th St, Bklyn, NY. 11:30AM. the exhibition. A boxed lunch is available monumentally commemorates one year Free. for $15. For information visit: www. of shaping melodies, harmonizing lives brooklynmuseum.org. and orchestrating dreams. Our Saviour’s The 3rd International Puerto Rican Atonement Lutheran Church, 178 Bennett Heritage Film Festival (IPRHFF) will The 3rd International Puerto Rican Avenue, NY. 6:30PM. S $10. For showcase pioneering, historically Heritage Film Festival (IPRHFF) will information visit: www.whinmusicproject. signifi cant fi lms and documentaries, showcase pioneering, historically org. contemporary shorts and features, and signifi cant fi lms and documentaries, other innovative fi lms at different venues. contemporary shorts and features, and Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Every fi lm will feature Puerto Rico and other innovative fi lms at different venues. HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A its people in key production roles, from Every fi lm will feature Puerto Rico and new homage to the music and dance of behind the scenes to the front of the its people in key production roles, from 15 Latin American countries Argentina, screen. To view festival calendar and behind the scenes to the front of the Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, purchase tickets: www.iprhff.com. screen. To view festival calendar and Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, purchase tickets: www.iprhff.com. Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And The Puerto Rican Association for Human Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance Development, Inc. (PRAHD) presents Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play Company with Harold Gutierrez and his Puerto Rican Discovery Day Celebration. by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 Program begins at 1:00pm with a mass in by David Mendizábal. A full length play Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. honor of Our Lady of Providence at Our in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves 8PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For Lady Fatima Church, 380 Smith St., Perth a magical love story between brothers information call: (718) 729-3880 or visit: Amboy, NJ. At 2:30pm the Puerto Rican connected in mystical yet oddly familiar www.thaliatheatre.org. fl ag will be raised at Perth Amboy CIty Hall ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 West Park. At 3:30pm a free cultural event at 204th Street, NY. 2PM. $18; $12 students/ Pregones Theatre presents THE HARLEM Robert N. Wilentz School, 51 First Street seniors. For information call: (646)296- HELLFIGHTERS ON A LATIN BEAT Perth Amboy, NJ, with folkloric music, 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org featuring DANNY RIVERA. Pregones dance, exhibits, artisans entertainment Theater’s acclaimed jazz-rag-danza and ethnic food. SEA in association with HOSTOS Center concert commemorating the Puerto Rican for the Arts and Culture presents La players who helped the 369th United Repertorio Español presents La Nena Cucarachita Martina/Martina the Little States Infantry make music history. Puerto Se Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by Roach. A Latin Rock ‘n’ Roll musical based Rican Traveling Theatre, 304 West 47th Jose Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly on a popular Cuban and Puerto Rican Street, NY. 8PM. $40 Advance, $60 Door. cruel comedy about a desperate father children’s tale about a little roach who For information and tickets visit: www. who will do absolutely anything to marry learns many lessons on her journey to pregones.org. off one of his three spinster daughters. fi nd true love. Hostos Center for the Arts & Performed in Spanish with subtitles in Culture, Main Theater, Hostos Community Teatro La Tea presents GUITAR MUSIC English & Spanish via Simultext® In- College, 450 Grand Concourse, Bronx, OF LATIN AMERICA. Guitarist Francisco Seat Captioning System. The Gramercy NY. 3PM. $15 children and $18 adults. Roldan takes us through a journey of Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. For information visit: www.teatrosea.org Latin America, from Cuba to Paraguay, 2:30PM. $27. For reservations call: (212) or call: (212) 529-1545. Argentina to Puerto Rico, with all of the 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. richness and beauty that’s in our countries’ Repertorio Español presents El amor music. Teatro La Tea, 107 Suffolk Street, Pregones Theatre presents THE en los tiempos del cólera. Based on NYC. 8PM. $15. For information visit: HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS ON A LATIN Gabriel García Márquez’s Nobel Prize www.teatrolatea.com. BEAT featuring Danny Rivera. Pregones Winning novel, this lyrical, imagistic Theater’s acclaimed jazz-rag-danza play focuses on an extraordinary love Repertorio Español presents La Nena Se concert commemorating the Puerto Rican story between a poetically-inclined man Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by Jose players who helped the 369th United named Florentino Ariza and a sensual, Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly cruel States Infantry make music history. Puerto practical yet somewhat elusive woman comedy about a desperate father who will Rican Traveling Theatre, 304 West 47th named Fermina Daza. Spanning fi fty do absolutely anything to marry off one of Street, NY. 3PM. $40 Advance, $60 Door. years of time, the story plays out in a his three spinster daughters. Love is blind For information and tickets visit: www. series of short scenic episodes fi lled with and in this case, it’s blind, dangerous, pregones.org. poetry, song, movement and heightened and hilarious! Performed in Spanish moments of theatricality. A daring four- with subtitles in English & Spanish via Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) actor tour-de-force piece for the theatre. Simultext® In-Seat Captioning System. presents Rafael Hernández…Romance. 81 A Romantic Musical Revue about the life, or vsiit: www.repertorio.org. $80 per person - $150 per pair; At Door: career and music of one of the greatest $90 per person - $170 per pair. For Online/ Latin America composers of all time, Repertorio Español presents the MetLife Advanced Sales: www.AyudaArts.org. For Rafael Hernández. Teatro SEA, 107 Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 more information call: (917) 968-4191 or Suffolk Street, NY. 4PM. $30 in advance $ Reading Series, a Reading of submitted visit: www.ayudaforthearts.org. 40 at the door. For information visit: www. works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. National Playwriting Competition. The Repertorio Español presents Doña Flor goal of this annual initiative is to identify y sus dos maridos. Doña Flor misses her Thalia Spanish Theatre presents and develop the work of talented late husband’s passionate intimacy. She HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A playwrights and highlight the Hispanic / re-marries and magical realism allows her new homage to the music and dance of Latino experience in the United States. to live (and sleep) with her two husbands. 15 Latin American countries Argentina, Echoing the Company’s original mission, The Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 East Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, these plays represent a cross section 27th Street, NYC. 7PM. $25 – $55. For Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, of nationalities and explores subjects reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And and themes important to the Hispanic www.repertorio.org. Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance community. The winning play will be Company with Harold Gutierrez and his produced at Repertorio Español. For WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013 Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 more information on Nuestras Voces Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. All Repertorio Español presents El Quijote. 4PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For readings are free and open to the public. A carnivalesque adaptation of Cervantes’ information call: (718) 729-3880 or visit: The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th masterpiece. Through Don Quijote’s www.thaliatheatre.org. Street, NY. 6:30PM. For reservations call: adventures, the production presents the (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. illusion of an utopian world with a festive Repertorio Español presents Cita a Ciegas org. and colorful spirit. The play is a collection (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, directed of 12 scenes that present different stories by Jorge Alí Triana. Performed around the PAMAR and Malbec Tango House based on the original text of Cervantes. world to enthusiastic critical and audience presents GLAMOURTANGO (Tango in The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East acclaim, Cita a ciegas is a compelling and Feminine Form). Marks a multimedia 27th Street, NYC. 11AM. $25-$50 with riveting play about chance encounters. show of music and dance, theatrical set discounts available for seniors, students, Performed in Spanish with subtitles in and lighting, created as a tribute to those and groups. For reservations call: (212) English & Spanish via Simultext® In- women who quietly wrote the pages of 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. Seat Captioning System. The Gramercy Tango from the very beginning. This is a Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. unique approach within the Tango style, El Museo del Barrio Presents TAKEABITE! 6:30PM. $27. For reservations call: (212) since all performing artists on this show Explore gender constructions and identity 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. are female. Malbec Tango House, 428 with artist David Antonio Cruz and LA Lafayette St/Astor Place, NY. 8PM. $40. BIENAL 2013 artists damali abrams PAMAR and YM-YWHA of Washington For information or to purchase tickets and Sean Paul Gallegos through a Heights Inwood presents ROJO TANGO. visit: www.glamourtango.com or www. screening and premiere performance of Polly Ferman- Piano, Yael Acher “Kat” malbechouse.com. TAKEABITE, elduendealwaystravels… Modiano- Flute & electronics Ms. light. Stick around and join us in El Cafe Ferman and Ms. Acher-Modiano are TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2013 and be a part of the performance as we both internationally award winning and smash LA BIENAL artist Risa Puño’s reknown musicians. Their collaboration Repertorio Español presents La Casa de piñata! El Museo Del Barrio - El Teatro, results in a unique performance that Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, directed 1230 5th Avenue, NY. 6:30PM to 9PM. includes Traditional and Contemporary by René Buch.Bernarda Alba attempts to Free, RSVP required. For information Tango, as well as Electro-acoustic music dominate and control her fi ve unmarried visit: elmuseo.org. with screenings of Black & White Latin daughters. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, motion pictures.YM-YWHA of Washington 138 East 27th Street,NYC. 11AM. $25 – Repertorio Español presents the MetLife Heights Inwood, 54 Nagle Avenue, NY. $50 with discounts available for seniors, Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 1:30PM. Free. For information visit: www. students, children and groups. For Reading Series, a Reading of submitted pollyferman.net and www.ywashhts.org. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces www.repertorio.org. National Playwriting Competition. The MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2013 goal of this annual initiative is to identify The Alliance for Young Urban Design and and develop the work of talented Repertorio Español presents “21” by the Arts (AYUDA for the Arts) presents AN playwrights and highlight the Hispanic/ Vincent Toro, directed by José Zayas. EVENING UNDER THE STARS AT THE Latino experience in the United States. Winning Play of the 2011 Nuestras Voces COPACABANA with guest hosts Mike Echoing the Company’s original mission, National Playwriting Competition, “21” Woods and Ines Rosales of Fox5 Good these plays represent a cross section is a hysterically irreverent comedy of Day New York. The evening begins in the of nationalities and explores subjects modern family dynamics. A rambunctious exquisite Copacabana with a delicious and themes important to the Hispanic family takes their son, a recent college dinner with red and white wines. Your community. The winning play will be graduate, to a casino to celebrate. His experience continues at the Rooftop 760 produced at Repertorio Español. For overly eccentric parents are hoping that where you will dance the night away to more information on Nuestras Voces this trip will help unify the whole family, the exciting and exotic salsa music that please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. All while unaware that their son is about the Copacabana has been so famous for. readings are free and open to the public. to drop a bombshell on all of them. Proceeds fund scholarships and programs The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Performed in Spanish with subtitles in to help the creative young students Street, NY. 6:30PM. For reservations call: English & Spanish via Simultext® In-Seat from urban neighborhoods develop their (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. Captioning System. The Gramercy Arts artistic potential. Copacabana, 268 West org. Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. 47th Street at 8th Avenue, NYC, 6:30PM $27. For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 -10:30 PM. Tickets: Advance Purchase: Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play 82 by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, For information visit: www.whedco.org/ by David Mendizábal. A full length play directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the arts/bronxmusicheritagecenter or call: in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous (718) 839-1134. a magical love story between brothers Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and María connected in mystical yet oddly familiar Teresa) from the Dominican Republic. The The 6th Annual Latin American Piano ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 West sisters inspired resistance cells throughout and Song Festival NY. A Piano Recital 204th St, NY. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ the country against the dictatorial regime presented by Cesar Reyes, celebrating seniors. For information call: (646) 296- of Gen. Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The the anniversaries of Lecuona, Lavista 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org. ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code name, and Diez-Nieto. Greenwich House Music were brutally murdered by the regime in School, 46 Barrow Street, NY. 8PM. $20, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013 1960. Presented in Spanish. Live English students $10. For information visit: www. translation available. Recommended latinopiano.blogspot.com. Repertorio Español presents Carmen for adult audiences. The Gramercy Arts Rivera’s La Gringa, directed by René Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play Buch. A young woman travels from NYC $30, with discounts available for seniors, by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed to Puerto Rico to meet her family and students, and groups. For reservations by David Mendizábal. A full length play discovers her roots. Her misconceptions call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves are transformed as she learns that being repertorio.org. a magical love story between brothers Puerto Rican is a matter of the heart and connected in mystical yet oddly familiar spirit. The Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 International Coquito Tasting Federation ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. $20 - $35. presents the 2013 Coquito Masters 204th St, NYC. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or Competition. Sazon and Mambo seniors. For information call: (646) 296- visit: www.repertorio.org. Restaurant, 1691 Main Street, Bridgeport, 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org. CT. 6:15PM – 8PM. For information call: Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. (203) 295-7178. Repertorio Español presents Cita a celebrates Puerto Rican Heritage Month. Ciegas (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, Monroe College, King Hall, 2501 Jerome Thalia Spanish Theatre presents directed by Jorge Alí Triana. Performed Avenue, Bronx, NY. 5:30PM. Free. For HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A around the world to enthusiastic critical information call: (718)590-3522. new homage to the music and dance of and audience acclaim, Cita a ciegas is a 15 Latin American countries Argentina, compelling and riveting play about chance SEA (Society of the Educational Arts, Inc.) Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Performed in Spanish with subtitles in presents Your Day is My night/ Tu Día es Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, English & Spanish via Simultext® In-Seat Mi Noche (Feature fi lm + Q&A with cast Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And Captioning System. The Gramercy Arts and crew). Immigrant residents of a “shift- Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. bed” apartment in the heart of New York Company with Harold Gutierrez and his $27. For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 City’s Chinatown share their stories of Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 or visit: www.repertorio.org. personal and political upheaval. As the bed Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. 8PM. transforms into a stage, the fi lm reveals $30. For information call: (718) 729-3880 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2013 the collective history of the Chinese in the or visit: www.thaliatheatre.org. US. Teatro SEA, 107 Suffolk Street, NY. Comité Noviembre presents the 7PM. Free. For information call: (212) Saphira Studio & IAC (Internacional Arts 7thAnnualComité Noviembre Puerto 529-1545 or visit:www.teatrosea.org. Coalition) presents TROPICAL LATIN Rican Artisans Fair and 2nd Annual MULTIMEDIA ART, MUSIC, DANCE AND Book Fair. In keeping with its mission PAMAR presents HISTORY OF TANGO. FASHION INTERVENTION. A multimedia to promote Puerto Rican culture and art, Quintet of the Americas, the woodwind event featuring Latin American artists Comité Noviembre has invited Puerto quintet champions of music from Latin and music including Indiginous art from Rican artisans from Puerto Rico and America, are joined by world-renowned different ethic groups from the Amazon, the United States to participate in its bandoneónist Daniel Binelli and tango painters, sculptors, photographers, movie seventh annual Puerto Rican Artisans master pianist Polly Ferman for a program makers, fashion and salsa performances, Fair. The Fair will have live entertainment of music that spans the history of tango live music with Edilza Aires and more. and educational cultural workshops for from the habanera to Piazzolla and the Curators: Alcinda Saphira and Antonio children and adults such as mask making, modern tango.Our Saviour’s Atonement Oliveira / Production & Marketing: the history of the Three Kings’ celebration, Lutheran Church, 178 Bennett Ave, Gustavo Braga, Liz Carvalho, and Taino story telling and much more! This Manhattan. 7PM. Free. For information Fernanda Pereira. Green Gallery, 4 year CN will also conduct a Book Fair visit: www.binelli-ferman.com. West 43rd Street, NY. 6PM. Free. For of Puerto Rican authors. Come, have information visit: www.saphirastudio.com fun, learn about our culture, and do your Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play holiday shopping purchasing unique by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed The Bronx Music Heritage Center gifts. Hostos Community College, Hostos by David Mendizábal. A full length play (BMHC) presents the fi lm documentary Center for the Arts & Culture, 405 Grand in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves THE BORINQUENEERS. Filmmaker Concourse at 149th Street, Bronx, NY. a magical love story between brothers Noemi Figueroa Soulet will be attending, 10AM–7PM. For information visit: www. connected in ways mystical yet oddly along with 65th Infantry veteran Eugenio comitenoviembre.org. familiar. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 W Quevedo. The series is curated by City Lore 204th St, NY. 8PM. $18; $12 students/ award-winning folklorist Elena Martínez Up Theater presents ASHÉ, a new play seniors. For information call: (646) 296- and Grammy-nominated Bronx musician by Ricardo Pérez-González, directed 3181 or visit: www.uptheater.org. Bobby Sanabria. Its programming by David Mendizábal. A full length play includes Latin music and jazz, comedy, in English and Spanish, Ashé weaves FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2013 poetry and book readings, and fi lm a magical love story between brothers screenings with Q&As. BMHC Lab , 1303 connected in mystical yet oddly familiar Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo Louis Niñé Blvd, Bronx, New York. 8PM. ways. St. Jude Cultural Center, 433 West de las Mariposas, A new play by Caridad The event is free suggested donation $5. 204th Street, NY. 2PM. $18, $12 students/ 83 seniors. For information call: (646) 296- Se Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by 40 at the door. For information visit: www. 3181, or visit:www.uptheater.org. Jose Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. cruel comedy about a desperate father Repertorio Español presents El Quijote. who will do absolutely anything to marry Thalia Spanish Theatre presents A carnivalesque adaptation of Cervantes’ off one of his three spinster daughters. HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A masterpiece. Through Don Quijote’s Performed in Spanish with subtitles in new homage to the music and dance of adventures, the production presents the English & Spanish via Simultext® In-Seat 15 Latin American countries Argentina, illusion of an utopian world with a festive Captioning System. The Gramercy Arts Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, and colorful spirit. The play is a collection Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, of 12 scenes that present different stories $27. For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And based on the original text of Cervantes. or www.repertorio.org. Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East Company with Harold Gutierrez and his 27th Street NYC. 3PM. $25 – $50 with SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2013 Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 discounts available for seniors, students, Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. 4 and groups. For reservations call: (212) COMITE NOVIEMBRE EIGHTEENTH PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. ANNUAL DAY OF COMMUNITY SERVICE information call: (718) 729-3880 or visit: AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. For the www.thaliatheatre.org. International Coquito Tasting Federation past eighteen years, Comité Noviembre has presents Coquito Marqueta!!!! Get your set aside the Sunday before Thanksgiving Repertorio Español presents Bésame coquito from past contestants to serve at as a day of community service and Mucho: Latinas sing Latinas. Pablo Zinger, your Thanksgiving dinner. La Marqueta, social responsibility in commemoration musical director, celebrates the musical East Harlem, 6:15PM-8PM. $5 For of November 19th, traditionally known as contributions of female composers from information call (917) 287-4964. Puerto Rican discovery day or as we like Latin America. This anthology of songs to call it Puerto Rican “encounter” day. The by female Latin American composers PAMAR and the Apollo Theatre purpose of the day is to show the spirit includes songs by Sylvia Rexach (Puerto presents The 8th Annual Latin American of commitment and the power of action. Rico), María Grever and Consuelo Cultural Week Closing Event with Ballet CN is conducting a food drive of non- Velásquez (México), Isolina Carrillo and Hispanico. Ballet Hispanico, the nation’s perishable foods to create Thanksgiving Ernestina Lecuona (Cuba), Chabuca leading Latino dance company returns to dinner baskets for the poor of New York. Granda (Perú), Violeta Parra (Chile) and the Apollo stage, following last season’s CN is working to provide 300 needy Eladia Blázquez and María Elena Walsh sold-out event. Reviewing last year, The families with food baskets and turkeys (Argentina). Performed by extraordinary New York Times wrote: “it feels like a which will be distributed by volunteers the singers with live music. Recommended tradition in the making. Premieres and Tuesday before Thanksgiving. TURKEYS for adult audiences.The Gramercy Arts an enthusiastic audience combine with ARE NEEDED, as well as non-perishable Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NYC. the Theater’s historic vibrations for a foods. Several food drop-off points have 6:30PM. $33, with discounts available sense of special occasion.” Highlights been determined, in Queens, Manhattan, for seniors, students, and groups. For for this season include a seductive Brooklyn, the Bronx and Yonkers. 11AM – reservations call: (212)225-9999 or visit: world premiere, inspired by the beloved 2PM. For information call: (914)263-6599. www.repertorio.org. Mexican celebration Dia de los Muertos, and the premiere of an all-male dance that Repertorio Español presents Cita a Ciegas PAMAR presents the LACW Offi cial turns a playful eye on stereotypes. Apollo (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, directed Brooklyn Closing Event CANTOS DE Theater, 253 West 125th Street, NY. 8PM. by Jorge Alí Triana. Performed around the VIDA NUEVA. Cantos de Vida Nueva $58, $48, $38, $28. For information or world to enthusiastic critical and audience features music by Chilean composer tickets visit: www.apollotheater.org. acclaim, Cita a ciegas is a compelling and Javier Farias performed by the choral riveting play about chance encounters. ensemble, KHORIKOS. The performance Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) Performed in Spanish with subtitles in will feature video projections by New presents Rafael Hernández…Romance. English & Spanish via Simultext® In- York artist, Sheri Wills and live dancing A Romantic Musical Revue about the life, Seat Captioning System. The Gramercy at Littlefi eld Performance+Art Space in career and music of one of the greatest Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. Brooklyn. Littlefi eld, 622 Degraw Street, Latin America composers of all time, 2:30PM. $27. For reservations call: (212) Brooklyn, NY 7 PM. $10. For information Rafael Hernández. Teatro SEA, 107 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. visit: www.littlefi eldnyc.com . Suffolk Street, NY. 8PM. $30 in advance $40 at the door. For information visit: www. Teatro La Tea presents GUSTAVO MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2013 teatrosea.org or call: (212) 529-1545. MORETTO SEPTET. Tango, Jazz, Classical Music: Gustavo Moretto’s Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Doctorate in classical composition from presents MURAL ARTIST TALK – If Walls HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A Columbia University and his love of jazz, Could Speak/ Si las Paredes Hablaran. new homage to the music and dance of brings tango, jazz and classical music The BORIMIX 2013 Mural Artists share 15 Latin American countries Argentina, with his new septet into a rich and very their process of making their murals at Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, unusual mix, powerful and fun at the same The Clemente. Teatro SEA, 107 Suffolk Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, time. Teatro la tea, Street, NYC. 6PM. Free. For information Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And 107 Suffolk Street, NY. 3PM. $10. For visit: www.teatrosea. or call: (212) 529- Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance information visit: www.teatrolatea.com. 1545. Company with Harold Gutierrez and his Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) Repertorio Español presents the MetLife Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. presents Rafael Hernández…Romance. Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 8PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For A Romantic Musical Revue about the life, Reading Series, a Reading of submitted information call: (718) 729-3880 or visit: career and music of one of the greatest works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces www.thaliatheatre.org. Latin America composers of all time, National Playwriting Competition. The Rafael Hernández. Teatro SEA, 107 goal of this annual initiative is to identify Repertorio Español presents La Nena Suffolk Street, NY. 4PM. $30 in advance $ and develop the work of talented 84 playwrights and highlight the Hispanic / THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2013 comedian, television host, and producer, Latino experience in the United States. Jochy Santos, comedian, host, and Echoing the Company’s original mission, ¡Feliz Día de Acción de Gracias! – Happy actor, Cuquín Victoria. The night will also these plays represent a cross section Thanksgiving! feature special guest, singer, composer, of nationalities and explores subjects television host, entertainer, actor, and and themes important to the Hispanic FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 comedian, Anthony Ríos. Lehman Center community. The winning play will be for the Performing Arts, 250 Bedford Park produced at Repertorio Español. For Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Boulevard West, Bronx, NY. 8PM. $50, more information on Nuestras Voces HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A $45, $35. For information or to purchase please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. All new homage to the music and dance of tickets visit: www.lehmancenter.org. readings are free and open to the public. 15 Latin American countries Argentina, The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Street NY. 6:30PM. For reservations call: Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And new homage to the music and dance of org. Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance 15 Latin American countries Argentina, Company with Harold Gutierrez and his Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2013 Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. 8PM. Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And Repertorio Español presents La Casa $30. For information call: (718) 729-3880 Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance de Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, or visit:www.thaliatheatre.org. Company with Harold Gutierrez and his directed by René Buch. Bernarda Alba Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 attempts to dominate and control her fi ve Repertorio Español presents Cita a Ciegas Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. unmarried daughters. In this repressed (Blind Date) by Mario Diament, directed 8PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For environment. Performances presented in by Jorge Alí Triana. Performed around the information call: (718) 729-3880 or visit Spanish simultaneous English translation world to enthusiastic critical and audience www.thaliatheatre.org. via headphones available for an additional acclaim, Cita a ciegas is a compelling and $3. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East riveting play about chance encounters. Repertorio Español presents La Nena Se 27th Street NY. 11AM. $25 – $50 with Performed in Spanish with subtitles in Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by Jose discounts available for seniors, students, English & Spanish via Simultext® In-Seat Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly cruel children and groups. For reservations call: Captioning System. The Gramercy Arts comedy about a desperate father who will (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. Theatre, 138 East 27th Street NY. 8PM. do absolutely anything to marry off one of org. $27. For reservations call (212) 225-9999 his three spinster daughters. Love is blind or visit: www.repertorio.org. and in this case, it’s blind, dangerous, Repertorio Español presents the MetLife and hilarious! Performed in Spanish Nuestras Voces Latino Plays 2013 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2013 with subtitles in English & Spanish via Reading Series, a Reading of submitted Simultext® In-Seat Captioning System. works to The MetLife Nuestras Voces Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th National Playwriting Competition. The de las Mariposas, A new play by Caridad St, NY. 8PM. $27. For reservations call: goal of this annual initiative is to identify Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. and develop the work of talented directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the org. playwrights and highlight the Hispanic/ Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous Latino experience in the United States. Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and María SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2013 Echoing the Company’s original mission, Teresa) from the Dominican Republic. The these plays represent a cross section sisters inspired resistance cells throughout Repertorio Español presents La Nena Se of nationalities and explores subjects the country against the dictatorial regime Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by Jose and themes important to the Hispanic of Gen. Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly cruel community. The winning play will be ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code name, comedy about a desperate father who will produced at Repertorio Español. For were brutally murdered by the regime in do absolutely anything to marry off one of more information on Nuestras Voces 1960. Presented in Spanish. Live English his three spinster daughters. Love is blind please visit www.repertorio.org/metlife. translation available. Recommended and in this case, it’s blind, dangerous, All readings are free and open to the for adult audiences. The Gramercy Arts and hilarious! Performed in Spanish public. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 3PM. with subtitles in English & Spanish via East 27th Street, NYC. 6:30PM. For $30, with discounts available for seniors, Simultext® In-Seat Captioning System. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: students, and groups. For reservations The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th www.repertorio.org. call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. St, NY. 2:30PM. $27. For reservations call: repertorio.org. (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2013 org. Clemente Soto Velez Center and Repertorio Español presents Carmen International Coquito Tasting Federation Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Rivera’s La Gringa, directed by René presents the 2013 Coquito Masters HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A Buch. A young woman travels from NYC Competition. Clemente Soto Velez, 107 new homage to the music and dance of to Puerto Rico to meet her family and Suffolk St #312. NY. 6:15PM – 8PM. $5. 15 Latin American countries Argentina, discovers her roots. Her misconceptions For information call: (212) 260-4080. Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, are transformed as she learns that being Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Puerto Rican is a matter of the heart and Lehman Center for the Performing Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And spirit. The Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 Arts presents Festival Del Humor. This Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. $20 – $35. night of laughter is for all to remember Company with Harold Gutierrez and his For reservations call: (212)225-9999 or featuring one of the fi rst Latin Kings of Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 visit: www.repertorio.org. Comedy, Paul Rodriguez, native New Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. Yorker of Dominican extraction and 4PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For natural comedian, Ruperto Vanderpool, information call: (718)729-3880 or visit: 85 www.thaliatheatre.org. Lexington & Third Avenues, NY. 11AM. Rivera’s La Gringa, directed by René $30, with discounts available for seniors, Buch. A young woman travels from NYC MONDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2013 students, and groups. For reservations to Puerto Rico to meet her family and call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. discovers her roots. Her misconceptions Repertorio Español presents Carmen repertorio.org. are transformed as she learns that being Rivera’s La Gringa, directed by René Puerto Rican is a matter of the heart and Buch. A young woman travels from NYC FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2013 spirit. The Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 to Puerto Rico to meet her family and East 27th Street, NY. 3PM. $25 – $35. For discovers her roots. Her misconceptions Repertorio Español presents La Casa reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: are transformed as she learns that being de Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, www.repertorio.org. Puerto Rican is a matter of the heart and directed by René Buch.Bernarda Alba spirit. The Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 attempts to dominate and control her fi ve SoHarlem and International Coquito East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. $25 - $35. unmarried daughters. In this repressed Tasting Federation presents the 2013 For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or environment, Lorca creates an explosion Coquito Masters Competition. SoHarlem: visit: www.repertorio.org. of hatred, jealousy, despair and passion. Creative Outlet, 1361 Amsterdam Avenue, Performances presented in Spanish NY. 6:15PM – 8PM. For information visit: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 simultaneous English translation via [email protected] or call: (917) headphones available for an additional 287-4964. Repertorio Español presents El Quijote. $3. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East A carnivalesque adaptation of Cervantes’ 27th Street, NYC. 11AM. $25 – $50 with Thalia Spanish Theatre presents masterpiece. Through Don Quijote’s discounts available for seniors, students, HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A adventures, the production presents children and groups. For reservations, new homage to the music and dance of the illusion of an utopian world with a call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. 15 Latin American countries Argentina, festive and colorful spirit. El Quijote is a repertorio.org. Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, polyphonic play in which many different Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, genres such as comedy, tragedy and farce Trinity Lutheran Church and International Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And collide to form a carnival-like and vibrant Coquito Tasting Federation presents Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance Don Quijote that is rich in its musicality.” the 2013 Coquito Masters Competition. Company with Harold Gutierrez and his The play is a collection of 12 scenes that Trinity Lutheran Church, 411 Forty-sixth Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 present different stories based on the Street at Fourth Avenue, Sunset Park Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. original text of Cervantes. The Gramercy Brooklyn, NYC. 6:15PM-8PM. Free. 8PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. [email protected] or (917)-287- information call: (718)729-3880 or visit: 11AM. $25-$50 with discounts available 4964.Thalia Spanish Theatre presents www.thaliatheatre.org. for seniors, students, and groups. For HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A reservations call (212) 225-9999 or visit: new homage to the music and dance of Repertorio Español presents Bésame www.repertorio.org. 15 Latin American countries Argentina, Mucho: Latinas sing Latinas. Pablo Zinger, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, musical director, celebrates the musical WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2013 Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, contributions of female composers from Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And Latin America. This anthology of songs Repertorio Español presents Nobel Prize Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance by female Latin American composers Winner Gabriel García Márquez’ Cronica Company with Harold Gutierrez and his includes songs by Sylvia Rexach (Puerto de una Muerte Anunciada (Chronicle of Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 Rico), María Grever and Consuelo a Death Foretold). Directed by Jorge Alí Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. 8PM. Velásquez (México), Isolina Carrillo and Triana. A spectacular wedding, a savage $30. For information call: (718) 729-3880 Ernestina Lecuona (Cuba), Chabuca scandal, and a murder to which an entire or visit: www.thaliatheatre.org. Granda (Perú), Violeta Parra (Chile) and Latin American town appears to be an Eladia Blázquez and María Elena Walsh accessory to the fact.The Gramercy Repertorio Español presents El amor (Argentina). Recommended for adult Art Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. en los tiempos del cólera. Based on audiences.The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 11AM. $25 – $50 with discounts available Gabriel García Márquez’s Nobel Prize 138 East 27th Street,NYC. 8PM. $33, with for seniors, students and groups. For Winning novel, this lyrical, imagistic discounts available for seniors, students, reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: play focuses on an extraordinary love and groups. For reservations call (212) www.repertorio.org. story between a poetically-inclined man 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. named Florentino Ariza and a sensual, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2013 practical yet somewhat elusive woman SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2013 named Fermina Daza. Spanning fi fty Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo years of time, the story plays out in a Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo de las Mariposas, a new play by Caridad series of short scenic episodes fi lled with de las Mariposas, A new play by Caridad Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, poetry, song, movement and heightened Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the moments of theatricality. A daring four- directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous actor tour-de-force piece for the theatre. Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and María Presented in Spanish with English and Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and Teresa) from the Dominican Republic. The Spanish subtitles. Recommended for adult María Teresa) from the Dominican sisters inspired resistance cells throughout audiences.The Gramercy Arts Theatre, Republic. The sisters inspired resistance the country against the dictatorial regime 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. $33, with cells throughout the country against the of Gen. Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The discounts available for seniors, students, dictatorial regime of Gen. Rafael Leónidas ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code name, and groups. For reservations call: (212) Trujillo. The ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code were brutally murdered by the regime in 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. name, were brutally murdered by the 1960. Presented in Spanish. Live English regime in 1960. Presented in Spanish. translation available. Recommended SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2013 Live English translation available. for adult audiences. The Gramercy Arts Recommended for adult audiences. The Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, between Repertorio Español presents Carmen Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th 86 Street, NYC. 2:30PM. $30, with discounts familias de inmigrantes que día a día luchan visit: www.thaliatheatre.org. available for seniors, students, and groups. por tener un futuro en este gran país. El For reservations call (212) 225-9999 or Museo Del Barrio - Black Box Theatre, 1230 Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo visit: www.repertorio.org. 5th Avenue, NY. 11AM – 1PM. Free, RSVP de las Mariposas, A new play by Caridad required. For information visit: elmuseo.org. Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, Thalia Spanish Theatre presents directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A Repertorio Español presents El Quijote. Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous new homage to the music and dance of A carnivalesque adaptation of Cervantes’ Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and María 15 Latin American countries Argentina, masterpiece. Through Don Quijote’s Teresa) from the Dominican Republic. The Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, adventures, the production presents the sisters inspired resistance cells throughout Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, illusion of an utopian world with a festive the country against the dictatorial regime Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And and colorful spirit.The play is a collection of Gen. Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance of 12 scenes that present different stories ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code name, Company with Harold Gutierrez and his based on the original text of Cervantes. were brutally murdered by the regime in Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th 1960. Presented in Spanish. Live English Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. Street, NY. 11AM. $25-$50 with discounts translation available. Recommended 4PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For available for seniors, students,and groups. for adult audiences. The Gramercy Arts information call: (718) 729-3880 or visit: For reservations call: (212)225-9999 or Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. www.thaliatheatre.org. visit: www.repertorio.org. $30, with discounts available for seniors, students, and groups. For reservations,call: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2013 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013 (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org.

Repertorio Español presents La Casa Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2013 de Bernarda Alba by García Lorca, de las Mariposas, A new play by Caridad directed by René Buch. Bernarda Alba Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, Thalia Spanish Theatre presents attempts to dominate and control her fi ve directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A new unmarried daughters. In this repressed Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous homage to the music and dance of 15 Latin environment, Lorca creates an explosion Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and María American countries Argentina, Bolivia, of hatred, jealousy, despair and passion. Teresa) from the Dominican Republic. The Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Performances presented in Spanish sisters inspired resistance cells throughout Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Mexico, simultaneous English translation via the country against the dictatorial regime Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And Venezuela, headphones available for an additional $3. of Gen. Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The plus Spain. Mestizo Dance Company with The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code name, Harold Gutierrez and his Band. Thalia Street NYC. 11AM. $25-50 with discounts were brutally murdered by the regime in Spanish Theatre, 41–17 Greenpoint Ave, available for seniors, students, children and 1960. Presented in Spanish. Live English Sunnyside, NY. 8PM. $35; $32 students groups. For reservations call: (212)225- translation available. Recommended & seniors. For information call: (718)729- 9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. for adult audiences. The Gramercy Arts 3880 or visit:www.thaliatheatre.org. Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013 $30, with discounts available for seniors, Lehman College presents PARRANDA students, and groups. For reservations call: NAVIDEÑA with the unique jíbaro music El Museo del Barrio Presents (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. from the mountains of Puerto Rico with LIBROFORUM: De Cómo Las Muchachas three celebrated masters of the genre: Lily y García Perdieron Su Acento, por Julia FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013 su gran Trio singing all her famous ballads; Álvarez. ¿¡Hablemos de libros en español!? José Miguel Class, “El Gallito de Manatí,” Cada mes El Museo del Barrio le da la The East Harlem Tree Lighting Committee celebrating his 60 year anniversary and bienvenida a todos aquellos que quieran Presents The 10th Annual East Harlem Odilio Gonzalez, “El Jibarito de Lares.” participar en nuestro club de lectura Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join us Joining them will be 5 en Plena & more. en español. Este mes, abandonando for the 10th annual Christmas tree lighting Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, la tensión política de la República made possible by the East Harlem Holiday Bedford Park Blvd West, Bronx NYC. 8PM. Dominicana de los explosivos años 70, Tree Committee and the East Harlem $45-$40, $25. Children 12 and under, $10 las cuatro hermanas García acompañadas Business Chamber of Commerce. The tree any seat. For information or to purchase de sus padres se autoexilian en el Bronx will be decorated with winter fl owers made tickets visit: www.lehmancenter.org. Neoyorquino, arribando a un ambiente from recycled plastic bottles, a concept totalmente desconocido y en extremo created by local artist Genevieve Andre, Repertorio Español presents El amor liberal para sus conservadores padres. La and assembled by children and seniors in en los tiempos del cólera. Based on excelente narrativa de Julia Álvarez nos neighborhood. Franklin Square Plaza at Gabriel García Márquez’s Nobel Prize lleva de la mano por el recorrido de las 106th Street and 3rd Avenue, NY. 6:30PM. Winning novel, this lyrical, imagistic play dinámicas hermanas García, por caminos No RSVP required. focuses on an extraordinary love story deliciosamente divertidos y también between a poetically-inclined man named plagados de confl ictos generacionales, Thalia Spanish Theatre presents Florentino Ariza and a sensual, practical yet donde las barreras del lenguaje y del HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A somewhat elusive woman named Fermina prejuicio social se patentizan en el trayecto new homage to the music and dance of Daza. Spanning fi fty years of time, the de unas rebeldes hermanas que han dejado 15 Latin American countries Argentina, story plays out in a series of short scenic atrás la vida privilegiada y conservadora en Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, episodes fi lled with poetry, song, movement Santo Domingo y que harán todo lo posible Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, and heightened moments of theatricality. A para adaptarse a este nuevo país plagado Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And daring four-actor tour-de-force piece for the de novedosas oportunidades. Álvarez nos Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance theatre. Presented in Spanish with English deleita, narrando con una originalidad y Company with Harold Gutierrez and his and Spanish subtitles. Recommended ligereza sorprendente el cómo las García Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 for adult audiences.The Gramercy Arts perdieron su acento, pero también ganaron Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. 8PM. Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. una identidad que retrata al de muchas $30. For information call: (718)729-3880 or $33, with discounts available for seniors, 87 students, and groups. For reservations call: students, and groups. For reservations call: Mucho: Latinas sing Latinas. Pablo Zinger, (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. musical director, celebrates the musical contributions of female composers from SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2013 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2013 Latin America. This anthology of songs by female Latin American composers includes Repertorio Español presents Bésame Repertorio Español presents Carmen songs by Sylvia Rexach (Puerto Rico), Mucho: Latinas sing Latinas. Pablo Zinger, Rivera’s La Gringa, directed by René Buch. María Grever and Consuelo Velásquez musical director, celebrates the musical A young woman travels from NYC to Puerto (México), Isolina Carrillo and Ernestina contributions of female composers from Rico to meet her family and discovers her Lecuona (Cuba), Chabuca Granda (Perú), Latin America. This anthology of songs by roots. Her misconceptions are transformed Violeta Parra (Chile) and Eladia Blázquez female Latin American composers includes as she learns that being Puerto Rican is a and María Elena Walsh (Argentina). songs by Sylvia Rexach (Puerto Rico), matter of the heart and spirit. The Gramercy Recommended for adult audiences.The María Grever and Consuelo Velásquez Art Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th (México), Isolina Carrillo and Ernestina 11AM. $25 - $35. For reservations call: Street, NY. 8PM. $33, with discounts Lecuona (Cuba), Chabuca Granda (Perú), (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. available for seniors, students, and groups. Violeta Parra (Chile) and Eladia Blázquez For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or and María Elena Walsh (Argentina). FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2013 www.repertorio.org. Recommended for adult audiences.The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th Pregones Theater and The Puerto SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2013 Street, NY. 2:30PM. Tickets begin at Rican Traveling Theater presents BAILE $33, with discounts available for seniors, CANGREJERO. Rhythmic treasures of our Repertorio Español presents La Nena Se students, and groups. For reservations call: Afro Caribe heritage, from Palés to Guillén! Casa by Carlos Ferrari, directed by Jose (212)225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. A classic Baile Cangrejero sets the great Zayas. La nena se casa is a cleverly cruel masters of Afro-Latino poetry to the dynamic comedy about a desperate father who will Thalia Spanish Theatre presents rhythms of bomba, plena and bolero. This do absolutely anything to marry off one of HEARTBEAT of LATIN AMERICA. A vibrant spectacle touches on the history, his three spinster daughters. Love is blind new homage to the music and dance of popular culture, and literary creation of and in this case, it’s blind, dangerous, and 15 Latin American countries Argentina, the Americas including works by Julia hilarious! Full of wit, wild characters, and Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, de Burgos, Luis Palés Matos, Fortunato plenty of over the top twists and turns; Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Vizcarrondo (Puerto Rico); Nicolás Guillén this play is a wicked look at the absurd Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, And (Cuba); Nicomedes Santa Cruz (Perú); and choices people can make to maintain Venezuela, plus Spain. Mestizo Dance Manuel del Cabral (Dominican Republic). social appearances. Performed in Spanish Company with Harold Gutierrez and his Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, 304 W with subtitles in English & Spanish via Band. Thalia Spanish Theatre, 41–17 47th St, NY. 8PM. $40 Advance, $60 Door. Simultext® In-Seat Captioning System. Greenpoint Avenue, Sunnyside, NY. For information call: (718) 585-1202 or visit: The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 East 27th 4PM. $35; $32 students & seniors. For http://www.pregones.org. Street NY. 2:30PM. $27. For reservations information call: (718)729-3880 or visit: Saturday, December 21, 2013 call (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio. www.thaliatheatre.org. org. El Museo del Barrio Presents SUPER MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2013 SABADO! SUPER HOLIDAYS. Celebrate Pregones Theater and The Puerto las fi estas with El Museo! Join us for Super Rican Traveling Theater presents BAILE Repertorio Español presents Carmen Holiday activities including crown-making, CANGREJERO. Rhythmic treasures of our Rivera’s La Gringa, directed by René Buch. workshops, and a joint musical performance Afro Caribe heritage, from Palés to Guillén! A young woman travels from NYC to Puerto by members of El Sistema NY/NJ. Save A classic Baile Cangrejero sets the great Rico to meet her family and discovers her your crown and begin the countdown to masters of Afro-Latino poetry to the dynamic roots. Her misconceptions are transformed El Museo del Barrio’s 37th Annual Three rhythms of bomba, plena and bolero. This as she learns that being Puerto Rican is a Kings Day Parade. El Museo Del Barrio, vibrant spectacle touches on the history, matter of the heart and spirit. The Gramercy 1230 5th Avenue, NY. 10AM – 7PM. Free. popular culture, and literary creation of Art Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. No RSVP Required. For information visit: the Americas including works by Julia 11AM. $25-$35. For reservations call: elmuseo.org. de Burgos, Luis Palés Matos, Fortunato (212) 225-9999 or visit: www.repertorio.org. Vizcarrondo (Puerto Rico); Nicolás Guillén Pregones Theater and the Puerto Rican (Cuba); Nicomedes Santa Cruz (Perú); and TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2013 Traveling Theater presents BAILE Manuel del Cabral (Dominican Republic). CANGREJERO. Rhythmic treasures of our Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, 304 W 47th Repertorio Español presents En El Tiempo Afro Caribe heritage, from Palés to Guillén! Street, NY. 8PM. $40 Advance, $60 Door. de las Mariposas, A new play by Caridad A classic Baile Cangrejero sets the great For information call: (718) 585-1202 or visit: Svich based on Julia Alvarez’s novel, masters of Afro-Latino poetry to the dynamic http://www.pregones.org. directed by José Zayas. “In The Time of the rhythms of bomba, plena and bolero. This Butterfl ies” is the story of the courageous vibrant spectacle touches on the history, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2013 Mirabal sisters (Patria, Minerva and María popular culture, and literary creation of Teresa) from the Dominican Republic. The the Americas including works by Julia ¡FELIZ NAVIDAD! sisters inspired resistance cells throughout de Burgos, Luis Palés Matos, Fortunato Merry Christmas! the country against the dictatorial regime Vizcarrondo (Puerto Rico); Nicolás Guillén of Gen. Rafael Leónidas Trujillo. The (Cuba); Nicomedes Santa Cruz (Perú); and THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2013 ‘butterfl ies’, their secret code name, Manuel del Cabral (Dominican Republic). were brutally murdered by the regime in Puerto Rican Traveling Theater, 304 W Repertorio Español presents Entrada 1960. Presented in Spanish. Live English 47th St, NY. 8PM. $40 Advance, $60 Door. Gratis: Gratis no hay nada! A hilarious translation available. Recommended For information call: (718) 585-1202 or visit one-man show by Saulo García, the gifted for adult audiences. The Gramercy Arts http://www.pregones.org. comedian who has delighted thousands with Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NY. 11AM. his shows “Life in the United Slaves” and $30, with discounts available for seniors, Repertorio Español presents Bésame “American Insomnia.” ENTRADA GRATIS* 88 (FREE ADMISSION*) roams between SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2013 health and wellness. The parade route political satire and an absurdist dramatic begins at 106th St. and Madison Ave. and piece. Saulo ventures into themes such Repertorio Español presents La vida ends at 115th St and Park Ave. Join us for as religion, politics, death, marital lies en los Esclavos Unidos (Life in the a day of celebration with children, families, and parent-teenager relationships. United Slaves). Saulo García, author community organizations, and local Presented in Spanish only. (No English and performer, touches on themes businesses. El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 translation available). Recommended such as the fi nancial crisis, healthcare 5th Avenue, NY. Parade ends at 116th for adult audiences.The Gramercy Arts in the U.S.A., immigrants’ jobs and the and Madison Avenue at La Marqueta. Join Theatre, 138 East 27th Street, NYC. 7PM. lifelong trauma left after the interview for us after the parade for a block party with $33, with discounts available for seniors, a visa at the U.S. Embassy. Presented performances and food trucks on site. students, and groups. For reservations, only in Spanish (No English translation 11AM-12:30PM. Free. RSVP required call: (212)225-9999 or visit: www. available). Recommended for adult for school groups, organizations, and repertorio.org. audiences. The Gramercy Art Theatre, businesses interested in marching in the 138 East 27th Street, NY. 2:30PM. $30. parade. For registration and information For reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: http://elmuseo.org/3k2014/ FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2013 visit: www.repertorio.org. The Society of the Educational Arts/La Repertorio Español presents La vida en Repertorio Español presents El Insomnio Sociedad Educativa de las Artes, (SEA) los Esclavos Unidos (Life in the United Americano by Saulo García, directed presents Los Tres Reyes Magos/The Slaves). Saulo García, author and by Leandro Fernández. “Insomnio Three Kings. On January 6th, the light performer, touches on themes such as the Americano” is a tragi-comedy about the from a star will lead the Three Kings fi nancial crisis, healthcare in the U.S.A., arrival of thousands of immigrants from all to Teatro Sea to celebrate one of the immigrants’ jobs and the lifelong trauma over Latin America in the United States. most important Latin American Holidays left after the interview for a visa at the With his ingenious comedy, Saulo García, for children, El Día de Los Tres Reyes U.S. Embassy. Presented only in Spanish plays several funny characters portraying Magos/Three Kings Day. On this day, the (No English translation available). the lives of these immigrants who come to fi rst thousand kids to arrive at Teatro Sea Recommended for adult audiences. The United States to discover the harsh reality will personally meet The Three Kings as Gramercy Art Theatre, 138 East 27th of the American Dream. Recommended well as receive a free gift/toy. Teatro SEA, Street, NY. 8PM. $30. For reservations for adult audiences. Presented in Spanish 107 Suffolk Street NY. 3PM–6PM. Free. call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: www. only. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 For information visit: www.sea-online.info repertorio.org. East 27th Street, NY. 6:30PM. $30. For or call: (212) 529–1545. reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2013 www.repertorio.org. Comité Noviembre Annual Three Kings and Toy Drive, Location TBD, 4PM, For Repertorio Español presents El Insomnio WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2013 information call: 914 263-6599 Americano by Saulo García, directed by Leandro Fernández. “Insomnio ¡FELIZ AÑO NUEVO! DATE To Be Determined: Americano” is a tragi-comedy about the Happy New Year! January 2013 arrival of thousands of immigrants from all over Latin America in the United States. MONDAY, JANUARY 6, 2013 EL PUENTE presents its 26th Annual With his ingenious comedy, Saulo García, Three Kings Celebration. El Puente plays several funny characters portraying ¡FELIZ DIA DE LOS TRES REYES! celebrates with food, music and a stage the lives of these immigrants who come to HAPPY THREE KINGS DAY! performance retelling the story of the United States to discover the harsh reality Three Kings, teaching our children the of the American Dream. Recommended El Museo del Barrio Presents the 37th values of sharing and caring in our for adult audiences. Presented in Spanish Annual Three Kings Day Parade. community and preserving our cultural only. The Gramercy Arts Theatre, 138 Our favorite time of year is upon us! traditions. Every child leaves with an East 27th Street, NY. 8PM. $30. For Experience the live camels, colorful age appropriate gift. 850 Grand Street reservations call: (212) 225-9999 or visit: puppets, parrandas, and festive music Campus at Bushwick Avenue, Brooklyn, www.repertorio.org. and performances on this magical day NY. Free. For information call: (718) 387- – this year with a focus on the theme of 0404.

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