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Home - Bogota Latin Bistro & Mojito Bar Restaurant Park Slope Brooklyn New York

2011-12-17T01:29:00.000-05:00

New Year's Eve Event - Bogota Latin Bistro & Mojito Bar Restaurant Park Slope Brooklyn New York

Velez's View

2011-09-10T14:37:00.002-04:00

Please visit Velez's View at http://philvelez.com/blog

New Blog Design Theme for Velez's View

2011-01-28T17:23:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. I hope 2011 has been good for your thus far.

The new year brings a new design theme to Velez's View. Check it out and feel free to provide any feedback.

Happy 2011!

New Hosting Site

2010-02-27T16:07:00.001-05:00

After hosting this site on Blogger for almost seven years, I have decided to move it over to a self-hosting WordPress site. This took a great deal of research, time, and effort. It was a bit frustrating at first, but I finally figured out the required coding, file transfer, and hosting configurations. If you have this site bookmarked or linked to a blog roll please revise the URL to http:philvelez.blog. Please also visit the new site and give it a run-through. I'd appreciate any comments and/or suggestions.

This blog will remain live and I do plan on continuing to use Blogger at Fraternity Communication.

Thanks for your continued support.

Google Buzz

2010-02-21T20:26:00.007-05:00

Earlier this month Google announced its entrance into the social media landscape: Google Buzz. Some social media pundits say the networking platform and messaging tool is Google's attempt to compete with Facebook and Twitter. However, Google executives say otherwise. Bradley Horowitz, Google's VP of product management, says Google Buzz is not just about status-updating or checking in, but a new category of communication that will evolve over time. I agree. Google Buzz is more of a communication platform where you can integrate other online networks like Twitter and YouTube. I'm an avid user of most Google products and see Google Buzz as the social network specifically attached to my Gmail account. Google Buzz is a simple interface and a great way to keep in touch and interact with Gmail contacts. With Google's incredible reputation and reach, I'm sure it's just a matter of time before Google Buzz carves out its own niche in the enormous social media world.

Immigration to Puerto Rico

2010-02-08T23:09:00.000-05:00

Puerto Rico’s history of immigration may make Boricuas the most ethnically diverse people of the Caribbean. Puerto Ricans know about the three main ethnic backgrounds that make-up the Puerto Rican people: the indigenous Taíno Indians, Spaniards, and Africans. However other ethnicities have and continue to contribute to the Puerto Rican culture.

By the early 19th century Spain had lost most of its possessions in the New World except for Puerto Rico and Cuba. In hopes of securing these areas, Spain announced the Royal Decree of Graces in 1815, which granted the Caribbean territories the right to have commercial ties with countries that were in good standing with Spain.

Hundreds of French (especially Corsican,) German, and Irish families soon immigrated to Puerto Rico. They were later followed by smaller waves of Dutch, Greek, Italian, Maltese, and Portuguese immigrants who adopted the language and customs of the island and were completely integrated into the society.

An increase of immigration to Puerto Rico occurred when the U.S. acquired the territory from the Spaniards after winning the Spanish-American War of 1898. Immigrants from China, Cuba, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic soon became part of the Puerto Rican community.

Dominicans have lived on the island of Puerto Rico since colonial time with immigration coinciding with political upheavals. Today about 200,000 Dominicans live in Puerto Rico.

The large number of undocumented residents in Puerto Rico has become a hot political issue. The U.S. has yet to begin a serious conversation about immigration reform, however it will be interesting to see how new regulations will affect immigration in Puerto Rico. The recent devastating earthquake in Haiti is sure to affect further immigration of both Haitians and Dominicans to Puerto Rico.

In any event, U.S. and Puerto Rican officials should keep in mind that we have always been a nation of immigrants. Current U.S. citizens and political leaders should find ways to fairly welcome those seeking a better life and those who have already contributed greatly to the U.S. and Puerto Rican cultures.

For more on the history of immigration to Puerto Rico you can read the February political column at ElBoricua.com.

My Favorite Latino Blogs for 2010

2010-01-30T19:07:00.003-05:00

Last year I posted an entry of My Favorite Latino Blogs and thought I would revisit the topic for 2010. The blogs mentioned in the 2009 post are still great ones so I recommend checking them out if you have not done so already. There are so many incredible Latino blogs out there, but I decided to limit this 2010 post to my top ten favorites.

The Blog of Louis Pagan - Louis Pagan's blog, Latino Rebranded: Social Media and Latinos, keeps up with the latest in industry news and trends.

Efrain's Corner - Efrain Ortiz Jr. shares thoughts, culture, information, and history related to Latinos and the Puerto Rican diaspora.

Being Latino - a communication platform designed to educate, entertain and connect all peoples across the global Latino spectrum.

Solpersona - Frankie De Soto's blog studies modern Hispanic marketing and Latino culture.

The Adventures of a NYCity Mama - Carol Cain catalogues her personal experiences as she travels, tastes, and discovers all the family-friendly things to do with her three kids in tow.

My Feet Only Walk Forward - Brandon Lacy Campos, a gay poet, playwright, journalist, and amateur chef, chronicles his life's journey with raw rants, raves, musings, and poetry.

hisPANIC 2050 - Eric Navaja Cortes, a Colombiano and member of a Latino fraternity, blogs about "us" in the Estados Unidos with a touch of personality.

The Jose Vilson - Vilson, an educator, writer, poet, web designer, and activist, blogs about education, politics, and everything in between.

Inside My Head... - Latinegro openly and honestly evaluates everything in his life on the road to self redemption.

The Sol Within - The thoughts and inspiration of Anna Rodriguez, a wife and mother who finally takes the leap into the writing life she's always dreamed of.

I admire all of the Latino bloggers above. Each has something wonderful to share with the world and I'm sure you will connect with a few if not all. Please also check out the blogs/sites in my link exchange and blog list sections.

Feel free to leave a comment below on any of the Latino blogs listed or add one you think would be of interest to me and/or the readers of this blog. Thank you for supporting Latino bloggers.

Health Care Reform Must Become a Reality - Now

2010-01-23T12:50:00.008-05:00

With more than 45 million Americans uninsured, health care reform must become a reality. No matter what the obstacle, Americans deserve access to adequate affordable health coverage. Conservatives are trying to scare everyone into thinking the health care reform issue is dead. However, now more than ever, Americans all across the nation need to contact their elected representatives and demand health care reform now. No matter how difficult or challenging the process, health reform must pass. People with severe medical conditions should not have to worry about possibly declaring bankruptcy because of an unforeseen accident or ailment. Others should not be denied access to necessary care because of a pre-existing condition. Insurance companies should not pick and choose which Americans get health coverage and which do not. Hospitals should not be allowed to charge $50 for an aspirin. Much work and discussion has already gone into trying to resolve the health care issue and it would be stupid and irresponsible for politicians to turn back now. Americans, of all political preferences, deserve a reasonable, working, and fair health care system. If the topic is taken off the table now, Americans may never see another opportunity for positive health care reform.

Congressman José E. Serrano

2010-01-11T20:37:00.002-05:00

José Enrique Serrano, a New York politician who has represented Bronx residents and Boricuas for more than 35 years, is presently the most senior Member of Congress of Puerto Rican descent. As one of only two Puerto Rican-born members of the House of Representatives, Serrano has long been known to take the lead on Puerto Rican-related issues.

Serrano has long pushed for more federal support for Puerto Rico and considers Puerto Rico to be a colony of the U.S. He has repeatedly offered bills calling for a referendum in Puerto Rico to change its political status. The last time the question was put to a vote, Puerto Ricans narrowly voted against statehood and for keeping their status as a commonwealth. “I'm against the colony and I can live with whatever replaces it, either statehood or independence,” Congressman Serrano was quoted as saying in 2006.

In 2007, Serrano introduced a bill entitled the Puerto Rico Democracy Act. The bill would provide for a referendum that would give Puerto Ricans living on the island the choice between maintaining their present political status or choosing a new status. If a new status is chosen Puerto Ricans would have the option of being admitted as a U.S. State "on equal footing with the other states," or becoming a "sovereign nation, either fully independent from or in free association with the United States."

For more on U.S. Congressman José E. Serrano you can read the current political column at El Boricua.

From Sotomayor to Social Media: 2009 Year in Velez’s View

2009-12-29T21:32:00.006-05:00

Looking back on my blog posts for 2009, two distinct topics highlight the year: Sotomayor and social media. The year began with great excitement for our new national leader and finally some serious hope for political change. Posts also concentrated on blog development and social media in general, with focus on the enormous increase and recognition of Latino audiences online.

Prior to Barack Obama’s nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the highest court of the land, the President appointed the former Bronx Borough President to a high level administrative position at the White House. The Puerto Rican quarter officially debuted this year and the territory’s political and economic status were the subject of blog posts. I wrote entries about my experience with Twitter and my attendance at the first conference of Latinos in Social Media.

Overall, 2009 was an excellent year for Latinos and social media. I look forward to 2010 and am certain that both will continue to be influential.

Happy New Year!

Google Wave

2009-12-17T19:24:00.027-05:00

I was recently fortunate enough to be offered a Google Wave invite. As an avid Google product user, I had been patiently waiting for a direct invite from Google for a few months now. Finally, the wait is over. Google Wave has been called the next big thing in online revolutionary technologies. The Internet communications platform aims to provide an unprecedented real-time interactive experience. Google Wave was introduced back in May of this year and only several thousand invites were initially assigned. Google Wave just took the first ranking in Twitter's Top 10 Tech Trends of 2009. It is sure to become an incredible online force in 2010. I'm just catching the wave and will need some time to feel it out. I hope you get an invite soon. For now, check out the short video below for more info on Google Wave.

Blog Update

2009-12-03T11:49:00.006-05:00

Last January I really started promoting this blog online. Before that time it was mainly just a place for my personal writing. It has sure come along nicely. Thanks to everyone that follows it and has left a comment or two along the way. Every now and then I am asked, "What do you blog about?" I used to answer anything and everything, which was and still holds true. However, within the last year this blog has concentrated on a few solid topics: politics, Puerto Rican/Latino culture, and social media. I still want the freedom to write about what ever is on my mind, but those three subjects will remain the focus of this blog for now and well into 2010.

If you have not visited in some time, please check out my Best Blog Entries, the Blogroll/Link Exchange, and the Blog List, which are updated occasionally. I have also recently revised the blog's subtitle and added a few new social networking communities.

I hope to continue creating some good content, however if you have anything you'd like me to blog about please feel free to contact me via any social medium. Your support and continued readership is greatly appreciated. Thank you for stopping by.

Jorge Steven López Mercado

2009-11-23T00:26:00.014-05:00

Tonight I attended the New York City vigil and memorial service for Jorge Steven López Mercado. His horrific and senseless murder has been covered by My Feet Only Walk Forward and Blabbeando. Below are three pictures taken at the West Side Piers off Christopher Street on Sunday, Nov. 22nd. May there be justice for Jorge Steven López Mercado. End hate crimes now!

(Photos by Phil Velez)

The 2010 Census: A Push for a Full Latino Count

2009-11-18T08:34:00.009-05:00

A network of Latino leaders has been assembled to ensure an accurate count of all Latinos in the 2010 United States Census. Over 30 national and regional Latino organizations and hundreds of individuals in the U.S. and Puerto Rico have joined forces to create the Latino Census Network. The Network, which is a project of the National Institute for Latino Policy (NiLP,) aims to educate the Latino community on the importance of the Census and provide a united Latino voice on related issues and policies.

Results from the 2000 Census showed that Latinos became the largest minority in the U.S., however some say Latinos may have been underrepresented in the count. Data collected from the Census, which occurs every 10 years, is used to assign Congressional seats, electoral votes, and funding for federal and state programs.

Angelo Falcón, the president of NiLP, recently conducted a seminar about the 2010 Census at El Centro de Estudios Puertorriqueños at Hunter College of CUNY. According to political scientists, like Falcon, there is a serious under representation of Latinos on the Census Bureau work force. There are also needs for the improvement of Hispanic, race, language, and other Census questions to ensure a more accurate Latino count.

Mexican Americans are the largest Latino group in the U.S., making up 64.3 percent of the total Hispanic population, or 29.2 million people.

Puerto Ricans are the second largest Latino group, however it's interesting to note that most Puerto Ricans do not live in Puerto Rico. In 2007, the Census Bureau's American Community Survey set the number of Puerto Ricans living in the 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia at 4.1 million, slightly greater than the entire population of Puerto Rico (3.9 million.) For more on the Puerto Rican migration read the November political column at ElBoricua.com.

For the first time in 2010, there will be a bilingual Census form with just ten questions, which should take only ten minutes to complete. According to Falcon, the U.S. Census plans a massive three-month, $450 million advertising campaign targeting Latinos. An estimated $28 million will be spent on Spanish language media ads. The government also plans to use Twitter and new media to outreach to all Latinos.

The Latino Census Network would like to reinforce that Census data provided to the government is kept confidential. This is important because the Census Bureau hopes to again count undocumented Latino residents. An accurate count would provide federal funding to needed educational, health, and other community-related programs. An undercount of Latinos in certain local areas can undercut funding for police, fire, and sanitation services.

The network believes a real result in the 2010 Census will have important cultural, social, political, and economic implications for the entire Latino community.

Borimix Festival featuring Puerto Rican artist Joseph A. Burgos, Jr.

2009-10-30T13:01:00.006-04:00

The Society of the Educational Arts, Inc. (SEA) is co-sponsoring the Borimix Festival '09 with a visual arts exhibit opening Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7pm at the galleries of the Clemente Soto Vélez Cultural & Educational Center. SEA is a bilingual arts-in-education organization and Latino theater company based in New York City dedicated to the empowerment and educational advancement of children and young adults.

This year SEA is proudly dedicating the festival, and most specifically the art exhibition, to Clemente Soto Vélez, a Puerto Rican activist, poet, and journalist who mentored many generations of artists in Puerto Rico and NYC.

Among the showcased talent at the Nov. 6 exhibition is Puerto Rican artist Joseph A. Burgos, Jr., the nephew of legendary Puerto Rican poet Julia de Burgos. Joseph's art was most recently displayed at Princeton University.

The art exhibit, curated by Miguel Trelles with Luis Carle and Luis Stephenberg, runs from Nov. 6 to Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009. Admission is FREE. For more information call SEA at 212-529-1545.

Spending More Time on Twitter

2009-10-18T14:36:00.007-04:00

I have been spending more time on Twitter than any other social networking site. Twitter allows me to easily follow current news items and tweet stories I find interesting to others on Twitter. It is a micro-blogging service so I am still blogging, in a sense. If you like the overall content of this blog please feel free to also follow me on Twitter @philvelez.

Several months ago, after getting comfortable with Twitter, I began using TweetDeck, a program that allows people on Twitter to set up various columns to make tracking information on Twitter much easier. I most recently started using HootSuite, a professional Twitter tool that also allows me to create Twitter groups and search term columns, however one of the best things about HootSuite is the ability to schedule future tweets. Both TweetDeck and HootSuite allow users to manage multiple Twitter accounts. TweetDeck is a separate stand-along program you have to download while HootSuite is a browser-based program where no download is required.

Another helpful Twitter client site is Monitter, which allows you to enter real-time search terms of interest. Overall, I'm really enjoying Twitter and am using it more often to find and relay information, and keep the lines of communication open with other bloggers and people engaged in social media.

Puerto Rico Governor Luis G. Fortuño

2009-10-11T20:54:00.008-04:00

Things are getting pretty hot down in Puerto Rico. Late last month a union worker threw an egg at the Commonwealth's Governor Luis G. Fortuño. The egg incident was in response to massive government layoffs. According to union leaders, many state services will suffer from the reported 17,000 layoffs scheduled for November. Union groups are threatening a large-scale one-day strikeout, tensions are running high, and everyone is watching how Gov. Fortuño handles the pressure.

Gov. Fortuño was sworn into office on January 2, 2009, at a ceremony attended by five of the US territory's six living governors, the president of the Dominican Republic, Leonel Fernandez, and superstar Latino couple Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.

Fortuño holds the distinction of being the first Republican to be elected Governor of Puerto Rico since 1969, and the second Republican governor since 1949. He is also the second US Republican Representative elected from Puerto Rico in the island territory’s history.

Last month a group of about 30 demonstrators struggled with police in riot gear outside Gov. Fortuño's residence in protest of the additional layoffs the governor says are needed to cut into a $3.2 billion deficit. Fortuño and other top officials, including Police Superintendent Jose Figueroa Sancha, called for calm.

"We are at a tense moment in Puerto Rico. Journalists, the police, the union leaders, we all have to cool down," Figueroa said during a radio interview.

Activists charge that the conservative governor is using the layoffs as a step towards privatizing government services. Gov. Fortuño says he has to make tough decisions in order to save Puerto Rico’s economy.

“This is the time to act,” Fortuño said in a recent speech where he emphasized that although “the government might be in bankruptcy, Puerto Rico is not because it can emerge strengthened from the crisis.”

We will see.

LatISM NYC Conference Roundup

2009-10-06T14:09:00.011-04:00

History was made last week when a group of Latino leaders in social media met in New York City to formally build alliances and begin a national conversation. The conference brought together Latinos from New York, Dallas, Chicago, Atlanta, DC and LA, and was sponsored by Latinos in Social Media (LatISM.) During the opening ceremony, conference organizers Ana RC and Louis Pagan highlighted the explosion of social media and how mainstream corporations are using it to tap into the lucrative Latino market.

The opening ceremony included an awards show and entertainment by poet Jani Rose. Award winners included Mercedes Sanchez, George Torres, and Lance Rios who were all part of an impressive list of finalists.

The conference keynote speaker was Ramon de Leon who spoke of successfully using social media to expand his Domino’s Pizza franchise. Other conference presenters included Carol Cain, Claudia Goffan, Kety Esquivel, and the Acento Group. Victor Cruz provided conference participants with his unique form of Latino comedy.

Attendees discussed social media in direct relation to Latino audiences and noted that the conversation and content is key. Listening to the online conversation is also important in order to address specific issues of interest. Here are a few more conference messages:

• Social media is a two-way conversation
• The conversation is the new online currency
• Speak to and engage your audiences
• Be real and empower others
• Passion drives online traffic
• Use other media platforms to promote your main medium
• It’s important to get away from the computer and meet people in-person

LatISM is off to a great start. It has begun defining the organization and its goal and last week’s conference is only the beginning. Join the first LatISM Heritage Tour and directly connect with social media influencers of the Hispanic community.

Lemon Andersen's County of Kings

2009-09-30T23:50:00.012-04:00

Brooklyn-born Puerto Rican/Norwegian poet Lemon Andersen’s County of Kings is a one man show being presented by Spike Lee and the Culture Project. The show will begin its New York City run at The Public Theater on Monday, October 12th, however special-priced previews became available yesterday.

Featured last year as part of The Public Theater's ‘Under The Radar Festival’, Lemon Andersen's County of Kings provides its audience with a tough look into the life of a good kid raised by heroin addicts in the 1980’s.

“Lemon is a young man who possesses a wealth of talent and he knows how to tell a story. He joins the legacy of storytellers from Brooklyn” says Spike Lee

All tickets for preview performances of County of Kings (through Oct 11th) are specially priced at $25 (regular price $50-$60.) Tickets are available in person at 425 Lafayette Street, online at www.publictheater.org, or by calling (212) 967-7555.

Puerto Rico's Need for Health Reform

2009-09-20T15:35:00.011-04:00

A recent CNN article notes that 45,000 American deaths can be associated to a lack of health insurance. American citizens living in Puerto Rico are disproportionately affected by these deadly statistics.

According to a USA Today analysis of new government data, patients in Puerto Rico die at statistically higher rates from heart attack, heart failure, and pneumonia than those admitted to US mainland hospitals. While 11.6% of patients stateside admitted for pneumonia die within 30 days, that number rises to almost 15% in Puerto Rico. Death rates for heart attack are also above average (18.6% vs. 16.5%) and are slightly higher for heart failure (12.1% vs. 11.2%).

The higher death rates in Puerto Rico shine a light on unequal federal and state health benefits based largely in part to the territory's political status. For more information on why Puerto Rico needs strong health reform read the latest political column in EL BORICUA.

(Photo - Main tower at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus.)

The NYC Democratic Primary is Tomorrow - VOTE!

2009-09-14T12:34:00.008-04:00

So it's finally here. If you are a registered Democratic living in NYC, tomorrow is the big day. Polls open at 6am and close at 9pm. Read my previous post to locate information on your candidates. Once again, I'd like to add to my previous endorsements for tomorrow's Democratic primary election:

Bill de Blasio for Public Advocate
John Liu for Comtroller
Julissa Ferreras for City Council (Corona, East Elmhurst, Elmhurst, and Jackson Heights)

No matter your candidate of choice, the most important thing is your VOTE!

NYC’s Democratic Primary Election – Tuesday, Sept. 15th

2009-08-30T14:05:00.007-04:00

The Democratic Primary Election in New York City is just about two weeks away. If you are a registered Democrat in NYC, do you know who will get your vote on Tuesday, September 15, 2009?

Along with my prior personal endorsements, I would like to add my support for Tony Perez Cassino’s bid for New York City Council representing the 11th District in the Northwest Bronx (Kingsbridge, Kingsbridge Heights, Riverdale.) Cassino is challenging an incumbent seeking an unprecedented third term. Tony Perez Cassino is the change in leadership the Northwest Bronx needs.

If you live in New York City visit the NYC Board Of Elections website for information about your local candidates. If you live in New York State you can visit the State’s Board of Election page for information on elections in your area. For everyone else in the United States checkout Vote411.org.

Voting in the US is not just a right, but a privilege. Wherever you live, please remember to vote for your candidate of choice this election cycle. Your vote can make a difference. Be counted.

Hispanic Healthcare

2009-08-17T15:55:00.008-04:00

The entire nation is watching the healthcare reform debate. Some say the government should not have any further control over healthcare. However, the US Census Bureau estimated that 45.7 million people under the age of 65 did not have insurance in 2007 (senior citizens have access to US-based Medicare.)

Hispanics in particular are carefully watching the debate this summer. Some experts say health disparities among ethnic groups are great, with one in three Hispanics and one in five African-Americans not having health insurance, compared with one in eight whites.

A 2008 study showed that more than one-fourth of Hispanic adults in the US lack a usual healthcare provider, and a similar proportion report obtaining no healthcare information from medical personnel in the past year.

According to the Agency for Healthcare Quality and Research (AHRQ), part of the US Department of Health and Human Services, Hispanics' quality of healthcare - especially of those who speak little or no English - is declining. One reason is that Hispanics lack information about how to treat their illnesses and how effective these treatments are.

That's why AHRQ provides guides online at its Effective Health Care Home site so Americans can find reliable and practical data that can inform their healthcare decisions. AHRQ also provides Spanish-language resources online.

As the national healthcare debate continues people must be informed of facts and fiction to collectively create a system that benefits us all.

A Supreme Latina: Justice Sonia Sotomayor

2009-08-09T20:28:00.003-04:00

This weekend it became official. After much debate, speculation, and controversy, Bronx-born Boricua Sonia Sotomayor was sworn-in as the first Latina United States Supreme Court Justice. Sotomayor will become the 111th person and only the third woman to sit on the highest court of the land. Sonia Sotomayor has been the pride of Puerto Ricans and Latinos everywhere since President Obama nominated her to the US Supreme Court last May. She will forever be a part of American history.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Latinos in Social Media

2009-08-05T14:19:00.007-04:00

As the Latino population continues to grow, so does its online presence. A recent study shows that half of US Hispanics/Latinos have an online social media profile. Other studies show the impact Latinos are having in social media and our influence is being noticed by corporate America.

A group of Latino leaders in social media have created a movement online to get more Latinos connected with each other. Latinos in Social Media (LatISM) believes the best way to reach Latinos is through Latinos. LatISM has scheduled conferences in New York, Texas, and Florida during Hispanic Heritage Month. The conferences will bring bloggers, Twitters, Facebook, MySpace, Hi5, LinkedIn leaders and many more together to learn about the latest social media trends.

Conference organizers and some leaders of this movement include Nancy Arroyo-Perez, Louis Pagan, and George Torres.

If you're Latino get connected and join the movement, if you've not done so already.

philvelez.com

2009-08-02T18:16:00.003-04:00

I decided to create an official site for all things "Phil Velez" on the web. It's actually a Google Site that directs people to various links I have on the web. I then purchased a domain name to make the portal easy to find.

When you have some time, check out philvelez.com.

New York City Politics – My Personal Endorsements

2009-07-29T18:09:00.005-04:00

I’ve always been interested in politics. I’m a lifelong Democrat and have not seriously considered voting otherwise. I’ve never voted for Michael Bloomberg and do not plan to vote for him this fall. I never related to the billionaire financial mogul and didn’t appreciate his attempts to buy my past votes by flooding my mailbox with expensive glossy marketing materials. I’m a true Democrat and will be supporting Comptroller Bill Thompson's bid for Mayor of New York City.

A recent poll shows that Bill Thompson is gaining on Mike Bloomberg’s lead in this fall’s mayoral race. Thompson is seeing a surge in support from African-Americans and true Democrats. The GLBT community in NYC also strongly supports Thompson, including the Out People of Color Political Action Club, of which I am a member.

This fall I encourage the majority of New Yorkers who supported term limits to go out to the polls and show Bloomberg the strength of true democracy by electing Bill Thompson Mayor of NYC.

I would also like to throw strong personal support to my good friend Jimmy Van Bramer. Jimmy is running for a seat on the New York City Council representing Sunnyside, Woodside, Long Island City, and parts of Astoria and Maspeth, Queens. Jimmy’s campaign is gaining momentum and he and his dedicated staff is working hard to get the Democratic primary vote out on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009.

If you know registered Democrats in the 26th district of Queens, please ask them to consider voting for my friend Jimmy Van Bramer for NYC Council.

Embracing Social Media

2009-07-21T14:59:00.006-04:00

Best Buy Co., Inc. recently advertised for a new online marketing job and listed Twitter as recommended experience, specifically requiring at least 250 followers. More companies and organizations are using social media to market their messages and services. A recent report shows that companies with the highest social networking scores had 18 percent higher revenue over the last year, while those who interacted least through social media saw their revenue drop 6 percent.

Social media networks include Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, and LinkedIn to just name a few. Wikipedia defines social media as online content created by people using highly accessible and scalable publishing technologies and a shift in how people discover, read and share news, information and content. Social media is about networking and developing relationships with people in chosen fields of interest.

Social media can be used to help others who in turn can help you in promoting personal or professional endeavors. Social media takes time and involves offering valuable content and participating in conversations. The interaction itself creates the buzz for the subject matter, which if performed often and successfully can enhance a brand socially and online. It’s best to grow your network slowly and consider whom you want to target and how to find these people and/or businesses/organizations.

Social media has become so popular that the U.S. government has recognized its power. President Barack Obama made headlines this weekend after achieving another of many firsts: for the first time, the White House announced an upcoming full news conference through social networking Web site Twitter. The White House also has a blog, a Facebook and MySpace page, and uses YouTube and Flickr.

Millions of people are now embracing social media, however there are still millions more that avoid it altogether. Those who decide not to venture into this social phenomenon may find themselves falling behind socially and professional and having a tough time catching up to the masses. Don't be left behind.

All The Way Gone, a novel by D. James Eldon

2009-07-12T17:00:00.007-04:00

My friend DJ published a new twist on the crime novel entitled All the Way Gone. DJ has dreamt of being a writer for 25 years and has some short stories published. However he ran into obstacles in getting his novel published and decided to do so on his own. I admire DJ's commitment to getting his creative art out to the masses in an innovative manner and not allowing the naysayers to dissuade him from his artistic path.

Why has DJ decided to go forward and publish his own novel? Here's DJ in his own words:

“Have you ever had a dream, something you’ve thought of since you were a kid? Of course you have, everyone does. Maybe yours is to climb a mountain, ride a bicycle cross-country, run a marathon, skydive, write a novel, direct a film, have a child. Whatever it is, I believe each of us has it in them to live their dreams. This is my dream, to successfully publish a novel in America. And you can help me realize this dream.”

Please consider buying DJ’s book or passing along this information to someone who might enjoy reading a pull-no-punches tale of denial and deceit, but also one of friendship and trust. A human story wrapped up in a classic crime tale.

Puerto Rico's Economic Crisis

2009-07-08T00:20:00.006-04:00

The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico has seen its economy steadily decline prior to the global economic crisis and will likely continue to suffer after others see signs of recovery.

Puerto Rico has a history of economic problems. The Puerto Rican government is much poorer than the poorest U.S. state and its economy has always relied heavily on U.S. federal aid.

In March, Puerto Rico’s unemployment rate jumped to 14.7 percent from 12 percent in January. It was listed as 14.3 percent last April. However the Government Development Bank (GDB) for Puerto Rico, an agency that protects the Commonwealth’s fiscal stability, registered Puerto Rico’s unemployment rate at 15.8 percent, the highest in 13 years.

There have been some glimmers of economic hope, however much more is needed to get Puerto Rico on its financial feet. A large number of people are hurting everywhere. Puerto Rico’s recession has reached historic proportions and some predict the situation will continue through the summer of 2011.

For more information about Puerto Rico's current economy, read July's "Our Politics" column at EL BORICUA.

Fraternity Blog

2009-07-05T13:28:00.010-04:00

I also run a fraternity blog. I am a strong supporter of the social fraternity and sorority movement in the U.S. If you come across an interesting fraternity or sorority related story that sheds a positive light on the Greek community, please feel free to pass it along. When I was in college I decided to join a fraternity. In all of my life's decisions, joining a fraternity is one of the best I've made thus far.

Boogie Rican Blvd. "The Musical"

2009-06-29T18:50:00.007-04:00

Urban Latino Magazine & The Puerto Rican Traveling Theatre presents Boogie Rican Blvd., a musical showcasing a family's struggle between Latino tradition and the modern-day values taught on the streets of the Boogie Down Bronx.

The Pacheco family and their colorful collection of friends examine life, love and regret through dance and rhythms from the Caribbean and the Bronx. Boogie Rican Blvd. explores issues such as child abuse, drug addiction, gay bashing, teen pregnancy, and abandonment, in a way that leaves you moved, touched and inspired.

This is a limited four-week performance from June 30 - July 26, 2009. Come see how the playwright and performer, Caridad de la Luz ("La Bruja"), blows your socks off with her brute wit, potent intelligence and lyrical skills. Shows are scheduled for Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm on W. 47th Street in New York City. Prices per show do not exceed $45 for the best seats in the house. Get your tickets today!

7 GLBT Latino Bloggers to Watch

2009-06-24T17:00:00.009-04:00

Today, while glancing through the Twitterverse, I saw a mention of me in a reference to Latino GLBT blogs. I thought it was cool, but also quite interesting since my blog is not GLBT specific. Though I was thinking of posting my next blog entry on this year's Pride Parade or the delayed issue of same-sex marriage equality in the New York State Senate.

I then realized the tweet led to an online list of seven GLBT Latino bloggers to watch, and incredibly enough I was listed as numero cinco. I'm still like, "what?"

A site called MiApogeo.com (soon to be MyLatinoVoice.com) listed me as number five after a conversation with number one Latino GLBT blogger, and my longtime hero, Andrés Duque. MiApogeo is the fastest growing online destination for US Latino culture, entertainment, and current events in English.

Thanks to Andrés and the soon to be MyLatinoVoice.com for the listing. I am honored to be in such amazing company.

Business Blog

2009-06-21T22:48:00.007-04:00

A few months ago I created a business blog to market volunteer and professional communication services. I've enjoyed putting together a virtual place to record my education and past and present work experience. I recently created an assignments page to represent current projects. It's also a great way to promote the organizations. My business blog at the present time serves two purposes: it's an online vehicle to market volunteer and professional communication services, and an Internet résumé prospective full-time employers can review.

Boricua Pride

2009-06-17T07:34:00.013-04:00

(Photo by Phil Velez)
On Sunday, June 14, 2009, I marched for the first time in the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City. Thanks to my sister-in-law, who is an employee of Goya Foods, I joined her, my brother, sister, aunt, niece and about a hundred others in the Goya contingent down Fifth Avenue. The sea of red, white, and blue was magnificent, filled with prideful Boricua smiles and eyes of all ages. It was an experience of a lifetime.

The word Boricua is derived from the original Taíno name for Puerto Rico, Borikén: Land of the Brave Noble Lord. Boricua represents a proud sense of identity. Some people use the word interchangeably with Puerto Rican and others use the word to refer specifically to people native to Puerto Rico.

The most accurate definition of the word, in my opinion, is found in Roberto Santiago’s Boricuas: Influential Puerto Rican Writings - An Anthology. Santiago writes, "Boricua is what Puerto Ricans call one another as a term of endearment, respect, and cultural affirmation; it is a timeless declaration that transcends gender and color. Boricua is a powerful word that tells the origin and history of the Puerto Rican people."

I am presently reading Santiago’s anthology and recommend it to any one who wants to obtain a better sense and understanding of Boricuas: the valiant people.

New iPhone Prices Are Not For Everyone

2009-06-10T17:19:00.005-04:00

I have been holding out on upgrading my Sony Ericsson flip phone until the next iPhone update. This Monday Apple announced the new iPhone 3GS priced at $199 for the 16GB version and $299 for the 32GB version. It also dropped the price of the older iPhone 3G 8G version to $99. However there's a big catch: The new prices are only good for new and upgrade-eligible AT&T customers. So if someone presently has an iPhone 3G and wants to get the new 3GS, he/she will have to pay a ridicules $599 for the 16GB version or $699 for the 32GB phone.

iPhone fans are upset with Apple and its current contract with AT&T. Last year, when the 3G iPhone came out, existing customers were able to upgrade and pay the new price. This year existing iPhone customers will have to wait until they're eligible for an iPhone upgrade, or shell out hundreds of dollars.

I was told by Scott, an AT&T representative, that I will have to wait until September to be eligible for the $199 price for the new iPhone GS or pay $499 now for the new phone. Scott recommended I wait until September. Gee, thanks Scott.

I guess I'll hold out for another 90 days.

Puerto Rico's Political Status?

2009-06-02T22:30:00.007-04:00

(I recently joined the Facebook group "I Support the Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2009" and wrote a column in EL BORICUA about the unresolved issue of Puerto Rico's political status. Here's a synopsis - )

The future of Puerto Rico has been in status quo limbo since the 1952 constitution that officially created an unincorporated territory of the U.S. with commonwealth status. Puerto Rico’s political status is an emotionally charged and often culturally sensitive issue for Puerto Ricans on the island and mainland.

To understand the future of Puerto Rican politics one must visit the island’s past and present political status. Votes expressing opinions on political proposals, known as plebiscites, were held in 1967, 1993, and 1998, and Puerto Rican residents chose not to alter the existing commonwealth status over the possible independence of Puerto Rico or statehood.

Puerto Rico today does not stand unified toward a collective political status. Puerto Ricans must define Puerto Rico’s future. Commonwealth status was not intended to be a final political destination. It is time for Boricuas to move from the status quo and find strength to become the 51st U.S. state, or an independent nation.

(To read the full column in EL BORICUA click here.)

Judge Sonia Sotomayor, future US Supreme Court Justice

2009-05-29T15:14:00.012-04:00

I am extremely excited about President Obama’s United States Supreme Court nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor, who would be the first Latina to hold a seat on the highest court of the land. There has been much written about Judge Sotomayor since her nomination was made public on Tuesday, May 26, 2009. As a person of Puerto Rican descent I strongly support Sotomayor’s Supreme Court nomination, not only because her family is Puerto Rican, but because she is also qualified to hold the position and will bring a unique legal and personal perspective to our judicial branch of government.

According to Wikipedia, Hispanics/Latinos constitute 15.1% of the total US population, or 45.4 million people. Hispanics/Latinos have lived in the US since the 1565 founding of St. Augustine, Florida by the Spanish, the longest among European American ethnic groups and second–longest of all US ethnic groups, after American Indians. The Latino presence can even be said to date from half a century earlier than St. Augustine, if San Juan, Puerto Rico is considered to be the oldest Spanish settlement, and the oldest city, in the US.

There have been a total of 110 Supreme Court Justices, of which two were African-American and two have been women. We are long overdue for a Hispanic person on the US Supreme Court. There have already been several negative stories published about Sotomayor’s Latina pride and temperament and some Republicans have even gone as far as calling her a member of the Latino KKK. This is a desperate Republican tactic and shows us how low some conservatives may go to fight Sotomayor’s confirmation. I hope all Latinos and like-minded allies will come together to rebut these smear campaigns and ensure that Judge Sotomayor’s nomination is confirmed.

New Ways to Search Online

2009-05-17T15:56:00.006-04:00

Many companies continue to try to catch up with Google to become the premiere internet search engine. However, Google continues to improve its search capabilities and is the present leader in the internet search field. Two relatively new companies are making searching the internet a bit more fun and interesting.

Kosmix is a web search organizer. Put in a search term and Kosmix searches Google, Wikipedia, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, Twitter, and several other online resources all at once. It's pretty cool.

Wolfram|Alpha is a computational knowledge engine that can tell you what day of the week you were born or give you some real data on your home town. It can also provide you with information on the popularity of your last name. Wolfram|Alpha officially debuts tomorrow but you can give it a try today.

YERBABUENA at the Nuyorican Poets Café

2009-05-11T16:30:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday my sister and brother-in-law invited me to see Tato Torres and YERBABUENA at the Nuyorican Poets Café. I hadn’t been to the Nuyorican Poets Café in years and felt it was the right time to revisit the legendary stronghold of the Nuyorican art movement in New York City. The Nuyorican Poets Café, a non-profit organization in Alphabet City, has become a forum for poetry, music, hip-hop, video, visual arts, comedy, and theatre.

I learned of YERBABUENA (which means “good herb”) a few months ago from reading blog posts but did not know much about the group. YERBABUENA plays Boricua (Puerto Rican) roots music and is composed of musicians, singers, and dancers from the New York City area who share an intense passion for the musical traditions of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.

A new Boricua generation is embracing the group’s music that promotes the Puerto Rican musical traditions of bomba, plena and música jíbara. Seeing and feeling YERBABUENA for the first time at the Nuyorican Poets Café stirred a strong sense of cultural pride. It was like being around family you hadn’t seen in a long time. People danced in the aisle and I could not help but move to the music. I’m now a fan. If you get a chance, check out Tato Torres and YERBABUENA.

U.S. Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez

2009-05-03T20:34:00.007-04:00

Nydia Velázquez is a Latina of many firsts. She has been a member of Congress since 1992. She is the first Puerto Rican woman to be elected to the United States House of Representatives. The Congresswoman, who represents sections of Brooklyn, Queens, and Lower Manhattan, was also the first Latina to hold a seat on the New York City Council. Velázquez is Chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and was named Chair of the House Small Business Committee, making her the first Latina to chair a full Congressional committee.

As Chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus she is setting an agenda to ensure that Latinos are leading the way "Towards 2030," when the Latino population will make up 25 percent of the U.S. population. U.S. Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez is the subject of a recent political biography written for EL BORICUA, an electronic monthly cultural publication for Puerto Ricans. I will be writing future articles on Puerto Rican island politics for EL BORICUA. If you have a topic you would like to read about please feel free to contact me via email or leave a comment on my blog.

EL BORICUA's website and monthly magazine are dedicated to Puerto Rican descendants - where ever they might be - so that they can remember our culture, learn about their roots and history, and be proud to call themselves Boricuas and Puertorriqueños.

(Photo courtesy of Sourcewatch.org.)

My Take on “What is Twitter?”

2009-04-27T11:11:00.008-04:00

There are thousands of articles and blog postings on “What is Twitter?” This is my humble take. I joined Twitter about three weeks ago and so far I can see why the networking service has become extremely popular. Twitter can be something different for every one. Marketers use it to sell a product or service and news companies use it to get information instantly out to Internet audiences. But anyone, from Ashton Kutsher to the girl next door, can use Twitter to let people know what they’re up to, where they are, and what they’re thinking. Twitter can be used to find like-minded people who share your interests and passions, or it can be used to get a different perspective on things by following people anywhere in the world.

Twitter is like your own personal news wire. You can use to communicate with many people at once or directly to one person. You can use it to promote yourself or a charitable cause. You can follow people you find interesting and others can follow you. You can use it to increase traffic to your website or blog, or to find a job. You can use Twitter to keep up to date with trends in your industry of expertise or learn from people who are already successful in the field you want to enter. Twitter, along with other social media, has the potential to revolutionize traditional media. Imagine news and information being created and sent out by millions of people just like us? Newspapers may not be the only traditional media going out of business.

Each Twitter update is called a Tweet and if you Tweet you are called a Twitterer. There’s lots of Twitter lingo out there and you’ll catch on along the way. One of my favorite Twitter terms is Twitterican.

If you are new to social networking sites then I would suggest getting started with Myspace of Facebook before moving on to Twitter, but of course the choice is yours. Twitter is the hottest networking site right now and it may be so for quite some time.

philvelez on Twitter

2009-04-21T22:30:00.006-04:00

The Twitter phenomenon is out of this world. It's been mentioned on The View and Oprah. I joined recently and so far so good. Still getting the hang of it, but I do see its potential to possibly be the next big bang. Check me out on Twitter @philvelez.

Marketing Skills While Defining a Career Change

2009-04-18T23:07:00.009-04:00

Last week I lost my job. While venturing out into the world of the unemployed, I decided to market my skills directly as a freelancer and consultant. I aim to continue the full-time job search, but with millions of people losing their jobs now may be the perfect time to work for myself.

I am a writer by nature who loves to tell a good story. I’ve decided to combine my media and communication expertise into my own business venture. I hope to take time defining a career change and carefully reviewing future full-time employment steps. In the meantime I believe this transition is an opportunity in disguise. It’s a time to re-invent myself and clarify what I want to do with the rest of my working career.

Networking is key. If you know anyone looking for a freelance writer or communication consultant please pass along my new business blog: Velez Communication.

What Do You Know About Puerto Rico/Ricans?

2009-04-12T11:45:00.017-04:00

The United States Mint recently introduced the 2009 Puerto Rico quarter, so I thought I’d share some information on Puerto Rico and Puerto Ricans.

Puerto Ricans are made up of the indigenous Taino Indians who originally called the Caribbean island Boriken, Spaniards who conquered the island after Columbus "discovered" it during his second voyage to the Americas, and transported slaves from Africa who helped build the island after the Spaniards nearly wiped out the native Indians. The territory of Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the US whose citizens do not pay federal taxes or vote in national elections, but are provided US citizenship.

Puerto Ricans dance salsa, drink rum, and our staple meal is rice and beans with chicken, beef or pork. Our Christmas holiday meal generally includes a plantain-based tamale-like treat called a pastele and our beverage is a coconut-based eggnog-like rum drink called "coquito.”

Puerto Rico, generally referred to as an island, is actually an archipelago that includes the main island of Puerto Rico and a number of smaller islands and keys, the largest of which are Vieques, Culebra, and Mona.

If you are ever around a large group of Puerto Ricans (i.e. the Puerto Rican Day Parade in NYC or any large Puerto Rican family function) you will hear the shout of "Boricua! (Bor-ee'-kwa)" (accent on second syllable) which honors the original name of the homeland (Boriken) and commonly used to identify someone of Puerto Rican heritage.

For more P.R.-related information check out the Puerto Rican 101 page at EL BORICUA.

My Top-Three Prediction for American Idol

2009-04-08T21:43:00.005-04:00

After tonight there will be only seven finalists on American Idol. I have been watching the show all season and finally think it’s getting pretty good. In my opinion there is an obvious leader: Adam Lambert. He is already a star. Every time he performs I feel like I'm seeing him in concert. He is clearly in another realm and the one to beat. Adam, Allison Iraheta, and Matt Giraud should make the final top-three. We still have about seven weeks to go, so we’ll have to see how my prediction works out.

To Tweet or Not to Tweet?

2009-03-31T21:37:00.006-04:00

I am considering getting an iPhone once the next version comes out. I may be a little late in being completely connected, but I am ready to take the next technological step. I thought of getting a Blackberry, but I’m a Mac guy, so the iPhone makes sense for me. I am looking forward to receiving emails instantly and responding to blog comments in a timely manner, as well as using MapQuest and Google Maps to get around easily.

With all the Twitter hype out there, I thought would I Tweet or not? People say you don’t really understand Twitter until you try it. But I’m not sure I want to. I feel it would be repetitious since I’m already on Facebook and can use the status update to record my thoughts and happenings. So what would be the difference between my Facebook status update and a Tweet? I’m not sure, but if anyone on Twitter and Facebook cares to comment, please feel free.

Now I am not saying I won’t Tweet. Maybe I need to see what all the fuss is about. Once I’m wired I’ll make the decision. If I get what all the Twitter talk is about I’ll revisit this blog entry.

New Paltz, NY – My Second Hometown

2009-03-15T22:00:00.012-04:00

Yesterday afternoon I headed to the town of my alma mater, New Paltz, NY. Every time I visit New Paltz I am filled with great memories of my college experience. Born and raised in New York City, I left the Bronx after high school to attend SUNY New Paltz. The college town is just 90 minutes from New York City, but for me it was an entire world away. For the first time I was surrounded by mountains and trees and took in cleaner air and starry nights. The historic quaint village is located in the beautiful Hudson Valley.

New Paltz has trendy shops and great bars and restaurants. The area has some fine wineries and is known for apple picking in the spring and pumpkin picking in the fall. New Paltz is also home to Huguenot Street, “the nation's oldest street with its original houses.” If you want to get away from the crazy city for a relaxing day upstate, consider visiting New Paltz. I am sure you will find the little village of New Paltz quite appealing.

Bogota Latin Bistro & Mojito Bar in Brooklyn, NY

2009-03-10T22:50:00.006-04:00

My family celebrated my mother’s 60th birthday recently at the incredible Bogota Latin Bistro & Mojito Bar in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The place, owned by Farid and George, is one of the hottest Latino restaurants in New York City. The friendly staff is dedicated to excellent service and the Colombian and South American food will satisfy the pickiest appetite. My Puerto Rican family praised the food and filled 15 seats in the restaurant. Everyone left the eatery echoing a repeat visit. The red beans threaten perfection and the Mango Mojito is my favorite drink in town. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with accents of Latino culture and history. The amazing murals can stand alone in any art studio and the music selection caps off the overall Latino experience.

Billboard Latin Music Award Mall Red Carpet Event Can Take You To The Show

2009-03-05T22:00:00.006-05:00

The 11th Annual Billboard Latin Music Awards will air on Telemundo on April 23rd at 7pm ET from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. The Billboard Latin Music Awards honor the most popular albums, songs, and performers in Latin music.

The title sponsor for the Billboard Latin Music Awards, State Farm, is giving away two (2) VIP passes to attend the awards show and the official after-party, round trip airfare to Miami, ground transportation to and from the show, a weekend stay at a South Beach hotel, a makeover, and $500 in cash.

If you want to participate in a red carpet mall experience and sign up to win a VIP trip for two to the Billboard Latin Music Awards star-studded show, you can do so on the following dates and locations:

• Miami: Miami International Mall (March 6-8), Dadeland Mall (March 13-15 and 20-22) and Aventura Mall (March 27-29)

• New York: Newport Centre, N.J. (March 6-8 and 13-15), Galleria at White Plains (March 20-22 and 27-29)

• Chicago: Gurnee Mills (March 6-8 and 13-15), Navy Pier Health and Lifestyle Expo (March 20-22), Chicago Latino Book and Latino Festival (March 28-29)

• Los Angeles: Ontario Mills (March 6-8), Del Amo Fashion Center (March 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29)

• Dallas: Irving Mall (March 6-8)

• Houston: The Galleria (March 13-15 and 20-22)

• San Antonio: Ingram Park (March 27-29)

Writing, Reading, and Writing Blogs

2009-02-28T12:58:00.013-05:00

I believe every writer gets better with time and practice. One of the main reasons I created this blog was to have a vehicle to put my writing out there. I started this blog with no promotion. It was only my little place on the Internet to put down thoughts. Since the New Year the blog is now on several directories and linked to other blogs. It has already taken some turns and the twists will continue. I have written for some time, but there is still so much to learn about the craft.

According to Stephen King, the rule to becoming a better writer is “read a lot, write a lot.” I can definitely do more of both. The focus of my blog is to make content key. The blog has no main topic, which was intentional. I want to be able to write about anything and everything.

In an attempt to sharpen my writing skills, and learn from others on the Internet, I browsed through some writing blogs. I came up with a few that I have bookmarked and would like to share with fellow bloggers. There are many successful writers on the web and we can all learn from their experiences.

Here are some of my favorite writing blogs:

Reading and writing go hand in hand. You must read regularly to write well.

New York Post Cartoon Crosses Racial Line

2009-02-21T23:42:00.011-05:00

The New York Post went too far with a controversial cartoon published Wednesday. The tabloid is getting a lot of heat for a racist depiction combining the recent shooting of a wild chimpanzee with President Barack Obama’s work on the US stimulus package. This is not the first time a unit owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation has been accused of racism.

Now the NAACP is demanding the firing of the NY Post cartoonist and his editor. The subject is the talk of the town this weekend. Protesters made their disapproving presence known outside the paper’s office. Many are not happy with the Post’s apology "to those who were offended” by the cartoon and a Facebook cause to support boycotting the paper is spreading like wild fire.

I don’t read the New York Post. I always thought it was a piece of crap.

Bronx Borough President Carrión Joins Obama Administration

2009-02-19T19:13:00.007-05:00

I am extremely proud to see a fellow Nuyorican appointed to a senior position in the Obama administration. After months of rumors that Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrión Jr. may be offered a seat within President Barack Obama’s administration, last night I was excited to learn the buzz became reality. President Barack Obama tapped Carrión to be Director of the White House Office of Urban Policy.

Since Carrión became Bronx Borough President in 2001 over 2.2 billion dollars has been invested in residential real estate – resulting in 25,000 new units being built. He has directed 40% of his 2007 capital funding to housing development.

Carrión was born in Lower Manhattan and is of Puerto Rican heritage. He is the highest-ranking Latino elected official in the State of New York and also serves as the President of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials. In 1997 Carrión ran and won a seat on the New York City Council. Prior to his role as City Council Member he served as District Manager for Community Board 5 in the Bronx.

Carrión graduated from Kings College, a Christian liberal arts college in Westchester County and earned his Master's Degree in Urban Planning from Hunter College of the City University of New York. He lives with his wife and four children on City Island in the Bronx.

From Favorite Links to a Blogroll

2009-02-16T20:44:00.007-05:00

I have decided to change the name of my favorite links to the traditional "blogroll." In the blog world favorite links and/or exchanges are generally called blogrolls. Of course a blogger can title this feature anything he/she wishes. In addition to changing the name, I have edited the list to only include blogs that have agreed or chosen to add a mutual link to my blog. Nothing personal to those sites that were previously listed. A blog exchange is a valuable way to promote blogs that in turn assist in promoting your blog. This cooperative approach between bloggers helps us all. So, I would like to thank those who have added my blog to their blogrolls/favorite sites. I also encourage readers to take a moment to browse through my blogroll.

Will the Stimulus Package Save Us?

2009-02-15T20:47:00.010-05:00

On Tuesday, President Barack Obama will sign the $787 billion dollar stimulus package approved last week. Republicans are not happy, calling the package unlimited wasteful spending. However they did not offer a timely realistic alternative that would save homeowners, schools, and health care.

Pundits are pondering whether or not the package is enough or the right approach to fixing our broken and bleeding economy. The package is not going to get the country back on our financial feet right away, but it is something. Republicans may see it as a very expensive band-aid, however something needed to be done.

The approved stimulus package will help all of us. The financial government package will help the unemployed and the uninsured. Most working people will see a small tax cut that will show up as a few extra bucks in their paychecks. A large amount of money will go towards continuing and extending some unemployment benefits. And for the first time ever, the government will contribute to COBRA health insurance benefits for non-working people.

So will the plan save us from collective financial ruin? Maybe not right away, but it is a good start. Economists predict we will be in this miserable monetary situation for about two years. For now, we all need to continue watching every dollar, but keep buying what we need wisely to keep the economy moving.

Coldplay and Adele Should Be Big Grammy Winners Tonight

2009-02-08T13:25:00.014-05:00

I think Coldplay and Adele will be winners at tonight’s 51st Annual Grammy Awards. Coldplay is up for album and record of the year, as well as best rock band and pop group performance. I listened to this British band’s album all last fall and enjoyed it greatly. It did have to grow on me, however when it did I appreciated the band’s overall talent. I've heard of the group before this album, but now I'm a fan.

One of my favorite soulful singing divas these days is British singer Adele. Her voice is rhythmically rich and strong and her album has some wonderfully written songs. Adele performed last fall on The View and Saturday Night Live and should hopefully win either song of the year and/or best new artist. My favorite song is Cold Shoulder. It has a really cool beat and stands apart from the rest of the ballads on her album.

The Brits may make their powerful presence felt widely if Leona Lewis wins best record with her gigantic hit Bleeding Love. I won’t predict a winner in every category, however there is one that is tough to forecast. Best pop collaboration might be a nail biter. I'm leaning toward either Alicia Keys and John Mayer for Lesson Learned or Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown for No Air, however this category is really a toss-up.

Lastly, I have to root for Jennifer Hudson to win best R&B Album. This lady can sing and is the epitome of a soulful singer. I have not heard the full album but I think she is the one to beat. And after the horrific personal year she has had, my heart and soul hopes for win for Ms. Hudson.

So I’m done. Let’s see how well or bad I do with my predictions. Some choices seem like no-brainers but you never know with award shows. In any event, even if I get them all wrong, these artists are winners with me.

We Need This Stimulus Package Now!

2009-02-05T22:36:00.008-05:00

How much longer must we wait before our elected leaders approve the desperately needed stimulus package? The present economy is extremely weak, however how bleak does it need to be before our fearless leaders decide to get their collective act together? More and more companies are laying off thousands of people, interest rates are going up, and mail for the first time ever may now only be delivered five days a week. Imagine, no mail on Saturdays? If that’s not a sign things are getting bad, I don’t know what is. I do now that if something is not done soon we may begin seeing public hospitals, schools, and libraries close. Democrats and Republicans must come to an agreement real soon before a national financial panic grips our land from sea to shiny sea.

What If You Lose Your Job?

2009-01-31T11:34:00.017-05:00

In today’s economy thousands of people are losing their jobs every day. It’s a scary time and those of us with jobs should do what we can to stay employed. However, no matter what we do, unfortunately some of us will lose our jobs. This experience can be devastating, however it can also be an opportunity in disguise. An unemployment period can be a time to re-invent oneself. If you lose your job, use the unstructured time to find your passion, as well as your next job. There are a great deal of resources available online. Keep the faith no matter what happens.

Even if you have a job, it may be a good idea to save your 2008 tax refund and hold on to vacation days in the event you may need the cash later. Work and maintain your networking sources. What ever happens, keep a positive outlook. Our weak economic time will get better. For now, find ways to cut expenses. Begin researching what you would do if you did lose your job. Find ways to become more of an asset in your present position. No matter what, everything happens for a reason and you can find the silver lining in any situation if you look close enough.

My Favorite Latino Blogs

2009-01-24T12:55:00.012-05:00

While browsing the blogosphere to educate myself on what makes a good blog, I came across some excellent Latino sites. I thought I would share my favorites in a blog entry.

The Latin Americanist is an English-language forum for all things Latin American. Vivirlatino is dedicated to featuring all the latest politics, culture, and entertainment of Latino interest. American Taino is a site of commentary from the perspective of an American Latino.

The Latino Journal is a good blog that keeps track of various Latino-related news on the Internet. As a communication guy one of my favorite blogs is Cumba Media, a site that chronicles the diversity of Latinos and Puerto Ricans in history and the media. I also follow politics closely and found Latinopundit to be one of the best Latino political blogs out there.

Blabbeando is an LGBT blog that documents and informs readers of the international Latino LGBT struggle for equality. My favorite Puerto Rican-focused blogs are Puerto Rico Sun and Dondequiera.

Bronx Latino concentrates on news of interest to Latinos in the Bronx. I enjoy reading the perspective of William Dipini, an American of Puerto Rican descent. The best culturally-based Latino blog with a sense of humor is Sofrito For Your Soul (the Chancleta posting is hilarious.)

(Please also see My Favorite Latino Blogs for 2010 & My Favorite Latino Blogs for 2011.)

An Amazing New America

2009-01-21T21:09:00.013-05:00

I woke up this morning and turned on CNN like every other day before heading off to work. But it was a new day. It still seemed unreal to watch the coverage of the inauguration ceremony and celebration of the first Black President of the United States. I know it is our new reality, however I felt a wonderful weirdness throughout the day. Did this really happen? I know it did, but it's still just so amazing. Maybe I need another few days to really soak it all in.

(Photo courtesy of AFP - Agence France Presse.)

Blogging 101 - What I have learned so far

2009-01-18T02:42:00.015-05:00

I signed up for my first blog in 2003 but have not promoted one or fully delved into the blogging world until now. I have three blogs today: Velez’s View, Centered Soul, and Fraternity Communication. They are all part of Blogger.com, a free premier blogging network owned by Google. You can also set up a free blog with Wordpress.com or pay a reasonable monthly rate for a more advanced blog via Typepad.com.

Once you set up your blog you should concentrate on the look and feel of the site and post some content. Setting up a blog is fast and easy. Next you can promote your blog to contacts, family, and friends via email or online networking sites like Myspace and Facebook. Then it’s important to join a blog network to see what other bloggers are up to, build online relationships, learn from peer bloggers, and draw traffic to your blog. There are many blogging networks. I joined three: Technorati, BlogCatalog, and MyBlogLog.

Finally, you should bookmark blog info and web coding sites. Two of the best blog info sites are Problogger.net and DailyBlogTips.com. You do not need to know web-coding languages like HTML or CSS, but it may be helpful in the long run. One of the best places to start learning web-coding language is HTMLdog.com.

There are some incredible blogs out there. I will mention some in later posts. Until then, happy blogging.

MLK and Inauguration Day 2009

2009-01-14T21:35:00.007-05:00

Tomorrow is the actual birth date of Dr. Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. This year’s national holiday honoring the civil rights leader happens to precede, by 24 hours, the inauguration of the first African-American President of the United States. Since Monday I have found the level of excitement within me rising exponentially each day. I look forward to commemorating the three-day holiday weekend thinking about how far our country has progressed since Dr. King led the 1955 Montgomery Alabama Bus Boycott. I will also be thinking of next Tuesday’s inauguration of President-Elect Barack Obama. Inducting the first African-American US President a day after the national MLK Holiday is just incredible and will mark the beginning of a new world.

As I think of the MLK national holiday and Obama’s inauguration, I can’t help but recognized a few additional connections between the two occasions. It’s interesting to note that Inauguration Day has been held on January 20th since 1937 and the first federally recognized MLK holiday occurred on January 20, 1986. Another interesting fact is that Illinois, the state that elected Barack Obama its US Senator, is the first state in 1973 to adopt MLK Day as a state holiday.

Underneath my extreme enthusiasm I am realistic enough to know that the world is not truly going to change overnight. However, the election of Barack Obama as the next President of the United States is a sign that our country is moving in the right direction. Any thing is possible if we dare to continue to dream, just like Dr. King dreamed of a better day.

(Image courtesy of ObamaBling.com.)

Blog Name Debut: Velez's View

2009-01-12T20:25:00.008-05:00

After some research on blogs I have decided to name my blog "Velez's View." The link will remain http://philvelez.blogspot.com. If you have a link to my blog from your blog/site please edit the name when you have a moment. The update is not really necessary since your link will direct readers to the newly named blog.

The blog universe seems infinite and there is a lot to learn, but I will tackle the enormous learning curve that same way I manage the rest of my life: one day at a time. Feel free to comment on the name if you wish. If you can think of a catchier name feel free to make a suggestion.

LinkedIn.com and an update on blog development

2009-01-11T15:20:00.007-05:00

I have updated my blog to add more than 30 links to other blogs and writing sites. I first thought of browsing the vast blogosphere for like-minded word artists, but then thought of using LinkedIn.com, the professional networking site I joined recently. It was a great idea. LinkedIn has helped me find former classmates and past and present colleagues. It has also helped me connect to other bloggers and writers. If you have not yet considered LinkedIn as a tool to develop your professional connects, I strongly encourage membership.

I have enhanced my blog to include a site meter, a poll, and the option for readers to subscribe to, follow, or/and share the blog. I also moved some features around. My aim is to make the blog as interactive as possible. As I learn more about the blog world I hope to continue improving the look and feel of the site.

My last personal story was “The Cub Scouts.” I plan on posting more similar stories, but will also post general thoughts, including my personal perspective on politics, current events, and popular culture. I plan to also eventually write brief reviews on some of my “Favorite Blogs/Writing Sites.” Take a moment to look through some of the sites. You may find some of great interest.

If you can’t tell, I’m having a great deal of fun and look forward to building my blog and getting feedback. Your comments are very much welcomed.

Blog Development

2008-12-31T10:36:00.013-05:00

I have added a "Favorite Blogs/Writing Sites" section to my blog to promote the work of other bloggers/writers. If you have a blog or a writing website and would like to be added to this list please feel free to contact me. I hope to begin drawing some traffic to the blog. It has been a personal project for some time now, with very few eyes glancing its pages. I have linked it to my Facebook page and post selective entries on the social networking site for exposure. The blogs/writing sites link exchange may help get others to read an entry or two. I also managed to get the blog listed in a best of 2008 blog contest, though I am sure it's not the best, but being added to the list will hopefully draw in some new readers.

I am mentally preparing my next story, another childhood memory that may have shaped my life. We all have so many and it may be difficult to decide which events have the most significance, but I'll keep you posted.

Happy New Year!

The Cub Scouts

2008-11-27T14:32:00.007-05:00

For days all I could think about was the camping trip. As the date neared my stepfather scheduled an excursion to the sporting goods store to get the supplies I would need for my trip to the woods. We had the list of clothing and equipment in hand and headed to the store.

Being poor in the ghettos of Brooklyn and the Bronx during the 1970s was normal. It was so normal for me that I did not realize I was truly poor until I was about nine or ten years old. I did not really have a concept of poor because every one in our neighborhood was just like us. I do remember seeing some type of wealth on TV, like the Love Boat and Dynasty, but I thought it was mostly fantasy. Later I realized there were multiple levels of wealth and poverty in the world. We always had a place to live and ate dinner each night, so I did not consider us “poor” until the excitement of joining the Cub Scouts faded.

After leaving the Brownsville section of Brooklyn my family moved to the South Bronx. We lived on Kelly Street and Longwood Avenue, in the Hunts Point section. Back then our building lay next to an abandoned one for several years. When that building was torn down all the rats ran over to find new homes in our building. We lived with rats for a few days until they found permanent homes. It was a crazy time. I remember my stepfather fighting off a big rat with a broomstick in our kitchen one day. My stepfather won. Another time I woke and flew off my bed, terrified to find a dirty rodent lying next to me.

The good thing about the abandoned building coming down was we now had a huge vacant lot of bricks for our playground. I remember my sister and I would join the neighborhood kids in playing tag on the cement field. It became a skill to run fast and keep your balance through the uneven turf and not get tagged. A secondary talent was running through the field without getting a piece of broken glass or a rusty screw in our foot. I was one of the few successful kids. We considered ourselves quite gifted.

Eventually, to keep us out of the rubble next door, my parents sent me and my sister to a center they had found a few blocks away. The brown and yellow building housed the local Police Athletic League. I remember thinking it was nice of the police to create a place for us to play, and it was free. We went there several times after school. I played pool and ping pong most days and my sister joined a sewing class. One afternoon a flyer advertising a meeting for the Cub Scouts caught my eye. The idea of joining a specifically male group was pretty cool to me so I began going to meetings.

I learned the Cub Scouts was the first level a boy needed to complete before joining the Boy Scouts. The meetings taught us about honor and loyalty and prepared us for an annual camping trip. Soon the camping trip was all we could talk about. The Cub Scout leader provided us with consent forms and a list of items we would need for our wilderness adventure. The idea of actually walking around in the woods was fascinating to me, but also scary to think of sleeping on the ground with a bunch of strangers in a far away place. The new experience would outweigh my fear, so I told my parents I wanted to go camping.

The bell to the door of the Army and Navy store rang as the whiff of newness permeated my nostrils. The smell of leather and fresh cotton filled the air, mixing with the old wood of the floor and stocked shelves. The store was filled with rolls of military and camouflage clothing and all types of outdoor supplies.

I was a kid in a new kind of candy store. We looked at the sleeping bags and tents, lanterns and canteens. Then we examined the Cub Scout uniforms and the big heavy duty knapsacks. My stepfather carefully looked at the price tags for all the items on my list and said we’d come back to some things. He remained relatively silent as we browsed through all the goods. We picked up a blue belt here and a Cub Scouts cap there and continued through the shop. We then added a yellow Cub Scout handkerchief and headed for the counter. My stepfather paid for the limited items and we exited, hearing the bells hanging from the door ring once more.

We never went back to the sporting good store and I did not go on that camping trip. It was then that I realized we were poor. I subsequently stopped going to the PAL after-school program. I was too embarrassed and ashamed of showing my face again at that place. I was disappointed I couldn’t go camping, but I was more disappointed to realize then that there would just be certain things my family could not afford.

Personal Writing

2008-11-21T19:29:00.006-05:00

Last week I, along with seven other writers, completed an eight-week memoir writing course. The class was small enough for every one to provide each other excellent feedback and critical advice. The talent in the class was inspiring. The storytelling was open, honest, and daring. I learned a great deal from my classmates and gained more confidence in my personal writing ability. I have shared some of the writing pieces on this blog, however I will keep some private for possible future publication. I believe I have finally found the writing style that fits me best.

I took my first creative writing class back in college. Later I signed up for a magazine writing class that lead to a journalism career. I moved from journalism to public relations writing. In between I wrote my fraternity’s history booklet. I am a writer and will always enjoy putting words together to communicate a thought, message, policy, experience, etc. Every one has a story to tell and I believe we all have a book inside we can share with the world if we so choose. I’ll continue to contemplate the idea and hope one day I can put something together myself.

Ode to New Paltz

2008-10-26T02:48:00.002-04:00

Ode to the fresh mountain air
The dew that covers the morning grass
The stars so close you can touch
The autumn foliage so picturesque
The snow covered hills, that glisten in the sun
The vast athletic fields, full of memories
Of spring concerts, spirits, and dance
To the old main building
And its ivy covered walls
To the futuristic science hall
To the townies that call it home
To the city kids
Who learn how to fly
To the local bars in walking distance
To the thruway that cuts through town
To the place I called home
Where I learned to live
Grow and learn

The Nickel

2008-10-02T21:22:00.004-04:00

To this day my siblings continue to remind me of events in our childhood that I don’t remember. My younger sister is constantly telling me stories and looking at me puzzlingly when I don’t recall our supposedly shared experiences. When I think of being six years old I do remember my first day in school. Because of some enrollment deadline issues my mother missed I did not go to pre-school or kindergarten. I went right into first grade and do recall I was terrified that first day. I remember clearly that I cried. I, being the oldest of four kids, was the first off to school. I realized then that I would be the trailblazer for the rest of my life.

It must have been a much safer world back in the early 1970s, or my family was dangerously irresponsible to the point of child neglect. I say this because the most memorable moment that I can recall, being six years old, was a trip to the grocery store with my younger sister. My family lived in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, in a four-story yellow and green tenement with a small neighborhood grocery store on the ground level. I recall most of our food shopping was done at that store and the proprietors knew my family well. I recall one day my sister and I were given shiny nickels to purchase some candy from the store downstairs.

As I look back on the memory, the horrific part of it all was that my step-dad allowed my sister and me, six and five years old respectively, to walk down from our apartment on our own, outside our building and into the adjacent neighborhood grocery store. Growing up I was told Brownsville was a tough ghetto so it may have been worse when I was a child. I don’t know much about the neighborhood today; however there is no way anyone would let their six year olds out of their sight for a few minutes in today’s world, let alone out of their home alone with a younger sibling.

I remember when I was a kid we were one of the few Latinos in the predominantly African-American neighborhood. We did not know many of our neighbors for I hardly remember venturing out much except for school. Our building sat on a busy two-way street. I attended the public elementary school across from us which was next to another grocery store. Years later I recall my step-dad yelling out the window at me to cross the avenue to get him a pack of cigarettes, but I must have been seven or eight then. At six years old my only trip was to the store downstairs.

That day with our shiny nickels, I recall holding one in one hand and my sister’s hand in the other as we made our way to the grocery store. It was an adventure for us both. We entered, which may have been the first time ever in the store without our parents, and glanced around to see what our coins could purchase. We did not get to far when my sister’s eye caught the roll of red metallic fishbowl-like gumball and toy trinket machines, the ones where you put the coin in and turned the knob for your prize. We must have been very young for we really did not know the value of money or what our shiny nickels could buy. My sister noticed one of the machines containing colorful plastic rings encased in round plastic balls. Her eyes widened with the possibility. She put her coin in the machine and turned the knob. But nothing happened. The knob did not turn completely, but got stuck just inches from the center. It was just too small for the machine, not the right coinage for the prize. We tried to get the nickel out, but to no avail. My sister looked defeated, teary-eyed and hurt as she realized the lost.

I still had my coin in hand and lead her to a smaller gumball machine. I gave her my nickel, which she put in the machine, and this time it worked. Out came a descent size red ball of gum. My sister cheered up a bit, not the prize she wanted, but something nonetheless. I remember it was the least I could do. I thought I should have known better and not allowed her put her nickel in the wrong machine. It was the first time I guess I realized that I would need to protect my younger sister. The lesson I learned that day was that I was going to be the oldest one all my life and would have to support my siblings any way I could. I was too young really to realize what that little trip meant that day, but I will always remember it. One of the few childhood memories I still recall.

My Fresh, Not-so-fresh, & Fatigued Feet

2008-09-24T21:00:00.007-04:00

Waking in the morning well rested and rejuvenated, my ankles crack with a semi-whirl as my toes curl inward with a full body stretch to welcome the day. Click, click, snap. They are ready for their weary work out. They slowly reach for the floor to feel the soft old dusty carpet, or maybe immediately hit their targeted rubber Nike house sandals. My warm feet sense the cold soft plastic as they begin to support the weight of my half-waken body. As I walk around my one-bedroom apartment performing mundane morning rituals, I don’t notice them again until they are drenched in my aluminum rose-colored bathtub. My fingers and palms massage my feet in soapy water. After sliding through the top and soles of my feet, my fingers go up and down between my toes, feeling the rough calluses on the side of my big toes and the tiny corns on my little ones. A towel then dries them thoroughly as they prepare to be covered in cotton for the day.

In the morning my feet feel cozy and comfortable in my black leather dress shoes. After lunch they seem to begin to run out of room. Continuously hitting the hard pavement, marble and real and fake wooden floors, my toes scrape and press against the side of my shoes. By 6pm my feet are swollen and suffocating for relief. As I peel off my work shoes the odor of the day temporarily permeate my nostrils. Not that bad I have to say, except on those rare days when I wear my emergency nylon socks I keep at the bottom of my sock drawer, tucked away for when I don’t do laundry for a while. My feet breathe again with life, gradually shrinking back to normal size as the blood begins to circulate through their throbbing veins.

After dinner I levitate them on my living room couch, on top of a pillow, rewarding them for a full day of activity and torture. I watch the nightly news staring occasionally at the pair, as the entire stress of the day evaporates with the not-so-fresh scent of the day. Then as the evening progresses the rest of my body catches up to how my feet felt all day. I try not to move around much during my prime time shows, just recuperating, healing, and preparing again for the same routine tomorrow.

Finally, my feet and the rest of me are all ready to call it day. My feet slowly make their way to my bedroom and slide out of my sandals flying up lightly onto the bottom of my bed. Ahhh. I perform another complete stretch, click, clack, crack, and my feet are ready again for their reward for a good day’s work. During the night they comfort each other, big toe calluses kissing in the darkness, until the next time they snap to be awakened once again.

Memoir Writing Class

2008-09-17T20:28:00.010-04:00

I attended my first memoir writing class last night. At first I was a bit weary of the group, feeling out of place and wondering if I could share personal thoughts immediately with a group of strangers. But after the go-around of individual introductions we got right down to business. We were asked to conduct our first freehand writing assignment. After hearing every one's piece and sharing my own, I knew I was in the right place. There I was, in a small cozy room full of immense writing talent. We expressed creative vulnerabilities with each other in the hopes of becoming better writers. There were some wonderful writers in that room and I felt honored to be among them. I am sure I will learn a great deal about memoir writing from this group and hope to contribute something as well. I am very excited about the class and look forward to the next eight weeks. I have taken writing classes in the past, however never in this style. I hope to share some of my assignments on this blog. Feel free to leave a comment if you feel moved to do so. In any event, I hope you enjoy my efforts.

The Next President of the United States

2008-08-31T20:30:00.006-04:00

Labor Day is just about over, and now is the time for all Americans to make a choice. Yes, I know you have heard this before, but this upcoming national election is very important and will shape the future of our country. For those of you who are still not registered to vote or have not voted in a while, please become active or more active in our political movement. We need to come together, a majority of us, to create the kind of country that will improve the life of masses and unify Americans in a common national, global, and humanitarian goal.

I am a proud supporter of Barack Obama and will wholeheartedly support the Obama/Biden ticket. McCain demonstrates a life-time of political commitment and Palin is a fresh face in the Republican Party. However, eight is enough. The overall conservative direction of our country is not working. Rents and the price of food continue to go up. Overall, it just costs more to live in this country and more and more people are heading into poverty.

The next election will say a great deal about this country. I am excited to witness the process and be part of this historical moment in politics. Politics is about life, our neighbors, our schools, the price of gas, the diminishing value of US homes, and the increase in rent. Get involved. Believe that you can make a difference. Believe that your vote does really count in the long end. It starts with our collective goal to make the world a better place. Take some action or more actions to get or stay involved. If you still remain cynical about politics in general, and believe it just doesn't really matter, please, please just consider making one small change. Vote.

Writing What?

2008-07-20T15:03:00.005-04:00

It has been a while since I posted an entry and thought I would just check in. I have been thinking a great deal about writing and what it means in my life. My professional career has taken many turns. During some parts of my life writing played a major role and some years it was non-existent. Even when I did take a detour and tried something else, like community and political activism, writing continued to be a part of who I was inside. I feel like there is something, a great piece or story, maybe even a book, that wants to come out. Fear and a lack of confidence has prevented me from exploring this notion. But life is short. A good friend of mine is terminally ill and his life struggle has caused me to examine my own and what I want to make of it. There has not been any consistency in my professional life and even today I find myself looking at other possible paths. No matter what I decide, I need to work on a personal writing project that will combine all my creative efforts. I feel there is something inside me that needs to present itself to the world. I just need to dig deeper into my soul and find the courage to put it out there. I have a few ideas, but the time has come to put the fear I have created aside and let the words just flow.

Thank you, Tim Russert

2008-06-18T22:54:00.004-04:00

Tim Russert showed every one what it means to be a great journalist. The response to his death has been incredible and he leaves a huge professional gap in the political media world. I learned a great deal watching him ask insightful questions. I can't imagine who can possibly event try to fill his shoes. His personal story is one that illustrates the wonderful opportunities this country has to offer. I like millions was shocked to hear of his passing and spent the last weekend taking in his life and contribution to field of journalism. May he rest in peace.

Puerto Rico

2008-05-27T19:05:00.008-04:00

With Puerto Rico now playing a vital role in the Democratic National nomination I was excited to read the recent Op-Ed piece in the New York Times. If you have not read it, please do if you are interested in the issue of Puerto Rico's status as a US commonwealth. The news piece is so amazing that I have posted it to my Facebook page and plan on sending it out to family and friends. Puerto Ricans on the island are at a standstill regarding whether the majority of residents want to become a state, remain a commonwealth, with a less popular notion of becoming an independent country (which is not going to happen in my opinion.) I personally support it becoming the 51st state but you can find many who prefer the status quo. The Puerto Ricans on the mainland of the USA need to really watch what's going on en nuestra isla de sangre, cultura, y corazon. And with the National Puerto Rican Day Parade happening on Sunday, June 8, I have to represent my proud people. Boricua!

It's time for Hillary to Give Up

2008-05-07T22:04:00.005-04:00

It's time for Hillary to wrap it up and call it a day. She is not going to win more delegates than Barack Obama and the super delegates will have to support the winner of the popular vote. It's just time. The longer she stays in the race the more divided the Democratic Party will become. We need to stick together behind one candidate against John McCain. Barack Obama has proven that he is that candidate. I really hope Hillary wakes up and puts her ego aside for the greater Democratic good. She'll make a great Vice President, if that's what Obama chooses. Let's move on and get ready for a great general election battle against McCain and a major positive change in national politics.

A Prose Poem of Passion

2008-05-03T17:59:00.009-04:00

As the sexless dreary day ends in darkness a wild and wondrous world emerges. Recurring realms of perceived realities manifest themselves nightly. The energy of the evening raises expectations exponentially.

The probability of pleasure through a prancing party is clear in the air. People become real and whomever they care to be. Maneuvering through music in close cozy sectioned quarters within a large arena, bodies search for conversation, company, and conquest.

Singles seeking to awaken an inner life left dormant during the day consume inhibition juice to feel refreshed and free spirited. The mystical midnight hour opens multitude planes of make-believe. Creeping crowds dressed in their best sway and swagger through the club.

Scantly covered waists of various sizes parade their packaged goods through a sea of slim and strapping studs. Confident stances surround sexual dances as eyes meet and souls briefly greet, looking for that fleshy sensation, that right connection. Gropes and grinds are showcased for spectators who can only fantasize of being in others' shoes.

Bouncing breasts and tight wide chests bump to a blaring beat. A deep deafening bass bashes eardrums while a frenzy of flashing hot lights shine on the masses.

Strangers step on each others' toes in their quest to find a dance of desire, a chance encounter that may lead to a brief moment of magic or perpetuity of passion.

(Originally written for a writing class in February 2006.)

Facebook is Amazing

2008-04-27T21:34:00.004-04:00

These online social networking sites are incredible. I think they are the best way to keep in touch with family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. Along the way you can also meet new people and develop your own online network. I first joined a network in Friendster.com. It was pretty cool. Then I created my own Myspace page. Myspace has become an Internet and social phenomenon. Most recently I set up a Facebook page. Of the three, I like Facebook most and have found myself using it a lot. Myspace is still cool. I probably will update that site again soon. I think Facebook is easy, user friendly, creative, innovative, and the program interface works extremely well. It is a great way to interconnect all parts of my life and interests. It's also a great way to promote communication in general, my fraternity, and this personal blog. I think I'll start asking people in my life that are not part of an online network to consider joining one. I'm having fun, reconnecting with past pals and keeping better touch of current contacts, family, friends, and fraternity.

Spitzer's Stupidity

2008-03-11T22:07:00.005-04:00

After twelve years of Gov. Pataki New York State desperately needed a strong, dedicated, and brilliant Democratic Governor to lead the great Empire State. We got just the right Governor in Eliot Spitzer; or at least I thought we did until yesterday. The dreadful news that Governor Spitzer paid for a high-price prostitute shocked and angered me. The first thing that came to mind, after the shock and anger, was how stupid could he be? He was the Attorney General of New York State. He knows how the law works, he knew the danger involved if he got caught. The hypocrisy is what pissed me off the most. I voted for Spitzer and thought we finally had a great leader. Now I just don't know any more. This is the kind of scandal that makes voters lose faith in the political system. If someone as straight-laced as Spitzer could do something like this, what does this say about politicians in general? Who can we trust? Are politicians just in it all for the power and glory? Do they really care about the people they lead? It's discouraging and makes me wonder about world of politics overall.

Barack Obama

2008-03-01T06:00:00.004-05:00

I have decided to officially support Barack Obama for President of the United States. I was a Hillary Clinton supporter and like her a great deal, however Barack's passion and inspiration moves me. I first started to seriously consider Barack Obama the night he won the Iowa Caucus. I was surprised that a Black man won in a predominant white state. When I heard his speech that night, the first time I had ever heard him speak, I was so touched by his message of unity and hope that I shed a few tears. No politician had ever moved me like that. Since then I have followed his progress in the 2008 Election. Hillary has been great, she knows what she's doing, has a lot of experience and is a strong politician. But Barack represents a future political world that can bridge large gaps in our community. Young people and people of color are coming out of the woodwork to support him and I think that's just incredible. More people need to get involved in politics to really make a difference in our country. So, my full support now goes to Mr. Obama, a man who dares to dream and create change for all of us who have felt unheard and uninspired.

May You Rest in Peace, Heath Ledger

2008-01-23T23:07:00.003-05:00

So sad about Heath Ledger. I feel for him. Such potential lost so suddenly and unexpected. I of course did not know the man, but I am still sadden by his death. It just continues to show me that you never know when it is time for someone to go. You have to enjoy life. Generally this sentiment would go in my journal, but the current event of Ledger's mysterious death fascinates me as it does the general public. What did he die of? What would take the life of a 28 year-old man? Such a waste. I hope there is some positive outcome to his death in the end. My thoughts and prayers go out to his young daughter and family. Ironic that he dies on the day the Oscar nominations are announced. His death also happened to occur on my birthday. What a coincidence. I will wait patiently until the toxicology report is out in a week or two. I hope it was just an accident. If not, then this will be an even more tragic story.

Clinton or Obama?

2008-01-05T13:56:00.001-05:00

When I first learned Hillary Clinton was going to run for President I was very excited about the possibility of this country electing the first women to the highest office of the land. Presently I'm a supporter, however I recently became inspired about Obama's message. I was very happy Obama won the Iowa Caucus. I was moved to tears when I heard his speech, which surprised me greatly. Now I am waiting to see how the next few weeks work out. I still like Hillary, but electing the first black man as US President is also very appealing. I used to be a member of a community board and two political clubs and have since taken a break from politics, mainly because I lost faith in the system and the ability for an individual person to make a difference. Now, with Obama breaking barriers, my interest in politics has peaked. Obama has enlisted young people into the process and that is significant for the future of politics. I would love a Clinton/Obama Democratic ticket, however now, an Obama/Clinton ticket looks pretty good to me too.

My Blog, revisited

2007-12-31T16:39:00.002-05:00

I have spent the last few days of 2007 re-designing and updating my blog. I created one a while ago but just never really ran with it. Now I am ready to give it another shot. I added an old journal and hope to pick up on blogging personal thoughts and dreams. My main personal page will be more journalistic in nature, and I plan to publish commentary from time to time. Also just wanted a central place to link personal sites and keep in touch with people. My New Year's resolution is to write. I have pieces here and there, on disks, writing journals, and I am sure other places I have note mentioned. With 2008 I aim to put it all down in cyber space. I have some major decisions to make this year and would like to chronicle my journey. I'm looking forward to reading back my experience. Take care every one, and have a happy and wonderful 2008. Peace and love.

The Writing Bug

2007-12-27T20:14:00.002-05:00

The writing bug has come back. I tried the communication and general public relations world for a while. Now I feel it's time to get back to my first great interest. I am a writer by nature and have for so long not fully embraced my talent, or acknowledged it. Enough procrastination. I just need to write.

The End of Summer 2006

2006-09-02T13:17:00.002-04:00

Another summer gone. Lots of changes this year. I started a new position at work in May. I ended a relationship in May as well, and moved to a new place in the Bronx in July. Just settling into a new phase in my life. Right now, as Labor Day Weekend begins, I find things falling into place. I love my new apartment and work is going well. I plan to just enjoy the fall and think about what the future holds for me. I turn 40 in January, so I am reflecting on what the first half of my life has brought me and what I want the second half to look like. Some major decisions will be made within the next year, but for now, I just plan on going with the flow and feeling my new life out for a bit.

A Little Bit About Me

2006-05-06T19:25:00.004-04:00

Thank you for visiting my blog.

My name is Phillip Luis Velez. I am a native New Yorker of Puerto Rican descent (Nuyorican.)

I was born in Brooklyn and raised in the Bronx. I went to Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers in lower Manhattan. I received a bachelor's degree in communication media from the State University of New York at New Paltz and a master's in corporate communication from Baruch College of The City University of New York.

I am an active alumni member and historian of a prestigious regional and multicultural fraternity in New York State. I am presently employed with the health services division of an ivy league university.

Finally, a personal blog

2006-04-19T23:12:00.003-04:00

Hello. I have finally decided to create a personal blog. I'm relatively a shy person, but feel it's time to share, with those who care to know, what makes me tick. I think I have an interesting life story and look at the world in a positive light. Along my creative writing journey, please feel free to contact me if you come across something you can relate to, or if you simply want to share a thought or comment. I believe everyone should write their life story. We are much more similar than we know and can learn a great deal from each other. I am sure I will learn a lot about myself along way. Thank you for reading.