Letter from la Editora: 6
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Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and happy 15th Anniversary to Latin Times Magazine!
Thank you for another great Year!
Hello my friends!
and praying about this decision, looking at all 4 candidates, even the 2 that “cannot It is hard to believe that we are again win”, the decisions are so hard to make, on the “eve” of another new year, time I hear that from a lot of different people. passed so quickly in 2016! Our 2016 Personally, I like Hillary, but I am scared of went by in a flash, a great flash as we all the stories they say about her, if they are celebrated Latin Times Magazine 15th true, then we are in trouble, if they are not year anniversary and were honored true than America will being to heal. As to feature some great EXCLUSIVE interviews with talented U.S. Hispanics for “el Trompo” I have had this love/hate thing going on in my mind when it comes / Latinos such as; Oscar Torre, Clifton Collins, Jr, Ivonne Coll, Jaina Lee Ortiz, to him. El Trumpo has his strengths which is the ability to build strong and much Chuti Tui, and MORE! needed alliances and to bring a breath of fresh air by creating a dramatic change to In 2016 we also celebrated 6 years of Washington, pero he has no self-control, hosting the now world famous Cuand he looks down on 75% of America, ban Sandwich Festival and 3 years of women, minorities, etc., he is an elitist hosting our Smackdowns; which are now in Orlando & Miami, Florida, and who has learned how to use his money and power well and often against our minori6 years of making the Biggest Cuban Sandwich in the World, which in 2016, ty communities, which include women, African Americans, Hispanics and others. we made the Biggest Cuban Sandwich in the world first at Valencia College, in The debates only allow for these two (2) parties to participate in nationally covered Orlando, FL and the sandwich measured 120 Ft. We later made the Biggest debates, but I wish the nation had the opportunity to have all four (4) candidates’ Cuban Sandwich in the world, beating debate. That way the little guys have a fair the Orlando record at HCC – Ybor Campus. That sandwich measured 128 shot as well. That being said, this election is in God’s hands, use your vote wisely, vote ft. Both the Sandwiches were cut up your conscious, whoever that is, candidate and donated to feed the homeless. In 2016, Latin Times Media, Inc., the Cu- 1,2,3 or 4 - study, and pray about your deban Sandwich Festivals, along with the cision, what is meant to be -will be, and at the end of the day it does not matter who is support and donation of our sponsors president, because Jesus is still the king. and supporting restaurants, were able to feed almost 800 homeless people!
February: Cuban Sandwich Month. Come and watch us as we attempt to make the BIGGEST Cuban Sandwich in the World!
How was your 2016? Tell me about it Join us for one of our upcoming at: Jolie@Latin-Times.com -and I will Cuban Sandwich Festivals! post inspirational stories to our website: Metro Orlando, Florida 2nd Annual Orwww.LatinTimesMedia.com lando Cuban Sandwich Smackdown: Saturday, Feb 25th, 2017 for our 2nd Annual What will 2017 bring our Cuban Sandwich Smackdown in Orlando, nation? What will it bring our Florida. The event will be taking place at community? Not for nothing, but Valencia College: 1800 S. Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL. This is a Free Family event, this is the worst and hardest decision with a dedicated area for kids! In 2017, ever. VOTING for our NEXT Presiwe will also be integrating ART into the dent. Even as this issue goes to press, festival and will feature many local talents. we are still undecided, still studying The Mayor of Orlando has proclaimed
In closing, I am looking forward to the adventures and the challenges that lay ahead, as we focus on growing our ministry, our media business, and our event schedule, and introducing our NEWEST EVENT, the Taste of Latino festival, which will be held in the Tampa bay area in 2017.
Do you love Cuban Sandwiches?
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Tampa Bay, Florida; 6th Annual Cuban Sandwich Festival: VIP Opening Night: Friday, March 31st, 2017 (location TBA) Biggest Cuban Sandwich in the World; Saturday, April 1st, 2017 and The BIG DAY is Smackdown; Sunday, April 2nd, 2017: Festival Address: 1320 E. Palm Ave, Tampa, Florida 33605 (Ybor City, Palm & 13th -across from the Cuban Club). Featuring chefs and restaurants from all around the world competing for the Title of World's BEST Cuban Sandwich. Over 50,000 People Expected at the 3-day event! Miami/South Florida; 3rd Annual Miami Cuban Sandwich Smackdown @ CALLE OCHO, Sunday, March 12th, 2017 @ Calle Ocho! This event just joined forces with the largest Hispanic/Latino Festival in the United States. Hundreds of food, art and cultural vendors! DOZENS of VIP & Celebrities! Over 1 MILLION People attend! Do you know someone that makes a great Cuban Sandwich? Invite them to join the contest: CubanSandwichFestival@ Latin-Times.com Stay tuned to our events page for more great Florida events: http:// latintimesmedia.com/events/
Gracias y God Bless you, Jolie Gonzalez-Padilla Founder/CEO/Publisher Media Site: www.LatinTimesMedia.com Marketing, Advertising & PR Services: www. Latin-Times.com Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
LatinConexiones.com, is quickly becoming the worlds preferred bilingual and Latino Community relationship website. It’s only been a few short months since the soft launch of the popular new website “LatinConexiones.com” and already the niche social relationship website has experienced a tremendous welcome from not only the nation, but also from Latin America and the world in general. LatinConexiones.com has watched in amazement as its membership has grown, spreading throughout the world, receiving registrations from bilingual singles in 24 countries so far, including Europe, the far east, Latin America as well as in 32 states within the United States! The widespread acceptance and popularity confirms that the Latino/Hispanic and Caribbean communities have long needed a social relationship site that focuses on the core values, language and culture of these beautiful communities. LatinConexiones.com is an open social platform that respects its members’ religious beliefs and sexual orientation. Founder, Hig Rodriguez-Dillinger shared the goal of the new website, “LatinConexiones. com is unique, in that it focuses on the highlighting each members’ individual qualities. The goal of the website is for bilingual people to find love, and to develop friendships and relationships in the social setting that we have all become accustomed to. The difference between LatinConexiones. com and other bilingual dating sites is that, we encourage the development of relationships
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in an environment that allows all members to feel welcome. We don’t encourage the exploitation of men or women, and we do not allow our members to post overly provocative or trashy pictures. We encourage all members to celebrate their rich culture and to openly share they’re hopes and dreams.” The site is focused on contributing to the overall betterment of the Latino / Hispanic and Caribbean communities so they can continue to hold onto their rich traditions, cultural heritage, religion, family and personal values. LatinConexiones is the first bilingual website available that encourages its members to feel comfortable enough to be “real” and themselves, in an environment that allows them to be recognized and appreciated for qualities and values beyond the physical and attributes often emphasized and highlighted in other “dating” sites. The site is also committed to empowering
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its members to build their profiles to fully feature and present all of the good things they can bring to a loving, long-term relationship. Support is available to guide members on posting photos that complement that first impression. In addition, LatinConexions.com offers one of the most extensive guides to help members build the perfect profile so that others will be interested enough to enter into communication with them. For many people it is very difficult to be objective about themselves so they do not write enough, or they write too much, LatinConexiones.com offers support. We did not set out to change the face of dating sites for the Latin / Hispanic and Caribbean communities but we do feel that those communities are better served with the care and concern that we have at LatinConexiones.com Singles interested in developing a relationship are encouraged to become a member at: w w w. L a t i n C o n e X i o n e s . c o m About LatinConexiones.com: LatinConexiones.com is an open social platform that respects its members’ religious beliefs and sexual orientation. The site is focused on contributing to the overall betterment of the Latino / Hispanic and Caribbean commu-
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nities so they can continue to hold onto their rich traditions, cultural heritage, religion, family and personal values. LatinConexiones is the first bilingual website available that encourages its members to feel comfortable enough to be “real” and themselves, in an environment that allows them to be recognized and appreciated for qualities and values beyond the physical and attributes often emphasized and highlighted in other “dating” sites. The site is also committed to empowering its members to build their profiles to fully feature and present all of the good things they can bring to a loving, long-term relationship. LatinConexiones.com is a part of CEBCOR Corporation. About CEBCOR Corporation: The vision and mission to bring products and services to the marketplace that will empower Latinos and Caribbean’s to live better lives on a personal level, in their closest relationships, in their social circles or in their economic opportunities. Scan here to Register NOW!
Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
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Estrella TV Premieres Fourth Season of Rica Famosa Latina The highly anticipated and only Spanish language reality TV show of its kind, Premiered in September with more intrigue, more glamour and more drama Estrella TV Network, the largest privately held, minority-owned Spanish television network in the U.S., announces the premiere of its highly popular reality drama series Rica Famosa Latina. “Rica Famosa Latina” is a real life drama show that follows a group of successful women and the glamorous lives they lead. The returning cast is comprised of a diverse group of Latinas: Two Cubans, internationally renowned actress Niurka Marcos and Sissi Fleitas, model and YouTube celebrity; four Mexicans, Andrea Garcia, daughter of iconic actor Andres Garcia, Mayeli Rivera, wife of international regional Mexican superstar Lupillo Rivera, Luselba Mansour, successful millionaire and real estate mogul, and Victoria del Rosal, television presenter and actress; and one Argentine, Sandra Vidal.
Sofia Vergara And Avon Celebrate Launch Of So Very Sofia Fragrance Award winning actress Sofia Vergara and Avon celebrated the launch of So Very Sofia by Sofia Vergara, a vivacious new fragrance, in Los Angeles this past month. The fragrance, which just launched exclusively through Avon, captures Sofia's passion and confidence. The actress designed the scent to speak to today's strong, powerful, beautiful woman. So Very Sofia is a floral chypre fragrance and this warm and fruity scent encourages women to never be afraid to be their true selves. "I am so thrilled to launch this fragrance exclusively through Avon. The Avon Representatives are so inspiring—they are independent, they are confident and they are empowered. They are exactly the type of women I had in mind when creating this scent," shared Sofia.
Avon fragrances are available exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit www.avon.com. Sofia Vergara is an award nominated actress, comedian, producer, television host and model, Sofia Vergara has done it all. Best known for her role as Gloria Delgado-Pritchett on the show Modern Family, Vergara got her start co-hosting multiple shows on Spanish-language television network Univision.
In the early 2000s, she made the jump to English-language acting, starring in films like Meet the Browns and earning an ALMA award for her role in Madea Goes to Jail. Since then, she's gone on to become one of the most successful women in U.S. television, earning a So Very Sofia was inspired by a bold wom- star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2015. an: one who is her own muse and who en- Whether she's starring in a Broadway courages others to live life with passion. Both show or lending her voice to a beloved anfeminine and powerful, she's not afraid to imated character, Sofia always lives with flaunt her beauty, and is always true to herself. passion and loves without boundaries. "Sofia is a strong, beautiful woman—and we are Read more at: so excited to launch her fragrance, So Very So- www.LatinTimesMedia.com fia, exclusively through Avon. She truly embodies the Avon mission of empowering women and
BALL Watch CEO Jeffrey P. Hess has announced that BALL Watch USA has been selected to be the Official watch for the ReLaunch of the historic St. Petersburg-Habana Regatta, as well as watch sponsor and timing partner to The St. Petersburg Yacht Club. 10
she inspires all of us with her drive and creativity," says Meg Lerner, Vice President, North America Beauty and Fashion & Home for Avon. The Fragrance is Bold and feminine, the fragrance combines succulent fruits with tropical florals and fragrant herbs for an addictive scent.
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The regatta which started March 30, 1930 will once again start in downtown St. Petersburg, FL on February 28, 2017 and, after 284 nautical miles of competitive sailing, finish at the Hemingway Marina in Havana Cuba. The race has been certified by the Cuban government as a sporting event featuring a field of 70 to 100 sail boats in four classes from around the USA. The race began in the late 1920's but was last run in 1959 due to the US embargo on Cuba. About BALL Watch Company Since 1891, BALL Watch Company has been producing timepieces that comwww.latintimesmedia.com
ply with the most stringent criteria for precision, quality and reliability. As a pioneer of chronometry standards and with a rich past closely associated with the history of the American railroads and today, as well as all aspects of aviation and maritime, BALL Watch remains one of the most respected and well established watch brands in the United States. Today, more than ever, BALL Watch is continuing its journey and asserting its role as a key protagonist in the evolution of watchmaking history. For more information regarding BALL Watch Company and its products worldwide, please visit http:// www.ballwatch.com. Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
U.S. Latino News Bites
U.S. Small Business Administration and Milken Institute Partner to Increase Access to Capital for Underserved Communities
Initiative to increase minority lending launched in Baltimore, Los Angeles The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Milken Institute announced the Partnership for Lending in Underserved Markets (PLUM) Initiative, a groundbreaking collaboration to develop and test initiatives designed to more effectively provide capital to minority-owned businesses throughout the United States. Maria Contreras-Sweet, SBA Administrator and the voice of small business on the President’s Cabinet, said: “Increasing access to capital in underserved communities continues to be one of my highest priorities. Solving this longstanding and persistent challenge would open the door for new ideas, new visionary voices, and revolutionary business innovations from historically unexpected places. This new partnership with the Milken Institute brings together some of the brightest minds in this field with the local and national leaders and resources needed to create opportunity and transform the small business marketplace for the better.” Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Mayor of Baltimore said: “My Administration is committed to creating greater access to capital and business opportunities for Baltimore City’s small, minority, and women-owned businesses; and partnering with the Small Business Administration and Milken Institute to launch the PLUM initiative provides an opportunity to connect minority entrepreneurs and traditionally underrepresented business communities to programs that encourage their growth. We recognize that small businesses tend to hire locally and offer the greatest opportunity for inclusion. Creating resources that address capital access disparities is imperative to the growth of our local economy, which thrives when small and minority-owned businesses are successful.” Following the Great Recession, small business owners, especially those setting up shop in underserved markets, have faced a recurring problem of limited access to capital. Conventional small business credit is still only at 85 percent of its pre-recession level. Read more @ www.LatinTimesMedia.com
Statement of National Alliance for Hispanic Health on FDA Regulation of Menthol and Flavorings in Tobacco Products Alliance joins in call to remove flavored tobacco products from marketplace
Rockeymoore: New Census Poverty Numbers Show Need for Basic Economic Security for Kids of Color
Statement from Dr. Maya Rockeymoore, President and CEO VEMOX™ Launches of Center for Global Policy Solutions, on U.S. Census Bu- on Amazon Fire TV reau 2015 Income, Poverty and "The White House can truly cel- Health Insurance Coverage and ebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Supplemental Poverty Measure Austin Powers, President of Olympusat Telecom, a marthis week by directing the FDA to issue a proposed rule to remove all The Census data released are the ket leader in the distribution flavored tobacco products, includ- latest reminder that communi- of OTT and comprehensive ing menthol products, from the ties of color are still dispropor- CLOUD solutions, officially marketplace and protect the health tionately affected by poverty. announced at the Cablefax TV Innovation Summit, that of families and children," said Dr. Jane L. Delgado, President/CEO Especially alarming are the child VEMOX™ is now available of the National Alliance for His- poverty rates—Black: 33.6 per- on Amazon Fire TV devices. panic Health, the nation's leading cent; Hispanic: 28.9 percent; Hispanic health advocacy group. Asian: 12.6 percent; White: 12.1 "We are thrilled to offer VEThe Alliance's statement supports percent—and the realization MOX, the ultimate entertainefforts announced today by the Af- that they’re likely to increase if ment experience, to the Amarican American Tobacco Control America fails to adopt an inclu- zon Fire TV customers," said Leadership Council (AATCLC) to sive poverty agenda that spe- Powers. "The app's sleek and reverse action by the White House cifically considers those who fresh design plus the quality Office of Management and Budget have been excluded historically, of its content, makes it ide(OMB) that eliminated menthol while ensuring a basic level of al for the Hispanic family." and flavors text from a proposed economic security for everyone. VEMOX's, Olympusat's cost Food and Drug Administration (FDA) "deeming rule" before it An inclusive policy agenda efficient and reliable B2B was finalized implementing the would expand and create pro- carrier-grade OTT platform, Family Smoking Prevention and grams that help families most combines technology and Tobacco Act. The eliminated affected by economic discrimi- content, making it easier for FDA text presented overwhelm- nation, drawing on data to guide consumers to watch the proing evidence, supported by com- effective, evidence-based policy. gramming they love by offering an array of live channels ments it received on the proposed rule, that menthol, candy, and Critically, it would also rec- and thousands of movies and fruit-flavored tobacco products ognize the need to strengthen series On Demand in Spanattracted children and teens to to- Social Security as one of our ish. The app offers the user bacco use and deterred quitting. nation’s most effective anti-pov- access to highly-acclaimed erty programs, especially for movies and series, fan-favorFlavoring ingredients and additives children, with special signif- ite telenovelas, educational have been shown to attract children icance for children of color. shows for kids, popular muand teens to tobacco use and the Social Security benefits nearly sic videos, and captivating impact has helped created a tobacco 6.4 million children, which is documentaries from North, tipping point among Hispanic chil- double the figure commonly cit- Central and South America. dren and teens," said Dr. Delgado. ed. And, the number of Hispanic kids and kids of other ethnic- The On Demand content availWhile Hispanic adults are less ities who receive Social Secu- able on VEMOX comprises of likely than non-Hispanic whites rity is skyrocketing faster than fan-favorite Hispanic TV seto smoke, among middle school for either black or white kids. ries, such as Terapia de Parestudents Hispanics are now the Recognizing its structure, which jas, Derecho de Familia, Pabgroup most likely to be current can easily incorporate all chil- lo Escobar: El Patrón del Mal, tobacco users (10.6%) compared dren, and its role in prevent- El Encantador, Las Muñecas to non-Hispanic white (6.3%) and ing child poverty, Social Se- de la Mafia, Decisiones de non-Hispanic black (6.6%) stu- curity should be expanded to: Vida, and Alma de Barrio. The app also features highly-acdents and more likely than their Include a minimum claimed films including Espeers to be using two or more to- • bacco products. CDC data also child benefit to provide a mini- posa de Vacaciones, Agua y show that e-cigarettes are now the mum level of economic security Sal, Jirafas, Dulce de Leche most common tobacco products for kids living in poor household and Juan y Eva, as well as international documentaries. used among children and teens and ; Integrate a univeruse escalated from 1.5 to 16.0 per- • cent between 2011 and 2015 among sal “baby bond” trust pro- VEMOX is available for Ammiddle and high school students. gram that could provide every azon Fire TV and Fire TV "Rather than waiting years for kid with a financial asset that Stick customers at a price of another FDA action, it is crit- grows over time—to be used for $9.95 per month. Subscribical to protect the lives of chil- wealth-building purposes such as ers can also enjoy a 30-day dren and teens at risk today. buying a home, financing higher free trial upon subscription. education, or starting a business; The app is also available on Google Play for Android, Read more: the Apple Store for iOS. Read More: www.LatinTimesMedia.com. www.LatinTimesMedia.com This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
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Israel Lopez-Morillo Nominated for The Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders An Appetite for Green in Boston, MA This summer, Israel Lopez-Morillo, a sophomore at Belen Jesuit Preparatory of Miami was a Delegate of the Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders in Lowell, MA. The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country who aspire to be scientists and technologists, to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal. Israel Lopez-Morillo was nominated by the winner of the first Google Science Fair, Shree Bose - Academic Director of the National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists, to represent Florida based on his academic achievement, leadership potential and passion for science and technology. During the three-day Congress, Israel joined students from across the country and heard Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science Winners talk about leading scientific research; was given advice from deans of the world's top tech universities; was inspired by fellow teen science prodigies; and learned about cutting-edge advances and the future of science and technology. "This is a crucial time in America when we need more nimble-minded and creative scientists and technologists who are even better prepared for a future that is changing exponentially,” said Richard Rossi, Executive Director, National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists. “Focused, bright and determined students like Israel Lopez-Morillo are our future and he deserves all the mentoring and guidance we can give him.” The Academy offers free services and programs to students who have the desire to learn more about their future in science or technology. Some of the services and programs the Academy offers include online social networks through which future scientists and technologists can communicate; opportunities for students to be guided and mentored by tech and science leaders; and communications for parents and students on college acceptance and finances, skills acquisition, internships, career guidance and much more. Read more on www.LatinTimesMedia.com
Cards Drives EB-5 Investors to Chef-Driven Restaurants in Florida Chef-driven restaurants in Florida are increasingly turning to foreign capital to fund the expansion of their concepts. Chefs and restaurant operators are tapping foreign investors to invest $500,000 in exchange for U.S. residency under the EB-5 Investor Visa Program. Restaurants are highly popular with EB-5 investors because they create a significant number of jobs, the main requirement to obtain residency for the investors and their families, said Roger A. Bernstein, co-owner of American Life Investment LLC regional center. Mr. Bernstein is rebranding ALI as "EB-5 for Florida Regional Center" to expand its focus to include chef-driven restaurants and small- to mid-size projects across Florida. EB-5 for Florida Regional Center is currently raising capital for two successful and popular restaurant brands in South Florida: Tap 42 (http://www.tap42eb5.com/) and Meat Market Steakhouse (https://meatmarketeb5.com/) "There are many investors who prefer smaller projects that can be completed relatively fast," said Bernstein, who is a veteran immigration attorney in Miami. "Also, it is easier for them to understand how a chef-driven concept will create jobs, pay them interest on their loan, pay them back their investment and get their family the green card." Latin American investors are increasingly applying for EB-5 visas and investing in restaurants ran by experience operators as a means to obtain their green card. Since 2008, the number of EB-5 investors from Venezuela has jumped 93.6 %, from Mexico 85.5 % and from Brazil 82.3 %. Miami Beach-based Meat Market is an example of a chef-driven concept that has attracted those investors to help fund the opening of its Palm Beach restaurant in 2014. "In less than two years, investors are on their way to obtaining conditional residency, more than sufficient jobs have already been created and the investors are on track to have their capital returned by year five," said David Tornek, co-owner of Meat Market now expanding across Florida. EB-5 for Florida Regional Center is raising up to $10 million to bring Meat Market to Tampa, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and downtown Miami. More at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
CNET en Español Pays Tribute To The Most Influential Latinos In American Technology From Apple to Uber to Tesla, Fourth Annual Top 20 List Includes 18 New Executives and Record Number of Women from Silicon Valley and Beyond To help celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, CNET en Español, CNET's Spanish-language sister site, today pays tribute to the technology contributions of Latinos in America by announcing its annual list of the top 20 most influential Latinos in technology for 2016. The list, which includes 18 new executives as well as a record number of women (nine total), is made up of Latinos with a broad range of experience and skills that are leading teams in high-profile tech companies in the U.S. From Apple to LinkedIn to NASA, the list of senior executives is reflective of the accomplishments and impact of the Latino community on technology. "Latinos continue to play a growing and more influential role in the make-up of American society," said Gabriel Sama, managing editor of CNET en Español. "That growth and influence is aligned with the explosion of technology, and this list is designed to acknowledge the impact Latinos are making with the products and services that are shaping the way we live in today's highly connected and technical world. We congratulate this year's executives." Selected by the CNET en Español editorial staff, the list is comprised of professionals in STEM or creative fields that meet the following criteria: born in Spain or Latin America, or in the U.S. of Hispanic origin; working in the U.S. or at a company with operations in the country; and in senior positions and involved in the decision-making processes or play key creative roles in the technology space. Eddy Cue, Senior Vice President of Internet Software and Service at Apple, who's on the list for the second time, tells CNET en Español: "My parents wanted me to be more successful than they were. And I think that's a great attribute. I want that for my kids. So I owe them a great deal for that. And they taught me a lot about all the principles of hard work. Both my parents worked a lot of hours." "To be recognized a second time is an exceptional honor, not only for me personally, but also for my VRLab team," said Evelyn Miralles, Principal Engineer Innovator at the Virtual Reality Laboratory at NASA's Johnson Space Center, where she has worked on virtual reality for 24 years. "As a businesswoman with a passion for STEM advancement, it is an esteemed acknowledgment that helps to further my efforts." Miralles is on the list for the second consecutive year. Check out list online: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
U.S. Latino News Bites faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/ productview.xhtml?pid=PEP_2015_PEPSR6H&prodType=table
54.5% The percentage of the Hispanic population in the United States that lived in California, Florida and Texas as of July 1, 2015. Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates http://factfinder.census.gov/ bkmk/table/1.0/en/PEP/2015/ PEPASR6H?slice=hisp~hisp!year~est72015
Census Bureau Profile America Facts For Features: Hispanic Heritage Month 2016
Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates http://factfinder.census.gov/ bkmk/table/1.0/en/PEP/2015/ PEPASR6H?slice=hisp~hisp!year~est72015
al/2014/summarytables.html
63.4% The percentage of those of Hispanic or Latino origin in the United States who were of Mexican origin in 2015. Another 9.5 percent were Puerto 1.2 million The number of Hispanics add- Rican, 3.8 percent Salvadoran, 3.7 percent Cuban, 3.3 percent ed to the nation's population between July 1, 2014, and July Dominican and 2.4 percent 1, 2015. This number is nearly Guatemalan. The remainder were of some other Central half of the approximately 2.5 American, South American million people added to the nation's total population during or other Hispanic or Latino origin. this period.Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates Source: 2015 American Community Survey, Table B03001 http://factfinder.census.gov/ bkmk/table/1.0/en/PEP/2015/ http://factfinder.census. PEPASR6H?slice=hisp~hisp!- gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ ACS/15_1YR/B03001 year~est72015
In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, observed during the week that included Sept. 15 and Sept. 16. In 1989, Congress expanded the observance to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15-Oct. 15) of the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the 2.2% Caribbean. The percentage increase in the Hispanic population between Sept. 15 is the starting point for 2014 and 2015. the celebration because it is the Source: Vintage 2015 Populaanniversary of independence of tion Estimates five Latin American countries: http://factfinder.census.gov/ Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guate- bkmk/table/1.0/en/PEP/2015/ mala, Honduras and Nicaragua. PEPASR6H?slice=hisp~hisp!In addition, Mexico and Chile year~est72015 celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, 119 million respectively. The projected Hispanic population of the United States in Population 56.6 million 2060. According to this projecThe Hispanic population of the tion, the Hispanic population United States as of July 1, 2015, will constitute 28.6 percent of making people of Hispanic the nation's population by that origin the nation's largest ethnic date. Source: 2014 National or racial minority. Hispanics Population Projections, Table constituted 17.6 percent of the 10 www.census.gov/populanation's total population. tion/projections/data/nation-
15.2 million The Hispanic population of California. This is the largest Hispanic population of any state. Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates http://factfinder.census.gov/ bkmk/table/1.0/en/PEP/2015/ PEPASR6H?slice=hisp~hisp!year~est72015 4.9 million Los Angeles County had the largest Hispanic population of any county in 2015. Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates 49,000 Harris County in Texas had the largest numeric increase of Hispanics from 2014 to 2015. Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates http://factfinder.census.gov/ faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/ productview.xhtml?pid=PEP_2015_PEPSR6H&prodType=table Families and Children 16.2 million The number of Hispanic households in the United States in 2015. Source: Families and Living Arrangements, Households, Table H-3 www.census.gov/hhes/families/ data/households.html
States and Counties 10.7 million The estimated population for those of Hispanic origin in Texas as of July 1, 2015. Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates: http:// factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/ table/1.0/en/PEP/2015/PEPAS- 47.7% R6H/0400000US48?slice=his- The percentage of Hispanic p~hisp!year~est72015 households that were married-couple households in 9 2015. Among all households in The number of states with a the United States, 48.2 percent population of 1 million or more were married-couple houseHispanic residents in 2015 — holds. Source: Families and Arizona, California, Colorado, Living Arrangements, Table Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, H-3. www.census.gov/hhes/ New Mexico, New York and families/data/households.html Texas. Source: Vintage 2015 Population Estimates Read complete report at: http://factfinder.census.gov/ www.LatinTimesMedia.com
This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
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LATINA Style Inc. Announces the 2016 LATINA Style 50 Report The 50 Best Companies for Latinas to Work for in the U.S. LATINA Style Inc., the premier company addressing the needs of Latina professionals and business owners in the United States, proudly announces the LATINA Style 50 Report for 2016. Now in its 19th year, the annual report sets the standard for identifying corporations that are providing the best career opportunities for Latinas in the country. The LATINA Style 50 Report is the most respected evaluation of corporate America's career advancement opportunities for Latinas. Companies responding to LATINA Style's questionnaire are evaluated based on matters that LATINA Style magazine readers deemed as most important to them in the workplace. LATINA Style is proud to recognize companies that support programs that encourage training, mentorship, and promote Latinas within the company. The LATINA Style 50 report is a reflection of those programs that Latinas are looking for when seeking job opportunities. Among the principal areas of evaluation are: the number of Latina executives, Latina retention, mentoring programs, educational opportunities, employee benefits, job retraining, affinity groups, and Hispanic relations. Evaluations for the 2016 annual report are based on 2015 data. "Selecting the top 50 companies for Latinas to work for is a difficult task. Great efforts are taken to ensure that Latinas can truly find best places where to nurture their careers. Our goal is to provide the most accurate picture of what corporate America has to offer," says Robert E. Bard, president and CEO, LATINA Style, Inc. "This year, Marriott International, Inc. took the top spot. It is our pleasure to announce that this year Marriott International, Inc. has been selected as the company of the year for Latinas to work for in the United States." Marriott International, Inc., is a global leading lodging company with nearly 4,500 properties in 87 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of more than $14 billion in fiscal year 2015. Founded by J. Willard and Alice Marriott and guided by Marriott family leadership for nearly 90 years, the company is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA. "To be recognized as Company of the Year by LATINA Style for the second time is a
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great honor and reinforces that we're on the right track and making a difference for our associates and our guests," says Arne M. Sorenson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Marriott International, Inc. "In our increasingly connected and competitive world, we must draw from a broad set of skills and ideas and work together to perfect diversity and inclusion at Marriott." The annual awards ceremony honoring the LATINA Style 50 companies will take place on February 9, 2017 during LATINA Style's Diversity Leaders and Awards Conference in Washington, D.C. For more information regarding the LATINA Style 50, please visit www.latinastyle.com. 2016 LATINA Style Top 50 Companies 1. Marriott International, Inc. 2. Comcast NBCUniversal 3. AT&T 4. Accenture 5. Johnson & Johnson 6. Prudential Financial 7. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. 8. General Motors Company 9. United Technologies Corporation 10. Intel Corporation 11. PepsiCo 12. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles 13. Wells Fargo & Company 14. New York Life Insurance Company 15. Sodexo, Inc. 16. Bank of America 17. Colgate-Palmolive 18. Wyndham Worldwide 19. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey 20. Nationwide 21. Kaiser Permanente 22. IBM Corporation 23. Morgan Stanley 24. JPMorgan Chase & Co 25. Comerica Bank 26. Merck & Co., Inc. 27. Xerox Corporation 28. Target 29. Hilton Worldwide 30. Aflac 31. Hyatt Hotels Corporation 32. Citi 33. MetLife 34. Southwest Airlines 35. State Farm 36. JC Penney 37. Aetna 38. USAA 39. Rackspace Hosting 40. Boston Scientific Corporation 41. Ford Motor Company 42. CVS Health 43. Los Alamos National Laboratory 44. TIAA 45. Navy Exchange Service Company 46. Freddie Mac 47. Pacific Gas & Electric Company 48. Consolidated Edison, Inc. 49. Northern Trust 50. The Exchange (Army and Air Force Exchange Service)
What does an undocumented immigrant look like? What price must she pay to remain in the United States? Arce shows us the true cost of achieving her American dream—from the perspective of a woman who had to scale unseen and unimaginable walls to get there—in new memoir this fall. "There are so many moments in Julissa's journey that numbed my body and transported me fully into her harrowing experience. Her story broke my heart and then made it jump for joy.” -America Ferrera, actor, producer My (Underground) American Dream: My True Story as an Undocumented Immigrant Who Became a Wall Street Executive tells a gripping story set in the heady days of the most astronomical stock-market rise in Wall Street history—when Julissa Arce, a rare Hispanic woman in a sea of suits and ties, landed one of the most coveted jobs as an analyst at Goldman Sachs. She continued to climb the corporate ladder— riding a series of promotions to become a Vice President, complete with a six-figure salary. But Arce wasn’t just a young woman breaking through ceilings in a cutthroat male-dominated field. She was also an undocumented immigrant from Mexico, who lived in the shadows after discovering the shocking truth of her immigration status when she was fourteen years old. The level of professional and financial success that Arce achieved was the very definition of the American dream. But in this brave new memoir, Arce digs deep to reveal the physical, financial, and emotional costs of the stunning secret that she, like many other high-achieving, successful individuals in the United States, had been forced to keep not only from her bosses, but even from her closest friends. In this surprising, at times heart-wrenching, but always inspirational personal story of struggle, grief, and ultimate redemption, Arce takes readers deep into the little-understood world of undocumented immigrants in the United States today— Continue reading this great story at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
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Latina News
Are You Dense Inc. Launches Hispanic/Latina Breast Health Program Are You Dense, Inc., global nonprofit breast health organization, in collaboration with Madre Latina Inc., announces educational breast health resources in Spanish named E.M.P.O.W.E.R.E.D. - Early Matters: Providing Opportunities With Educational Resources for Early Detection. Along with educational literature (http://bit.ly/2c3WJ0Z), a video, with English Captions, urging women to be smart about breast cancer screening options, including knowledge of their breast density for optimum breast health, is featured. A survivor's poignant story, a call to breast health action from a Latina leader and a physician, frame the compelling short video. Video - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9oiJbKVdLY
Avon Foundation For Women Funds Comprehensive Breast Cancer Study Uncovering Prevalence And Mortality Among U.S. Hispanics And Hispanic Subgroups Today, at the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade's biennial Breast Cancer Forum, healthcare providers, breast cancer survivors, and leading care advocates from across the nation gathered for the release of the new Avon Foundation funded study: Breast Cancer Among Hispanic Subgroups in the U.S., which was conducted by Sinai Urban Health Institute.
The study is the first and most comprehensive study of its kind to explore breast cancer prevalence and mortality rates among U.S. Hispanics and Hispanic subgroups. The study revealed that breast cancer mortality rates differ for Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Central and South Yoellie Iglesias, director of Madre Latina American women with breast cancer in the U.S. Inc., reports, "The video is empowering, giving women the ability to be ambassa- Puerto Rican women (19.04 per 100,000 womdors of our breast health." Obstetrician/ en) and Mexican women (18.78) have the gynecologist Claudia Grogean, M.D., concurs, "This video is a welcomed educa- highest breast cancer mortality rates of all Histional resource for my Hispanic and Lati- panic women with breast cancer in the U.S. na patients and women across the globe." Central and South American women in the U.S. Nancy M. Cappello, Ph.D., founder and direc- were found to be significantly less likely to die tor of nonprofits, Are You Dense, Inc. (http:// from breast cancer than other Hispanic subwww.AreYouDense.org) and Are You Dense groups observed (10.15 per 100,000 women). Advocacy, Inc., (http://www.AreYouDenseAdvocacy.org) also a video contributor, ex- "Understanding where the greatest needs are plains that dense breast tissue hides cancer- in improving the lives of women with breast ous tumors on mammogram, making cancer difficult to detect until much further along. cancer is a fundamental first step to bringing "Our mission is clear, first, ensuring that no about change in how this disease is addressed, woman suffers the tragedy of a preventable particularly in the Hispanic community," said late-stage diagnosis and second, eliminating Cheryl Heinonen, President of the Avon Founbarriers to adjunct screening, such as ultra- dation for Women. "As the company for women, sound and MRI. We are especially grateful Avon is committed to taking actions that matto the Connecticut Community Foundation ter most to women and that is why the Avon for funding this targeted outreach effort." Foundation is passionate about funding studies American Cancer Society reports (http://bit. like this. We want to identify where the disparly/2c3UpHu) breast cancer as the leading ities lie so we can effectively shape and support cause of cancer deaths in Hispanic/Latina programs that will have the greatest impact." women as they are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced disease compared to "What this research has uncovered has the powhite non-Hispanic population. A prelim- tential to greatly improve individualization of inary study by Beth A. Jones, Ph.D., MPH care for Hispanic women with breast cancer," director, Smilow Screening & Prevention said Bijou R. Hunt of the Sinai Urban Health Program, assistant director Diversity/Health Institute. "When healthcare providers begin to Equity, Yale Cancer Center and a collabora- view the highly diverse population of Hispanic tor on the EMPOWERED project, furthered these findings in Connecticut by examining women as many unique groups – taking into acmammography screening and understand- count the ethnic identities, beliefs and cultures ing of dense breast tissue in this popula- that could impact how they experience this tion. "I am gratified that our research mo- disease – providers can better tailor their intertivated the launching of the EMPOWERED ventions and be even more culturally sensitive." program for this population," adds Jones. Read more at www.LatinTimesMedia.com Read more at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
Female Hispanic-Owned Business Thrives, Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage MonthSavvy Travelers, a leader in designer beauty wipes, celebrates their success for National Hispanic Heritage Month National Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long observation that traces its roots to President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968. While it started out as a week-long observation, it was expanded to a month in 1989. The month is a time of celebration of the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, and the Spanish-speaking nations in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are 3.3 million Hispanic-owned businesses around the country, with $78.7 million in yearly sales being attributed to those owned by women (compared to $359 million in sales for male-owned Hispanic businesses). While it may come with a side of challenges, there are Hispanic women who are blazing trails and leaving a record of business success. Two of those women are Tina Aldatz and Margarita Floris, the co-owners of Savvy Travelers, a company that specializes in designer beauty wipes. “We are thrilled to be a part of the Hispanic business community,” explains expert traveler Tina Aldatz, chief executive officer of travel wellness company Savvy Travelers. “We have not only blazed a trail, but we are making history with the success that we are having. People have embraced our products, which is the ultimate sign of success in business.” The company Savvy Travelers is a certified Hispanic-owned business through the Women/Minority Business Enterprise. Continue reading this great article at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
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George Salinas
Jaime Aymerich
Carolina Aymerich
Crossover Entertainment Transcends Borders by Repackaging Latino/Hispanic Television Content for American Programming
By Victor A. Padilla
Crossover Entertainment, under the guidance of CEO George Salinas, President Jaime Aymerich and account executive Carolina Aymerich, carefully studies and dissects each of the selected programs for repackaging. Latin Times: Tell us about Crossover Entertainment? Jaime: What we do is bring films and television shows into the American Film Market and introduce the work of Latin writers and creators. Carolina: I work closely with Jaime (My Husband) and George, looking through all the content and titles that come to us from the Latino market and how we can use them in the American Film Market. George: Crossover provides a new formats of Latino shows, movies that are becoming a very popular and more people are scrambling to do more in the Latin Market and we bring supply to the demand and we create the opportunities to produce Television Shows and Films for this purpose.
only main studio where we can create these opportunities. Working on doing features, establishing and creating really strong writers, and creators through crossover. Jaime: We are working hard to get the best stories on the Latin side, from a variety of Latin writers, we also are looking at scripts that are unique and surprise you. For Example, we did our first movie “How to be a Latin Lover” with Salma Hayek, and we are creating great alliances through what crossover is doing. Next Month we are working on a film about Human Trafficking. Carolina: I am very happy to be a part of what we are doing, knowing that we are fulfilling our goals because everything that you want you must work to fulfill it. We have been successful and are still working hard to continue achieving these goals within the American MarLatin Times: Tell us about any fu- ket. ture plans and projects: George: To continue creating and Latin Times: What is your favorite Latselling great programming for Lati- in Food and do you love Cuban Sandnos, we are literally becoming the wiches?
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Carolina: I love the Tostones and piraguas, definitely Cuban Sandwiches. George: I love authentic Latin food all types, mofongo with shrimp, and Cuban Sandwiches. Jaime: I love Tacos to tell you the truth and love going to Versailles in Miami and eat the carne asada and of course Cuban Sandwiches. Latin Times: What advice can you give to up and coming Latino actors? Jaime: Basically it’s about being persistent, being competent, learning and being on top of the game and not taking NO for an answer, don’t wait go for it. Carolina: Being persistent, Conquer and make it happen no matter what. George: Learn your business and what you get yourself into, it’s very important. Let your talent speak for itself. Scan to Read complete interview!
Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
Latin Times EXCLUSIVE Interview with Actress Ivonne Coll, one of the first Puerto Rican actresses to cross over from the Latin world to Hollywood. Latin Times: Ivonne, please tell us about your family and where you come from? Ivonne: First I want to say “Saludos para todo, es mi gente. I am Puerto Rican and my mother was Rosita Mendoza was a very famous award winning hair stylist and Platform Artist back in the 60’s and 70’s. She was a teacher to new hairstylists and came out of the mountains of Calle and at age 9 she got on a bus to the next town over Caguas and gets off the bus to get Café in a little Caféteen y un senor le dice, “Que hace una nina linda esta hora de la mananna por aqui?” My mother said “Buscando trabajo, Senor” Y el senor le pregunta, “Usted sabes cuidad ninos?” Mi mama no quieria nada eso” pero dijo “Si” The man and his wife were venezulano and owned a beauty salon where my mother began working and learning about being a Hairstylist at the age of 12. My father didn’t raise us, my parents got divorced when I was two years old. So I didn’t see him after that. We stayed in Puerto Rico and he went to New York. He was of Catagana y Espanol descent. In 1988, I had come back home from filming up in New York, and I ran into my father at Las Plaza Americas in Puerto Rico. We established our relationship and I was able to meet my brothers who are all wonderful. Latin Times: Tell us about Jane the Virgin? Ivonne: I am currently working on Jane the Virgin in its third season where I play Jane’s grandmother which I am proud to be a part of it. I am also training with the Director on Jane, shadowing her to learn because I want to learn producing. Latin Times: What is your fa-
vorite Latin Food and how do you like your Cuban Sandwich? Ivonne: I like Cuban Sandwiches, but what I love is Asopado with some mofongito a dentro. MMMM. Latin Times: Any upcoming projects your working on? Ivonne: I am producing a short film where I am also acting in. This film is about an un documented immigrant who contributed to society woman which is showing the other face of the coin where I am not playing an abuela. I am going to put it in the film festivals. It’s a 10 minute short, so let’s see what happens Latin Times: You love Puerto Rico, tell us about your Puerto Rico? Ivonne: I go to Puerto Rico to see my sister and take care of my mother’s house and fix a lot of things, so I am able to contribute work so that someone can work. I was going to retire before Jane the Virgin but, here I am. Puerto Ricans are reinventing themselves and there is a new wave of Some young farmers that are growing food and selling it at the farmer’s market. Another young group that invented growing food without water through compose. One group invented a way to get electricity to everyone and it would only cost the government eight cents a day to do it. The Puerto Ricans that are staying, struggling, despite the conditions they are patriots of the Island. Puerto Ricans must reinvest in Puerto Rico it should be an obligation. Latin Times: Who in your life has been your hero and inspiration? Ivonne: My mother, I go no further, my hero, my inspiration, and it’s very hard now that she is gone, because I have to remind myself she is not here, but she is my devotion and my Puerto Rico an incredible race of people. Hasta el Aguacate. This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
Latin Times: What inspired you to become an Actress
“I was cast in the God father 2 at age twenty-two, a singer named Yolanda from Cuba. When Francis Coppola came to Puerto Rico to find places for filming. One day I went on location and Al Pacino was there. I had never seen Pacino in my life and they were doing the scene where Michael gives Fredo a Sicilian Kiss. When I saw that scene I said to myself, “I want to be an actor.” It inspired me because it was an extraordinary scene. I saw Al Pacino later on at the Actor’s studio and he remembered me from the Cuban Scenes in God Father 2 and he said, “Well you’re in the right place if you’re here to be an actress.” Read more at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
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Exclusive Interview
Michael Thornberry By Victor A. Padilla
Latin Times: Michael, please tell us about your family and where you come from? Michael Thornberry: I was born in Conroe, Texas to Jonathan and Vickie Thornberry. I have two older sisters, Rachel and Julie and a younger brother David. We grew up in a rural setting on lots of land in East Texas. We had no real neighbors so we spent lots of time with each other, playing, fighting, working etc. My brother and I had a boxing ring in the top of our barn where we spent a great deal of time fighting each other and any other kids we could get to come train with us. We also had lots of animals to take care of. Cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, cats, rabbits, donkeys, you name it, we had it! We did a lot of hunting and fishing and loved every minute of it. It was the only life we knew. My grandmother and Grandfather lived not far away and on the weekends we would “work cattle” together and eat Sunday dinner (which is Texan for lunch) together. We had a large extended family and we loved that time together. Latin Times: Tell us about some of the work you produced and worked in the past? Michael Thornberry: I began working in theatre in College, although I had some previous experience in the theatre throughout gradeschool. When I was boxing professionally after attending Texas A&M University, my manager got an audition in a movie for me playing the role of Ingomar Johannsen in Ali: King of the World, starring Terrance Howard. I was a bit burned out on boxing, after competing my entire life, so I moved to New York City and began attending Film School and studying acting. I produced and acted in several films there and after a couple of years in NYC, I moved to Los Angeles and continued to pursue acting, writing and producing. Latin Times: You were a boxer, tell us about that experience Michael Thornberry: Well, my father got me into boxing when I was young. I remember having gloves on from a very early age.. I had my first REAL fight in the ring with judges and referees when I was eight years old. I was a big kid so I had to travel a
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lot to find kids in my weight division to compete. Most of the time I would compete with older kids that weighed the same as me to get experience. I remember crying after my first fight because my opponent did a lot of grabbing and holding and I was very discouraged but my dad encouraged me to continue and improve. I had over a hundred amateur bouts, competed in the Olympic Trials, many National tournaments, was the Texas State Golden Gloves Champion as a light heavyweight, competed in the Olympic trials and after graduating from Texas A&M University, I began competing professionally. When I retired from boxing I was undefeated, 10 wins, No Losses, 8 KO’s (knockouts). Latin Times: Are there any new projects you are involved in currently tell us about them? Michael Thornberry: Absolutely, I am currently producing and writing a feature film that is in pre-production and I am have seven films on a slate with our new Film Company Catori Film. Life is good and I have been very busy putting these projects together. Latin Times: What is your favorite Latin Food and how do you like Cuban Sandwiches? Michael Thornberry: My favorite Latin food is Enchildas Verdes and Cuban Black Beans and Rice.. I do like Cuban Sandwiches but rarely have an opportunity to enjoy them. I need to learn to make them! Latin Times: What advice can you give up and coming actors? Michael Thornberry: I would encourage up and coming actors to treat their craft as they would any other skilled profession. I think it is important to stay in an acting class and be around other actors who are working and/or seeking work and creating their own opportunities. Being around positive/ proactive people is essential in anything you do, especially as an actor. It is your job to make your dream a reality. Seek advice only from people you admire because there are plenty of people who will be quick to give you negative advice if you let them. Stay positive, Stay focused. Visit: www.LatinTimesMedia.com to read more!
Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
Exclusive Interview
Roberto Escobar By Victor A. Padilla
Latin Times: Roberto, please tell us about your family and where you come from? Roberto Escobar: I was originally born in Cuba, then we left Cuba when I was three years old, we came to Florida but my Father due to the language barrier it was easier to move to Puerto Rico until I was fourteen years old. Then we came back to Miami. Latin Times: Tell us about the new Telemundo TV series “Silvana Sin Lana” your acting in? Roberto Escobar: “Silvana Sin Lana” Is Telemundo’s number one comedy show right now, very fresh, funny, and has something for everyone, all ages. I play Antonio José Villaseñor which is a rich man who made some bad deals and he winds up selling everything, his house, all the property without telling the family. The Family goes from well off to learning how to make ends meet and when he returns they aren’t very happy with him. Very Interesting, comes on 8 eastern time, 7 central time Telemundo. Latin Times: You have done over 40 films and shows in your career, tell us about an experience you had in one of your films that stick in your memory, Funny, etc., Roberto Escobar: There is so many, every show has one, it can be when you do comedy or even in Serious films. A lot of the places I have been shooting a film, I remember we were filming a film in the desierto in Columbia, way over hundred degrees and I had La Ultimo Coca-Cola de desierto and believe me I had the last one. I hid it and learned from that experience that if you have it, drink it. It’s been a very nice career for me and will keep on till I’m a hundred.
“Ask yourself, why are you doing this? Do you want to do it for the fame or tell stories and create characters? Fame isn’t everything, if it is to tell stories and create characters then fame will come, the opportunities will come, but you have to study. You will be learning all the time. Acting is easy, but becoming the character, involved in the role, study every aspect of acting and filming, and listening in what others tell you. Never stop Studying, I never had anybody to take me under their wings, so I made mistakes and learned from them. Then I went to acting school and learned under a great teacher Teresa Maria Rojas who inspired many writers and actors.”
Latin Times: Are there any new projects you are involved in currently? Roberto Escobar: I just got done filming “Perseguida” In Columbia. I play a Psychiatrist that is treating a patient that thinks they are being followed constantly, an action thriller that is turning out quite well. Previously I was filming “11 Degrees of Guilt” About a High School reunion years after they graduated and there is a murder that happens during the reunion and everyone is a suspect. My upcoming Projects are Sandera about Human Trafficking, where woman are forced onto prostitution, then I will be filming “Crocodylus” playing Police Chief “McAvoy” and it’s about a huge prehistoric type animal that is released in the swamps. I like to play a variety of different character and in different roles, being diverse. Latin Times: What is your favorite Latin Food and how do you like Cuban Sandwiches? Roberto Escobar: Cuban Sandwiches? OHHH I sure do, Please, c’mon. I love authentic Cuban Food, black Beans and rice, to stones, Platoons Maduro’s, Vaca Frita. Sometimes I love a Cuban Sandwich for a Midnight snack. Latin Times: Who in your life has been your hero and inspiration? Roberto Escobar: My Father, he had to come out of Cuban, leaving everything behind, and raised a family, he opened a business in Puerto Rico. When we moved to Miami, despite the language barrier he put us through school, he raised us with good morals, he was a wise man, he and was our rock. My mom of course who is the nicest person you can meet.
This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
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Exclusive Interview
Dawn Noel By Victor A. Padilla
Latin Times: What inspired you to become an Actress/Producer? Dawn Noel: Acting, dancing, producing and performing are gifts from God. I knew since I was three years old exactly what I was meant to do. I am so grateful to have a purpose in life where I get to express myself and change people’s lives.
so grow some thick skin. Always study your craft with passion. Latin Times: Who in your life has been your hero and inspiration? Dawn Noel: I would have to say my best friend April Magen, who I consider a sister. She also was a dancer and actor who I looked up to as a child, but has given me the best advice in life and has always been there for me since I was 9 years old. She continues to challenge herself in life and always takes risks. One of the bravest women I know.
Latin Times: What advice can you give up and coming Latino actors? Dawn Noel: I always tell people to follow their dreams. You are put on this planet with a purpose. Of course it takes hard work, discipline and determination. There’s a lot of rejection out there, Read complete interview @ www.LatinTimesMedia.com 20 Latin Times Magazine www.latintimesmedia.com Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
Exclusive Interview
Clifton Collins, Jr
las estrellas
By Joile Gonzalez-Padilla
An acting chameleon, Clifton Collins Jr. can easily lose himself in the life of his film and television characters, with memorable roles in blockbuster projects including TRAFFIC, CAPOTE, ONE EIGHT SEVEN and PACIFIC RIM. Collins is seemingly everywhere and then some right now with his upcoming starring role as "Lawrence" opposite Anthony Hopkins in HBO's highly anticipated science fiction drama series "Westworld," (premiering October 2, 2016 on HBO), inspired by Michael Crichton's 1973 feature film of the same name. The show takes place in a massive real-world "theme park" run by Anthony Hopkins, which allows humans to enter the world of the Wild West and interact with its humanoid inhabitants. Official "Westworld" trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtcIzrvXvoU Visit www.LatinTimesMedia.com for complete interview
This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
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ical Dictionary © as “a constellation of emotions including a sense of isolation, rejection and alienation which is experienced by a person or group when transplanted from a familiar to an unfamiliar culture—e.g., from one country to another; disorientation and confusion when visiting or relocating to [a] culture different from one’s own”. Reverse Culture Shock (RCS) is when you experience these emotions returning to your passport country after being on assignment that is over a long period of time.[1]
When Missionaries Come Home By Steve Concepcion
We all hear the inspiring stories of brave men and women who give up possessions, homes, careers, and the comfort of the United States to move to an underdeveloped country. They go to serve the poor, the marginalized and the disenfranchised. Missionaries sacrifice much, and sometimes all, to spread the Gospel of Jesus; but what happens when the mission is over? When these courageous men and women come back to what was once called their “home”, do they acclimate back into their own culture with ease? Culture Shock is defined by Segen’s Med-
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Studies show that most missionaries return home and find that through it all looks very familiar, nothing is quite right; but they are not alone in their experience of RCS. The US State Department, the US Military, Multi-national corporations and the United Nations all struggle with this issue. The effects of RCS impact their staff and employees that work outside their home country and return home to experience RCS at every age. These organizations experience high levels of attrition from their repatriated personnel. As a result, these large organizations have dedicated significant resources to mitigate the effects of RCS in forms of pre-deployment training, pre-return and post return debriefing, free access to professional mental health counselors when needed at home, mentor/life coaching programs, and the like. The reality of RCS is that across all nationalities, gender, generation and religion, no one is immune.
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My wife and I with our two young girls moved to the mountains of southeast Haiti for an agriculture-based mission. After three years we had begun to see substantial benefits and successes of all our hard work. We focused our efforts on agriculture per the community’s request. Some of our programs included cooking classes, farming techniques, scholarships for children in the local schools, we had brought the local churches (Protestant and Catholic) together to begin cooperating in the mission of community development which included bible distribution to churches that never had the book in their own language. We were making some amazing in-roads. Read more online at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
Exclusive Interview
Rabbi Johnathon Cahn by Victor A. Padilla
Latin Times: Tell us about yourself and where you come from? Rabbi Cahn: I am Jewish, grew up going to Hebrew School, I then became an Atheist and I started researching until I picked up a book thinking it was a UFO book called “The Late Great Planet Earth” by Hal Lindsay and it was all about the end times, prophecies about the end times. It began to change my whole outlook on life and then I made a deal with the Lord for him to give me a long life that would end up Jew and serve him when I was old. At that time, I had a rock band at that time doing whatever rock band teenagers do when I was involved in two car accidents, the second one I was at a train track at night and I had pulled up and noticed some lights were coming and I didn’t realize I was right in the train’s path. I tried backing up but there were cars behind me and then the train plowed into my Pinto, it went up in the air like aluminum foil and all I could do is cry out to God. It was a miracle that I walked away from the accident with no injuries. I then asked God if I could renegotiate and if he could give me till my 20th birthday I would completely give my life over to him. When I turned 20, I went up a mountain, fell on a rock, and gave my life to God. Latin Times: You just published the “Book of Mysteries” tell us about it? Rabbi Cahn: The Book of Mysteries is the revealing and opening up of literally hundreds of mysteries, mysteries about God, ages, church, Israel, end time, hidden writings of ancient Rabbis, you the reader to our life, so many mysteries. The Book of Mysteries is meant to change your life, it’s about a man who meets a teacher, who takes him in a journey, teaching him to apply these mysteries, over a year’s time. Latin Times: Do you believe that what is lacking in the Church today is the Hebrew Roots? Rabbi: Absolutely, when the Church started, the Church had begun in Israel and through the separation the Church lost the roots that is part of its heritage. Israel was missing the Messiah so each has the part that the other one is missing. Jewish people are returning to Israel and coming to Messiah Yeshua, the church is bringing back the roots of Israel. Years ago having a Shofar in the church was unheard of and now the Church is bringing back its roots and this is part of the Mysteries of the end times.
“What I am praying and wanting is that this book changes lives and helps them to make a spiritual Aliyah which means a return to Israel and find their Destiny. For two thousand years God hid in the Masada Desert in Ancient Israel was a scripture and it was the scripture about the valley of the dry bones and is mentioned in the Book of Mysteries.”
Latin Times: What is your opinion about the descendants of Sephardic Jews and the key role they play in the return of Messiah? Rabbi Cahn: At our congregation Beth Israel we have lots of Latin people and when I minister around the world and Latin American countries, it is the amazing how they have such a huge interest and connection with their Jewish roots. One out of three Latins are Sephardic Jews and one of the things that occurred was when the Sephardic Jews were expelled from Spain was on Tish’a B'Av the ninth of av and in the same Harbor were three ships, the Nina, the Pinto, and The Maria. Even in America there is an ancient root all the way back to Spain and Israel.
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The National Pork Board Unveils ÂĄSabrosos Momentos! to Celebrate Any Moment - Big Or Small - With Pork This Holiday Season
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Even though the big holidays usually get the spotlight, there are many everyday moments big or small worth celebrating throughout the fall and winter months. This is why the National Pork Board (NPB) today launched the "Sabrosos Momentos" campaign aimed at celebrating those joyous every day, and sometimes humorous, moments of the season. To bring these moments to life, the NPB has partnered with three of the most recognizable social media celebrities and digital talents in the country today: LeJuan James, Los Pichy Boys and David Lopez.
Hispanics lead the way when it comes to celebrating holiday traditions – and pork is at the center of those celebrations. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the NPB confirms that food and tradition are a strong part of Hispanic culture. Hispanics are more enthusiastic about holiday traditions than the general population, with 62 percent citing they enjoy making traditional recipes during the holidays. Creativity in blending cultures also plays a part, with 52 percent saying that their favorite part of Thanksgiving is combining American and Latino foods and recipes.
The celebrity influencers will capture their own pork-centric "Sabrosos Momentos" with a comical and unique Latino twist. The first video by the Cuban duo "Los Pichy Boys" will zero in on the cast of characters that make up a typical Latino family at any get-together. In November, LeJuan James will release a video that centers on how he welcomes unexpected guests; and in December, David Lopez's video will highlight a humorous interpretation of how Latinos combine new and old traditions. In addition, Angelica Vale, renowned Mexican actress, comedian, singer and pork lover, will kick off the campaign this week with a media event in Miami where she will share her own "Sabrosos Momentos."
"Pork is a staple at every Latino household, whether it is a daily meal for your family or at a celebration," said Jose de Jesus, director of multicultural marketing at the National Pork Board. "That is why in addition to the humorous and engaging videos, we will unveil delicious, easy-to-make pork recipe ideas and quick how-to recipe videos to help consumers impress family and friends anytime throughout the fall and winter months."
FOR LATINOS, PORK IS KING DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Check out www.LatinTimesMedia.com for featured recipes
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Latin Times Magazine
Study shows that Hispanics lead the way when it comes to celebrating holiday traditions; blending American and Latino flavors is their favorite part
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Celebrate all "Sabrosos Momentos" this season with delicious and easy-to-make pork recipes from PorkTeInspira. com, which also includes hyperlapse how-to recipe videos that will keep you in a festive mood all season long.
Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
cafe y cultura
Costumbres Navideñas! In our “native lands” there were many customs taught to us by our parents, and by our parents’ parents, each associated with enjoying time with family and friends as we celebrate the holidays! These are the warmest times of the year, simply because they are filled with a certain magic. Chances are, if you put a bunch of Latinos together in a house, yard, club or hall and throw on some of our great Latin music, you’re going to have one heck of a party! Our fiestas are beyond comparison – far from boring or mundane. Even on regular occasions you still find plenty of food, drink, music and dancing. But during “Las Navidades” we go ALL OUT! Preparing lots of delicious traditional dishes, decorating the house with all your treasured Christmas decorations and humming those great canciones in preparation of our next fiesta. Hispanos have many similarities…not only our shared language, but also our customs, look, styles, beliefs and traditions. Not all Latinos are celebrating the birth of Jesus during Christmas, but many Christians and Messianic Jews (which our family practices) from around the world do. -Jolie La Isla Del Encanto! El Jorgorio está, El Jorgorio está, bien por la maceta. Vamos a bailar, aja! WEPA! WEPA! WEPA! Las Parrandas ¡Ya vienen las Navidades! That’s an expression that is clearly etched in my fondest memories of my boricua upbringing. As a child, I remember visiting El Borinquen during Las Navidades. It seemed like just about every year my parents would
visit mis abuelitos in Orocovis for the Holidays. Legen has it (according to my abuelito) Puerto Rican Christmas’ are rumored to be among the longest celebrated in Latin America! They actually started celebrating Las Navidades in late October and often celebrated up until Passover and further! Supposedly on the night of Passover, they would go so far as to back up the clock so that they could have more time to continue El Jorgorio. This was often called La Media Raja or La Napa. I still remember the sound of las parrandas, and the chiki que chiki of the guiro. My favorite part of these parrandas was the way they started” A group of us would gather in the batey (front lawn) of someone’s home in the middle of the night, and all you could hear was the combined whispers, the children’s giggles and the loud: Shhhhhhh!”. Then, all of a sudden the music would fill the air with its beats until our friends would wake up, run for the door… still in their pajamas, the lady of the house often wearing rollers. Since it was considered a huge honor to have a parranda at your home, the hosts would immediately prepare a warm meal for the parranderos. Afterward, it was common for the current hosts to become guests at other homes that would be visited that night. Home-made Ron Pitorro (Ron Caña) lent that extra spe-
cial feeling to the evening, especially when accompanied by a group of friends/family, a good cuatro termpao, a guiro, a set of maracas, a cow bell, some clapping hands, some pretty good singers, (you get the picture). The aguinaldos made everyone want to dance, and it seemed this went on hasta el amanecer. My tio Sico entertained everyone with his trovas y bombas, sweet decimas of inspirational frenzies. Yeah…those were the days! The jorgorio would go on all night and into the morning.
them with yerba Santa Maria. They would then take these boxes and place them under their beds. The next morning the Three Kings would have come and delivered presents in exchange for the yerba Santa Maria. The yerva was to refuel the camels for their long vayage back to the orient. The fiestas navidenas would continue..the singing, eating, dancing to the octavas and octavitas, for many more weeks to come. Meanwhile, the rocio del aurora would mark another year of prosLa Comida! perity and home in the land It was impossible to ignore the that our indigenous ancestors aroma of the Arroz con Gan- call Borinquen. La tierra del dules, the Morcillas and the gran creador…. Guineitos en Escabeche. The freshly made pastels, mmmm “Navidad” Colombian Style! boiling in a big black pot, And By William Bolivar the desserts! Arroz con Dulce, Majarete, Flan y Budin. The There is something absoluteladies would all gather in the ly magical about Christmas, kitchen, talking about losing particularly if you come from weight in the coming year, all a Latin Country for our culthe while generously consum- ture is unique in celebrating ing un poquito de todo! Una the holiday season. Piña Colada, Coquio, a Bacardi n’Coke, or ¡dame un “chot” de Typically, we combine prayRon..It’s Noche Buena! ing with food and dance. Very appropriate! We all have Dia De Los Reyes many reasons to celebrate, The Three Kings Day (Dia de los the birth of Christ, the good Reyes) was without a doubt, my times and the bad times, for favorite day. (Come to this of they make us stronger. it, it was a favorite for every kid in the barrio.) The night before Read more online at: this special and often believed www.LatinTimesMedia.com as the most sacred of all the fiestas navideñas, the muchacheria would gather boxes and fill
This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
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has programmers all over the world whose business is to construct complex sites. The overall project was two years before our “soft launch” a few months ago.
One on One with the Founder and Creator of America's most popular new relationship website - for Latinos and Latinos all over the world! Latin Times Media: How and why decided to create LatinConexiones.com Hig Rodriguez-Dillinger: The need was actually defined by the communities that LatinConexiones is designed to serve. I have traveled extensively throughout the United States, Caribbean and Central & South America. So, I have had great opportunity to test many of the ideas that form the mission of CEBCOR Corporation to serve the Latin, Hispanic and Caribbean communities. During the many conversations I heard so many comments that there really isn’t a relationship site that serves those communities properly. There have been some sites available but the focus of those sites is almost strictly on the physical attributes, sexiness or weekend adventures. As a result most people have been completely turned off by anything that resembles a dating site. Among my observations during my travels were the very apparent traditional values, cultural pride, strength of heritage, devotion to family, respect of relationships, the role of religion and the personal core values. It is a given that the communities in our marketplaces produce handsome men and beautiful women that trigger the attraction to one another. But it is the core values and qualities that sustain a friendship or deeper relationship. I already had a website designer under contract who built the site for many other businesses including my contracting business so we huddled and discussed the design of www.cebcor.com and the construction of www.latinconexiones.com. I provided the general sense of how the site should appear and function and she Latin Times Magazine
I believe that a very fair characterization is that the site has been created by, and for, Hispanics, Latinos and Caribbean’s. Latin Times Media: What makes LatinConexiones.com different than other dating or relationship sites? Hig Rodriguez-Dillinger: One of the most gratifying reactions I have experienced is the volume of complements that I have received from all over the world about the appearance, presentation and feel of the site. Those who visit are immediately impressed that it is a site that is devoted to developing friendships and relationships. It also shows some of what love looks like as it is expressed between two people. It is very apparent that it is not a “hook-up” site and it does not attempt to orchestrate who meets whom. We feel that we should leave the many, many personality questions to the members to find the answers they seek about one another. How people ask and answer questions of each other is a very exciting part of forming a new relationship. We allow unlimited photos and we have included an article on both of our websites about the type and quality of photos to add. We are all very unique and we are all multi-faceted and the photos are a very important opportunity for members to show themselves in the many different settings that are their life. We offer support to our members that goes beyond what most sites offer. Relationship experts report that one of the most difficult challenges that people have enrolling on a site is writing their profile. We all have difficulty being completely objective about ourselves so LatinConexiones offers assistance in this area. To facilitate that assistance we are training people in their home countries to help new members create an accurate description to attract other members. Latin Times Media: What type of members do you want to attract to the website? Hig Rodriguez-Dillinger: We feel that we will attract new members who value true friendships and true relationships and sincerely believe that love grows from those two flower beds. We all have friends that we love dearly and we treasure those friendships. We all have relationships that we respect and admire and we treasure them dearly. Not all of us have the love of a lifelong partner. Yet! But most of us know, or have seen, true love and how beautiful a place it can be. I believe that most of us believe that there exists that person who connects with us in enough ways to www.Latin-Times.com
make us happier in a life-long relationship. Latin Times Media: What are the most popular countries currently using the LatinConexiones.com website? Hig Rodriguez-Dillinger: What has amazed all of us associated with the site is how fast awareness of the site has grown around the world. In a very short time since our launch we are in 24 different countries and 32 of the United States. What has affected our growth is the primary channels that we currently have to introduce the site to the many different marketplaces. Currently, the United States has the most members and there is so much revealed in that statement. The United States has the biggest and most aggressive dating sites actively recruiting new members yet the growth of LatinConexiones.com has been phenomenal. I think it a very solid statement that a relationship site created by Hispanics, Latinos and Caribbeans and for those communities is definitely fulfilling a marketplace need. Our next most active areas are the Caribbean, Central America and parts of South America. I am very excited that enrollment by European members, Canadians and the United Kingdom is so high. Latin Times Media: What do you see as your greatest challenges at this time? Hig Rodriguez-Dillinger: There are two great challenges and meeting one of them goes a long way to meeting the other. Market awareness is always a great challenge for any new product or service. We are utilizing every means possible to spread the awareness of LatinConexiones. Social media and print media are very important. We are doing that. Word of mouth has been huge for us and helps to explain the international and widespread acceptance. We have “boots on the ground” in some countries and marketplaces and as they are publicizing the site I am making contributions to those economies. The second challenge is to have potential new members understand that LatinConexiones is so very different from the previous notions they had about dating sites. Ours is devoted to building relationships and once a new member enters the site it becomes quite apparent that we are different. Different and better. Read more at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com or scan QR Code to Register TODAY!
Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
el spotlight
In her nineteen years serving as an advocate for justice, she has done everything it takes to be qualified for the position of Circuit Court Judge with a very diverse legal back ground. Polo’s varied legal experience serving as a state prosecutor and private practitioner has provided her with a strong foundation to serve the citizens of Hillsborough County as a Circuit Court Judge. Polo has tried hundreds of cases to verdict before both judges and juries. In addition, active practices in both civil and criminal law provide her with an acute familiarity with the rules of evidence, civil procedure and criminal procedure. Moreover, Polo has practiced in multiple counties and circuits. All of these experiences have provided her with a well-rounded perspective to utilize in a judicial role. Latin Times Media: What is your Hispanic cultural history -where did your familia come from? Melissa “Missy” Polo: Cuba and Sicily. I come from a lineage of working class immigrants who have served this community for three generations as small business owners, teachers, firefighters, plumbers, doctors, dentists and cigar factory workers. My paternal grandfather, Silvio Polo, Sr., immigrated to this country from Cuba at the age of 14 with nothing to his name. He learned English, put himself through school, started a family and built his own surgical supply and equipment business. My Papa was compelled to share his success with others and serve his community. In 1971, alongside Reverend Jim Holmes, the pastor at his church, Papa worked to start the area’s premier provider of free healthcare, The Judeo-Christian Health Clinic. Today, the Clinic continues to provide hope and access to healthcare, recording just under 40,000 patient visits last year alone. The beginning of the Clinic’s Mission Statement is a testament to my grandfather’s belief “that we should do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God…” My maternal great-grandfather, Salvatore Spoto, came from similar immigrant stock. Upon arriving in the United States from Santo Stefano, Sicily, he opened a business, Spoto’s Men’s Shop, worked alongside his family to make it a success and generously gave back to the Community. My Nana (maternal grandmother) is also from Cuba.
passionate, who can keep an open mind and see the value in different perspectives. Being Latina is part of my identity through its unifying culture, faith, history and tradition. It is extremely important that I celebrate my heritage and carry it with me not only in my profession but wherever I go. Latin Times Media: Why did you decide to run for judge? Melissa “Missy” Polo: I am a third generation Tampa native and lifelong resident of Hillsborough County who was raised in a highly respected, close knit and loving family. From an early age, it was instilled in me to serve the community I live in as a way of giving back. My ancestors who emigrated from Cuba and Sicily to the United States passed along a tradition of hard work, integrity, respect, compassion and community service. These same principles have guided my successful law practice for over 20 years and are equally important to the legitimacy of our legal system and public confidence in a fair and impartial judiciary. I am passionate about the law and my hometown along with being committed to public service and the administration of justice. My passion for the law began at a young age. Through the years, I was able to observe and be mentored by distinguished lawyers and judges which influenced my decision to attend law school. As a result of their encouragement, I am seizing the opportunity to run in this open circuit court seat and carry out my commitment to serve our community the most effective way I know how. For those reasons, I am seeking judicial office.
Latin Times Media: Is this your first run for this I was brought up to value the importance of position? family, education, loyalty, hard work and com- Melissa “Missy” Polo: No, I ran for this position one time prior in 2014, losing by 1.25 %. munity involvement. Latin Times Media: What does being a Latina Latin Times Media: What qualifications and skills do you feel you would bring to this posileader mean to you? Melissa “Missy” Polo: Being Latina for me is tion? a reminder of the courage, perseverance and Melissa “Missy” Polo: In my twenty years servsacrifices my grandparents struggled through ing as an advocate for justice, I have done evso that I was afforded better opportunities. I erything it takes to be qualified for the position was raised in a diverse community of individ- of Circuit Court Judge with a very diverse legal uals who taught me the importance of faith back ground. My varied legal experience servand family and the value of hard work, justice, ing as a state prosecutor and private practitioner community service and respect for others, have provided me with a strong foundation to regardless of their race, religion or socioeco- serve the citizens of Hillsborough County as a nomic backgrounds. Strong leaders in our Circuit Court Judge. I have tried hundreds of community are those who are tolerant, com- cases to verdict before both judges and juries. This Issue of Latin Times Magazine is sponsored by
In addition, active practices in both civil and criminal law provide me with an acute familiarity with the rules of evidence, civil procedure and criminal procedure. Moreover, I have practiced in multiple counties and circuits. All of these experiences have provided me with a well-rounded perspective to utilize in a judicial role. In the past, local news media have commented on my judicial qualifications. For example, The Tampa Tribune said I have a thoughtful and deliberate manner appropriate for the bench. The Tampa Times said “Polo has a firm grasp on all areas of the law and is keenly aware of the need for the courts to handle cases in a timely manner. She has a strong sense of fairness and an even-keel temperament that would command order and respect in the courtroom.” Another news editor has said that I have a wide range of legal experience, am intelligent and efficient. Adding that my professional manner would serve the community well on the bench and I would make a good judge. I have tremendous respect for others and for the legal profession. As such, if elected, I vow is to serve the citizens of Hillsborough County by applying the law established by the legislature and appellate courts, and by effectively managing the large volume of cases filed in our circuit. Latin Times Media: Why should voters vote for you? Melissa “Missy” Polo: I am the most qualified in my race. My life’s work has been in the courthouse and courtroom working with judges, prosecutors, public defenders, peers, clerks, bailiffs and victims. I’ve learned the applicable law prosecuting and defending hundreds of cases in which circuit court judges preside over (Probate, Criminal Felonies, Juvenile Delinquency and Dependency, Family and Civil matters over $15,000). My legal acumen coupled with my courthouse relationships and community involvement will enable me to run an organized, efficient, respectful and fair courtroom. As the daughter of hard working parents, they instilled in me a sense of faith, family and service, I feel becoming your next circuit court judge is the best way I can give back to this community I love.
Nominated for the categories of Song of the Year, Record of the Year for the Latin Grammy's Awarded 5 times in past years by the Latin Grammy's with 9 nominations in total, Enrique Iglesias, The Most Famous Latin Singer of the planet is honored to be nominated once again for the Latin Grammy's with two nominations for his hit song DUELE EL CORAZON for the categories Song of the Year, and Record of the Year. Enrique and his latest single DUELE EL CORAZON are breaking records, being number one in Brazil a non Spanish speaking country, while the video reaches over 336 million views. The single became the head of the Billboard charts in countries like Mexico, Portugal, Romania, Guatemala, and top US lists like US Hot Latin, Latin Pop and Tropical Airplay. For DUELE EL CORAZON video link click here. The prestigious Latin Grammy's will take place on Thursday, November 17, 2016 and will be broadcasted live from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will air in the United States on the Univision Network from 8-11 p.m. ET/PT (7 p.m. Central).
Los 2016 Premios Juventud GAVE LATIN DJs A CHANCE OF A LIFETIME Por Gabriela Guerreo
Prior to the youth awards show three hottest up-and-coming Latin tion got together to compete for tle at the Surfcomber Hotel in
“Premios Juventud” (PJ), DJs from across the nathe popular DJ@PJ batSouthbeach, Miami, FL.
All aspiring DJs who were at least 21 years old and passionate about music submitted an online application earlier this year. The top finalists were selected by a panel of experts and Network producers. All those who participated in DJ@PJ are Spanish speakers, can play an open format and electronica with a Latin spin, and are active on social media. Contestants were chosen based on mixing skills, creativity, showmanship/energy, and their mastery of the Spanish language. All three finalist DJs have experience playing at different hot spots, music festivals and alongside popular artists. The DJ@PJ battle this year was a high-energy competition hosted by Roberto Hernandez and Danella Urbay, celebrities of Univision’s “Sal y Pimienta” show. Under a hot Florida sunny day, special guest singer Wisin thrilled his fans with a dynamic performance of his latest hits. Luckily, fans watched the show from the pool. The DJ@PJ 2016 battle judges were: Enrique Santos, Maffio, and DJ Luian (who I am sure wanted to be in the pool!) The winner of the DJ@PJ battle was DJ Duo Argelo (Mauricio and Jorge Arguello - Las Vegas, Nevada). They had the chance to spin at the PJ 2016 awards show and did an incredible job. Read More: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
Billo Frómeta y Robbie Voces de Billo Draco Rosa Hoy Habló de la fé Por: Gabriela Guerrero En el mes de Agosto, Miami cele-
Draco Rosa visitó los estudios de SiriusXM hoy para la serie “SiriusXM ICONOS,” reuniones íntimas y bilingues con artistas íconos Latinos, embajadores de la cultura Latina. La presentación tuvo lugar frente a una audiencia de fans y radio escuchas de SiriusXM y constó de una presentación acústica por parte de Draco. El cantautor confesó que “enfermé y me cambiaron las prioridades.” Habló de la fé, de perderla, de la gratitud y el amor. Y, se declaró un “milagro caminante.” Draco canto “Te fumaré,” “Lie without a Lover,” y “The Banjo Song.” Latin Times Magazine
bró los 100 años de natalicio del dominicano Billo Frómeta en el Restaurante Canaima Doral, durante la presentación official de la orquesta Voces de Billo Hoy. Oswaldo Delgado, Ender Carruyo y Gustavo Farrera, tres de los cantantes que formaron parte de la exitosa trayectoria de la Orquesta Billo’s Caracas Boys del aclamado Billo Frómeta y el bolerista carabobeño Jorge Velasquez, unieron sus voces al empresario colombo-venezolano Saúl Campanella, para darle vida a este gran proyecto.
Amigos For Kids Kicked Off 25th Anniversary Celebrations with its 2016 Miami Celebrity Domino Night Recognized as the organization’s signature event, the 2016 Miami Celebrity Domino Night was a star-studded festivity committed to raising awareness about child abuse and neglect. Benefiting Amigos for Kids yearlong programs, the night featured the renowned celebrity blue carpet, celeb domino players, an open bar courtesy of presenting sponsor Bacardí U.S.A., an impressive silent auction, plenty of live entertainment, South Florida culinary fare, and much more. “Domino Night is recognized as one of South Florida’s most highly anticipated fundraising events, and we are grateful that the community came together once again against child abuse and neglect,” said Amigos for Kids President & CEO, Rosa Maria Plasencia. The 2016 Miami Celebrity Domino Night was one of the most successful events in Domino’s 14year history. Guests mingled with iconic celebrities and personalities such as Gisella Aboumrad, María Celeste Arrarás, Yanko Castro, Mario Cimarro, Erick Cuesta, Fernando Corona, Edith González, Ambrosio Hernández, Miss Universe 2013 Gabriela Isler, Carmen Jara, Karolina con K, and Miss Universe 2006 Zuleyka Rivera, to name a few. They also danced the night away with live performances by the Groove Republik Band, Locos por Juana, and Miami Heat resident disc jockey DJ Irie. A perfect night was capped by a midnight laser light show sponsored by Celebrity Cruises.
Voces de Billo Hoy es una orquesta consagrada a revivir y mantener los ritmos tropicales sembrados, e incorporar nuevos arreglos y composiciones que Read More: harán recordar del sonido de aquel- www.LatinTimesMedia.com las grandes orquestas del ayer.
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Abraza el calor de tu cultura!
the red carpet, and a perfect warm up for what ended up being one of the best awards shows in the past couple of years (my opinion.) These were the big winners of the night, and remember, the nominees and winners are chosen by their fans: Group CNCO (yes that is the name, pronounced cinco which means five because the group has 5 members, but the group name is missing the I) Premios Juventud is a fairly new group. The group will 2016 – An Up Close and certainly gain more popularity now after winning in five categories out Personal Review of six nominations: Best dressed, By Gabriela Guerrero Voice of the Moment, Producers Choice Award, My Pop Rock Artist, Retro night was the theme for and My favorite Tuitero (yes, that is the Premios Juventud PJ 2016, a word meaning twitter celebrity.) and what a groovy night it was! The red carpet (it was actually gray) For the second year in a row, Luis was filled with celebrities looking Coronel took home the Regional glamorous and wearing their best Mexican Artist of the year award. retro outfits; photographers try- He was happy and had a smile ing to capture every moment (and from ear to ear. He was thankful hopefully something “out of the that his hard work finally paid off. ordinary” to sell;) and funky music Marc Anthony won the Best Tropplayed by DJ Karlos, winner of the ical Artist award. He seemed surDJ@PJ battle. During the “gray” prised and shared the award with the carpet at the pre-show, the press other artists in the same category had the opportunity to photograph who did not win. I have seen Marc and interview the talent who took a Anthony in several events & conferfew minutes of their busy night to ences, and had a chance to talk to chat about their current and future him for a bit, and I can truly say that projects (and maybe a little about a he is exactly what we all see on stage: subject that might be controversial a humble man, unselfish, with good at the moment.) PRs (public rela- feelings and with an incredible talent. tions agents) took the opportunity Colombian singer JBalvin was recto introduce new talent to the press. ognized with the award Mi Fan Some of them were lucky to land Army (his army of fans.) JBalvin an interview, it all depended if a ce- thanked his social media followers, lebrity (meaning popular) walked by fan clubs and fans for such an honor. and took the spotlight away. I re- A sweet moment was when young spect those reporters who interview musician Luis Figueroa won the De new talent and treat them the same Cover a Cover award. Luis got teary way as they treat the popular ones; eyes and emotional before going on that is professionalism. After all, stage to accept the award, and Marc they could become the next A-lister! Anthony gave Luis a hug. Luis won And I also respect those “famous” the award for doing the cover of artists who take the time to talk to Marc Anthony’s song “Flor Pálida.” the press during pre-shows, they re- A nice surprise was the award El ally don’t need to, they have enough Molusco received, the Qué Acmedia coverage as it is. I guess you torazo (What an Actor) Award, can tell who really is an artist at considering actors like Antoheart, because he just wants to share nio Banderas and Fernando with the world how happy, thank- Colunga were also nominated. ful and appreciative he is, and does not need to pretend he doesn’t see Well, about the show, it was full of or hear the reporters calling out his surprises, entertainment, and overall name. Side note: I remember once, well organized and executed. I am a very famous female singer from not an expert of putting togethMexico, top talent, was very late to er live TV shows; however, I have the show. She walked the red carpet attended a few and I can only say (which at that point was over) and that this one was perfectly carried heard her name being called out, out. I am sure there were “issues,” and she stopped (yes, she stopped!) but as long as the public didn’t noto give brief interviews to the few tice, it was perfect. It was nice to reporters packing their equipment see that during commercials, the (usually top talent walks early in the public was allowed to leave and renight.) She was charming and did turn to their seats without having to not want to miss any reporter who wait until the next commercial (yes, wanted to interview her. Needless it happens in some award shows.) to say I admire her even more now. The seating was done differentThe pre-show ended with Jakob ly than in other award shows. The Forever and Farruko singing “Has- floor area had fans standing all ta Que Se Seque El Malecon.” It over it, not just below the stage, it was a wonderful and fun closing of seemed like a big party. The talent
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was accommodated on one side of the floor. Most times the floor area is set up with chairs for the talent and fans who are called “fillers.” Fillers are asked to take the seats of the artist when they go on stage, or back stage, or when they leave; this is done to give the illusion of full attendance. In that type of set up, fillers have a chance to sit next to an celebrity and get that fabulous selfie. I guess that is the prize they get after standing in line for hours under the sun and being moved from one chair to another. Going back to this show, the fans in the floor area carried a fanny pack provided by the organizers with different lights inside to wear during different performances. During commercials, they were given instructions on which light to use for which performance. It actually looked amazing when the colorful neon lights were on. I have to congratulate to whomever came up with that idea, and to those involved in making it all work seamlessly. The retro show began with Gente de Zona and Los Del Río performing La Macarena with everyone singing and dancing to the “heyyy Macarena.” I can honestly say that from that moment on, nobody in the section where I sat stopped dancing. It was a fun crowd.
Side note: soon you will hear on the radio a remix of the song performed by Gente de Zona and Los Del Río, it is called “Más Macarena.” Better start practicing those moves again! A grand piano was in the center of the floor and I heard the first lyrics of Marc Anthony’s song “Flor Pálida” and I though “That sounds just like Marc Anthony,” but nah, that couldn’t be him, I didn’t hear he was performing. I looked up to be sure, and I saw Luis Figueroa singing. I was impressed by his beautiful voice. I looked down for a second and next I see Marc Anthony walking on stage to sing along, the crowd went crazy. It was a beautiful surprise, and a perfect rendition of “Flor Pálida” by Luis Figueroa! Enrique Iglesias performed a mix of his greatest hits finalizing with his latest single “Duele el Corazon.” Just watching Enrique perform is a show by itself. He brought energy and sexiness to the stage while his fans danced and sang along. What makes this singer a success, besides his talent, is the fact that he is as nice on stage as he is in everyday life, a true artist.
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PJ 2016 concluded the night with colorful confetti falling from the ceiling while the public cheered and danced to a perfect awards show night. More at: www.LatinTimesMedia.com
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