Monday Mar 6, 2023

The San Juan Star

With ‘Creed III,’ a Franchise Finds New Fertile Ground

P20

Transforming a Region

Nations Agree on Language for Historic Treaty to Protect Ocean Life

The San Juan Daily Star, the only paper with News Service in English in Puerto Rico, publishes 7 days a week, with a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday edition, along with a Weekend Edition to cover Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Cordillera Central region leads the way in FEMA-backed road projects

By THE STAR STAFF

Puerto Rico’s Cordillera Central and the public roads that connect the 15 municipalities that are part of it have received -- to date -- obligations totaling over $672 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair bridges and roads in the region, the agency said in a statement Sunday.

The roads are a key element for the safe transportation of residents and for the small businesses throughout the region recognized for its touristic and cultural value, Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero pointed out.

“The reconstruction in this region brings with it other collateral benefits, such as activity in surrounding businesses,” he said. “We understand the positive impact of these reconstructed roads on other sectors and that is why 95 percent of these projects have funds assigned for mitigation activities to prevent this type of damage from happening again.”

In Jayuya, FEMA allocated nearly $268 million for 123 projects aimed at repairing municipal roads. One of those projects entails the repair of two municipal roads in the Limón Sector of the Mameyes neighborhood with nearly $3 million. There the asphalt and concrete curbs and gutters will be replaced, and gabion walls and metal rails will be installed.

Jayuya Mayor Jorge González Otero said the road repairs in the agricultural coffee-growing region not only benefit the residents, but also have an impact on the economic sector, since near his town is the Tierra Alta Agritourism Project, a coffee plantation where a hot air balloon is located, among other attractions.

“People see the difference in those places where these projects have been developed with new asphalt, curbing, walls, metal railings and mitigation measures. The transformation is like night and day compared to how our roads were left after Maria, especially in this neighborhood that is the home of more than 100 families, most of them with limited resources,” González Otero said.

Mitigation measures increase resilience in projects, which was the case with Naranjito, where FEMA obligated nearly $36 million for several road projects, such as the El Banco Road in the Cedro Arriba neighborhood. About $418,000 of the allocation was assigned for mitigation measures that included a concrete curb along the road to collect and direct away runoff water and prevent erosion. Also, more than 2,500 plants were planted to protect the embankment fill and a jute mesh was placed over slopes to reduce the effects of erosion, among other measures.

Naranjito Deputy Mayor José Rafael Rodríguez said mitigation measures translate into a strengthened municipality, which was demonstrated when the rainfall associated with Hurricane Fiona did not affect the project. Likewise, this roadway serves as an alternate route in case of emergencies or when there is heavy traffic, making the repairs a source of

relief for the more than 100 families that drive on the road.

“This area has schools, academies and about 10 to 12 businesses,” Rodríguez said. “In addition, there is a positive impact for tourism because many people take this road to several well-known restaurants in the area visited by people from all over the island. Also, by making the road wider, there is more space for vehicles, and it is much safer, something that is very important for residents.”

For small business owner Aníbal Luis López Vásquez, owner of a restaurant operating on highway 809 for the past six years, the damage to the roads limited access and, therefore, visits from customers and tourists to his business.

“It’s very important that these funds be allocated because they make the roads accessible to people who are nervous about road safety,” he said. “Having well-built roads in good condition that are clean and safe gives confidence to people. These repairs have a positive impact because it makes tourists and clientele feel safe, so they can enjoy our businesses and our town.”

Puerto Rico Tourism Company Executive Director Carlos Mercado said his agency greatly appreciates FEMA’s contribution to repair roads in the mountain region, which he considers “one of the most attractive for local tourism and for receiving tourists from abroad.”

“It is gratifying to have safe and accessible roads so that our citizens and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, exquisite gastronomy, historical and cultural attributes found in this region,” Mercado said. “This project will contribute to enhancing the visitor experience and strengthen the tourism industry as an economic development tool for these municipalities and for all of Puerto Rico.”

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3) noted that, according to the COR3’s Quarterly Progress Report from October to December 2022, municipalities are leading close to 2,000 projects, most of which are in the Central Cordillera region, and there is an increase in projects under execution in the category of roads and bridges.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $29 billion under its Public Assistance program to help Puerto Rico recover from Hurricane Maria.

NPP confirms 3 party VPs at general assembly

By THE STAR STAFF

The New Progressive Party (NPP) held its general assembly on Sunday at Roberto Clemente Coliseum in Hato Rey to ratify Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón, Sen. Thomas Rivera Schatz and Rep. Carlos “Johnny” Méndez Núñez as vice presidents of the party.

“The Clemente [Coliseum] fell short,” said Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia, the party president, in his closing message. “The next assembly will be in the Choliseo.”

The governor reiterated his interest in seeking re-election in 2024 to finish “the work.”

“Those in the opposition say they don’t see the work,” he said. “Well, we are shutting their mouths with work, work and more work.”

Pierluisi was introduced by Rivera Schatz, who asked for “the entire team” to win the next elections in 2024.

“We have a governor who has worked hard, who has done the work, who despite the Legislature led by the Popular [Democratic] Party has governed. We have a great governor in Pedro Pierluisi,” he said. “Likewise, we have a resident commissioner who has done an exceptional job, a champion. We want the full team in 2024 to continue the work.”

“We have worked so that Puerto Rico understands that we have to continue the great work, that nothing can distract us from arriving united in 2024,” Rivera Schatz added. “That if there is any internal controversy, we overcome it and go together against the leftists, against the colonialists

and those who are the enemies of Puerto Rico.”

Speaking before Rivera Schatz, the resident commissioner said “here we are those who want our party to return to its roots.”

“Those of us who want our party to return to the humility and humanism of [former governor and NPP founder Luis A.] Ferré. To the sense of sensitivity, of empathy that Don Luis A. Ferré taught each of you,” González Colón said. “All of us here have a function. Statehood cannot be only

of the elected official, statehood is the cause that moves us and unites us to defend the causes of humble people. To feel that we do not arrive at our homes without knowing if we are going to have electricity or not. That no increases in [the cost of] electricity be allowed, that no increases of any kind be allowed.”

NPP Secretary General Carmelo Ríos Santiago said 5,766 delegates participated for 92%, and 9,500 stakeholders showed up at the coliseum.

Dignity Project looks to establish committees in all 78 towns

By THE STAR STAFF

The Dignity Project (Proyecto Dignidad) held its convention over the weekend under the theme “Run to Win,” announcing to all attendees the official opening of the filing of candidacies at the Juan H. Cintrón Fair Complex in Ponce. In the morning, the political organization offered a list of posts to aspiring candidates for the 2024 elections. In the afternoon, officials unveiled candidates’ steps to prepare for the upcoming elections.

“At Proyecto Dignidad, we are developing a strong and permanent institution that will grow in the coming decades; we want to transform the politics of Puerto Rico into a policy of principles, ethics and honesty,” Dignity Project (DP) Secretary General Nilda Pérez said. “We are working, constituting and reorganizing the municipal committees for this. We have the goal that this coming summer, we will have constituted all the committees of the 78 municipalities. We currently have 47 working, and on the agenda, we already have the next five committees that will be founded

during the month of March.”

“We are convinced that Proyecto Dignidad is the political vehicle of most Puerto Ricans,” said Nelson Rosario, the DP’s electoral commissioner. “Therefore, our obligation as a party is to organize ourselves, offer the best candidates, and make ourselves known. There is no doubt that with our efforts and God’s favor, we will have the outstanding support of the people.”

César A. Vázquez Muñiz, the president and founder of the DP, said in his closing message to convention attendees that “everything begins with a reason for being so that our people can have hope again; we can be bearers of good news.”

“So may the good news reach all corners of our land that a group of honest and capable citizens aspire to public office,” he said.

“We are truly committed to the well-being of the people and united to work to forge a better future.”

The prospective candidates will be municipal legislators with their respective 78 mayoral candidates, 16 senators, and 40

district representatives.

The DP, which was founded in 2019, does not endorse a specific territorial status option.

The party is a conservative one that advocates declaring pornography a public health issue and imposing restrictions on abortion.

In the 2021 legislative session, Rep. Lissie

Burgos attempted to introduce a bill to ban the use of hormone therapy on minors but it was defeated in committee. Additionally, the party also brought in for review House Bill 764, which would restrict athletes to participating on sports teams of their gender as assigned at birth.

From left, Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón, Sen. Thomas Rivera Schatz and Rep. Carlos “Johnny” Méndez Núñez

César A. Vázquez Muñiz, president and founder of Proyecto Dignidad

Pennsylvania woman who disappeared in 1992 is found alive in Puerto Rico

By EDUARDO MEDINA

APennsylvania woman who went missing more than 30 years ago and whose family believed she was dead has been found alive in Puerto Rico, solving a decadeslong mystery, authorities said late last week.

The woman, Patricia Kopta, now 83, was found on the island after she shared tidbits about her past to nursing home employees who had been taking care of her for years, Chief Brian Kohlhepp of the Ross Township Police Department said at a news conference.

The nursing home contacted the department last year, telling investigators that they had perhaps been taking care of a woman with dementia who might have disappeared from the Pennsylvania township near Pittsburgh in 1992. It was not clear what details Kopta shared that prompted the nursing home to contact authorities, or how she had gotten there in the first place.

Kopta’s younger sister, Gloria Smith, who attended the news conference last Friday, summed up how she felt when the police determined through DNA evidence last week that her sister was indeed in Puerto Rico: “Shock. I didn’t believe it. It was total shock.”

Bob Kopta, 86, of Pittsburgh, had been married to Patricia Kopta for 20 years when she went missing. At the news conference, he also expressed disbelief.

“Thirty-one years,” he said, “and it’s been bad.”

Neither Bob Kopta nor the Ross Township Police Department immediately responded to requests for comment Saturday. Smith also could not be reached for comment.

Back home, Patricia Kopta, who was nicknamed “the sparrow,” was known to wander the streets of downtown Pittsburgh as a street preacher. She also had a history of mental health struggles before she disappeared at the age of 52, her family and the police chief said.

“She had made statements to other family individ-

uals that she was leaving, that she was concerned that she was going to be placed into a care facility here,” Kohlhepp said.

For years, based on sparse tips and leads, local officials believed that Kopta had left on her own volition.

In 1999, seven years after she went missing, nursing home employees found Kopta wandering the streets of Puerto Rico. She refused to discuss her private life or background with the nursing home staff, Kohlhepp said, so they crafted a sparse narrative on her origins: A cruise ship from Europe had dropped her off on one of the beaches.

At the time, her husband and relatives were beginning to believe she might be dead.

“It was hard on all of us because we — my mother, my sister and myself — we worried about her constantly,” Smith said.

Last year, likely because of her dementia, Kopta “leaked enough details about her identity that they were able to connect enough dots to contact us,” Kohlhepp said.

Workers at the nursing home, the name of which was not shared by authorities, took a DNA swab of the woman in their care and sent it to investigators. DNA samples were then collected from Smith and Kopta’s nephew.

The samples were sent to a lab, where a familial test concluded that the woman in Puerto Rico was indeed Kopta, police said. Even before the results came back, investigators had believed for months that the older woman in a photo from Puerto Rico was Kopta, her long brown hair from the ’90s now trimmed and graying.

Smith said she was planning to visit her sister in Puerto Rico soon, even if the dementia means Kopta won’t remember her.

Bob Kopta told The Associated Press that he was content just knowing what had happened to his wife.

“After 30 years, you try to forget about it,” he said. “Now, I can forget about it. We know what happened, and she is taken care of now.”

At the news conference Friday, Kopta listened intently as the police shared news about his wife.

Later, when he spoke in front of a throng of reporters and television cameras, he recalled his efforts to find her, such as the time he paid for an advertisement in a Puerto Rican paper that alerted readers to his missing wife.

He had long known she liked the island, and he guessed that perhaps she was there.

“She could have come home any time,” Kopta said. “But she — that’s what she wanted. She always said she wanted to go to a warm climate.”

Reflection encouraged on International Working Women’s Day

By THE STAR STAFF

Amárilis Pagán Jiménez, the executive director of Proyecto Matria, is inviting the public to celebrate the International Day of Working Women on Wednesday.

“The world moves because there are women who work, provide care, educate and more,” Pagán said in a written statement. “On March 8, we invite the country to commemorate the International Day of Working Women by reflecting on how women move the world.”

She called for a collective reflection in which people can participate from wherever they are.

“Women move the world from homes and communities,” Pagán said. “We move the world in workspaces: industries, businesses, and universities. And we also move the world with the free and paid care work that sustains our children

and society. This collective reflection is a manifestation of solidarity from those same spaces: home, work or school.”

“On March 8 we will celebrate the energy and work of all women. Even those who are sometimes invisible because they are engaged in tasks of care and support for family welfare,” Pagán said. “All that effort has a value and is necessary for our economy to move.”

Enid Pérez Rodríguez, Matria’s public policy coordinator, noted that people from all over the island are invited to create groups to meet in their own spaces at home or work that day.

“The reflection recognizes that not everyone can mobilize to marches or other types of activities,” she said. “There are so many women whose ability to leave their homes and jobs is limited. We want them to join, from wherever they are, an activity in which they will be the protagonists because they only need reflection and the desire to read it.”

A family photo of Patricia Kopta, who was found after she shared tidbits about her past with employees at an island nursing home that had been taking care of her for years.

Scope of ‘blockchain’ technology that qualifies for tax incentives is broadened

By THE STAR STAFF

The Economic Development and Commerce Department (DDEC by its Spanish acronym) recently published a new regulatory framework broadening the scope of “blockchain” technology projects and digital assets that would qualify for tax incentives.

“Puerto Rico is on its way to becoming the technological leader in the region,” DDEC Secretary Manuel Cidre Miranda noted in an agency administrative memo. “Through this effort, we seek to be proactive in addressing an emerging technology that is creating a lot of economic activity around the world, and the island is not and should not be the exception. The U.S. states and the world are moving in this direction to create an environment of certainty and stability for the individuals and companies that work with this technology.”

The memo, published on Feb. 23, establishes definitions and clarifies which blockchain activities are eligible for tax exemption decrees under Act 60 of 2019, better known as the Tax Incentives Code. In addition, the memo defines limits to what is considered acceptable as an eligible activity within the code’s export of services chapter.

“On repeated occasions, we received queries about ‘blockchain,’ seeking information on activities that could be eligible under the Incentives Code,” DDEC Business Incentives Office Director Carlos Fontán Meléndez. “This [memo] provides a precise and accurate legal framework, which positions Puerto Rico at the forefront of this technology worldwide [in order] to continue to establish and expand businesses on the island based on this emerging technology.”

Keiko Yoshino, executive director of the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association, said that “as technology evolves, so do job opportunities.”

“By providing clear guidance on the validation of ‘blockchain’ as an eligible export service, Puerto Rico has demonstrated its interest in competing in the growing digital economy,” she said.

According to the memo, Puerto Rico can step up and take advantage of specific emerging industries in the technological sector by welcoming businesses engaged in blockchain development, blockchain validation, and related activities, including digital assets.

A blockchain is a digital ledger of transactions duplicated and distributed across a network of computer systems. These transactions are grouped into lists called blocks and are securely linked using cryptography. The network participants use software to verify the integrity of the blocks and thus, the transactions and associated data. The technology allows users to confirm that the transaction record is complete and unaltered unequivocally.

A digital asset can be explained as anything in binary data that is self-contained, uniquely identifiable, and has a value or usage. Therefore, with such technology, a person or entity can provide/support ownership, authenticity, transaction history, and location without third parties.

“Therefore, under the provisions of the Incentives Code and the public policy of the Government of Puerto Rico, the Secretary of the DDEC, in consultation with the Secretary of the [Treasury], determines that it is in the best interest and for the social and economic well being of Puerto Rico that ‘blockchain technology,’ ‘digital assets based on blockchain technology,’ ‘blockchain validation’ be considered eligible activities undertaken by the exempt business in Puerto Rico under Section 2031.01 (a)(11) of the Incentives Code, and the digital asset under Section 1020.02(a)(12) of the Incentives Code,” the regulations read.

Ex-Trujillo Alto mayor’s deputy gets 30 months for bribery

By THE STAR STAFF

Radames Benítez Cardona, the former executive assistant to then-Trujillo Alto Mayor José Luis Cruz Cruz, was sentenced late last week by U.S. District Court Judge Pedro Delgado Hernández to serve 30 months in prison, U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow announced.

“The citizens of Trujillo Alto entrusted the defendant with serving their communities with honesty and integrity; instead, he engaged in an illegal scheme and used his position for personal gain,” Muldrow said in a written statement.

“Public officials who fail to faithfully fulfill the duties of their office, and those who conspire with them, will be investigated, prosecuted and punished for their actions,” he added.

Benítez Cardona pleaded guilty on Nov. 30, 2022, and admitted to receiving monthly bribes from a municipal waste management contractor, including separate cash

payments of $17,250 on May 22, 2021, June 12, 2021, and July 25, 2021.

According to court documents, Benítez Cardona enriched himself by accepting bribes in exchange for obtaining municipal contracts for a waste management contractor when opportunities arose. The scheme required Individual A to pay a monthly bribe of 75 cents per house to defendant Benítez Cardona in connection with a 2018 Trujillo Alto municipal contract awarded to Company A for garbage collection. The monthly bribe amounted to about $17,250 for 23,000 homes.

In addition, Benítez Cardona agreed to give a portion of the bribe money to Cruz, the then-mayor of Trujillo Alto. Cruz was sentenced on Jan. 11 to 24 months in prison for his involvement in the bribery scheme.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s San Juan Field Office. Prosecutor Scott H. Anderson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico and Trial Attorney Nicholas W. Cannon of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section were in charge of the case.

Keiko Yoshino, executive director of the Puerto Rico Blockchain Trade Association

Former Trujillo Alto mayor José Luis Cruz Cruz

Low-income families absorb end of extra food stamp benefits

By LINDA QIU

Tens of millions of low-income families lost additional food stamp benefits last week after the expiration of a pandemicera policy that had increased the amount they received, leaving food banks bracing for a surge in demand and some advocates predicting a rise in hunger nationwide.

For nearly three years of the pandemic, emergency legislation enacted by Congress sought to cushion the economic blow of the coronavirus, allowing all participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to receive the maximum monthly benefit, regardless of income. The extra cash, along with other economic assistance programs, helped keep food insecurity at bay and cut poverty rates to a record low.

But that temporary increase lapsed for more than 30 million people across 35 states and territories last Wednesday, effectively cutting benefits for the vast majority of recipients as inflation remains persistently high and many other coronavirus-era programs end.

“This is a cost shift from the federal government,” said Ellen Vollinger, SNAP director at the nonprofit Food Research & Action Center. “It just shifts the burden of hunger onto states and counties, to the charitable sector, but of course, most harshly, it shifts the burden to that household to try to make do with even less.”

Under the pandemic-era policy, each recipient got a monthly average of $251. That is expected to decline by about a third, or $82, in March, according to the Agriculture Department, which administers the food stamp program.

Those who qualify for the minimum benefit under the standard income guidelines — many of whom are older Americans relying on Social Security — will see the steepest decrease, from $281 in monthly benefits to only $23, according to Vollinger.

Even though the extra benefits will lapse, food stamp benefits will remain more generous than three years earlier, because the Biden administration permanently increased benefits by 25% over pre-pandemic levels.

Moreover, 10.5% of Americans reported being food insecure in 2019, the lowest rate since 2000. Food insecurity rates were not statistically different in the three years of the extra SNAP benefits, leading some to question their efficacy.

Angela Rachidi, a fellow at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, said she did not expect “the expiration to affect food insecurity rates much at all” and argued that warnings about a rise in hunger were exaggerated. She noted that in some states where the allotments had already ended, food insecurity rates appeared unchanged.

For some beneficiaries, the cuts may come as a surprise.

The additional allotment is contingent upon both state and federal declarations of public health emergencies. But while the federal public health emergency will expire in May, the food stamp policy is ending two months earlier because of a deal Congress struck in December, leaving state governments and advocates to relay the changes.

Larechia Baldwin, 29, a single mother of a 5-year-old boy in Worcester, Massachusetts, said she was worried about the end of the extra benefits. Her monthly allotment will decrease by over $100 in March, she estimated, the equivalent of losing a week’s worth of groceries. Adding to her financial headache, her monthly rent has increased by $200.

“How are you guys, professional people, want to do something to families that’s in this situation?” she said.

Baldwin said food banks and pantries in her area were short on certain items. She expects to visit more frequently, but she said that navigating the hours and finding transportation would be an extra worry as she does not own a car and is recovering from a stroke.

To make ends meet, Baldwin will most likely forgo expensive favorites, Lunchables for her son and haddock fish for her. Even after tightening her budget, she anticipates running out of food by the end of the month.

The “hunger cliff” is imminent and the abrupt lapse in benefits will only exacerbate the situation, Vollinger said. “It is a very big problem, and it’s hitting pretty precipitously.”

“The hardship is going to end up falling on the households that are going to somehow try to figure out, as best as they can, what to do on an allotment that, on average, will now be down to $6 a person a day,” Vollinger added.

The loss of benefits is coming as the cost of groceries, housing and energy is sharply increasing, said Vince Hall, chief government relations officer at Feeding America, a network of 200 food banks. The result is a “perfect storm,” he added. “Inflation is driving more people to need food

banks, but inflation also makes it more difficult for food banks to meet that demand.”

A handful of food banks and pantries have struggled to keep up with demand, in some cases running out of food altogether, Hall said. That number is only expected to increase as the emergency allotments expire, setting the stage for what is almost certain to be a rise in hunger.

“The majority of families on SNAP have children,” he said. “They have no clear pathway to solve for the termination of the emergency allotments. Children, senior citizens are not going to pick up extra hours at work or get a second job.”

The cuts are also likely to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations including Black and Latino families, older adults and the disabled, said Eric Mitchell, president of the Alliance to End Hunger.

“A lot of folks, they’re not only worried about being able to put food on the table, but how they’re going to put food on the table, how they’re going to pay for rent, how to heat or cool their home, how to pay for child care,” he said.

The pandemic-era policy has ended in 18 states, where food banks and SNAP recipients have reported increased hardship and food insecurity.

In Georgia, where emergency allotments ended in May, the Atlanta Community Food Bank said it was distributing as much food today as it did during the height of the pandemic.

Currently, the organization is serving about 600,000 people, or about 1 in every 10 residents in the Atlanta metro area. That is a 40% increase since 2021, according to Kyle Waide, bank’s president and CEO.

Cuts to SNAP benefits account for about half of the increase in demand, he said, attributing the rise to the end of other pandemic-era benefits, such as the expanded child tax credit and universal free school meals.

The Atlanta food bank is currently spending about $2.5 million a month to buy food, more than it has ever spent since its founding in 1979, and tapping into reserve funds to cover the cost, Waide said.

“But that is not sustainable,” he added. Absent an increase in food and funding directly distributed to food banks by the federal government, his organization is “only a few months away from being faced with having to make tough choices about how we can continue to purchase at this level.”

Hall also warned of the wider ramifications of the policy change, noting that the decreased benefits will result in “almost $3 billion in food purchases disappearing from the American economy” every month.

“Thirty-two million people are going to lose significant grocery purchasing power,” he said. “This is a moment of serious crisis.”

The cuts come as inflation remains persistently high and many other coronavirus-era programs end.

At least 12 dead after storms sweep the South

By AMANDA HOLPUCH

After powerful storms swept through the South on Friday, leaving at least 12 people dead and hundreds of thousands of customers without electricity Saturday, officials urged residents to use caution, as downed power lines and uprooted trees posed lingering threats.

Heavy rains, severe winds and tornadoes damaged homes and businesses in Alabama, Arkansas, the Carolinas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee and West Virginia.

Kentucky was hit particularly hard by the storms, which left at least five people dead in the state and about 370,000 customers without power as of Saturday, Gov. Andy Beshear said at a news conference. In Tennessee, nearly 100,000 customers did not have power as of Saturday, according to poweroutage.us.

Beshear said wind gusts reached up to 75 mph in some areas and that there had been at least two small tornadoes. He said power outages were affecting water systems, putting more than 1,800 residents under a boil-water advisory.

“When it comes to power, this is going to be a multiday event,” he said.

Clear skies and sunshine were forecast for the rest of the weekend, but Beshear warned residents to be careful because of threats from the storm damage.

He advised residents to only use generators outdoors and to treat every downed power line as if

it were live. He said more trees could fall because of the “very soggy, very wet” ground.

Beshear said five people died in the storms: a 68-year-old man in Simpson County, a 23-year-old man in Edmonson County, a 63-year-old man in Logan County, an 84-year-old man in Bath County and a 41-year-old woman in Fayette County. He did not say how they had died.

Several people died because of fallen trees, including three in Alabama.

A 70-year-old man was killed by a falling tree in Talladega County, Alabama, while sitting in his truck, the local coroner said. A 43-year-old man in Lexington, Alabama, died after a tree fell on him, said Kim Edgil Jones, the coroner in Lauderdale County, Alabama. And in Huntsville, Alabama, a man was cleaning up tree limbs when, shortly before 2 p.m., a tree fell on him, police said. The man, whose name was not released, was pronounced dead at the scene.

In Tennessee, the state’s Emergency Management Agency confirmed two weather-related fatalities. The communications director of the agency, Maggie Hannan, did not say how they died.

In Arkansas, a man in Scott County who was trying to meet his grandson drove into a flooded roadway and was swept away into a nearby river, authorities said.

A person was killed when a tree fell on their vehicle in Yazoo County, Mississippi, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said. Dozens of homes, a community college and an

At least 12 people died after high winds and heavy rains lashed the South on Friday, officials said.

apartment complex were damaged by the severe weather, the agency said.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol said a sergeant was trapped momentarily in a patrol car after several trees collapsed on top of it in Meigs County. The sergeant escaped without injuries.

Wind gusts reached up to 79 mph in Tennessee on Friday, the National Weather Service said. “If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like in

a tropical storm, this is it,” the service said on Twitter on Friday.

Zack Taylor, a meteorologist with the Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, said that the region would see much quieter and drier weather over the weekend.

“That would give time for the folks there to dry out and deal with the recovery efforts in terms of the downed trees and power lines,” Taylor said.

Eyeing DeSantis, Trump readies for a long primary battle

By SHANE GOLDMACHER, MICHAEL C. BENDER and MAGGIE HABERMAN

Inside the MAGA-clad corridors of this week’s Conservative Political Action Conference, the politics of the Republican Party seemed almost unchanged from the pinnacle of Donald Trump’s presidency. Sequin-wearing superfans jostled for selfies with whichever member of the Trump family happened to be nearby. Chants of “We love Trump!” rang out in the halls.

But outside the confines of the friendly gathering, Trump and his campaign have begun adjusting to the new reality of 2024: The former president may be the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination, but he is no longer the singular leader of his party.

After a fitful start, the Trump operation is actively preparing for the possibility of a

drawn-out 2024 primary. That means laying the groundwork to compete in a potential fight over delegates that could extend deep into next year. And it means shadowboxing with his ascendant but not-yet-official challenger, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, over donors and endorsements from inside their shared home state and beyond.

This is grunt work Trump was slow to undertake in his celebrity-powered but scattershot campaign in 2016. In 2020, he used his incumbency to scare off any serious challenges.

On the third time around, the Trump campaign’s focus on the traditional nuts and bolts is an acknowledgment of the race’s expected competitiveness, despite his unmatched standing as a former president and an early edge in the polls. But the threat of indictment hanging over the former president is just one reason that

2024 could unfold in the most untraditional of ways.

Trump said Saturday that even indictments would not spur his exit from the race as he maligned prosecutors eyeing him in Georgia and NewYork. His address to CPAC, the annual showcase of rightwing activists and energy, demonstrated one element of his continued political strength: the loyalty of vocal activists angry with the old guard of the party.

“I am your warrior. I am your justice,” Trump said in a speech laced with grievances that stretched more than 90 minutes. “And for those who have been wronged and betrayed, I am your retribution.”

The speech was just Trump’s fourth public event since his campaign began almost 16 weeks ago. But he is now ramping up his public schedule, with planning

underway for his first major 2024 rally and two policy speeches this month, according to two people familiar with the planning. Notably, DeSantis, who is expected to run but has not declared his intentions yet, skipped CPAC, instead setting out on a multistate tour to promote his new book about his leadership in Florida as a national model. On Sunday, DeSantis will deliver a speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California about his vision for the party.

Both men have trips planned to Davenport, Iowa, in the next two weeks — visiting the state that begins the nominating process.

“President Trump is still the leading candidate,” said Charlie Gerow, a Republican strategist and the vice chair of CPAC. “But it’s a much more wide-open race than it has been in the past.”

Trump won the annual straw poll at CPAC by a wide margin, and for the third consecutive year, DeSantis was his closest rival. Trump basked in his victory and vowed to “finish what we started.”

“We had a Republican Party that was ruled by freaks, neocons, globalists, openborder zealots and fools,” Trump declared. “But we are never going back to the party of Paul Ryan, Karl Rove and Jeb Bush.”

Ryan, the former House speaker, has recently spoken out against Trump and sits on the board of Fox News, a network whose lack of coverage of late has frustrated the Trump team. Bush, the former Florida governor and Trump’s rival in 2016, has spoken favorably about DeSantis.

In public and in private, Trump has already begun taking swipes at DeSantis, though he did not mention him Saturday. Trump’s campaign spent a small sum this week to run its first Facebook ads aimed at DeSantis, including one with a picture of both men and the caption: “Pictured: An Apprentice Learning from the Master.”

DeSantis has mostly ignored the taunting, although during an appearance on Fox News, he took an oblique shot at the infighting that plagued Trump’s White House by talking about how his governorship “didn’t have a single leak.”

The shift in the political dynamics can be seen clearly in the Trump operation’s nascent delegate strategy.

Before 2020, the Trump campaign successfully played the role of the party establishment. From their perch at the White House, his aides shaped state parties’ rules to make it harder for challengers to accumulate delegates. The goal — which they achieved — was to strangle any primary challenges before they could develop.

Heading into 2024, the Trump team’s outlook is very different. With memories

of the 2016 efforts to stop Trump’s victory in mind, they have been canvassing state parties to hunt for opportunities to shape convention and delegate rules to Trump’s advantage.

There is no modern precedent for a former president’s competing in a contested primary, making it difficult to project Trump’s political strength going forward.

But there are signs of his diminished influence in the party. The former president’s grassroots fundraising has dropped off considerably: In 2021, when Trump spoke at CPAC in his first major speech after the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol, he raised $3.2 million online in the 48 hours around the speech.

He raised roughly half as much online — $1.6 million — the day of and the

day after his 2024 announcement late last year, according to federal records.

What’s more, there is a lack of public support so far from some of his longestserving aides. On a call weeks ago, Trump asked Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas, his former White House press secretary, to endorse him, and she replied that she would not yet do so, according to two people briefed on the discussion, who asked not to be named discussing the private call. Trump was disappointed but not angry in response on the call, the people said.

An aide to the governor did not respond to a request for comment, and Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump, did not address the matter directly, saying that Trump had support from “everyday

Americans” and was “leading by wide margins in poll after poll.”

The sheer volume of Trump paraphernalia at CPAC was a stark reminder of Trump’s unmatched hold on grassroots activists. The conference’s exhibition hall was something of a Trump bazaar: A proTrump super political action committee set up a replica of the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, there was a glittering array of election-denial accessories for sale, and activists manned a booth urging attendees to support people prosecuted in the Jan. 6 riot.

“DeSantis is a great governor, probably the best governor in the nation,” said Sarah Palin, a former Republican vice presidential candidate. But, she added, “Nobody can compare to Trump.”

Kari Lake, former Republican candidate for Arizona governor, speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference in National Harbor, Md., on Friday, March 3, 2023.

The pilot or the marine? Biden may soon announce pick for top commander.

Pentagon-speak for a future war with China or Russia. Neither man is the extrovert that is Milley, with his fill-a-room personality and ability to send conservative radio and news shows into a spiral of vitriol. But both would bring different skills to the job.

Brown is often viewed by other officers as cautious, right up until he’s not. He deliberates for long periods, one colleague said, but then springs into action with a speed that meets the moment.

“Watching him with the other senior officers in the military, he would often be the quiet one in the room,” said Heather Wilson, who was Air Force secretary in the Trump administration. “But when he spoke, other people listened.”

after assuming the top job in the Marine Corps was to announce that he was getting rid of tanks, a decision that infuriated a group of retired generals.

For Berger, the reasoning was simple: Any war with China would probably be fought on Pacific islands near Taiwan. Dragging tanks around the Philippines and Okinawa did not make sense, he reasoned, and he could save around $3 billion by getting rid of hundreds of tanks and amphibious vehicles. That money could go into new precision missiles and upgrades for Marine infantry units he planned to place on islands before a war even started, obviating the need to get there after hostilities begin.

By HELENE COOPER

In the battle to become the country’s most senior military officer — a position inhabited at the moment by one of the most voluble of men and a frequent target of the right — it has come down to a choice between the fighter pilot and the Marine infantryman.

Gen. Mark Milley’s term as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff ends this fall, and President Joe Biden is looking at one of two men to succeed him.

In some ways, they could not be more different — from each other, and from Milley.

Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., known widely as C.Q., is the Air Force chief of staff — the first African American to rise to that

position in a military where diversity in the ranks of officers has long trailed that of the enlisted men and women. He is the leading contender, according to senior administration officials.

Brown’s colleagues say that he is firm and methodical, and that he has a proven track record in the Pacific at a time when a potential war with China tops Pentagon concerns.

Gen. David Berger, the 38th commandant of the Marine Corps, is a white four-star general, but he is thought to be the underdog.

An infantryman with combat command experience in Iraq and Afghanistan, Berger has shaken up the Corps to prepare it for the future. His innovative concepts about how to fight in the 21st century so angered the men who came before him that they took the rare step of publicly complaining about him.

Biden is on the verge of making a decision, officials said, although his pick must be confirmed by the Senate. Brown’s appointment would be historic — only the second time the country’s most senior officer was a Black man and the first time the country’s defense apparatus was run by two Black men.

The job has also not been filled by an Air Force general since 2005. During that time, there have been two Marines, a Navy admiral and two Army generals.

No matter which way Biden goes, the next chairman will be steeped in how to prepare the military for “great power conflict”—

Take the nationwide protests after George Floyd, an African American man, was beaten to death by Minneapolis police. It was June 2020, and President Donald Trump wanted to invoke the Insurrection Act to use active-duty U.S. troops to target protesters upset about the killing. Brown was days away from his confirmation vote in a Republicanled Senate to be Air Force chief of staff, but that did not stop him from posting an extraordinary five-minute video online that electrified the rank and file.

“I’m thinking about how full I am with emotion not just for George Floyd, but the many African Americans that have suffered the same fate as George Floyd,” Brown said in the video, an unusually public statement by a high-ranking military leader about a sensitive and politically charged issue.

Brown, who declined to speak for this article, as did Berger, has spoken about inclusion on other occasions. In an Air Force recruiting ad that aired during the pregame show for the NBA Finals in 2021, he came off as a take-no-prisoners fighter pilot: “When I’m flying, I put my helmet on, my visor down, my mask up,” he said, staring into the camera, to interspersing footage that could be straight out of “Top Gun,” if the movie franchise was about Air Force and not Navy pilots. “You don’t know who I am, whether I’m African American, Asian American, Hispanic, white, male or female.

“You just know I’m an American airman, kicking your butt. I’m General C.Q. Brown Jr. Come join us.”

The commercial received widespread praise on social media.

One of the first things that Berger did

“Army is huge,” Berger said at an expo in 2020. “They win our wars. The Marine Corps doesn’t win the wars. We win the battles.”

He moved fast with his plans. The Marines had 452 tanks when Berger announced the overhaul in the spring of 2020. By that December, 323 had been sent to the Army, and the rest will be gone by the end of this year.

The reaction was sharp. Outraged by what they saw as a jettisoning of the backbone of the Corps, the group of retired generals, including former Defense Secretary Jim Mattis; Joseph Dunford, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and a former White House chief of staff, John Kelly; took the unusual step of going public with their complaints in open letters, opinion pieces and interviews.

Several of the generals met with Berger to voice their concerns and later complained that he did not take their advice.

“After several unsuccessful attempts by retired senior officers to engage in a quiet dialogue with Gen. Berger, the gloves have now come off,” former Sen. Jim Webb, who was a Marine infantry officer in Vietnam, wrote in an opinion essay in The Wall Street Journal. “Twenty-two four-star generals deserved to be listened to.”

Berger’s supporters say he did listen to the retired generals; he just did not agree with them.

“Gen. Berger is looking at a different world, with different threats, and he decided that the Corps that the elders created won’t be the Corps of the future,” said Frank Hoffman, a retired Marine officer who is a fellow at the National Defense University.

General Mark Milley appears inside the House chamber before President Biden’s State of the Union address, at the Capitol in Washington on Feb. 7, 2023.

Retailers lay out a downbeat outlook as inflation squeezes low-income shoppers

By JORDY HOLMAN

As many of America’s best-known retailers reported better-thanexpected quarterly earnings this week, buoyed by shoppers who continued to spend through stubbornly high inflation, they all seemed to arrive at the same conclusion: Conditions are about to get much, much worse.

Consumer spending, which accounts for about two-thirds of the U.S. economy, is a closely watched measure, and the performance of retailers is critical to that equation. Last week, retail executives presented investors and analysts with downbeat outlooks for the first quarter and the year ahead, forecasting that sales growth, if any, will be much smaller than in years past.

When describing their forecasts, several retail executives said that they expected “softness” and “headwinds” and were planning “prudently” and “conservatively.” Many of their assessments are being shaped by the spending patterns they’re seeing from low-income shoppers, who, squeezed by inflation, are being judicious about what they’re spending money on.

Ross Stores, a discount retailer, expects sales to be flat for its fiscal year, which will end in late January, after posting a 1% increase in same-store sales for the fourth quarter. During that period in 2021, it recorded a 9% increase.

“Elevated inflation continues to impact our low- to moderate-income customer,” Adam M. Orvos, chief financial officer at Ross Stores, said last Wednesday on a call with analysts.

Kohl’s expects net sales to decline 2% to 4% for its full year ahead. Last Wednesday, the company’s new CEO, Tom Kingsbury, told analysts that he wanted to be realistic in setting expectations.

Macy’s said its comparable sales would be down 2% to 4% in the coming year, with its CEO, Jeff Gennette, noting that “discretionary spending will be under pressure across income tiers.”

Best Buy expects same-store sales to fall 3% to 6% in its full year, which ends in late January. Its chief financial officer, Matt Bilunas, said first-quarter

Shoppers outside a Target store on Black Friday in Manhattan, Nov. 25, 2022. As many of America’s best-known retailers reported better-than-expected quarterly earnings, buoyed by shoppers who continued to spend through stubbornly high inflation, they all seemed to arrive at the same conclusion: Conditions are about to get much, much worse.

sales would be most affected by pullback in consumer spending.

“What’s spooking investors and what is causing concern is that all of the outlooks are very, very soft, and people are really talking down the prospects for the coming year,” said Neil Saunders, managing director at retail consultancy GlobalData. “They’re talking about sales declines, further crunch in profits, and that really sets the tone that 2023 is going to be a very muted year for retail.”

That sentiment was echoed by retailers that cater to lower-income shoppers.

Dollar Tree, which also owns Family Dollar, expects its gross and operating margins will narrow in the first half of this year but bounce back in the second half. It still expects comparable sales to increase, just in the low- to midsingle digits.

Furniture retailer Big Lots had same-store sales fall 13% in the fourth quarter and said it expected them to be in the low- to mid-teens for the first quarter.

“The lower-household-income cus-

tomers are pinched,” said the company’s CEO, Bruce K. Thorn. “They’re going through a tough time right now.”

In a push for profitability in 2023, retailers are trying to narrow their focus. Nordstrom, which reported a drop in margins and sales volume during the holiday season, said it would shut down its operation in Canada, which counts 13 stores and about 2,500 employees. When it started opening stores there about a decade ago, the department store chain saw Canada as a first step to expanding internationally. On Thursday, its CEO, Erik Nordstrom, said that “despite our best efforts, we do not see a realistic path to profitability for the Canadian business.”

To be sure, while there are worries about the outlook, the data so far doesn’t necessarily suggest that the economy is in or hurtling toward a

downturn. And a conservative outlook isn’t an unusual tactic for retailers, said Simeon Siegel, a managing director at BMO Capital Markets.

“Generally speaking, if a management team wants to under-promise and over-deliver, they need to set a low bar at the beginning,” Siegel said. “And that’s what we’re dealing with.”

And some of the obstacles that retailers have faced over the past few years are finally clearing up. Freight costs are coming down and supply chains are easing, which would help lower operating costs.

Despite inflation pressuring its core customers’ wallets, Burlington, an off-price retailer, told investors that it expected sales for its fiscal year, which will end in February, to increase 12% to 14%, above Wall Street’s expectations. Other retailers’ financial woes are a boon for Burlington, according to its CEO, Michael B. O’Sullivan.

“For us, the biggest source of new store locations comes from other retailers closing stores,” O’Sullivan said on a call with analysts. “So many of our most productive locations were formerly Circuit City or Toys R Us or Sports Authority or Linens & Things. In other words, if there’s an increase in retail bankruptcies, then that’s going to drive real estate opportunities and new store opening opportunities for us.”

Burlington, which has about 840 stores, is planning to open up to 80 more this year.

Is the entire economy gentrifying?

By JASON KARAIAN

Big companies are prodding their customers toward fancier, and often pricier, versions of everything from Krispy Kreme doughnuts to cans of WD-40. It’s evidence of the corporate world’s new favorite buzzword: “premiumization.”

Businesses are hoping to keep the good times rolling after several years in which they seized on strong spending by consumers and rapid inflation to raise prices and pump up profit margins. Many firms are embracing offerings that cater to higher-income customers — people who are willing and able to pay more for products and services.

One sign of the trend: the notion of premiumization was raised in nearly 60 earnings calls and investor meetings over the past three weeks.

It is an indication of a changing economic backdrop. Inflation and consumer spending are expected to moderate this year, which could make it more difficult for firms to sustain large price increases without some justification.

The premiumization trend also reflects a divide in the U.S. economy. The top 40% of earners are sitting on more than $1 trillion in extra savings amassed during the early part of the pandemic. Lower-income households, on the other hand, have been burning through their savings, partly as they contend with the higher costs of the food, rent and other necessities that make up a bigger chunk of their spending.

“The pool of people willing to spend on small to large premium offers remains strong,” said David Mayer, a senior partner in the brand strategy practice of Lippincott, a consultancy.

As products grow more expensive and exclusive, big swaths of the economy are at risk of becoming gentrified, raising the possibility that poorer consumers will be increasingly underserved.

Businesses have long segmented customers, trying to push richer ones into pricier and more profitable purchases: Think of the spacious premium seats on a plane versus the cramped economy-class alternatives. But the trend picked up during the pandemic, and the lurch toward luxury is now spanning a wider array of products and services.

Executives at some companies are focusing heavily on the rich. At American Express, which reported record

spending by cardholders last quarter, “we’re constantly tightening up the cardmembers that we’re acquiring,” CEO Stephen Squeri told analysts on a recent call, describing how the firm has been steadily limiting its focus to higher-earning applicants. “That premium customer base, while not immune to economic downturns, certainly right now is spending on through.”

Other companies are emphasizing premium offerings as an alternative to discounts. Krispy Kreme spent last year attracting customers using deals — including a “Beat the Pump” discount that matched the price of a dozen glazed doughnuts to the national average price of a gallon of gas. But it is planning to do less discounting this year, an executive said on a call, aiming instead to generate “excitement around our premium specialty doughnuts,” which include fancier, higher-priced offerings around holidays.

Pushing premium products has come up in some unexpected corners of the corporate world. WD-40, the firm that makes the lubricant of the same name, has found that customers will pay more for products with enhancements, such as a can with a “smart straw” to spray the lubricant in two different ways — in either a precision stream or more of a mist. “Premiumization creates opportunities for revenue growth, grows margin expansion, and most importantly, it delights our end users,” CEO Steve Brass said on a call.

The question now is what the shift toward more premium products means for the broader economy. It could be a sign that companies are making last-ditch efforts to justify higher prices and cling to fat profits as the economic outlook darkens.

To fight inflation, the Federal Reserve has been rapidly raising interest rates, which is meant to slow economic growth and cool consumer demand. That could make it harder for businesses to continue charging more, cooling inflation and potentially cutting into profits in the process.

“Most everybody had pricing power last year,” said Scott Chronert, a strategist at Citigroup, explaining that his forecasts suggest “that is going to shift.”

And attempts to maintain profit margins by giving products a premium sheen are not guaranteed to pay off.

Six Flags, a theme park operator, recently shifted to a more premium model by raising prices and limiting discounts, which CEO Selim Bassoul described as “bold changes to our business model in order to elevate the guest experience.” It has had mixed results so far. In the nine months through September, attendance at its parks fell by 25% from the year before; spending per guest rose 22%; and in the end, profits fell by nearly 10%.

In January, The Walt Disney Co. acknowledged that it might have pushed too hard on prices at its theme parks, angering loyal customers. It revised its policies on ticketing, hotel parking, ride photos and annual passes.

But the shift toward premium products

could signal the start of a more lasting change as businesses settle into a routine of selling lower volumes for higher prices in a divided economy — a strategy that could leave poorer consumers worse off.

Take the U.S. car market. At the end of 2017, 36 models were priced below $25,000, and the share of cars that cost that much or less accounted for nearly 13% of all sales of new cars, according to an analysis by Cox Automotive. At the end of last year, only 10 models had starting prices that low, and their share of sales plunged to less than 4%. Subprime buyers are increasingly falling out of the market, in a sign that poorer people, who tend to have lower credit scores, are struggling for a foothold.

Carmakers may be cutting cheap models in part because it is hard to justify the cost of making them in an era of expensive parts and persistent labor shortages, said Jonathan Smoke, chief economist at Cox. But the expectation is that they will continue to focus on bigger-ticket models while resisting pushing overall vehicle production higher to levels that could lead to discounting even as supply bottlenecks ease.

“They’re better off selling fewer and maintaining pricing power,” Smoke said. That could spur competitors to jump into the market to provide cheaper cars, but such an adjustment is unlikely to happen quickly.

For now, car ownership could increasingly become the purview of the rich. Fewer new cars eventually translates into fewer used cars. That raises prices and, together with higher interest rates, threatens to shut poorer people out of the market.

It’s a window on what a widespread emphasis on premiumization could mean for the economy: lower production, potentially higher inflation in the short run and permanently higher prices in the long run.

But it is too early to tell whether what is happening now is widespread and persistent enough to have a meaningful economic impact, said Isabella Weber, an economist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst who has been studying profits and prices during the pandemic.

“It’s a very confusing moment,” she said.

Wall Street closes sharply higher, notches weekly gains as Treasury yields ease

Wall Street rallied on Friday to end a volatile week, as US Treasury yields eased and economic data helped investors look past the growing likelihood that the Federal Reserve will have to keep its restrictive policy in place until late in the year.

All three major US stock indexes surged more than 1%, with the tech-laden Nasdaq climbing close to 2% with a boost from interest rate sensitive megacaps. US Treasury yields eased in the wake of comments from Fed officials that calmed fears over inflation and interest rates.

“It continues to be all about the Fed and how gracefully they can slow the economy,” said David Carter, managing director at JPMorgan Private Bank in New York. “The Fed is telling markets what they want to hear but also injecting the caution that rates may need to go higher depending on the economic data.”

For the week, the indexes notched gains, with the S&P snapping a three-week losing streak and the Dow, returning to positive territory year-to-date, enjoyed its first weekly advance since late January.

The week also saw the benchmark S&P 500 break through its 50- and 200-day moving averages, two closely watched technical levels.

“It’s an indication that a shift is transpiring,” said Robert Pavlik, senior portfolio manager at Dakota Wealth in Fairfield, Connecticut. “And a lot of people are suspect of it, but they don’t want to be left behind.”

Economic data released on Friday showed steady demand for services, with purchasing managers’ indexes (PMI) from the Institute for Supply Management and S&P Global indicating that activity in the sector continues to expand even as input prices cool.

“Investors saw what they wanted in the ISM data, which was basically healthy growth with slowing prices,” Carter said, adding: “It suggests they are willing to stay on the plane as they are less worried about the landing.”

The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 387.4 points, or 1.17%, to 33,390.97, the S&P 500 gained 64.29 points, or 1.61%, to 4,045.64 and the Nasdaq Composite added 226.02 points, or 1.97%, to 11,689.01.

All 11 major sectors of the S&P 500 ended the session green, with tech and consumer discretionary enjoying the largest percentage gains.

Fourth-quarter earnings season is on the final stretch, with all but seven of the companies in the S&P 500 having reported. Results for the quarter have beaten consensus estimates 68% of the time, according to Refinitiv.

Still, on aggregate, analysts believe S&P 500 earnings will have fallen 3.2% in the fourth quarter compared to the prior year, and expect negative year-on-year numbers for the first two quarters of 2023. This would imply the S&P 500 entered a three-quarter earnings recession in the closing months of 2022, per Refinitiv.

Apple Inc jumped 3.5% after Morgan Stanley said the stock could rally more than 20% this year on a potential hardware subscription.

Broadcom Inc advanced 5.7% after the chipmaker

MOST ASSERTIVE STOCKS

PUERTO RICO STOCKS

forecast second-quarter revenue above analysts’ estimates as increased investments in AI spurred demand for chips.

Among losers, Costco Wholesale Corp slipped 2.1% on the heels of its revenue miss, as high inflation dampened consumer demand.

Chipmaker Marvell Technology Inc slid 4.7% in the wake of the company’s quarterly profit miss and disap-

COMMODITIES CURRENCY

pointing revenue forecast.

Advancing issues outnumbered declining ones on the NYSE by a 4.54-to-1 ratio; on Nasdaq, a 2.36-to-1 ratio favored advancers.

The S&P 500 posted 23 new 52-week highs and 2 new lows; the Nasdaq Composite recorded 79 new highs and 57 new lows.

In currency markets, the U.S. dollar index, measuring its value against a basket of major peers, gained 0.6% at $105.111. The index is now up about 1.5% for the year, but still down from a September high around $114.

The euro lost 0.75% and the pound dropped 0.8%, with hotter-than-expected inflation numbers adding pressure on the ECB to raise rates.

Russian forces attack Bakhmut from three directions

By MATTHEW MPOKE BIGG, VIVEK SHANKAR and ANDREW E. KRAMER

Russian forces are attacking Bakhmut from three directions in a persistent attempt to encircle Ukrainian troops, the Ukrainian military said Sunday, maintaining pressure on the battered city that has become the focal point of Moscow’s wide-ranging offensive in eastern Ukraine.

The battle for Bakhmut in Ukraine’s Donbas region began last summer, and Ukrainian soldiers have held out there even as Russian forces have gradually captured surrounding territory, nearly cutting off the city. In recent weeks, Russia has ramped up an offensive to seize the whole of Donbas, sending troops that it mobilized last fall into the fight.

In an indication of the severity of the fighting in the east of the country and its broad geographical reach, the Ukrainian military’s General Staff said Sunday that its forces had repelled 130 Russian attacks Saturday.

“The adversary continues its attempts to encircle the town of Bakhmut,” it said in a morning update, listing attacks on a string of small towns and settlements near Bakhmut.

The fighting Saturday killed two civilians in Bakhmut, the head of the regional Ukrainian military administration, Pavlo Kyrylenko, said Sunday in a post on the Telegram social messaging app. Seven civilians were wounded in the region, he added.

Before the war, Bakhmut had a population of about 70,000, but Ukrainian authorities say only a few thousand civilians remain. They have been working to evacuate those who have stayed, but the task has become harder as the roads out of the city have increasingly come under threat.

Russia has been advancing on Bakhmut from territory it already holds to the east of the city, taking towns and villages that have more recently enabled it to attack the city from the north and south.

Russia has rushed large numbers of troops to the area around Bakhmut, including many newly mobilized recruits. Ukraine has also sent reinforcements to the battle. Both sides have sustained heavy casualties.

Military experts say Russia’s offensive is being fought at five or six points along a front line that stretches about 100 miles from the town of Kreminna in Luhansk to Vuhledar in Donetsk, where Moscow suf-

fered heavy losses in a tank battle in recent weeks.

Although Russian forces have not made significant territorial gains in their renewed offensive, they have been tightening the claw around Bakhmut. Last month, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine vowed that Ukraine would not give up on Bakhmut, calling it “our fortress.” But in recent days, Ukrainian officials have been preparing the public for the possibility of a retreat.

Mick Ryan, a military analyst and retired Australian army major general who is a fellow at the Lowy Institute, a think tank based in Sydney, wrote Sunday that

Russian forces, despite heavy losses, had “slowly but surely begun to take ground in and around Bakhmut.” He said in a post on Substack that “Russia is strangling (but not yet stopping) the Ukrainian capacity to defend the city.”

That sentiment was echoed by the Institute for the Study of War, a U.S.-based research group. It said that Russian forces “will not likely be able to encircle the city soon,” but that by closing in on the roads that are the vital lifelines of supply for Ukrainian fighters, they could force Kyiv’s forces to abandon their defensive positions and withdraw.

If Russia does eventually capture

Bakhmut, it would be the culmination of one the longest-running and bloodiest battles of the war, but questions would remain about Russia’s ability to sustain its offensive and gain further ground in eastern Ukraine.

“The reality is that if the Russians do capture Bakhmut, they are seizing rubble,” Ryan said. “It is a town with minimal strategic importance, with almost no remaining infrastructure to support an occupying force. That the Russians have invested so much in its capture speaks volumes about their poor strategy in this war.”

Elsewhere on the long front line, Moscow has continued to shell civilian areas in Ukraine over the past few weeks as its offensive has ramped up, often with devastating consequences.

Russian shelling killed a woman and two children Sunday in the village of Poniativka in the Kherson region of southern Ukraine, according to regional authorities and Andriy Yermak, head of the president’s office in Ukraine. And the death toll from a missile strike on an apartment building Thursday in the city of Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine rose to 13, Ukraine’s state emergency services said Sunday on Telegram.

Ukraine is expected to launch its own offensive in the coming weeks, aiming to expand the territorial gains it made last fall in the northeast and in the south.

The ultimate goal of Ukraine’s spring push, according to a senior Ukrainian official and military experts, could be to sever the land bridge in the south of the country between Moscow’s forces in Russianoccupied Crimea and other territory that Russia has seized. But experts also caution that it is difficult to predict the precise location of Ukraine’s next drive.

Russian and Ukrainian forces have spent months preparing for their renewed offensives. As Ukraine awaits the arrival of new, sophisticated weapons from Western allies, the government in Kyiv could gain an advantage because Russia has effectively launched its offensive first, according to Michael Kofman, director of Russia studies at CNA, a research institute focused on national security.

“Ukraine is much better off receiving this Russian offensive, having the Russian military exhaust itself, then launching their major operation later in the spring perhaps, very likely, in the south in Zaporizhzhia,” he said last month on the War on the Rocks podcast.

Ukrainian soldiers at an artillery position near Bakhmut on March 3, 2023.

Ukrainian soldiers from the 93rd Brigade man an artillery position near Bakhmut, Ukraine, March 2, 2023.

Station manager faces court, but Greeks see a scapegoat for offi cial neglect

By EMMA BUBOLA

The Greek station manager accused of putting a speeding passenger train into the path of an oncoming freight train was expected in court Sunday to face manslaughter charges in the deadliest rail disaster in Greek history.

But as Greek officials described the crash as a tragic case of human error, public opinion was galvanizing against the government for years of safety neglect — not against a man who fellow rail workers and protesters say is being scapegoated.

“They want to say it’s one man’s fault,” said Antonis Bompotis, 26, who was among hundreds of protesters who gathered Friday in Larissa, a city near the crash site. “But it’s a government of murderers.”

Outside the Larissa courthouse Saturday, Vassilios Noulezas, a lawyer who represents a victim’s family as well as two survivors, said he intended to bring to court several current and former government officials.

“We are not blaming only one person,” Noulezas said. “There should not have been only one person in control.”

The 59-year-old station manager, who has not been officially identified, has privately acknowledged mistakes, according to excerpts from his statements to authorities and which have been published in the Greek news media. Radio recordings published by a Greek news website show a train driver being told to ignore a red light.

“Pass the red signal,” the station manager told the driver late Tuesday, according to the recordings.

The station manager had been due in court Saturday, but Stefanos Pantzartzidis, his lawyer, said he had requested an extension because new elements had emerged in the case. It was not immediately clear what those elements were. The station manager is now scheduled to appear in court Sunday morning, Pantzartzidis said.

Potential mistakes, though, are only part of the story. Rail workers say the traffic lights were always red because of years of technical failures. Workers were left to warn one another of oncoming trains by walkie-talkie.

“I’d cross myself every time for a

crash not to happen,” said Theodor Leventis, a train-safety supervisor of 20 years. He attended a vigil for the train’s victims in front of Larissa’s train station Friday. “I was sure it would happen,” he added.

Leventis, 65, retired two years ago after working on the same route where the crash had occurred. “They can’t say a man is responsible,” he said. “The only one responsible is the government.”

The Greek government was supposed to have installed an automated safety system nearly three years ago, but it received extensions amid a contentious contracting process. That system is intended to sound alarms and automatically stop locomotives in dangerous situations. In the days after the crash, the Greek government has not explained why that system was so behind schedule. Neither have officials with the European Union, which spent hundreds of millions of euros over the past decade to improve a rail system that, by multiple measures, is the deadliest in Europe.

Railway unions have long warned of

looming disaster. Workers said their fears started to mount after the financial crisis that devastated Greece’s economy in 2010. Railway staffing was sharply cut, and unions have said for years that their members were overworked and assigned to important stations without proper training experience.

Giorgos Apostoleris, a former station master, recalled being transferred a few years ago to Larissa on an hour’s notice. He worried then about who would be held responsible if he made a mistake. Tragedy, he said Friday, was all but inevitable. “It even took too long for an accident to happen,” he said in an interview.

Greek state news media reported that the Larissa station master had only recently been assigned to the post after six months of training.

As recently as last month, rail workers warned the government in a letter that they did not want to wait for a coming accident “to see them cry crocodile tears,” and that intervention was urgent.

“We have tried strikes for years. We

have told every government about these issues, but we have not found open ears,” said Νikolaos Tsikalakis, a railroad switchman and the president of the staff union of the Greek national railroad organization. “So we came to this tragic accident.”

Greece’s transportation minister resigned shortly after the crash, acknowledging that efforts to improve the nation’s rail-safety system had been insufficient. The two trains, carrying about 350 people, had raced toward each other for 12 minutes before colliding late Tuesday, according to the head of the federation of railway employees. At least 57 people have died.

As Greeks laid bouquets of white roses on the rail tracks, they also cursed the government. At vigils, they lit candles and murmured that they did not “believe their lies” anymore. On a bus on the plain at the foot of Mount Olympus, by the trucks that removed broken off carriages from the site of the crash, some commuters shrugged in fear.

“If they only blame a human mistake and don’t change the system,” said George Gkonelas, 53, a commuter, “it’s going to happen again.”

Outside the courthouse where the train manager is expected to appear Sunday, protesters hung signs criticizing the government for ignoring years of warnings that a rail disaster was inevitable.

“Wasn’t an accident, wasn’t a tragedy,” one banner read. “It was state negligence and an assassination.”

Part of a destroyed train carriage is removed from the site of the collision near the Vale of Tempe, a gorge near Larissa in northern Greece, on Friday, March 3, 2023.

Nations agree on language for historic treaty to protect ocean life

By CATRIN EINHORN

After two decades of planning and talks that culminated in a grueling race over the past few days in New York, a significant majority of nations agreed on language for a historic United Nations treaty that would protect ocean biodiversity.

As marine life faces threats from climate change, overfishing, the possibility of seabed mining and other dangers, the treaty would make it possible to create marine protected areas and enact other conservation measures on the “high seas,” the immense expanse of ocean covering almost half the world.

“Today the world came together to protect the ocean for the benefit of our children and grandchildren,” said Monica Medina, an assistant secretary of state. “We leave here with the ability to create protected areas in the high seas and achieve the ambitious goal of conserving 30% of the ocean by 2030.”

The open oceans of the world have no international body or agreement with a primary focus of protecting marine biodiversity. If enacted, this treaty would change that.

However, there is still a way to go before the treaty can take effect. The next major step would be for countries to formally adopt the language, which was settled Saturday night. Then, nations would need to ratify the treaty itself, which often requires legislative approval.

Here’s a look at this past week’s agreement, what it means and what might happen next.

What are the ‘high seas’?

Nations generally control the waters and sea floor that extend 200 nautical miles from their shores. Beyond that, you hit the high seas, which aren’t subject to any individual nation’s laws or control. They span almost half the planet.

The high seas are home to species up and down the food chain, from phytoplankton to great white sharks. Much of the marine life that is also found closer to shore in national waters — including species of tuna and salmon, sea turtles and whales — also spends much of their lives in the high seas. That fact underlines the need for international collaboration on ways to protect species in need of help. Animals, after all, don’t recognize national boundaries.

There’s also deep sea life, including delightfully strange species such as anglerfish (which look like creepy characters in a marine haunted house), tripod fish (which appear to stand on bony fins like stilts) and hatchetfish (which have organs that light up in rows along their bellies).

It is sometimes said that we know more about the moon than the depths of the seas.

What’s at stake there?

“Our ocean has been under pressure for decades,” António Guterres, the United Nations secretary-general, said in a statement Wednesday as he encouraged delegates to reach a deal. “We can no longer ignore the ocean emergency.”

Overfishing and climate change are leading threats to marine biodiversity. Sharks and rays that live in the open ocean, for example, have declined by more than 70% since 1970, according to a global assessment.

New threats to marine life are emerging as people look to the ocean for the mining of valuable minerals and for possible ways to do “carbon sequestration,” which involve

efforts to lock away carbon dioxide to keep it out of the atmosphere, where it is a major contributor to global warming.

Deep sea mining poses a risk to species that are particularly fragile and unknown, scientists say. Far from sunlight, these creatures grow and recover slowly.

The high seas have “probably the largest reserve of undiscovered biodiversity left on Earth,” said Lisa Speer, director of the international oceans program at the Natural Resources Defense Council. “Every time scientists go out there, they find species new to science.”

Human well-being is at stake, too, scientists say, because the health of the high seas is critical to the health of the overall ocean. Billions of people around the world rely on the ocean for food and jobs, according to the World Bank.

Oceans, which regulate climate across the planet, have blunted the effects of climate change on land by absorbing carbon dioxide and excess heat caused by burning fossil fuels. But that’s taking a toll on the oceans, making them hotter and more acidic, with less oxygen.

“The oceans are a vital part of what makes our Earth livable, not just for marine biodiversity but for all life on Earth,” said Liz Karan, director of ocean governance at the Pew Charitable Trusts.

Aren’t there rules already in place?

A patchwork of international agreements and organizations regulate the high seas, but they focus on fishing, shipping, mining and fossil fuel extraction. While they are supposed to take biodiversity into account, doing so isn’t always in their interest, environmental advocates say. Even when they do, each body tends to pay attention to its own specific effects on marine life instead of considering the cumulative effects of all pressures.

What were the sticking points?

A series of questions held up negotiations: What parts of the high seas can be considered for marine protected areas

and how will they be decided? How will environmental reviews work when companies want to mine, drill or undertake another potentially harmful activity? What happens when the new treaty bumps into the authority of another existing body, like a fishery management organization?

And one of the most stubborn: Who will profit if valuable genetic resources — say, a cure for cancer — are discovered somewhere in the high seas? Developing nations said that they had a right to share in both scientific knowledge and in possible future profits. Wealthier nations countered that, if companies weren’t able to get sufficient return on investment, they might lack the incentive to invest in marine research.

Underneath lies a frustration from developing nations that has also roiled climate and global biodiversity talks: They feel as if they shouldn’t be penalized for problems that largely result from the activities of richer nations, not poorer ones.

What happened in the end?

Just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday, after negotiating for 36 hours, participants announced a deal. “The ship has reached the shore,” said the conference’s president, Rena Lee of Singapore. She choked back tears during a long standing ovation that followed.

While countries did not formally adopt the text, they agreed not to reopen negotiations on it. Marine protected areas would be determined by a vote, delegates decided, which is a win for biodiversity because the other possibility, consensus, could allow one country to block action.

A Greenpeace statement called the treaty “a monumental win for ocean protection” and an important one for multilateralism in a world that can feel ever more divided. Laura Meller, an oceans campaigner for Greenpeace who attended the talks, said, “Protecting nature and people can triumph over geopolitics.”

Activists were outside the United Nations headquarters in New York in February during the negotiations on a United Nations treaty to protect ocean biodiversity.

China says its economy will expand about 5%, a cautious target

By KEITH BRADSHER

China’s government said it expected the country’s economy to grow “around 5%” this year, a goal that may be attainable as activity rebounds quickly but will still require considerable public borrowing and spending on roads, rail lines and other infrastructure.

Li Keqiang, who will finish his decade as the country’s premier in the coming days, announced the target Sunday at the opening of the annual session of the National People’s Congress.

“This year, it is essential to prioritize economic stability and pursue progress while ensuring stability,” Li said.

The new goal represents a sharp increase from the 3% growth that China officially reported for 2022, a year when the economy was smothered by the strict “zero-COVID” policy. But the new target is more modest than last year’s target, which had been “around 5.5%.”

“This growth target, while modest from the perspective of recent decades but moderately ambitious relative to last year, indicates the return of growth as the lodestar for economic and financial policies,” said Eswar Prasad, a Cornell University economist.

A two-month lockdown in Shanghai last spring disrupted factory production and triggered a lasting nosedive in consumer confidence and spending from which China is only now emerging. Some Western economists have suggested that last year’s actual growth may have been even lower than the 3% that the government reported.

Ever since the global financial crisis in 2008, China has

experienced a decline in the economic returns on its public spending. The days of routine annual growth of 8% to 10% are over, most economists believe.

Yet the government is still investing heavily in sparsely

China plans to raise military spending 7.2%

By KEITH BRADSHER

China’s military budget is set to rise by 7.2% this year, maintaining the country’s robust buildup of its armed forces despite slower economic growth and growing pressure on government finances as the population ages.

The projected increase in defense outlays by the Chinese central government, laid out in a budget report presented to the national legislature Sunday, means that the People’s Liberation Army’s forces will have nearly $225 billion to spend in 2023, including on new missiles, military aircraft, naval ships and other weapons. By contrast, Beijing increased the national military budget last year by 7.1%.

“We will provide support for modernization and development of the national defense and armed forces and work to strengthen our capacity in defense-related science, technology, and industry,” the Chinese budget report said.

China’s official budget might be an undercount. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute estimated that China spent nearly $300 billion on its military in 2021.

The United States, with by far the world’s biggest military budget, will increase its spending to $816.7 billion in the 2023 fiscal year.

While Washington maintains a global network of military bases and commitments, China has concentrated its armed buildup in Asia. Even with demands for more spending on hospitals, schools and welfare, many Chinese people support continued increases in military spending, said Richard A. Bitzinger, an expert on the Chinese military who formerly taught at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.

“Chinese defense spending lately has outstripped GDP, which shows it’s very, very important to them, especially because they see the world as increasingly unpredictable and unstable,” Bitzinger said in an interview. “They more and more see themselves as in an out-and-out cold war with the United States.”

China’s navy has outstripped the U.S. Navy in number of vessels. China’s leader, Xi Jinping, has indicated that he will expand the country’s array of nuclear weapons. By the end of this decade, the U.S. Department of Defense has estimated, China’s arsenal of over 400 nuclear warheads is

populated areas, after having already built highly automated ports and a world-leading network of high-speed rail lines. The new national budget, also released Sunday, called for $550 billion of special bonds to be issued by local and provincial government agencies, much of it for infrastructure.

That is a smaller increase in special bond issuance from last year than most economists expected. Weak revenues from the sale of long-term leases on state land could also prevent local governments from continuing to splurge on infrastructure.

Last month, the International Monetary Fund, in lowering its China growth forecasts for the next four years, warned that the country needed to transition from its dependence on public spending to policies that do more to spur consumer spending. That could include cutting taxes on employers’ payrolls, which could prompt employers to pay more money directly to workers.

Even a few weeks ago, growth of around 5% this year would have seemed like a lofty ambition.

Exports have slumped on faltering demand in the West. The country’s real estate sector is in a slow-motion crash: Dozens of developers are insolvent and have stopped buying land, depriving local governments of a dependable source of revenue they need to pay civil servants or invest in infrastructure.

But an abrupt end to “zero-COVID” in early December has produced at least a temporary turnaround in the economy. A report last week showed factory activity accelerating at its fastest pace in more than a decade.

likely to expand to 1,000.

The biggest focus of military planning in Beijing is Taiwan, the self-ruled island that China claims as its territory. Xi, like previous Communist Party leaders, has said he wants to peacefully unify with Taiwan but will not rule out using force. China’s Defense Ministry denounced Friday the United States’ latest proposed arms sale to Taiwan as a “severe threat to the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait.”

Shoppers in Nanjing, China, last month.

Delegates from China’s People’s Liberation Army arrived for the start of the annual National People’s Congress in Beijing on Saturday.

Florida is trying to take away the American right to speak freely

officials without fear of paying damages. The decision has even been applied by lower courts to bloggers and other speakers who make allegations about public figures.

Many conservatives, including DeSantis, have long chafed at the freedom that this decision gives to a news industry they consider to be too liberal. The new bill embodies that antagonism. It would sharply limit the definition of public figures, eliminating public employees like police officers from the category, even if they become public figures because of their actions.

public statements, they have said they want the bill to be used as a vehicle to get the Supreme Court to overturn New York Times v. Sullivan and have noted that two justices, Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch, have called on the court to reconsider that decision. The current court has repeatedly demonstrated that it can’t be counted on to respect long-term precedents that are widely supported by the public.

By THE EDITORIAL BOARD

Ahomeowner gets angry at a county commission over a zoning dispute and writes a Facebook post accusing a local buildings official of being in the pocket of developers.

A right-wing broadcaster criticizing border policies accuses the secretary of homeland security of being a traitor.

A parent upset about the removal of a gay-themed book from library shelves goes to a school board meeting and calls the board chair a bigot and a homophobe.

All three are examples of Americans engaging in clamorous but perfectly legal speech about public figures that is broadly protected by the Constitution. The Supreme Court, in a case that dates back nearly 60 years, ruled that even if that speech might be damaging or include errors, it should generally be protected against claims of libel and slander. All three would lose that protection — and be subject to ruinous defamation lawsuits — under a bill that is moving through the Florida House and is based on long-standing goals of Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The bill represents a dangerous threat to free expression in the United States, not only for the news media, but for all Americans, whatever their political beliefs. There’s still time for Florida lawmakers to reject this crude pandering and ensure that their constituents retain the right to free speech.

“This isn’t just a press issue,” said Bobby Block, executive director of Florida’s First Amendment Foundation. “This is a death-to-public-discourse bill. Everyone, even conservatives, would have to second-guess themselves whenever they open their mouths to speak or sit in front of a keyboard.”

The bill is an explicit effort to eviscerate a 1964 Supreme Court decision, The New York Times Co. v. Sullivan. This bulwark of First Amendment law requires public figures to prove a news organization engaged in what the court called “actual malice” to win a defamation case. By preventing lawsuits based on unintentional mistakes, the decision freed news organizations to pursue vigorous reporting about public

It would change the definition of actual malice to include any allegation that is “inherently improbable” — an impossibly vague standard — or that is based on what it calls an “unverified” statement by an anonymous source. In fact, it says that all anonymous statements, a crucial tool for investigative reporting, are “presumptively false” for the purposes of a defamation case. Anonymous sources were the basis for much of The Washington Post’s coverage of Watergate and the Times’ exposure of the Bush administration’s domestic eavesdropping program in 2005, among many other examples of journalism with significant impact.

Under the bill, a public figure would no longer need to show actual malice to win a defamation case if the allegation against the figure wasn’t related to the reason for the person’s public status. So if a person is publicly known for being elected president or governor, and a news organization publishes an investigation about that person’s private or business life unrelated to elected office, that report would not get the special liability protection provided by the Sullivan decision.

The bill goes much further than this attempt to hobble the press. It makes it clear that the new defamation rules would also apply to any single “utterance on the internet,” which could mean a tweet or a Facebook post written by anyone, or “any one presentation to an audience,” which could include statements made at school board hearings and other public meetings.

In a direct attack on a key aspect of free expression, it says that whenever someone is accused of discriminating against others on the basis of race, gender or sexual orientation, that accusation is automatically considered enough to sue for defamation. Any person accused of bigotry based on sexual orientation or gender identity could file a defamation lawsuit and be virtually guaranteed of winning by saying the discrimination was based on personal religious or scientific beliefs. The penalty for calling someone a bigot would be a minimum of $35,000.

DeSantis, who appears to be preparing for a 2024 presidential campaign, has been railing against press freedoms for several years in a clear appeal to likely Republican primary voters. The bill was recently introduced in the Florida House by one of his allies and has a strong chance of passage; a similar if slightly milder version was filed in the state Senate.

If enacted, the House bill would almost instantly be challenged in court, but its backers are counting on that. In

There may be room for discussion on the precise definition of “public figure,” which has been interpreted in various ways by the Supreme Court and lower courts over the past six decades. Even Justice Elena Kagan, in a 1993 journal article long before she joined the court, expressed interest in determining whether the term had been too broadly defined in the years after Sullivan, although she applauded the overall decision.

A sledgehammer bill like the one in Florida, however, wielded for transparent political reasons, would create enormous damage on the way to the high court, particularly if other states decide to copy its language. In 1964, Justice William Brennan Jr., who wrote the court’s opinion, said it was based on “the principle that debate on public issues should be uninhibited, robust and wide open.” That may well include, he wrote, “vehement, caustic and sometimes unpleasantly sharp attacks on government and public officials.” That principle has not changed through the decades, and any citizen who treasures the right to speak freely should resist politicians like DeSantis who want to silence them.

Anuncian agenda del Equipo Nacional

dijo Solá, en declaraciones escritas.

SAN JUAN – El presidente de la Federación de Béisbol de Puerto Rico (FBPR) José Quiles, el director ejecutivo Efraín Williams y el gerente general del del Equipo Nacional Joey Solá, anunciaron la agenda rumbo al Clásico Mundial de Béisbol , programado para comenzar el 11 de marzo en Miami.

“Estamos bien deseosos de tener nuestro primer encuentro como equipo en Fort Myers y continuar la preparación para la competencia. Han sido meses de múltiples gestiones, conversaciones y por fin llega el momento de estar todos juntos. El vernos y confraternizar es importante para fortalecer la unión como grupo, con un mismo propósito en mente”,

Los integrantes del combinado puertorriqueño se reportarán el día de hoy, el lunes, a la ciudad de Fort Myers en Florida, donde en horas de la noche se reunirá el cuerpo técnico con el presidente federativo, el director ejecutivo Efraín Williams y el gerente general.

La primera sesión de práctica, con la dirección de Yadier Molina, será este martes a la 1:00 de la tarde en el JetBlue Park, complejo de entrenamiento de los Medias Rojas de Boston.

“Serán dos los juegos de exhibición que tendrá Puerto Rico previo al WBC. Este miércoles se medirán a las 6:00 de la tarde, con Boston Red Sox en el JetBlue Park en Fort Myers y este jueves desde la 1:00 de la tarde, con Atlanta Braves.

Orocoveño Alexander Torres gana el medio maratón San Blas

POR CYBERNEWS

COAMO – Alexander Torres se convirtió el domingo en el primer puertorriqueño desde 1966 que gana el Medio Maratón San Blas de

Coamo.

Torres llegó a la meta en una hora con tres minutos y 59 segundos. En segundo y tercer lugar llegaron los africanos Joseph Panga y Dominic Korir.

Encuentran pierna en lugar donde buscan turista arrastrado en playa de Arecibo

ARECIBO – La Policía recuperó una pierna en la Playa Caracoles, de la carretera PR- 681 en el Barrio Islote en el pueblo de Arecibo. La extremidad será enviada al Instituto de Ciencias Forenses, para la investigación correspondiente. Agentes del Negociado de la Policía de Puerto Rico, adscritos a la División de Homicidio del Cuerpo de

Investigaciones de Arecibo, en unión al fiscal de turno continúan con la investigación. Los agentes del Negociado de Fura, Policía Estatal de Arecibo, la Policía Municipal de Arecibo, Manejo de Emergencia Municipal del área de Arecibo y la Guardia Costera, continúan con la búsqueda de la persona de la persona arrastrada por corrientes marinas en la Playa Caracoles del área de Arecibo.

‘Creed III’ review: A franchise finds new fertile ground

By MANOHLA DARGIS

The tears flow as freely as the blood in “Creed III,” the latest entry in the apparently indestructible “Rocky” saga. Once again, Adonis Creed — the tough but tender, gruff but gentle heavyweight boxer played by Michael B. Jordan — must be knocked down so that he can rise higher still. That storyline is a metaphor for life, no doubt. It’s also a perfect distillation of this franchise, which has had repeated ups and downs during its staggering 47-year run.

In 1976, the year that Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky sprinted up the long steps leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Gerald Ford was president and most of the principal cast of “Creed III” wasn’t yet born. The 2015 release of “Creed,” seventh in the series, inaugurated a narrative shift that found Rocky taking on the role of the avuncular trainer, a part he also played three years later in the sequel. Stallone isn’t in this latest chapter. Although his absence has obvious resonance, if you were expecting some kind of Hamlet-style anguish or even a hint of misty melancholia about the now-absent symbolic father, forget it. This isn’t the Sly Stallone show; it’s Jordan’s, from first scene to last.

For this installment, Jordan has taken over as both the star and the director (it’s his feature debut), twinned roles that he has assumed with seamless assurance. As entertaining as it is predictable, “Creed III” does exactly what you expect, delivering nicely balanced helpings of intimacy and spectacle, grit and glamour. It’s enjoyably old-school Hollywood in how squarely it hits all the familiar genre beats — even as it pragmatically advances the series — yet it’s also very much of the moment in how it grapples with family, friendship and the complexities of contemporary masculinity, its pleasures and its burdens.

Every boxer needs a challenger, a hard body to spar with physically and otherwise. Here, that foe is Damian, a childhood friend of Adonis’ (Donnie to his pals), a walking wound played as an adult by Jonathan Majors. (In flashback, Spence Moore II and Thaddeus James Mixson Jr. play the characters as adolescents.) After the usual recap — now retired, Donnie is fabulously successful and settled down with his family — Damian appears in a hoodie one day outside Donnie’s gym while leaning on the champ’s Rolls-Royce. It’s an image that’s more biting than any line of dialogue, all the more so because an irritated Donnie doesn’t at first recognize Damian, a scene that Jordan invests with dramatic tension and visceral unease.

That sense of disquiet remains as an enigmatically wary Donnie and an unreadable Damian share a meal and guarded laughs, and the story’s (too) many pieces begin sharply clicking into place. The movie is a continuation of Creed’s story, and a further burnishing of a new big-screen myth — one that is now refracted through Damian and his desire to get back into the ring. A Golden Gloves fighter as a teen, Damian wants to re-

claim his boxing glory and resume a trajectory cut short by prison. That’s exactly what happens, more or less, despite Donnie’s reservations, the strong objections of his business partner, Tony (Wood Harris), and some complications with Donnie’s mother, Mary-Anne (Phylicia Rashad).

Like many actors-turned-directors, Jordan does very fine work with the performers, including in his scenes with Tessa Thompson, who again plays Bianca, his lover and now wife. Her character doesn’t have all that much to do (a musician, she has given up performing), but Thompson’s charisma ensures that the character never registers like an afterthought or an appendage to the male protagonist. There’s no question that Jordan is the star, as his ample screen time affirms — the man certainly knows his best camera angles and when to strip down — but what gives the movie interest and heft is how it insistently deploys other characters to complicate and recast the classic figure of the rugged American individual.

Like “Rocky” was for Stallone, the first “Creed” served as a breakthrough for Jordan and for its director, Ryan Coogler, who have become entertainment-world juggernauts. Stallone’s presence in the earlier “Creed” movies ensured that the franchise remained tethered to his legacy, with its sequels and fraught semiotics, even if the titles no longer carried the Rocky name. Instructively, the first “Creed” ends with Donnie and Rocky side by side; the second restlessly cuts between the two, as if asking for you to choose between them. The choice has now been made, and with the shift from Rocky to Creed, the franchise has moved to fertile new ground. (Coogler and Stallone remain attached to the series as producers; Coogler also shares the story credit with the screenwrit-

ers, his brother Keegan Coogler and Zach Baylin.)

“Nobody owes nobody nothing,” Rocky says in the first film, a philosophical declaration from a white working-class striver who can seem alone even when he is with other people and whose self-reliance puts him on a continuum with other bootstrapping self-mythologizers. In “Creed III,” Donnie has his share of lonely moments, too, but the story continually puts him into play with other people, including in tender scenes of him caring for his and Bianca’s daughter (Mila Davis-Kent).

In contrast to, say, those dead-mom movies in which men take over for absent mothers, Donnie shares parenting duties. He is responsible for — and to — other people and deeply connected to a community that, however anxiously, includes Damian, who isn’t a combative stranger but an old friend, as well as a reminder of a fate escaped.

“Creed III” suffers from the customary franchise bloat, and the ending is rushed and underdeveloped. It’s also bogged down by a tragic subplot that feels expedient (you can sense the next movie being plotted out as it unfolds), but that also gives Donnie a narrative rationale to shed copious tears, which Jordan does with aching vulnerability. There’s art and craft in those tears. There is also, well, a creed. And as emotion floods this movie, Jordan lets loose a torrent of ideas about Black masculinity and community, about how the past haunts the present, the legacy of state violence, the chimera of selfreliance and the existential necessity of love. So, come for the boxing, yes — but bring plenty of hankies, too.

‘Creed III’

Rated PG-13 for gun and boxing-ring violence. Running time: 1 hour, 56 minutes. In theaters.

Michael B. Jordan reprises his role as Adonis Creed in “Creed III,” his directorial debut.

Chris Rock mocks Will Smith in live Netflix special, addressing Oscars slap

hair loss. Smith then shouted at Rock to “keep my wife’s name out your mouth,” using an expletive — a warning that Rock appeared to remember Saturday, when he referred to Pinkett Smith as “his wife.”

The unscripted Oscars moment — followed by Smith’s unapologetic acceptance speech for the best actor award minutes later — stunned viewers and prompted a scramble inside the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which administers the awards ceremony, as it tried to figure out the proper response. Smith ultimately resigned from the academy, which later barred him from attending the Oscars ceremony for a decade.

of the recorded apology, likening it to a “hostage video,” according to a report by Deadline.)

Rock has addressed the slap at times as he crisscrossed the country on his most recent comedy tour, testing out some of the material that he performed on the Netflix special.

At one point Saturday, Rock touched on what is undoubtedly a sensitive issue for Smith — his marriage — alluding to Pinkett Smith’s disclosure in 2020 that the couple had gone through a separation, during which she had been involved in what she called “an entanglement” with an R&B singer, August Alsina.

“She hurt him way more than he hurt me,” Rock said, making fun of the couple’s airing of their personal issues on Pinkett Smith’s Facebook talk show, “Red Table Talk.”

By JULIA JACOBS

Nearly a year after Will Smith slapped him onstage at the Oscars, Chris Rock joked about the explosive moment on a live Netflix show Saturday night, using the last few minutes to mock Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

“Now I watch ‘Emancipation,’ just to see him get whooped,” Rock said, referencing last year’s Civil Warera drama in which Smith plays an enslaved man who is forced to labor for the Confederacy.

In the days after Smith stunned the world with the slap, Rock, a comedian not known to shy away from controversy, was expected to quickly make his feelings about the episode known. Instead, he said at his first show after the Oscars that he was still processing what had happened, and he assured fans that there would be a time and place for him to discuss it in depth.

That time and place turned out to

be Saturday, at the Hippodrome Theater in Baltimore, in a stand-up show that was livestreamed for the rest of the world. At times, Rock made himself the target of his own jokes, noting Smith’s larger build.

“Will Smith does movies with his shirt off,” said Rock, pacing the stage in his white outfit. “You never seen me do a movie with my shirt off. If I’m in a movie getting open-heart surgery, I got on a sweater.”

The full set, titled “Selective Outrage,” addressed cancel culture, the Jan. 6, 2021 riot, abortion and Rock’s family, only addressing the slap at the very end, saying that he was “not a victim” in the situation.

“I took that hit like Pacquiao,” Rock said, referring to the former boxing champion.

At the Oscars ceremony last year, Smith climbed onstage and smacked Rock on live television shortly after the comedian made a joke about the buzzed hairstyle of Pinkett Smith, who has alopecia, a condition that leads to

Since the episode, Smith has apologized several times, saying in a video posted to YouTube last year that he was “deeply remorseful” and, addressing Rock directly, that he was ready to talk at any point.

(At a show in London with comedian Dave Chappelle, Rock was dismissive

Before closing his set, Rock addressed his onstage response to the slap that night.

“A lot of people go, ‘Chris, how come you didn’t do nothing back?’” Rock said. “’Cause I got parents, that’s why. ’Cause I was raised. I got parents. And you know what my parents taught me? Don’t fight in front of white people.”

Chris Rock made jokes in a new comedy special that touched on being slapped by Will Smith onstage at last year’s Academy Awards ceremony.

Strikes in Europe are leaving some travelers stranded. What you need to know.

By ISABELLA KWAI

Travelers to Europe are largely free from coronavirus restrictions, but they may have to contend with another challenge: navigating disruptions as airline, railway and bus workers walk off the job over low wages and labor conditions.

That was the case Feb. 17 after a full-day strike by airport employees across Germany halted airline operations countrywide, leading Lufthansa, Germany’s largest airline, to cancel more than 1,300 flights. Some travelers were stranded overnight.

“People were tired and desperate,” said Kate Kennedy, 43, who was transiting through Frankfurt to London with her family when their flight home was canceled. She, her sister, their partners and four young children spent much of the day waiting for standby flights.

Lufthansa was not much help, she said, adding, “It was such a shame to end a holiday like that.”

Travel experts are anticipating a busy travel season ahead, with bookings to many European destinations matching, and, in some cases, surpassing prepandemic numbers. But with high inflation continuing to pressure European workers who say they are underpaid and overworked, strikes are expected to hit industries from aviation to rail and urban metros.

“It’s going to be an uncertain environment and one that’s subject to a lot of disruption and inconvenience for travelers,” said Henry Harteveldt, founder of Atmosphere Research Group, a travel industry research company based in the United States.

Here’s a look at how labor disruptions could affect travelers to Europe in the weeks and months ahead.

Who is striking and where?

Several European countries are expecting widespread industrial action in the coming months.

In Britain, Border Force staff members are planning to strike March 15, along with London Underground train drivers — part of an ongoing wave of rail strikes.

In France, where anger over a plan to raise the country’s retirement age is growing, a planned mass strike March 7 involving workers in several sectors — including the country’s national railway operator, SNCF — is expected to bring many operations to a halt. The disruptions to rail services, unions have signaled, could continue.

Air traffic controllers in Spain, deadlocked over pay negotiations, have walked out on some Mondays in February and are planning more actions for Tuesdays in March at some 16 Spanish airports. Swissport, a Zurich-based company that provides ground-handling services for several major airlines, has confirmed that its unionized employees in Spain are also planning to strike in March, a situation that could extend into April.

In Italy, baggage handlers, railway staffers and some local public transport workers will be striking throughout March, according to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.

Ver.di, one union behind the strike in Germany, has said it is prepared to stage more walkouts if wage negotiations

are not resolved.

How can I plan for a strike?

The first thing to do is to check whether your trip might coincide with a planned strike, travel experts say, and avoid traveling on those dates if possible.

Strike notices are typically posted weeks in advance. Travelers should do their own research rather than wait for airlines or agents to share critical information, Harteveldt, the travel analyst, said.

Eurail BV, a company that sells European rail passes, has a list of many anticipated disruptions by country.

Also, Harteveldt said, consider flying to your destination a few days before or after a planned strike if you’re traveling for a time-sensitive event like a wedding or a funeral. And make sure the airlines and your travel adviser, if you used one, have your up-to-date contact details in the event of last-minute changes. If that happens, be prepared to accept compromises and alternative routes to your final destination.

“If you’re coming over to Europe, I would try to book as early as you can,” said Sean Tipton, a spokesman for ABTA, a trade association for British travel agents.

Rob Stern, another travel agent, offers his clients some practical tips when traveling in places where labor disruptions are a strong possibility: Visit your most important attractions at the beginning of a city visit, avoid one-day trips, and book a backup travel option in advance if you can.

Travel writer and TV host Rick Steves said: “Strikes can be alarming to travelers, but they don’t need to be stressful,” adding that because strikes are generally announced in advance, flexible travelers can find alternatives. “Ask your hotelier, talk to locals, look for signs, check online and then adapt from there.”

What am I entitled to if my flight or train is delayed?

Under European Union rules, if an airline cancels or significantly delays a flight, travelers flying into, out of or

within the bloc (with some exceptions) have the right to either a refund or a replacement flight with the original airline or with a partner airline. Those rules also apply to travelers from Britain, even though it is no longer in the European Union.

You may be entitled to reimbursement for personal costs, such as food and accommodations, if you are delayed overnight. And if your flight is delayed for three hours or more, you may also claim further compensation of between 250 euros to 600 euros, or about $265 to $635, depending on the distance of the trip.

Airlines may not be obligated to pay compensation if there are extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather conditions, or a strike by workers not related to the airline, such as air traffic controllers.

Many American travelers in Europe are unaware of their passenger rights, which include reimbursement for luggage gone astray as a result of labor actions, said Igor Mass, a founder of My Fly Right. The group, based in Germany, helps about 100,000 passengers in Europe each year prosecute airlines to get compensation for flight disruptions and lost luggage.

Mass advises travelers to document any inconveniences: Make sure you have written confirmation of flight delays and hold on to receipts incurred during disruptions so you can support your claims later.

Whether such claims are resolved quickly, however, depends on the airline. Airline call centers and travel agents may be swamped by customer requests if a strike affects operations, which could lead to long wait times to get assistance.

For flights that involve connections, Tipton suggests booking the trip as a single ticket, rather than as multiple flight bookings. Under European Union and British law, a single ticket puts the responsibility on the airline to see travelers through to their final destination.

“If you miss the first leg, it’s the airline’s problem. They still have to get you on another flight back to the U.S.,” he said.

In the event of a strike, most European railway companies will offer refunds or a chance to rebook on a later train, but it is best to check the railway operator’s website for updates. For instance, Comboios de Portugal, which operates trains in Portugal, has travel alerts on its website with information on how to seek a refund in the event of a strike

Should I get travel insurance?

If you own a credit card, check first to see if it comes with travel insurance that will cover labor disruptions.

“Find out what is covered and if there is a financial limit or any other restrictions,” Harteveldt said. After that, he added, it’s up to the individual traveler to determine if any additional travel insurance will provide peace of mind.

Some travel insurance may “cover incidental expenses, like the hotel stay you have reserved in the next city you can’t get to in time,” Stern said.

If you decide to buy extra travel insurance, check the terms and conditions. Some, for example, may not offer coverage if strike dates have already been called by the time you buy the insurance.

Lufthansa planes parked at the Frankfurt Airport on Feb. 17, the day German airport workers held a strike.

What dentists wish you knew

By JANCEE DUNN

Idon’t receive birthday cards from many of my friends, but I do from my dentist. A smiling tooth wishes me a happy birthday, along with a reminder to make an appointment.

Yet, I’ve postponed my last three visits, having somehow convinced myself that, like cleaning the gutters on my house, I’ll just put it off until there’s a problem.

This is a mistake, said Tricia Quartey-Sagaille, a spokesperson for the American Dental Association and a practicing dentist in New York City’s Brooklyn. “A lot of people see the absence of pain as an indicator that nothing is going wrong and say, ‘My teeth are fine, I don’t need to go,’” she said.

The ADA does not have a set schedule for checkups; some people need to visit the dentist once or twice a year, while others may require more trips. But what the three dentists I spoke to all agreed on is that you must go.

Often, Quartey-Sagaille pointed out, there is “no pain at all” with periodontal diseases, which are usually caused by an infection of the gums and the bones supporting the teeth and affect nearly half of adults 30 and older, potentially leading to tooth and bone loss. And the last thing you want is to have to make an emergency appointment when you’re in pain. For one thing, she said, when that happens, it is inevitably “on a weekend, or when you’re on a holiday internationally.”

OK, fine. I’m visiting my dentist next Tuesday (although I still haven’t made an appointment to clean out my gutters). Here are five other things that dentists would like us to know.

Your gums should not bleed.

As every dentist you’ve ever seen has probably said, you should floss daily. It’s true that if you slack for a while, you may see a little blood when you restart the habit, said Tien Jiang, an instructor in oral health policy and epidemiology at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. But stick with it. “It’s like starting to exercise when you haven’t in a while, and your muscles ache,” she said. “I encourage patients to push through that initial period because they need that debris to come out to get back to health.”

If your gums have been bleeding for a prolonged period of time, see your dentist, said Pernima Kumar, chair of the department of periodontology and oral medicine at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. “Would you be worried if any part of your body bled?” she asked. “Don’t normalize gum bleeding!”

Kumar also suggested that people who have gaps between their teeth use an interdental brush, a small, skinny, “absolutely fabulous” brush designed to reach the hidden places where bacteria grow.

Avoid charcoal toothpastes.

Toothpastes containing powdered activated charcoal, marketed as a natural teeth whitener, have grown in popularity in the past few years.

But a 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association concluded that while charcoal tooth-

pastes might be “fashionable,” they did not have a whitening effect. Instead, researchers found that the abrasiveness of charcoal toothpaste could cause tooth hypersensitivity; that particles of charcoal might lodge in gum pockets, causing damage and discoloration; and that few contained fluoride. (These toothpastes also leave “grey-black smears” on your towels.)

Tellingly, no charcoal toothpastes have received the ADA Seal of Acceptance, a good resource for vetting products. Instead, Jiang said, whitening toothpastes that receive the seal are good to use every day.

An electric toothbrush isn’t needed. Brush your teeth. Do it twice a day, against the gumline at a 45-degree angle, for two minutes. That’s all the ADA says you need to do when it comes to brushing. Both electric and manual toothbrushes work.

That said, if you’re an enthusiastic brusher, said Jiang, an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor to tell you to take it down a notch can be helpful, as brushing too forcefully is one of the leading causes of receding gums.

Mouth health is tied to total health.

The mouth and the rest of the body are intimately connected, but in health care, they are often treated separately, said Nezar Al-Hebshi, co-director of the Oral Microbiome Research Laboratory at Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry.

And a growing body of research shows how dental health can affect other parts of the body. Al-Hebshi listed five diseases for which there was “moderate to strong evidence” that periodontal disease might be a contributing fac-

tor, including diabetes, certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.

“So if you maintain very good oral health, you are at lower risk of developing cardiovascular complications, for example,” he said. People with diabetes who treat their gum disease may even be able to lower their blood sugar over time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Don’t get high before your exam.

In a 2022 survey of dentists, conducted by the ADA, half reported that they had treated patients who were under the influence of marijuana or another drug.

“I am seeing this in my office,” Quartey-Sagaille said. One reason patients may self-medicate, she noted, is that they are nervous. But, she explained, “You can’t consent to a treatment if you’re high. If patients have anxiety, it could make things worse, and I’m not able to numb people as effectively.” A 2019 study of cannabis users undergoing minimally invasive procedures found that one-fourth of them had needed twice the anesthesia as patients who didn’t partake.

Inquire about options for pain control, if that’s what worries you, Jiang said. For teeth that are particularly sensitive, she added, start brushing a few weeks before your appointment with a desensitizing toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate, such as Sensodyne.

And if you did take a weed gummy before you arrived, tell your dentist. (You’ll join the 67% of patients in the same ADA survey who reported that they were comfortable talking to their dentist about marijuana.) “You know, we’re not here to judge, just to provide you with the best care,” Quartey-Sagaille said.

The San Juan Daily Star

Monday, March 6, 2023 23

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE PONCE SALA SUPERIOR BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. AUGUSTO ORENGO RUIZ, SYLVIA ROMÁN COLÓN Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: PO2022CV01039.

Sala: 406. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El Alguacil que suscribe por la presente anuncia y hace constar que en cumplimiento de la Sentencia dictada el 2 de septiembre de 2022, la Orden de Ejecución de Sentencia del 31 de octubre de 2022 y el Mandamiento de Ejecución del 10 de noviembre de 2022 en el caso de epígrafe, procederé a vender el día 4 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 3:15 DE LA TARDE, en mi oficina, localizada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Centro Judicial de Ponce, Sala Superior, en 2150 Ave. Santiago de los Caballeros, Ponce, Puerto Rico, al mejor postor en pago de contado y en moneda de los Estados Unidos de América, cheque de gerente o giro postal, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada sobre la siguiente propiedad: URBANA: PROPIEDAD HORIZONTAL: Apartamento residencial número 702 del Condominio Torre de Playa Santa, localizado en el Sector Salinas Providencia del Barrio Montalva del Municipio de Guánica, Puerto Rico. Con forma de abanico, está construido en hormigón armado y bloques de concreto y se encuentra ubicado en el octavo nivel o quinto piso residencial del edificio.

Consta de una planta y tiene su entrada por su lindero Sureste, de donde sale a un pasillo común que da acceso a los elevadores y escaleras comunes del edificio y de ahí a la vía pública. Sus linderos son los siguientes: por el NORESTE, en 29’ lineales equivalentes a 8.84 metros lineales con pared común medianera que lo separa de apartamento número 703; por el

SUR, en 29’ lineales equivalentes a 8.84 metros lineales con pared común medianera que lo separa de apartamento número 701; por el SURESTE, por donde tiene su puerta de entrada en dos alineaciones que suman 19’2” lineales equivalentes a 5.89 metros lineales con pared medianera que lo separa del pasillo comunal que sirve este piso; y por el OESTE, en dos alineaciones que suman 43’ 6” pulgadas lineales, equivalentes a 13.26 metros lineales, con pared exterior común del edificio y con el parapeto de su balcón que miran hacia la Urbanización Playa del Caribe.

Este apartamento tiene un área superficial de 861.96 pies cuadrados, equivalentes a 80.08 metros cuadrados y consta de un dormitorio principal con walk-in-closet y baño, otro dormitorio con su closet, un baño adicional en el área del pasillo, sala-comedor, cocina, área de lavandería y balcón. A este apartamento le ha sido asignado como elemento común limitado al mismo el uso del espacio o área de estacionamiento marcado con el número 56 en el plano de Condominio.

Le ha sido asignado además una participación en los gastos e ingresos del condominio y en la titularidad de sus elementos comunes equivalentes al 1.8573% y una participación de 1.3156% en los elementos comunes limitados del Condominio. Inscrita al folio 202 del tomo 199 de Guánica, Finca Número 6745, Registro de la Propiedad de San Germán. La escritura de hipoteca consta inscrita al folio 202 vuelto del tomo 199 de Guánica, Finca Número 6745, Registro de la Propiedad de San Germán. Inscripción cuarta. Dirección

Física: TORRES DE PLAYA SANTA, APT. 702, GUÁNICA, PR 00653. Número de Catastro: 59-428-087-134-01-027. El tipo mínimo para la primera subasta será de $252,000.00. De no haber adjudicación en la primera subasta se celebrará una

SEGUNDA SUBASTA, el día 11 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 3:15 DE LA TARDE en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será de dos terceras partes del tipo mínimo fijado en la primera subasta, o sea, $168,000.00.

De no haber adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA, el día 18 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 3:15 DE LA TARDE en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será la mitad del precio pactado, o sea, $126,000.00. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se adjudicará la finca

a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si ésta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta es mayor. Dicho remate se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a la demandante el importe de la Sentencia por la suma de $196,025.99 de principal, más intereses sobre dicha suma al 7% anual desde el 1 de diciembre de 2019 hasta su completo pago, más $1,844.26 de recargos acumulados, los cuales continuarán en aumento hasta el saldo total de la deuda, más la cantidad estipulada de $25,200.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, así como cualquier otra suma que contenga el contrato del préstamo. Surge del Estudio de Título Registral que sobre esta propiedad pesa el siguiente gravamen posterior a la hipoteca que por la presente se pretende ejecutar:

Bitácora: Asiento 2022-063683SG01, el 15 de mayo de 2022, Demanda de fecha 26 de abril de 2022, Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Ponce, en el Caso Civil Número PO2022CV01039, seguido por Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Vs. Augusto Orengo Ruiz y su esposa, Sylvia Román Colón, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca, en la que se reclama el pago de hipoteca con un balance de $196,025.99 y otras cantidades, o la venta en pública subasta de la propiedad. Pendiente de anotación. Se notifica al acreedor posterior o a su sucesor o cesionario en derecho para que comparezca a proteger su derecho si así lo desea. Se les advierte a los interesados que todos los documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como los de Subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados, durante horas laborables, en el expediente del caso que obra en los archivos de la Secretaría del Tribunal, bajo el número de epígrafe y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general en Puerto Rico por espacio de dos semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana; y para su fijación en los sitios públicos requeridos por ley. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes; entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los

March 6, 2023 24

mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate y que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores tal como lo expresa la Ley Núm. 210-2015. Y para el conocimiento de los demandados, de los acreedores posteriores, de los licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, EXPIDO para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes, el presente Aviso de Pública Subasta en Ponce, Puerto Rico, hoy 1 de febrero de 2023. MIGUEL A. TORRES

AYALA, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #560, ALGUACIL DEL TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, CENTRO JUDICIAL DE PONCE, SALA SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. EDDIE

RIVERA RODRÍGUEZ

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: BY2022CV03724. (701). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO, EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El Alguacil que suscribe por la presente anuncia y hace constar que en cumplimiento de la Sentencia en Rebeldía dictada el 15 de noviembre de 2022, la Orden de Ejecución de Sentencia del 1 de febrero de 2023 y el Mandamiento de Ejecución del 1 de febrero de 2023 en el caso de epígrafe, procederé a vender el día 19 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA, en el Cuarto Piso de la Oficina del Alguacil de Subastas, localizada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Centro Judicial de Bayamón, Sala Superior, ubicado en la Carretera Número Dos (#2), Kilómetro 10.4, Esquina Esteban Padilla, Bayamón, Puerto Rico, al mejor postor en pago de contado y en moneda de los Estados Unidos de América, cheque de gerente o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal; todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada sobre la siguiente propiedad: URBANA: Solar Número Treinta y Ocho (38) del Bloque AQ radicado en la Urbanización Reparto Valencia situada en el Barrio Hato Tejas de

Monday,

Bayamón, Puerto Rico, con un área de 223.52 metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE: en una distancia de 32.99 metros con el Solar Número Treinta y Nueve (39); por el SUR: en una distancia de 30.96 metros con el Solar Número Treinta y Siete (37); por el ESTE: en 7.35 metros con la Avenida Los Dominicos; y por el OESTE: en 1.60 metros y en un arco con una distancia de 5.41 metros con la Calle Número Diecisiete guion A (17-A). Inscrita al folio 106 del tomo 1042 de Bayamón, Finca 46786, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección I. La escritura de hipoteca consta inscrita al folio 185 del tomo 1819 de Bayamón, Finca 46786, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección I. Inscripción novena. (9na). DIRECCIÓN FÍSICA: URB. REPARTO VALENCIA, AQ38 CALLE 17 BAYAMÓN PR 00959-3731. Número de catastro: 085-011-144-38-001. El tipo mínimo para la primera subasta será de $75,000.00. De no haber adjudicación en la primera subasta se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA, el 26 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será de dos terceras partes del tipo mínimo fijado en la primera subasta, o sea, $50,000.00. De no haber adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el 3 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será la mitad del precio pactado, o sea, $37,500.00. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se adjudicará la finca a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si ésta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si esta es mayor. Dicho remate se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a la demandante el importe de la Sentencia por la suma de $49,633.91 de principal, más intereses sobre dicha suma al 6.5% anual desde el 1 de enero de 2022 hasta su completo pago, más $281.89 de recargos acumulados los cuales continuarán en aumento hasta el saldo total de la deuda, más la cantidad estipulada de $7,500.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, así como cualquier otra suma que contenga el contrato del préstamo. Surge del Estudio de Título Registral que sobre esta propiedad pesan los siguientes gravámenes poste-

riores que afectan la propiedad que se pretende ejecutar: a.

Hipoteca: Constituida por Eddie Rivera Rodríguez, (soltero) en garantía a un pagaré a favor de AUTORIDAD PARA EL FINANCIAMIENTO DE LA VIVIENDA DE PUERTO RICO, o a su orden, por la suma de $15,000.00 sin intereses y vencedero el 29 de noviembre de 2012, según consta de la Escritura #763, otorgada en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, el 29 de noviembre de 2004, ante el notario Luis O. Cintrón Fonalledas, inscrita al folio 185 vuelto del tomo 1819 de Bayamón, finca #46786. Inscripción Décima (10ma).

b. Aviso de Demanda: Pleito seguido por Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Vs. Eddie Rivera Rodríguez, ante el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Bayamón, en el Caso Civil Número BY2022CV03724, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca, en la que se reclama el pago de hipoteca, con un balance de $49,633.91 y otras cantidades, según Demanda de fecha 21 de julio de 2022. Anotada al Tomo Karibe de Bayamón. Anotación A, el 25 de agosto de 2022. Se les advierte a los interesados que todos los documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como los de Subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados, durante horas laborables, en el expediente del caso que obra en los archivos de la Secretaría del Tribunal, bajo el número de epígrafe y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general en Puerto Rico por espacio de dos semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana; y para su fijación en los sitios públicos requeridos por ley. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes; entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate y que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores, tal como lo expresa la Ley Núm. 210-2015. Y para el conocimiento de los demandados, de los acreedores posteriores, de los licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, EXPIDO para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes, el presente Aviso de Pública Subasta en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy 17 de febre-

The San Juan Daily Star

ro de 2023. EDGARDO ELÍAS

VARGAS SANTANA, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #193, ALGUACIL, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN, SALA SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE HUMACAO

FIRSTBANK

PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. ESDRAS SANTIAGO

MERCED, JUANA

ROSA MOCTEZUMA

VELAZQUEZ

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: HU2018CV01286.

Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA

Y COBRO DE DINERO. ANUNCIO DE SUBASTA. El suscribiente, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia de Puerto Rico, Sala de Humacao, a los demandados de epígrafe y al público en general hace saber que venderá en pública subasta en la Oficina de Alguaciles, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Humacao, al mejor postor, en moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América en efectivo, cheque certificado, o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, el derecho que tenga la parte demandada en el inmueble que se relaciona más adelante para pagar la SENTENCIA por $65,976.93 de balance principal, los intereses adeudados sobre dicho principal y computados al 4.50% anual hasta su total pago y completo pago desde el primero de abril de abril de 2017; cargos por demora devengados, más la suma estipulada para honorarios de abogado pactada en la escritura de hipoteca y cualesquiera otras sumas que por cualesquiera concepto legal se devenguen hasta el día de la subasta. La propiedad a venderse en pública subasta se describe como sigue: RÚSTICA: Predio de terreno con un área superficial de QUINIENTOS SETENTA Y SEIS PUNTO TRESCIENTOS SETENTA Y SEIS (576.376) METROS CUADRADOS. En lindes por el NORTE, con la parcela número ciento cuarenta ocho guion B (148-B) a segregarse en veinticinco (25.20) metros; por el SUR, con la parcela número ciento cuarenta y ocho guion D (148D) a segregarse en veintisiete punto cuarenta y dos (27.42) metros; por el ESTE, con la

calle número dos (2) en veintitrés punto once (23.11) metros; y por el OESTE, con la parcela número ciento cuarenta y ocho guion C (148-C) a segregarse en veintiuno punto cuarenta y uno (21.41) metros. Finca 14,545, inscrita al folio 10 del tomo 232 de Yabucoa, Registro de la Propiedad de Humacao. Dirección Física: 148 A-2 St., Comm. Martorell, Yabucoa, PR 00767. La PRIMERA SUBASTA se llevará a cabo el día 9 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA y servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma la suma de $68,850.00 sin admitirse oferta inferior. En el caso de que el inmueble a ser subastado no fuera adjudicado en la primera subasta, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 16 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y el precio mínimo para esta segunda subasta será el de dos terceras partes del precio mínimo establecido para la primera subasta, o a sea la suma de $45,900.00. Si tampoco hubiera remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 23 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y el tipo mínimo para esta tercera subasta será la mitad del precio establecido para la primera subasta, o sea, la suma de $34,425.00. El mejor postor deberá pagar el importe de su oferta en efecto, cheque certificado o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse el inmueble al acreedor hipotecario dentro de los diez días siguientes a la fecha de la última subasta, si así lo estimase conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada conforme a la sentencia, si ésta fuera igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta y abonándose dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta fuera mayor. Se avisa a cualquier licitador que la propiedad queda sujeta al gravamen del Estado Libre Asociado y CRIM sobre la propiedad inmueble por contribuciones adeudadas y que el pago de dichas contribuciones es la responsabilidad del licitador. Que se entenderá por todo licitador acepte como suficiente la titulación y que los cargos y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes en entendiéndose que el rematador los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse su extinción al

consta de una sala-comedor, las escaleras interiores del apartamento, las cuales dan acceso al segundo (2ndo) nivel del apartamento de un pasillo principal en el cual están localizados la cocina, lavandería, un closet, un baño, dos (2) cuartos con sus respectivos closets y un dormitorio principal con baño y walk in closet. Su segundo (2ndo) nivel consta de un recibidor, el cual da acceso a las escaleras interiores del apartamento, las cuales conducen al primer (1er) nivel del apartamento, de un family room y una terraza. Le corresponde a este apartamento dos (2) espacios de estacionamiento. Este apartamento tiene una participación de uno punto ocho cuatro cero seis nueve cuatro nueve por ciento (1.8406949%) en los elementos comunes del Condominio. Consta inscrita al folio 101 del tomo 1085 de Monacillos, finca número #26,936, Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Sección Tercera de San Juan. La propiedad objeto de ejecución está localizada en la siguiente dirección: Condominio College Park, Apartamento B-2302, San Juan, P.R. 00926. Según figura en el Estudio de título, la propiedad objeto de ejecución está gravada al siguiente Gravamen posterior a la inscripción del crédito ejecutante: 1. Declaración de Estorbo público por el Municipio Autónomo de San Juan, reclamando el pago de $5,956.00, por concepto de multas y gastos incurridos, según Resolución de fecha 19 de enero de 2022, emitida por la Oficina de Permisos del Municipio Autónomo de San Juan, presentada el día 5 de junio de 2022 y anotada el día 23 de junio de 2022, e inscrita al tomo Karibe de Monacillos, finca número 26,936, Anotación B. 2. Embargo Federal contra Javier Santiago Santos, seguro social xxx-xx-4654, dirección P.O. Box 9688 San Juan Puerto Rico 00908-0688, por la suma de $37,030.19, según Certificación del día 20 de julio de 2017, notificación número 271302017, presentado el día 31 de agosto de 2017, anotado al Sistema Karibe, Asiento 2017-008614FED. 3. Sentencia del día 10 de febrero de 2010, expedida en el Tribunal General de Justicia, Centro Judicial de San Juan, Sala Superficial, en el Caso Bajo Regla 60, anotado el día 9 de septiembre de 2011, seguido por vecinos Unidos de C.P Inc., versus Javier Santiago Santos y otros, por la suma de $1,797.35, anotado al folio 37, Demanda 89, Libro de Sentencias número 2. Se le notifica a los acreedores posteriores anteriormente identificados para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les convenga o satisfacer antes del remate el impor-

te del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando entonces subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. Se informa que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravamen posterior, una vez sea otorgada la escritura de venta judicial y obtenida la Orden y Mandamiento de cancelación de gravamen posterior. (Art. 51, Ley 2102015). En relación a la finca a subastarse, se establece como tipo mínimo de licitación en la Primera Subasta la suma de $280,000.00, según acordado entre las partes en el precio pactado en la Escritura de Hipoteca #506, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 21 de agosto de 2006, ante el notario Carlos Omar González Dávila, e inscrita al folio 101 del tomo 1085 de Monacillos, finca número 26,436, inscripción 2da.

La PRIMERA SUBASTA, se llevará a cabo el día 20 DE MARZO DE 2023 A LAS 10:00

DE LA MAÑANA, en mis oficinas sitas en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de San Juan, el tipo mínimo para la primera subasta es la suma de $280,000.00. Si la primera subasta del inmueble no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 28 DE MARZO DE 2023 A LAS 10:00

DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo sitio y servirá de tipo mínimo las dos terceras partes del precio pactada para la primera subasta, o sea, la suma de $186,666.67. Si la segunda subasta no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una

TERCERA SUBASTA el día 4

DE ABRIL DE 2023 A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar y regirá como tipo mínimo de la tercera subasta la mitad del precio pactado para la primera, o sea, la suma de $140,000.00. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo, para con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor, a saber: Suma Principal de $244,762.23, la cual se desglosa a continuación: $238,671.66, con intereses a 7.875% anual, desde el 1ro de noviembre de 2017, hasta el presente y los que se continúen acumulando hasta su total y completo pago, la suma principal de $6,090.57, como pago diferido y la cual no genera intereses, más los cargos por demora que se corresponden a los plazos atrasados desde la fecha anteriormente indicada a razón de la tasa pactada de 5% de cualquier pago que éste en mora por más de quince (15) días desde la fecha de su vencimiento, más una suma equivalente a $28,000.00, por concepto de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otra suma que resulte

por cualesquiera otros adelantos que se hayan hecho la demandante, en virtud de las disposiciones de la escritura de hipoteca y del Pagaré hipotecario. Para más información, a las personas interesadas se les notifica que los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal, durante las horas laborables. Este EDICTO DE SUBASTA, se publicará en los lugares públicos correspondientes y en un periódico de circulación general en la jurisdicción de Puerto Rico. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los referentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes. Se entenderá que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se procederá a otorgar la correspondiente Escritura de Venta Judicial y el Alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días, de conformidad con las disposiciones de Ley. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Expedido en San Juan, Puerto Rico, a 9 de febrero de 2023. Erik F Osuna Acevedo, Alguacil Auxiliar.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAGUAS

FIRSTBANK PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. SAMUEL AGOSTO

SANTIAGO, SU ESPOSA JUANA RODRÍGUEZ RODRÍGUEZ Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES

COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: CG2019CV00741.

Salón Núm.: (703). Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA - IN REM. EDICTO DE SUBASTA.

ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: SAMUEL AGOSTO

SANTIAGO, SU ESPOSA

JUANA RODRÍGUEZ RODRÍGUEZ Y LA

SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA

POR

AMBOS:

Y AL PÚBLICO EN GENERAL:

El Alguacil que suscribe, certifica y hace constar que en cumplimiento de Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que me ha sido dirigido por la Secretaría del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Caguas, procederé a vender en pública subasta y al mejor postor, por separado, de contado y por moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América. Todo pago recibido por el (la) Alguacil por concepto de subastas será en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del (de la) Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia. Todo derecho, título, participación e interés que le corresponda a la parte demandada o cualquiera de ellos en el inmueble hipotecado objeto de ejecución que se describe a continuación: RÚSTICA: Solar marcado con el número doscientos veinte y cinco (#225) en el plano de parcelación de la Comunidad Rural Santana del Barrio Ceiba Norte del término municipal de Juncos, Puerto Rico, con una cabida superficial de cero cuerdas con novecientos diez y seis diezmilésimas de otra, equivalente a trescientos sesenta punto cero cero metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE, con la parcela número doscientos veinte y cuatro (#224) de la comunidad; por el SUR, con la parcela número doscientos veinte y seis (#226) de la comunidad; por el ESTE, con la parcela número doscientos veinte y uno (#221) de la comunidad; y por el OESTE, con la calle número diez y seis (#16) de la comunidad. Consta inscrita al folio 95 del tomo 146 de Juncos, finca número #5,549, Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Sección Segunda de Caguas. La propiedad objeto de ejecución está localizada en la siguiente dirección: #225, Calle #16, Comunidad Santana II, Barrio Ceiba Norte, Juncos, Puerto Rico 00777. Se informa que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravamen posterior, una vez sea otorgada la escritura de venta judicial y obtenida la Orden y Mandamiento de cancelación de gravamen posterior. (Art. 51, Ley 210-2015). En relación a la finca a subastarse, se establece como tipo mínimo de licitación en la Primera Subasta la suma de $75,244.00, con intereses al 4.00% anual, vencedero el día 1 de agosto del 2044, constituida mediante la escritura número 336, otorgada en Caguas, Puerto Rico, el día 18 de julio del 2014, ante el notario Jesús A. Ledesma Amador, e inscrita al tomo Ka-

ribe de Juncos, finca número 5,549, inscripción 4ta. La PRIMERA SUBASTA, se llevará a cabo el día 21 DE MARZO DE 2023 A LAS 10:45 DE LA MAÑANA, en mis oficinas sitas en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Caguas, el tipo mínimo para la primera subasta es la suma de $75,244.00. Si la primera subasta del inmueble no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 29 DE MARZO DE 2023 A LAS 10:45 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo sitio y servirá de tipo mínimo las dos terceras partes del precio pactada para la primera subasta, o sea, la suma de $50,162.66. Si la segunda subasta no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 5 DE ABRIL DE 2023 A LAS 10:45 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar y regirá como tipo mínimo de la tercera subasta la mitad del precio pactado para la primera, o sea, la suma de $37,622.00. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo, para con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor, a saber: Suma Principal de $71,347.70 con intereses a 4.00% anual, desde el 1 de junio de 2017, hasta el presente y los que se continúen acumulando hasta su total y completo pago, más los cargos por demora que se corresponden a los plazos atrasados desde la fecha anteriormente indicada a razón de la tasa pactada de 4% de cualquier pago que éste en mora por más de quince (15) días desde la fecha de su vencimiento, más una suma equivalente a $7,524.40, por concepto de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otra suma que resulte por cualesquiera otros adelantos que se hayan hecho la demandante, en virtud de las disposiciones de la escritura de hipoteca y del Pagaré hipotecario. Para más información, a las personas interesadas se les notifica que los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal, durante las horas laborables. Este EDICTO DE SUBASTA, se publicará en los lugares públicos correspondientes y en un periódico de circulación general en la jurisdicción de Puerto Rico. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los referentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes. Se entenderá, que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se procederá a otorgar

la correspondiente Escritura de Venta Judicial y el Alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días, de conformidad con las disposiciones de Ley. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Se informa que la propiedad objeto de ejecución se adquiere libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Expedido en Caguas, Puerto Rico, a 16 de febrero de 2023. ÁNGEL GÓMEZ GÓMEZ, ALGUACIL PLACA #593. ***

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE CAGUAS

ROBERTO ROSA ROSA, EDITH NEREIDA RÍOS RIVERA Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Demandante Vs. BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO, THE WORLD MORTGAGE CORPORATION, FULANO DE TAL

Demandadas

Civil Núm.: CG2022CV03893.

Salón: 801. Sobre: CANCELACIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO. EDICTO. EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO:

A: THE WORLD MORTGAGE CORPORATION

Por la presente se le notifica que se ha radicado en la Secretaría de este Tribunal una Demanda en solicitud de cancelación de pagaré extraviado en contra los demandados Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, The World Mortgage Corporation y Fulano de Tal. En la demanda se solicita la cancelación del pagaré que suscribieron los demandantes por la suma principal de $30,800 bajo una tasa de interés anual de un 9.00%, vencedero el 1 de octubre de 2008 bajo afftdávit número 7984, a favor de The World Mortgage Corporation. El pagaré garantiza el préstamo hipotecario que grava el solar 6-F inscrito a la Finca 22,644 del Registro de la Propiedad, Demarcación

CA0101 - Caguas del sistema

Karibe, sección primera de Caguas, inscripción cuarta. Como remedio se solicita la cancelación del pagaré y la garantía hipotecaria que constan en el

Registro de la Propiedad, Sección I de Caguas, gravando la propiedad ante descrita. Representa a la parte demandante el Lcdo. Héctor L. Claudio Rosario, 167 Calle Pedro Flores Urb. Monticielo, Caguas, Puerto Rico 00725; número de teléfono 787-635-1220 / Telefax: 1-267-392-3959; dirección de correo electrónico, bufetehectorclaudio@gmail.com. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Se le advierte que de no contestar la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de éste Edicto, radicando el original de la contestación ante el Tribunal, con copia a la parte demandante, se le anotará la rebeldía y se dictará sentencia concediendo el remedio solicitado sin más citarle ni oírle. Expedido bajo mi firma, y sello de este Tribunal, en Caguas, Puerto Rico, a 28 de febrero de 2023. LISILDA MARTÍNEZ AGOTO, SECRETARIA. SANDRA J. TRINIDAD CAÑUELAS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOT ICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE MAYAGÜEZ

ORIENTAL BANK

Demandante V. SUCESION DE IRMA

IRIZARRY VARGAS COMPUESTA POR SUS HEREDEROS

CONOCIDOS SANTOS

TOMAS OLIVENCIA

SOTO, POR SI; DAMIAN VARGAS IRIZARRY Y NOEL VARGAS

IRIZARRY; FULANO DE TAL Y SUTANA DE TAL COMO HEREDEROS

DESCONOCIDOS Y/O

PARTES CON INTERES EN LA SUCESION

Demandado(a)

Civil: MZ2022CV00199. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA

POR EDICTO.

A: SUCESION DE IRMA

IRIZARRY VARGAS

COMPUESTA POR

SUS HEREDEROS

CONOCIDOS SANTOS

TOMAS OLIVENCIA

SOTO, POR SI; DAMIAN VARGAS IRIZARRY

Y NOEL VARGAS

IRIZARRY;

FULANO DE TAL Y SUTANA DE TAL

COMO HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS Y/O PARTES CON INTERES EN LA SUCESION. (Nombre de las partes a las que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 9 de febrero de 2023, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 27 de febrero de 2023. En Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, el 27 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. NORMA G. SANTANA IRIZARRY, SECRETARIA. NILDA TORRES ACEVEDO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR. LEGAL NOTICE ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante Vs. MARIA TERESA

SANCHEZ ACOSTA

Demandado (a) Civil Núm.: SJ2022CV03834. Sala: 508. Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA (IN REM). NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

A: MARIA TERESA

SANCHEZ ACOSTA. EL SECRETARIO (A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 24 de febrero de 2023, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los diez (10) días siguientes a su

notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 27 de febrero de 2023. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, el 27 de febrero de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. MARTHA ALMODÓVAR CABRERA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

MMG I PR CDGY, LLC

Parte Demandante Vs. LA SUCESIÓN DE JORGE GARCÍA ZENON, COMPUESTA POR SHARLEEN GARCÍA

FIGUEROA, AILEEN GARCÍA FIGUEROA, KAROLEE GARCÍA, FIGUEROA, YAMIL LIONEL GARCÍA

FIGUEROA, RHETT LEE GARCÍA FIGUEROA Y EVA FIGUEROA SOLANO, EN LO QUE CORRESPONDE A LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; CENTRO DE RECAUDAOÓN DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES (“CRIM”)

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: SJ2022CV06822.

Sala: 604. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. INTERPELACIÓN. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: RHETT LEE GARCÍA FIGUEROA.

Examinada la Moción presentada por la parte demandante, y examinados los autos del caso, el Tribunal declara HA LUGAR la solicitud de interpelación judicial de la parte demandante a los herederos, RHETT LEE

GARCÍA FIGUEROA, conforme lo dispuesto en el Artículo 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico, 31 L.P.R.A. sec. 2787. Se ORDENA a RHETT LEE GARCÍA FlGUEROA, a que dentro del término legal de treinta (30) días contados a partir de la fecha de la notificación de

la presente Orden, ACEPTE O REPUDIE la participación que le corresponda en la herencia del referido causante. Se les APERCIBE a los herederos antes mencionados que de no expresarse dentro de ese término de treinta (30) días en torno a su aceptación o repudiación de herencia, la herencia se tendrá por aceptada. También se les APERCIBE a los herederos antes mencionados que luego del transcurso del término de treinta (30) días antes señalado contados a partir de la fecha de la notificación de la presente Orden, se presumirá que han aceptado la herencia del referido causante y por consiguiente la propiedad objeto de este caso responde por las cargas de dicha herencia conforme a lo dispuesto en el Artículo 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico, 31

L.P.R.A. sec. 2785 y su jurisprudencia interpretativa en Banco Comercial de P.R v. García, 51

D.P.R. 735 (1937); B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005). Expedido bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, a 27 de febrero de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA. FERNÁNDEZ DEL VALLE, LUZ E., SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE BAYAMÓN ISLAND PORTFOLIO SERVICES, LLC. COMO

AGENTE GESTOR DE ACE ONE FUNDING, LLC.

Demandante Vs. JOSEFINA

LAUREANO RIVERA

Demandado Civil Núm.: TB2022CV00370. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: JOSEFINA LAUREANO

RIVERA - HC 2 BOX 6171, PEÑUELAS P.R. 00624.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza y requiere para que conteste la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este Edicto. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), la cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired. ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido

término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda o cualquier otro sin más citarle ni oírle, si el tribunal en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. El sistema SUMAC notificará copia a los abogados de la parte demandante, la Lcda. Natalie Bonaparte cuyas direcciones son: P.O. Box 71418 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-8518, teléfono (787) 993-3731 a la dirección natalie.bonaparte@ orf-law.com, edwin.serrano@ orf-law.com y a la dirección notificaciones@orf-law.com. EX-

TENDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA y el sello del Tribunal, en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de febrero de 2023. En Bayamón, Puerto Rico, el 01 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA

SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. LUREIMY ALICEA GONZÁLEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE AGUADILLA ISLAND PORTFOLIO SERVICES, LLC. COMO

AGENTE GESTOR DE ACE ONE FUNDING, LLC.

Demandante Vs. YOLANDA DENIZARD ROMAN

Demandado

Civil Núm.: AG2021CV00717.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: YOLANDA DENIZARD ROMANURB. VISTA VERDE 768

A, CALLE 24, AGUADILLA P.R. 00603-0000.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza y requiere para que conteste la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este Edicto. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), la cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired. ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda o cualquier otro sin más citarle ni

oírle, si el tribunal en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. El sistema SUMAC notificará copia a los abogados de la parte demandante, la Lcda. Natalie Bonaparte cuyas direcciones son: P.O. Box 71418 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-8518, teléfono (787) 993-3731 a la dirección natalie.bonaparte@ orf-law.com, edwin.serrano@ orf-law.com y a la dirección notificaciones@orf-law.com. EXTENDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA y el sello del Tribunal, en Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, hoy día 31 de enero 2023. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, el 31 de enero de 2023. SARAHÍ REYES PÉREZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE HUMACAO SALA SUPERIOR BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. SUCESIÓN DE NICOLÁS AGOSTO ÁLVAREZ COMPUESTA POR: CARMEN D. AGOSTO SERRANO, CARMEN M. AGOSTO SERRANO, CARLOS AGOSTO SERRANO, NICOLÁS AGOSTO SERRANO Y MENGANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO; PAULA SERRANO RAMOS POR SÍ Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; DEPARTAMENTO DE HACIENDA POR CONDUCTO DE LA DIVISIÓN DE CAUDALES RELICTOS; CENTRO DE RECAUDACIÓN DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES (CRIM)

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: HU2019CV00712.

Sala: 206. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El Alguacil que suscribe por la presente anuncia y hace constar que en cumplimiento de la Sentencia en Rebeldía dictada el 22 de enero de 2020, la Orden de Ejecución de Sentencia Enmendada del 20 de enero de 2023 y el Mandamiento de Ejecución Enmendado del 24 de enero del 2023 en el caso de epígrafe, procederé a vender el día 10 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en

mi oficina, localizada en Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Centro Judicial de Humacao, Sala Superior, en la Avenida Nicanor Vázquez, (frente al Centro de Bellas Artes) Humacao, Puerto Rico, al mejor postor en pago de contado y en moneda de los Estados Unidos de América cheque de gerente o giro postal todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada sobre la siguiente propiedad: URBANA: Solar marcado con el Número Treinta (30) del plano de inscripción del Proyecto VBC-104 denominado Villa Oriente radicado en el Barrio Mabú del término municipal de Humacao, Puerto Rico, con una cabida superficial de 292.77 metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE, con el Solar Número Treinta y uno (31), pared medianera con la vivienda Número Treinta y uno (31), distancia de 24.32; por el SUR, con el Solar Número Veintinueve (29), distancia de 26.13 metros; por el ESTE, linda con la verja y la faja de seguridad de 2.34 metros de canal, distancia de 11.68 metro; y por el OESTE, con la Calle A, distancia de 11.50 metros. Sobre este solar enclava una casa de concreto para fines residenciales. La propiedad consta inscrita al folio 175 del tomo 276 de Humacao, Finca Número 10702, Registro de la Propiedad de Humacao. La escritura de hipoteca consta inscrita al folio 179 del tomo 276 de Humacao, Finca Número 10702, Registro de la Propiedad de Humacao. Inscripción séptima. Dirección Física: Urb. Villa Oriente, A-30 Calle A, Humacao, PR 00791. Número de Catastro: 51-280098-162-95-001. El tipo mínimo para la primera subasta será de $47,950.00. De no haber adjudicación en la primera subasta se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA, día 17 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será de dos terceras partes del tipo mínimo fijado en la primera subasta, o sea, $31,966.66. De no haber adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día día 24 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será la mitad del precio pactado, o sea, $23,975.00. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se adjudicará la finca a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si ésta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta es mayor. Dicho remate se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a la demandante el importe de la Sentencia por la suma de $26,614.34

de principal, intereses sobre dicha suma al 7.5% anual desde el 1 de julio de 2017 hasta su completo pago, más $222.99 de recargos acumulados, más la cantidad estipulada de $4,795.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, así como cualquier otra suma que contenga el contrato del préstamo. Surge del Estudio de Título Registral que sobre esta propiedad pesa los siguientes gravámenes posteriores a la hipoteca que por la presente se pretende ejecutar: a. Aviso de Demanda: Pleito seguido por Banco Popular de Puerto Rico Vs. Sucesión de Nicolás Agosto Álvarez compuesta por Carmen D. Agosto Serrano, Fulano y Mengano de Tal posibles herederos desconocidos y Paula Serrano Ramos, Departamento de Hacienda y el Centro de Recaudaciones e Ingresos Municipales (CRIM), ante el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Humacao, en el Caso Civil Número HU2019CV00712, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca, en la que se reclama el pago de hipoteca, con un balance de $26,614.34 y otras cantidades, según Demanda de fecha 17 de mayo de 2019. Anotada al Tomo Karibe de Humacao. Anotación A. b.

Sentencia: Anotada contra Carmen Agosto Serrano a favor de Asociación de Empleados del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico, por la suma de $561.43 y otras cantidades, según Sentencia de fecha 17 de agosto de 2015, ante el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Humacao, en el Caso Civil Número HACI2013-00391. Presentada el 13 de agosto de 2015 al Folio 4, Número de Orden 10 del Libro de Sentencias Número 10.

Nota: No surge nuevas presentaciones. Se notifica al acreedor posterior o a su sucesor o cesionario en derecho para que comparezca a proteger su derecho si así lo desea. Se le advierte a los interesados que todos los documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como los de Subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados, durante horas laborables, en el expediente del caso que obra en los archivos de la Secretaría del Tribunal, bajo el número de epígrafe y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general en Puerto Rico por espacio de dos semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana; y para su fijación en los sitios públicos requeridos por ley. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes; entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en

la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate y que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores tal como lo expresa la Ley Núm. 2102015. Y para el conocimiento de los demandados, de los acreedores posteriores, de los licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, EXPIDO para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes, el presente Aviso de Pública Subasta en Humacao, Puerto Rico, hoy 6 de febrero de 2023. JOSÉ LUIS RODRÍGUEZ HERNÁNDEZ, ALGUACIL REGIONAL INTERINO, ALGUACIL, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, CENTRO JUDICIAL DE HUMACAO, SALA SUPERIOR. WILNELIA RIVERA DELGADO, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #249.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING, LLC

Demandante Vs. SYLVIA RODRIGUEZ

TORRES T/C/C SILVIA

RODRIGUEZ TORRES; ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA

Demandados

Civil Núm.: SJ2021CV06708.

Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: LA PARTE DEMANDADA, AL (A LA) SECRETARIO(A) DE HACIENDA DE PUERTO RICO Y AL PÚBLICO

GENERAL:

Certifico y Hago Constar: Que en cumplimiento con el Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que me ha sido dirigido por el (la) Secretario(a) del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de San Juan, en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor, por separado, de contado y por moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América y/o Giro Postal y Cheque Certificado, en mi oficina ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, el 5 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, todo derecho título, participación o interés que le corresponda a la parte demandada o cualquiera de ellos en el inmueble hipotecado objeto de ejecución que se describe a continuación: “URBANA: PRO-

PIEDAD

HORIZONTAL: Apar-

tamento GA guion cinco guion ciento noventa y tres (GA-5193) de un nivel, localizado en la planta baja del edificio número seis (6) “Reina Alejandra”, del Condominio Portal de la Reina, localizado en la Avenida Montecarlo del Barrio Sabana Llana de Rio Piedras, San Juan. Tiene un área superficial de mil ciento sesenta punto cero cero (1,160.00) pies cuadrados. Y un área de patio descubierto y cercado con un área superficial de ciento noventa y ocho punto cuarenta y tres (198.43) pies cuadrados equivalentes a dieciocho punto cuarenta y cuatro (18.44) metros cuadrados. En lindes por el Norte, en una distancia de veintisiete pies cero pulgadas (27’0”), con apartamento GA guion seis guion ciento noventa y cuatro (GA-6-194); por el Sur, en treinta y tres pies seis pulgadas (33’6”) con apartamento GA guion cuatro guion ciento noventa y dos (GA-4-192); por el Este, en veinte pies seis pulgadas (20’6”), otra de seis pies cero pulgadas (6’0”) y otra de doce pulgadas (12”) con área común; y por el Oeste, en una distancia de veintisiete pies cero pulgadas (27’0”), otra de cinco pies nueve pulgadas (5’9”), otra de trece pulgadas (13”) y otra de diecisiete pies diez pulgadas (17’10”) con área común. Tiene su puerta de entrada y salida en su primer nivel por su lado Este que da al pasillo exterior y a los caminos que conducen el área de estacionamiento. Consta de salacomedor, cocina, lavandería, tres (3) habitaciones, dos (2) baños, terraza y un área de patio descubierto y cercado. Le corresponde a este apartamento los estacionamientos número doscientos setenta y tres (273) y numero doscientos setenta y cuatro (274) localizado en el área de estacionamiento en la parte Norte del edificio. Este apartamento tiene una participación en los elementos comunes generales de punto cero cero cuatros dos nueve cero siete por ciento (.0042907%). Finca número 33,022, inscrita al folio 1 del tomo 982 de Sabana Llana, Registro de la Propiedad de San Juan, Sección V. La Hipoteca Revertida consta inscrita al folio 28 del tomo 1014 de Sabana Llana, Registro de la Propiedad de San Juan, Sección V, inscripción 9ª. Propiedad localizada en: COND. PORTAL DE LA REINA, APT. 193, 1306 MONTE CARLO AVE., SAN JUAN, PR 00924. Según figuran en la certificación registral, la propiedad objeto de ejecución está gravada por las siguientes cargas anteriores o preferentes: Nombre del Titular: N/A. Suma de la Carga: N/A. Fecha de Vencimiento: N/A. Según figuran en la certificación registral, la propiedad

objeto de ejecución está gravada por las siguientes cargas posteriores a la inscripción del crédito ejecutante: Nombre del Titular: Secretario de la Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano. Suma de la Carga: $210,000.00. Fecha de Vencimiento: 27 de junio de 2089. Nombre del Titular: Doral Mortgage Corporation. Suma de la Carga: $43,065.07. Anotación A: Demanda sobre Ejecución de Hipoteca, Civil Núm. KICD17-0320, Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad de la propiedad y que todas las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito ejecutante antes descritos, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistentes. El rematante acepta dichas cargas y gravámenes anteriores, y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se establece como tipo de mínima subasta la suma de $140,000.00, según acordado entre las partes en el precio pactado en la escritura de hipoteca. De ser necesaria una segunda subasta por declararse desierta la primera, la misma se celebrará en mi oficina, ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, el 13 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y se establece como mínima para dicha segunda subasta la suma de 93,333.33, 2/3 partes del tipo mínima establecido originalmente. Si tampoco se produce remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se establece como mínima para la TERCERA SUBASTA, la suma de $70,000.00, la mitad (1/2) del precio pactado y dicha subasta se celebrará en mi oficina, ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, el 20 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS

9:00 DE LA MAÑANA. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo para, con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante, el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor ascendente a la suma de $122,777.55 de principal, más los intereses al 3.89% anual hasta su total y completo pago, contribuciones, recargos y primas de seguro adeudados y los cuales continuaran en aumento hasta el saldo total de la deuda, más la cantidad estipulada de $14,000.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados. Dichas sumas están vencidas, son liquidas y exigibles. La venta en pública subasta de la referida propiedad se verificará libre de toda carga o gravamen posterior que afecte la mencionada finca, a cuyo efecto se notifica y se hace saber la fecha, hora y sitio de la PRIMERA, SEGUNDA Y TERCERA SUBASTA, si esto fuera necesario, a los efectos de que cualquier

persona o personas con algún interés puedan comparecer a la celebración de dicha subasta. Se notifica a todos los interesados que las actas y demás constancias del expediente de este caso están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables para ser examinadas por los (las) interesados (as). Y para su publicación en el periódico The San Juan Daily Star, que es un diario de circulación general en la isla de Puerto Rico, por espacio de dos semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones, así como para su publicación en los sitios públicos de Puerto Rico. Expedido en San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy 21 de febrero de 2023.

PEDRO HIEYE GONZÁLEZ, ALGUACIL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante V. GUILLERMO OÑATE

HERMIDA T/C/C

GUILLERMO ONATE

HERMIDA, ANMERAHILE COTTO ANDINO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS, ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA

Demandado

Civil Núm.: SJ2022CV09843.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA

POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO.

ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, S.S.

A: GUILLERMO OÑATE

HERMIDA T/C/C

GUILLERMO ONATE

HERMIDA, ANMERAHILE COTTO ANDINO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES

COMPUESTA POR AMBOS.

Por la presente se le emplaza y notifica que debe contestar la demanda dentro del término de treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación del presente edicto.

Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired. ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar

su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Se le apercibe que, de no contestar la demanda dentro del término aquí estipulado, se le anotará la rebeldía y se dictará sentencia sin más citarle ni oírle. Los abogados de la parte demandante son: Lcdo. Guillermo A. Somoza Colombani, P.O. Box 366603, San Juan, PR 009366603. Tel. (787) 919-0073, Fax (787) 641-5016. Expido este edicto bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal, hoy 21 de febrero de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. BRENDA

BÁEZ ACABA, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE BAYAMÓN ORIENTAL BANK

Demandante Vs. LUIS ARMANDO HERNANDEZ CORDOVA

Demandado

Civil Núm.: BY2023CV00412.

(503). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO (EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA). EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO.

A: LUIS ARMANDO HERNANDEZ CORDOVA.

POR EL PRESENTE EDICTO se le notifica que se ha radicado en esta Secretaría por la parte demandante, Demanda sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca por la Vía Ordinaria en la que se alega adeuda la suma principal de $68,456.18, intereses al 5.00% anual, desde el día 1ro de noviembre de 2021, hasta su completo pago, más la cantidad de $9,155.00 estipulada para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más recargos acumulados, todas cuyas sumas están líquidas y exigibles. La propiedad hipotecada a ser vendida en pública subasta es:

URBANA: Solar radicado en la URBANIZACIÓN CASITAS DE LA FUENTE “TOWNHOUSES”, localizado en el Barrio Mucarabones del término municipal de Toa Alta, Puerto Rico, que se describe en el plano de inscripción, con el número, área y colindancias que se relacionan a continuación: Solar número Dos (2) del Bloque “I”. Área del solar: CIENTO CINCUENTA Y DOS PUNTO CATORCE

(152.14) METROS CUADRADOS. En lindes: por el NORTE, en una distancia de veintiuno punto cincuenta (21.50) metros, con el solar número Uno

(1) del Bloque “I”, incluyendo pared medianera; por el SUR,

en una distancia de veintiuno punto cincuenta (21.50) metros, con el solar número Tres (3) del Bloque “1”, incluyendo pared medianera; por el ESTE, en una distancia de siete punto ochenta (7.80) metros, con el solar número Doce (12) del Bloque “H”; y por el OESTE, en una distancia de siete punto ochenta (7.80) metros, con la Calle número Cuatrocientos Tres (403). Contiene una casa en concreto para fines residenciales. Se halla afecto este solar a:

Servidumbre Telefónica: Franja de terreno de uno punto cincuenta y dos (1.52) metros de ancho por siete punto ochenta (7.80) metros de largo, localizada en la colindancia Oeste.

La escritura de hipoteca se encuentra inscrita al folio 176 del tomo 430 de Toa Alta, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección Tercera, finca número 21,953, inscripción segunda.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva dentro de los treinta (30) días de haber sido publicado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día de la publicación. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección: https:// unired.ramajudicial.pr/sumac/ salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La dirección postal del abogado de la parte demandante es la siguiente:

Lic. Baldomero A. Collazo Torres Bufete Collazo, Connelly & Surillo, LLC

P.O. Box 11550

San Juan, P.R. 00922-1550

Tel. (787) 625-9999

Fax (787) 705-7387

E-mail: bcollazo@lawpr.com

Se le notifica también por la presente que la parte demandante habrá de presentar para su anotación al Registrador de la Propiedad del Distrito en que está situada la propiedad objeto de este pleito, un aviso de estar pendiente esta acción. Para publicarse conforme a la Orden dictada por el Tribunal en un periódico de circulación general. EN TESTIMONIO DE LO CUAL, expido el presente Edicto que firmo y sello en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy 27 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. LAURA

I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. IVETTE

M. MARRERO BRACERO, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL

TRIBUNAL I.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN SEBASTIÁN

BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Demandante Vs. SUCESION DE WANDA IVONNE VEGA DENDARIARENA, COMPUESTA POR SUS HIJOS JESUS AQUINO

VEGA Y MARIA CARIDAD

AQUINO VEGA Y POR SU VIUDO JUAN AQUINO HERNANDEZ; FULANO DE TAL Y ZUTANO DE TAL COMO HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS CON POSIBLE INTERÉS; JUAN AQUINO HERNANDEZ

Demandados

Civil Núm.: SS2019CV00512. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO (EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA). EDICTO DE SUBASTA.

Al: PÚBLICO EN GENERAL.

A: SUCESION DE WANDA IVONNE VEGA DENDARIARENA, COMPUESTA POR SUS HIJOS JESUS AQUINO VEGA Y MARIA CARIDAD AQUINO VEGA Y POR SU VIUDO JUAN AQUINO HERNANDEZ; FULANO DE TAL Y ZUTANO DE TAL COMO HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS CON POSIBLE INTERÉS; JUAN AQUINO HERNANDEZ; CENTRO DE RECAUDACION DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES (CRIM).

Yo, LUIS A. NIEVES RIVERA, Alguacil de este Tribunal, a la parte demandada y a los acreedores y personas con interés sobre la propiedad que más adelante se describe, y al público en general, HAGO SABER: Que el día 2 DE MAYO DE 2023 A LAS 10:30 DE LA MAÑANA en mi oficina, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de San Sebastián, San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, venderé en Pública Subasta la propiedad inmueble que más adelante se describe y cuya venta en pública subasta se ordenó por la vía ordinaria al mejor postor quien hará el pago en dinero en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del o la Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del

Tribunal de San Sebastián durante horas laborables. Que en caso de no producir remate ni adjudicación en la primera subasta a celebrarse, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA para la venta de la susodicha propiedad, el día 9 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 10:30 DE LA MAÑANA y en caso de no producir remate ni adjudicación, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 16 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 10:30 DE LA MAÑANA en mi oficina sita en el lugar antes indicado. La propiedad a venderse en pública subasta se describe como sigue: RÚSTICA: Sita en el BARRIO POZOS de San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, compuesto de 3.00 cuerdas, igual a 11,791.20 metros cuadrados, en lindes por el Norte, con David Rivera y Carretera No. 497; por el Sur, con faja verde que la separa del Río Sonador; por el Este, con remanente de la finca, o sea, Eustaquia Rivera; y por el Oeste, con Francisco Rivera y José Luis Irizarry. La hipoteca por $100,000.00 se encuentra inscrita al folio 175 vto. del tomo 546 de San Sebastián, inscripción 11ª, 14ª y 17ª; Hipoteca por $50,000.00 se encuentra inscrita al folio 176 del tomo 546 de San Sebastián, inscripción 13ª y 16ta.; Hipoteca por $150,000.00 inscrita al folio 176vto. del tomo 546 de San Sebastián, inscripción 15ª, Registro de la Propiedad de San Sebastián, finca número 18317. La dirección física de la propiedad antes descrita es: Carr.497 km. 1.2, Bo. Pozas, San Sebastián, Puerto Rico. La subasta se llevará a efecto para satisfacer a la parte demandante la suma de $265,482.97 de principal, intereses al 6.24% anual, desde el día 1ro. de enero de 2017, hasta su completo pago, más la cantidad de $30,000.00 estipulada para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado más recargos acumulados, todas cuyas sumas están líquidas y exigibles. Que la cantidad mínima de licitación en la primera subasta será la suma de $100,000.00 más $50,000.00 más $150,000.00 para un total de $300,000.00.

Si no produjere remate ni adjudicación la primera subasta, en la segunda subasta servirá de tipo mínimo las dos terceras partes del precio pactado en las escrituras de hipoteca, es decir la suma de $66,666.67 más

$33,333.33 más $100,000.00 para un total de $200,000.00.

Si tampoco hubiere remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, regirá como tipo mínimo de la tercera subasta la mitad del precio pactado, o sea la suma de $50,000.00 más

$25,000.00 más $75,000.00 para un total de $150,000.00.

Si se declara desierta la tercera subasta se adjudicará la finca a

favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si esta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el Tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si esta es mayor. La propiedad se adjudicará al mejor postor, quien deberá satisfacer el importe de su oferta en moneda legal y corriente de los Estados Unidos de América en el momento de la adjudicación y que todo licitador acepta como suficiente la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes preferentes, si los hubiese, continuarán subsistentes, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. La propiedad a ser vendida en pública subasta se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Podrán concurrir como postores a todas las subastas los titulares de créditos hipotecarios vigentes y posteriores a la hipoteca que se cobra o ejecuta, si alguno o que figuren como tales en la certificación registral y que podrán utilizar el montante de sus créditos o parte de alguno en sus ofertas. Si la oferta aceptada es por cantidad mayor a la suma del crédito o créditos preferentes al suyo, al obtener la buena pro del remate, deberá satisfacer en el mismo acto, en efectivo o en cheque de gerente, la totalidad del crédito hipotecario que se ejecuta y la de cualesquiera otro créditos posteriores al que se ejecuta pero preferente al suyo. El exceso constituirá abono total o parcial en su propio crédito. EN TESTIMONIO DE LO CUAL, expido el presente Edicto para conocimiento y comparecencia de los licitadores, bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, en San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, a 24 de febrero de 2023. LUIS A. NIEVES RIVERA, ALGUACIL DEL TRIBUNAL, SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN SEBASTIÁN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE AGUADILLA

LEGACY MORTGAGE

ASSET TRUST 2019-PR1

Demandante Vs. CITIFINANCIAL SERVICES PR; JOHN DOE

Y RICHARD ROE COMO

POSIBLES TENEDORES DESCONOCIDOS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: AG2023CV00191.

Sobre: CANCELACIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE

LOS EE. UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: CITIFINANCIAL SERVICES PUERTO RICO. US DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, 451 7 HT STREET S.W. WASHINGTON, DC 20410.

A: JOHN DOE Y RICHARD ROE COMO POSIBLES TENEDORES DESCONOCIDOS. POR LA PRESENTE se les emplaza y requiere para que conteste la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este Edicto. Usted deberá radicar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: http://unired.ramajudicial.pr/sumac/, salvo que se presente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá radicar el original de su contestación ante el Tribunal correspondiente y notifique con copia a los abogados de la parte demandante, LCDA. MARJALIISA COLÓN VILLANUEVA. A su dirección: PO. Box 7970 Ponce, PR. 00732. Tel: 787-843-4168. En dicha demanda se tramita un procedimiento de cancelación de pagaré extraviado. Se alega en dicho procedimiento que se extravió un pagaré hipotecario a favor Citifinancial Services, PR, o a su orden, por la suma de catorce mil ciento cuarenta y tres dólares con noventa y nueve centavos ($14,143.99), con intereses al trece punto diecinueve ocho por ciento (13.19%) anual, vencedero el primero (1ro) de marzo de dos mil veinte (2020), según surge del testimonio número veintiocho mil quinientos ochenta y cinco (28,585) de la escritura número cuarenta y ocho (48), otorgada en San Sebastián, Puerto Rico, el día veinticuatro (24) de febrero de dos mil cinco (2005), ante el notario Pedro Mario Rivera Matos y cuya obligación está inscrita al folio ciento ochenta y tres (183) del tomo quinientos uno (501) de Isabela, finca número ocho mil setecientos treinta y cuatro (8,734), inscripción tercera (3ra). Inscrita en virtud de la ley doscientos dieciséis (216) de asiento abreviado. Que, la propiedad sobre la cual se constituyó dicha hipoteca es la siguiente: URBANA: Solar radicado en la Urbanización Medina, situada en el Barrio Masa de Isabela marcado en el plano con el número treinta y cinco (35) de la manzana “M”, con un área de trescientos doce punto cero cero (312.00) metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE, con la calle número once (11), en trece punto

cero cero (13.00) metros; por el SUR, con Gloria Quevedo, en trece punto cero cero (13.00) metros; por el ESTE, con el solar número treinta y seis (36), en veinticuatro punto cero cero (24.00) metros; por el OESTE, con el solar número treinta y cuatro (34), en veinticuatro punto cero cero (24.00) metros.

Inscrita al folio cincuenta y ocho (58) del tomo doscientos uno (201) de Isabela, finca número ocho mil setecientos treinta y cuatro (8,734) seis mil novecientos tres (6,903). Registro de la Propiedad de Aguadilla.

SE LES APERCIBE que, de no hacer sus alegaciones responsivas a la demanda dentro del término aquí dispuesto, se les anotará la rebeldía y se dictará Sentencia, concediéndose el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, sin más citarle ni oírle. Expedido bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal en Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, a día 24 de febrero de 2023. SARAHÍ REYES PÉREZ, SECRETARIA. ZUHEILY GONZÁLEZ AVILÉS, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBU-

NAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DDR RIO HONDO LLC, S.E.

Demandante V. SIMPLY, LLC

H/N/C SIMPLY ITALY; CHRISTIAN CLAIR; SUTTIPHAN NGAMTIPAKON, KANYAPHAK

AKARACHOTIKAVANICH Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANACIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: BY2022CV05989. (502). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: KANYAAPHAK

AKARACHOTIKAVANICH, Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA CON SUTTIPHAN

NGAMTIPAKON. M10 CALLE CIPRES, QUINTA DE DORADO, DORADO, P.R. 00646.

Por la presente se le notifica que se ha radicado en su contra una Demanda de Cobro de Dinero Ordinario en su contra. Se le emplaza y requiere para que notifique a:

Lcda. Mónica Ramos Benítez RUA Núm. 22,096

mramos@ferraiuoli.com

FERRAIUOLI, LLC

P.O. Box 195168

San Juan, PR 00919-5168

Tel: 787-766-7000

Abogados de la parte demandante, con copia de respuesta a la Demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este edicto. Usted deberá presentar alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: http://unired.ramajudicial.pr/ sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. EXPEDIDO bajo mi firma y con el sello del Tribunal. DADO hoy en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, 27 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. SANDRA BÁEZ HERNÁNDEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DDR RIO HONDO LLC, S.E.

Demandante V. SIMPLY, LLC

H/N/C SIMPLY

ITALY; CHRISTIAN CLAIR; SUTTIPHAN

NGAMTIPAKON, KANYAPHAK

AKARACHOTIKAVANICH Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANACIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: BY2022CV05989. (502). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO

POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: SUTTIPHAN

NGAMTIPAKON, Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA CON KANYAAPHAK

AKARACHOTIKAVANICH.

M10 CALLE CIPRES, QUINTA DE DORADO, DORADO, P.R. 00646. Por la presente se le notifica que se ha radicado en su contra una Demanda de Cobro de Dinero Ordinario en su contra.

Se le emplaza y requiere para que notifique a: Lcda. Mónica Ramos Benítez RUA Núm. 22,096 mramos@ferraiuoli.com

FERRAIUOLI, LLC

P.O. Box 195168 San Juan, PR 00919-5168 Tel: 787-766-7000

Abogados de la parte demandante, con copia de respuesta a la Demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este edicto. Usted deberá presentar alegación responsiva a través del Sistema

Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: http://unired.ramajudicial.pr/ sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. EXPEDIDO bajo mi firma y con el sello del Tribunal. DADO hoy en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, 27 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. SANDRA BÁEZ HERNÁNDEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DDR RIO HONDO LLC, S.E.

Demandante V. SIMPLY, LLC

H/N/C SIMPLY ITALY; CHRISTIAN CLAIR; SUTTIPHAN NGAMTIPAKON, KANYAPHAK AKARACHOTIKAVANICH

Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANACIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: BY2022CV05989. (502). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: CHRISTIAN CLAIR.

353 CAMINO DEL CUPEY, DORADO, P.R. 00646. Por la presente se le notifica que se ha radicado en su contra una Demanda de Cobro de Dinero Ordinario en su contra. Se le emplaza y requiere para que notifique a: Lcda. Mónica Ramos Benítez RUA Núm. 22,096

mramos@ferraiuoli.com

FERRAIUOLI, LLC

P.O. Box 195168

San Juan, PR 00919-5168

Tel: 787-766-7000

Abogados de la parte demandante, con copia de respuesta a la Demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este edicto. Usted deberá presentar alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: http://unired.ramajudicial.pr/ sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. EXPEDIDO bajo mi firma y con el sello del Tribunal. DADO hoy en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, 27 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. SANDRA BÁEZ HERNÁNDEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DDR RIO HONDO LLC, S.E.

Demandante V. SIMPLY, LLC

H/N/C SIMPLY

ITALY; CHRISTIAN CLAIR; SUTTIPHAN NGAMTIPAKON, KANYAPHAK

AKARACHOTIKAVANICH

Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANACIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

Demandados Civil Núm.: BY2022CV05989. (502). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: SIMPLY, LLC H/N/C SIMPLY ITALY. 353 CAMINO DEL CUPEY, DORADO, P.R. 00646. Por la presente se le notifica que se ha radicado en su contra una Demanda de Cobro de Dinero Ordinario en su contra. Se le emplaza y requiere para que notifique a: Lcda. Mónica Ramos Benítez RUA Núm. 22,096 mramos@ferraiuoli.com

FERRAIUOLI, LLC

P.O. Box 195168 San Juan, PR 00919-5168 Tel: 787-766-7000

Abogados de la parte deman-

dante, con copia de respuesta a la Demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este edicto. Usted deberá presentar alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: http://unired.ramajudicial.pr/ sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la Demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. EXPEDIDO bajo mi firma y con el sello del Tribunal. DADO hoy en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, 27 de febrero de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. SANDRA BÁEZ HERNÁNDEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR E.M.I. EQUITY MORTGAGE, INC.

Demandante Vs. GIOVANNI GRADO CHEAZZESE T/C/C GIOVANNI GRADO, DOROTEA LEO LEO T/C/C DOROTEA GRADO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

Demandados Civil Núm.: BY2022CV03528. Sala: 403. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA (VÍA ORDINARIA). EDICTO DE SUBASTA. El Alguacil que suscribe por la presente CERTIFICA, ANUNCIA y hace CONSTAR: Que en cumplimiento de un Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que le ha sido dirigido al Alguacil que suscribe por la Secretaría del TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMON, SALA SUPERIOR, en el caso de epígrafe procederá a vender en pública subasta al mejor postor en efectivo, cheque certificado en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América el 28 DE MARZO DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en la Oficina del Alguacil de Subastas, sita en el cuarto piso del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Bayamón, todo derecho, título e interés que tenga la parte demandada de epígrafe en el inmueble de su propiedad que ubica en: BLOQ. CD-30, CALLE 22, URBANIZA-

CION REXVILLE, BAYAMON, PR 00957 y que se describe a continuación: URBANA: Parcela de terreno en la Urbanización Rexville situada en el Barrio Pájaros de Bayamón, Puerto Rico, marcado con el número treinta de la Manzana “CD” con un área de 212.50 metros cuadrados, en lindes por el NORTE, con los solares 27 y 28, distancia de 10.00 metros; por el SUR, con la Calle número 22, distancia de 10.00 metros; por el ESTE, con el Solar 29, distancia de 21.250 metros; y por el OESTE, con el Solar 31, distancia de 21.250 metros. En este solar enclava una casa residencial para una familia. La propiedad antes relacionada consta inscrita al Folio 291 del Tomo 995 de Bayamón Sur, finca número 44,723, Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección Primera. El tipo mínimo para la primera subasta del inmueble antes relacionado, será el dispuesto en la Escritura de Hipoteca, es decir la suma de $64,606.00. Si no hubiere remate ni adjudicación en la primera subasta del inmueble mencionado, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA en las oficinas del Alguacil que suscribe el día 4 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA. En la segunda subasta que se celebre servirá de tipo mínimo las dos terceras partes (2/3) del precio pactado en la primera subasta, o sea la suma de $43,070.67. Si tampoco hubiere remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA en las oficinas del Alguacil que suscribe el día 11 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA. Para la tercera subasta servirá de tipo mínimo la mitad (1/2) del precio pactado para el caso de ejecución, o sea, la suma de $32,303.00. La hipoteca a ejecutarse en el caso de epígrafe fue constituida mediante la escritura de hipoteca número 365 otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 26 de octubre de 2011, ante el Notario David Cardona Dingui, consta inscrita al Folio 12 vuelto del tomo 1901de Bayamón Sur, finca número 44,723, inscripción Décimo Primera (11ra). Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer al Demandante total o parcialmente según sea el caso el importe de la Sentencia que ha obtenido ascendente a la suma de $48,608.99 por concepto de principal, desde el 1ro de marzo de 2022, más intereses al tipo pactado de 4.50% anual que continúan acumulándose hasta el pago total de la obligación. Además, la parte demandada adeuda a la parte demandante los cargos por demora equivalentes a 4.00% de la suma de aquellos pagos con atrasos en exceso de 15 días calendarios

de la fecha de vencimiento; los créditos accesorios y adelantos hechos en virtud de la escritura de hipoteca; y las costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado equivalentes a $6,460.60. Además, la parte demandada se comprometió a pagar una suma equivalente a $6,460.60 para cubrir cualquier otro adelanto que se haga en virtud de la escritura de hipoteca y una suma equivalente a $6,460.60 para cubrir intereses en adición a los garantizados por ley. Que los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al Procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la SECRETARIA DEL TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMON, SALA SUPERIOR durante las horas laborables. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titulación del inmueble y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio de remate. La propiedad está sujeta a gravámenes anteriores y/o preferentes según surge de las constancias del Registro de la Propiedad en un estudio de título efectuado a la finca antes descrita; Condiciones

Restrictivas: Para viabilizar la adquisición del bien inmueble, la Autoridad para el Financiamiento de la Vivienda de Puerto Rico, a través del Programa Mi Nuevo Hogar, concedió a las partes compradoras la suma de $5,000.00 para gastos de cierre, sin expresar término. Surge de un estudio de título que, sobre la finca descrita anteriormente, pesa el gravamen posterior a la hipoteca que se ejecuta mediante este procedimiento que se relaciona a continuación: Hipoteca en garantía de un pagaré a favor del Municipio de Bayamón, o a su orden, por la suma principal de $26,166.00, sin interés anual, vencedero el día 26 de octubre de 2021, constituida mediante la escritura número 91, otorgada en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, el día 26 de octubre de 2011, ante la notario Yaritza

Deyá Meléndez, e inscrita al folio 121 vuelto del tomo 1901 de Bayamón Sur, finca número 44,723, inscripción 12da. Sujeta a condiciones restrictivas bajo el Programa “Home” por el término de 10 años. Por la presente se notifica a los acreedores desconocidos, no inscritos o presentados que sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante o acreedores de cargos o derechos reales que los hubiesen pospuesto a la hipo-

teca del actor y a los dueños, poseedores, tenedores de o interesados en títulos transmisibles por endoso o al portador garantizados hipotecariamente con posterioridad al crédito del actor que se celebrarán las subastas en las fechas, horas y sitios señalados para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les conviniere o se les invita a satisfacer antes del remate el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, otros cargos y las costas y honorarios de abogado asegurados quedando subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. La propiedad objeto de ejecución y descrita anteriormente se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores una vez el Honorable Tribunal expida la correspondiente Orden de Confirmación de Venta Judicial. Y para conocimiento de licitadores del público en general se publicará este Edicto de acuerdo con la ley por espacio de dos semanas en tres sitios públicos del municipio en que ha de celebrarse la venta, tales como la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la Colecturía. Este Edicto será publicado dos veces en un diario de circulación general en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico, por espacio de dos semanas consecutivas. Expido el presente Edicto de subasta bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de marzo de 2023. MARIBEL LANZAR VELÁZQUEZ, ALGUACIL PLACA #735, ALGUACIL DE SUBASTAS, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN, SALA SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAGUAS

REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC Demandante Vs. SUCESIÓN DE CRISPULO ROSRIO GALARZA COMPUESTA CARMEN ROSA RODRIGUEZ, MARITZA ROSARIO ROSA, ANGEL LUIS ROSARIO ROSA; FULANO DE TAL Y SUTANO DE TAL COMO POSIBLES HEREDEROS DE NOMBRE DESCONOCIDO; CENTRO DE RECAUDACION DE INGRESOS

MUNICIPALES, ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA

Demandados

Civil: CG2022CV01412. Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECAIN REM. NOTIFICACIÓN DE

SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: SUCESION DE CRISPULO ROSARIO GALARZA COMPUESTA

POR CARMEN ROSA

RODRIGUEZ, MARITZA ROSARIO ROSA, ANGEL

LUIS ROSARIO ROSA; FULANO DE TAL Y SUTANO DE TAL COMO POSIBLES HEREDEROS DE NOMBRE DESCONOCIDO.

(Nombre de las partes a las que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 22 de febrero de 2023, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 1 de marzo de 2023. En Caguas, Puerto Rico, el 1 de marzo de 2023. LISILDA

MARTÍNEZ AGOSTO, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. SANDRA

J. TRINIDAD CAÑUELAS, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBU-

NAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE PATILLAS.

SAN CARLOS

MORTGAGE, LLC

Demandante vs. VICTOR LUIS

RODRIGUEZ RIVERA

Demandado

CIVILNUM. PA2021CV00214.

SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO (Ejecución de Hipoteca por la Vía Ordinaria). EDICTO DE SUBASTA.

Al: Público en General

A: VICTOR LUIS

RODRIGUEZ RIVERA; SCOTIABANK DE PUERTO RICO (ahora

Yo, LITZY M. CORA ANAYA, Alguacil de este Tribunal, a la parte demandada y a los acreedores y personas con interés sobre la propiedad que más adelante se describe, y al público en general, HAGO SABER: Que el día 13 de abril de 2023 a las 2:00 de la tarde en mi oficina, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Guayama, Guayama, Puerto Rico, venderé en Pública Subasta la propiedad inmueble que más adelante se describe y cuya venta en pública subasta se ordenó por la vía ordinaria al mejor postor quien hará el pago en dinero en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del o la Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Patillas durante horas laborables. Que en caso de no producir remate ni adjudicación en la primera subasta a celebrarse, se celebrará una segunda subasta para la venta de la susodicha propiedad, el día 20 de abril de 2023, a las 2:00 de la tarde; y en caso de no producir remate ni adjudicación, se celebrará una tercera subasta el día 27 de abril de 2023, a las 2:00 de la tarde en mi oficina sita en el lugar antes indicado. La propiedad a venderse en pública subasta se describe como sigue: URBANA: Parcela de terreno radicada en la URBANIZACIÓN VALLE LA PROVIDENCIA, localizada en el Barrio Los Pollos del término municipal de Patillas, Puerto Rico y que se describe en el plano de inscripción, con el número, área y colindancias que se relacionan a continuación:

Solar: Veinticuatro (24)del Bloque “B”. Área del solar: TRESCIENTOS VEINTIUNO PUNTO OCHOCIENTOS NOVENTA

Y SIETE (321.897) METROS CUADRADOS. En lindes: por el NORTE, en veintitrés punto cero cero (23.00) metros, con el solar número Veintitrés (23) del mismo bloque; por el SUR, en diecinueve punto cuatro seis seis siete (19.4667) metros, con la Calle número Dos (2); por el ESTE, en dieciséis punto dos dos dos cinco (16.2225) metros, con la Calle número Cuatro (4); y por el OESTE, en catorce punto cero cero (14.00) metros, con el solar número Uno (1) del mismo bloque. Enclava una casa. La escritura de hipoteca se encuentra inscrita al folio 3 del tomo 233 de Patillas, Registro de la Propiedad de Guayama, finca número 9,536, inscripción cuarta. La

dirección física de la propiedad antes descrita es: Urbanización Valles La Providencia, Calle 4, B-24, Patillas, Puerto Rico. La subasta se llevará a efecto para satisfacer a la parte demandante la suma de $54,463.45 de principal, intereses 4.50% anual, desde el día 1ro. de agosto de 2020, hasta su completo pago, más la cantidad de $6,731.60, estipulada para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado y recargos acumulados, todas cuyas sumas están líquidas y exigibles. Que la cantidad mínima de licitación en la primera subasta para el inmueble será la suma de $67,316.00 y de ser necesaria una segunda subasta, la cantidad mínima será equivalente a 2/3 partes de aquella, o sea, la suma de $44,877.34 y de ser necesaria una tercera subasta, la cantidad mínima será la mitad del precio pactado, es decir, la suma de $33,658.00. La propiedad se adjudicará al mejor postor, quien deberá satisfacer el importe de su oferta en moneda legal y corriente de los Estados Unidos de América en el momento de la adjudicación y que las cargas y gravámenes preferentes, si los hubiese, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. La propiedad hipotecada a ser vendida en pública Subasta se encuentra afecta al siguiente gravamen posterior: Hipoteca en Garantía de Pagaré a favor de Scotiabank de Puerto Rico, o a su orden, por la suma principal de $10,000.00, con intereses al 5.50% anual, vencedero el día 1ro. de noviembre de 2040, según consta de la Escritura Número 178, otorgada en Guayama, Puerto Rico, el día 24 de noviembre de 2010, ante la Notario Público J. Cristina Alamo García; inscrita al folio 3 del tomo 233 de Patillas, Registro de la Propiedad de Guayama, finca número 9,536, inscripción quinta. La propiedad a ser vendida en pública subasta se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. EN TESTIMONIO DE LO CUAL, expido el presente Edicto para conocimiento y comparecencia de los licitadores, bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, en Guayama, Puerto Rico, a 8 de febrero de 2023. LITZY M. CORA ANAYA, Alguacil Aux. #247, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA SUPERIOR DE GUAYAMA.

TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST AB1

Parte Demandante Vs. LA SUCESIÓN DE JOSÉ HUMBERTO GRAU ORTIZ COMPUESTA POR JOSÉ

H. GRAU BRULL, NURIS GRAU BRULL, CAROL

M. GRAU BRULL, JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE; BLANCA MARGARITA BRULL JOY POR SÍ

Y SU CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA; CENTRO DE RECAUDACIÓN DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES (CRIM); DEPARTAMENTO DE HACIENDA Y ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: SJ2022CV03616. (604). Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

A: LA SUCESIÓN DE JOSÉ HUMBERTO GRAU ORTIZ COMPUESTA POR JOSÉ H. GRAU BRULL, NURIS GRAU BRULL, CAROL M. GRAU BRULL, JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE; BLANCA MARGARITA BRULL JOY POR SÍ Y SU CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA.

LA SECRETARIA que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 27 de febrero de 2023, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Puerto Rico, dentro de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 60 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 28 de febrero de 2023. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, el 28 de febrero de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. ELSA MAGALY CANDELARIO CABRERA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL I.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN LEGACY MORTGAGE

ASSET TRUST 2019-PR1

Parte Demandante Vs. FRANCISCO GARCĹA OJEDA, SU ESPOSA SARA MARĹA REYES ACEVEDO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: SJ2020CV06724. Salón Núm.: (508). Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA Y COBRO DE DINERO. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS. A: FRANCISCO GARCĺA OJEDA, SU ESPOSA SARA MARĺA REYES ACEVEDO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANACIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS: CORPORACION DE RENOVACION URBANA DE LA VIVIENDA: Y AL PÚBLICO EN GENERAL:

El Alguacil que suscribe, certifica y hace constar que en cumplimiento de Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que me ha sido dirigido por la Secretaría del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de San Juan, procederé a vender en pública subasta y al mejor postor, por separado, de contado y por moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América. Todo pago recibido por el (la) Alguacil por concepto de subastas será en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del (de la) Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia. Todo derecho, título, participación e interés que le corresponda a la parte demandada o cualquiera de ellos en el inmueble hipotecado objeto de ejecución que se describe a continuación: URBANA: Propiedad Horizontal: Apartamento residencial marcado con el numero seiscientos cincuenta y ocho en el segundo piso del edificio número ocho del plano de inscripción del proyecto PRHA-17, denominado Residencial San José, radicado en el Barrio Hato Rey, del término municipal de Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, con un área de trescientos quince pies cuadrados con cero centésimas de otro, equivalente a veintinueve metros cuadrados con veintiséis

centésimas de otro, en lindes por el NORTE, con espacio exterior, en distancia de quince pies con cero pulgadas, equivalentes a cuatro metros con cincuenta y siete centésimas de otro; por el SUR, con espacio exterior, en distancia de quince pies con cero pulgadas, equivalentes a cuatro metros con cincuenta y siete centésimas de otro; por el ESTE, con pared medianera, en distancia de veintiún pies con cero pulgadas, equivalentes a seis metros con cuarenta centésimas de otro que lo separa del apartamento numero seiscientos sesenta; y por el OESTE, con pared medianera, en distancia de veintiún pies con cero pulgadas, equivalentes a seis metros con cuarenta centésimas de otro que lo separa del apartamento numero seiscientos cincuenta y seis. Este apartamento es el tipo Estudio (efficiency), y consta de sala-comedor-dormitorio, contenidos en una sola pieza, baño, cocina y partica en 0.17264% en los elementos comunes del Residencial. El acceso desde el apartamento a las aceras, calles, patios y paseos del proyecto es a través de la puerta principal localizada al Norte de dicho apartamento. Dicho acceso conduce a un pasillo exterior común (balconeta) que a su vez conduce a la escalera, que sirve únicamente a los apartamentos del segundo piso. Dicho acceso conduce a un pasillo exterior común (balconeta) que a su vez conduce a la escalera, que sirve únicamente a los apartamentos del segundo piso. Finca número #33,276, inscrita al folio 221 del tomo 1163 de Río Piedras Norte. Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Sección Segunda de San Juan. La propiedad objeto de ejecución está localizada en la siguiente dirección: Residencial San José, Edificio 8 Apartamento 658, San Juan, P.R. 00923. Según figura en el Estudio de título, la propiedad objeto de ejecución está gravada al siguiente Gravamen preferente a la inscripción del crédito ejecutante: Condiciones de Venta a favor de la Corporación de Renovación Urbana de la Vivienda, Ley número 131, el día 1 de julio de 1975, mediante la escritura número 67, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 26 de marzo de 1982, ante el notario G. Rivera Dionisi, e inscrita al folio 221 del tomo 1163 de Río Piedras Norte, finca número 33,27, inscripción ra. Se le notifica al acreedor preferente anteriormente identificado para que pueda concurrir a la subasta si le convenga. Se informa que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravamen posterior, una vez sea otorgada la escritura de venta judicial y obtenida la Orden y Mandamiento de can-

celación de gravamen posterior. (Art. 51, Ley 210-2015). En relación a la finca a subastarse, se establece como tipo mínimo de licitación en la Primera Subasta la suma de $25,600.00, según acordado entre las partes en el precio pactado en la Escritura de Hipoteca #1, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el día 13 de enero de 2006, ante el notario Javier F. Aponte Reyes, e inscrita al folio 219 del tomo 1547 de Río Piedras Norte, finca número 33,276, inscripción 4ta. La PRIMERA SUBASTA, se llevará a cabo el día 12 DE ABRIL DE 2023 A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en mis oficinas sitas en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de San Juan, el tipo mínimo para la primera subasta es la suma de $25,600.00. Si la primera subasta del inmueble no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 19 DE ABRIL DE 2023 A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo sitio y servirá de tipo mínimo las dos terceras partes del precio pactada para la primera subasta, o sea, la suma de $17,066.66. Si la segunda subasta no produjere remate, ni adjudicación, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 26 DE ABRIL DE 2023 A LAS 9:30 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar y regirá como tipo mínimo de la tercera subasta la mitad del precio pactado para la primera, o sea, la suma de $12,800.00. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo, para con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor, a saber: Suma

Principal de $19,924.13, con intereses a 8.17200% anual, desde el 18 de mayo de 2020, hasta el presente y los que se continúen acumulando hasta su total y completo pago, más una suma de $1,173.00, la cual no devenga intereses y pagadera a la fecha de vencimiento, más los cargos por demora que se corresponden a los plazos atrasados desde la fecha anteriormente indicada a razón de la tasa pactada de 5% de cualquier pago que éste en mora por más de quince (15) días desde la fecha de su vencimiento, más una suma equivalente a $2,560.00, por concepto de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otra suma que resulte por cualesquiera otros adelantos que se hayan hecho la demandante, en virtud de las disposiciones de la escritura de hipoteca y del Pagaré hipotecario. Para más información, a las personas interesadas se les notifica que los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal, durante las horas laborables. Este EDICTO

DE SUBASTA, se publicará en los lugares públicos correspondientes y en un periódico de circulación general en la jurisdicción de Puerto Rico. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los referentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes. Se entenderá que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se procederá a otorgar la correspondiente Escritura de Venta Judicial y el Alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días, de conformidad con las disposiciones de Ley. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Expedido en San Juan, Puerto Rico, a 1 de marzo de 2023. PEDRO HIEYE GONZÁLEZ, ALGUACIL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE FAJARDO

LUNA

RESIDENTIAL III, LLC

Demandante V. HELEN RUIZ HUE Demandada Civil Núm.: NSCI201600662. (301). Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE GARANTÍAS (IN REM). EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: PUBLICO EN GENERAL.

El Alguacil del Tribunal que suscribe anuncia y hace constar: A. Que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento que me ha sido dirigido por la Secretaria del Tribunal de Primera Instancia de Puerto Rico, Sala de Fajardo, en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor de contado y en moneda de curso legal y corriente de los Estados Unidos de América y cuyo pago se efectuará en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, todo derecho, título o interés que tenga la Parte Demandada en el bien inmueble que se describe a continuación: URBANA: Solar radicado en la Urbanización Hacienda Paloma II, localizada en el Barrio Sabana del término municipal

ORIENTAL BANK), por tener Hipoteca en Garantía de Pagaré a su favor por la suma de $10,000.00.

agosto de 2006, ante el Notario Nestor Machado Cortés, según inscripción sexta (6ta), la cual fue modificada mediante la escritura numero 45, otorgada en San Juan, Puerto Rico, el 8 de marzo de 2012, ante el Notario Antonio R. Pavía Vidal, para un nuevo principal por la suma de $64,743.44, según inscripción séptima. La PRIMERA SUBASTA se llevará a cabo el día 13 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma la suma de $254,027.51 sin admitirse oferta inferior. En el caso de que el inmueble a ser subastado no fuera adjudicado en la primera subasta, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 20 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA y el precio mínimo para esta segunda subasta será el de dos terceras partes del precio mínimo establecido para la primera subasta, o a sea la suma de $169,351.67. Si tampoco hubiera remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 27 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA, y el tipo mínimo para esta tercera subasta será la mitad del precio establecido para la primera subasta, o sea, la suma de $127,013.76. El mejor postor deberá pagar el importe de su oferta en efecto, cheque certificado o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse el inmueble al acreedor hipotecario dentro de los diez días siguientes a la fecha de la última subasta, si así lo estimase conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada conforme a la sentencia, si ésta fuera igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta y abonándose dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta fuera mayor. Se avisa a cualquier licitador que la propiedad queda sujeta al gravamen del Estado Libre Asociado y CRIM sobre la propiedad inmueble por contribuciones adeudadas y que el pago de dichas contribuciones es la responsabilidad del licitador. Que se entenderá por todo licitador acepte como suficiente la titulación y que los cargos y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes en entendiéndose que el rematador los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse su extinción al precio rematante.

Todos los nombres de los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante, o de los acreedores de cargas o

derechos reales que los hubiesen pospuesto a la hipoteca ejecutada y las personas interesadas en, o con derecho a exigir el cumplimiento de instrumentos negociables garantizados hipotecariamente con posterioridad al crédito ejecutado, siempre que surgen de la certificación registral, para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les convenga o satisfacer antes del remate el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando entonces subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Y para conocimiento de licitadores, del público en general y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general diaria en Puerto Rico y en los sitios públicos de acuerdo a las disposiciones de la Regla 51.7 de las de Procedimiento Civil, así como para la publicación en un periódico de circulación general diaria y en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico, por espacio de dos semanas con antelación a la fecha de la primera subasta y por lo menos una vez por semana. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento indicado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante las horas laborables. (Art. 102 (1) de la Ley núm. 210-2015). Expedido el presente en Bayamón, Puerto Rico a 15 de febrero de 2023. EDGARDO ELÍAS

VARGAS SANTANA, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #193, ALGUACIL DEL TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA DE BAYAMÓN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN

WILMINGTON SAVINGS

FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIAN A TRUST, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE CSMC 2015-PR1 TRUST, MORTGAGE BACKED

NOTES, SERIES 2015-PR1

Parte Demandante Vs. MARÍA DOLORES

GARCÍA RÍOS T/C/C

MARÍA D. GARCÍA RÍOS, POR SÍ; Y LA SUCESIÓN DE ZACARÍAS DELGADO

SOTO COMPUESTA POR ELIEZER DELGADO CORTÉS, ELIZABETH DELGADO CORTÉS, GÉNESIS AREILLY DELGADO GARCÍA, JEYSHUA O’NEILL DELGADO GARCÍA

Y ALEXIS JAVIER DELGADO MADERA EN REPRESENTACIÓN DE ALEXIS DELGADO CORTÉS; HONORABLE SECRETARIO DE HACIENDA; HONORABLE SECRETARIO DE JUSTICIA

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: SJ2023CV00597.

Sala: 604. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: MARÍA DOLORES

GARCÍA RÍOS T/C/C

MARÍA D. GARCÍA RÍOS, POR SÍ Y GÉNESIS AREILLY DELGADO

GARCÍA, JEYSHUA

O’NEILL DELGADO

GARCÍA Y ALEXIS JAVIER

DELGADO MADERA EN REPRESENTACIÓN DE ALEXIS DELGADO CORTÉS COMO

MIEMBROS DE LA SUCESIÓN DE ZACARÍAS

DELGADO SOTO.

Quedan emplazados y notificados de que en este Tribunal se ha radicado una demanda de COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA en sus contras. Se les notifica para que comparezcan ante el Tribunal dentro del término de treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación de este edicto y exponer lo que a sus derechos convenga, en el presente caso. Se les notifica que deberán presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https:// unired.ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberán presentar su alegación responsiva en la Secretaría del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de San Juan y enviando copia de su contestación a la parte demandante, GarcíaChamorro Law Group, P.S.C., 1225 Ave. Ponce de León, Suite 706, San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00907, Tel. (787) 977-1932, Fax (787) 722-1932, se les anotará la rebeldía en su contra y se dictará sentencia en su contra, conforme se solicita en la Demanda, sin más citárseles, ni oírseles. Se ORDENA a los herederos del referido causante a saber: MARÍA DOLORES

GARCÍA RÍOS T/C/C MARÍA

D. GARCÍA RÍOS, POR SÍ Y

GÉNESIS AREILLY DELGADO

GARCÍA, JEYSHUA O’NEILL DELGADO GARCÍA Y ALEXIS

JAVIER DELGADO MADERA EN REPRESENTACIÓN DE ALEXIS DELGADO CORTÉS COMO MIEMBROS DE LA SUCESIÓN DE ZACARÍAS DELGADO SOTO, a que dentro del mismo término de treinta (30) días contados a partir de la fecha de la notificación, ACEPTEN o REPUDIEN la participación que les corresponda en la herencia del causante, ZACARÍAS DELGADO SOTO. Se les apercibe a los herederos antes mencionados que de no expresarse dentro de ese término de treinta (30) días en torno a su aceptación o repudiación de herencia, se tendrá por aceptada. Expedido bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal, a 27 de febrero de 2023. GRISELDA RODRÍGUEZ COLLADO, SECRETARIA. FERNÁNDEZ DEL VALLE, LUZ E., SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

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ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE HUMACAO PALMAS DEL MAR HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

Parte Demandante V. ERNESTO R. ABRUÑA PADUA Y OTROS

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: HU2022CV01654. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: ERNESTO R. ABRUÑA PADUA Y VIVIAN DÁVILA BARRETO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS.

POR LA PRESENTE, se le emplaza y requiere para que notifique a:

GONZÁLEZ & MORALES LAW OFFICES, LLC

PO BOX 10242

HUMACAO, PR 00792

TELÉFONO: (787) 852-4422

FACSÍMIL: (787) 285-4425

EMAIL: jrg@gonzalezmorales.com abogados de la parte demandante, cuya dirección es la que deja indicada, con copia de su Contestación a la Demanda, copia de la cual le es servida en este caso, dentro de los TREINTA (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este Emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso

Monday, March 6, 2023

deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Debe saber que en caso de no hacerlo así podrá dictarse Sentencia en Rebeldía en contra suya, concediendo el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. EXTENDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA y el Sello del Tribunal, hoy día 27 de febrero de 2023. IVELISSE C. FONSECA RODRÍGUEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. ARSENIA MARTÍNEZ SÁNCHEZ, SUBSECRETARIA.

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ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE HUMACAO ASOCIACIÓN DE PROPIETARIOS DE PLAYA HÚCARES, INC.

Parte Demandante V. BENJAMIN TORRES MARTÍNEZ, JR. OTROS

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: NG2023CV00013. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: BENJAMN TORRES MARTÍNEZ, JR.; NANCY RIVERA ORTIZ Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS. POR LA PRESENTE, se le emplaza y requiere para que notifique a:

GONZÁLEZ & MORALES LAW OFFICES, LLC PO BOX 10242

HUMACAO, PR 00792

TELÉFONO: (787) 852-4422

FACSÍMIL: (787) 285-4425

EMAIL: jrg@gonzalezmorales.com abogados de la parte demandante, cuya dirección es la que deja indicada, con copia de su Contestación a la Demanda, copia de la cual le es servida en este caso, dentro de los TREINTA (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este Emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Debe saber que en caso de no hacerlo así podrá dictarse Sentencia en Rebeldía en contra suya, concediendo el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribu-

nal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. EXTENDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA y el Sello del Tribunal, hoy día 27 de febrero de 2023. IVELISSE C. FONSECA RODRÍGUEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. MICHELLE GUEVARA DE LEÓN, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR BANCO POPULAR DE PUERTO RICO

Parte Demandante Vs. LA SUCESIÓN DE MILDRED ESTHER

RODRÍGUEZ GONZÁLEZ T/C/C MILDRED E. RODRÍGUEZ

COMPUESTA POR: NINOSHKALIE MALDONADO RODRÍGUEZ T/C/C

NINOSHKA MALDONADO RODRÍGUEZ, SIGFREDO MALDONADO RODRÍGUEZ Y MENGANO DE TAL, POSIBLE HEREDERO DESCONOCIDO; JUAN RAMOS POR SÍ Y EN LA CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: BY2021CV02975. (402). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO, EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VÍA ORDINARIA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El Alguacil que suscribe por la presente anuncia y hace constar que en cumplimiento de la Sentencia en Rebeldía dictada el 17 de octubre de 2022 y notificada el 3 de enero de 2023, la Orden de Ejecución de Sentencia del 21 de febrero de 2023 y el Mandamiento de Ejecución del 22 de febrero de 2023 en el caso de epígrafe, procederé a vender el día 20 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA en el Cuarto Piso de la Oficina del Alguacil de Subastas, localizada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Centro Judicial de Bayamón, Sala Superior, ubicado en la Carretera Número Dos (#2), Kilómetro 10.4, Esquina Esteban Padilla, Bayamón, Puerto Rico, al mejor postor en pago de contado y en moneda de los Estados Unidos de América, cheque de gerente o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal; todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada sobre la siguiente propiedad:

URBANA: Solar radicado en la Urbanización Vista de Morro situada en el término Municipal de Cataño, con el Número 14 del Bloque “R” compuesta de 224.94 metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE: con la Calle Número 6 en una distancia de 9.78 metros; por el SUR: con Constructora San Miguel Martínez Inc., en una distancia de 9.78 metros; por el ESTE: con el Solar Número 15 en una distancia de 23.00 metros; por el OESTE: con el Solar Número 13 en una distancia de 23.00 metros. Enclava una casa de cemento dedicada a vivienda. La propiedad consta inscrita al folio 207 del tomo 98 de Cataño, Finca 4658. Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección IV. La escritura de hipoteca consta como asiento abreviado al tomo Karibe de Cataño, Finca 4658. Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección IV. Inscripción novena. DIRECCIÓN FÍSICA: URB VISTA DEL MORRO, R14 CALLE COTORRA, CATAÑO PR 00962. Número de catastro: 14-039067-245-69-001. El tipo mínimo para la primera subasta será de $60,000.00. De no haber adjudicación en la primera subasta se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA, el día 27 DE ABRIL DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será de dos terceras partes del tipo mínimo fijado en la primera subasta, o sea, $40,000.00. De no haber adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA el día 4 DE MAYO DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar, en la cual el tipo mínimo será la mitad del precio pactado, o sea, $30,000.00. Si se declarase desierta la tercera subasta, se adjudicará la finca a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si ésta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo de la tercera subasta, si el tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si esta es mayor. Dicho remate se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a la demandante el importe de la Sentencia por la suma de $48,039.21 de principal, intereses sobre dicha suma de 7.25% anual desde el 1 de julio de 2019 hasta su completo pago, más $204.70 de recargos acumulados, más la cantidad estipulada de $6,000.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogados, así como cualquier otra suma que contenga el contrato de préstamo. Surge del Estudio de Título Registra! que sobre esta propiedad pesan los siguientes gravámenes posteriores a la hipoteca que por la presente se pretende ejecutar: a. Aviso de Demanda: Pleito seguido por Banco Popular de Puerto Rico

Vs. Sucesión de Mildred Esther Rodríguez González también conocida como Mildred E. Rodríguez compuesta por Ninoshkalie Maldonado Rodríguez también conocida como Ninoshka Maldonado Rodríguez, Fulano y Mengano de Tal y Juan Ramos, ante el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Bayamón, en el Caso Civil Número BY2021CV02975, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Ejecución de Hipoteca, en la que se reclama el pago de hipoteca, con un balance de $48,039.21 y otras cantidades, según Demanda de fecha 2 de agosto de 2021. Anotada al Tomo Karibe de Cataño. Anotación A. b. Embargo Estatal: Anotado sobre esta Finca como perteneciente a Juan Ramos por concepto de contribución sobre ingresos por la suma de $1,844.74 a favor del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico, según certificación de fecha 25 de abril de 2013, presentada el 24 de abril de 2013 al Folio 176, Número de Orden 695 del Libro de Embargos Estatales Número 1. Se les advierte a los interesados que todos los documentos relacionados con la presente acción de ejecución de hipoteca, así como los de Subasta, estarán disponibles para ser examinados, durante horas laborables, en el expediente del caso que obra en los archivos de la Secretaría del Tribunal, bajo el número de epígrafe y para su publicación en un periódico de circulación general en Puerto Rico por espacio de dos semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana; y para su fijación en los sitios públicos requeridos por ley. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante, continuarán subsistentes; entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate y que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores, tal como lo expresa la Ley Núm. 210-2015. Y para el conocimiento de los demandados, de los acreedores posteriores, de los licitadores, partes interesadas y público en general, EXPIDO para su publicación en los lugares públicos correspondientes, el presente Aviso de Pública Subasta en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy 1 de marzo de 2023. MARIBEL LANZAR VELÁZQUEZ, ALGUACIL PLACA #735, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN, SALA SUPERIOR.

The fastest man in baseball says he can go even faster

“The era that we saw, I don’t think we’ll ever see that again,” Counsell said. “But the number for the league leader in stolen bases will be higher this year than it was last year. And I think we can go back to a world where we’ll see that player more, for sure. So I think it’s a fun thing.”

And Mitchell is a fun player, even if he’s not the biggest star in his family; his wife, professional softball player Haley Cruse Mitchell, has more than 850,000 followers on TikTok. She is part of a support system Mitchell credits with helping him thrive despite his Type 1 diabetes, a disease that may have scared off some teams before the 2020 draft.

Mitchell — who was first diagnosed at age 9 — hit .349 with 18 steals as a sophomore at UCLA. But he played only 15 games as a junior before the coronavirus pandemic ended the season. With less time to see his skills, the Brewers believe, rival teams may have overemphasized Mitchell’s medical condition.

“The COVID draft hurt him some because he couldn’t put another full year of really good performance out there,” said Tod Johnson, the Brewers’ vice president for domestic scouting. “And so, I think that let some people worry more about some of the other things that weren’t the performance.”

Santo, former pitchers Bill Gullickson and Jason Johnson, and former third baseman Dave Hollins.

Another, Sam Fuld, encouraged Mitchell in a phone call when Mitchell was a top high school prospect in Orange, California. As a boy, Fuld had met Gullickson at a game in Boston, and he told Mitchell how the discipline required to manage the disease could actually help him.

“It is a giant pain in the rear end that requires a lot of constant care and maintenance and patience — but ultimately, if you stay on top of it, you can use it to your advantage, because you are going to be in tune with your body and what you put into it,” said Fuld, who is now the general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies.

“And the reality is, it gives you a little bit of a chip on your shoulder, because there still is a stigma attached to the disease, not nearly to the extent that there was 50 years ago, when Ron Santo was playing, but there’s still people who have reservations in, say, committing to a professional athlete, or even an amateur athlete, and trusting that that person is going to be able to regulate their blood sugar and be able to stay on the field.”

By TYLER KEPNER

The fastest man in the major leagues sounded almost embarrassed. Yes, Garrett Mitchell, a rookie center fielder for the Milwaukee Brewers, had a home-to-first sprint speed of 4.01 seconds last season. Yes, that was the fastest time of more than 500 players tracked by Major League Baseball’s Statcast system.

No, Mitchell was not impressed.

“To me, that wasn’t that fast,” Mitchell said while standing by his locker at the Brewers’ complex in Phoenix before a game last week. “My fastest time that I’ve ever had, home to first, was like 3.89 or 3.91. So when people say, ‘Hey, you have the fastest time,’ I’m like, ‘Well, that was kind of slow. I could be a lot faster than that.’”

As MLB tries to encourage speed this season, with bigger bases and limits on pickoff throws, players like Mitchell are poised to make an impact. The major league leader in stolen bases last season was Miami’s Jon Berti, with 41, far from the record of 130, set by Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson for Oakland in 1982.

Henderson set the mark in Milwaukee that summer and got a ride to the postgame news conference from John Counsell, who worked for the Brewers. John’s 12-year-old son, Craig, hopped onto the golf cart with Henderson. Craig Counsell, now the Brewers’ manager, doubts he will recreate that moment with Mitchell — but he’s eager for a running revival.

The Brewers — who are trying to develop position players to match their deep group of homegrown pitchers — were thrilled that Mitchell fell to them with the 20th overall pick. He made an immediate impression at his first spring training, in 2021, verifying the top-of-thescale speed grade (the little-used “80”) that the Brewers gave him as a prospect.

“You look at him, and he’s not a small guy, not somebody you’d expect to run that way,” Johnson said of Mitchell, who is 6-foot-3 and 224 pounds. “His first game here, he hit a ground ball to second, and the second baseman had all kinds of time, but you could see him panic when he saw where Garrett was. I don’t know if he beat it out or not, but he certainly made that player speed up his game. And that’s what he does — he hits first gear really quick, accelerates from there and just takes off.”

Mitchell played only 132 games in the minors, with 34 steals in 37 attempts and a .382 on-base percentage. Promoted to Milwaukee in late August, he batted .311 in 28 games and swiped eight bases without being caught.

“The mindset I had was like: No one’s going to beat me here,” Mitchell said. “And it ended up working in my favor, a good amount of the time, which was nice. But it just reminded me about confidence.”

Mitchell, 24, has several examples of players with Type 1 diabetes who had substantial major league careers: among others, the list includes Hall of Famer Ron

Fuld spent much of his career as a reserve and said the sudden adrenaline rush from being called to pinch hit could sometimes cause his blood-sugar level to spike. He wears a glucose monitor now, but as a player, from 2007 to 2015, he would check his levels by pricking his finger every few innings.

“There’s a piece of your brain that’s occupied at all times: Where is my blood sugar? What am I eating? What was my exercise in the last 24 hours?” Fuld said. “You know, all these variables that affect your levels and your management. More than anything, it’s like a constant stress that exists, and there’s just no running from it.”

While an estimated 27 million adults in the United States have Type 2 diabetes, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 1.6 million or so have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that requires insulin as treatment. Mitchell keeps an insulin pump — about half the size of a cellphone — in his back left pocket during every game. The device serves the same purpose as shots, pumping insulin from a cartridge through a tube and into his body. Mitchell said he changes the infusion site every three days with a poke in his backside.

The disease, Mitchell knows, is part of his identity, and he is so open about it that he lists “Type 1 Diabetic,” along with his team name and a Bible verse, atop his Twitter and Instagram pages. He wants to inspire fans with more than his speed.

“I love meeting kids off the field who are diabetic — like, ‘Hey, Garrett! I’m Type 1! Type 1 Warrior,’” Mitchell said. “Things like that, it’s really cool.”

Garrett Mitchell of the Milwaukee Brewers was 8 for 8 on stolen base attempts in 2022 and recorded the fastest home-to-first speed of any player in Major League Baseball.

Time is no longer on their side

By ADAM ELDER

For the past 150 years, baseball has sold the timeless nature of the sport. How long will today’s game take? However long it takes. But recently, the caretakers of the sport at its highest level — Major League Baseball — have seemed to fret that their game might need saving.

To that end, baseball, a game marketed largely on tradition and tension, is suddenly joining the other major sports in pivoting from its century-old rhythms to a future that was once unthinkable: Starting this year, the sport will let a clock dictate the pace of its action.

In September, when addressing the creation of a pitch clock, along with a series of other new rules, Commissioner Rob Manfred said the goal was to “bring back the best form of baseball.”

For baseball fans, many of them nostalgic for the days of shorter games, higher batting averages and more stolen bases, the changes might feel like a throwback. But to the pitching coaches who work to get their players ready, the changes to the game represent some of the biggest in MLB history — and a giant leap into an unknown future.

“Whether you like it or not, it really doesn’t matter,” said Carl Willis, pitching coach of the Cleveland Guardians. “It’s our job to help our pitchers make those adjustments.”

The pitch clock will make its regular-season debut March 30, and the lead-up in spring training has spawned something of an idea factory inside every pitching staff. Players and coaches are theorizing, hypothesizing and planning for seemingly every ripple effect that the changes could instigate. They’re gleaning intelligence from minor league coaches and players, who have used pitch clocks in the past. And they are indulging their inner inventors as they try to cultivate ways to, quite literally, bring their pitchers up to speed.

Tommy Hottovy, pitching coach of the Chicago Cubs, identified which of his pitchers had a natural cadence last season that fell outside of the 15-second limit now allowed between pitches (20 seconds with runners on base). Pete Maki of the Minnesota Twins began setting up timers in his bullpen on the first day of spring training. Kyle Snyder of the Tampa Bay Rays purchased more stopwatches than he could recall and invited minor league umpires, who have experience with the clock, to help advise his team during live batting practice.

But the pitching coaches are stuck on myriad questions that will hang in the air until real games are played. For example, pitchers who shake off too many pitches could end up taking too much time, which is hard to simulate in spring training games where nothing is on the line. “Pitchers and catchers being on the

same page has always mattered,” Maki said. “It’s not like it wasn’t important and now it is, but now there’s more of a spotlight.”

Other coaches are concerned that relief pitchers may need to improve their conditioning, with an emphasis from some on doing more cardiovascular workouts. That may seem a bit ridiculous for a group of athletes who typically work for about 10 minutes a game, but relievers will need to get themselves from the bullpen to the mound, warm up and be ready to face their first batter all within 1 minute, 45 seconds — effectively needing to win a foot race against the clock just to enter the game.

In stadiums such as Detroit’s Comerica Park and Denver’s Coors Field, where the bullpens are beyond the center field wall, that short window will be a big ask, even with the clock not starting until they have reached the warning track.

The whole setup was enough for New York Mets manager Buck Showalter to ponder if baseball might need to reintroduce carts to shuttle pitchers to the mound from the bullpen.

An emphasis on fitness could be necessary for other reasons beyond getting relievers to the mound on time.

“I’ve heard from Triple-A coaches that guys can get gassed when they start to have long innings because there’s never much opportunity to step off, collect and compose yourself,” Willis said. “The last thing any of us want is to put a guy at physical risk, and when a guy fatigues, that’s when they get in danger. Obviously, we’re all here to win, and to do that, you’ve got to keep them healthy.”

The coaches are also tinkering with technology. To save precious time between pitches, they said they were excited about furthering the use of PitchCom, a wireless, push-button communication system introduced last season that allows a catcher to call pitches to a speaker in the pitcher’s hat.

Since PitchCom devices can be programmed to say almost anything, some coaches have envisioned ways they could help with the new rules. With a clock ticking, runners on base, mound visits limited, only two pickoffs attempts allowed and a big pitch coming up, pitching coaches might consider adding other messages to PitchCom — perhaps one reminding the pitcher not to step off the rubber again or to be aware of the hitter looking to bunt.

Depending on which pitching coach you ask, the pitch clock and restrictions on mound visits might also radically alter a coach’s job duties.

“I think it is going to speed up the internal clock in the dugout,” Hottovy said when discussing how things will work between him and manager David Ross. “In the past, if Rossy and I are talking about a potential

move, you have a visit to the mound and do all those things that help your reliever get warmed up. Now, you won’t have that time. The time it took to make that call and get a guy up might have been two to three minutes. But two to three minutes in a game now is nine to 10 pitches.

“You’ll just have to be on top of your game with preparation,” he said.

Pitching coaches are also busy honing the art of holding runners. It is widely speculated that limiting pickoff attempts could lead to an explosion in stolen bases. So, Snyder and others are working on shortening their pitchers’ lead leg times — far from a simple change with veteran players who have been developing their craft for decades — in hopes of getting them to deliver the ball more quickly to home plate.

The pitching coaches seemed to expect an eventful period as pitchers, batters, coaches and umpires become acquainted with a new concept added to an old sport. But although there are some seasoned baseball traditionalists rolling their eyes at the new rules, the coaches mostly were ready to roll with a period of change.

“I do not think this is going to be the apocalypse,” Snyder said. “We work in entertainment, man. It’s part of what we expect to some degree. This is going to be good for fans and good for baseball.”

And maybe, if things work out right, the clock can bring some urgency to a game that has been accused of lacking it in the past.

“Time pressure is motivating,” Maki said. “Who doesn’t work better with time pressure? When I have a deadline, I work really well.”

A pitch clock during a spring training game between the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners, in Peoria, Ariz. on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023.

Nontraditional runners are finding their stride online

around the United States, but they also maintain a social media presence that allows people to connect with them from anywhere.

When Nicki Conroy started running in 2007, she tried out the local groups around Binghamton, New York, but they weren’t geared toward runners at her pace or with her challenges as a single mother of six. So she ran alone. But as she trained for her first marathon in 2010, she started looking for resources and found the Another Mother Runner online community.

“It was nice to have something to fall back on where there was somebody who didn’t think I had to be running that nine-minute mile,” Conroy said.

Conroy knew local runners who were mothers, but they were all married, and their spouses could get the children up in the morning while the women squeezed in early runs. Conroy had to make sure her children got up and out herself. Another Mother Runner gave her a community in which she found runners she could relate to.

“I think we all look for support in different ways, but the local group that may be out there, they may not be the people for you,” Conroy said.

Lara Wines lives in Watertown, New York, but she follows the Black Girls Run chapter in Albany, about 170 miles away, because her daughter lives in the area. If Wines is visiting or if the Albany chapter plans a virtual run, she can join in.

“When you’re not a traditional athlete, it feels intimidating, so when you find these people online, that lets you know you’re perfectly fine wherever you are,” Wines said. “That lets you know you can do it.”

Wines participates in several running groups, dipping in and out depending on what she needs. Most recently, as she returns from an injury, she has been active in a group that focuses on run-walk intervals.

By JENNIE COUGHLIN

New York is a diverse city, but when María Solis Belizaire started running in 2016, she didn’t see that reflected in the running community there.

“I would do these long runs or would go to these events, and I wouldn’t find anybody who looked like me,” she said.

She began to ask around, looking for a Latino running community. She figured there had to be one in a city with a large Latino population. No luck. So she sat down one day to search online for such a group.

“The only thing that popped up was GoDaddy trying to sell me the website,” Solis said.

So in 2016, she started Latinos Run, and later Latinas Run, so she could help other Latino runners connect with one another.

“The reality is, there’s no visibility of people in our community,” she said, later adding that the climate has shifted since she started the groups, although there was still room to increase the diversity and accessibility of

the running community.

The organizers of many of the running groups that were established to welcome people of various races, ethnicities, life stages or speeds often share a similar story: They showed up, didn’t see anybody who looked or ran like they did and wanted to change that.

Michael Stinson is now the chief operating officer for Black Men Run, but in 2013, when he was new to running, he also turned to the internet to search, “Do Black men run?” Two months earlier, Jason Russell and Edward Walton founded Black Men Run, and Stinson said he joined as quickly as possible. He described his experience before finding the group as “that frustration of feeling like you’re on an island by yourself.”

“You walk into a situation,” Stinson said of showing up at races or events when he started running. “There’s nobody who looks like you. There’s comments, and there’s stares, and people make snide comments under their breath. You think, ‘OK, maybe I don’t belong here.’ But I knew that’s where I wanted to be.”

Many of these running clubs have local chapters

“I started doing these intervals, posting in the group, and here I am, back doing daily runs again,” she said.

Martinus Evans, who started the Slow AF Run Club in 2018 to provide a virtual space for slower and heavier runners, said the variety of affinity organizations that people could join was good for the sport.

“By having these communities, all these communities, we’re just becoming a conduit for more individuals to get into running, which is always a good thing,” he said.

Black Men Run is Stinson’s main affiliation, but he is also a big fan of Evans and what he has contributed to the running community by showing a different face for recreational running from a fast, slim, white man.

“You’re valid as a runner and an athlete even if you don’t look like that,” Stinson said.

Wines said that when she ran with groups organized around race or ethnicity, she found that they were also welcoming of all sizes and paces.

“People that aren’t in the majority, they know what it’s like,” she said.

Black Men Run, a running group founded in 2013, warming up at Tempe Beach Park before their early morning run, in Phoenix, Ariz. on July 13, 2019.

Sudoku

How to Play:

Fill in the empty fields with the numbers from 1 through 9.

Sudoku Rules:

Every row must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every column must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every 3x3 square must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Crossword

Crossword #9T2VQ29T

Down

1. "We're not supplying liquor"

2. Amtrak transportation

3. Rations

4. Lipton competitor

5. Nothing to write home about

6. "With the jawbone of ____"

7. Ten: Pref.

8. God, to a Rastafarian

9. Dotes on 10. Grind with the teeth

11. Low-calorie, in beer names 12. They're picked in Hawaii 13. Pitcher Blyleven 19. Manly to the max

Descriptive wd.

Apply, as ointment

Do road repair

Napoleon, on Elba

Lena of jazz

Soviet rifles, for short

"I'll pay whatever you're asking"

area

57. Another name for Jupiter

59. ____ capacitor ("Back to the Future"

gadget)

60. Refrain from eating

62. Suffix with web

Answers on page 38

Aries (Mar 21-April 20)

When opportunity knocks, get ready to dive in and grab it. You could go from bewailing your lot to celebrating your luck today, if you take timely action. What comes your way may not be exactly what you were hoping for, but it could bring great benefits. Seize the day Aries, and take a chance, as with patience this move could work well and bring more money over the long-term.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

The future starts now, with an idea that is too good to pass by. You may hear or read a story about someone you can relate to, who has succeeded against the odds. And the truth is Taurus, that you have the patience and stamina to do it too. If you’re frustrated by your current circumstances, step up to the plate and take actions that free you. You certainly won’t regret it.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Are doubts creeping in, Gemini? If they are, you’ll need to give yourself a good talking to. And with go-getter Mars in your sign, replacing self-defeating thoughts with those that bring strength, courage and confidence, should be easy. You may need to fake it til you make it, but even if you feel uncomfortable, you can soon grow into your role and be seen as clever and competent.

Cancer (June 22-July 23)

Someone has your back, Cancer. While they could have kept a hot opportunity to themselves, it looks like they want you to benefit too. Don’t wait around to see what others are doing, instead take full advantage now. There are some things that will not wait, and this could be one of them. Even it if takes you out of your comfort zone, it’s worth having a go. It could be your making.

Leo (July 24-Aug 23)

As the Moon continues in your sign and forges a lively angle with Mars, curiosity about a group or club that syncs with your interests, could increase. If you join, you’ll get access to an instant circle of friends who share your passion. Plus, a conversation could reveal an idea that shakes you to the core. You’ll wish you’d thought of it yourself, but at least you can act on it, Leo.

Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 23)

Is a friend trying to micromanage your social schedule, and expecting you to turn up to events they want you to attend? Do you even have any say in the matter? This is not an ideal situation, especially if they become manipulative when you decline. A sparkling aspect can inspire you not to give in, even if it means more hassle. Say no now, and it should be easier next time, Virgo.

Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23)

Feeling in a muddle? Clarify your intentions to avoid further confusion. As the Moon forges an edgy angle with Neptune, you may be less inclined to focus on what needs to be done. If you can simplify your schedule, it will assist you greatly. The emphasis on the sign of Pisces increases this tendency to drift and dream, so a daily to-do list will help you now and over coming weeks.

Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)

Even if you do have decisions to make, you might be inclined to step back and detach from the world, so that you have time to think. The only issue with this, is that your thinking will be subjective rather than objective. Involving a close friend or confidant in your thought processes can be an aid to clarity, and lead you to solutions that you can work with much more easily.

Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

Feel you have less control over events that are happening at home? This may be because of a blend of energies that encourages you to be receptive to life, rather than proactive. Switching perspectives and taking control of the situation that needs addressing the most, allows you to feel empowered and easily able to find the best solutions. Ready to party? It’s a day to celebrate.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)

Since revolutionary Uranus has been in your leisure zone, you may feel more comfortable about engaging with interests and people that are unique. You and another might complement each other perfectly, and it could be because you appreciate each other’s special qualities and values. For you, this can be very freeing, and an encounter with this person will leave you on a high.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb 19)

A sizzling blend of energies suggests you might prefer social pastimes and the opportunity to mingle. Social events could be rewarding, and might coincide with encounters that open new doors for you. Someone you meet may ask you to collaborate on a plan or project. But there is also potential for a romance to take off, and it could turn into a real love adventure.

Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

You may be ready to make a decision concerning a long-held dream, and whether you should take it further. The cosmos suggests that if you do nothing, fate will take its course and lead you along the path of least resistance. If you take control, then the outcome could be different, and see you developing a resolve and determination that you didn’t know you had, Pisces.

Speed Bump