Thursday Sep 28, 2023

The San Juan Star

Step Right Up

Brooks Robinson, 1937-2023: Nobody Played Third Base Better

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UPR President Recommends New Interim Chancellor for Medical Sciences Campus; Governing Board to Evaluate Candidate Today

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Puerto Rico Isn’t Maui, but Climate Change & Risky Practices Keep Forest Fire Units Busier Than Ever

Jenniffer González Colón Announces She Is Running for Governor

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.

UPR president recommends new interim chancellor for Medical Sciences Campus

By THE STAR STAFF

University of Puerto Rico (UPR) President Luis Ferrao Delgado has recommended the appointment of Dharma Vázquez Torres, a professor in the Graduate School of Public Health, as interim chancellor of UPR’s Medical Sciences Campus (RCM by its Spanish initials).

UPR governing board member Herman Cestero said the new candidate is slated to be evaluated at a meeting today.

The news came Wednesday, a day after the governing board voted to remove Ilka Ríos Reyes as RCM chancellor following a week of protests against her appointment. Students and some faculty were protesting against Ríos for reaching an agreement with a minor-aged medical student and her parents to avoid a lawsuit because the School of Medicine had failed to provide the student the required help due to her age. Before leaving her post, Ríos said she asked federal authorities to investigate whether the young girl’s rights were violated when her academic file was made public. She also said the campus is the target of a commonwealth comptroller’s probe.

INDEX

appointment of an interim chancellor is confirmed.

The RCM has had at least six chancellors over the past five years, which may hinder its ability to meet governance requirements imposed by accrediting agencies.

The governing board decided to oust Ríos using a referendum instead of discussing the situation at a board meeting.

A letter sent by Ferrao to the chairman of the UPR governing board, Ricardo Dalmau, shows that he also considered José Hawayek, Deborah Silva and Lelis Nazario, all School of Medicine professors, for the RCM chancellor job. He also considered Wanda Maldonado, from the School of Pharmacy, for the position.

For now, Carmen L. Cadilla, dean of Academic Affairs at the RCM, is acting as pro tempore chancellor until the

“In my opinion, this is barbaric and highly irresponsible that, for such an important decision, an extraordinary inperson meeting was not held where all members of the board could have the opportunity to discuss in their entirety the events that took place for President Ferrao to decide to ask Dr. Ríos to resign,” former UPR President José Saldaña said. “Likewise, it has been a great irresponsibility and lack of respect and consideration that this board had not summoned Chancellor Ríos so that she could offer her version of what was happening on campus.”

González Colón announces she will seek governorship

By THE STAR STAFF

New Progressive Party Vice President Jenniffer González Colón announced on Wednesday that she will seek to be the party’s candidate for governor of Puerto Rico in 2024.

“In the face of these challenges and listening to your continued calls, I have made the decision to step forward and assume the responsibility of earning your trust and support to, with the favor of God, become the next governor of Puerto Rico,” González Colón said in her message.

The announcement sets up a primary race between the resident commissioner and the incumbent governor, Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia.

“I want to work for you,” González Colón said in her message. “Always speaking to you with the truth about what we have and where we are going. I will work tirelessly for you and your family. For that dream that we all long for. Now more than ever that my family will be bigger, I aspire to leave them and you a better Puerto Rico than we have. I promise that I will do it. We are going to do it. With you

we will do it.”

During the message, González Colón criticized the island reconstruction process, the electrical system and the performance of LUMA Energy, as well as the permitting process.

“As resident commissioner I have sought the largest amount of federal funds in the history of Puerto Rico and no one can debate that; those are the facts,” she said. “Today there is a real possibility that much of those funds could be lost because they have not even been spent. The government today enjoys great economic prosperity and yet that effect has not been reflected in your pocket, which seems to get smaller and smaller every day.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Pierluisi said he will prevail in a primary against González Colón, and he will aim to win it resoundingly.

“So I have no doubt that I will prevail not only in a primary, but also in the general election,” the governor said in response to questions from the press. “As for a primary, if it materializes, what I want is to win it decisively, because that helps me, it propels me to the election.”

Prof. Dharma Vázquez Torres

TS Philippe to pass over PR as a tropical depression between Sunday & Monday

By THE STAR STAFF

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami reported Wednesday that Tropical Storm Philippe has strengthened and that Puerto Rico, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, and the Northern Leeward Islands should monitor its progress, though it should pass over Puerto Rico as a tropical depression between Sunday and Monday.

According to the NHC, at 11 a.m. the Philippe’s center was located about 620 miles (995 kilometers) east of the Northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 50 miles per hour (85 km/h) and moving westward at 9 miles per hour (15 km/h).

Philippe is expected to maintain its west-

ward to west-northwestward direction over the next few days. Although maximum winds have increased, little change in intensity is forecast over the next day or two, and gradual weakening over the weekend is projected. The storm’s wind gusts extend up to 205 miles (335 km) from its center and the estimated minimum central pressure is 998 mb (29.47 inches).

As for rainfall, Philippe could dump 2 to 4 inches of rain on the Northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands and eastern Puerto Rico from Friday through Monday. In western Puerto Rico, 1 to 2 inches are expected to accumulate. Rains could cause flooding in urban areas and of small streams in isolated areas.

Edwin Mundo says division in NPP, PDP will deliver La Fortaleza to PIP

By THE STAR STAFF

Edwin Mundo, the alternate electoral commissioner of the New Progressive Party (NPP), said Wednesday that divisions in the NPP and the Popular Democratic Party (PDP) will give the governorship to the Puerto Rican Independence Party (PIP).

“I propose it to the people of the party that 25 municipalities are lost by 500 votes, that they lose 16 [House] seats that are won or lost by 500 votes, that senatorial seats are lost and the most terrible is that with a division in the [PDP] and a division in our party, independence wins and takes us to a republic as has happened in Venezuela, in Cuba, in Nicaragua, in those countries that improvise in power and to remove them you

have to look for the National Guard,” Mundo said in a radio interview.

“They are going to unite even if they are not in one party and they are going to vote mixed for each other and they have a chance if it comes together if we are divided,” he added.

“If we stand together behind statehood they have no chance. If we divide and the popular leftists divide and go to Victoria Ciudadana [Citizen Victory Movement] and the PIP, we run the risk that in 2025 instead of swearing in an NPP governor, an independentista governor will be sworn in.”

Mundo said “statehood” in Puerto Rico reaches more than 675,100 voters, but he fears that a split in the party will cause more than 100,000 voters to stay home on election day next year.

“It’s going to depend on how the primary is conducted and how we’re going to stick

together,” he said. “Nobody wants the primaries, only those who seek it.”

Bill filed in House to investigate LUMA service in mountain towns

By THE STAR STAFF

House District 26 Rep. Jesús Hernández Arroyo filed a resolution this week that seeks to investigate the conditions of infrastructure, its maintenance and the quality of the service provided by LUMA Energy in the municipalities of Villalba, Orocovis, Coamo and Barranquitas.

“We continue to address the demands of my people in the District,” Hernández Arroyo said in a press release. “This time I am promoting this investigation to address the issue of constant interruptions and the lack of maintenance by LUMA Energy in the mountain towns. Our citizens deserve efficient service and especially when the cost of electricity is higher every day.”

The resolution seeks to have the Integrated Development of the Southern Region and Transportation & Infrastructure committees in the House of Representatives investigate existing electric power service needs in the mountain towns.

The legislator, who chairs the Committee on Economic Development, Planning, Telecommunications, Public-Private Partnerships and Energy in the House, added that “the constant increases in electricity service in the country are abusive.”

“Recently it was announced that Puerto Ricans would have another economic burden with the increase in rates in the service,” he said. “... Our citizens cannot stand another increase, and especially when the service offered is terrible and does not meet the demands of a country tired and annoyed by the situation.”

A photo provided by NOAA shows Tropical Storm Philippe in the Atlantic Ocean, on Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023. (NOAA via The New York Times)

New Progressive Party Alternate Electoral Commissioner Edwin Mundo

Rep. Jesús Hernández Arroyo

Learning from a wildfire tragedy

Forest fire fighter: Puerto Rico isn’t Maui, but climate change coupled with carelessness means ever greater risk

By RICHARD GUTIÉRREZ richardsanjuanstar@gmail.com

Early last month, the Hawaiian island of Maui suffered a devastating tragedy when a fast-moving wildfire engulfed the seaside resort town of Lahaina, reducing it to ash and claiming the lives of at least 97 people, according to the authorities and The New York Times.

Needless to say, many wish the horrific event hadn’t happened in the first place. However, if anything positive can be taken from the situation, it is the knowledge that has been gathered from it, not just for Hawaii but for the rest of the world as well. That goes double for other tropical islands such as Puerto Rico. While the climate in Puerto Rico is quite different from that of Hawaii, which is much drier than the “Island of Enchantment,” wildfires are still common in Puerto Rico and tragedies are not out of the question.

Luis R. Nuñez Quiñonez, a member of the Puerto Rico Firefighters Bureau’s forest fire force, northern brigade, spoke with the STAR at the San Juan Metro Firefighters Station this week to shed some light on the possibility, if any, of something like what occurred in Maui happening in the Caribbean archipelago.

“In recent years wildfires have become very frequent, which is why the Puerto Rico Firefighters Bureau has created five different wildfire force brigades as of late,” Nuñez Quiñonez told the STAR in an exclusive interview. “Within these wildfire force brigades there’s the northern brigade; Guánica, which covers the southwest region of the island; Guayanilla; Ponce; and Juncos.”

“In this year, from January 1 to September 1, there’ve been nearly 3,000 cases of wildfires all around the island,” he added. “In the northern region, which is my turf, there have been 415 cases of wildfires and whenever any of the other brigades needs our help, we’re here

to give them support.”

As to why wildfires are becoming so common, Nuñez Quiñonez had a quite simple answer.

“It’s climate change,” he said. “Temperatures are much higher, and the climate is much drier. Besides climate, the other large factor is people’s lack of education. … Here in Puerto Rico, most fires are actually caused by people. Sometimes this has to do with people clearing their land. In the coastal areas it’s usually crabbers. They use heat to make the crabs crawl out of the water. [I] can’t say specifically how that works, but the fact is that most fires that happen in that regard have to do with the techniques they use to get the critters out.”

In short, climate change has been a big contributor to wildfires occurring more frequently on the island, and people’s lack of education isn’t helping.

When asked, Nuñez Quiñonez said no firefighters from Puerto Rico participated in the Maui wildfire response action. However, many in the local force, Nuñez Quiñonez included, looked at the situation and took notes.

“What happened in Maui was a very particular situation because of the fact that climate was not in their favor, basically in every aspect,” he said. “The flames were already there, the climate was excessively dry and there was a small storm occurring, which means winds [from Hurricane Dora, whose eye was over 800 miles away] inevitably sent the flames out of control, spreading all over the place.”

“Another thing is that this is a place that had never been burned before,” Nuñez Quiñonez noted. “There was a lot of combustible material, which refers to anything that can be easy to burn such as: dry trees, leaves on the ground. That only aggravates the situation.”

He also pointed out that wood construction, to one degree or another, is fairly commonplace on Maui.

Considering the difference in climate and construction materials, how possible is it that something like the Maui wildfire could happen in Puerto Rico? While it’s highly unlikely, Nuñez Quiñonez says people shouldn’t let

their guard down.

“We can never say for sure that this could never happen in Puerto Rico because in the end, nature calls the shots, though the chances are unlikely,” he said. “One of the reasons it is unlikely is because houses here are not built the same way. Rooftops of houses in Maui were mostly made of wood and metal, which inevitably caused the fire to spread even more, while in Puerto Rico houses are made of concrete and cement.”

“It is much more difficult for something like this to happen in Puerto Rico,” Nuñez Quiñonez reiterated. “We have a lot more firefighters around closer to neighborhoods, which means fires can be attacked quicker, and the climate here is very different from the climate over there. In order for spontaneous fires to occur, relative humidity must be at least between 10% and 15%; here relative humidity is normally around 60%, temperatures must be over 100 degrees as well in order for spontaneous fires to happen. Here in Puerto Rico rain is a very helpful part that we have.”

Nuñez Quiñonez also told the STAR that besides the firefighters, “citizens also must take responsibility in order for wildfires not to occur.”

“The quicker people act, and the quicker firefighters are notified about the situation, the quicker they can act,” he said. “Mitigation is the first step. People need to stop using fire to clear their land, and crab fishers need to find more ecological ways to fish out crabs because sure, you got your crabs, but you’ve destroyed the crab’s habitat and that takes a lot of time to be renewed.”

“Having less organic material around is also important, because the less combustible material there is laying around means firefighters can get to the place faster and take care of the

flames, because the flames have less ground to stand on in a sense,” Nuñez Quiñonez added. “Which is why leaves and other organic material should be buried underground or disposed of.”

The overall most important thing that the wildfire specialist believes needs to be reinforced as much as possible is educating people.

“The harm from a moment of simply burning something to achieve a simple task that can be done another way, can be much greater than what people think,” Nuñez Quiñonez said. “I was reading about how much oxygen a person breathes on a day-to-day basis, which is around 7,200-8,600 liters of oxygen, which [in turn] is around 22 trees a day, and when wildfires occur, thousands of trees are burned.”

“People’s education on wildfires has gotten much better as of late, but we cannot rest on our laurels; we have to continue educating people as much as possible on the dangers and consequences that forest fires have in Puerto Rico, and anywhere in general,” he said. “It used to be worse back then and it’s much better now. People are more educated, but we have to give people even more education in order to guarantee a community that continues to have fewer fires.”

Luis R. Nuñez Quiñonez, second from left, and fellow members of the Puerto Rico Firefighters Bureau forest fire force’s northern brigade are seen at the Metro Firefighters Station in San Juan this week. (Photo by Richard Gutiérrez/The San Juan Daily Star)

Members of one of the island’s five forest fire brigades engage with a brush fire. (Photo courtesy of the Puerto Rico Firefighters Bureau)

House evaluates consumer complaints on solar panels

By THE STAR STAFF

The Consumer Rights Committee in the island House of Representatives held a public hearing Wednesday on two measures to investigate the problems faced by buyers of solar panel systems.

The first is House Resolution (HR) 570, whose purpose is to investigate the complaints and problems faced by consumers of solar panel systems in Puerto Rico. The second is HR 813, authored by Rep. Ángel Matos García, to investigate the increase in complaints over solar panels.

“The rise in demand for the solar energy system has unleashed a series of deceptive practices by some panel companies that has resulted in multiple complaints to the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO by its Spanish acronym), a situation that warrants this Committee to investigate, even more so when the Department of Housing has been implementing a solar panel installation project with subsidies from the federal government,” Committee Chairwoman Estrella Martínez Soto said.

Alejandro Figueroa, a lawyer with Legal Services of Puerto Rico (SLPR), said requests for services related to problems and situations with solar panels have increased.

He noted that from 2022 to the present, the SLPR has received about 27 requests for services regarding consumer problems with solar panel systems.

“Many service seekers are older adults, and the situations they present are very similar, which we classify as systemic issues facing this population,” he said.

Figueroa stated that among the most common problems consumers face with photovoltaic systems is that the sellers do not explain the processes well, they take signatures in digital format, and the consumers believe that it is only to verify data and credit. Then the sellers tell them that, in effect, that was the service contract.

“These situations cause great dissatisfaction among consumers and then the processes of filing complaints with administrative agencies such as DACO and the Puerto Rico Energy Bureau begin,” Figueroa said.

“It is necessary to protect the rights of consumers who acquire these systems to establish the jurisdiction of regulatory agencies to deal with complaints, to regulate contractual aspects, to oblige companies to comply with guarantees, and to penalize for non-compliance,” he added.

Assistant Housing Secretary Frances Rivera Torres said the agency will carry out inspections of the installed systems and will make note of any indication of deficiency, if any, and that the renewable energy installation company will have a period of 45 days to carry out the required corrections.

“Housing will provide participants with a satisfaction form to help us identify poor installers,” she said.

2 men plead guilty in attack on transgender woman who was later found dead

By AMANDA HOLPUCH

Two men linked to an attack with a paintball gun on a transgender woman in Toa Baja pleaded guilty earlier this week to conspiracy to commit a hate crime. The case prompted an outcry on the island after the victim was found dead just hours after video of the assault was recorded.

The killing of the woman, Alexa Negrón Luciano, in February 2020 remains unsolved, and no one has been charged in her death, though it brought renewed attention to violence against gay and transgender people in Puerto Rico. The FBI is seeking information from the public to help with the investigation.

On Monday, Jordany Rafael Laboy García and Christian Yamaurie Rivera Otero pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court in San Juan to conspiracy to commit a hate crime and obstruction of justice in connection with the assault, Justice Department officials said.

On Feb. 23, 2020, someone posted photographs on social media that showed Negrón, who was 29 and homeless, being questioned by police after she had used the women’s bathroom at a McDonald’s in Toa Baja, according to the indictment.

The next day at about 12:29 a.m., Laboy García and Rivera Otero were in a vehicle when they saw Negrón standing under a tent on the side of the road in Toa Baja, the Justice Department said in a news release. A third man, Anthony Steven Lobos Ruiz, was also in the car.

Lobos Ruiz used an iPhone to record himself making “disparaging and threatening comments” to Negrón from inside the car, which included yelling “la loca, la loca,” or “the crazy woman, the crazy woman,” prosecutors said.

The men left and returned within 30 minutes with a paintball gun and recorded video of Laboy García firing paintballs at Negrón, prosecutors said.

Lobos Ruiz shared the videos with others, according to the Justice Department. Several hours later, he and Laboy García sent text messages to each other, agreeing to delete the videos to hide their involvement in the assault.

Negrón was found murdered on the side of the road in Toa Baja that same day.

The killing of Negrón received significant attention in Puerto Rico and beyond. Days after her death, Puerto Rican pop superstar Bad Bunny appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” wearing a white T-shirt that said in Spanish, “They killed Alexa, not a man in a skirt.”

W. Stephen Muldrow, the U.S. attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, said in a statement that the Justice Department would “continue to vigorously defend the rights of all people, regardless of their gender identity, to be free from hate-fueled violence.”

“To assault an innocent victim who posed no threat to the defendants for no other reason than her gender identity is reprehensible behavior that will not be tolerated,” Muldrow said.

In November, Lobos Ruiz was sentenced to 33 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting others in the attempted assault of Negrón because she was transgender. He had admitted to obtaining the paintball gun to injure Negrón and to recording the assault on his iPhone and sharing the video with other people.

Lobos Ruiz was represented by the federal public defender’s office, which does not comment on cases. At Lobos Ruiz’s sentencing hearing, he said he was sorry for mocking Negrón, El Nuevo Día reported. “I am ashamed

of myself and of what I was in my past,” Lobos Ruiz said in Spanish.

A sentencing hearing for Laboy García and Rivera Otero has not been scheduled.

Lawyers for the two men did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

There were 44 transgender or gender-nonconforming people killed across the United States in 2020, and six of them, including Negrón, were killed in Puerto Rico, according to the Human Rights Campaign, an advocacy group for LGBTQ rights. Last year, at least 34 transgender or gender nonconforming people were killed across the United States, a vast majority of them Black, the Human Rights Campaign said in a report released in November.

Rep. Estrella Martínez Soto

A photo provided by the FBI shows Alexa Negrón Luciano, who was found dead hours after several men attacked her with a paintball gun and recorded the incident in Toa Baja, in February 2020. (FBI via The New York Times)

Menéndez pleads not guilty to bribery charges

One of the businesspeople, Wael Hana, a U.S. citizen born in Egypt, was arrested Tuesday morning at Kennedy International Airport after he voluntarily flew to the United States from Egypt to face federal charges in Manhattan, his lawyer said. He pleaded not guilty hours later, surrendered his passport and was granted release on a $5 million personal recognizance bond.

The two other businesspeople charged with bribery, Fred Daibes, a New Jersey real estate developer, and Jose Uribe, who works in the trucking industry, also pleaded not guilty Wednesday.

The conspiracy as alleged by prosecutors was far-reaching and depicted a web of corruption that even one of the senator’s closest allies, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, called shocking and disturbing.

company, according to the indictment, to funnel bribes to the Menendezes.

The New Jersey-based company, IS EG Halal, reported little to no income until April 2019, when the Egyptian government gave it exclusive rights to certify meat coming from the United States, even though Hana had no experience in the industry, state and federal records show. Until then, four companies had divided the work.

“Seems like halal went through,” Nadine Menendez said in a text to the senator, the indictment said. “It might be a fantastic 2019 all the way around.”

By TRACEY TULLY, BENJAMIN WEISER and LOLA FADULU

Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey pleaded not guilty Wednesday to bribery charges, standing before a magistrate judge in Manhattan federal court, his wife, Nadine, seated nearby.

About three hours earlier, the Menendezes had held hands as they pushed through a crowd of journalists and entered the courthouse without answering questions. A lone protester shouted “Resign!”

Nadine Menendez, 56, also entered

a not-guilty plea for her role in the bribery conspiracy, which prosecutors said involved weapons sales and aid to the government of Egypt. In a 39-page indictment unsealed last week, they also described efforts by Bob Menendez, a powerful Democrat, to strong arm prosecutors in New Jersey in an attempt to influence criminal investigations.

In exchange, prosecutors said, the couple accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars, bars of gold bullion and a MercedesBenz convertible — bribes given by three New Jersey businesspeople who were also charged in the yearslong corruption scheme.

Menendez, 69, has said in recent days that he was confident that he would be exonerated once the facts were fully presented, and he has cautioned against a rush to judgment. He has rejected calls from a growing number of top Democrats, including Gov. Phil Murphy and Booker, to step down.

The scheme involved payments by Hana, Daibes and Uribe to Menendez and his wife in exchange for the senator’s efforts to direct federal aid and weapons sales to Egypt, according to the indictment.

The plot also benefited Hana’s halal meat business, prosecutors said, which eventually won a contract to be the sole entity worldwide permitted by Egypt to certify that imported food products had been prepared according to Islamic law. Hana used his

When a high-level U.S. Department of Agriculture official publicly objected to the monopoly, concerned that it could increase the cost of food in Egypt and disrupt U.S. markets, Bob Menendez tried to silence the official, the indictment said.

Bob Menendez is also accused of intervening in criminal investigations involving people tied to the Egyptian scheme.

Investigators found $550,000 in cash, 13 bars of gold bullion and the Mercedes during a June 2022 search of a safe deposit box in Nadine Menendez’s name and the couple’s home in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.

The charges came after a lengthy investigation led by the FBI and prosecutors in the Southern District of New York. Much of the alleged activity occurred in New Jersey. But prosecutors noted that parts of the conspiracy, including a dinner meeting and sales of gold in Manhattan, and the use of a bank account first opened in the Bronx, took place within the Southern District’s jurisdiction.

Groundswell of Democrats builds calling on Menéndez to resign

By ANNIE KARNI

Astampede of Senate Democrats led by some of the party’s most endangered incumbents rushed forward earlier this week calling for Sen. Robert Menendez of New Jersey to resign, a day after he defiantly vowed to fight federal corruption charges and predicted he would be exonerated.

Even as Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, the majority leader, defended Menendez as a “dedicated public servant” and refused to publicly move to push him out, the drumbeat for Menendez to step down grew from

within his ranks. That left Schumer in a difficult position, caught between his role as the leader and defender of all Senate Democrats and the political imperative of cutting loose a member of his caucus who had become a political liability in an already difficult slog to keep the party’s Senate majority.

The most notable call for Menendez to go came from Sen. Cory Booker, the junior senator from New Jersey who has long been a close friend and fierce defender of Menendez. Booker, who testified as a character witness for Menendez during his first corruption trial, said the “shocking allegations of corruption” were

“hard to reconcile with the person I know.”

He added, “I believe stepping down is best for those Sen. Menendez has spent his life serving.”

His statement came amid a flood of calls by Democrats running for reelection next year in politically competitive states, who appeared eager to distance themselves from Menendez. The third-term senator was indicted last week on bribery charges in what prosecutors alleged was a sordid scheme that included abusing his power as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to benefit Egypt.

Sen. Jon Tester of Montana, who is run-

ning in a state that former President Donald Trump won by more than 16 points in 2020, said Menendez needed to go “for the sake of the public’s faith in the U.S. Senate.” Sen. Sherrod Brown of Ohio, a onetime bellwether state that has shifted sharply to the right over the past two presidential election cycles, said Menendez had “broken the public trust and should resign from the U.S. Senate.”

And Sen. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, who launched her reelection bid in a battleground state by predicting that her race would decide control of the Senate, said the corruption

Continues on page 8

Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) and his wife, Nadine Menendez, leave their arraignment at Federal District Court in Lower Manhattan, on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. (Dave Sanders/ The New York Times)

Groundswell of Democrats builds...

From page 7

charges were a “distraction that undermines the bipartisan work we need to do in the Senate for the American people.”

Democrats view the fact that they were able to get all of their vulnerable senators to run for reelection in 2024 as their biggest source of strength in their quest to hold on to their slim majority next year.

By noon, those vulnerable Democrats had helped open the floodgates, with more than a dozen Democratic senators from across the country joining them and rushing to release statements calling for Menendez’s resignation before their weekly lunch in the Capitol. By the end of the day, at least 24 Democratic senators — almost half the caucus — had reached the conclusion that their colleague needed to go.

Booker often has described Menendez, the senior senator, as a friend, ally and mentor. But the nature of the charges — along with the political landscape of the state — appeared to have played a role in changing his mind.

Even before the latest indictment was announced, opinion polls indicated that public support for Menendez was waning, said Patrick Murray, director of the Polling Institute at Monmouth University in New Jersey.

During Menendez’s first criminal indictment, “New Jersey voters, and particularly Democrats, were willing to give him the benefit of the doubt,” Murray said. “This time, public opinion is different.”

The floodgates may have opened Tuesday, but it took Democrats in the Senate days to get around to condemning their colleague.

On Friday, Menendez stepped down temporarily as chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, under the rules put in place by his own party, but Schumer defended his right to remain in office. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, said any decision about Menendez’s future in the Senate was “going to be up to him and the Senate leadership.”

A lone Democratic voice over the weekend adding to calls for Menendez to go was Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who hails from another battleground state. He vowed to return campaign donations from Menendez’s leadership political action committee in envelopes stuffed with $100 bills — an apparent reference to the indictment against Menendez, which said investigators found jackets and envelopes stuffed with cash at his home, allegedly containing the fruits of the senator’s corrupt dealings.

Fetterman, who has come under criticism from his colleagues for pressing for a

dress code change in the fusty Senate to accommodate his shorts-and-hoodie uniform, on Tuesday said he hoped his Democratic colleagues would “fully address the alleged systematic corruption of Sen. Menendez with the same vigor and velocity they brought to concerns about our dress code.”

Rep. Nancy Pelosi, the former House speaker from California, on Monday night also weighed in on the Menendez scandal, helping wedge open the door for detractors, saying on MSNBC that it would “probably be a good idea” for him to resign.

Some Republicans, on the other hand, jumped to Menendez’s defense, arguing that Democrats should have to weather the political consequences of his conduct.

“He should be judged by jurors and New Jersey’s voters, not by Democratic politicians who now view him as inconvenient to their hold on power,” Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., wrote on X, previously Twitter.

Speaker Kevin McCarthy, however, said Saturday that Menendez should go, arguing that the case laid out by prosecutors was “pretty black and white.” In contrast, McCarthy, R-Calif., has defended one of his own indicted members, Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., saying that it was not up to him to decide whether he should represent his district.

“You know why I’m standing by him? Because his constituents voted for him,” McCarthy said of Santos in January.

Menendez won reelection in 2018 by a 12-point margin.

On Tuesday, McCarthy appeared to change his position on Menendez, telling reporters that “it could be his choice with what he wants to do.”

Sen. Cory Booker, (D-N.J.) takes an escalator at the Capitol on Tuesday, July 11, 2023.

Senate reaches spending deal to head off government shutdown

By CARL HULSE and CATIE EDMONDSON

Senate Republicans and Democrats reached agreement earlier this week on a stopgap spending plan that would head off a government shutdown Sunday while providing billions in disaster relief and aid to Ukraine, but the measure faced resistance in the Republican-led House.

The legislation cleared its first procedural obstacle Tuesday night on a bipartisan vote of 77-19. It would keep government funding flowing through Nov. 17 to allow more time for negotiations over yearlong spending bills and provide about $6 billion for the Ukraine war effort as well as approximately $6 billion for disaster relief in the wake of a series of wildfires and floods.

Senate leaders hoped to pass it by the end of the week and send it to the House in time to avert a shutdown now set to begin at midnight Saturday. But there was no guarantee that Speaker Kevin McCarthy would bring the legislation to the House floor for a vote, since some farright Republicans have said they would try to remove him from his post if he did.

Still, in putting the legislation forward, Senate leaders in both parties were ratcheting up the pressure on McCarthy, who countered by declaring Tuesday night that he would put a stopgap spending plan of his own that would “secure our border and keep government open” to a vote later in the week.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the Senate agreement “will continue to fund the government at present levels while maintaining our commitment to Ukraine’s security and humanitarian needs while also ensuring those impacted by disasters across the country begin to get the resources they need.”

Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, the top Republican on the Appropriations Committee, urged her colleagues to support the plan, warning that shutdowns “do not accomplish the goals that people who advocate government shutdowns think will be accomplished.”

“I’ve been through two government shutdowns,” Collins said, “and I can tell you they are never good policy.”

The Senate proposal would meet stiff resistance from House Republicans because it includes assistance for Ukraine that many of them oppose and maintains federal funding at current levels. Many House Republicans are demanding steep cuts in even an interim funding plan. As a result, McCarthy would need Democratic votes to pass it, and leaning on Democrats would stir a backlash from his own party.

It was unclear whether McCarthy would even be able to muster the votes in his party to advance the stopgap funding plan he floated Tuesday night. Some Republicans have flatly declared they will refuse to support any short-term measure that funds the government in one up-or-down vote.

McCarthy challenged his hard-right flank to support the plan, saying voting against such a measure would effectively “support what is currently happening on the border.”

“This is a stopgap funding bill to keep government open and secure the border,” he told reporters. “I don’t

know anyone who is opposed to that. I think that’s where people would want to be.”

At the same time, House Republicans finally broke the procedural logjam that had paralyzed the House for two weeks in a 216-212 vote, and began moving ahead with debate over four annual spending bills, in a nod to the demands of the hard-right flank of the party that had demanded lawmakers take up and pass individual appropriations bills.

But even if Republicans were able to pass them, which was far from certain, their approval would do nothing to alleviate the threat of a shutdown because there was not sufficient time to negotiate the measures with the Senate.

Senate leaders were hoping the strong bipartisan support for their interim funding bill would represent a show of strength to encourage McCarthy to take up the legislation if it reached the House. Some Senate Republicans backed it despite being uneasy that no new border security was included in the plan but saw moving ahead with the bill as a necessary first step toward skirting a shutdown most viewed as damaging as a matter of both politics and policy.

Senate negotiators had considered trying to move forward with a stopgap bill that would simply maintain funding at current levels, considering that might be the least complicated path for McCarthy.

But senators of both parties pressed for some assistance to Ukraine, arguing that to ignore the Biden administration’s request for more aid would be an affront to the U.S. ally after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a personal appeal to members of Congress just last week. Both the Ukraine money and disaster recovery funding are seen as down payments on the full amounts requested by the Biden administration — nearly $25 billion for Ukraine and $16 billion for the disaster recovery fund.

Senators also were hoping that the extra natural disaster aid would attract votes from those who have expressed opposition about backing more funding for Ukraine, but might be unwilling to vote against help for hard-hit states closer to home, such as Hawaii and Florida.

Still, the Ukraine assistance will complicate matters in the Senate. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., a libertarian, has threatened to use procedural tools to challenge the aid, potentially delaying the Senate bill’s arrival in the House into the weekend.

The so-called continuing resolution would also extend authority for expiring Federal Aviation Administration programs through the end of the year, extend some community health programs and maintain higher pay for those fighting wildfires as the original source of the firefighting money is running low.

Ave. Luis Muñoz Marín W11 Urb. Mariolga Caguas, Puerto Rico

La Dra. Yolanda Núñez Caballero psicóloga clínica desea anunciar el decomiso de expedientes clínicos inactivos desde el año 2007 a 2013. Pacientes que interesen recoger su expediente deberán comunicarse al (787) 518-7410 a la brevedad posible para coordinar la entrega del mismo. Estarán disponibles hasta el 8/diciembre/23. Los expedientes NO reclamados dentro de ese periodo de tiempo serán decomisados por medio de trituración según dispone la Ley 408 de Salud Mental de Puerto Rico.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) speaks to reporters at the Capitol in Washington, Sept. 26, 2023.

AVISO DE DECOMISO DE EXPEDIENTES INSTITUTO PSICOLÓGICO NUEVOS CAMINOS

Biden joins autoworkers on picket line in Michigan

By KATIE ROGERS and ERICA L. GREEN

President Joe Biden grabbed a bullhorn and joined striking autoworkers in Michigan earlier this week, becoming the first sitting president to join a picket line, in an extraordinary show of support for workers demanding better wages.

Auto companies were doing well, Biden told dozens of workers outside a General Motors facility that employs more than 200 people in Belleville, Michigan, outside Detroit.

“Guess what? You should be doing just as well,” Biden told the crowd, drawing applause. He fist-bumped several members of the United Automobile Workers union.

“You’ve heard me say many times: Wall Street didn’t build this country,” he said. “The middle class built this country. And unions built the middle class. That’s a fact. Let’s keep going. You deserve what you’ve earned, and you’ve earned a hell of a lot more than you get paid now.”

The president’s 15-minute visit on Tuesday, held under gray skies as classic-rock songs by John Mellencamp and Aerosmith played in the background, came at the invitation of UAW President Shawn Fain as Biden tries to solidify support in a key swing state.

Biden’s visit looked like a capstone for a politician who for decades has positioned himself as a champion of the middle class, but other political forces were at play as well. He joined the workers one day before his predecessor and likely 2024 rival, former

President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit a nearby county and deliver remarks to current and former union members.

Biden spoke for only a couple of minutes before turning the bullhorn back to Fain, who has criticized Trump’s planned visit. While the president watched, Fain railed against executives and the billionaire class.

“They think they own the world,” Fain said. “But we make it run.”

The White House has been hesitant to say whether Biden supported what UAW workers were asking for, but when asked whether the workers deserved a 40% pay raise, he responded, “Yes. I think they should be able to bargain for that.”

Automakers, who have argued that wage increases beyond what they have already offered could damage their competitiveness as the industry shifts to embrace electric cars, did not exactly hail the president’s visit. “Our focus is not on politics but continues to be on bargaining in good faith with the UAW leadership to reach an agreement as quickly as possible that rewards our workforce and allows GM to succeed and thrive into the future,” GM said in a statement, adding that “nobody wins” from a strike.

Still, the White House is betting that

Biden’s visit is enough to help counter Trump’s visit to the area and earn the president points with UAW, which backed him in 2020 but has not yet endorsed him, citing concerns over the administration’s push for a transition to electric vehicles.

It is the first time this campaign season that Biden and Trump, whose political styles are as divergent as their visions for the country, will be competing in real time for a powerful bloc of working-class voters.

In one corner, Biden has argued that his clean-energy agenda — including a shift toward electric vehicles — will create new manufacturing jobs, even as companies that make batteries and other electric-vehicle parts resist unionizing their workers.

In another, Trump has channeled the growing frustration among workers who fear for the future of their jobs. “REMEMBER, HE WANTS TO TAKE YOUR JOBS AWAY AND GIVE THEM TO CHINA AND OTHER FOREIGN COUNTRIES,” Trump wrote of Biden on social media Monday, adding, “I WILL KEEP YOUR JOBS AND MAKE YOU RICH!!!”

Officials with both campaigns, of course, have pounced.

“No self-serving photo op can erase Trump’s four years of abandoning union

workers and standing with his ultrarich friends,” Ammar Moussa, a spokesperson for Biden’s campaign, said in a statement.

Jason Miller, a senior adviser for Trump, said the president’s visit showed he was on the defensive.

“This underscores the fact of how perilous Biden’s political footing is: a state that Democrats would have you convinced is safely blue, to talk with a constituency that Democrats would have you convinced are safely in their camp,” Miller said in an interview.

In the White House, Biden’s advisers have insisted that his visit has little to nothing to do with his predecessor’s, though they say Biden’s appearance is sure to strike a contrast with Trump’s planned visit to Drake Enterprises, a nonunion plant in Macomb County.

Michigan is seen as a critical state for Democrats in 2024. While it was one of Trump’s most surprising victories in 2016, Biden carried the state in 2020.

Trump has no plans to meet with Fain, who has publicly criticized the former president’s plans to travel to Michigan. “We can’t keep electing billionaires and millionaires that don’t have any understanding what it is like to live paycheck to paycheck and struggle to get by and expecting them to solve the problems of the working class,” Fain said last week.

Still, many workers in his union have balked at the Biden administration’s proposal of the country’s most ambitious climate regulations, which would ensure that twothirds of new passenger cars are all-electric by 2032, up from 5.8% today.

Biden has stood firmly with UAW, which is calling for increased wages, shorter work hours and expanded benefits from three Detroit automakers: GM, Ford and Stellantis, the parent of Chrysler.

Since the strike began Sept. 15, Biden has been calling on companies and workers to reach an agreement that would spare a ripple effect through the economy that could raise auto prices and disrupt supply chains.

Before making his way to the picket line in Michigan, Biden was asked what it would take to receive the UAW’s endorsement.

“I’m not worried about that,” he replied.

President Joe Biden, right, listens to Shawn Fain, the United Automobile Workers president, speak as he joins picketers at a United Automobile Workers picket line outside a GM parts facility in Belleview, Mich., Sept. 26, 2023.

Global Stocks Extend Sell-Off as Bond Yields Surge

Aglobal index of stocks closed Wednesday’s choppy session slightly lower to extend the previous day’s sharp sell-off, as oil prices rallied and U.S. Treasury yields climbed along with the dollar.

U.S. crude oil futures briefly nudged above $94 per barrel, intensifying concerns about rising gasoline prices and their impact on inflation and consumer spending.

And the dollar index hit a 10-month high as it pushed the euro to a 9-month low, keeping the yen in intervention territory as investors bet the United States will cope better with higher interest rates than other economies.

Stocks and bonds have been dropping in price in recent weeks as investors prepared for the prospect that central bankers will hold interest rates “higher for longer” than previously expected, to try to squeeze inflation out of global economies.

Irene Tunkel, chief U.S. strategist at Montreal-based BCA Research, saw the increase in oil prices, interest rates and the U.S. dollar as a “triple whammy for U.S. equities” as investors worried about the impact on the economy.

And on top of this, they are also monitoring Detroit’s auto worker strikes and as well as the uncertainty of a potential U.S. government shutdown in coming days.

“Investors are filled with apprehension right now over interest rates, the price of oil and labor relations,” said Steven Wieting, chief investment strategist at Citi Global Wealth. “The volatility of the bond market is spilling over into the stock market.”

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 68.61 points, or 0.2%, to 33,550.27, the S&P 500 gained 0.98 points, or 0.02%, to 4,274.51 and the Nasdaq Composite added 29.24 points, or 0.22%, to 13,092.85.

The pan-European STOXX 600 index earlier closed down 0.18%.

MSCI’s gauge of stocks across the globe shed 0.15%. Trading during the day was choppy however with a 0.7% decline at session low and a 0.2% increase at the intraday peak.

Late in the session, Michael James, managing director of equity trading at Wedbush Securities in Los Angeles, said people were looking for a reason to push the market higher given how over-sold it looked.

The global index had lost 1.2% on Tuesday and Wednesday marked its ninth consecutive daily decline. It has fallen 4.7% since the start of September, tracking for its biggest monthly loss in a year.

In U.S. Treasuries, after falling as low as 4.49% earlier in the day, benchmark 10-year notes were up 5.4 basis points to 4.612%, from 4.558% late on Tuesday. The 30-year bond was last up 2.2 basis points to yield 4.718%, from 4.696%. The 2-year note was last was up 6.3 basis points to yield 5.1395%, from 5.077%.

In currencies, investors are on the lookout for government intervention in the Japanese yen as it has been approaching 150 per dollar, which is seen as the level at which Japan could intervene.

MOST ASSERTIVE STOCKS

PUERTO RICO STOCKS COMMODITIES CURRENCY

The yen fell 0.39% versus the greenback at 149.65 per dollar after hitting its weakest level against the U.S. currency in roughly a year.

The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, eying its fourth straight day of gains, was last up 0.461%, while the euro down 0.65% to $1.0501. Sterling was at $1.2133, down 0.20%.

“The U.S. is most able to cope with these new challenges -- higher interest rates and higher energy prices,”

said Marc Chandler, chief market strategist at Bannockburn Global Forex in New York, citing the depth of U.S. capital markets and households that are more immune to rising interest rates.

“Yes, these are major headwinds, but the U.S. still looks like the driest towel on the rack. The news from Europe isn’t really that good,” Chandler added.

Oil prices surged on Wednesday marking their highest settlement in 2023 after a steep drop in U.S. crude stocks compounded worries of tight global supplies.

U.S. crude settled up 3.6% at $93.68 per barrel, in its highest settlement since August 2022. It had touched $94.04 during the session. Brent settled at $96.55, up 2.76% on the day, for its highest settlement since November 2022.

By MATTHEW MPOKE BIGG, ANDREW E. KRAMER, VALERIYA SAFRONOVA and ERIC NAGOURNEY

The killing of an enemy admiral in a missile strike would be a coup for any military, but the celebration in Ukraine over the death of Russia’s Black Sea fleet commander may turn out to be short-lived.

A day after announcing that the admiral was among 34 officers killed in a strike deep behind enemy lines, Ukrainian officials acknowledged Tuesday that there might be some uncertainty.

The Ukrainian military’s statement that it was now “clarifying” whether the admiral, Viktor Sokolov, had in fact been killed in an audacious strike last week in Russian-held Crimea came after Russia released a video Tuesday purporting to show the admiral attending a meeting earlier in the day.

Given Russia’s long history of refusing to acknowledge military setbacks, and the challenges of authenticating its video, it remained uncertain Tuesday whether Sokolov was among those killed in the Ukrainian attack on the headquarters of Moscow’s fleet in Sevastopol.

Russian officials have not commented directly on the status of the officers and have not reported any deaths as a result of the attack.

In the video clip, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu can be seen discussing a drill that he said Russia’s Pacific Fleet had completed a day earlier. An officer who appears to be Sokolov is seen on a video screen, seemingly from another location, but does not speak.

The video has been edited to show the fleet commander’s presence multiple times at the meeting, possibly to offer evidence that he was still alive. The date Sept. 26 is visible on the clip, and it matches the date in the video’s metadata.

For their part, the Ukrainians, even as they acknowledged uncertainty, maintained that Sokolov was among the casualties in the strike Friday.

“According to available sources, the commander of the Black Sea Fleet is among the dead,” the Ukrainian military’s statement said. “Many have not yet been identified due to the fragmentation of body parts.”

It was not known what Ukraine was basing its detailed claims on — both those Tuesday and those in the days after the strike on Sevastopol.

In announcing the death of the fleet commander and 33 other officers Monday, Ukraine said 105 others had been wounded, including two generals it said had sustained serious injuries. It even claimed to know that the missile had hit as Russian commanders were meeting, in what seemed to be an implicit nod to Ukrainian intelligence gathering.

If Ukrainian officials turn out to be wrong, it may not be the first time they have prematurely announced the death of a top-level Russian adversary. Early in the war, Ukraine dealt an embarrassing blow to Russia when it sank its Black Sea flagship, the Moskva. The captain of the vessel was killed in the attack, Ukraine claimed, but then, too, video emerged that showed him seemingly alive and well.

Regardless of whether the new claims bear out, it was beyond dispute Tuesday that Ukraine had managed to pull

off a major strike in the heart of Crimea, which Moscow seized in 2014, before the full-scale invasion began last year. The Russian fleet headquarters was badly damaged in the attack.

Ukraine has been targeting Crimea in an effort to diminish its effectiveness as a supply hub for Russian forces in southern Ukraine who are trying to repel a counteroffensive. Early Tuesday, Russian drones targeted southern Ukraine, hitting port infrastructure, warehouses and dozens of trucks near the Black Sea. It was the second consecutive day of attacks on ports in the Odesa region.

Shortly before the Russian video said to show Sokolov was released Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that responding to Ukraine’s claims about the admiral’s death was “exclusively the prerogative” of the Ministry of Defense and that the Kremlin had “nothing to say here.”

In the war in Ukraine, misinformation is rife, and outright disinformation is a weapon like any other, relied on often by both sides.

The death of Sokolov would be one of the biggest blows to the Russian navy since Ukrainian forces sank the Moskva, a missile cruiser.

At first, Russia denied Ukraine’s assertions, claiming that a fire aboard the ship had forced its return to port. Only eventually did it acknowledge that the ship was lost. The Russian Defense Ministry said the Moskva had “lost its stability due to damage to the hull from the detonation of ammunition” from a fire.

“In stormy sea conditions, the ship sank,” the ministry said.

If the death of Sokolov ends up being confirmed, he would join a long roster of senior Russian military officials killed since Moscow sent its forces across the border into Ukraine in what many predicted would be an easy victory. At least a dozen Russian generals have been reported killed on the front lines.

Did Ukraine really kill a Russian admiral? Questions emerge. Death toll rises after explosion at Nagorno-Karabakh fuel depot

By IVAN NECHEPURENKO

At least 68 people were killed and 105 remained missing after an explosion at a fuel depot in the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, the region’s government said earlier this week. The blast occurred as ethnic Armenians rushing to leave the region were lining up to refuel their cars after a military offensive by Azerbaijan last week.

The revised death toll came after an earlier statement by Armenia’s health minister, Anahit Avanesyan, at a news conference Tuesday in which she said that the remains of 125 people had been transferred from Nagorno-Karabakh to forensic centers in Armenia. At least 67 injured people were moved to the country’s national burn center, she added.

The human rights ombudsman of Nagorno-Karabakh, Gegham Stepanyan, later explained in the government’s official channel on the Telegram messaging app that the 125 were war-related deaths. The Armenian Health Ministry also

later published a clarification on Facebook.

More than 28,000 people have fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia in the past week, part of a mass exodus that began after a sudden military offensive brought the enclave back under Azerbaijan’s control. The shift in power has raised fears of ethnic violence in a region where decades of interethnic hatred have fueled wars, population shifts and atrocities.

The explosion at the fuel depot Monday produced a large fire that lit up the night sky near the region’s capital, Stepanakert, and the cause was not immediately clear.

As of 11 p.m. Tuesday local time, the number of deaths confirmed by the Stepanakert Forensic Medical Examination Bureau as a result of the explosion stood at 68, with the identity of 21 victims confirmed.

Earlier, Nagorno-Karabakh’s Health Ministry said in a statement that emergency workers had taken 290 patients “with various degrees of burns” to four medical facilities after

the blast Monday night.

Seven of those people died, and 13 bodies were recovered at the site and taken to a forensics office, the ministry said. Dozens of patients were still in critical condition, it added.

The sudden influx of victims added to the stress on medical facilities that were already filled to over capacity before the explosion, according to the ministry and a statement from the International Committee of the Red Cross. The committee said that in addition to delivering medical supplies, including specialized burn kits, its teams were helping to arrange medical evacuations by ambulance.

Many more ethnic Armenians were on their way, stuck in the long line of cars, trucks and other vehicles navigating a single, winding mountain road to the border.

Standing on Tuesday amid the chaos of a makeshift refu-

Continues on page 13

Adm. Viktor Sokolov, Russia’s Black Sea fleet commander, in Sevastopol, Crimea, last year.

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gee camp in Kornidzor, the first village on the Armenian side of the border, Samantha Power, head of the U.S. Agency for International Development, urged the government of Azerbaijan to “grant full and unimpeded access” into villages and towns in NagornoKarabakh.

Power said the U.S. government would provide $11.5 million in aid, including food and psychological assistance, in the growing emergency. But she also said that she had heard “troubling reports of violence against civilians” and that she would relay the testimonies to the administration in Washington.

While the process of gathering evidence was just beginning, Power said, she did not rule out sanctions against Azerbaijan if evidence supported the claims. “There are a range of options under active consideration,” Power told reporters.

As she spoke, ambulances raced past ferrying patients and aid, and a stream of cars, buses, heavy-duty trucks and tractors — each packed with people, bags containing basic possessions and sometimes animals — continued to pour out of Nagorno-Karabakh.

The exodus of ethnic Armenians started Sunday, quickly filling the central square of Goris, a town across the border in Armenia. Hour after hour, people looking for shelter and other help poured in, their faces showing both the shock of the hurried journey they had completed and anxiety and confusion about what awaits them.

Edik Aloyan was riding on a huge Soviet Ural truck, sitting on plastic bags and smoking as the vehicle sped away from his ancestral homeland in Nagorno-Karabakh.

“I just took whatever I could, very quickly, just a few shirts,” said Aloyan, 62, adding that he had only half an hour to pack for the trip out of his native Martakert.

The Armenian government said 28,000 displaced people had entered Armenia from Nagorno-Karabakh as of Tuesday night. The breakaway region’s government urged people fleeing the enclave not to rush because all roads in Nagorno-Karabakh had been blocked with traffic.

Recent refugees in Goris said it had taken them up to a full day to get out, and a long line of cars on a serpentine road was visible from the Armenian side of the border. Some refugees traveled in heavy-duty vehicles more commonly used to carry sand and gravel, but now had children, the old and the sick sitting together amid their modest possessions.

Some who had crossed into Armenia said they had trouble reaching relatives and friends still on the other side of the border. A few feared people they knew could have been affected by the deadly fuel explosion Monday.

Death toll from an explosion at a fuel storage depot in Azerbaijan-controlled Nagorno-Karabakh, a region primarily inhabited by Armenians, climbed to 68, according to the Nagorno-Karabakh Human Rights Ombudsman.

Military doctors who are part of the Russian peacekeeping contingent in Nagorno-Karabakh reported on their Telegram messaging account that they were providing emergency assistance to those injured in the explosion. They said 23 people with burns of varying severity had been delivered to the Russian contingent’s medical unit. In a separate post, Russian peacekeepers said they were using their military helicopters to transfer more severely wounded people to Armenia.

Stepanyan, who was elected to the role by the breakaway republic’s lawmakers, said Monday that most of the victims of the explosion were in severe condition, without providing other details, and warned that the region did not have adequate medical facilities.

Authorities in Azerbaijan put their new control of the region on display Tuesday as Hikmet Hajiyev, a high-ranking official, posted a video on X, formerly known as Twitter, showing Azerbaijani police officers distributing water to fleeing Armenians.

Armenians and Azerbaijanis had lived relatively peacefully around Nagorno-Karabakh, a region the size of Rhode Island in the South Caucasus, for decades until the fall of the Soviet Union. Ethnic Armenians took control of the region in 1994 with the backing of the Armenian military.

Azerbaijan led a 44-day war in 2020 against the ethnic Armenian leadership, gaining control of most of the region. Last December, Azerbaijan installed a blockade to the only road connecting Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia, cutting off the region from food and fuel supplies and worsening a humanitarian crisis.

Canadian parliamentary leader quits after honoring Ukrainian who fought for Nazis

By IAN AUSTEN

The speaker of Canada’s House of Commons resigned Tuesday after again apologizing for introducing a 98-year-old Ukrainian who had served with a Nazi SS unit as a “hero” just after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed a joint session of Parliament.

The speaker, Anthony Rota, introduced Yaroslav Hunka, a constituent from his electoral district, as “a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero” on Friday, prompting two standing ovations from the lawmakers and other guests as well as a fist pump from Zelenskyy, who is Jewish.

But over the following days, several Jewish groups expressed anger and outrage, saying that Hunka had been a member of a volunteer Nazi unit known as the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, which fought alongside Germany during World War II and declared allegiance to Adolf Hitler.

After days of calls for him to step down, Rota announced his resignation on a day when he was scheduled to host an annual garden party at his official country residence.

“This House is above any of us,” he told fellow lawmakers. “I reiterate my profound regret.”

Rota first apologized over the weekend for both his invitation and introduction of Hunka, noting that he “subsequently became aware of more information.”

Although Rota is a member of Parliament from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Party, he is not a political power broker like his counterpart in the U.S. House of Representatives. Speakers in the Canadian House of Commons act as nonpartisan adjudicators in the chamber and are independent of the government.v

The speaker, not the government, controls all activity and conduct within the chamber, as well as its employees.

Rota said he did not inform the governments of Canada or Ukraine about his plan to invite Hunka. Still, Trudeau’s political opponents immediately called on the House of Commons and the prime minister to formally apologize on behalf of Canada to Jews in Canada and abroad.

Trudeau was in Toronto for an event with auto parts manufacturers. Karina Gould, the government’s house leader, responded on his behalf by repeatedly pointing out that the invitation to Hunka was done without the government’s knowledge.

Gould, who is Jewish and the descendant of Holocaust survivors, said she would “have never in a million years stood and applauded someone who aided the Nazis” had she been

aware of Hunka’s past.

Lori Turnbull, a professor of public and international affairs at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, said that quiet diplomatic efforts will be insufficient for mending the damage caused by the affair.

She said no one doubts “this was a genuine error” on Rota’s part. “But that doesn’t matter,” she said. “The point is that we’re still the country that got Zelenskyy to applaud a guy who fought with the Nazis.”

She added: “I don’t see how there’s any resolution to this without some acknowledgment on the part of the prime minister that something really awful happened.”

Turnbull said that because the speaker symbolizes Parliament’s independence from the government, it would have been inappropriate and unusual for Rota to have run his guest list past the prime minister’s office.

But Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative leader whose party leads Trudeau’s Liberals in polls, blamed Trudeau for not vetting the guests who joined lawmakers for Zelenskyy’s speech.

A spokesperson for the prime minister, Ann-Clara Vaillancourt, said that responsibility for security clearances at the event rested solely with the House of Commons, not with any police, security or intelligence agency that reports to the government.

The calls for Rota to step down first came from Jagmeet Singh, the leader of the left-of-center New Democratic Party. They accelerated Tuesday during the leadup to a lunchtime meeting that Rota had scheduled with the leaders of all parties in the House of Commons.

In the hours leading up to Rota’s announcement, the deputy prime minister, the foreign minister, the industry minister and the leader of the government in the House of Commons all had told reporters that he should resign.

In the House of Commons, the opposition Conservatives said the incident played into Russian propaganda. The collaboration between supporters of Ukrainian independence and the Nazi forces during World War II has been a major element of Moscow’s false narrative that the current government in Kyiv has been infiltrated by neo-Nazis.

The 14th Waffen SS unit was made up of volunteers from the Galicia region, which stretched across parts of what is now southeastern Poland and western Ukraine. After the Soviet occupation of western Ukraine in 1939, the creation of the unit in 1943 attracted Ukrainians eager to fight for their independence, said Dominique Arel, the chair of Ukrainian studies at the University of Ottawa.

“Being trained by SS officers, you can imagine the kind of political indoctrination they got,” he said. Even if their aims were for independence, Arel said the unit “fought for and were trained by Nazis. There’s no question about it.”

Canada has long taken the position that merely being a member of the 14th Waffen SS division was not a war crime, though individuals could be prosecuted for specific atrocities. A national commission determined in 1985 that there was no evidence linking former members of the division in Canada to war crimes. Jewish groups have criticized that stance, and the outrage over Hunka renewed calls for a reappraisal.

Anthony Rota, the speaker of the House of Commons of Canada, shaking hands with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine last week.

Senate leaders need to break with Menéndez now

By MICHELLE GOLDBERG

Hopefully, Democratic leaders in the Senate will do the right thing, and this column will be obsolete by the time you read it. I would have written it earlier, but I thought that at any moment, the dam would break and Bob Menendez, the recently indicted senator from New Jersey accused of spectacular acts of treachery and corruption, would be pushed out. Yet here we are, four days after the Department of Justice gave us all a look at Menendez’s cash-stuffed jacket and 1-kilogram gold bars, and a united front of condemnation has yet to materialize. As I write this, more than a dozen Democratic senators have called on him to step down. Every other Democratic senator — especially the Senate majority leader, Chuck Schumer — should join them.

It’s true, of course, that an indictment is not a conviction. (Menendez knows this as well as anyone, having been charged with corruption once before but spared by a hung jury.) While he is entitled to another fair trial, he is not entitled to a seat in the U.S. Senate. As chair, until recently, of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he is accused not just of accepting lavish bribes but also, more seriously, of passing sensitive information to an Egyptian businessperson with ties to

Egypt’s government. This is wrongdoing on a whole other level from what he was previously accused of.

At a defiant news conference Monday, Menendez insisted he’s staying in the Senate and offered a preposterous excuse for the hundreds of thousands of dollars that FBI agents found at his house. He said he kept it for emergencies, “because of the history of my family facing confiscation in Cuba.” Apparently, Menendez, who was born in New York, wants us to believe that, because of intergenerational trauma, he feels the need to hedge against Communist revolution in America. (Ironically, his family now, indeed, faces government confiscation.) He also claimed to be the victim of racist persecution by those who “simply cannot accept that a first-generation Latino American from humble beginnings could rise to be a U.S. senator” — a deployment of identity politics so audaciously cynical, it belongs in a caustic TV farce, some deranged mashup of “Veep” and “The Sopranos.”

His refusal to resign is a problem for Democrats both substantively and politically. At the most basic level, it’s hard to see how, given what Menendez has been accused of, he can be trusted to do his job. His continued tenure in the Senate is an embarrassment to the institution and to the Democratic Party, an embarrassment that will only grow more acute as his prosecution proceeds. Republicans, of course, understand that his presence in the Senate works to their advantage, which is why right-wing Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas declared that Menendez should stay put.

And while Menendez’s indictment demonstrates the absurdity of Donald Trump’s ranting that the Justice Department is rigged against Republicans, it also makes it harder for Democrats to keep the spotlight on Trump’s baroque corruption. Finally, if Menendez somehow fends off a primary challenger next year, he could offer Republicans the chance to pick up New Jersey’s ordinarily safely Democratic Senate seat.

“It’s astonishing, given that kind of evidence, to say you’re not going anywhere,” Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., said Monday evening, a few hours after Menendez’s news conference.

Fetterman was the first Democratic senator to call for Menendez’s resignation. He’s since been joined by several others, including Sherrod Brown of Ohio, Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and, most significantly, Menendez’s fellow New Jersey senator, Cory Booker. Outside the Senate, influential Democrats — including New Jersey’s governor, Phil Murphy, and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi — have also said Menendez should step down.

But the Senate’s top Democratic leaders are so far standing behind him, with Schumer calling him

a “dedicated public servant” who “is always fighting hard for the people of New Jersey.” Perhaps Schumer and others are holding their fire so they can try to ease Menendez out behind the scenes, but given Menendez’s news conference, he seems unlikely to go anywhere without a shove. And until Senate leaders denounce him — and, if necessary, make plans to expel him — Menendez’s shame will taint them as well.

When I spoke to Fetterman, he expressed bemused astonishment that some senators have seemed more exercised about his challenge to the Senate’s sartorial traditions than about the allegations of influence peddling by Menendez. “There were people running into the burning building to save the virtue of the Senate over a dress code,” said Fetterman, but when it comes to a stash of gold bars and “wads of cash all over the house,” they’re silent. “It’s confusing,” he said.

Then again, perhaps the reason Fetterman was so quick to speak about Menendez is that he hasn’t yet been acculturated into the Senate’s clubby and insular folkways. Talking to Democrats about why senators haven’t yet lined up against Menendez, I got the sense that turning on him was seen as a grave step rather than a screamingly obvious one.

Whereas for Fetterman, it was an easy call. “It’s just so clear,” he said. “Black and white.” One of his favorite movies, he said, is “Goodfellas,” and he recalled the scene in which Henry, undressing before a closet packed with clothes, pulls stacks of bills from his pants. “It’s literally just like that!” Fetterman said of Menendez.

He’s right. So how could there be any doubt that Menendez has to go?

The Senate, said Fetterman, “is a strange place sometimes.”

DDEC anuncia iniciativas para fortalecer sector de carga aérea

POR EL STAR STAFF

SAN JUAN – El secretario del Departamento de Desarrollo Económico y Comercio (DDEC), Manuel Cidre Miranda, junto a un grupo de miembros de la Comunidad de Carga Aérea de Puerto Rico, anunció diversas iniciativas alineadas a seguir fortaleciendo la competitividad de Puerto Rico como el principal “hub” de carga aérea de la región, centrado en la presencia farmacéutica, capacidad de almacenaje y calidad del manejo de la carga sensitiva.

La Comunidad de Carga Aérea, impulsada por el DDEC, reveló una serie de proyectos para posicionar a Puerto Rico como el líder en la región en el manejo de carga, sobre todo, en la relacionada al sector de Biociencias. Entre las iniciativas anunciadas está el lanzamiento de un nuevo panel de datos o “dashboard”, que muestra en tiempo real información detallada sobre el mercado de carga aérea.

También se busca lograr que las empresas, que trabajan en la cadena de manejo de la carga, se certifiquen bajo Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma). Esta es una certificación de la Asociación Internacional de Transporte Aéreo (IATA, por sus siglas en ingles), que obtienen los transportistas aéreos por los más altos estándares en la manipulación de productos farmacéuticos. Sobre CEIV Pharma, un grupo de 10 empresas ya comenzó el proceso de certificación que consiste en adiestra -

mientos y auditorias, para cumplir con los requisitos establecidos por la organización internacional e industria farmacéutica.

“Estas iniciativas, lideradas y financiadas por el DDEC, con el apoyo del gobernador, Pedro R. Pierluisi, buscan posicionar a Puerto Rico en el sector de logística aérea, optimizando el “waiver” de trasbordo aéreo otorgado por el Departamento de Transportación Federal. Puerto Rico tiene un elemento diferenciador que lo hace atractivo y relevante sobre otras jurisdicciones, ya que la Isla es el territorio americano, incluyendo los 50 estados, de mayor exportación farmacéutica con sobre $50,000 millones anuales”, expresó Cidre Miranda.

Cidre Miranda añadió “la capacidad productiva, conectividad aérea, currículos universitarios en el manejo de carga sensitiva y la capacidad de almacenaje especializado, hacen de Puerto Rico un centro relevante para ser el “hub” aéreo en toda la región. La logística y la conectividad son pilares importantes en la competitividad. Este esfuerzo no es solo del gobierno, se unen sectores productivos de biociencias, operadores de almacenaje especializado, líneas áreas, autoridades portuarias públicas y privadas, así como las universidades”, dijo.

El tablero personalizado y desarrollado por la empresa especialista en data de carga aérea, Rotate, agregará una amplia variedad de fuentes de datos para brindar una imagen completa del mercado de carga aérea de Puerto Rico. El análisis incluirá las importaciones y exportaciones internacionales

de carga, así como la demanda del comercio aéreo hacia y desde Puerto Rico y los Estados Unidos, tráfico y correo por línea aérea.

El subsecretario de Asuntos Estratégicos del DDEC, Humberto Mercader, añadió que estas iniciativas “son solo el comienzo de lo que el DDEC continuará impulsando de la mano de la industria para asegurar que Puerto Rico continúe siendo un líder global en la manufactura y manejo de productos biofarmacéuticos que van de Puerto Rico a todo el mundo”.

Los miembros de la Comunidad de Carga Aérea de Puerto Rico trabajan juntos para garantizar que la Isla se convierta en el centro de carga aérea de mejor calidad de las Américas y para convertirse en la voz de la industria.

el impacto del COVID-19

POR CYBERNEWS

SAN JUAN – La Contraloría de Puerto Rico publicó el miércoles, una auditoría coordinada sobre la eficacia de las acciones de política pública para reducir la pobreza y la pobreza infantil, mitigar el impacto del COVID-19, y disminuir la brecha de género.

La auditoría, dirigida por la Auditoría General de Argentina, analiza el panorama de Puerto Rico con respecto al Objetivo de Desarrollo Sostenible, Fin de la Pobreza, según la Agenda 2030 de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas.

El Informe especial revela que, aunque se estableció un marco legal para mitigar el impacto de la pandemia del COVID-19 mediante la creación de una Comisión Asesora por Orden Ejecutiva el 25 de mayo de 2021, esta no estuvo en

funciones ni se creó una estructura para su implementación. La Comisión Asesora la formaban 11 funcionarios que sólo se reunieron en una ocasión.

La auditoría indica que la Orden Ejecutiva no incluyó métodos de participación ciudadana ni acciones para disminuir la brecha de género para atender los objetivos. Además, no se nombraron a los ocho representantes de universidades, sector privado y de las entidades sin fines de lucro en la Comisión Asesora.

El Gobierno de Puerto Rico estableció el 31 de diciembre de 2021, la Comisión para Combatir la Pobreza mediante la Ley 84-2021, para reducir la pobreza infantil y la desigualdad social en un 50 por ciento para el 2032, entre otros objetivos. Según datos del Censo de los Estados Unidos al 2022, el 42 por ciento de la población

y el 58 por ciento de los menores de 18 años vivían en situación de pobreza en la isla.

Sin embargo, no se establecieron los mecanismos necesarios para cumplir los objetivos, ya que no se integraron las iniciativas estatales y federales con las de los gobiernos municipales, las entidades sin fines de lucro y con las del sector privado. Además, la Comisión no había preparado un plan estratégico, ni una lista de los fondos disponibles a nivel federal y estatal, y la ley no incluyó tampoco métodos de participación ciudadana, entre otros.

Para el año fiscal de 2023, se había aprobado un presupuesto de 1,200,000 dólares para sufragar el Programa contra la Pobreza Infantil. Sin embargo, al 20 de enero de 2023, no se habían utilizado estos fondos. Esta situación impidió medir el avance para reducir la pobreza infantil.

Informe Especial de la contralora revela inacción del gobierno para reducir la pobreza y mitigar

‘The Continental’ review: A world away from John Wick

By MIKE HALE

The “John Wick” films, starring Keanu Reeves as the world’s most beleaguered hit man, are all about surfaces, systems and choreography. They offer Reeves’ lethal cheekbones; nighttime cinematography that looks like a teenager’s black-light dreams; the honor codes of the gangster drama wedded to the arcane rituals of the medieval fantasy; and the relentless momentum of the fight scenes, in which Reeves moves with the weary, deliberate precision of a chef making his signature dish over and over again. It’s a blend whose continuity of sensation and sentiment can inspire devotion in those (like me) who are susceptible to it.

It helps that the four films, under Chad Stehelski’s direction (working with David Leitch on the original, “John Wick”), are reasonably witty in a way that is largely but not solely visual, and that they’re studded with actors who can stylize their performances to match the material: Reeves, Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, Laurence Fishburne, Anjelica Huston, Willem Dafoe.

Wick appears, for now, to be off the sequel track — there was an ostensible finality to events at the end of “John Wick: Chapter 4” — and into the maze of franchise expansion. A spinoff film focused on a different character is scheduled for release next year. And on Friday, a prequel miniseries, “The Continental,” premiered on the streaming service Peacock. The full title is “The Continental: From the World of John Wick,” but the television project actually seems to be coming from a far distant planet.

If that was a lot of dancing around before getting to the show in question, well, there isn’t a lot that needs saying about the wan, prosaic “The Continental,” which loads incident and exposition into its 4 1/2 hours (over three feature-length episodes) but still feels formless and indistinct.

The main culprit is probably the writing, by Greg Coolidge, Ken Kristensen, Shawn Simmons and Kirk Ward (at least three are credited on each episode). There’s a lot of dialogue, which tries for but never achieves the aphoristic quality that Derek Kolstad and other writers often managed in the films. And “The Continental” takes the central Wick theme of revenge and waters it down, saddling multiple characters with formulaically tragic, virtue-signaling back stories that don’t have the abrupt, almost abstract emotional charge of Wick’s travails in the films.

But there’s fault in the production, too, which tries to simulate an edgy, trash-stewn 1970s New York City on locations and soundstages in and around Budapest. The Continental, if you are unfamiliar with the Wick universe, is a posh underworld hotel and neutral zone — a Soho House for off-duty hit men and bounty hunters — located in New York’s Financial District. In “The Continental,” we see its future owner, Winston Scott, played in the films by McShane and here by Colin Woodell, as a young con man doing battle with an earlier proprietor, Cormac, played by Mel Gibson.

As the overly complicated plot has Winston assembling a team of outsiders to avenge his brother, retrieve a priceless stolen artifact and take over the hotel, the action moves through stereotypically dicey areas — the waterfront, Chinatown, Alphabet City, the Bowery — that are staged with a lot of busy effort but a minimum of imagination. Story points are underlined by a relentless, on-the-nose selection of 1970s standards (Heart, Chicago, Gerry Rafferty and the like). Period details — a plop-plopfizz-fizz Alka-Seltzer commercial, a “Coffy” poster, Pong, allusions to blaxploitation kung fu films and “The Day of the Jackal” — are trotted out for our approval. The screen is full, but nothing makes much of an impression.

And while there are plenty of appealing and talented people in the cast, the performances are characterized by a similar defla-

tion. Woodell and Ayomide Adegun, as the future Continental concierge Charon, are capable but lack the distinctiveness and style that McShane and Reddick gave the characters in the films. Gibson, top-billed but in a secondary role, goes through the motions, hitting one note of grouchy exasperation without conveying any real menace. A few people register: Marina Mazepa and Mark Musashi as creepily doll-like Teutonic killing machines, Jessica Allain as a gentler version of a Tamara Dobson-style martial-arts badass, Ray McKinnon as a folksy sharpshooter.

In the area of most immediate and important comparison, “The Continental” picks up a stylistic tic from the “Wick” fight scenes: the need for each of the assembly-line victims of the ritualistic mayhem to be shot at least twice. That’s it, though. The merely competent action choreography doesn’t have the wit and clarity that can, if you’re willing to let it, turn violence into visual and emotional catharsis, like the songs in a good musical. That’s a world “The Continental” hasn’t discovered.

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What social media does to the teen brain

hypersensitive gas pedal, with relatively low-functioning brakes,” said Dr. Prinstein, who testified before the Senate on the subject in early 2023. “The brain’s inhibition center that says, ‘Maybe don’t follow every single drive and instinct you have’” isn’t fully developed, he said.

While researchers know much more about adolescent brain development now than they did a decade ago, Dr. Prinstein said, proving any kind of causal connection between social media use and poor mental health outcomes is difficult. Reviews of the existing studies on social media and well-being have found them to be inconclusive or inconsistent.

Some studies have tried to measure the question directly, using brain imaging, including a paper published in January (on which Dr. Prinstein was an author), which found that 12-year-olds who habitually checked their social media accounts experienced changes in the areas of the brain associated with social rewards, though it is unclear what caused those changes, or what they mean.

Experts who are studying teens and social media are observing that girls are being hit harder by the current crisis in teen mental health; they say that female hormones may factor in, but the connection to social media use has not been proven scientifically. “Hormones are modifying this process,” Dr. Jensen said. “But in ways we don’t fully understand.”

By CATHERINE PEARSON

Despite the headlines, the impact of social apps on adolescent mental health isn’t so clear. Every generation has its moral panic and for Gen Z — teenagers today — it is, undoubtedly, social media.

Recent public health warnings have stoked fears in parents that a generation of kids is doomed because they are always online. Girls, the headlines warn, are at particular risk: Mental health-related E.R. visits are up, anxiety is skyrocketing and they are being inundated with images of the “thin body ideal.”

Still, neuroscientists and psychologists who specialize in the teenage brain put it plainly: Yes, social media is of concern because the rapidly developing adolescent brain may be uniquely vulnerable to what the platforms have to offer. But the science is not nearly as settled as some of the most dire headlines would make it seem.

“This is really the first truly digital generation, and we have yet to see how much effect this has,” said Dr. Frances Jensen, a neurologist at the University of Pennsylvania and the author of “The Teenage Brain.”

“We can get snapshots,” she added.

What we know is that the brain matures from back to front, a process that starts in infancy and continues into adulthood, Dr. Jensen explained. And during adolescence, there is a particular flurry of activity in the middle part of the brain, which is associated with rewards and social feedback.

“Areas that have to do with peers, peer pressure, impulsivity and emotion are very, very, very active,” Dr. Jensen said.

Mitch Prinstein, the chief science officer at the American Psychological Association, said that “other than the first year of life, this is the most significant and important change that happens in our brains in our entire lives.”

In scientific terms, what is happening has to do with synapses (the connections that allow neurons to send and receive signals), which grow stronger, while connections that are no longer needed are pruned. (It’s “use it or lose it,” Dr. Jensen explained.)

At the same time, the long-distance connections between brain cells in various parts of the brain are becoming insulated in a fatty substance known as myelin, which allows for messages to travel through the brain much more efficiently than they did before. That “myelination” process is not complete until the mid- to late 20s, Dr. Jensen said. That means that during adolescence, signals do not always travel through the brain rapidly enough to help kids regulate their emotions and impulses, she explained.

Likewise, the prefrontal cortex — which sits behind the forehead, and which is responsible for tasks like weighing consequences and planning — is still maturing in the teenage years.

“The adolescent brain is kind of like a car that — when it comes to the desire for social feedback — has a

She is eagerly awaiting results from the ongoing Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development, or A.B.C.D. study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, which is using brain imaging technology to show how development is affected by a range of experiences, including various types of screen time.

Researchers are still tracking the A.B.C.D. study participants into young adulthood, however, and the ever-changing social media landscape compounds how difficult this all is to study, Dr. Jensen said. The apps and sites adolescents are using today are different from those they used just a few years ago.

Yet both Dr. Jensen and Dr. Prinstein noted that social media is not inherently good or bad — a sentiment even the recent public health warnings have echoed. Instead, they sought to emphasize that the changes happening in adolescents’ brains may make them particularly drawn to these platforms and more susceptible to the potential pitfalls.

When tweens start obsessing about their social lives — talking endlessly about their peers and who sits at the “popular table” — that is a sign that they are maturing normally, Dr. Prinstein said.

“That’s how their brains were meant to develop, based on centuries of the social context in which we have all grown up,” he said. But now, adolescents are experiencing those changes in an online world that is “creating the opportunity for reward and social feedback incessantly,” he added. “And that’s the combination we’re concerned about for teens.”

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE PONCE HECTOR LUIS VAZQUEZ

RODRIGUEZ; CARMEN

FELICIANO RIVERA

PETICIONARIOS VS. EX - PARTE

Civil Núm.: PO2023CV02593.

Sobre: EXPEDIENTE DE DOMINIO. EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS E.E.U.U., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: LAS PERSONAS

IGNORADAS Y DESCONOCIDAS A QUIENES PUDIERA PERJUDICAR LA INSCRIPCION DEL DOMINIO A FAVOR DE LA PARTE PETICIONARIA EN EL REGISTRO DE LA PROPIEDAD DE LA FINCA

QUE MAS ADELANTE SE DESCRIBIRA Y A TODA PERSONA EN GENERAL

QUE CON DERECHO PARA ELLO DESEE OPONERSE A ESTE EXPEDIENTE.

POR LA PRESENTE se les notifica para que comparezcan, si lo creyeren pertinente, ante este Honorable Tribunal dentro de los veinte (20) días contados a partir de la última publicación de este edicto a exponer lo que a sus derechos convenga en el expediente promovido por la parte peticionaria para adquirir su dominio sobre la finca que se describe más adelante. Usted deberá presentar su posición 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, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Si usted deja de expresarse dentro del referido término, el Tribunal podrá dictar sentencia, previo a escuchar la prueba de valor de la parte peticionaria en su contra, sin más citarle ni oírle, y conceder el remedio solicitado en la petición, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. RÚSTICA: Parcela número ciento quince (115) radicada en la calle Salvador Brau localizada en las Parcelas Marueño del término municipal de Ponce, Puerto Rico. Con cabida de cuatrocientos cuarenta y siete punto ocho mil

cuatrocientos treinta y cinco (447.8435) metros cuadrados, equivalentes a cero punto mil ciento treinta y nueve (0.1139) cuerdas; esto según consta en el plano de Mensura levantado por el Ingeniero Civil Luis G. Rodríguez, con fecha del 3 de julio de 2020. En lindes por el NORTE, con José Colón; por el SUR, con la calle Salvador Brau; por el ESTE, con Felicita Bello; y por el OESTE, con José A. Padilla. Enclava una estructura de cemento para fines residenciales La finca antes mencionada no consta registrada en el CRIM, para efectos del sistema catastral proviene de la parcela 364016-998-13. Que dicha propiedad tiene un valor de SETENTA

MIL DOLARES ($70,000.00).

El abogado de l a parte peticionaria es: Lcdo. ELOY F. VERDEJO RODRIGUEZ, EXT

LA FE 22485 CALLE SAN TOMAS, JUANA DIAZ, PR 00795; email: eloyverdejo_1@yahoo. com, Teléfono (787) 837-0606. Se le apercibe que de no comparecer los interesados y/o partes citadas, o en su defecto los organismos públicos afectados en el término improrrogable de 20 días a contar de la última publicación del edicto, el Tribunal podrá conceder el remedio solicitado por la parte peticionaria, sin más citarle ni oírle. En Ponce, Puerto Rico, a 12 de septiembre de 2023. CARMEN

TIRÚ QUIÑONES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILENE

RODRÍGUEZ MELÉNDEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA DE VEGA BAJA

HACIENDA DEL MAR OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

DEMANDANTE VS.

LUIS ENRIQUE GARCÍA

MIRANDA, DAMARIS

OSIRIS MATOS TORRES Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES, COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

DEMANDADOS

CIVIL NUM.: VB2022CV00245.

SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. Yo, ALG. FREDDY OMAR RO-

DRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, Alguacil del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de Vega Baja, al

Público HAGO SABER: Que en cumplimiento de un Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que se me libró con fecha de 1 de mayo de 2023 por la Secretaría de este Tribunal en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor pos-

tor con dinero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o letra bancaria con similar garantía, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada de epígrafe sobre la siguiente propiedad inmueble perteneciente a la parte demandada, la cual se describe a continuación: Número de Catastro: Propiedad Horizontal: CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. Apartamento: A-406

SEMANA 36. Cabida: 101.42

Metros Cuadrados. CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL

HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. This specific vacation club right is coupled with a special property right to the above mentioned Unit A-406 and includes the right to use such unit during the 36 week of each year until December 31, of the year 2070, such week commencing at 12:00 noon on the 36 Saturday of each calendar year and ending at 12:00 noon of the same day of the following week, coupled with the membership in the Hyatt Vacation Club o a successor club. Notwithstanding this specific vacation club right allocation of right to use a specific week in Unit A-406 the use of the said unit during the described time interval is subject to the exercise by the owner of certain priority rights during a fixed period of the prior to the commencement of said interval. In the absence of such exercise, other owners of vacation club rights in the Haciendas del Mar, Vacation Club Regime and owners of timeshare or vacation club rights in resorts throughout the world affiliated to the Hyatt Vacation Club, may use the unit to with this vacation right pertains during the above described interval on a first come, first come, first serve reservation basis, and the owner of this vacation club right may use units of this Vacation Club Regime and in such other affiliated resorts, as more fully described in the Deed of Dedication of Hacienda del Mar, a Vacation Club Regime to the vacation club regime. This vacation club right has been assigned a share of 1/52 of 2.63132% in the Facilities and common expenses of the vacation club regime. Esta descripción de la propiedad corresponde a la finca número 13,283 inscrita al tomo de hoja móvil número 52 de Vega Alta, según inscripción 1ra. Registro de la Propiedad Bayamón, Sección III. La venta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a Hacienda del Mar Owners Associaton, Inc. el importe de la Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, ascendente a la siguiente cantidad: $13,718.58 por concepto de cuotas de mantenimiento de la unidad A 406, semana 36.

La fecha y hora de la subasta es como sigue: SUBASTA: Se celebrará el día 2 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 11:15 DE LA MAÑANA. La subasta de dicha propiedad se llevará a efecto en mi oficina situada en el local que ocupa este Tribunal en el Centro Judicial de Vega Baja, advirtiéndose que el que obtuviere la buena pro de dicha propiedad consignará en el acto del remate el importe de su oferta en moneda legal, en adición a los gastos de la subasta, siendo éste el mejor postor. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante el título del inmueble y las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistiendo, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Si se declara desierta la subasta se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse al demandante la finca dentro de los veinte (20) días siguientes, si así lo estimare conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Vega Baja, durante horas laborables. Para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda persona que tenga interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, si alguna, y para la concurrencia de licitadores y para el público en general el presente edicto se publicará en un diario de circulación general en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico dos (2) veces por espacio de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones. Se fijará, además, por espacio de dos (2) semanas mediante avisos por escrito visiblemente colocados en tres (3) lugares públicos del Municipio donde ha de celebrarse la subasta, estos lugares serán: la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la comandancia de la Policía más cercana al Tribunal de Vega Baja. Se notificará a la parte demandada copia del edicto de subasta mediante correo certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. Expido el presente edicto bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal de Vega Baja. En Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, a 1ro de septiembre de 2023. ALG.

FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ

COLLAZO, ALGUACIL SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO

DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE VEGA BAJA HACIENDA DEL MAR OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

DEMANDANTE VS. DOMENICK MARIO DEGIORGIO AMENDALA, TERESA MARY STAUDT RUIZ Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

DEMANDADOS

CIVIL NUM.: VB2022CV00539. SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. Yo, ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, Alguacil del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de Vega Baja, al Público HAGO SABER: Que en cumplimiento de un Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que se me libró con fecha de 1 de mayo de 2023 por la Secretaría de este Tribunal en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor con dinero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o letra bancaria con similar garantía, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada de epígrafe sobre la siguiente propiedad inmueble perteneciente a la parte demandada, la cual se describe a continuación: Número de Catastro:- Propiedad Horizontal: CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. Apartamento: A-304 SEMANA 26. Cabida: 101.42 Metros Cuadrados.

CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. This specific vacation club right is coupled with a special property right to the above mentioned Unit A-304 and includes the right to use such unit during the 26 week of each year until December 31, of the year 2070, such week commencing at 12:00 noon on the 26 Saturday of each calendar year and ending at 12:00 noon of the same day of the following week, coupled with the membership in the Hyatt Vacation Club o a successor club. Notwithstanding this specific vacation club right allocation of right to use a specific week in Unit A-304 the use of the said unit during the described time interval is subject to the exercise by the owner of certain priority rights during a fixed period of the prior to the commencement of said interval. In the absence of such exercise, other owners of vacation club rights in the Haciendas del Mar, Vacation Club Regime and owners of timeshare or vacation club rights in resorts throughout the world

affiliated to the Hyatt Vacation Club, may use the unit to with this vacation right pertains during the above described interval on a first come, first come, first serve reservation basis, and the owner of this vacation club right may use units of this Vacation Club Regime and in such other affiliated resorts, as more fully described in the Deed of Dedication of Hacienda del Mar, a Vacation Club

Regime to the vacation club regime. This vacation club right has been assigned a share of 1/52 of 2.63132% in the Facilities and common expenses of the vacation club regime. Esta descripción de la propiedad corresponde a la finca número 13,019 inscrita al tomo de hoja móvil número 48 de Vega Alta, según inscripción 1ra. Registro de la Propiedad Bayamón, Sección III. La venta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a Hacienda del Mar Owners Associaton, Inc. el importe de la Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, ascendente a la siguiente cantidad: $23,163.25 por concepto de cuotas de mantenimiento de la unidad A 304, semana 26. La fecha y hora de la subasta es como sigue: SUBASTA: Se celebrará el día 2 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 11:30 DE LA MAÑANA. La subasta de dicha propiedad se llevará a efecto en mi oficina situada en el local que ocupa este Tribunal en el Centro Judicial de Vega Baja, advirtiéndose que el que obtuviere la buena pro de dicha propiedad consignará en el acto del remate el importe de su oferta en moneda legal, en adición a los gastos de la subasta, siendo éste el mejor postor. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante el título del inmueble y las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistiendo, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Si se declara desierta la subasta se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse al demandante la finca dentro de los veinte (20) días siguientes, si así lo estimare conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Vega Baja, durante horas laborables. Para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda persona que tenga interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, si alguna, y para la

concurrencia de licitadores y para el público en general el presente edicto se publicará en un diario de circulación general en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico dos (2) veces por espacio de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones. Se fijará, además, por espacio de dos (2) semanas mediante avisos por escrito visiblemente colocados en tres (3) lugares públicos del Municipio donde ha de celebrarse la subasta, estos lugares serán: la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la comandancia de la Policía más cercana al Tribunal de Vega Baja. Se notificará a la parte demandada copia del edicto de subasta mediante correo certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. Expido el presente edicto bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal de Vega Baja. En Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, a 1ro de septiembre de 2023. ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, ALGUACIL SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA DE VEGA BAJA

HACIENDA DEL MAR

OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

DEMANDANTE VS. JUAN COLÓN NOLASCO, ELCONIDA BLANCO COLÓN y la SOCIEDAD

LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES POR

ELLOS COMPUESTA

DEMANDADOS

CIVIL NUM.: VB2022CV00561.

SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. Yo, ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, Alguacil del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de Vega Baja, al Público HAGO SABER: Que en cumplimiento de un Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que se me libró con fecha de 1 de mayo de 2023 por la Secretaría de este Tribunal en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor con dinero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o letra bancaria con similar garantía, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada de epígrafe sobre la siguiente propiedad inmueble perteneciente a la parte demandada, la cual se describe a continuación: Número de Catastro: Propiedad Multivacacional: CONDOMINIO CLUB

VACACIONAL HACIENDA

DEL MAR de Vega Alta. Apartamento Multivacacional: B-807

SEMANA 19. Cabida: 101.42

Metros Cuadrados. Located in

the Sabana Ward of the Municipality of Vega Alta. This specific vacation club right is coupled with a special property right to the above mentioned Unit B-807 and includes the right to use such unit during the 19 week of each year until December 31, of the year 2070, such week commencing at 12:00 noon on the 19 Saturday of each calendar year and ending at 12:00 noon of the same day of the following week, coupled with the membership in the Hyatt Vacation Club o a successor club. Notwithstanding this specific vacation club right allocation of right to use a specific week in Unit B-807 the use of the said unit during the described time interval is subject to the exercise by the owner of certain priority rights during a fixed period of the prior to the commencement of said interval. In the absence of such exercise, other owners of vacation club rights in the Haciendas del Mar, Vacation Club Regime and owners of timeshare or vacation club rights in resorts throughout the world affiliated to the Hyatt Vacation Club, may use the unit to with this vacation right pertains during the above described interval on a first come, first come, first serve reservation basis, and the owner of this vacation club right may use units of this Vacation Club Regime and in such other affiliated resorts, as more fully described in the Deed of Dedication of Hacienda del Mar, a Vacation Club Regime to the vacation club regime. This vacation club right has been assigned a share of 1/52 of 1.2194% in the Facilities and common expenses of the vacation club regime. Esta descripción de la propiedad corresponde a la finca número 17,025 inscrita en tomo de hoja móvil número 97 de Vega Alta, según inscripción 1ra. Registro de la Propiedad Bayamón, Sección III. La venta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a Hacienda del Mar Owners Associaton, Inc. el importe de la Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, ascendente a la siguiente cantidad: $14,432.42 por concepto de cuotas de mantenimiento. La fecha y hora de la subasta es como sigue: SUBASTA: Se celebrará el día 9 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 10:00 DE LA MAÑANA. La subasta de dicha propiedad se llevará a efecto en mi oficina situada en el local que ocupa este Tribunal en el Centro Judicial de Vega Baja, advirtiéndose que el que obtuviere la buena pro de dicha propiedad consignará en el acto del remate el importe de su oferta en moneda legal, en adición a los gastos de la subasta, siendo éste el mejor postor. Se

entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante el título del inmueble y las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistiendo, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Si se declara desierta la subasta se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse al demandante la finca dentro de los veinte (20) días siguientes, si así lo estimare conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Vega Baja, durante horas laborables. Para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda persona que tenga interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, si alguna, y para la concurrencia de licitadores y para el público en general el presente edicto se publicará en un diario de circulación general en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico dos (2) veces por espacio de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones. Se fijará, además, por espacio de dos (2) semanas mediante avisos por escrito visiblemente colocados en tres (3) lugares públicos del Municipio donde ha de celebrarse la subasta, estos lugares serán: la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la comandancia de la Policía más cercana al Tribunal de Vega Baja. Se notificará a la parte demandada copia del edicto de subasta mediante correo certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. Expido el presente edicto bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Vega Baja. En Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, a 1ro de septiembre de 2023. ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, ALGUACIL SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO

DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA DE CAROLINA

HACIENDA DEL MAR

OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

DEMANDANTE VS. MARISOL

ACEVEDO PALAU

DEMANDADO

CIVIL NÚM.: CA2022CV00979.

SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO.

EDICTO DE SUBASTA. Yo, ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, Alguacil del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de Vega Baja, al Público HAGO SABER: Que en cumplimiento de un Manda-

miento de Ejecución de Sentencia que se me libró con fecha de 4 de mayo de 2023 por la Secretaría de este Tribunal en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor con dinero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o letra bancaria con similar garantía, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada de epígrafe sobre la siguiente propiedad inmueble perteneciente a la parte demandada, la cual se describe a continuación: Número de Catastro:

Propiedad Horizontal: CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. Apartamento: A-303

SEMANA 21. Cabida: 101.42

Metros Cuadrados. CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL

HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. This specific vacation club right is coupled with a special property right to the above mentioned Unit A-303 and includes the right to use such unit during the 21 week of each year until December 31, of the year 2070, such week commencing at 12:00 noon on the 21 Saturday of each calendar year and ending at 12:00 noon of the same day of the following week, coupled with the membership in the Hyatt Vacation Club o a successor club. Notwithstanding this specific vacation club right allocation of right to use a specific week in Unit A-303 the use of the said unit during the described time interval is subject to the exercise by the owner of certain priority rights during a fixed period of the prior to the commencement of said interval. In the absence of such exercise, other owners of vacation club rights in the Haciendas del Mar, Vacation Club Regime and owners of timeshare or vacation club rights in resorts throughout the world affiliated to the Hyatt Vacation Club, may use the unit to with this vacation right pertains during the above described interval on a first come, first come, first serve reservation basis, and the owner of this vacation club right may use units of this Vacation Club Regime and in such other affiliated resorts, as more fully described in the Deed of Dedication of Hacienda del Mar, a Vacation Club Regime to the vacation club regime. This vacation club right has been assigned a share of 1/52 of 2.63132% in the Facilities and common expenses of the vacation club regime. Esta descripción de la propiedad corresponde a la finca número 12,976 inscrita al tomo de hoja móvil número 47 de Vega Alta, según inscripción 1ra. Registro de la Propiedad Bayamón, Sección III. La venta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a Hacienda del Mar Owners Associaton, Inc. el importe de la Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, ascendente a la siguiente cantidad: $19,708.87 por concepto de cuotas de mantenimiento.

La fecha y hora de la subasta es como sigue: SUBASTA: Se celebrará el día 9 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 10:30 DE LA MAÑANA. La subasta de dicha propiedad se llevará a efecto en mi oficina situada en el local que ocupa este Tribunal en el Centro Judicial de Vega Baja, advirtiéndose que el que obtuviere la buena pro de dicha propiedad consignará en el acto del remate el importe de su oferta en moneda legal, en adición a los gastos de la subasta, siendo éste el mejor postor. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante el título del inmueble y las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistiendo, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Si se declara desierta la subasta se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse al demandante la finca dentro de los veinte (20) días siguientes, si así lo estimare conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Vega Baja, durante horas laborables. Para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda persona que tenga interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, si alguna, y para la concurrencia de licitadores y para el público en general el presente edicto se publicará en un diario de circulación general en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico dos (2) veces por espacio de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones. Se fijará, además, por espacio de dos (2) semanas mediante avisos por escrito visiblemente colocados en tres (3) lugares públicos del Municipio donde ha de celebrarse la subasta, estos lugares serán: la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la comandancia de la Policía más cercana al Tribunal de Vega Baja. Se notificará a la parte demandada copia del edicto de subasta mediante correo certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. Expido el presente edicto bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Vega Baja. En Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, a 1ro de septiembre de 2023. ALG.

FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, ALGUACIL SUPERIOR.

OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

DEMANDANTE VS. JON CHRISTIAN STEPHANS, BETH ANN STEPHANS Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES, POR ELLOS COMPUESTA DEMANDADA

CIVIL NUM.: VB2022CV00559. SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. Yo, ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, Alguacil del Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala de Vega Baja, al Público HAGO SABER: Que en cumplimiento de un Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que se me libró con fecha de 11 de mayo de 2023 por la Secretaría de este Tribunal en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor con dinero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o letra bancaria con similar garantía, todo título, derecho o interés de la parte demandada de epígrafe sobre la siguiente propiedad inmueble perteneciente a la parte demandada, la cual se describe a continuación: Número de Catastro: Propiedad Multivacacional: CONDOMINIO CLUB VACACIONAL HACIENDA DEL MAR de Vega Alta. Apartamento Multivacacional: B-806 SEMANA 45. Cabida: 101.42 Metros Cuadrados. Located in the Sabana Ward of the Municipality of Vega Alta. This specific vacation club right is coupled with a special property right to the above mentioned Unit B-806 and includes the right to use such unit during the 45 week of each year until December 31, of the year 2070, such week commencing at 12:00 noon on the 45 Saturday of each calendar year and ending at 12:00 noon of the same day of the following week, coupled with the membership in the Hyatt Vacation Club o a successor club. Notwithstanding this specific vacation club right allocation of right to use a specific week in Unit B-806 the use of the said unit during the described time interval is subject to the exercise by the owner of certain priority rights during a fixed period of the prior to the commencement of said interval. In the absence of such exercise, other owners of vacation club rights in the Haciendas del Mar, Vacation Club Regime and owners of timeshare or vacation club rights in resorts throughout the world affiliated to the Hyatt Vacation Club, may use the unit to with this vacation right pertains during the above described interval on a first come, first come, first serve reservation basis, and the owner of this vacation club right may use units of this Vacation Club Regime and in such other affiliated resorts, as more fully described in the Deed of Dedication of Hacienda del Mar, a Vacation

Club Regime to the vacation club regime. This vacation club right has been assigned a share of 1/52 of 2.63132% in the Facilities and common expenses of the vacation club regime. Esta descripción de la propiedad corresponde a la finca número 18,212 inscrita en tomo de hoja móvil número 105 de Vega Alta, según inscripción 1ra. Registro de la Propiedad Bayamón, Sección III. La venta se llevará a cabo para con su producto satisfacer a Hacienda del Mar Owners Association, Inc. el importe de la Sentencia dictada en el caso de epígrafe, ascendente a la siguiente cantidad: $14,432.42 por concepto de cuotas de mantenimiento. La fecha y hora de la subasta es como sigue: SUBASTA: Se CELEBRARÁ EL DÍA 9 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 10:45 DE LA MAÑANA. La subasta de dicha propiedad se llevará a efecto en mi oficina situada en el local que ocupa este Tribunal en el Centro Judicial de Vega Baja, advirtiéndose que el que obtuviere la buena pro de dicha propiedad consignará en el acto del remate el importe de su oferta en moneda legal, en adición a los gastos de la subasta, siendo éste el mejor postor. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante el título del inmueble y las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito del ejecutante, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistiendo, entendiéndose que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Si se declara desierta la subasta se dará por terminado el procedimiento, pudiendo adjudicarse al demandante la finca dentro de los veinte (20) días siguientes, si así lo estimare conveniente, por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal de Vega Baja, durante horas laborables. Para conocimiento de la parte demandada y de toda persona que tenga interés inscrito con posterioridad a la inscripción del gravamen que se está ejecutando, si alguna, y para la concurrencia de licitadores y para el público en general el presente edicto se publicará en un diario de circulación general en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico dos (2) veces por espacio de dos (2) semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones. Se fijará, además, por espacio de dos (2) semanas mediante avisos por escrito visiblemente colocados en tres (3) lugares públicos del Municipio donde ha de celebrarse la subasta, estos lugares serán: la Alcaldía, el Tribunal y la comandancia de

la Policía más cercana al Tribunal de Vega Baja. Se notificará a la parte demandada copia del edicto de subasta mediante correo certificado con acuse de recibo a la última dirección conocida. Expido el presente edicto bajo mi firma y sello del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Vega Baja. En Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, a 1ro de septiembre de 2023. ALG. FREDDY OMAR RODRÍGUEZ COLLAZO, ALGUACIL SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

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

Parte Demandante V. LUIS MANUEL

PASTOR CANALES

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: SJ2022CV02588. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El que suscribe, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de SAN JUAN, hago saber a la parte demandada, LUIS MANUEL PASTOR CANALES y al PÚBLICO EN GENERAL; que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia expedido el 21 de febrero de 2023, por la Secretaría del Tribunal, procederé a vender y venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor pagadero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o giro postal, a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal, la siguiente propiedad con dirección física: 135 Calle Mallorca, Urb. Floral Park, San Juan PR 00926 y que se describe como sigue: URBANA: Solar marcado con el número 2 en el plano de inscripción en el barrio Martin Peña de Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, compuesto de 311.63 metros cuadrados, con las siguientes colindancias. NORTE en 15.00 metros con Las Monjas Racing Corporation; SUR, en igual medida con la calle Umpierre; ESTE, en 20.00 metros con área libre perteneciente al Pueblo de Puerto Rico y OESTE, en 21.55 metros con el solar número 4. Finca número 1436-A, inscrita al folio 79 del Tomo 187 de Rio Piedras Norte, Registro de la Propiedad de San Juan Sección II. La finca antes descrita se encuentra afecta a los siguientes gravámenes: (i) HIPOTECA: Constituida par Luis Manuel Pastor Canales, soltero en garantía de un pagare, aff#.23025, a favor de Home Mortgage Bankers o a su orden, por $145,000.00 al 4%, vencedero el 1 de abril del 2046, según Escritura #259 en San Juan a 18 de marzo del 2016 ante Angel L. Rolan Prado, inscrita al Sistema Karibe de Rio Piedras Norte, finca

#1436A, inscripci6n 7ma. Modificada la hipoteca de la inscripción 7ma. a $144,502.33, vencedero el 1 de marzo del 2049, según Escritura #59 en San Juan, a 19 de febrero del 2019, ante Julio E. Pijem Berrios, inscrita al Sistema Karibe de Rio Piedras Norte, finca #1436A, inscripción 8va y última. La hipoteca objeto de esta ejecución es la que ha quedado descrita en el inciso (i). Será celebrada la subasta para con el importe de la misma satisfacer la sentencia dictada el 1 de septiembre de 2023, mediante la cual se estipuló y condenó a la parte demandada pagar a la parte demandante la cantidad adeudada y vencida ascendiente a $137,430.94 de principal, intereses que continuarán acumulándose al 4% anual hasta el saldo total de la deuda, más $330.72 a otros cargos, mas $14,500.00 de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otro desembolso que haya efectuado o efectúe la parte demandante durante la tramitación de este caso para otros adelantos de conformidad con el Contrato Hipotecario. La PRIMERA SUBASTA será celebrada el día 16 DE OCTUBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico. Servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma, la cantidad de $145,000.00 sin admitirse oferta inferior. De no haber remate ni adjudicación, celebraré SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 23 DE OCTUBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la que servirá como tipo mínimo, dos terceras (2/3) partes del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $96,666.67. Si no hubiese remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, celebraré TERCERA SUBASTA el día 30 DE OCTUBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar en la que regirá como tipo mínimo, la mitad (1/2) del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $72,500.00. El Alguacil que suscribe hizo constar que toda licitación deberá hacerse para pagar su importe en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América, de acuerdo con la Ley y de acuerdo con lo anunciado en este Aviso de Subasta. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables. Se entiende que todo licitador que comparezca a la subasta señalada en este caso acepta como bastante la titulación que da base a la misma. Se entiende que cualquier carga y/o gravamen anterior y/o preferente, si la hubiere al crédito que da base a esta ejecución continuará subsistente, entendiéndose, además, que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de estos, sin destinarse a su extinción cual-

quier parte del remanente del precio de licitación. La propiedad para ejecutar será adquirida libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Por la presente se notifica a los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante o 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, 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 subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. Vendida o adjudicada la finca o derecho hipotecado y consignado el precio correspondiente, en esa misma fecha o fecha posterior, el alguacil que celebró la subasta procederá a otorgar la correspondiente escritura pública de traspaso en representación del dueño o titular de los bienes hipotecados, ante el notario que elija el adjudicatario o comprador, quien deberá abonar el importe de tal escritura. El alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la confirmación de la venta o adjudicación. 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. Y PARA CONOCIMIENTO DE LOS LICITADORES Y DEL PUBLICO EN GENERAL y para su publicación de acuerdo con la Ley, expido el presente Edicto bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal. En SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, hoy 8 de septiembre de 2023. PEDRO HIEYE GONZÁLEZ, ALGUACIL, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA DE SAN JUAN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE AGUADILLA

COOPERATIVA DE

AHORRO Y CRÉDITO DE AGUADILLA

Parte Demandante Vs JESÚS ANTONIO VIVES

MUÑIZ T/C/C/ JESÚS

A. VIVES MUÑIZ Y

ADELAIDA ROSARIO CRESPO

Parte Demandada

Civil Núm.: AG2022CV00036.

CAROLINA SALÓN DE SESIO-

NES CIVIL 403

ORIENTAL BANK

Demandante V.

CARMEN MARIA

SANCHEZ QUIÑONES POR SI Y COMO

MIEMBRO CONOCIDO DE LA SUCN DE VICENTE

SANTOS LLANOS Y OTROS

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: CA2023CV00144.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINEROORDINARIO, EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA: PROPIEDAD RESIDENCIAL. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

JAVIER MONTALVO CINTRÓN JMONTALVO@ DELGADOFERNANDEZ.COM

A: CARMEN MARIA SANCHEZ QUIÑONES

POR SI Y COMO

MIEMBRO CONOCIDO DE LA SUCESION VICENTE

SANTOS LLANOS, JOHN DOE Y RICHARD

ROE COMO MIEMBROS DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION DE VICENTE

SANTOS LLANOS.

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

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 19 de septiembre 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 19 de septiembre de 2023. En Carolina, Puerto Rico, el 19 de septiembre de 2023.

KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA. LILLIAM ORTIZ NIEVES, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL

GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE SAN JUAN ORIENTAL BANK

Demandante V. FELIPE SERRANO

SÁNCHEZ, MARGARITA

LÓPEZ PUMAREJO Y LA

SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES

POR ESTOS COMPUESTA

Demandada CIVIL NÚM.: SJ2023CV00410. SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El que suscribe, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, hago saber a la parte demandada FELIPE SERRANO SÁNCHEZ, MARGARITA LÓPEZ

PUMAREJO Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES POR ESTOS COMPUESTA y al PÚBLICO EN GENERAL; que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia expedido el 25 de agosto de 2023, por la Secretaría del Tribunal, procederé a vender y venderé en pública subasta por el precio mínimo de $130,596.00 y al mejor postor, pagadero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o giro postal, a nombre del alguacil del tribunal, la propiedad que se describe a continuación: RD 176 KM 5.2

INT Barrio Cupey Alto, San Juan, PR 00926, y que se describe de la siguiente manera:

RUSTICA: Lote de terreno denominado coma Parcela A, en el plano de inscripción, con un área superficial de 217.92 metros cuadrados, equivalentes a 0.0554 cuerda, localizada en el Camino Municipal Los González en la Carretera Municipal #176 del Barrio Cupey Alto de Río Piedras, San Juan, Puerto Rico, en lindes por el Norte, con terrenos de la finca principal de la cual se segrega; por el Sur, con terrenos de la finca principal de la cual se segrega; por el Este, con franja de terreno dedicada a uso público adyacente al camino municipal Los González y por el Oeste, con terrenos de la finca principal de la cual se segrega. Enclava casa de hormigón armada y bloques de hormigón, que mide 20 pies de frente por 36 pies de fondo, con un área de construcción de 600 pies cuadrados. Consta de sala, comedor-cocina en un sofá pieza, tres cuartos dormitorios, dos baños y balcón.

Finca 20326 inscrita al folio 109 del tomo 674 de Río Piedras Sur, Registro de la Propiedad de San Juan, Sección IV. La finca antes descrita se encuentra afecta a los siguientes gravámenes: (i) Hipoteca constituída por Felipe Serrano Sánchez casado con Margarita López Pumarejo, en garantía de un pagaré, a favor de RG Premier Bank of P.R., o a su orden, por $115,028.00, al 4.50%, vencedero el 1 de mayo de 2039, según Ese. #218, en San Juan, a 1 de mayo de 2009, ante Alexandra M. Serracante Cadilla, inscrita al folio 109 del tomo 674 de Río Piedras Sur, finca #20326, inscripción 4ta, Re-

gistro de la Propiedad de San Juan, Sección IV. La hipoteca objeto de esta ejecución es la que ha quedado descrita en el inciso (i). Será celebrada la subasta para con el importe de la misma satisfacer la sentencia dicta el 28 de junio de 2022, mediante la cual se condenó a la parte demandada pagar a la parte demandante la suma de $83,265.54 de principal, más $2,773.35 de interés al 4.50% anual, al 1 de enero de 2023, que continuarán acumulándose $10.0991 diario hasta el saldo total, $163.17 de cargos por atrasos, $702.00 de otros cargos, $11,502.80 de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otro desembolso que haya efectuado o efectúe la parte demandante durante la tramitación de este caso para otros adelantos de conformidad con el Contrato Hipotecario, incluyendo primas de seguro de hipoteca, prima de seguro de siniestro y cargos por demora.

La PRIMERA SUBASTA será celebrada el día 23 DE OCTUBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en la oficina del Alguacil, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, Puerto Rico. Servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma la cantidad de $130,596.00, sin admitirse oferta inferior. De no haber remate ni adjudicación, celebraré SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 30 DE OCTUBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la que servirá como tipo mínimo, dos terceras (2/3) partes del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $87,064.00. Si no hubiese remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, celebraré TERCERA SUBASTA el día 6 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar en la que regirá como tipo mínimo, la mitad del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $65,298.00. El Alguacil que suscribe hizo constar que toda licitación deberá hacerse para pagar su importe en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América, de acuerdo con la Ley y de acuerdo con lo anunciado en este Aviso de Subasta. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables. Se entiende que todo licitador que comparezca a la subasta señalada en este caso acepta como bastante la titulación que da base a la misma. Se entiende que cualquier carga y/o gravamen anterior y/o preferente, si la hubiere al crédito que da base a esta ejecución continuará subsistente, entendiéndose, además, que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción cualquier parte del remanente del precio de licitación. La propiedad a

ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Por la presente se notifica a los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante o 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, 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 subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. Vendida o adjudicada la finca o derecho hipotecado y consignado el precio correspondiente, en esa misma fecha o fecha posterior, el alguacil que celebró la subasta procederá a otorgar la correspondiente escritura pública de traspaso en representación del dueño o titular de los bienes hipotecados, ante el notario que elija el adjudicatario o comprador, quien deberá abonar el importe de tal escritura. El alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la confirmación de la venta o adjudicación. 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. Y PARA CONOCIMIENTO DE LOS LICITADORES Y DEL PUBLICO EN GENERAL y para su publicación de acuerdo con la Ley, expido el presente Edicto bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy 18 de septiembre de 2023. EDWIN E. LOPEZ MULERO, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA DE SAN JUAN.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN SALA SUPERIOR DE BAYAMÓN SALÓN DE SESIONES SALÓN 504 ISLAND PORTFOLIO SERVICES, LLC COMO AGENTE DE FAIRWAY ACQUISITIONS FUND, LLC

Demandante V. EDWIN M. RODRIGUEZ ALEMAN

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: BY2022CV06632.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO - REGLA 60, COBRO DE DINERO - ORDINARIO. NOTIFI-

CACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO. KEVIN SÁNCHEZ CAMPANERO KEVIN.SANCHEZ@ORF-LAW.COM

A: EDWIN M. RODRÍGUEZ ALEMÁN. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 17 de septiembre 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 19 de septiembre de 2023. En Bayamón, Puerto Rico, el 19 de septiembre de 2023. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA. VIVIAN J. SANABRIA ORTIZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

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

FIRSTBANK

PUERTO RICO

Demandante V. HILDA R. RODRIGUEZ BARRETO

Demandado CIVIL NÚM.: BY2023CV03693. 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: HILDA R. RODRIGUEZ BARRETO. FISICA Y

POSTAL: URB. APOLO, P18 CALLE ACROPOLIS, GUAYNABO, PUERTO RICO 00969-4919.

De: FIRSTBANK

PUERTO RICO. Se le emplaza y requiere 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), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente direc-

ción 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. Este caso trata sobre Cobro de Dinero; la parte demandante solicita que se condene a la parte demandada a pagar: la suma principal de $9,967.09 por la tarjeta bancaria número xxxxxxxx-xxxx-6442; más una suma por costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado. Se le apercibe que, si dejare de hacerlo, se dictará contra usted sentencia en rebeldía, concediéndose el remedio solicitado en la demanda, sin más citarle ni oírle.

Lcdo. José Antonio Lamas Burgos Abogado Número 15693 PO Box 194089, San Juan, PR 00919

Teléfono: (787) 296-9500 Correo Electrónico: jlamas@lvprlaw.com

EXTENDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA y Sello del Tribunal, hoy: 20 de septiembre de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA. SARA ROSA VILLEGAS, SECRETARIA DEL TRIBUNAL CONFIDENCIAL I.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

CENTRO JUDICIAL DE HUMACAO SALA SUPERIOR DE HUMACAO SALÓN DE SESIONES SALÓN 206 PALMAS DEL MAR HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

Demandante V. JORGE PAOLI BRUNO Y OTROS

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: HU2022CV01663.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINEROORDINARIO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

JOSÉ R. GONZÁLEZ RIVERA JRG@GONZALEZMORALES.COM

A: JORGE PAOLI BRUNO, SONIA TORRES MENDOZA, LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR AMBOS. DIRECCION POSTAL: PO BOX 193789 SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO 00919-3789.

P/C LCDO. JOSÉ R.

GONZÁLEZ RIVERA. (Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 14 de septiembre 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 19 de septiembre de 2023. En Humacao, Puerto Rico, el 19 de septiembre de 2023. IVELISSE C. FONSECA RODRÍGUEZ, SECRETARIA. IVELISSE M. MONCLOVA CRUZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE CAROLINA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA

PC 2018-1 LLC

Demandante V.

PREFERRED MORTGAGE CORPORATION Y OTROS

Demandado(a)

Caso Núm.: CA2023CV01780.

Sobre: CANCELACIÓN O RESTITUCIÓN DE PAGARÉ EXTRAVIADO. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

ANDRÉS SÁEZ MARRERO PRSERVICE@TMPPLLC.COM

A: HOME MORTGAGE COMPANY; FULANO DE TAL Y FULANA DE TAL COMO

POSIBLES TENEDORES DESCONOCIDOS DEL PAGARÉ.

(Nombre de las partes que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto) EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que el 21 de septiembre 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 22 de septiembre de 2023. En Carolina, Puerto Rico, el 22 de septiembre de 2023. KANELLY ZA-

YAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA. MYRIAM FIGUEROA PASTRANA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA ORIENTAL BANK Demandante Vs. SUCESION DE MIGUELINA VALDES PLAZA T/C/C MIGUELINA VALDEZ PLAZA; SUCESION DE LUIS ROHENA VALDES; SUCESION DE DENIS STERLING VALDES; SUCESION DE ELIER ROHENA FIGUEROA; ELIER STEVEN ROHENA CASTRO, CHISTOPHER ROHENA ZAYAS T/C/C CHRISTOPHER ROHENA ZAYAS, CATHERINE STERLING SALDAÑA, NINOSHKA EUNICE STERLING SALDAÑA, DARITZA STERLING, DENIS GABRIEL STERLING ISAAC, MICHAEL DENISSE STERLING VIGO T/C/C MICHELLE DENISSE STERLING VIGO Y CARMEN FANNY VALDES T/C/C CARMEN VALDES PLAZA T/C/C CARMEN VALDEZ PLAZA COMO HEREDEROS CONOCIDOS O PARTES CON INTERES EN LAS REFERIDAS SUCESIONES; FULANO DE TAL Y SUTANA DE TAL COMO HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS Y/O PARTES CON INTERES EN DICHAS SUCESIONES Demandados Civil Núm.: CA2022CV02772. Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA (IN REM). EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE. UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: SUCESIÓN DE MIGUELINA VALDÉS PLAZA T/C/C MIGUELINA VALDEZ PLAZA; SUCESIÓN DE LUIS

ROHENA VALDÉS; SUCESIÓN DE DENIS STERLING VALDÉS Y SUCESIÓN DE ELIER

STEVEN ROHENA FIGUEROA COMPUESTA POR SUS HEREDEROS CONOCIDOS O PERSONAS CON

Brooks Robinson, slick-fielding Hall of Fame third baseman, dies at 86

By RICHARD GOLDSTEIN

Brooks Robinson, the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Famer who was perhaps the finest third baseman in baseball history, has died. He was 86.

His death was announced by the Orioles in a statement that did not include further information.

In his 23 seasons with the Orioles, from 1955 to 1977, Robinson became known as the Human Vacuum Cleaner for his ability to snare just about anything hit his way.

Charging topped grounders or bunts, backhanding smashes, ranging to his left or his right, he won 16 consecutive Gold Glove awards as the American League’s leading fielder at third base. Only pitcher Greg Maddux, with 18 Gold Gloves, has exceeded Robinson’s total.

Robinson played on four pennant-winning teams, two of them World Series champions. He was the most valuable player of the 1970 World Series, in which the Orioles beat the Cincinnati Reds in five games, for his spectacular plays and for his hitting: He had a .429 batting average and hit a pair of home runs. (The Orioles also beat the Los Angeles Dodgers in four games in the 1966 Series.)

Robinson had 2,848 hits, 268 home runs and a career batting average of .267. He was the American League’s MVP in 1964, when he hit 28 homers, had a league-leading 118 runs batted in and batted .317, all career highs. But he was best known for his fielding.

Robinson was named an All-Star every season from 1960 to 1974. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983, his first year of eligibility, with almost 92% of the votes.

In an interview with former baseball commissioner Fay Vincent for his 2008 oral history, “We Would Have Played for Nothing,” Robinson recalled that after the 1970 World Series, “all the writers were waiting on me to come to my locker,” but Rex Barney, the Orioles’ broadcaster, said, “Well, don’t worry about him. Just interview his gloves. They’re a lot better, and that’s who’s doing all the work.”

Robinson wasn’t using his World Series glove the next year. It had been transported to the Hall of Fame.

Brooks Calbert Robinson was born May 18, 1937, in Little Rock, Arkansas, where his father was a firefighter and also played semipro baseball. He listened to St. Louis

Cardinals games on the radio and grew determined to become a major league player. Tossing tennis balls against the steps of his family home hour after hour and grabbing the caroms, he taught himself to field a baseball coming at him from all sorts of angles.

Signed by the Orioles’ organization out of high school, Robinson started out as a second baseman for their York, Pennsylvania, farm team in 1955. But he was soon switched to third base, where his marvelous reactions enabled him to corral hard-hit balls.

Robinson got into a few games with the Orioles in 1955 and 1956. In the spring of 1957, Paul Richards, the team’s manager, thought he found a flaw in the mechanics of Robinson’s backhand plays and asked George Kell, the longtime third baseman who was concluding his major league career with the Orioles, to correct it.

But Kell noted that Robinson had not missed a ball hit to his backhand in six weeks of spring training. “He was already so good that there wasn’t much I could tell him,” Kell recalled in an interview with The Baltimore Sun in 2004.

Robinson played 145 games with the Orioles in 1958 (he hit a disappointing .238) and, after serving six months in the Arkansas National Guard and spending much of the 1959 season in the minor leagues, returned to the Orioles to stay in 1960.

With Robinson at third base and future Hall of Famer Luis Aparicio and later Mark Belanger, both brilliant fielders, alongside him at shortstop for much of his career, the left side of the Orioles’ infield provided all the support a pitcher could want.

“I always had great hand-eye coordination and was blessed with the instinct to be where the baseball was hit,” Robinson told Danny Peary for his book “We Played the Game” (1994).

“I wasn’t fast and I didn’t have a great arm,” he added, “yet I compensated by quickly getting my feet in position to throw and getting rid of the ball quicker than anyone else.”

Robinson complemented his natural talents with hard work.

He told Fay Vincent how he “worked on the slow hit, the topped balls or bunts.”

“I used to line up about 10 or 12 balls in a row,” he recalled. “You just come in and pick one up and you’d take another step and pick one up and throw it.”

When Robinson retired, he held major league records for most games, putouts, assists and double plays by a third baseman, as well as highest fielding percentage. He was later a television broadcaster for the Orioles. Information about his survivors was not immediately available.

When Robinson entered the Hall of Fame, Kell, a fellow Arkansas native, was inducted as well. (Robinson was selected by baseball writers, Kell by the Veterans Committee.)

“Is Brooks the best ever at third? No doubt about it,” Kell told The Sun in 2004.

Sparky Anderson, who managed the Reds in the 1970 World Series, found himself tormented by all those sure hits that Robinson turned into outs.

“I’m beginning to see Brooks in my sleep,” Investor’s Business Daily said Anderson remarked that October. “If I dropped this paper plate, he’d pick it up on one hop and throw me out at first.”

Brooks Robinson in 1967. He became known as the Human Vacuum Cleaner for his ability to snare just about anything hit his way.

Travis Kelce was a star. Taylor Swift put him in another orbit.

By EMMANUEL MORGAN

Three years after Travis Kelce was drafted into the National Football League, the tight end courted 50 contestants, one from each state, for a “Bachelor”-esque dating show on E! Entertainment that drew little notice.

His profile has risen substantially since “Catching Kelce” aired in 2016. He has won two Super Bowls with Kansas City — catching a touchdown in each — and earned eight Pro Bowl selections while dabbling as a media personality, hosting a “Saturday Night Live” episode and helming a popular football podcast.

But in terms of maximizing his celebrity, nothing compares to Kelce’s brush with the aura of Taylor Swift, a 12-time Grammy winner whose Eras Tour this year has shattered concert records and even registered seismic activity.

Kelce and Swift, both 33, have remained quiet about whether they are friends or a couple, or just two celebrities trying to leverage each other’s fame. But fans regularly dissect Swift’s dating life and failed relationships, which she has written about in her songs.

After weeks of speculation about a connection between Kelce and Swift, who broke up with actor Joe Alwyn this year, she attended Kelce’s game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday, watching from a luxury suite with his mother as the Chiefs trounced the Chicago Bears. Fox cameras panned to Swift’s reaction nearly every time Kelce touched the ball. The singer’s devoted swarm of fans also tuned in, with several posting on social media that they were watching football for the first time.

Swift, wearing a red-and-white outfit that matched Kansas City’s colors, was then seen leaving the stadium with Kelce.

Despite Kelce’s relative fame in the sports world, becoming part of the frenzied conversation around Swift’s every move is another ballgame. Kelce now has 3.2 million followers on Instagram. Swift has 273 million.

“This puts him on a completely different plane from where he was as a celebrity,” said Daniel Durbin, a professor of communication at the University of

Southern California. “This is celebrity on steroids, and it has a powerful impact.”

As professional athletes near retirement in their 30s and early 40s, many begin to plot their next career moves. Some become broadcasters, while others turn to Hollywood. Star basketball player LeBron James has started his own tequila brand and said he wants to own a team.

That Kelce and Swift were in the same stadium this weekend brought together two fandoms that don’t often overlap. A spokesperson for Fanatics, the NFL’s official retailer, said that sales of Kelce’s jersey had spiked by 400% as of Monday.

Coaches and players from across the NFL also took notice.

Bill Belichick, the New England Patriots coach known for gruff answers to reporters’ questions, said on a radio show that “Travis Kelce’s had a lot of big catches in his career — this would be the biggest.” Star Dallas Cowboys defender Micah Parsons posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that one woman “can change your life!!!”

Celebrity relationships in the NFL are

not new, but they are normally reserved for star quarterbacks who touch the ball every play. Russell Wilson married singer Ciara in 2016; Tom Brady, who won seven Super Bowls, spent 16 years with model Gisele Bündchen before they divorced last year.

It is rarer, but not impossible, for a tight end to drive the national conversation. But Kelce, propelled by his stylish outfits, trimmed beard and haircut and his charismatic personality, has emerged as one of the NFL’s most marketable stars.

Before Swift, his fame had crescendoed because of a candid podcast he hosts with his brother, Jason, the center for the Philadelphia Eagles. (Their relationship was a popular topic before last season’s Super Bowl, in which the Chiefs narrowly defeated the Eagles.)

On their weekly podcast, “New Heights,” the Kelces discuss their lives as professional athletes and speak with highprofile guests such as Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. It was also where the Kelce-Swift story line began.

In July, Travis Kelce said on his podcast that he had wanted to give Swift a friendship bracelet during her concert tour stop in Kansas City, but that she had declined to meet him in order to save her voice. Last week, amid rumors that the celebrities were dating, Kelce confirmed in an ESPN interview only that he had invited Swift to a game.

“I told her that, ‘I’ve seen you rock the stage in Arrowhead. You might have to come see me rock the stage in Arrowhead, and see which one’s a little more lit,’” Kelce said.

Whatever happens with Kelce and Swift, the attention could be benefiting them both.

Her concert movie, “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,” releases next month, and he is already pursuing a career outside sports. He told the Los Angeles Times this summer that he considered Peyton Manning, the Hall of Fame quarterback and founder of the content company Omaha Productions, a mentor, and he recently signed with the powerful media conglomerate Creative Artists Agency.

Television cameras panned to Taylor Swift’s reaction every time Travis Kelce touched the football in Sunday’s game.

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

Answers on page 30

Wordsearch

Aries (Mar 21-April 20)

The indecisiveness that you feel regarding certain issues may be amplified today, Aries. You may go to extremes from one side of the spectrum to the other. Work with this energy by recognizing the value in both situations, putting your rational mind aside and letting your heart be the final judge. Something beautiful and comforting will probably end up catching your eye.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Your thinking should be clear today, Taurus, and your sharp focus adept at revealing the truth of any situation. Your mind may be intertwined quite delicately with your heart, but the good news is that they’re working harmoniously together. You’re able to stand back and see the rational, logical side of your feelings as well as the emotional, tender side of your thoughts.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

Don’t leave anyone behind as you gallivant through your world today, Gemini. You’re so wrapped up in your adventures that you’re unaware of other people who could use more attention. In your endless search for something bigger and better, you may have lost contact with the wonderful things you already have in front of you.

Cancer (June 22-July 23)

Love and romance are key aspects of the day, Cancer. You should find that things relating to these aspects of your life are going well. Your mind is much more penetrating than usual, and your search for deeper knowledge can be quenched with less effort than might usually be required. Your creative spirit is anxious to find an outlet for adventure.

Leo (July 24-Aug 23)

You might need to take a step back today and turn your attention inward instead of outward. When it comes to love and romance, don’t rush things. Patience is needed now more than ever. People are much more emotional than usual. Don’t be surprised if you or someone you know becomes territorial when a stranger steps on his or her private turf.

Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 23)

Your mind is like a fine sieve that filters even the smallest details from the whole, Virgo. Nothing escapes your attention today. You’re right on top of the situation whether people realize it or not. Feel free to take your time and be patient. Facts may reveal themselves slowly, so don’t make a major decision about something until you have all the relevant data.

Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23)

You may feel like you’re sitting on a pincushion when it comes to issues regarding love and romance, Libra. Don’t be surprised if there’s conflict in this part of your life. If you’re involved in a relationship, consider this bump in the road a challenge that will make you stronger and bond you more tightly your partner. If you aren’t with someone, it may be for the best.

Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)

There could be some verbal sparring as you tackle the challenges this new day brings, Scorpio. Love is on your side. You’ll find that as long as you stay true to your inner strength, you’ll come through with shining colors regardless of the events that transpire. Engage in activities and situations that promote your strengths instead of your weaknesses.

Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

You may try to explain something with your brain today when the true understanding of the situation comes only through your heart, Sagittarius. Feel the answer from deep within instead of trying to decipher it. Sink into the mood of the environment instead of trying to break it down into little compartments that you can analyze and categorize. Consider the whole instead of the pieces.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)

Love and romance are key aspects of the day, Capricorn. You should find that things relating to these aspects of your life are going well. Your mind is much more penetrating than usual, and your search for deeper knowledge can be quenched with less effort than might usually be required. Your creative spirit is anxious to find an outlet for adventure.

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb 19)

Bask in each new day, Aquarius. Do your best to spread your sunshine, but don’t be surprised if someone challenges the way you think. There are stubborn forces out there working to steer you in the direction that they’d like you to go. Make sure that you’re the one who remains in control. Keep up your positive outlook!

Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

Love and romance should be going well for you now, Pisces. Something has sparked the detective in you and you’re anxious to probe, inquire, and seek the truth in every situation. Your grounded, stable, and practical approach will be your greatest asset. Make sure to let someone else be the martyr today. You’re the one who needs to take control.

Speed Bump