2008 for me and for many has been an emotionally and physically exhausting year. Sleep became as much of a commodity as money. Aside from the daily headlines, uncertainty as to what would happen tomorrow was our greatest concern. Both in the mainland and in PR the election results were very telling of a population desperate for change, and a new vision. And in the mainland and in PR the minority party has refused to accept the election results.
In the mainland there is a greater likelihood that both parties will find a common ground to get the nation on track. Here in PR we have the third wheel which will make attaining our goals for prosperity much harder. What level of tolerance do the people of PR have for the politics of the third wheel is yet to be determined. Just as how hard will the new administration come down on those who refuse to follow law and order and justify every action as civil disobedience.
How we balance our love for the First amendment and a civilized government will be as important as to what policies we implement to get there. Ronald Reagan set the tone of his presidency when he fired all the union workers of the Air traffic controllers at the beginning of his presidency. The nation was not in the mood for me first and screw the needs of my neighbor. Though his fiscal policy left much to be desired, Ronald Reagan brought back to the American people pride and confidence lost during the Carter years.
I trust Obama will bring back this trust to America as a Nation and as a people, here and abroad. I hope and pray Fortuno will do the same in PR. Sadly, there are many who are by the sidelines wringing there hands hoping for him to fail so they can say "I told you so" and to hell the future of our island.
The press, that is the Ferre-Rangle conglomarate and the third wheel have already been thrashing the governor elect and have purposely hidden the chaos we are inheriting from two terms of atrocious governing by the Calderon/Acevedo Vila administration.
La voz del sinchi will continue, I will do my part to provide my opinion so we may have a discussion as to alternatives for a better Puerto Rico, better living environment, better future. I also make a call to those who truly believe in statehood as an alternative to the betterment and future of PR to start acting and stop talking. And the first cause of action must be to boycott the Ferre Rangel conglomerate.
To 2008 I say so long farewell. 2009 will be tough, but if we play our cards right we can start talking about the future again. Thank you, May God bless you and all your loved ones, and may the new year give us "peace, love and understanding along with health and prosperity.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Call me Grinch
It's Christmas and we are in the worst recession since the depression IE the going back to 1930's. We are not close to what transpired during those times. But, we are at the ledge staring down a very deep ravine. It's Christmas and as an employer it's time to give out Christmas bonus (yes all denominations take advantage of this great Christian giveaway). I do not mind giving out bonuses. I do mind being forced to give bonuses. And it really frosts my ass being told the amount I must give out as a bonus. This is the classic example of government bureaucrats who have no idea what it is to meet payroll, to pay a commercial loan, pay rent, you work for a living.
So, in the middle of the worst recession ever we are forced to increase the bonus amount we are to give our employees. Even the lazy bum, who you are forced to keep on payroll because getting rid of him cost too much (that a whole other issue and another bottle of whiskey). We are talking about $300.00 minimun and $600.00 depending on how many employees you have. OK, let's do some quick math, 14 employees (like the majority of small business) 300 x 14=4200.00 plus that weeks payroll. Now say you are lucky enough to have 15 employees well its 15x600=9000.00. But wait, there's more. You are paying every employee the same amount. What about the employee who's been with you through thick and thin, you can't pay him the same as "lazy bum". So, good employee gets well, pissed, bummed, disappointed, and to an extent rightly so. The law makes no distinction between the good employee and the bad, the one who always is willing to give that little extra, and the one who is always staring at the clock.
You see the law was 1. written by incompetent buffoons,2. and written to mainly benefit government employees. Since the government can play poker with our money they do not care what it costs. They can be magnanimous. The outgoing administration at the Executive level has given out over 500,000.00 in bonuses that we know of at a time when the government has to borrow to make it's payroll, is over budget, and has IOU's in the hundred of million's.
And lastly, you are one of the thousands of businesses coping with losses, struggling and want a dispensation from the government agency who regulated the bonuses ( of course there is an agency who oversees this and they too have no clue what it is to have a real job) you MUST PRESENT AN AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT FROM YOUR ACCOUNTANT. Which will cost you thousands, and will be, can be used against you in the future. Of course, no one had, has the money for an audited statement so we are stuck, screwed and having to pay the bonus required by law. Call me Grinch, I just don't feel like paying what the government tells me to those who do not deserve it. Have a Merry Christmas, courtesy of "Estado Ensuciado de Puerto Rico".
So, in the middle of the worst recession ever we are forced to increase the bonus amount we are to give our employees. Even the lazy bum, who you are forced to keep on payroll because getting rid of him cost too much (that a whole other issue and another bottle of whiskey). We are talking about $300.00 minimun and $600.00 depending on how many employees you have. OK, let's do some quick math, 14 employees (like the majority of small business) 300 x 14=4200.00 plus that weeks payroll. Now say you are lucky enough to have 15 employees well its 15x600=9000.00. But wait, there's more. You are paying every employee the same amount. What about the employee who's been with you through thick and thin, you can't pay him the same as "lazy bum". So, good employee gets well, pissed, bummed, disappointed, and to an extent rightly so. The law makes no distinction between the good employee and the bad, the one who always is willing to give that little extra, and the one who is always staring at the clock.
You see the law was 1. written by incompetent buffoons,2. and written to mainly benefit government employees. Since the government can play poker with our money they do not care what it costs. They can be magnanimous. The outgoing administration at the Executive level has given out over 500,000.00 in bonuses that we know of at a time when the government has to borrow to make it's payroll, is over budget, and has IOU's in the hundred of million's.
And lastly, you are one of the thousands of businesses coping with losses, struggling and want a dispensation from the government agency who regulated the bonuses ( of course there is an agency who oversees this and they too have no clue what it is to have a real job) you MUST PRESENT AN AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT FROM YOUR ACCOUNTANT. Which will cost you thousands, and will be, can be used against you in the future. Of course, no one had, has the money for an audited statement so we are stuck, screwed and having to pay the bonus required by law. Call me Grinch, I just don't feel like paying what the government tells me to those who do not deserve it. Have a Merry Christmas, courtesy of "Estado Ensuciado de Puerto Rico".
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
It's all about service
At the beginning of AVV tenure the government ran out of money and could not pay the hundred of thousands of government workers. The Government shut down for what was it a week a few days. During the debacle the sentiment on the street was one of complete apathy towards the workers. No one really cared and the reason was simple. The public at large sees government workers as overpaid, lazy, opportunistic, and callous towards our needs the taxpayers. This is not true of all the government workers, but the stereotype does fit the majority of them.
This dysfunctional attitude has permeated many a private industry. To the point where we are actually surprised when we receive good service. We go out of our why to promote this particular company, person, professional, whatever. I am part of this industry. There are times I could give a rats ass about a particular client, but when you least expect it that is the one person who will pass one a good word about your product.
Large corporations are particularly prone to this sort of callousness. A dear and very very close relative had such an experience with a health care provider. She as all of us is going through very difficult times and fell behind in her payment for medical insurance. Not once but...twice. The insurance company told her she now had to have her case reviewed by "the panel". Coverage denied. Coverage cost increased. But the real reason the insurance company took the action it did was due to the fact one of the insured has a pre existing condition. The delay in payment was the perfect excuse to get rid of the liability.
These are the same companies who came running to get a bail out. Citi, AIG, and all the other high priced zoot suits crooks who can't manage there companies but berate us when we fall behind in our payments. Does anyone care when these workers are out on the street. Doubt it. Like the Government workers in PR they too are over paid, if not lazy, they are greedy, callous and self righteous. Remember the Masters of the universe.
We will cheer those who bend over backwards to help us. Who go the extra mile to give us good service, that manager who will empower his employees to make a decision and help a client. Whether its about changing a cell phone, making a payment plan to keep coverage, changing the plate because the food was just not "as good as it usually is". It is about service and when we receive this service we spread the word, we recommend, we defend. The business, person, which understands this principle will survive these troubled times. The ones who don't will not or should not survive, they are not worthy of our money, time, or anything in between.
This dysfunctional attitude has permeated many a private industry. To the point where we are actually surprised when we receive good service. We go out of our why to promote this particular company, person, professional, whatever. I am part of this industry. There are times I could give a rats ass about a particular client, but when you least expect it that is the one person who will pass one a good word about your product.
Large corporations are particularly prone to this sort of callousness. A dear and very very close relative had such an experience with a health care provider. She as all of us is going through very difficult times and fell behind in her payment for medical insurance. Not once but...twice. The insurance company told her she now had to have her case reviewed by "the panel". Coverage denied. Coverage cost increased. But the real reason the insurance company took the action it did was due to the fact one of the insured has a pre existing condition. The delay in payment was the perfect excuse to get rid of the liability.
These are the same companies who came running to get a bail out. Citi, AIG, and all the other high priced zoot suits crooks who can't manage there companies but berate us when we fall behind in our payments. Does anyone care when these workers are out on the street. Doubt it. Like the Government workers in PR they too are over paid, if not lazy, they are greedy, callous and self righteous. Remember the Masters of the universe.
We will cheer those who bend over backwards to help us. Who go the extra mile to give us good service, that manager who will empower his employees to make a decision and help a client. Whether its about changing a cell phone, making a payment plan to keep coverage, changing the plate because the food was just not "as good as it usually is". It is about service and when we receive this service we spread the word, we recommend, we defend. The business, person, which understands this principle will survive these troubled times. The ones who don't will not or should not survive, they are not worthy of our money, time, or anything in between.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Could Someone please explain
The headline late this week was Luis Gutierrez and Nydia Velazquez are seeking the Senatorial seats to be vacated by Senator Clinton and President Elect Obama. To the rest of the nation Gutierrez and Velazquez are nothing more than two Hispanics seeking an opportunity to move up the congressional ladder. For the Statehood movement of Puerto Rico the potential elevation in status and power by the two members of congress is a death knell to the statehood movement.
Both Gutierrez and Velazquez believe Puerto Rico should be a sovereign nation. They are fervent believers of the IndependistaPopularhavethecakeandeatittoopansistas. They will, have in the past, and present, blocked any and all legislation to move Puerto Rico towards to road to statehood.
Here is my confusion, we are American Citizens. If as an American citizen in Puerto Rico I refuse for example to sing the Star Spangle Banner, am I anti-American? What if as a member of congress, I come to Puerto Rico and applaud the anti-American Yankee go home rhetoric, am I anti-American? And what about if I as a member of congress seek to deny 4.5 million American citizens the right to vote, am I anti American? And if as a member of congress I believe the Macheteros are a legitimate organization fighting for the freedom of the Puerto Rican people and the oppression by the colonist American government?
Or if I carry out all of the above am I just another opportunist exploiting the minority vote in the Barrrios of New York and Chicago just to get a job with pay I would not make in the real world.
So, I am confused.
As a Senator and of course member of Congress are not you supposed to pledge to defend and honor the Constitution of the United States of America. (One Nation under God for liberty and justice for ALL).
It is easy to be a champion of the Independent movement for Puerto Rico, or defend the status quo, when you are in the mainland and do not have to put up with the daily crap and third world mentality which has rotted the core of our islands values. To, as in this election, watch history being made and yet as an American citizen not being able to participate in one, if not the, most historic moment of our nations history. We were relegated to the sidelines. Given a bone to participate in a primary process of no real significance or relevance.
Now,what are we as believers of Puerto Rico as the 51st state going to do to stop this from happening. We must do something and soon.
Both Gutierrez and Velazquez believe Puerto Rico should be a sovereign nation. They are fervent believers of the IndependistaPopularhavethecakeandeatittoopansistas. They will, have in the past, and present, blocked any and all legislation to move Puerto Rico towards to road to statehood.
Here is my confusion, we are American Citizens. If as an American citizen in Puerto Rico I refuse for example to sing the Star Spangle Banner, am I anti-American? What if as a member of congress, I come to Puerto Rico and applaud the anti-American Yankee go home rhetoric, am I anti-American? And what about if I as a member of congress seek to deny 4.5 million American citizens the right to vote, am I anti American? And if as a member of congress I believe the Macheteros are a legitimate organization fighting for the freedom of the Puerto Rican people and the oppression by the colonist American government?
Or if I carry out all of the above am I just another opportunist exploiting the minority vote in the Barrrios of New York and Chicago just to get a job with pay I would not make in the real world.
So, I am confused.
As a Senator and of course member of Congress are not you supposed to pledge to defend and honor the Constitution of the United States of America. (One Nation under God for liberty and justice for ALL).
It is easy to be a champion of the Independent movement for Puerto Rico, or defend the status quo, when you are in the mainland and do not have to put up with the daily crap and third world mentality which has rotted the core of our islands values. To, as in this election, watch history being made and yet as an American citizen not being able to participate in one, if not the, most historic moment of our nations history. We were relegated to the sidelines. Given a bone to participate in a primary process of no real significance or relevance.
Now,what are we as believers of Puerto Rico as the 51st state going to do to stop this from happening. We must do something and soon.
Monday, November 24, 2008
The hangover
It's been what almost a month since the elections. The euphoria has died down. We are now facing the other reality, we have to deal with the Flaming A-hole for at least another month, plus a few days. It's been hard. It's hard to wake up in the morning pound the pavement, hustle a buck, dodge the creditors. We are not supposed to disdain the success of others, but I have to feel a certain contempt when you see someone who made his buck by cheating the system. That is what the AVV administration left us. A lot of resentment. Anger. Frustration. January can't come soon enough. Sadly some, many may not make it to January.
I would like to contribute to the economy, I can't. There is nothing left. Not a dime. I unlike many other have a job, have an income. I can't imagine those who through no fault of their own are not as fortunate. Yet, in these times we only think of "our cross" we don't have time to worry about others. And it is during these times we must care about others. In whatever little way we can.
We will come out of this debacle, the question will be at what price. What will be the body count. Like a good alcoholic I take it one day at a time. So say a prayer for your neighbor, because "there but for the grace of God, go I".
It has been a hard recoup from the party, as all hangovers returning to reality bites.
I would like to contribute to the economy, I can't. There is nothing left. Not a dime. I unlike many other have a job, have an income. I can't imagine those who through no fault of their own are not as fortunate. Yet, in these times we only think of "our cross" we don't have time to worry about others. And it is during these times we must care about others. In whatever little way we can.
We will come out of this debacle, the question will be at what price. What will be the body count. Like a good alcoholic I take it one day at a time. So say a prayer for your neighbor, because "there but for the grace of God, go I".
It has been a hard recoup from the party, as all hangovers returning to reality bites.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Bring Lawyers, Guns, and Money
The PPD is doing everything to hold on to power. The have refused to admit to the fact they, the PPD LOST. It is over. Finito. Finale. Some analyst beleive the that the honey moon granted to newly elected Govs is over. Well it never began. Today it is official the Gov is on his own. The hired guns told him "No ticket no laundry" and the Gov lost the deeeeeeeeeep pocket he was milking to get the lawyers paid.
Now he is just another shmoo who can't afford a high priced lawyer.
In the news I get the news as to how the PPD will fight class warfare. The class warfare they (the yellow press) are talking about is the gov. The poor sod does not have: a house, a car, a trust fund, a sugar daddy (he will once he's in the pen), a government to defraud (very important), contracts to give out (where is the sis when he really needs her), and all the other good stuff that comes along when you head a corrupt government.
Now the PPD is calling on Rafael Hernandez Colon to rescue the PPD. Hello do we need to recall the hell we lived under his rule. Has anybody taken the time to read the article in the Caribbean Business newspaper. He wipes his hands like Pontious Pilate. He has the balls to come out and say "I told you so". Ralphie baby you told me squat. The week before the elections you came out and ask all to vote for Anibal, the same scumbag who took your son's name and dragged it through the mud. You haven't and never had any credibility. The fact you came out the week before and asked all PPD to vote to Anibal and to make one big X under the PAVA is proof of your hypocrisy.
But this is what the PPD is all about hypocrisy. You allege to defend the poor but do everything in you power to keep the masses stupid. Yes, stupid, dumb, ignorant. You deny good education, access, health care, and above all information. Real information.
We, the new keepers of the torch are telling all involved to bring lawyers, guns and money. Not to defend Anibal but to fight the lies the PPD will try to ventilate now they are the new eunuchs of the Puerto Rico political system.
Now he is just another shmoo who can't afford a high priced lawyer.
In the news I get the news as to how the PPD will fight class warfare. The class warfare they (the yellow press) are talking about is the gov. The poor sod does not have: a house, a car, a trust fund, a sugar daddy (he will once he's in the pen), a government to defraud (very important), contracts to give out (where is the sis when he really needs her), and all the other good stuff that comes along when you head a corrupt government.
Now the PPD is calling on Rafael Hernandez Colon to rescue the PPD. Hello do we need to recall the hell we lived under his rule. Has anybody taken the time to read the article in the Caribbean Business newspaper. He wipes his hands like Pontious Pilate. He has the balls to come out and say "I told you so". Ralphie baby you told me squat. The week before the elections you came out and ask all to vote for Anibal, the same scumbag who took your son's name and dragged it through the mud. You haven't and never had any credibility. The fact you came out the week before and asked all PPD to vote to Anibal and to make one big X under the PAVA is proof of your hypocrisy.
But this is what the PPD is all about hypocrisy. You allege to defend the poor but do everything in you power to keep the masses stupid. Yes, stupid, dumb, ignorant. You deny good education, access, health care, and above all information. Real information.
We, the new keepers of the torch are telling all involved to bring lawyers, guns and money. Not to defend Anibal but to fight the lies the PPD will try to ventilate now they are the new eunuchs of the Puerto Rico political system.
Peter Principle
It's been quiet for the last few weeks. For us political junkies, the withdrawal has been a mixed bag. The uncertainty of the election is over. We won. No let me rephrase that, we kicked some serious ass. But as the old cliches go "careful what you wish for you just might get it" or "good news you made partner, bad news you now a half owner of all the debt". Fortuno faces a colossal task. World economies are tanking and consumers are truly worried, scared as to the future. Yet, he has made bold choices and he made them swiftly and under his terms.
As this is transpiring, the PPD is licking its wounds and already throwing blind punches in mid air. The PPD is now caught between a rock and a hard place. One side wants to pander to the pseudo left. Already they are warning of the oncoming class warfare, the inequities. The other end is trying to find a center, with the fear if it does accept the center it will only be merging with the PNP.
Fortuno is working to get out of the mediocrity of which this island had been held hostage for the last 8 years. He is bringing the brain trust which if the elections would have turned out differently would have left the island. These bright minds have the world to chose as a home and employer. These minds compete with the best, because they studied and learned from the best. While their counterparts were being given forced holidays at the UPI, they were burning the midnight oil, no strikes, no long weekends three times a month. Their greatest competition are not the teachers but their fellow students. They are doctors, MBA grads, Computer whiz, and they are homegrown. Ready to come back home, where they will be welcomed and needed.
Figure, for the last eight years those students that left the island have or had little desire to return. As bad as the economy is in the mainland, their intelligence is respected not looked upon as a social handicap. Yes, it will be "cool" to be able to speak both English and Spanish well. Making money legally will be the new "social paradigm".
Oh, I know it won't be peaches and creams, hugs and kisses, but it is a very important start. If we can break PR from the Peter Principle we can have a better future. Be competitive, be creative, be proud and above all we can stay here in Puerto Rico, our home.
As this is transpiring, the PPD is licking its wounds and already throwing blind punches in mid air. The PPD is now caught between a rock and a hard place. One side wants to pander to the pseudo left. Already they are warning of the oncoming class warfare, the inequities. The other end is trying to find a center, with the fear if it does accept the center it will only be merging with the PNP.
Fortuno is working to get out of the mediocrity of which this island had been held hostage for the last 8 years. He is bringing the brain trust which if the elections would have turned out differently would have left the island. These bright minds have the world to chose as a home and employer. These minds compete with the best, because they studied and learned from the best. While their counterparts were being given forced holidays at the UPI, they were burning the midnight oil, no strikes, no long weekends three times a month. Their greatest competition are not the teachers but their fellow students. They are doctors, MBA grads, Computer whiz, and they are homegrown. Ready to come back home, where they will be welcomed and needed.
Figure, for the last eight years those students that left the island have or had little desire to return. As bad as the economy is in the mainland, their intelligence is respected not looked upon as a social handicap. Yes, it will be "cool" to be able to speak both English and Spanish well. Making money legally will be the new "social paradigm".
Oh, I know it won't be peaches and creams, hugs and kisses, but it is a very important start. If we can break PR from the Peter Principle we can have a better future. Be competitive, be creative, be proud and above all we can stay here in Puerto Rico, our home.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Pandoras Box and Shredders
Well the transition of eight years of PPD malfeasance to the first Republican governor in PR since Luis Ferre is starting to take place. Man, what will they find. For eight years these pirates have had a field day. No checks, no balances. Baby it was a party and one hell of a party. Puerto Rico became bankrupt both morally and economically during these last eight years. It will take a long time to get over the hangover.
The issue here is not who was selected to be part of the transition team. We trust Fortuno and Pierluisi will have an excellent team. The issue is what to do once you open Pandora's box.
We all know the last transition was a joke. Everything got brushed under the rug. Anibal is charged with 24 counts of corruption. Others in his administration are under the scope of the Feds. We all know documents will be missing, maybe just ... misplaced. The whole communidades especiales fiasco and Cantero Frau under Sila. The contracts which have been handed out. The Fortuno team will face hundreds of potential cases of questionable acts of government mishandling of funds. Do we go for the jugular. Do we behave like Sila did, destroying everything in our path, a sort of purgatory.
I don't believe this is what Puerto Ricans want. They want government to be fixed, the economy fixed. They do not want endless hearings of corruption, Blue ribbon committees. Nonetheless, to do nothing is just as bad. For the impression will be the PPD was blameless, they just had bad luck. And we know that was not the case. We were stolen blind.
Last week we received the news Dept of Hacienda would be closed for 2 days. Yeah something to do with the A/C system. Guess what "Baby its a shredding party and guess what you are not invited".
The transition team will have to pick and choose their fights and battles, but they must fight and clean house.
Pandora's Box and the Shredders is not a rock band. It's the PPD's debauchery of the last eitgh years. Fortuno "Caveat Emptor".
The issue here is not who was selected to be part of the transition team. We trust Fortuno and Pierluisi will have an excellent team. The issue is what to do once you open Pandora's box.
We all know the last transition was a joke. Everything got brushed under the rug. Anibal is charged with 24 counts of corruption. Others in his administration are under the scope of the Feds. We all know documents will be missing, maybe just ... misplaced. The whole communidades especiales fiasco and Cantero Frau under Sila. The contracts which have been handed out. The Fortuno team will face hundreds of potential cases of questionable acts of government mishandling of funds. Do we go for the jugular. Do we behave like Sila did, destroying everything in our path, a sort of purgatory.
I don't believe this is what Puerto Ricans want. They want government to be fixed, the economy fixed. They do not want endless hearings of corruption, Blue ribbon committees. Nonetheless, to do nothing is just as bad. For the impression will be the PPD was blameless, they just had bad luck. And we know that was not the case. We were stolen blind.
Last week we received the news Dept of Hacienda would be closed for 2 days. Yeah something to do with the A/C system. Guess what "Baby its a shredding party and guess what you are not invited".
The transition team will have to pick and choose their fights and battles, but they must fight and clean house.
Pandora's Box and the Shredders is not a rock band. It's the PPD's debauchery of the last eitgh years. Fortuno "Caveat Emptor".
Tricks, Tricksters and Corruption
When I first made it back to PR from Boston, MA I was quite naive as to the workings of the local economy. It did not take long for me to catch on. I quickly gave PR a new nickname; "El Pais de los trucos". Everyone had a hook to sell you something, get something, a hustle here and a hustle there. The cable guy show up and after he's done gives me a card "in the event I need anything on the cable system just call". Mind you he would show up in the cable truck to do private work and use parts from the cable company. Same for the telephone guy, and so on.
It's a hustle but it's also a very entrenched form of corruption. One which grows from the inefficiency of big business and a big lumbering government. Yesterday I caught a few minutes of Cucusa on her new show. She was very dismayed as to the showing of the END poll showing corruption at the very last rung of the ladder of preoccupations of the Puerto Rican People. We want to hold politicians at a very high level which is the correct attitude to take. Yet we in some way or another, participate in perpetuating the atmosphere of corruption.
The reason I believe, is very simple. To do things right in Puerto Rico is counterproductive. At every single facet. You want to renew your drivers license well be ready to waste, yes waste, two full days gathering bureaucratic crap. Now what if you could pay say $50.00, 75.00 or even a hundred dollars and have someone "take care of this" for you, would you do it. Damn right. Well take this same simple example and multiply it by everything on this island. You moved to a new house, try to see if you can 1. get the electric connection the same day from a phone line and disconnecting the old line. You can't. You need to spend a day a morning at AEE to see if it can be done.
One last example. And trust me after living in Boston, city of the meanest meter maids ever. San Juan takes the grand prize. But of course we had to up the ante, how do we accomplish this, simple. Make the challenging of a parking ticket so onerous no one in their right mind would waste the time to do it. I am sure, someone has a racket going on in getting these thing "taken care of", because it is ripe for the taking. The process goes something like this.
First, you put quarters in a machine whose clock or meter is just a tad faster then say your watch. So, an hour is really 45 minutes or less. Then you have the meter maid who like a peeping tom hides behind the bush to nail you on minute past plus one second. As you approach the this individual, you note he always finishes writing the ticket. Why? Once started he cannot by law destroy the ticket. So, these guys are the worlds fastest scribblers. Then you get all pissed off. He calmly tells you you have the absolute right to challenge the ticket which is: file an appeal before x number of days, then you are sent to a preliminary hearing, then if you have sufficient cause, you get to go to the hearing, then at the hearing you present your case, then you go back to another hearing and the guy who wrote the ticket goes and decides whether or not the ticket stays. All this or just pay 35.00 of which you NEED to keep a copy because they (DTOP) never have their records up to date and you end up paying twice.
You want eradicate corruption in PR. Make life easy. Respect our time, our money, we all have enough going on in our lives to have to add all the bureaucratic BS just to get a license, a birth certificate, a copy of whatever. I am the first to confess, I'll pay the 50. 60. or 100. Just resolve it. Just save me the aggravation of having to deal with government hacks who need to justify there place here on this planet by making life miserable for the rest of us. How you used the money is not my concern. My concern is you got it fixed.
Until then, we will have the tricksters, truqueros, making money by negotiating the labyrinth of our government agencies. And of course we will have corruption.
It's a hustle but it's also a very entrenched form of corruption. One which grows from the inefficiency of big business and a big lumbering government. Yesterday I caught a few minutes of Cucusa on her new show. She was very dismayed as to the showing of the END poll showing corruption at the very last rung of the ladder of preoccupations of the Puerto Rican People. We want to hold politicians at a very high level which is the correct attitude to take. Yet we in some way or another, participate in perpetuating the atmosphere of corruption.
The reason I believe, is very simple. To do things right in Puerto Rico is counterproductive. At every single facet. You want to renew your drivers license well be ready to waste, yes waste, two full days gathering bureaucratic crap. Now what if you could pay say $50.00, 75.00 or even a hundred dollars and have someone "take care of this" for you, would you do it. Damn right. Well take this same simple example and multiply it by everything on this island. You moved to a new house, try to see if you can 1. get the electric connection the same day from a phone line and disconnecting the old line. You can't. You need to spend a day a morning at AEE to see if it can be done.
One last example. And trust me after living in Boston, city of the meanest meter maids ever. San Juan takes the grand prize. But of course we had to up the ante, how do we accomplish this, simple. Make the challenging of a parking ticket so onerous no one in their right mind would waste the time to do it. I am sure, someone has a racket going on in getting these thing "taken care of", because it is ripe for the taking. The process goes something like this.
First, you put quarters in a machine whose clock or meter is just a tad faster then say your watch. So, an hour is really 45 minutes or less. Then you have the meter maid who like a peeping tom hides behind the bush to nail you on minute past plus one second. As you approach the this individual, you note he always finishes writing the ticket. Why? Once started he cannot by law destroy the ticket. So, these guys are the worlds fastest scribblers. Then you get all pissed off. He calmly tells you you have the absolute right to challenge the ticket which is: file an appeal before x number of days, then you are sent to a preliminary hearing, then if you have sufficient cause, you get to go to the hearing, then at the hearing you present your case, then you go back to another hearing and the guy who wrote the ticket goes and decides whether or not the ticket stays. All this or just pay 35.00 of which you NEED to keep a copy because they (DTOP) never have their records up to date and you end up paying twice.
You want eradicate corruption in PR. Make life easy. Respect our time, our money, we all have enough going on in our lives to have to add all the bureaucratic BS just to get a license, a birth certificate, a copy of whatever. I am the first to confess, I'll pay the 50. 60. or 100. Just resolve it. Just save me the aggravation of having to deal with government hacks who need to justify there place here on this planet by making life miserable for the rest of us. How you used the money is not my concern. My concern is you got it fixed.
Until then, we will have the tricksters, truqueros, making money by negotiating the labyrinth of our government agencies. And of course we will have corruption.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
World hold on
Almost 18 months more or less we have been waiting for this wondrous day, event and moment. The stars had to be aligned as not only do we celebrate Luis Fortunos and Pierluisi's win. We celebrate a wonderful and miraculous moment in history. The USA has elected its first African American president. Both here and in the mainland an unquestionable win of historic proportions. Last night I sent a text to my sister who had the PRIVILEGE to vote in one of if not the most important election in the history of the United States of America. We here in Puerto Rico had to sit by the sidelines and hope others would make history for us.
With the overwhelming win of Luis we came closer with our relatives up north and after eight tumultuous years we can extend or hands out to the mainland not for a handout but for an embrace, we are not friends, we are family. As our election proved here on the island we are united by an unwavering support of the principals of democracy, life, liberty and yes as good Puerto Ricans the pursuit of happiness (sometimes we take this last principle a bit to close to heart).
Luis and his team proved we can have a campaign on the issues, with the respect and civility which is be the benchmark and standard for all others to follow. With this campaign it is much easier to reach out to others of different ideology and work to solve the daunting problems which lay ahead of us. Our island is in desperate need of healing. We can now sit down and look forward on how to tackle the issues. We will once again be the beacon of the Caribbean. The island where immigrants came from all over the world to try their hand at the great American dream.
World hold on we are back, not with a vengeance, but with courage, inspiration and hope that we will make things better. Thank you Luis and your team. Godspeed
With the overwhelming win of Luis we came closer with our relatives up north and after eight tumultuous years we can extend or hands out to the mainland not for a handout but for an embrace, we are not friends, we are family. As our election proved here on the island we are united by an unwavering support of the principals of democracy, life, liberty and yes as good Puerto Ricans the pursuit of happiness (sometimes we take this last principle a bit to close to heart).
Luis and his team proved we can have a campaign on the issues, with the respect and civility which is be the benchmark and standard for all others to follow. With this campaign it is much easier to reach out to others of different ideology and work to solve the daunting problems which lay ahead of us. Our island is in desperate need of healing. We can now sit down and look forward on how to tackle the issues. We will once again be the beacon of the Caribbean. The island where immigrants came from all over the world to try their hand at the great American dream.
World hold on we are back, not with a vengeance, but with courage, inspiration and hope that we will make things better. Thank you Luis and your team. Godspeed
Monday, November 3, 2008
From Icon to Pariah
Rossello has just arrived to PR. In his usual petulant manner, he addressed the journalist present at the airport. Some were hoping he would turn around and perhaps do the right thing. Instead, he has come up with this ridiculous notion "the people need to decide who there leader is not the leader decide for the people". I only know I know nothing. Ok, well the people decided and guess what.. you lost. You got a drubbing, a beating, an ass whooping. Yes the people spoke and decided they are not interested in reelecting an angry, divisive, childish bipolar sore loser.
I guess Rossello did not get the memo: you lost. The primaries where a clean democratic process. And in that process, again you lost. Go back to Virginia, let us be; you were once an Icon, now you are just a Pariah. You just haven't read the memo.
I guess Rossello did not get the memo: you lost. The primaries where a clean democratic process. And in that process, again you lost. Go back to Virginia, let us be; you were once an Icon, now you are just a Pariah. You just haven't read the memo.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
On Melones, Puerto Rico Pseudo Nationalist, and Populares
Well the madness, the promises, the ads are over. Tomorrow we cast our votes in what is and will be remembered as one of the most important elections in the history of Puerto Rico and the United States. In both elections we will be determining the course of our respective futures. In the mainland history is about to be made in a very positive manner. The win of Obama will be a first for a Nation long divided by issues of race. We may have turned the corner and be able to deal with issues which matter to all of us regardless of the color of our skins.
And here at home. Yes we face two paths. One will make history in a very sad and negative way. If Anibal wins, a big if, we will have elected the first Federally indicted governor in the history of Puerto Rico. We can look forward to at least a full year or two of nothing but coverage of the trial. Of a deteriorating relationship with the United Stated as our governor will be forced to attack the Federal Government as he stands trial.
Fortuno's win will give statehooders the first opportunity to nominate more then one justice to the Puerto Rico Supreme Court. The First time to nominate the comptroller for two consecutive terms. These are huge gains. And they have the Populetes running to change there depends every hour on the hour. These gains will be historic and probably the most important in the in recent PNP history.
Who are the madmen who want to make Anibals wish, this dreadful turn of events possible. The melones, the pseudo nationalist, the pseudo environmentalist. Those who are willing to let Puerto Rico go to hell in a basket so their agenda can be achieved. The David Noriega, the Graciani Miranda, the Tito Kayak. Those who wrap themselves in the "mono estrellada" and lift their fists in the sky as the national anthem of Puerto Rico is played and sit as the Star Spangled Banner is played. Or if they are like the Ferre Rangel the Star Spangled Banner is just no played, to wit the Teodoro Moscoso race. The hypocrisy of the mad cow these infected Puerto Ricans can produce enough bile to churn a saints stomach. Of course these are the same pharisees who jump in Federal court when their "rights" are being trampled. And of course don't pay me with Willie Mirandas criollo coins, we only accept cash with the face of Benji Franklin.
But..... they will not win. The people of Puerto Rico in their vast majority have to be better than the above mentioned alternative. The contradictions in the campaign have been schizophrenic. The electorate questions Fortuno capacity because he is "flojo", yet disdain Tommy Rivera Shatz because he's a pit bull. Luis is an honest hard working man who is also very successful, but the melones want a crook, who cannot even balance his own check book.
The win of Fortuno will for the first time in many years change the focus of Puerto Ricans from what can I get for myself, to what can I do for the betterment of Puerto Rico.
So, as I have stated in the past, go out vote, one X for the three PNP ballots, if you spend more than 30 seconds inside the ballot booth, you are wasting time. Wednesday we will awaken to a new dawn, full of hope, change, and in this little island of ours we will make positive history.
And here at home. Yes we face two paths. One will make history in a very sad and negative way. If Anibal wins, a big if, we will have elected the first Federally indicted governor in the history of Puerto Rico. We can look forward to at least a full year or two of nothing but coverage of the trial. Of a deteriorating relationship with the United Stated as our governor will be forced to attack the Federal Government as he stands trial.
Fortuno's win will give statehooders the first opportunity to nominate more then one justice to the Puerto Rico Supreme Court. The First time to nominate the comptroller for two consecutive terms. These are huge gains. And they have the Populetes running to change there depends every hour on the hour. These gains will be historic and probably the most important in the in recent PNP history.
Who are the madmen who want to make Anibals wish, this dreadful turn of events possible. The melones, the pseudo nationalist, the pseudo environmentalist. Those who are willing to let Puerto Rico go to hell in a basket so their agenda can be achieved. The David Noriega, the Graciani Miranda, the Tito Kayak. Those who wrap themselves in the "mono estrellada" and lift their fists in the sky as the national anthem of Puerto Rico is played and sit as the Star Spangled Banner is played. Or if they are like the Ferre Rangel the Star Spangled Banner is just no played, to wit the Teodoro Moscoso race. The hypocrisy of the mad cow these infected Puerto Ricans can produce enough bile to churn a saints stomach. Of course these are the same pharisees who jump in Federal court when their "rights" are being trampled. And of course don't pay me with Willie Mirandas criollo coins, we only accept cash with the face of Benji Franklin.
But..... they will not win. The people of Puerto Rico in their vast majority have to be better than the above mentioned alternative. The contradictions in the campaign have been schizophrenic. The electorate questions Fortuno capacity because he is "flojo", yet disdain Tommy Rivera Shatz because he's a pit bull. Luis is an honest hard working man who is also very successful, but the melones want a crook, who cannot even balance his own check book.
The win of Fortuno will for the first time in many years change the focus of Puerto Ricans from what can I get for myself, to what can I do for the betterment of Puerto Rico.
So, as I have stated in the past, go out vote, one X for the three PNP ballots, if you spend more than 30 seconds inside the ballot booth, you are wasting time. Wednesday we will awaken to a new dawn, full of hope, change, and in this little island of ours we will make positive history.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
what was not said
So last night the highest rating went to the Anibal soap opera "As I lose my shirt". A coward's plea for help. I heard the soap on the radio, as I was listening to Davila Colon, the announcement, "we interrupt this program for an important message from our Governor", Davila was pissed, 15 minutes taken away from his show for what!. And then the my radio started shedding tears, actual tears. My cat was outside and started meowing, in the most horrific and melancholic manner I ever heard. As I sat in the kitchen I saw candles been lit up by those doing there evening cardio walk. Some started swaying back and forth praying, in some ritual from the old Christians. As the show progressed people stopped their cars in befuddlement, disbelief. It started raining; a light drizzle. And Anibal kept talking, his poor dogs, "I have no car, no house, the monseigneur told me I must return the ring, I can't pawn it, the Brioni suits no longer fit me, my eyebrows are out of control and I have not money to trim them (it hurts too much to pluck them)".
Pobrecito, con esa carita de mamao, se cree que coje a uno de pend..o
Meanwhile, you could picture the monseigneur back at the Cathedral pleading to the sky, one knee bent, crying out load with uncontrollable pain.... "NOoooo....". Anibal was conceding defeat..... Or was he.
90% of the readers of that icon of literary talent, that beacon of journalism, yellow journalism, PRIMERA HORA, stated they believed the explanation the Gov. gave. Justice pava style has been done. The "Ay bendito" again saves a felon from the jaws of justice. And we wonder why were are so screwed as an island. We wonder why this malfeasant was elected in the first place. 90% of the poll. Ah but before we distress ourselves, lets review again who has this poll. PRIMERA HORA. So, its only 90% of the melons, pivazos, pseudo-nationalist, and those with major contracts with the Governor or his sister who participated in this poll.
And who were the missing characters from this first chapter, his law firm for starters. He admits to us he doesn't have a pot to piss on. He is broke. So, how does he pay for his 4 lawyers. Are the lawyers handling this case pro bono. For all the contracts they get in return they might. But they're already doing this. Which means he current legal fees and legal costs for now are covered. The rest will be taken care of by; The Melon Munoz Legal Slush Fund Blind Trust Offshore Account. Only cash is accepted and in small non sequential denominations.
And what about Mr. Gonzalez, the monopolistic tycoon from Pan American grain. Co indicted with the Gov (he shares Anibal's other papeleta). He's already stated he gave the Gov 50 cool ones. This man controls all the rice on the island. No justice department investigation. He can hold the Department of education hostage without any rice and nothing is done. Even though they are running mates in the Federal indictments, Mr. Gonzalez was conspicuously absent.
And what about the 400g's in the Partido Popular safe, the slush fund used to pay his AmEx card. Yes all cash not a dime reported. Brilliant, til you get caught.
And, if his case is so solid why employ such expensive lawyers. Court appointed lawyers are among the best and with all the publicity this case will garner, the court appointed lawyers would fall over themselves looking to get appointed to the case. I mean a good shyster would have already sued the Feds back with violation of civil rights, tarnishing an innocent mans family, who knows what creative lawyering could have evolved be a creative shyster.
Of course he did not explain the rampant nepotism as seem with his sisters. Plum contracts, which are retroactive worth millions. You gotta love this guy. Talk about "got your sista's back".
Luis Fortuno told us to beware of the 9 lies of Anibal one for every day. Luis, you missed, he gave us 100 in 15 minutes of prime time radio. He lied so much he could not remember the different version of the same events he gave last week. Like Jackie Gleason "huhmuna, huhmuna huhmuna".
Today and everyday we must remind all our friends to get out the vote if they sre voting for Luis and his ticket. All PNP's need to get out and vote. ALL PNP'S need to VOTE. AND KISS. keep it simple stupid. One cross on three ballots. If it take you more than 30 seconds you are wasting time.
Pobrecito, con esa carita de mamao, se cree que coje a uno de pend..o
Meanwhile, you could picture the monseigneur back at the Cathedral pleading to the sky, one knee bent, crying out load with uncontrollable pain.... "NOoooo....". Anibal was conceding defeat..... Or was he.
90% of the readers of that icon of literary talent, that beacon of journalism, yellow journalism, PRIMERA HORA, stated they believed the explanation the Gov. gave. Justice pava style has been done. The "Ay bendito" again saves a felon from the jaws of justice. And we wonder why were are so screwed as an island. We wonder why this malfeasant was elected in the first place. 90% of the poll. Ah but before we distress ourselves, lets review again who has this poll. PRIMERA HORA. So, its only 90% of the melons, pivazos, pseudo-nationalist, and those with major contracts with the Governor or his sister who participated in this poll.
And who were the missing characters from this first chapter, his law firm for starters. He admits to us he doesn't have a pot to piss on. He is broke. So, how does he pay for his 4 lawyers. Are the lawyers handling this case pro bono. For all the contracts they get in return they might. But they're already doing this. Which means he current legal fees and legal costs for now are covered. The rest will be taken care of by; The Melon Munoz Legal Slush Fund Blind Trust Offshore Account. Only cash is accepted and in small non sequential denominations.
And what about Mr. Gonzalez, the monopolistic tycoon from Pan American grain. Co indicted with the Gov (he shares Anibal's other papeleta). He's already stated he gave the Gov 50 cool ones. This man controls all the rice on the island. No justice department investigation. He can hold the Department of education hostage without any rice and nothing is done. Even though they are running mates in the Federal indictments, Mr. Gonzalez was conspicuously absent.
And what about the 400g's in the Partido Popular safe, the slush fund used to pay his AmEx card. Yes all cash not a dime reported. Brilliant, til you get caught.
And, if his case is so solid why employ such expensive lawyers. Court appointed lawyers are among the best and with all the publicity this case will garner, the court appointed lawyers would fall over themselves looking to get appointed to the case. I mean a good shyster would have already sued the Feds back with violation of civil rights, tarnishing an innocent mans family, who knows what creative lawyering could have evolved be a creative shyster.
Of course he did not explain the rampant nepotism as seem with his sisters. Plum contracts, which are retroactive worth millions. You gotta love this guy. Talk about "got your sista's back".
Luis Fortuno told us to beware of the 9 lies of Anibal one for every day. Luis, you missed, he gave us 100 in 15 minutes of prime time radio. He lied so much he could not remember the different version of the same events he gave last week. Like Jackie Gleason "huhmuna, huhmuna huhmuna".
Today and everyday we must remind all our friends to get out the vote if they sre voting for Luis and his ticket. All PNP's need to get out and vote. ALL PNP'S need to VOTE. AND KISS. keep it simple stupid. One cross on three ballots. If it take you more than 30 seconds you are wasting time.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Musings
As we reach the final days until the election this one unlike other elections, the stress level is phenomenal. The thought with all of us who support Luis and his team is what if we lose or worse, not lose but have the election stolen. What is our alternative. Even though I have options which make my leaving the to the mainland very plausible. I also have moral obligations which make my leaving hard. I am old school in many ways. One of the reasons I came back to the island was to spend and enjoy time with my parents. For close to 25 years I was part of the economic diaspora that left Puerto Rico during the PPD administrations of the late 70's. As time went by, the visits from my parents were not really about spending time but fulfilling a commitment. A few days here, a vacation there, a gathering for lunch. I was losing touch and my daughters were at times strangers to there grandparents.
A dear friend from PR who was with me during those years had a frightening experience which we all want to avoid. The dreaded call his mother was hospitalized with an unknown diagnosis. And there he was trying to get a flight and having to wait. After this event I convinced myself I did not want to go through that experience and started to make plans to return.
I arrived during the last years of the Rossello boom. Fast forward Sila Calderon and Anibal Acevedo Vila and at times I wonder what was I thinking. Well, I was thinking of being able to get in my car at any time and visit my parents. Of being able to share with friends and family. To call my Uncle and go sailing, share an afternoon with him, my kid brother, my father, spend an evening with my cousin just listening to music, kibitz with Mom in the kitchen. Family. La Familia. At the end of the day it's all we have and all we want and crave. Yeah, the MasterCard moments, they are priceless. And it hurts to have to chose, because I also have an obligation to my daughters and my wife, to give them a quality of life where they are safe, have a future, not have to live under constant fear. A fear where I hide under a pen name because I do not know what repercussion I may face for expressing my opinion against the dictatorship of the Populares.
I will not leave my parents, family and friends the question becomes whether I will leave Puerto Rico. Will I disassociate myself from the island. Do we give up. Thousands of Puerto Ricans have and do give up every day. How ironic, during the tenure of the Populares, Puerto Rico has undergone its greatest diaspora. It is not easy, eventually we acclimate, but this emigration should never have to take place.
A dear friend from PR who was with me during those years had a frightening experience which we all want to avoid. The dreaded call his mother was hospitalized with an unknown diagnosis. And there he was trying to get a flight and having to wait. After this event I convinced myself I did not want to go through that experience and started to make plans to return.
I arrived during the last years of the Rossello boom. Fast forward Sila Calderon and Anibal Acevedo Vila and at times I wonder what was I thinking. Well, I was thinking of being able to get in my car at any time and visit my parents. Of being able to share with friends and family. To call my Uncle and go sailing, share an afternoon with him, my kid brother, my father, spend an evening with my cousin just listening to music, kibitz with Mom in the kitchen. Family. La Familia. At the end of the day it's all we have and all we want and crave. Yeah, the MasterCard moments, they are priceless. And it hurts to have to chose, because I also have an obligation to my daughters and my wife, to give them a quality of life where they are safe, have a future, not have to live under constant fear. A fear where I hide under a pen name because I do not know what repercussion I may face for expressing my opinion against the dictatorship of the Populares.
I will not leave my parents, family and friends the question becomes whether I will leave Puerto Rico. Will I disassociate myself from the island. Do we give up. Thousands of Puerto Ricans have and do give up every day. How ironic, during the tenure of the Populares, Puerto Rico has undergone its greatest diaspora. It is not easy, eventually we acclimate, but this emigration should never have to take place.
Beware of the False Prophet
Tonight I underwent another painful encounter with mediocrity and mendacity with thank God what was the last debate for the Governorship of our wonderful Macondo. As the debate was about to start I got a on of those late night calls regarding another late bill which is due and has not been paid. I was polite and civil until the lady on the other side of the phone ask me why the payment was late. I went off like Mayor Nagin from New Orleans " Ya got to be shitting me, you really got to be shittin me". She said yes I need to make a note of it. I'm sure that's what the script tells her to say. I blew my top like the old cartoons of Herman Munster. "My bill is late due to the buffoon, crook, jackass" we have as governor. I went off on how I had to pay 1200.00 dollars for a light bill because to it is a waste of time to challenge the bill. On how if she wants my bills paid on time she better vote to get this crooked not good SOB out of Fortaleza: again all the epithets I could muster in 20 seconds came spewing out of my mouth. Was she at fault, no but its come to the point where in this uncivilized island you don't give a damn anymore. And I became another of the monsters we promise never to become.
After the tirade I calmly asked if she had any more questions, she very quietly said no and the conversation ended.
It's back to channel surfing between CSI, the major league series, Keith Oberman on MSNBC and the debate. The debate could only be watched in extremely small dosages anything greater than 15 seconds would could cause serious brain damage. Sadly from the brief glimpses I caught it was more of the same. The format sucks, the background was a bit better but still looked cheap, the questions were assinine and then we had our current Gov. our own court jester and Luis, looking quite Presidential (figuratively speaking)
The gov. is the king of cynicism. How he can get up there and argue his party will not tolerate corruption, the gimmick of looking into the camera and stating "I am innocent, I go forward with my head held high." Wringing his hands with the ring the Monseigneur gave him. As the ultimate coward he attacks Luis wife, but none of the other contenders stepped up to question this act of cowardice. Luis did, he defended the honor and called the Gov a coward. But the Gov is like one of those dumb Labradors, you can cattle prod them, and they still don't get the message. Can you imagine if the other two candidates said "you know what, attacking a mans wife and family is a disdainful act and we will not tolerate such attacks". Wow, a brief glimpse back into the Puerto Rico we were once proud of. Of course it did not happen.
Luis again was calm and collected, no home runs, a few jabs, and repeating the mantra this guy is a crook and a liar. Outlining a credible plan to get PR back on track.
How bad a liar he are some facts I came across today. American Airlines reduced its flights in Puerto Rico in large part due to the doubling of landing fees. The fees went from 1500.00 per flight to 3000.00 plus. Why? To finance the new terminal which no one needs. And the gap which other airlines were going to fill. No go. They to have had there fees doubled. So, Jet Blue, Spirit all increase fares not only as a result of the high cost of fuel, but the flight to Puerto Rico the raise in fare is due to local politic from the executive branch. Why does Puerto Rico have more connecting flights, because the landing fees in Miami, New York, Dallas, Atlanta are much cheaper, and the second leg of the flight is cheaper from these cities.
The same has happened with the cruise ship industry. These are not decisions made by the legislative branch, they are strictly within the realm of the executive. They are made by appointees of the Governor with the advise and consent of the Governor.
Yet, the false prophet, the one who has been blessed by the Monseigneur, the bearer of the ring, wants the people of Puerto Rico to give him another chance. We cannot allow this to happen, and we have an obligation to convince all within our reach to go out and vote for Luis. And please, follow the KISS principle when voting. KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID. One cross under the PNP insignia. That's it. And do not believe a word from the false prophet. Regardless of who's ring he wears
After the tirade I calmly asked if she had any more questions, she very quietly said no and the conversation ended.
It's back to channel surfing between CSI, the major league series, Keith Oberman on MSNBC and the debate. The debate could only be watched in extremely small dosages anything greater than 15 seconds would could cause serious brain damage. Sadly from the brief glimpses I caught it was more of the same. The format sucks, the background was a bit better but still looked cheap, the questions were assinine and then we had our current Gov. our own court jester and Luis, looking quite Presidential (figuratively speaking)
The gov. is the king of cynicism. How he can get up there and argue his party will not tolerate corruption, the gimmick of looking into the camera and stating "I am innocent, I go forward with my head held high." Wringing his hands with the ring the Monseigneur gave him. As the ultimate coward he attacks Luis wife, but none of the other contenders stepped up to question this act of cowardice. Luis did, he defended the honor and called the Gov a coward. But the Gov is like one of those dumb Labradors, you can cattle prod them, and they still don't get the message. Can you imagine if the other two candidates said "you know what, attacking a mans wife and family is a disdainful act and we will not tolerate such attacks". Wow, a brief glimpse back into the Puerto Rico we were once proud of. Of course it did not happen.
Luis again was calm and collected, no home runs, a few jabs, and repeating the mantra this guy is a crook and a liar. Outlining a credible plan to get PR back on track.
How bad a liar he are some facts I came across today. American Airlines reduced its flights in Puerto Rico in large part due to the doubling of landing fees. The fees went from 1500.00 per flight to 3000.00 plus. Why? To finance the new terminal which no one needs. And the gap which other airlines were going to fill. No go. They to have had there fees doubled. So, Jet Blue, Spirit all increase fares not only as a result of the high cost of fuel, but the flight to Puerto Rico the raise in fare is due to local politic from the executive branch. Why does Puerto Rico have more connecting flights, because the landing fees in Miami, New York, Dallas, Atlanta are much cheaper, and the second leg of the flight is cheaper from these cities.
The same has happened with the cruise ship industry. These are not decisions made by the legislative branch, they are strictly within the realm of the executive. They are made by appointees of the Governor with the advise and consent of the Governor.
Yet, the false prophet, the one who has been blessed by the Monseigneur, the bearer of the ring, wants the people of Puerto Rico to give him another chance. We cannot allow this to happen, and we have an obligation to convince all within our reach to go out and vote for Luis. And please, follow the KISS principle when voting. KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID. One cross under the PNP insignia. That's it. And do not believe a word from the false prophet. Regardless of who's ring he wears
Saturday, October 18, 2008
The Zen Master
Yesterday I log on and check the local news, the daily headlines has me frothing at the mouth. Our Cardinal, leader of the Catholic church, my church, is ordering the PNP camp, specifically Luis Fortuno to remove an ad which has in the "background the Cathedral of San Juan. If not remove the ad, remove the part where the Cathedral is depicted. It's 8:00 in the morning and I'm going ballistic. I'm running through my head all the crazy ass responses I would give this lame excuse for a religious person. I want to protest in front of the church hand out leaflets denouncing the double standard the socialist church has carried out in Puerto Rico. This is the same Cardinal who gave the most corrupt, evil, machiavellical, governor Puerto Rico has ever had the Cardinal ring. I mean does the Vatican even allow this. It's like something from the medieval times you read, the corrupt Church official in bed with the corrupt politician.
So, the day passes on we deal with the usual BS of our daily lives. At home my wife and I with some "vino" discuss the politics of the day. The subject of the Cardinal comes up, I again go nuts, then my wife tells me of Luis Fortuno's reaction. Totally cool. No problem your "highness", the ad will be removed. It only has a few more days left so no big deal. End of story. End of drama. Now the yellow press has to make up another headline to distract from the current problems of our island, oh like, education and the fact over 50% of our students do not make it past EIGHTH GRADE, or maybe the never ending battle with the outrageous cost of electricity, or the uncontrollable crime, with the cheap excuse it all due to drug wars.
Luis brought back the issues, to away the thunder, from the yellow press. As I wrote before, Luis is not the typical trial lawyer, he is the corporate and methodical type. With the same coolness he trumped Rossello. Kicked his sorry butt, without getting nasty (Oh yeah he called him a "cancer", oh my how cruel, little baby Rossello is going to cry; personally just calling him ass..le would sufficed) stuck to the issues.
And there is one issue where I believe Luis is the only one who can deliver. Uniting Puerto Rico. Giving us a break from the tribal politics. From the character assassination of the Sila Calderon era, from the lying and cheating of the Anibal Acevedo Vila era. We need a break from the crap and cheap politics. There is so much work to do that we cannot afford to waste a single minute discussing anything but getting the house in order. Example we cannot waste time discussing the still shot of the Cathedral San Juan in a political TV ad.
Luis is the Zen master, able to keep focused, his attention on the matter at hand, not at the red herring the yellow media will try to throw his way. He kicked Rossellos butt and he will do the same to our current crooked, lame excuse for a Governor.
So, the day passes on we deal with the usual BS of our daily lives. At home my wife and I with some "vino" discuss the politics of the day. The subject of the Cardinal comes up, I again go nuts, then my wife tells me of Luis Fortuno's reaction. Totally cool. No problem your "highness", the ad will be removed. It only has a few more days left so no big deal. End of story. End of drama. Now the yellow press has to make up another headline to distract from the current problems of our island, oh like, education and the fact over 50% of our students do not make it past EIGHTH GRADE, or maybe the never ending battle with the outrageous cost of electricity, or the uncontrollable crime, with the cheap excuse it all due to drug wars.
Luis brought back the issues, to away the thunder, from the yellow press. As I wrote before, Luis is not the typical trial lawyer, he is the corporate and methodical type. With the same coolness he trumped Rossello. Kicked his sorry butt, without getting nasty (Oh yeah he called him a "cancer", oh my how cruel, little baby Rossello is going to cry; personally just calling him ass..le would sufficed) stuck to the issues.
And there is one issue where I believe Luis is the only one who can deliver. Uniting Puerto Rico. Giving us a break from the tribal politics. From the character assassination of the Sila Calderon era, from the lying and cheating of the Anibal Acevedo Vila era. We need a break from the crap and cheap politics. There is so much work to do that we cannot afford to waste a single minute discussing anything but getting the house in order. Example we cannot waste time discussing the still shot of the Cathedral San Juan in a political TV ad.
Luis is the Zen master, able to keep focused, his attention on the matter at hand, not at the red herring the yellow media will try to throw his way. He kicked Rossellos butt and he will do the same to our current crooked, lame excuse for a Governor.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
We are Legion
In the Gospel of Mark 5:9 Jesus meets a man who is possessed by evil spirits in the region of Gerasenes speaking to him in tongues, when Jesus asks him who he is, the man replies "we are Legion for we are many". The demons recognize the power of Jesus and asked not to be returned to hell (the abyss) Jesus sends them to possess a herd of pigs who later drown in the sea of Galilee.
Recently the Rossellistas received an sign. A letter from the man to whom some refer as the messiah stating he is ready willing and able to act as governor. His followers a possessed lot, are rabid, blind and unwilling to recognize the harm they will cause, and are causing Puerto Rico, and the statehood movement. Their contempt for Fortuno is baseless and childish. Worst of all it is irrational.
Most dictatorships, grow from the ludicrous, the sense of of an ego which tells them "only I am capable of solving this problem". I have always felt that in the case of Rossello this ego was fed in large part a result of his profession and his success in the same. Rossello was a very able and successful pediatric surgeon. Like many surgeons and physicians (not all), they develop the demigod syndrome. The life of the patient is in THEIR hands in the operating room they, the surgeon, talks to God and God talks to them. This over sized ego does not bode well in a democracy but is the essential element in dictatorships.
Luis Fortuno won the primary. He ran a clean campaign. The PNP has an open primary. Which means it is open to all who are registered voters and want to exercise the right to vote. In the primaries as in the up coming elections there are many Populares who, 1) are fed up with Anibal Acevedo Vila and 2) Did not want Rossello to win as they saw him a a weaker candidate, a has been, and as a person who would continue to divide Puerto Rico and not unite the island.
Between Sila, Rossello, and now Acevedo Vila Puerto Rico has suffered its most divisive politics ever. We cannot prosper, move forward, solve our problems when we are permeated with hate and tribalism.
The Rossellistas have been following a tribal leader. They have started to speak in tongues, they contract with the most amoral person in Puerto Rico's history,Anibal Acevedo Vila. They believe they are many. They do not care the harm they cause, vengeance and hatred invades their soul. Will we, the voters and believers of statehood be able to forgive. If Luis wins it will be easy to forget. If Luis loses...may God gives us the courage and wisdom to forgive.
Recently the Rossellistas received an sign. A letter from the man to whom some refer as the messiah stating he is ready willing and able to act as governor. His followers a possessed lot, are rabid, blind and unwilling to recognize the harm they will cause, and are causing Puerto Rico, and the statehood movement. Their contempt for Fortuno is baseless and childish. Worst of all it is irrational.
Most dictatorships, grow from the ludicrous, the sense of of an ego which tells them "only I am capable of solving this problem". I have always felt that in the case of Rossello this ego was fed in large part a result of his profession and his success in the same. Rossello was a very able and successful pediatric surgeon. Like many surgeons and physicians (not all), they develop the demigod syndrome. The life of the patient is in THEIR hands in the operating room they, the surgeon, talks to God and God talks to them. This over sized ego does not bode well in a democracy but is the essential element in dictatorships.
Luis Fortuno won the primary. He ran a clean campaign. The PNP has an open primary. Which means it is open to all who are registered voters and want to exercise the right to vote. In the primaries as in the up coming elections there are many Populares who, 1) are fed up with Anibal Acevedo Vila and 2) Did not want Rossello to win as they saw him a a weaker candidate, a has been, and as a person who would continue to divide Puerto Rico and not unite the island.
Between Sila, Rossello, and now Acevedo Vila Puerto Rico has suffered its most divisive politics ever. We cannot prosper, move forward, solve our problems when we are permeated with hate and tribalism.
The Rossellistas have been following a tribal leader. They have started to speak in tongues, they contract with the most amoral person in Puerto Rico's history,Anibal Acevedo Vila. They believe they are many. They do not care the harm they cause, vengeance and hatred invades their soul. Will we, the voters and believers of statehood be able to forgive. If Luis wins it will be easy to forget. If Luis loses...may God gives us the courage and wisdom to forgive.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Dodge City
In the last three weeks in my neighborhood there have been over 15 robberies. One store which has been a landmark for the last 30 years will be closing its doors due to the last burglary in which one of the employee's had his head cracked open.
Its kinda hard to claim justice when the Tito Kayaks of the world can get away with murder. When our governor is under Federal indictment with 24 counts, when the mini me senator from the PNP is under a 32 count Federal indictment.
When Police officers are underpaid and over worked, when the justice system does not respect the work they do every day. When the truckers union can block an avenue in the middle of morning rush hour and under instructions of the Executive branch the truckers are NOT to be bothered you know the whole island is going to hell in a basket.
It's the wild west and we have no sheriff to stop the criminals. And of course none of this will be reported in the press.
Its kinda hard to claim justice when the Tito Kayaks of the world can get away with murder. When our governor is under Federal indictment with 24 counts, when the mini me senator from the PNP is under a 32 count Federal indictment.
When Police officers are underpaid and over worked, when the justice system does not respect the work they do every day. When the truckers union can block an avenue in the middle of morning rush hour and under instructions of the Executive branch the truckers are NOT to be bothered you know the whole island is going to hell in a basket.
It's the wild west and we have no sheriff to stop the criminals. And of course none of this will be reported in the press.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Like Lemmimgs
It is truly hard but understandable there are people still out there how believe either from stupidity or convenience that Anibal Acevedo Vila is a viable option and should be re-elected to four more years as Governor. It is understandable if we correlate two traits that characterize the PPD voter. They are truly like lemmings. In this elections unlike others the PPD voter will fall off the cliff. The traits are self rightous arrogance. And self rightous pseudo nationalism.
Unfortunately, those who we would like to see fall off the cliff will not, specifically the Ferre-Rangel family. The harm their sad excuse for a newspaper has caused and is causing will only be accepted when it is too late. A case in point is the "news" of the multi million dollar contracts the sister of AAV has with the government. A blatant case of nepotism. A case which started seven years ago when these contracts were first given with Sila M. Calderon. All are government contracts. And like the contracts with the defense of the Gov, here is another pay to play example.
3.2 million. That is the estimated value of her contracts. Our corrupt Gov had the gall to say she has fewer contracts, so whats the big deal. It is this affront to the decency of the majority of the Puerto Rican people which makes this individual so disdainful.
3.2 million in three years. The contracts were increased from 900k to 3.2 million. At a time when thousands of families here and in the states are losing their homes, savings, cars, unable to afford health insurance, the Gov. sister gets an increase in her contracts to 3.2 million.
This does NOT include additional fees she has generated as a result of her direct ties to her brother. This does NOT include the additional fees she has charged as additional fees for additional legal work. The amount stated in the contract is only a the framework from which the fees are generated.
Did the Ferre Rangel go through the trouble of reviewing these contracts. Have they gone through the work of informing the public like they did in the Rossello years of questionable arrangements between family members and those in government. The Ferre Rangel have been conspicuously quiet. They have gone out of there way to distract from the real issues at hand.
I only wish the indictments included the Ferre Rangel family. They, like the Gov are trying as hard as they can to lead the Puerto Rican people off the cliff like lemmings. The gov will hopefully head off to some Federal Resort, the Ferre Rangel will go to Florida, and we will be left with the pile of crap and trying to put the pieces together.
Unfortunately, those who we would like to see fall off the cliff will not, specifically the Ferre-Rangel family. The harm their sad excuse for a newspaper has caused and is causing will only be accepted when it is too late. A case in point is the "news" of the multi million dollar contracts the sister of AAV has with the government. A blatant case of nepotism. A case which started seven years ago when these contracts were first given with Sila M. Calderon. All are government contracts. And like the contracts with the defense of the Gov, here is another pay to play example.
3.2 million. That is the estimated value of her contracts. Our corrupt Gov had the gall to say she has fewer contracts, so whats the big deal. It is this affront to the decency of the majority of the Puerto Rican people which makes this individual so disdainful.
3.2 million in three years. The contracts were increased from 900k to 3.2 million. At a time when thousands of families here and in the states are losing their homes, savings, cars, unable to afford health insurance, the Gov. sister gets an increase in her contracts to 3.2 million.
This does NOT include additional fees she has generated as a result of her direct ties to her brother. This does NOT include the additional fees she has charged as additional fees for additional legal work. The amount stated in the contract is only a the framework from which the fees are generated.
Did the Ferre Rangel go through the trouble of reviewing these contracts. Have they gone through the work of informing the public like they did in the Rossello years of questionable arrangements between family members and those in government. The Ferre Rangel have been conspicuously quiet. They have gone out of there way to distract from the real issues at hand.
I only wish the indictments included the Ferre Rangel family. They, like the Gov are trying as hard as they can to lead the Puerto Rican people off the cliff like lemmings. The gov will hopefully head off to some Federal Resort, the Ferre Rangel will go to Florida, and we will be left with the pile of crap and trying to put the pieces together.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
You feel like smacking the guy
Ok even though I said I was not going to watch the debate I broke down and between CCN, MSNBC, I turned to WAPA. Call me an elitist, frankly my dear I don't give a danm but I rarely if ever watch local programming, it just sucks. Back to the debate, first who came up with the background, truly horrendous. This was a debate, not a presentation from the Tourism board. The whole feel to it was cheap.
First let me state my opinion is biased. I cannot think of anything favorable to state about our current Gov. My focus is on how did Luis do, and as biased as my opinion may be against the Gov, I can be objective as to Luis presentation.
He held his own. In the past I had written of how Luis is not the trial lawyer type. He is not in the battlefield of the courts, nor was he a legislator, accustomed to the constant haggling and debates which occur daily in the legislature. He attacked the Gov., and the institution of the Executive branch which the Gov represents. I believe he brought home two main points: 1.) The Gov is a corrupt SOB; 2.) He is a pathetic liar. Our Gov has sold his soul to the Devil so many ties he is out of credit with Lucifer himself.
Where Luis needed more was in delivering the punches once he had the Gov on the ropes. You can't back down. Here is this guy with the gall to state he is the about real change with the exact same clowns. The Gov was very skill full in linking the legislature to Luis; Luis counter attacked but not as clearly and forcefully. Again, you need to drive the sword thru the heart ( I know hard to do when your opponent does not have one but..) truth is the legislature is not a full majority of the NPP, and the majority of actions have been done by the Gov obviating the Legislative branch and issuing executive orders.
An important point Luis did not respond to or perhaps I missed, was the Gov call to arms in securing the Judicial branch. "If the NPP wins we lose control of the judicial and the NPP will do what ever it wants." ( paraphrase)And what has the PPD been doing for the last fifty years. Who decided the last elections if not the judicial branch, who has decided all the questionable issues against the NPP, if not the Judicial branch, when has the Judicial branch been in control of the NPP majority. NEVER. We as a majority should not be ashamed to state that yes we want to control the Judicial, Legislative, and Executive branch. We want it all, we want to undo all of the damage the PPD has done in the last quarter century.
But what truly was frosting my ass was the smirk on the Gov face, his rolling of the eyes, this arrogance which is any other forum would be seen as unprofessional, childish, immature. And those ears, reminded me of the wolf in Little Red Riding Hood "Oh dear what large ears". Today as always the press gives him another free pass. Yes, you feel like smacking the guy. You know, walk by and give him a good ole smack right on the side of his outstanding egghead. Just like our Moms used to do when we were well, disrespectful.
First let me state my opinion is biased. I cannot think of anything favorable to state about our current Gov. My focus is on how did Luis do, and as biased as my opinion may be against the Gov, I can be objective as to Luis presentation.
He held his own. In the past I had written of how Luis is not the trial lawyer type. He is not in the battlefield of the courts, nor was he a legislator, accustomed to the constant haggling and debates which occur daily in the legislature. He attacked the Gov., and the institution of the Executive branch which the Gov represents. I believe he brought home two main points: 1.) The Gov is a corrupt SOB; 2.) He is a pathetic liar. Our Gov has sold his soul to the Devil so many ties he is out of credit with Lucifer himself.
Where Luis needed more was in delivering the punches once he had the Gov on the ropes. You can't back down. Here is this guy with the gall to state he is the about real change with the exact same clowns. The Gov was very skill full in linking the legislature to Luis; Luis counter attacked but not as clearly and forcefully. Again, you need to drive the sword thru the heart ( I know hard to do when your opponent does not have one but..) truth is the legislature is not a full majority of the NPP, and the majority of actions have been done by the Gov obviating the Legislative branch and issuing executive orders.
An important point Luis did not respond to or perhaps I missed, was the Gov call to arms in securing the Judicial branch. "If the NPP wins we lose control of the judicial and the NPP will do what ever it wants." ( paraphrase)And what has the PPD been doing for the last fifty years. Who decided the last elections if not the judicial branch, who has decided all the questionable issues against the NPP, if not the Judicial branch, when has the Judicial branch been in control of the NPP majority. NEVER. We as a majority should not be ashamed to state that yes we want to control the Judicial, Legislative, and Executive branch. We want it all, we want to undo all of the damage the PPD has done in the last quarter century.
But what truly was frosting my ass was the smirk on the Gov face, his rolling of the eyes, this arrogance which is any other forum would be seen as unprofessional, childish, immature. And those ears, reminded me of the wolf in Little Red Riding Hood "Oh dear what large ears". Today as always the press gives him another free pass. Yes, you feel like smacking the guy. You know, walk by and give him a good ole smack right on the side of his outstanding egghead. Just like our Moms used to do when we were well, disrespectful.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Third World Politics
Get rid of the IVU, free bus fare, free college boards, free ferry to Catano, 20% no 30 % reduction on the electric bill, free, free, free. I will buy the votes, I will fool the people, I will lie cheat and steal. That's our Gov.
A friend of mine told me a story of how he got a deal to buy millions of dollars worth of goods in the US for a government in a corrupt country in Africa. Millions in clothes, TV, anything these guys could hand out before the elections to win the electorate. Other friends who served in the Peace Corps would tell me how the local politicians would hoard the goods sent in as relief or for programs and use those for there own political gain.
Is there any difference between the actions of these corrupt crooks in the 3rd world and our Gov. Do we as a pseudo-nation stoop so low as to buy into this kind of cheap politics. Why is the press, specifically the Ferre-Rangel enterprise white washing this buffoon who is destroying our island? And we wonder why we have the highest suicide rate in the world.
Here is another bit of interesting data, again contrary to popular belief the majority of the goods purchased on the September IVU holiday were paid in CASH. CASH. People are stashing it, they gave the finger to the governor and spent the cash. Millions were spent that weekend. My humble take, people are stashing the money, if by any cruel joke we get 4 more years of Anibal these folks will have the money in hand, cash to leave PR and move to the mainland. Keep the house, keep the car, keep the furniture, I want to keep my sanity and get out.
A friend of mine told me a story of how he got a deal to buy millions of dollars worth of goods in the US for a government in a corrupt country in Africa. Millions in clothes, TV, anything these guys could hand out before the elections to win the electorate. Other friends who served in the Peace Corps would tell me how the local politicians would hoard the goods sent in as relief or for programs and use those for there own political gain.
Is there any difference between the actions of these corrupt crooks in the 3rd world and our Gov. Do we as a pseudo-nation stoop so low as to buy into this kind of cheap politics. Why is the press, specifically the Ferre-Rangel enterprise white washing this buffoon who is destroying our island? And we wonder why we have the highest suicide rate in the world.
Here is another bit of interesting data, again contrary to popular belief the majority of the goods purchased on the September IVU holiday were paid in CASH. CASH. People are stashing it, they gave the finger to the governor and spent the cash. Millions were spent that weekend. My humble take, people are stashing the money, if by any cruel joke we get 4 more years of Anibal these folks will have the money in hand, cash to leave PR and move to the mainland. Keep the house, keep the car, keep the furniture, I want to keep my sanity and get out.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Jorge Rodriguez and AEE; PR Public enemy #2
Who is number #1. Our Gov of course.
But Rodriguez and AEE have done as much if not more harm to Puerto Rico than any other individual and Goverment agency. I am a small business owner, since the opening of my business less than two yars, my electric bill has increased 150%. Even more frustrating, I try to save electricity and I get screwed with the "ajuste de combustible". It's plain bullsh*t. An electric bill which at times is higher than your rent or mortgage. Regardless of what measures you take AEE will find a way to keep charging you a higher rate.
Want to get a feel for the plight of the Puerto Rican people, stand in line at the AEE office to pay the electric bill. Senior citizens with tears in their eyes, humbly begging to get e break, help, anything. All the poor sods behind the cashier window can do is nod in sympathy and say their is nothing they can do to help. Elderly or those who care for the elderly, who have to manage with a social security check and decide whether they eat that week or pay the light bill.
The squeeze is just as bad for the small business owner and the middle class. Do I pay the school, give money for lunch to my child. They are cutting back hours at work, how to make ends meet. I need to make payroll, I need to pay suppliers, the mortgage, taxes, and no relief in sight.
To blame the cost of electricity on the cost of oil is a shameless act of cowardice. Rodriguez is a disgrace. There are alternatives and long ago they could have been put into place. Instead of finding common ground with the unions, and municipal goverments he decided and continues to antagonize.
He can stop the highering of political lackey's and baffoons, AEE has so much fat it's an obese Goverment agency. AEE can buy electricity cheaper but it will still sell it at .32 per kvh. And yes it is between .27 to .37 per kvh because you have to factor in the infamous "ajuste de combustible", which many times is higher than the actual amount charged for electric comsuption.
To get rid of Rodriguez the goverment will have to pay him 1 million dollars (he is our own Dr. Evil), and who knows what other perks as part of his golden parachute at a times when the people of Puerto Rico are truly suffering and fighting to make ends meet.
We cannot compete in the global economy with the current pricing of electricity. Its is three times more expensive to operate a business in Puerto Rico than in the mainland and who know how much more expensive than the in the Dominican Republic, Colombia or Brazil. And the question arises does Rodriguez give a shit? From the answears and responses at last thursdays press conferance the answear has to be no. He could give a rat's ass. He takes the same attitude as our Gov., it is always sombody elses fault. Someone else is to blame, its the union, the cost of oil, the unwillingness of the people to sacrifice, the legislature, the press, the enviromentalist, anything and everything but my own self centered egotistical self. He is just another arrogant bastard who feels he is above the rest, an untouchable.
Meanwhile Puerto Rico continues it's downward spiral.
But Rodriguez and AEE have done as much if not more harm to Puerto Rico than any other individual and Goverment agency. I am a small business owner, since the opening of my business less than two yars, my electric bill has increased 150%. Even more frustrating, I try to save electricity and I get screwed with the "ajuste de combustible". It's plain bullsh*t. An electric bill which at times is higher than your rent or mortgage. Regardless of what measures you take AEE will find a way to keep charging you a higher rate.
Want to get a feel for the plight of the Puerto Rican people, stand in line at the AEE office to pay the electric bill. Senior citizens with tears in their eyes, humbly begging to get e break, help, anything. All the poor sods behind the cashier window can do is nod in sympathy and say their is nothing they can do to help. Elderly or those who care for the elderly, who have to manage with a social security check and decide whether they eat that week or pay the light bill.
The squeeze is just as bad for the small business owner and the middle class. Do I pay the school, give money for lunch to my child. They are cutting back hours at work, how to make ends meet. I need to make payroll, I need to pay suppliers, the mortgage, taxes, and no relief in sight.
To blame the cost of electricity on the cost of oil is a shameless act of cowardice. Rodriguez is a disgrace. There are alternatives and long ago they could have been put into place. Instead of finding common ground with the unions, and municipal goverments he decided and continues to antagonize.
He can stop the highering of political lackey's and baffoons, AEE has so much fat it's an obese Goverment agency. AEE can buy electricity cheaper but it will still sell it at .32 per kvh. And yes it is between .27 to .37 per kvh because you have to factor in the infamous "ajuste de combustible", which many times is higher than the actual amount charged for electric comsuption.
To get rid of Rodriguez the goverment will have to pay him 1 million dollars (he is our own Dr. Evil), and who knows what other perks as part of his golden parachute at a times when the people of Puerto Rico are truly suffering and fighting to make ends meet.
We cannot compete in the global economy with the current pricing of electricity. Its is three times more expensive to operate a business in Puerto Rico than in the mainland and who know how much more expensive than the in the Dominican Republic, Colombia or Brazil. And the question arises does Rodriguez give a shit? From the answears and responses at last thursdays press conferance the answear has to be no. He could give a rat's ass. He takes the same attitude as our Gov., it is always sombody elses fault. Someone else is to blame, its the union, the cost of oil, the unwillingness of the people to sacrifice, the legislature, the press, the enviromentalist, anything and everything but my own self centered egotistical self. He is just another arrogant bastard who feels he is above the rest, an untouchable.
Meanwhile Puerto Rico continues it's downward spiral.
The lies and the press
Yesterday my wife brought home a copy of El Nuevo Dia, which I did not pay for, and later during the day we caught a glimpse of the local TV news. It was a lot more painful then I would have imagined. Here is a piece of trivia, regarding Saturdays END, in 64 pages I counted 42 pages of advertising. 42 pages. Of the remaining 20 pages is what END calls news, 4 (more or less) had to do with the local election. The article on the Gov's new lawyer was basically a resume of this attorney. At no time did the article question the need for this new attorney, who would pay for this attorney fees, what is the attorney's hourly rate, why a new attorney is needed in addition to the stable of three high powered guns with all the paralegals that go along with these mega firms.
Later the local TV news. Some forum in Cayey with the candidates. The Gov is asked about this new lawyer, he replies he not new he part of the law firm. The reporter leaves it at that. He left to Washington DC to meet with this lawyer and made us believe he was looking for parity funds from congress. During the biggest financial crises the United States have encountered in the last 60 years the bozo wants us to believe he is in Washington DC looking for funds. He who is under Federal indictment. Gives us a break.
Again silence from the press. No hard questions.
This is what the press is failing to ask. Who is paying the legal fees of the Governor? How can someone making at most 75k a year afford one of the most prestigious law firms in DC.? What has been given in return for the representation of the Gov.? What are the legal fees so far? What is the hourly rate of the senior partner, paralegals? The costs of the case, because every time the lawyers come to Puerto Rico to argue a motion, the client, that is the Governor, pay the costs of; hotel, meals, airfare, transcripts, stenographer, transportation, everything. Of course the lawyers will not stay at the Ramada Inn, have dinner at at the local fonda, use carro publico, or AMA (its free these days) fly coach, and take their own notes.
During the height of the Miami drug wave in the 80's the big drug tycoons were paying the legal fees of the little fish in order to insulate themselves and guard the themselves from being linked to the drug trade and indicted. The Feds came up with an interesting approach which threw the whole criminal system on its head. The fees paid were confiscated, as being part of a larger illegal enterprise, thus the little fish could no longer afford the high priced lawyers. Furthermore, if the fee is paid by a third party the court could demand who was paying the fee, since the the question arises who does the lawyer owe his duty to, the person paying or the accused. Which always brings brings the IRS into the picture. You see, if the fee is income then its taxable, if taxable you have to declare it. Quite simple.Don't declare it as income and voila IRA violation failure to pay taxes. Can the fee be a donation? To who, a sitting Governor? That should raise an eyebrow or two.
This brings us to the current case of the Governor. Is the law firm being paid by obtaining contracts for other agencies of the government? If so are those contracts being inflated to cover the cost of representation of the governor? If such is the case, the firm arguably is in conflict of interest with the government of Puerto Rico. Its duty is to protect the interest of the people of Puerto Rico, the taxpayers and not the Governor of Puerto Rico who's accusation consists of mismanaging funds of both the Government and the People of Puerto Rico among other charges.
I hope sooner rather than later the Federal Attorney Generals office will unmask this scheme. What is being given in return to the law firm which is representing the Governor? These are legitimate questions which need to be asked and above all answered.
The numbers are not there for the Governor to afford the legal fees.
The press, radio, print, and television will not ask the hard questions. Their obfuscation with the pseudo nationalism the PPD represents is such that they rather give this pathological liar a blank check than ask him the hard questions. They will not only allow his lies to be presented as facts, they will present this distorted and perverted image to the people of Puerto Rico in a desperate attempt to get him re elected.
Later the local TV news. Some forum in Cayey with the candidates. The Gov is asked about this new lawyer, he replies he not new he part of the law firm. The reporter leaves it at that. He left to Washington DC to meet with this lawyer and made us believe he was looking for parity funds from congress. During the biggest financial crises the United States have encountered in the last 60 years the bozo wants us to believe he is in Washington DC looking for funds. He who is under Federal indictment. Gives us a break.
Again silence from the press. No hard questions.
This is what the press is failing to ask. Who is paying the legal fees of the Governor? How can someone making at most 75k a year afford one of the most prestigious law firms in DC.? What has been given in return for the representation of the Gov.? What are the legal fees so far? What is the hourly rate of the senior partner, paralegals? The costs of the case, because every time the lawyers come to Puerto Rico to argue a motion, the client, that is the Governor, pay the costs of; hotel, meals, airfare, transcripts, stenographer, transportation, everything. Of course the lawyers will not stay at the Ramada Inn, have dinner at at the local fonda, use carro publico, or AMA (its free these days) fly coach, and take their own notes.
During the height of the Miami drug wave in the 80's the big drug tycoons were paying the legal fees of the little fish in order to insulate themselves and guard the themselves from being linked to the drug trade and indicted. The Feds came up with an interesting approach which threw the whole criminal system on its head. The fees paid were confiscated, as being part of a larger illegal enterprise, thus the little fish could no longer afford the high priced lawyers. Furthermore, if the fee is paid by a third party the court could demand who was paying the fee, since the the question arises who does the lawyer owe his duty to, the person paying or the accused. Which always brings brings the IRS into the picture. You see, if the fee is income then its taxable, if taxable you have to declare it. Quite simple.Don't declare it as income and voila IRA violation failure to pay taxes. Can the fee be a donation? To who, a sitting Governor? That should raise an eyebrow or two.
This brings us to the current case of the Governor. Is the law firm being paid by obtaining contracts for other agencies of the government? If so are those contracts being inflated to cover the cost of representation of the governor? If such is the case, the firm arguably is in conflict of interest with the government of Puerto Rico. Its duty is to protect the interest of the people of Puerto Rico, the taxpayers and not the Governor of Puerto Rico who's accusation consists of mismanaging funds of both the Government and the People of Puerto Rico among other charges.
I hope sooner rather than later the Federal Attorney Generals office will unmask this scheme. What is being given in return to the law firm which is representing the Governor? These are legitimate questions which need to be asked and above all answered.
The numbers are not there for the Governor to afford the legal fees.
The press, radio, print, and television will not ask the hard questions. Their obfuscation with the pseudo nationalism the PPD represents is such that they rather give this pathological liar a blank check than ask him the hard questions. They will not only allow his lies to be presented as facts, they will present this distorted and perverted image to the people of Puerto Rico in a desperate attempt to get him re elected.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Cowardly Dogs
How twisted is the PPD or how desparate. In a sign of true cowardice they are attacking the wife of Fortuno even after her boss said she has had nothing to do with the allegations presented by the PPD. How low can you sink when you have to attack the wife of your opponent. Worst of all, we have seen how perverted, subversive and corrupt the Ferre-Rangel news conglomerate is by giving this trash credibility. Today Gerardo Cruz, get this, advises Fortuno's wife to get a lawyer. This from the guy who went on a junket to Dominican Republic at the expense of his municipality. Of course the local AG's office never investigated him or perhaps they just let the statute of limitations lapse.
To go after a candidate's wife because your opponent is honest, clean, decent and kicking your ass in the polls is a true act of desperation. The true act of a yellow-bellied man. Of course it's even more repulsive when the person making the accusation is currently indicted on 24, yes 24 counts by a Federal grand jury.
It has to be very, very hard for Fortuno to show his restraint. This administration is one of the dirtiest I have ever encountered. He is being accosted on three fronts. The Ferre-Rangel on one side, the PPD on the other (at times they can be considered one in the same), and the psycho blabbing Rossellistas on the other. Personally I have serious doubts I would be able to show any restraint. I would blow my top off. Of course that is what they want. To push so hard the beast over takes the man. Every day we hear of case after case of men beating there wife's senseless, of abuse against women, degradation and intimidation by eunuchs with a pseudo ego. Prey on the weakest. And here we have they leaders of the PPD doing just that.
How dirty is the PPD? Besides the list of the Federal indictments, persecution by the lowlife Secretary of Justice, and willingness to destroy the character of citizens without any proof. They have violated all rights to privacy, as in the case of Raschke with her electric bill and Fortuno with the leak of his finances. By the way, the Governor has yet to file his reports with the CEE. And of course the Ferre-Rangel have yet to question him or his goons about this slight oversight.
I have to take this opportunity to question why the rest of the NPP has not been more vocal against these virulent and baseless attacks. Where is Norma Burgos, Lucy Arce, Jennifer Gonzalez, Lorna Soto. Would Tommy Rivera Shatz allow this attack against any of women in his life? Is there any difference between this type of man and a wife beater? I don't think so, if you can cross this line you have already crossed the line.
It is repulsive. It is the act of cowardly dogs
To go after a candidate's wife because your opponent is honest, clean, decent and kicking your ass in the polls is a true act of desperation. The true act of a yellow-bellied man. Of course it's even more repulsive when the person making the accusation is currently indicted on 24, yes 24 counts by a Federal grand jury.
It has to be very, very hard for Fortuno to show his restraint. This administration is one of the dirtiest I have ever encountered. He is being accosted on three fronts. The Ferre-Rangel on one side, the PPD on the other (at times they can be considered one in the same), and the psycho blabbing Rossellistas on the other. Personally I have serious doubts I would be able to show any restraint. I would blow my top off. Of course that is what they want. To push so hard the beast over takes the man. Every day we hear of case after case of men beating there wife's senseless, of abuse against women, degradation and intimidation by eunuchs with a pseudo ego. Prey on the weakest. And here we have they leaders of the PPD doing just that.
How dirty is the PPD? Besides the list of the Federal indictments, persecution by the lowlife Secretary of Justice, and willingness to destroy the character of citizens without any proof. They have violated all rights to privacy, as in the case of Raschke with her electric bill and Fortuno with the leak of his finances. By the way, the Governor has yet to file his reports with the CEE. And of course the Ferre-Rangel have yet to question him or his goons about this slight oversight.
I have to take this opportunity to question why the rest of the NPP has not been more vocal against these virulent and baseless attacks. Where is Norma Burgos, Lucy Arce, Jennifer Gonzalez, Lorna Soto. Would Tommy Rivera Shatz allow this attack against any of women in his life? Is there any difference between this type of man and a wife beater? I don't think so, if you can cross this line you have already crossed the line.
It is repulsive. It is the act of cowardly dogs
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Must my Heros be Cowboys?
"Now get the hell out of here" this was Richard Pryor (paraphrased) imitating John Wayne and how he represented the great American icon the Cowboy. The swagger, the toughness, quickness of the draw of a gun, who took no BS from anyone. The Cowboy icon became to represent in great measure the leaders of our great nation. Tough, no nonsense, pragmatic, in search of the great new frontier. Reagan was the last of these "America's Cowboy" leaders. as I recall he took the "Now get the hell out of here" axiom quite literally. Today we have a vacuum in America's leadership of this American Icon, but I don't believe it's all bad.
Yesterday, I had an interesting conversation with "la familia", we got together for a very special event and as always the conversation turned to politics. Both local and mainland politics (though the mainland election is a masturbatory act, since we as US citizens do not vote but contrary to popular belief do pay taxes, if you don't believe me stop paying medicare and social security). Some at the table we're concerned that our current Felonious Governor would get re-elected. The main reason was that Fortuno was not "tough enough". In our local politics we have had our share of pseudo cowboys, recently Rossello and Barcelo. They embodied the got at it alone, don't give a damn and let get this ball rolling. Interestingly, their first terms as Governors was much better than the second. Somehow everyone got tired of the cowboy arrogance and they failed to achieve something lacking in local politics "consensus" or "reaching out to the other side of the aisle".
Our current governor is a different kind of cowboy, more like Eli Wallach in "The Good, the bad, and the ugly" with the exception he plays both the bad and the ugly. Of course the Feds play the Good, aka "Blondie". My feeling is AVV will end up like Eli Wallach, hung to dry out of his own avarice, "Blondie" will get the last laugh. Even though there is and will be little to laugh about once he is convicted but many of us will breath a sigh of relief.
This then brings me back to the comment made at the dinner table, Fortuno is not tough enough. Which left me thinking, do we really want another cowboy. Fortuno is not the trial lawyer mentality, take no prisoners. He is the corporate, contract lawyer, a very different beast and at times much more lethal. Lets remember it is the corporate lawyers who control and command Wall Street. They sit at the negotiation table, quietly nod, very polite, and before you now it, you have sighed your life away and are saying thank you!!.
Some interesting gossip, has been circulating in the press, with the "DeCastro aka psycho-mini me" scandal. He is accusing Fortuno of, can you believe this; wheeling and dealing to consolidate power. Yes, our own limp, anti cowboy is "a wheeler dealer". He did this to win the primaries, remember how everyone said his campaign was crap, he had (or has) no cojo..s, Rossello machinery will destroy him at the polls. Well, the corporate geek got the last laugh.
The result was an almost complete consolidation of the party (we are dysfunctional as De Castro has proven) with the triumph of his win in the primaries. No insults, no name calling, just quiet work, behind the scenes. Frankly, a breath of fresh air, a much need repose from the current madness.
I truly believe Fortuno will be able to reach across the aisle and give Puerto Rico the much needed rest from the tribalism which has been destroying our island. For now my hero does not need to be a cowboy.
Yesterday, I had an interesting conversation with "la familia", we got together for a very special event and as always the conversation turned to politics. Both local and mainland politics (though the mainland election is a masturbatory act, since we as US citizens do not vote but contrary to popular belief do pay taxes, if you don't believe me stop paying medicare and social security). Some at the table we're concerned that our current Felonious Governor would get re-elected. The main reason was that Fortuno was not "tough enough". In our local politics we have had our share of pseudo cowboys, recently Rossello and Barcelo. They embodied the got at it alone, don't give a damn and let get this ball rolling. Interestingly, their first terms as Governors was much better than the second. Somehow everyone got tired of the cowboy arrogance and they failed to achieve something lacking in local politics "consensus" or "reaching out to the other side of the aisle".
Our current governor is a different kind of cowboy, more like Eli Wallach in "The Good, the bad, and the ugly" with the exception he plays both the bad and the ugly. Of course the Feds play the Good, aka "Blondie". My feeling is AVV will end up like Eli Wallach, hung to dry out of his own avarice, "Blondie" will get the last laugh. Even though there is and will be little to laugh about once he is convicted but many of us will breath a sigh of relief.
This then brings me back to the comment made at the dinner table, Fortuno is not tough enough. Which left me thinking, do we really want another cowboy. Fortuno is not the trial lawyer mentality, take no prisoners. He is the corporate, contract lawyer, a very different beast and at times much more lethal. Lets remember it is the corporate lawyers who control and command Wall Street. They sit at the negotiation table, quietly nod, very polite, and before you now it, you have sighed your life away and are saying thank you!!.
Some interesting gossip, has been circulating in the press, with the "DeCastro aka psycho-mini me" scandal. He is accusing Fortuno of, can you believe this; wheeling and dealing to consolidate power. Yes, our own limp, anti cowboy is "a wheeler dealer". He did this to win the primaries, remember how everyone said his campaign was crap, he had (or has) no cojo..s, Rossello machinery will destroy him at the polls. Well, the corporate geek got the last laugh.
The result was an almost complete consolidation of the party (we are dysfunctional as De Castro has proven) with the triumph of his win in the primaries. No insults, no name calling, just quiet work, behind the scenes. Frankly, a breath of fresh air, a much need repose from the current madness.
I truly believe Fortuno will be able to reach across the aisle and give Puerto Rico the much needed rest from the tribalism which has been destroying our island. For now my hero does not need to be a cowboy.
Monday, September 8, 2008
And you ask why I drink?
Two headlines bring me back to the keyboard. How our Federally indicted governor refuses to include in the PPD party platform measures to fight corruption. The reasoning behind his decision which of course is the legislatures fault, not his, even though its his party platform we are talking about. The other how this same Governor and his most trusted lackey, "Bobby the bagman" our Sec. of Justice has decided to to approve an Executive order which allows the Governor to renew, issue, and enter into new, old and future contracts retroactively and these contracts DO NOT need to be registered with the Comptrollers office to validate the same.
Furthermore it becomes practically impossible for the legislature to adequately budget the expenditures of the current and up coming fiscal year. Therefore if the budget is screwed up and its; (drum roll) the legislatures fault. These are not petty contracts, they are worth hundreds of millions of dollars, that of course we do not have. Now I understand why the Gov. does not want to have on the PPD party platform anything measure which may be related to fighting corruption.
How can someone be such a "fuerza de cara". Take the time to read the Federal indictment sheet, read and learn of the current history of the PPD party, you tie in the comments of the Gov. and the scheme to grant the contracts while "allegedly no one is watching. Hundred of millions of dollars. The contracts guarantee a pipeline to the PPD for donations, and kickbacks in all its multiple forms. Everyone has been asking how can the PPD afford all the massive advertising, radio, print, TV, cable. All the electoral matching funds have been reported exhausted! We still have 8 weeks to the election and the heavy campaign period has not even started. But..... with all these contracts favors are guaranteed to be repayed. Its like the magician, distract with the left while the right pulls a rabbit out of the hat.
What else have the party faithful done to raise funds, they have promoted there own to key position in the government where they cannot be fired without a lawsuit for violation of civil rights ( I know, what a great country, I get promoted illegally but inherit the legal right to protect my illegally gained promotion, the PPD makes the Richard Daly political machine of yesteryear look amateur). Here the party faithful are able to raise funds within the Departmental structure, and trade keys jobs as a reward for fund raising activity. Of course cash is always preferred. These are the infamous "atornillados", highly criticized during the Rossello administration by the press, who, you got it ,is conspicuously absent from any form of fiscalization of our derelict Governor.
So as I finish reading the news my hand slowly creeps over to the allure of the anesthetizing effect of alcohol, then I remember its only 9am, I should wait until noon.
Furthermore it becomes practically impossible for the legislature to adequately budget the expenditures of the current and up coming fiscal year. Therefore if the budget is screwed up and its; (drum roll) the legislatures fault. These are not petty contracts, they are worth hundreds of millions of dollars, that of course we do not have. Now I understand why the Gov. does not want to have on the PPD party platform anything measure which may be related to fighting corruption.
How can someone be such a "fuerza de cara". Take the time to read the Federal indictment sheet, read and learn of the current history of the PPD party, you tie in the comments of the Gov. and the scheme to grant the contracts while "allegedly no one is watching. Hundred of millions of dollars. The contracts guarantee a pipeline to the PPD for donations, and kickbacks in all its multiple forms. Everyone has been asking how can the PPD afford all the massive advertising, radio, print, TV, cable. All the electoral matching funds have been reported exhausted! We still have 8 weeks to the election and the heavy campaign period has not even started. But..... with all these contracts favors are guaranteed to be repayed. Its like the magician, distract with the left while the right pulls a rabbit out of the hat.
What else have the party faithful done to raise funds, they have promoted there own to key position in the government where they cannot be fired without a lawsuit for violation of civil rights ( I know, what a great country, I get promoted illegally but inherit the legal right to protect my illegally gained promotion, the PPD makes the Richard Daly political machine of yesteryear look amateur). Here the party faithful are able to raise funds within the Departmental structure, and trade keys jobs as a reward for fund raising activity. Of course cash is always preferred. These are the infamous "atornillados", highly criticized during the Rossello administration by the press, who, you got it ,is conspicuously absent from any form of fiscalization of our derelict Governor.
So as I finish reading the news my hand slowly creeps over to the allure of the anesthetizing effect of alcohol, then I remember its only 9am, I should wait until noon.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Please, please, please
Today the Federal Grand jury finishes its cases and is to hand down indictments if the evidence is there to support them. For months the island has been holding its breath waiting for the next round, it can't happen soon enough. Since the AG Hon. Rosa Emilia Gonzalez stated there is no grace period on Federal indictments, I have been anxiously awaiting for the ax to drop on new charges against the Governor and his cronies.
Personally I believe the Federal Government has regretted handing down the indictments against the Governor so early. I guess they failed to anticipate how corrupt our press is and our islands penchant to bite the hands that feeds it.
So, please please please, let the ax fall and slap the arrogance off this Governor' face.
Personally I believe the Federal Government has regretted handing down the indictments against the Governor so early. I guess they failed to anticipate how corrupt our press is and our islands penchant to bite the hands that feeds it.
So, please please please, let the ax fall and slap the arrogance off this Governor' face.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The numbers game
Well the results are out. The latest poll from END puts Fortuno with a 16 point lead. All the analyst will defend the most corrupt Governor the island has ever had and boost about his comeback. Its both fascinating and depressing how we as a people are willing to give credence to the current administration. Anibal Acevedo Vila has been indicted on 24 counts related to criminal activity by the Federal government. With the help of El Nuevo Dia and Primera Hora the two most widely read newspapers in the island, he mas manage to make the people believe this is payback for stances he has taken against the Federal Government. With the damn "ay bendito" he has manage to shave points of the lead of Fortuno.
What the has not been told and I find invigorating is in spite of the dirty work and misinformation by END, Primera Hora, Rossello, the PPD, Fortuno and Pierluisi still have the lead. All these adverse elements have attemtedto do everything to bring down Fortuno. They have not and will not succeed in defeating him in the incoming elections.
The headline itself of today's news is a clear example how END and PH seek to carry the current governors candidacy out of the cloud of corruption and portray him as a victim.
Fortuno on the other hand has been sidetracked by the mini-me DeCastro Font just blabbering away. If only the NPP had the discipline to ignore him and concentrate on the matters at hand. Fortuno has to step up the fight, not him because its not in his nature, but his pit bulls. Pierluisi and Rivera Shatz are two guys not scared of getting into a fight, quick with tongue, and ready to throw the punch. The party secretary and campaign director need also to step up the attack.
Just like Obama told the audience during his speech, ENOUGH. We who believe in a permanent union with the United States of America say ENOUGH. The public has to be reminded incessantly who Anibal is, and the continuous harm he has done to Puerto Rico, Not just as Governor but as resident Commissioner, how we have lost millions in funds, how we have been taxed 'til there is nothing left, how the poor have been exploited leaving them with out health care, without adequate education, The economy has had zero growth. Way before the recession in the mainland came into full force, This administration had already put the breaks on growth.
Let Fortuno remind the people of Puerto Rico how Tito kayak has left hundred of families without jobs. How banks were not willing to lend a dime for any project way before the recession in the states took hold. How the ELA pays out millions of dollars in lawsuits which are a direct result of there ineptutude and arrogance.
This is no joke. We cannot afford another 4 years of this government, we cannot afford 4 years of exploitation of the middle class, the small business owner. And what of the poor, here are the hard facts, Uncle Sam is throwing less money to the island and there will less money for any and all of the programs which are meant to benefit the poor, housing, health, education, head start. The harm Anibal Acevedo Vila has caused Puerto Rico will take many years to repair if he is re elected it will be the beginning of the end.
What the has not been told and I find invigorating is in spite of the dirty work and misinformation by END, Primera Hora, Rossello, the PPD, Fortuno and Pierluisi still have the lead. All these adverse elements have attemtedto do everything to bring down Fortuno. They have not and will not succeed in defeating him in the incoming elections.
The headline itself of today's news is a clear example how END and PH seek to carry the current governors candidacy out of the cloud of corruption and portray him as a victim.
Fortuno on the other hand has been sidetracked by the mini-me DeCastro Font just blabbering away. If only the NPP had the discipline to ignore him and concentrate on the matters at hand. Fortuno has to step up the fight, not him because its not in his nature, but his pit bulls. Pierluisi and Rivera Shatz are two guys not scared of getting into a fight, quick with tongue, and ready to throw the punch. The party secretary and campaign director need also to step up the attack.
Just like Obama told the audience during his speech, ENOUGH. We who believe in a permanent union with the United States of America say ENOUGH. The public has to be reminded incessantly who Anibal is, and the continuous harm he has done to Puerto Rico, Not just as Governor but as resident Commissioner, how we have lost millions in funds, how we have been taxed 'til there is nothing left, how the poor have been exploited leaving them with out health care, without adequate education, The economy has had zero growth. Way before the recession in the mainland came into full force, This administration had already put the breaks on growth.
Let Fortuno remind the people of Puerto Rico how Tito kayak has left hundred of families without jobs. How banks were not willing to lend a dime for any project way before the recession in the states took hold. How the ELA pays out millions of dollars in lawsuits which are a direct result of there ineptutude and arrogance.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Birds of a feather flock together
What a pretty picture. Our Gov. with all of his 24 counts, at the Democratic convention hanging and chillin with no other than the "Hon." Representative from IL, Mr. Luis Gutierrez. In Gutierrez's case as with our Gov. the word Honorable must be used in quotes. Honorable:(American Heritage Dictionary) worthy of honor and respect; to bring distinction or honor.; Possessing or distinction of honor; you get the picture. Neither of these two are worthy of the actual definition of the word honorable. Of course that is why they were together at the convention. As a democrat I can state without any reserve they are a true example of why democrats get a bad rap.
Here you have a representative from the state of IL. who's loyalty to the American nation is highly questionable. Who is the worst kind of Puerto Rican nationalist, he proclaims himself to be an "Independentista" but lives in the Mainland, works for the Federal Government, gets all his Federal Government benefits, but fails to uphold the constitution of the United States and worst of all, he has Anibal Acevedo Vila as his buddy. Example, Gutierrez came to Puerto Rico to get the Navy out of Vieques. But, like the carpetbagger he is, he left others to pick up the crap and shambles the whole Vieques debacle left behind. He later came back for a fund raiser on his behalf.
Of course Anibal, is the epitome of the hypocrites, like Gutierrez he has no qualms berating the Federal Government. BUT, please, please don't stop sending me the aide I need. Of which I will use the funds post the signs of the project and fail to mention the funds derive in whole or in large part from the Federal Government. This is the clown who now wants sovereignty for Puerto Rico, (with dual passport, just in case) but wants the Federal Gov. to send him all the money paid out in benefits 5 years in the future so he can administer them. They're still laughing up in Washington D.C..
Remember when the Feds were all over the Rossello administration, then the Feds were the best thing since sliced bread. Now, "pobrecito" its a political vendetta. A vendetta for the Filiberto Ojeda case. Please. AEE cut the electricity, the Puerto Rico police secured the perimeter and he had no clue! Again, another fine example of our Governors pendant for the double standard, blatant hypocrisy or both. Then off to Denver for the Democratic convention an event which made history, with the spectacular speeches of Hillary and Bill Clinton, Ted Kennedy making his amazing appearance, Biden coming out with fighting form and for the first time in decades the Democratic party took the banner of patriotism with geniune affinity and passion. And the our Govenor, Anibal Acavedo Vila refusing to wave the american flag. A disgrace, from a pathetic excuse for a homo sapien
Acevedo Vila and Gutierrez two birds of the same feather flocking together at the Democratic convention. What a shameful picture
Here you have a representative from the state of IL. who's loyalty to the American nation is highly questionable. Who is the worst kind of Puerto Rican nationalist, he proclaims himself to be an "Independentista" but lives in the Mainland, works for the Federal Government, gets all his Federal Government benefits, but fails to uphold the constitution of the United States and worst of all, he has Anibal Acevedo Vila as his buddy. Example, Gutierrez came to Puerto Rico to get the Navy out of Vieques. But, like the carpetbagger he is, he left others to pick up the crap and shambles the whole Vieques debacle left behind. He later came back for a fund raiser on his behalf.
Of course Anibal, is the epitome of the hypocrites, like Gutierrez he has no qualms berating the Federal Government. BUT, please, please don't stop sending me the aide I need. Of which I will use the funds post the signs of the project and fail to mention the funds derive in whole or in large part from the Federal Government. This is the clown who now wants sovereignty for Puerto Rico, (with dual passport, just in case) but wants the Federal Gov. to send him all the money paid out in benefits 5 years in the future so he can administer them. They're still laughing up in Washington D.C..
Remember when the Feds were all over the Rossello administration, then the Feds were the best thing since sliced bread. Now, "pobrecito" its a political vendetta. A vendetta for the Filiberto Ojeda case. Please. AEE cut the electricity, the Puerto Rico police secured the perimeter and he had no clue! Again, another fine example of our Governors pendant for the double standard, blatant hypocrisy or both. Then off to Denver for the Democratic convention an event which made history, with the spectacular speeches of Hillary and Bill Clinton, Ted Kennedy making his amazing appearance, Biden coming out with fighting form and for the first time in decades the Democratic party took the banner of patriotism with geniune affinity and passion. And the our Govenor, Anibal Acavedo Vila refusing to wave the american flag. A disgrace, from a pathetic excuse for a homo sapien
Acevedo Vila and Gutierrez two birds of the same feather flocking together at the Democratic convention. What a shameful picture
Did Luis Jump the gun?
I get off the plane from the states and on the headlines I find the mug of De Castro Font, Mr. Kung Fu himself, being investigated by the Feds. True to form not a minute after De Castro is on every radio station, TV, blabbering about who asked for what favor from him, at what time on and on. Can you imagine being this clowns lawyer. Every time he opens his mouth the retainer fee goes up, way up. He can't help himself, and in his desperation to seek attention we will in the end be better off.
Why? Because he is yellow, and since he is yellow, he will rat out, incriminate, lie, and deal to squeal out a deal with the Feds.
But... he hasn't been accused, well at the rate he is talking it's not a matter of if, but when. And then we will stand by the sidelines to see what the fallout will be. A neat way to rid the House and Senate of the leeches it currently houses.
Luis Fortuno was right, time is of the essence, to wait is suicide, especially with De Castro. He must go and the sooner the better. By this time next month he will be as important as yesterdays paper. And if the newspaper is END, the its usefulness is measured in nanoseconds(this will be a subject I will review later).
What Luis has to be careful with is not to get into a pissing contest with Georgie the blabbermouth, to this end Tommy Rivera Shatz stepping in has given Luis the distance needed, the statesmanship to have his Lt. come in and get the troupes together to oust this clown.
Puerto Rico has so many pressing issues that the sooner he is gone the better off we all are.
Why? Because he is yellow, and since he is yellow, he will rat out, incriminate, lie, and deal to squeal out a deal with the Feds.
But... he hasn't been accused, well at the rate he is talking it's not a matter of if, but when. And then we will stand by the sidelines to see what the fallout will be. A neat way to rid the House and Senate of the leeches it currently houses.
Luis Fortuno was right, time is of the essence, to wait is suicide, especially with De Castro. He must go and the sooner the better. By this time next month he will be as important as yesterdays paper. And if the newspaper is END, the its usefulness is measured in nanoseconds(this will be a subject I will review later).
What Luis has to be careful with is not to get into a pissing contest with Georgie the blabbermouth, to this end Tommy Rivera Shatz stepping in has given Luis the distance needed, the statesmanship to have his Lt. come in and get the troupes together to oust this clown.
Puerto Rico has so many pressing issues that the sooner he is gone the better off we all are.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
What Pedro Rosello should have said
Last night I had the privilege of watching Hillary Clinton's speech at the National democratic convention on CNN. If there was any doubt of her support for Obama it was dispelled with this electrifying speech. As she told her supporters "did you do this for me or for the greater cause" (a paraphrase of course). The goal was is and will be to win the White House, senate and the house come November. I am positive that on the Republican side we will hear the same battle cry for unity. It is only in being united that we can prevail in ridding Puerto Rico of the most corrupt, vindictive, manipulating governor in the history of Puerto Rico.
If only Pedro Rossello would have done the same when Luis Fortuno won the primaries. As of today we have not heard a single comment in support of Luis Fortuno, what we have heard or read is his support for the write in movement, a cheap, petty and immature political movement composed of selfish self centered individuals. Abe Lincoln said " Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." Pedro Rosello got a taste of the power drug and became so addicted he prefers to see Puerto Rico continue on its road to ruin rather then break his addiction.
I recently traveled to Washington D.C. its was sooo hard for me to get back on that flight back to PR. I told my wife call your mom and have her send the kids over. I commented on how I felt to my mother when I arrived telling her of the trip, she was sad, real sad, not at my unwillingness to return, but as to the reason why. She and I recall a better Puerto Rico, a sweeter, dynamic, honest, hard working, Puerto Rico. An island which was the envy of all the Caribbean and Latin America, they made fun of our accent, but where in awe as to the accomplishments of this tiny island.
Fast forward 35 years and what do we have, highest homicide rate, a Governor with a 24 count indictment from the federal government. The highest unemployment rate in 30 years, electric bills so high businesses are closing, and leaving the island. A pseudo nationalistic pride based on distorted facts and lies. We have the perfect storm. Under any other circumstance Luis Fortuno would have been a shoo in yet...the former leader of the NPP party cannot break his addiction to power. We have seen Rossello true character, and it is shameful and reprehensible, certainly not worthy of any sort of Governorship.
If only Pedro Rossello would have done the same when Luis Fortuno won the primaries. As of today we have not heard a single comment in support of Luis Fortuno, what we have heard or read is his support for the write in movement, a cheap, petty and immature political movement composed of selfish self centered individuals. Abe Lincoln said " Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." Pedro Rosello got a taste of the power drug and became so addicted he prefers to see Puerto Rico continue on its road to ruin rather then break his addiction.
I recently traveled to Washington D.C. its was sooo hard for me to get back on that flight back to PR. I told my wife call your mom and have her send the kids over. I commented on how I felt to my mother when I arrived telling her of the trip, she was sad, real sad, not at my unwillingness to return, but as to the reason why. She and I recall a better Puerto Rico, a sweeter, dynamic, honest, hard working, Puerto Rico. An island which was the envy of all the Caribbean and Latin America, they made fun of our accent, but where in awe as to the accomplishments of this tiny island.
Fast forward 35 years and what do we have, highest homicide rate, a Governor with a 24 count indictment from the federal government. The highest unemployment rate in 30 years, electric bills so high businesses are closing, and leaving the island. A pseudo nationalistic pride based on distorted facts and lies. We have the perfect storm. Under any other circumstance Luis Fortuno would have been a shoo in yet...the former leader of the NPP party cannot break his addiction to power. We have seen Rossello true character, and it is shameful and reprehensible, certainly not worthy of any sort of Governorship.
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