Latin Times Magazine - 2nd Quarter 2006

Tampa Bay’s Spanglish Publication for The Elite Latino • www.latin-times.com • May/June 06 • Vol5 No.3

Spotlight: Daisy Medina and her organization, “Helping The Community”

The Hispanic Civil Rights Movement How far will we have to go?

ADENTRO: Visit Action Avenue, Bochinche Blvd, Calle Social y Cruisin La Calle for the latest in entertainment in your Barrio!

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Latin Times Top 10 Websites!

1. Latin-Times.com 2. Latin-Connections.com 3. Travel-Latino.com 4. Boricua.com 5. SalsaPower.com

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6. DaynomarProductions.com 7. TampaBayLatino.com 8. AllReggaeton.com 9. Latino-Leadership.Org 10. TampaHispanicChamber.com

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TheLatinFiles Latin Times Top 10 Websites By: Jolie R. Gonzalez

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HeadQuarters Jolie R. Gonzalez Publisher / Editor In Chief

Letter from La Editora By: Jolie Gonzalez

Marti Lopez Editor / Assitant Creative Director

On The Cover Spotlight on Daisy Medina and her organization, “Helping The Community”

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Robert Carmichael Creative Director

Biz Block

Special Feature: Meet Some of Tampa Bay’s Illustrious Hispanic Business Men

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Relocation Central

En La Cocina Arroz Criollo con Camarones.

Review of Isela Perez of Sweet Delights

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Horoscope Highway Spanglish Horoscopes.

By: La Chic A’Divina

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The Sports Room By: Marti Lopez

Calle Social By: Jolie R. Gonzalez

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Bochinche Blvd 30 Cruisin La Calle 32 E-Guide 34 JV Y Farandula 36 Action Avenue 38

Sergio Sodre Hispanic Market Liaison

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Veronica Diaz Editorial Assistant Rosa Mercado Editorial Assistant Roger Perez-Borroto Community Relations JV (Yadir Anggulo) Periodista - Internacional Max Martin Account Executive / Special Reporter Carmen Santiago Account Executive / Special Reporter Celia Renteria Szelwach Staff Writer For a one (1) year subscription (6 issues), please send a check or money order in the amount of $15.00 to: P.O. Box 262574. Tampa, FL 33685-2574 Special ThanX to God. Thank you to: Alfred Frederick for Business Photography.

Main Office: (813) 901-5292 Websites: www.TheLatinVillage.com + www.Latin-Times.com For events: www.Latin-Connections.com No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the expressed written consent from Latin-Times Magazine and/or C.L.U.B. Magazine, Inc. 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006.

Proud Members of: Tampa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, EWomen Network, Hispanic Professional Women Assocation, Latin ConneXions Network and HYPE.

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• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

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LetterfromtheEditor Hola Mi Gente Bonita de Tampa Bay y welcome to another edition of Latin Times Magazine!

Jolie R. Gonzalez Publisher Editor In Chief

Wow – these past 2 months have been awesome for Latin Times Magazine!

First things, first! Many of you may recall that we recently celebrated the first year anniversary for our 1st. Friday Latin ConneXions events! The event was held on Friday, April 7th @ Mirage Restaurant and Lounge @ 3605 W. Hillsborough Avenue (Tampa). The anniversary of 1st. Friday Latin ConneXions event was a complete success, with a FULL HOUSE and lots of excitement in the air. Orquesta Clara Salsa, an exciting local 13 piece Salsa Band, lead by Jorge Laureano of Daynomar Productions, thrilled conneXion guests with an hour-long performance that was full of exciting salsa originals written by Mr. Laureano himself! If you missed their performance you can also check them out @ DaynomarProductions.com On Sunday, April 30th of 2006 – I was officially named Hispanic Business Woman of the Year by the Puerto Rican Cultural Organization! The 18th Annual Puerto Rican Day Parade was a great event! The streets of Ybor City were lined with thousands of people, cheering in pride as they celebrated their culture.

What’s New In This Issue!

Relocation Central! – This feature was created to help the relocated Latino better acquaint themselves with the local community and with the many services available to them.

It will contain important local statistical information on subjects ranging from area demographics, to education, to community services. This feature will also provide editorials on subjects ranging from local real estate to loan information and financial advice. To find out more about this feature, please contact our office at: (813) 901-5292 or email: RelocationCentral@thelatinvillage.com.

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Y Que Mas? - Lots of NEW Adventures y Ventures! Central Florida you asked for it and here we come!

Our “infamous” Latin ConneXions Business Networking Socials is heading for Orlando, Florida. The first event (to be coined “Final Fridays”) is tentatively scheduled for Friday, June 30th 2006 in Orlando, FL. Location to be announced!

Exhibit spacing is available on a limited basis, for more information please contact LatinConneXions@thelatinvillage. com or call our office at: (813) 901-5292.

Latin Times Magazine Hits Orlando, FL! The much anticipated arrival of Latin Times Magazine in Orlando is now just around the corner! Our talented team is currently working on releasing a new edition of “Latin Times Magazine” to Central Florida this summer! Companies that are interested in advertising to this community, please contact our offices at (813) 901-5292.

Upcoming 1st Fridays EVENTS! Don’t forget to check out our upcoming events. 1st Friday Latin ConneXions Business Networking Socials continue to GROW and we have exciting new things lined up for you. Upcoming events include: Latin X-Pressions – A Cultural Art Exhibit, Monte Carlo Night, Taste of Latino – A Cultural Exploration of Latin Cuisines, A Latin Christmas y mucho, mucho MAS! In closing, I can only continue to express my heart-felt thanks to Tampa Bay’s Hispanic Community – We have enjoyed an enormous amount of support from you, how lucky I feel!

Thank you to God Y Mi familia!

See ya @ the next Latin ConneXions!

Jolie

• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

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A Closer Look at Daisy Medina and Her Organization, “Helping The Community”

A Look at Some of the Families Daisy and Helping The Community, Have Helped.

By: Jolie R. Gonzalez

Six years ago, Daisy Medina turned over a new leaf in life, choosing to dedicate herself to Tampa Bay’s impoverished and less fortunate community. Daisy established “Helping The Community” (“Ayudando La Communidad”), a local non-profit community organization dedicated to assisting people with all types of needs.

Her goal is simply to educate and help people so that they too, can one day help someone else with the knowledge gained by her guidance.

Indeed it has been a long and hard journey for Daisy Medina, but, with God’s help and the support of her many great friends and family, she has been able to continue this great mission to help as many people as possible by educating them in as many

areas possible, with the goal in mind that they, too, would be able to “pay it forward”, and teach others as well. “My greatest joy is putting a smile on someone’s face, or taking clothing to those who are in need, guiding those who need food to shelters that can provide them with food and meals. These are the things that give me joy, assisting those in need, regardless of color, sex and race”.

“Some of the things I assist my community with are daily, miniscule things, things you and I take for granted. There are still a lot of people in this world who don’t know how to read or write. These people often have trouble doing something as simple as accurately filling out a check, pay bills, fill out money orders, or open a bank account. What I do is teach them how, this way, no one can take advantage of them in any way or form.”

What Jolie Gonzalez of Latin Times Magazine says about Daisy: “Daisy is very passionate about helping others and is a great attribute to our community, having gotten to know Daisy personally as a friend, I can say that Daisy is a very humble person, who gives and gives without a single thought of receiving in return, a rarity in today’s world. I myself, owe Daisy a world of thanks for her countless words of encouragement, and for the great friendship that she has shown me”. Daisy has been pillar of wisdom and strength to so many!

A word from Daisy: “I would like to say thanks, from the bottom of my heart , thank you to those who have allowed me to guide them to a better road. There is no such thing as ‘you can’t do it’ (I say “yes

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“This family had sold a vehicle to someone. The new owner of the vehicle was in an auto crash in the vehicle sold to them by the Andres family, and simply because the Andres family had no knowledge that they were supposed to report the sale of the vehicle to the Department of Motor Vehicles, Mr. Andres was being held responsible for something he had nothing to do with.

Mr. Andres’ license was going to be suspended, so I took the time to guide him in what to do.

Mr. Andres is now able to have a vehicle of his own with no problem. They were very happy and relieved.”

“German was involved in an auto accident, he was badly injured however he thought he had no rights, nor did he know what actions to take. We educated him on his rights and how to address the situation, and he took action on his own. German was awarded a settlement for his injuries, and his vehicle’s repairs were taken care of. German is now in a position to be able to teach others.”

Daisy’s inspiration is her family. “My niece is my greatest inspiration to go on (Cecilia), my baby!

Titi loves you!”

you can”); be positive. Together with all the other agencies let’s continue helping those in need, as a team with common goals there is much more that can be accomplished.”

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It’s 2006, Can This Really Be Happening...

The Down-Spiraling Deficit of Puerto Rico

BizBlock

By: Marti Lopez SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - Puerto Rican lawmakers failed to resolve the U.S. commonwealth’s budget impasse on Monday, May 1, 2006 causing a partial government shutdown that has closed public schools and thrown nearly 100,000 people out of work.

For almost a year now, legislators and the administration have knocked heads on a plan to balance the structural budget deficit. The dispute peaked the third week of April and had stirred public anxiety, with as many as 50,000 people marching on April 28, 2006, around San Juan’s Capitol building that is home to the legislature. The statehood party that controls both chambers had favored a 4 percent sales tax while the administration had proposed a 7 percent tax rate. Both measures would distribute 1.5 percent of the consumer tax to towns and 1 percent to paying off debt.

The House on Sunday, April 30, 2006, passed a measure calling for a special tax of 5 percent on corporations on the island. But administration officials dismissed that as unconstitutional, saying the bill would violate tax contracts with many U.S. corporations on the island.

The governor and legislature remained at odds. The island currently has no sales tax. Governor Anibal Acevedo Vila said he would agree to a lower sales tax than he had previously said was necessary to secure an emergency line of credit to finish out the fiscal year. A compromise of 5.9 sales tax rate was trying to be worked out, but the Senate and House of Representatives did not offer a proposal.

All 1,600 public schools on the island closed

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Monday, two weeks before the end of the academic year, along with 43 government agencies.

Many basic functions of Puerto Rico’s government were not available because of the shutdown, which the governor said was necessary because the island did not have enough money in its budget to get through the fiscal year ending June 30.

The island closed 43 government agencies and the public schools, granting an unscheduled holiday to 500,000 students - and leaving many parents suddenly without a paycheck.

“I have to find some other way to support my family,” said Americo Santiago, 38, a government-employed laborer in the central mountain town of Jayuya.

The government is Puerto Rico’s largest employer, with some 200,000 workers. Salaries make up about 80 percent of the government’s operational costs. The shutdown - the first in Puerto Rico’s history - - happened despite last-minute attempts by Acevedo and lawmakers to agree on a bailout plan.

willing to accept a 5.9 percent sales tax — the amount offered under one Senate proposal.

Leaders in the House of Representatives said they would support only a 4 percent sales tax.

Members of the New Progressive Party, which controls the legislature, have blamed the governor for the crisis. The two sides never agreed on the 2005 or the 2006 budgets, and the government is using the 2004 budget to operate as debts pile up.

Two words come to mind: shame; disgrace.

What a shame that there has been such poor planning and mishandling of money, and what a disgrace has been afflicted to our ancestors, to our relatives who depend on these monies to live day by day.

If you would like to contribute to a fund to help the families afflicted by the mass lay-off of government employees in Puerto Rico, a fund has been set up through Banco Popular. Checks can be made payable to: Relief for Government Employees of PR and their Families. Or for more information on how you can help, please contact our office at (813) 901-5292.

Puerto Rico is saddled with a $740 million budget shortfall because the governor and lawmakers have been unable to agree on a spending plan since 2004. Conflicting sales tax proposals have been floated that would allow the island to secure a line of credit so it could pay public salaries through June 30.

Acevedo had insisted that a 7 percent sales tax was necessary to pay for an additional $640 million loan. Anything less than 7 percent would only postpone the crisis until July 1, when the next fiscal year begins, he said. The governor now says he would be

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BizBlock By: Brad Swarts

A Day Without Immigrants

Hundreds of thousands of immigrants and their supporters gathered in cities around the country in demonstrations that intend to show America the impact immigrant workers have on the nation’s economy. They called it “A Day Without Immigrants,” organizers had urged immigrants not to show up for work, not to go to school, and not to make any purchases on the day of the national rally, May 1, 2006.

sneaked into our country.” United States Senator Barack Obama, Democrat of Illinois, told the crowd in Chicago that many people in the United States do not agree that immigrants deserve many rights. “There is fear out there,” he said. “There are those who want to turn back the clock. We have to reach out to those folks and explain to them that our future will be better together than divided.”

While the demonstrations drew big crowds, not everyone agreed that the show of unity should include walking off the job, forsaking purchases or staying out of school. Leaders of the demonstrations announced that they were planning voter registration and citizenship drives across the country in an effort to transform the immigrant community into a powerful, organized political force. The demonstrations may not have impacted the economy in a large effect, but it was clear that the marches attracted huge numbers of workers and students. Chicago drew over 400,000 people and Los Angeles, saw 500,000 demonstrators.

How did this day come about?

Not everyone was cheering. Rick Bieseda, of the Chicago Minuteman Project, said he was encouraging people to “shop until they drop” at American-owned stores today. “What’s the sense of protesting? I mean, we think the whole thing is ridiculous. These people

For over a decade, the federal government has devoted increasing amounts of money and manpower to reducing undocumented immigration from Mexico with little success. More undocumented immigrants enlist the services of people-smugglers in making the increasingly difficult journey to the United States.

Many conservative Republicans understand that most immigrants come to the United States because there are jobs available for them. Unfortunately there are not enough work visa’s to go around, which results in labor shortages in many U.S. industries These free market conservatives like Brad Swarts agree that the U.S. economy would be better served by reforming the U.S. immigration system to accommodate U.S. labor demand within a system that ensures livable

wages and good working conditions for all workers, both native and foreign-born.

In the process, fewer immigrants would try to enter the United States without authorization, the market for people-smugglers would be undercut, and foreign terrorists would be deprived of the large number of immigrants to blend in with, and aid in their entry into the United States. Moreover, the U.S. Border Patrol could focus more on finding terrorists and less on apprehending jobseekers.

The debate over how to harness the emerging immigrant activism comes as politicians, church leaders and advocacy groups continue to marvel at the large numbers of immigrants, most of them Hispanic, who have turned out in recent weeks to demonstrate against a House bill, which was passed in December, that would criminalize illegal immigrants and those who help them.

Senate legislation that would have legalized most of the roughly 11 million illegal immigrants believed to be living in the United States collapsed this month amid partisan bickering over parliamentary procedure. The Senate is expected to take up immigration again when it returns from its spring recess next week.

Who’s Who: Charo Cruz Charo Cruz esta en proceso de cualificacion para la posicion de Directora de Ventas con Mary Kay Cosmetics. Su equipo esta localizado en Tampa, en proceso rapido de crecimiento y con miras a ganar el uso de un quinto automovil.

Su lema es: " ayudar las mujeres - sin distincion de raza, credo o nacionalidad"a superarse y lograr sus aspiraciones.

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Charo es miembro acitvo de la Camara de Comercio Hispana y quiere convertirse en vehiculo para enriquecer las vidas de otras personas. Su mayor deseo es ayudar a la mujer latina a crecer en todas las fases de su vida y a que puedan lograr sus metas.

Para mas informacion llame al tel. (813) 9205974 (oficina) o (813) 784-8996 (celular).

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Kerry Praises Work of Hispanic Businesses

BizBlock

Gives Keynote Speech at U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Event Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.) praised the hard work and success of Hispanic businesses for their contribution to the economic growth of America. Speaking at the opening reception of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Legislative Conference Monday, Kerry also said there is more work to be done.

“Our country’s Hispanic entrepreneurs exemplify American innovation, hard work and the American dream,” said Kerry, the Ranking Democrat on the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. “Their energy and creativity has turned into real economic success in our country, with the number of Hispanic businesses increasing at three times the national average.”

There are 1.6 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the U.S. – 13 percent of those are small firms.

Last year more than 9,000 Hispanic-owned small businesses got nearly $1.4 billion in working capital through the 7(a), 504 and micro-loan lending programs creating 42,000 jobs in their communities.

“Investing in American innovation and business

Tampa Bay Hispanic Monthly Luncheon @ Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City!

development is the cornerstone of long-term economic advancement in minority communities,” Kerry said. “We can and must be doing more to foster entrepreneurship in the Latino community. I am working with business leaders around the country to make sure all small firms get their fair share of federal contracts, capital to build and grow their businesses, and expanded access to technology like highspeed internet. We can also work together on realistic, comprehensive immigration reform that recognizes the value that immigrants provide to our communities and businesses.

“Every small business deserves a fair chance to succeed. The Hispanic-owned firms throughout our nation have increased our economic strength by $222 billion. I am committed to helping these firms continue to grow, create jobs, promote the development and use of innovative technologies, and add to the long-term growth of our economy.”

Fundraiser in support of Karen Perez Thursday, May 25th 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM At Mirage – 3605 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa Please join us on this special evening in support of Karen Perez, Democratic Candidate Florida State Representative.

There will be a complimentary buffet, Latin Jazz and a silent auction. All proceeds will go to the Karen Perez campaign.

R.S.V.P. To Attend: (813) 901-5292.

To Make A Donation: www.KarenPerez1Florida.com

1st. Fridays R 4 Networking Socials! • May/June 06 •

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RelocationCentral

Featured New Home Builder: US HOMES Featured Communities: RIVER BEND and SOUTH FORK

The community offers five distinct floor plans ranging in square feet from 1,930 to 3,271.

Finely crafted single family homes feature three to six bedrooms, two or three bathrooms and two or three car garages.

Granite kitchen countertops, wood cabinets, tile throughout all wet areas and brick paver walkways are highlighted in beautiful homes that are value priced from the low $300’s.

This issue’s featured New Home Communities and Builder are River Bend and South Fork homes built by US Homes.

River Bend has homes with elegant, open floor plans. This community with plenty of green space and a convenient location are sure to make River Bend a popular place to live in Hillsborough County.

The community, located in Ruskin, is a popular, growing area that is convenient to major transportation arteries providing easy access to the larger cities with their sports, shopping and entertainment venues.

Not only does River Bend offer the convenience of a great location, but it also showcases US Home’s signature designs. Buyers can choose from seven spacious floor plans that range in square feet from 1,568 to 3,006.

Luxury homes feature three to six bedrooms, two or three bathrooms and two or three car garages. Highlighted are spacious gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, wood cabinets and ceramic tile floors throughout all wet

areas, grand master bedrooms and wonderful family rooms that are perfect for entertaining!

Prices in this single family home community start in the mid $200’s.

The community offers residents a pool, cabana, sports court and recreation center.

River Bend is the perfect place to call home!

US Home is also proud to introduce it’s newest community, South Fork. Located in Hillsborough County, in the heart of Riverview, South Fork is close to Downtown Tampa, I-75, schools, shopping and restaurants.

Residents at South Fork can enjoy various amenities. Whether relaxing by the community pool, reading a book at the cabana or playing a friendly game of basketball on the community’s courts, there is something for everyone!

Que casitas de sueño! This home can be yours! Contact Alex Diaz with RE/MAS Gulfstream to make the dream of owning your own home come true!

For more information on River Bend, South Fork or other New Home community please call Alex Diaz with RE/ MAX Gulfstream or email : AlexDiaz@REMAX.NET

A special thank you for a special sponsor I would like to take a moment to tell you about Mike, the owner of Brocatos Sandwich Shop. Since I don’t have the pleasure of taking a lunch hour break very often to enjoy a good meal at a nice place, I usually end up going to a fast food joint on-the-run. On occasion, I have had the pleasure of going to a local sandwich shop called Brocatos and enjoying their great food and friendly service. On one of my visits during the very busy lunch time rush, I approached Mike ( the owner ) and Jo ( his father ) with a proposal for sponsorship of the Latin ConneXions networking events and asked if they could provide just a sample of what their menu had to offer. He stopped what he was doing and his reply was very quick: “Just tell me what you need brother .” I was impressed with how quickly he was willing to help and with his generosity to sponsor our event. As a customer, I felt like I was a special guest in their home and treated like a family member in need. Since that visit, I have gone to back to Brocatos for lunch to sit and enjoy their food, unique decor and to say “hi!” to Mike. On one visit while sitting in the restaurant, I watched Mike come out from behind the counter -- IN THE MIDDLE OF THE

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LUNCH RUSH -- and visit customers at their tables (calling them by name ) to see if everything was all right with their lunch. I also noticed that he kept asking one of his waitresses if she had seen “the Lady” and the waitress said, “She came in and left.” As I sat enjoying my Arroz con Pollo, I saw Mike come out from behind the counter to visit new customers and, again, he asked the waitress “where is that lady, is she around, was she looking for food?” This time the waitress said “yes, she was asking for food and she is walking down the block.” Curious as to what Mike was going to do, I watched Mike go get a Cuban sandwich and literally run outside to catch up with this homeless, hungry women just to give her the sandwich so she can eat. Needless to say, I thought about the day I had come in to ask Mike to sponsor our event and remembered how quick he was to offer help.

On that day, I did feel like a very special customer and like family, but now I see that I’m part of a great BIG family called Bracatos customers......

Thanks Mike.

– Sergio Sodre, Loyal Customer

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RelocationCentral A home is usually the largest single investment any of us will ever make. When you purchase a home, you will purchase several types of insurance coverage to protect your home and personal property. A unique coverage known as title insurance protects against hidden title hazards that may threaten your financial investment in your home.

Title Insurance is not as well understood as other types of home insurance, but it is just as important. You see, when purchasing a home, instead of purchasing the actual building or Respectfully submitted by: Marlene Butkus Stewart Title of Tampa 813-872-9898 Hablo Español mbutkus@stewart.com www.StewartTampa.com

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Why Title Insurance?

land, you are really purchasing the title to the property – the right to occupy and use the space. That title may be limited by rights and claims asserted by others, which may limit your use and enjoyment of the property and even bring financial loss. Title Insurance protects these types of hazards.

Other types of Insurance that protect your home focus on possible future events and charge an annual premium on the other hand, title insurance protects against loss from hazards and defects that already exist in the title

and is purchased with one-time premium.

There are two basic kinds of title insurance: • Lender or mortgagee protection • Owner’s coverage Most lenders require mortgagee title insurance as security for their investment in real estate, just as they may call you for fire insurance and other types of coverage as investor protection.

Owner’s title insurance lasts as long as you, the policyholder – or your heirs – have an interest in the insured property.

Stewart Title of Tampa provides comprehensive real estate closing services and issues real estate title insurance. We’ve been in the Tampa Bay area for 50 years and have closed and written title insurance for much of Tampa. We’re growing -- we now have seven strategically located offices. Our newest branch is in Land O’ Lakes!! We are also located in Brandon, Carrollwood, Lakeland, New Port Richey (Allied Title), South Tampa and Temple Terrace. Call Stewart Title of Tampa with a contract today – we’re ready to serve you.

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Meet Some of Tampa Bay’s Illustrious Hispanic Business Men In a tribute to the strong, Latin, family-oriented and community-oriented men in our community, Latin Times Magazine takes great pleasure y orgullo, to introduce you to some of these hombres who reside in our Tampa Bay barrio.

These fine upstanding gentlemen are our neighbors, our brothers, our fathers, our tios y our amigos.

Meet some of our pride and joy!

By: Marti Lopez y Jolie Gonzalez

Gilberto “Gil” Sanchez Gilberto "Gil" Sanchez, age 29, was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia. At the age of twelve, he moved to Buga, Colombia, were he resided for four years.

In 1993, Gil moved back to the U.S. where he began his long-run in achieving an excellent education and graduated from Riverview High School in Sarasota, Florida. He began his freshman year of college at the University of Florida ("UF") in Fall 1995 (home of the Florida Gators!) and majored in Political Science and also received a minor and certificate in Latin American Studies. Gil was involved with the UF Student Body, having served as President of the Colombian Student Association, President of the Hispanic Student Association, Student Senator, Member of Delta Chi fraternity and the leadership Honorary, Florida Blue Key.

ness in law school, raising $150,000.00 in financing for the start-up company! After graduation, Gil moved to Tampa where he currently practices Corporate law, Immigration and Civil litigation with the law firm Maney & Gordon, P.A. www.maneygordon.com.

A busy and determined young man, Gil also interned in Washington, D.C. for U.S. Senator Bob Graham in Summer 1998. Upon graduation, Gil was admitted to law school at the U.F. Levin College of Law. As a law student, Gil was President of the Law College Council and ran for U.F. Student Body President. Gil also started his first busi-

Gil Sanchez is certainly the epitome of what makes a Latina Mom proud, a community-loving Latino man indeed. And, what does a hard-working Latino hombre like Mr. Gil do for fun: he is a competitive tennis player and enjoys Latin dancing!

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Gil is currently involved in a diverse group of community based organizations, including: Co-Chair and Board member of HYPE (Hispanic Young Professional Entrepreneurs (www.hypetampabay.org); Co-Chair of Interact with Emerge Tampa (www.emergetampa.com); V.P. and Board Member of Tampa Hispanic Heritage, Inc.; Member of Kiwanis Downtown of Tampa; Secretary and Board Member of HBIF (www.hbiftampa.org); and he is involved with the Legislative Committee of Tampa Bay Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Bay Area Advisors, Alianza de Tampa and U.F. Law Advisory Council. Gil is President of Bleu Whale Entertainment, LLC since 1997, a special events company.

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Dpty Juan J. Gonzalez Deputy Juan J. Gonzalez started his career in law enforcement with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office in 1995 as a Reserve Deputy, volunteering his time for the community. In January 2001, Deputy Gonzalez was hired full-time at the Sheriff’s Office. During his first year, Deputy Gonzalez became a Domestic Violence Investigator within the patrol division. Deputy Gonzalez also became a C.R.I.T. deputy (Critical Respond Incident Team). This is a deputy who has specialized training in responding to calls for service, involving mentally ill and /or suicidal subjects.

Gonzalez is also one of eleven team members assigned to the Sheriff’s Office Hostage Negotiation Team. The primary responsibility of the team is to respond to situations involving hostage(s) and/or barricaded subject(s). One of the requirements is to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Jose N. Vazquez With words like “Everybody makes mistakes, I am a human person just like you” and “I am going to turn this world upside-down” (M.L.K. Jr.), the most controversial democratic candidate for State House District 58, Jose N. Vazquez starts his campaigning in the month of May. Mr. Vazquez comments: “I have received a lot of [proposals] for stepping out of this race, but like any man of Puerto Rican descent with principles, I cannot accept this type of humiliation.”

Mr. Vazquez has over 10 years of political experience and his previous experiences include working with different mayors, congressmen, senators and lots of candidates. “I want to help the state of Florida and

for that reason I am in this race, the community needs to have the political balance in Tallahassee and I know how to make the difference. I am the only candidate with real life experience and real heart-felt reasons for helping this community.”

To learn about Jose N. Vazquez, or to be part of the campaigning team, please send an e-mail to: vazquezdist58@yahoo.com or call: 813-429-4968. 24 /7

Joseph W. Aguiar Dr. Joseph Aguiar received his medical degree from the University of Iowa and went on to complete a five year residency in General Surgery at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. He received his Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training at Indiana University Medical Center in Indianapolis and completed a Hand and Microvascular Surgery fellowship at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

Dr. Aguiar is fluent in Portuguese and trained with the world renowned Plastic and Cosmetic surgeon Ivo Pitanguy in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He is a candidate for membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and a member of the American Medical Association. He has authored numerous publications and has presented his research nationally.

Dr. Aguiar lives in Westchase with his wife and 3 children.

Juan is currently assigned to the Refugee Victimization Service Unit. The unit educates and assists new refugees and non-English speaking individuals within the county.

Gonzalez said, “My job is to help people no matter what language or country they are from. I have the best job in the sheriff’s office.”

Deputy Gonzalez, the community of Hillsborough County is very happy to have you in the sheriff’s office!

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5/12/06 10:15:52 AM

Amilcar JimenezGomez (AKA “AJ”) Amilcar Jiminez-Gomez was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He possesses a BBA in Business Administration with a Major in Marketing and Management, a BA in Arts, an MBA in Marketing and an MMS in Managerial Science.

Back in the 80’s, Amilcar (AJ) start his career in the media with Cristobal Berrios, on his radio Program “Arriba Puerto Rico, El Club de Mr. Bloop”. After working in radio, AJ worked with several musical groups, including Menudo and created and produced two musical groups in Puerto Rico, namely Grupo ORO and Grupo Karismma. In college, AJ produced several shows, including “Explosion ‘87”, the prototype for “Joventud Vibra,” the largest artistic youth show produced in Puerto Rico. Expanding his experience, AJ started producing theater. He produced several pieces, namely: Las Preciosas Ridiculas, Pipo Subway (comedy), Capitanes de la Escoria, La Herencia, Susana Quiere Ser Decente, Ellas Son Las Que Son, Depurado and Inside Dreams. AJ also produced “Ilusiones,” a musical/theater piece, which was a fundraiser for the Puerto Rico Aids Foundation.

While working in such productions, AJ also worked with various educative and non-forprofit institutions such as: Inter American University of Puerto Rico (Marketing Officer); International School of Tourism, Ana G. Mendez University System (Marketing/Administration Director); and American Red Cross, Puerto Rico Chapter (Chief Operating Officer).

At this point in his life, AJ decided to establish his own business and developed “Proyectos y Proyectos,” a non-for-profit organization who’s mission is to help other small businesses develop themselves. His experience and on-going career brings AJ to

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Alfred William “Al” Frederick Mr Frederick grew up in Westerville Ohio, a suburb of the capital Columbus. For his senior year in High School 1977 he was awarded an American Field Service (AFS) scholarship to live as an exchange student in Caracas, Venezuela. Living in another country broadened his horizons and awoke an interest in foreign cultures especially Hispanic cultures. He graduated cum laude from Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio in 1982 with a BA degree, with majors in International Business, Mathematics, and Spanish. During his junior year in College, he studied at the Centro de Estudios Universitarios Colombo-Americano (CEUCA) in Bogotá, Colombia. Immediately after finishing his undergraduate, Mr. Frederick pursued his 2 year Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida.

After graduating, Mr. Frederick decided to return to Caracas, Venezuela to work at Banco Latino in 1984.

He stayed with the bank until 1993 when he left his final position as International Area Vice President.

During his tenure there he wrote the largest correspondent banking agreement in Latin America with Chase Manhattan Bank and financed the $120MM Cristobal Colon Natural Gas Project in Zulia state. He then took the General Manager/ Managing Partner position of EBNA Bank in Willemstad, Curacao an affiliate of Banco Exterior Caracas in 1993. In 1998 he started working as the Operations Manager of Heptagon Securities, LTD, an offshore brokerage firm incorporated in the British Virgin Islands.

In June 2000, Mr Frederick left Venezuela and returned to the states with his family making a home in Tampa, Florida, due to the unstable political situation in Venezuela. During June 2001 Mr Frederick became a financial advisor with MassMutual Financial Group and in 2002 he was named new agent of that year.

In 2002 Mr Frederick joined the Tampa Bay Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and in October 2004 he was asked to join the board of directors as membership director. Under his guidance, the chamber grew from approximately 150 members in 2004 to 650 in December 2005. In January 2006, Mr Frederick was elected the President. Al Frederick resigned his position as President of the Tampa Bay Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in May of 2006 to pursue other avenues.

In October 2005 along with the mayor of Tampa Mr Frederick received the prestigious Amigo award from Tampa Bay Hispanic Heritage Inc. for his work in the Hispanic market in Tampa. He is presently the Florida State Communications Officer for the League of Latin American Citizens (LULAC), a committee member of Boy Scout Troop 45, a 2005 board member of the National Society of Hispanic MBAs, and a member of the Venezuelan Suncoast Association. He enjoys his life here in Tampa with his wife and 2 sons. His daughter is a legacy at Ohio Wesleyan University. meet Sandra Acevedo (Puerto Rico Cultural Parade President) and JV. With JV, Amilcar worked in different activities, not only in NY, but also in other states, Florida being the most important platform for AJ’s career. Here in Florida, AJ has been working as the Master of Ceremonies for the Puerto Rico Patron Saint Festival, as well as in the Puerto Rico Cultural Parade of Tampa. He also made commercial voice-overs for one of

the most important TV Stations in Tampa.

AJ also became part of the HBIF (Hispanic Business initiative Fund) resources for the Central Florida, as well as a member of the Gloria Rivera Cultural Foundation of Puerto Rico, Board of Trustees.

AJ’s wish is to continue working here in Tampa, not only for the Hispanic community, but for everyone who has a need.

• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

5/12/06 10:15:57 AM

Mario Diaz 10 News This Morning and Tampa Bay's 10 News at Noon Anchor Mario Diaz has wasted little time getting to know the Tampa-St. Petersburg community. After arriving here in the summer of 2002, the Emmy award-winning journalist has grown to love the community's diverse array of people, restaurants, sporting events and coastal quality of life.

Diaz has covered subjects that range from the aftermath of hurricanes that have impacted the Gulf Coast to Mike Tyson's legal problems. Always inquisitive, his interest in what is happening around him fuels a passion for delivering great stories to his audience.

Diaz was born in Los Angeles. The son of Chilean immigrants, he is the youngest of four children and the first in his family born in the United States. Raised in a Spanish-speaking home, he learned English at school and that provided him with invaluable life experiences.

His bilingual skills have not only been showcased on Tampa Bay’s 10 newscasts, but also since 1992, on over 100 world championship fights on Spanish-language boxing telecasts on HBO and in English on ESPN. In 1999, The New York Times featured him in an article on the sports broadcast industry.

Diaz has spent nearly half his life working

in television. At 16, he approached a CNN anchor at a boxing match in Las Vegas and expressed an interest in broadcasting. Encouraged by that encounter, Diaz interned while in high school and became a sports producer at KVBC, the NBC affiliate in Las Vegas. In 1991, he took an internship at CNN's Atlanta headquarters.

Upon returning to Las Vegas, Diaz returned to KVBC as a news editor and in the spring of 1992 moved as a sports producer to the ABC affiliate KTNV. After two years there, while attending the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, he began working as weekend sports anchor in 1994 Diaz left Las Vegas in August 2002 to co-anchor WTSP Channel 10's "Life Around The Bay." He became the Morning News co-anchor in July, 2004. "I may be one of the few that actually enjoys waking up at 2:30am,'' Diaz says.

In his spare time, Diaz enjoys running along Bayshore Boulevard, savoring Bay Area haunts, going tee to green, traveling and keeping a close eye on current events. A member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, he is also on the Board of Tampa's Hispanic Heritage, a member of the FBI's Citizen's Academy alumni organization, and in 2003 established the monthly GiveBack program with the Hillsborough County School District.

Tony Morejon

Tony is Hillsborough County’s Hispanic Affairs Liaison. He is responsible for establishing and maintaining relations between Hillsborough County government and the Hispanic community.

He also consults different agencies reference Hispanic issues on behalf of the community.

Previous experience in government came as a social worker for the State of Florida for two years, followed by eight years as a social worker for Hillsborough County. In 1991 he was promoted to County Administration as Records Manager and within two years also became the Property Manager as well. In 1994 He became Hillsborough County’s Hispanic Affairs Liaison. It is a challenge since Hillsborough County has a diverse Latino community with large populations of Cubans, Colombians, Mexicans and Puerto Ricans as well as other Latino groups making their homes in the area. Championed for and conducted the first Spanish language Hurricane and Disaster Seminar in 2004.

Rogelio Pérez-Borroto Outstanding publicist and business man, Rogelio Perez-Borroto is originally from Cuba.

Rogelio is the President and Director of Latin Yankee Multimedia, who’s main goal is to make American businesses and Corporations become familiar with the Latin community in Tampa Bay, as well as to let

them know that the Latino/Hispanic community market is the 2nd largest market, not only in terms of people, but also as a commercial power. Rogelio also has other businesses, including one of Safety & Security for Artists, here in Tampa Bay. This outstanding Latino also worked as the Community Relations Liaison with Latin Times

Magazine, as well as with the 2006 Puerto Rican Cultural Parade as an Artistic Director.

Rogelio’s goal is to continue working with the Hispanic/Latino Community, and help them, as well as the American business gather together as one family. In that way, both cultures will merge together and will get the very best of each one, for each one.

1st. Fridays R 4 Networking Socials! • May/June 06 •

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21 5/12/06 10:16:00 AM

EnLaCocina By: Tita de Cocina

Arroz Criollo con Camarones

Who doesn’t like a good plato de Arroz Criollo con Camarones? Check it out, you don’t have to run out to one of the fabulous kitchens at your local latin restaurants for this flavor, it’s not hard to make at all! Follow this recipe for a suculent shrimp in creole rice pallet journey: This receta serves 4 to 6 people.

You will use • 3 ½ to 4 cups of rice; • 1 ½ pounds of shelled shrimp, • sofrito, • alcaparados, • olive oil, • tomato sauce, • your seasonings (salt, pepper, sazon with coloring, adobo) • (optional: a lime and some Blue Star Crab Meat - - comes in a vacuum pack in your seafood section) and Sofrito: you can use the already bought, or make some fresh sofrito yourself

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To make sofrito, use plenty of cilantro and garlic. Also use green peppers, spanish yellow onion, ajices dulces, red pepper and fresh rosemary...yes rosemary!

First, remove the shells from the shrimp and put the shells in a pot. Boil the shells in 1 quart of water. You will save this caldito to use as the water to boil the rice and shrimp in (keep all the flavor!!)

Next, in your olla de arroz, put a generous amount of sofrito (approx 3 tablespoons) to boil (or “so-freir”) in 4 tablespoons of olive oil; Now put in your rice, put in your shrimp, put in your shrimp stock (the water from the shells), an additional two tablespoons of olive oil and your seasonings to taste. If you have opted to get the Crab Meat and the lime, cut the lime in two and squeeze one half of the lime and put in about half of the crab meat in with these ingredients.

as you would any rice dish. Add an additional cup or two of water if it seems your rice could use a little more so that the rice cooks fully through. You may garnish the top layer of the rice with additional cilantro in abundance and some red pimiento for added flavor. Remove the garnishments before serving.

In twenty minutes, you should have a SHRIMPLY DELICIOUS arroz criollo con camarones.

A good pot of habichuelas guisadas and some tostones goes great with this dish. Con Provecho! Me envitas!!

Mix everything together and put to simmer

5/12/06 10:16:02 AM

Comiendo Con Mama Cubana Meet Isela Perez – Sweet Delights By: Veronica Diaz

Isela Perez is the owner of Sweet Delights. She was born in Matanzas, Cuba & recently relocated to the Tampa Bay area from Chicago, IL. From the time Isela began her studies, in Cuba, she has always studied cooking and baking. She has also taken cake-decorating courses with Wilton, in Darien, IL. She has traveled abroad to Columbia, Puerto Rico and Mexico for further training. While residing in Chicago she worked for 10 years in an upscale Italian restaurant where she received a lot of experience with the Italian cuisine. On the side she had her own catering business. Of course being a native Cuban she is an excellent cook with Cuban cuisine. She is a member of the ICES (International Cake Exploration). She is now a retired Chicago grade school teacher and just dedicated to her catering business.

Isela will make your wedding, bridal shower, birthday or whatever the special occasion may be, a memorable one with a delicious cake with exquisite avors and unique designs especially created for your special day. Her custom-made cakes will be designed from various styles: European, American and Latin.

Isela also makes her delicious cakes with Splenda for those with Diabetes that still have a sweet tooth.

Visit Isela at her new website: SweetDelights.ws or call: (813) 925-3426 or (813) 385-7183.

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5/12/06 10:16:06 AM

HoroscopeHighway By: La Chic A’Divina

Aries (March 21 – April 19) Mamita/Papito, there is some serious romance in the aire for you this summer, and not a moment to soon para disfrutar el verano! Your fiery passionate nature draws you to others who share your zest for life. Your sign is proof positive that chivalry and romance no esta muerto. When you see somebody you like, you have no trouble letting them know.

You have a gift for making the object of your affection feel as though they are the only persona in the world!

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Your planeta de amor will guide you to a storybook romance, pero cuando –preguntas??? Try not to worry so much, that day could be just around the corner chico/a and this summer promises to bring you all the romance and passion you have been dreaming of.

Gemini (May 21 – June 21) The fastest way to your lover’s Corazon may well be through their stomach. You are a master at creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere that is deliciously seductive. Invita a tu querido/ a over para una cena de candlelight. Be sure to prepare comfort foods that warm the blood and soothe the espiritu. It wouldn‘t hurt to keep the wine flowing either!

Cancer (June 22 – July 22) Passionate y unpredictable, you lead with you your Corazon in all things, especially el amor. It’s no wonder that you prefer partners who are more emotional than intellectual. Although you are secretive by nature, you don’t bother to hide your feelings when you are attracted to somebody. You like to undress people with your eyes, and have a knack for making

A Spanglish Horoscope

the most innocent compliment sound like a raunchy proposal.

all in good fun and its going to be a great summer!

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Vibrante! Adventuresome, and free-spirited, you take a lighthearted approach toward love. Your method of seduction is probably the same as one sees on playgrounds. Como te gustan los juegos! You spot someone que te gusta and tease them mercilessly, and may even chase them around a bit. It’s

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Beneath that reserved façade beats the Corazon of a true sensualist. Your self-assurance is a veritable aphrodisiac.

Take the initiative with your querido/a, wherever y whenever possible. Suggest a fancy cena at a romantic restaurant followed by una noche de baile and treat the object of your affection with a glimpse of your wicked sense of humor!

Jimmy Smits was born (July 9, 1955) and raised in Brooklyn. Unlike Bobby, he never raised pigeons.

He did play football in high school, but gave it up to try his hand at acting.

Apparently considering that just a pipe dream, he majored in education at Brooklyn College and worked as a community organizer in the New York area for several years.

Eventually, he caught the bug again, and went back to school, getting his masters in theater at Cornell in 1982. He traveled the country doing repertory theater until getting his first big break as Don Johnson’s initial partner on “Miami Vice,” who got killed in the pilot episode. A few years later, he was cast as noble public-defender-turned-corporate-litigator Victor Sifuentes on Steven Bochco’s “L.A. Law.” Smits was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Emmy every year he was on the show, and won the award in 1990.

The Tastefully Talented Robert Carmichael In his own words, “born and bred in the home of the GREATEST Baseball team ever, The Bronx Bombers (NY Yankees),” Robert Carmichael has been in the design field for the last 20 years. His professional background is extensive in printing, magazine and newspaper design, point of purchase, direct mail, logo design and website design. Robert received his AA in Graphic Design from Bergen Community College and is also a certified computer graphic artist with The Center for Media Arts in NYC. In October 2004, Robert moved to Florida to be closer to his beautiful six year old son, Idel. At that time, he started working as a consultant with PBS&J in their corporate offices in Miami.

In November of 2005, he then moved to Tampa

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to work full time for the Tampa office of PBS&J. Always the entrepreneur Robert Carmichael is a deejay, produces music, co-owns a small recording studio in Miami, and just started two businesses: 1) Bodega Multimedia Inc. is a small boutique design studio which will help companies reach the Latino market using all facets of design. and 2) Siempre Palante, a clothing line intended to uplift the young Latinos living in the US, which showcased it’s first line of t-shirts at the Puerto Rican Festival and Parade in Tampa on April, 30th. I stopped by his booth and the clothing designs were definitely empowering and extremely appealing for young Latinos.

Que mucho talento tiene Mr. Carmichael!

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 23) Quick-witted y deliciously aloof, tratas el amor as a grand experiment. Brains attract you more than beauty does. You may be tempted to trade in the sparks of a new relationship for the security you felt with an ex, pero make sure you are positive about your decision before saying good-bye to la persona that makes your Corazon beat a tad faster every time you see them.

Scorpio (Oct. 24 – Nov. 21) You need someone with a keen wit and sharp intellect to keep you on your toes. When it comes to amor, you will not just wait around –que impaciente eres! You want results, and you want them ahora! Woo the object of your affection with clever jokes, funny observations y muchos compliments!

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You are the last person to wear your heart on your sleeve –prefieres a more tactical approach to el amor. Study your querido/a’s body language to learn how they like to be approached. Take careful note of their appearance todo los dias y compliment them often. Your fine ojo for details should earn you lots of carino!

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) A Sensual soul like you needs someone who shares your love of lush textures rich colors and pleasuring sonidos! Once you have set your sights on someone special, begin a slow and steady program of seduction. Lay a single flower on your qurido/a’s doorstep every day for a week.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) There is something so sweet and vulnerable about you, que sera? People can’t help but want to protect you. Shake your head with admiration cada vez your querido/a says anything halfway intelligent, and consult them whenever you have the slightest problem. Pretty soon you will have a virtual esclava/ o de amor on your hands!

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Nadie is more idealistic about el amor than you! Necesitas un compañero/a who values relationships above all else!

Your favorite form of seduction is intellectual. Find out what ideas uplift and inspire el objeto of your affection.

• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

5/12/06 10:16:11 AM

Carlos Arroyo: Star Light, Star Bright This Estrella Continues to Shine

SportsRoom

By: Marti Lopez

FLASHBACK: February 24, 2006. Carlos Arroyo first enters the court with the Orlando Magic midway through the second quarter. Arroyo’s fellow Puerto Ricans came in caravans that night, his first home-game appearance in Orlando; Each time Arroyo touched the ball, his “Puerto Rican Magic section” erupted. He grabbed a rebound and got a standing ovation. The referee called Arroyo for an obvious reach-in foul and there was a deep, loud chorus of boos. Arroyo hit a 10-foot bank shot and two men actually hugged, they were so joyous! And there was a sign that read: “Welcome Home, Carlos.”

AND NOW: April 7, 2006: It is Latin Night at the Orlando Magic game. TD Waterhouse was completamente sold out. His Puerto Rican fans brought flags, signs and, more than anything, they brought their Island Pride. There were even fans that flew in from his proud island of Puerto Rico to see

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him play. The fans at TD Waterhouse estaban felizes throughout the game, and about 30 minutes after the game, a couple thousand fans remained, many leaning over the railing waiting for Arroyo. Finally, Arroyo strode to mid-court in a navy blue pinstripe suit, and, in Spanish, addressed a crowd that nearly drowned him out. Arroyo told the fans he wants to make it a long career in Orlando. Then he walked off the court, leaving the court in the good hands of Victor Manuelle who gave a stellar performance and turned the TD Waterhouse into “Festival Arroyo!” By the way, the Orlando Magic beat the Detroit Pistons 89 to 87, a victorious win against the team that

the Central Floridians acquired Arroyo from, their bitter loss is our sweet gain!

It’s been said by some in Orlando, “For us, [“Arroyo”] is to basketball what Roberto Clemente was to baseball.” Carlos Arroyo fans in Orlando hope that Arroyo’s success will lead to more Puerto Ricans in the NBA. They call Arroyo “an icon” and say his arrival in Orlando has increased his celebrity.

In July 2006, Arroyo will be the featured athlete in the league’s Basketball Beyond Borders trip to San Juan.

5/12/06 10:16:13 AM

FashionSquare

METRO-SEXUAL MACHISMO:

Can the Latino Man be a Metro-Sexual? U Betcha!

The term Metro-sexual has become somewhat of a common word, of late. The word Metro-sexual was born in England in 1994, coined by British journalist Mark Simpson. “The typical Metro-sexual is a young man with money to spend, living in or within easy reach of a metropolis - because that’s where most of the best shops, clubs, gyms and hairdressers (ok, or “fade shops”) are. He is undoubtedly a straight man, but it’s the stereotype of a person guided by his erotic, aesthetic, consumer and emotional desires, and that crosses social conventions regarding gender roles.

Face and body care is no longer a women’s thing.

Men also like to take care of their skin and pamper it. They are an integral part of the cosmetics market and have no qualms about requesting tips and advice about the right products for their type of skin and hair. El hombre Latino does not stay behind in this category, they have incredible looks and gorgeous hair (the calbito Latino can be a Metro-sexual too, this look is still in and lends a heaping dose of the Machismo rough look).

More and more men are concerned about their skin and looks. They spend more time before the mirror, at trendy stores, taking note of photos and ads from

highly regarded brands in magazines. All of these men are very appearance-conscious, and some of the full-fledged Metro-sexual men get manicures, pedicures, facials, even highlights; they wear designer clothing, go shopping at Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and have the most absolute gorgeously decorated apartments (and they did it themselves!) and read magazines about fashion, design, car, boating, technical gadgetry, wine and gourmet cuisine, while the not so full-fledged Metro-sexual draws the line just shy of the manicure and highlights, hence, the machismo in them.

Well, kudos to both the full and not-so-full fledged Metro-Sexual Latino Man (“MSLM”)!

My personal opinion as a mujer Latina, I love a man who takes pride in taking care of himself, his appearance, how he smells, how he dresses, wearing attractive bling, maintaining well-groomed hands and feet; I wouldn’t mind if there was a Metro-Sexual Latino Man in the pedicure chair next to mine at Hung Lo Nails and Spa… I would, however, like to see this MSLM dispense an aura of “machismo” through his personality. In other words, I don’t want just a pretty boy with none of the ruggedness; I still need your testosterone to shine through Papi, can you handle that?

Meet Carla Fairchild

A local Latina that recently launched her own business!

Bon Chic was started in December of 2005. Carla has many years of experience in the fashion industry, selling, buying and managing high end boutiques and fashion shows. Carla’s business Bon Chic offers a variety of custom T-shirts. To create her unique designs Carla uses swarwoski crystals, rhinestones, rhinestuds, nailheads, silk screen, embroidery and heat transfers.

This chica knows fashion!

Some critics have stated that this new trend is a way for the man to get more in touch with the feminine side and not only a matter of looks. I am totally against this statement. Why would caring about your appearance and grooming be considered solely a feminine trait? I think the critics that entertained this statement are puercos that need to groom more often!

So, my MSLM, groom on, shop on, bling on, put in on, just don’t forget to testoster-ON! Show them what you’re fine self is working with!

– Marti Lopez

Our own Marti Lopez, with an insatiable taste for fashion and design, has created a logo and design for a clothing line specific to the likes of the reggetón genre. “This music is here to stay. Period. Just like hip-hop, it will continue to evolve and branch out in different arenas of music as the specific reggetón beat is fused with various types of music. Right now, in Puerto Rico, the D.R., Panama and in the States, this is the music of our 15 to 30’ish generation. What are some of the styles these sandungueros wear?

Pretty much the same thing that the hip-hoppers wear. So, I have taken that style of clothing and am giving it the Latin flavor it calls for, to set it apart and say, ‘yeah, I am into Reggetón.’ I have always geared my creative juices toward my Latin roots, and this is just one more way I cater to the interests and appeals of my Latinos.” Marti’s clothing line is Reggetón-Nation787 and Underground Edition787. Look for the debut of her clothing line this August! Marti was approached by an upcoming reggetón duo who wanted to perform wearing her logo. Here are some pics from that event at JJ

To learn more about Carla and her line, please visit her website at: www.BonChicTees.com or call her at (813) 909-2633

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5/12/06 10:16:17 AM

A New Clothing line empowering “the elite latino” • www.siemprepalante.com

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5/12/06 10:16:40 AM

CalleSocial

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1st Yr Anniversary

1st Friday Latin ConneXions

• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

5/12/06 10:16:48 AM

1st Friday Latin ConneXions

Business Networking Socials by

Exhibitors!

CalleSocial

Over 250 Business Professionals!

Complimentary Buffet & LIVE Entertainment!

1st. Fridays are 4 Networking in Tampa!

Networking Opportunities!

Reeves Import Motorcars – Henry Rivera

The 1st. 2 hours of these events are a business card exchange. Latin ConneXions offers you a unique opportunity to meet, and greet other local business professionals. 1st. Friday guests include Entrepreneurs, Small Business Owners, Corporate professionals, Doctors, Attorneys, Real Estate Professionals, and MORE! Take advantage of this opportunity to meet your next potential client, business associate or friend! If you are interested in participating as an exhibitor at the next Latin ConneXions Business Networking Social, contact our office at: (813) 901-5292.

Coming to Orlando soon!!!!

Susana Perdomo

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Food Sponsors!

Thank you to our wonderful food sponsors!

(1) Isela Perez of Sweet Delights, contact her (813) 925-3426 (2) Daisy Medina of Helping the Community Salon Bella of Tampa

(3) Brocato’s Sandwich Shop – 5021 E. Columbus Dr in Tampa.

With Exciting Performances By: (4) Luis Shaniel – Wow, what a set of lungs! Luis amazed people by performing several songs.

(5) Local Dance Performer Group

Avon Cosmetics

Able Mortgage

(6) Clara Salsa performed at the anniversary of 1st. Friday Latin ConneXions! The event was a complete success, with a FULL HOUSE and lots of excitement in the air. Orquesta Clara Salsa, an exciting local 13 piece Salsa Band, lead by Jorge Laureano of Daynomar Productions, thrilled ConneXion guests with an hour-long performance that was full of exciting salsa originals written by Mr. Laureano himself! If you missed their performance you can also check them out @ DaynomarProductions.com 5 6

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Helping The Community

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HYPE – Hispanic Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs 1st. Fridays R 4 Networking Socials! • May/June 06 •

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BochincheBlvd The Krewe of Alegria painted the home of Felici Matos-Checo’s on Saturday April 22 for the annual “Paint Your Heart Out Tampa Bay”. The project started at 8am and by 3 pm, the home was painted! Mrs. Matos-Checo is an elderly Latin woman that lives in Tampa, Florida.

About the Krewe!

St. The Krewe of Alegria believes in giving back to our community. “We are an all female Krewe and we are celebrating our 20th anniversary this year!” The name Alegria for this Krewe because it is the Latin word for Happiness and Joy, which is what the Krewe of Alegria was looking to bring to Mrs. Matos-Checo when they Painted her house on April 22nd, 2006!

To find out more about Alegria, please feel free to call (813) 732-3610 or visit them at kreweofalegria.com

Don’t forget to check out 1st. Friday Latin ConneXions on Friday, June 2nd Y Friday, July 7th, 2006!!!!

Christina Milian New Album Release!

At twenty-four, stunning songstress Christina Milian understands all too well what it takes to be a star. “When it came time for me to work on my third album, SO AMAZIN’, I knew that I needed to record material that had a realness,” explains Christina. “I still wanted to make dance tracks, but I also needed to express more of myself at the same time.” Using the blueprint of rhythmic icons Janet Jackson and the late Aaliyah, the singer/songwriter decided that the first step towards musical difference would be finding a team of producers who could musically transfer her inner feelings into outer hotness.

It was during this period that Christina first met Cool & Dre. Having appeared in such popular films as Be Cool (alongside John Travolta, Uma Thurman and Steven Tyler), Love Don’t Cost A Thing

and Man Of The House (with Tommy Lee Jones), the young star also has a leading role in the upcoming movie Pulse (out July 14th).

After filming, she took a break away from the camera for the months it took her to finish SO AMAZIN’. “I was so committed to this project, making it my number one priority,” Christina recalls. “It was important that I be focused on music, so while I was working I passed on other films and reading scripts. It was more important that I make a hot album.”

Without a doubt, she has succeeded.

Concierto Cristiano para la comunidad!

April 7 de 2006 @ Iglesia de Dios Palabra de Vida en St. Petersburg, FL. Para mas informe o calendario de eventos, por favor de llamar al (727) 546-5269 WHO’s NEW! Arcely Reyes Was born march 13 @ 1:27 pm St Joseph Women’s Hospital 6.8oz 18inchs long Proud Parents: Maria y Eddie Reyes

Join us at Latin ConneXions Business Networking Socials @ Mirage – 3605 W. Hillsborough Ave in Tampa, Fl. These are the biggest and most exciting Latin Business Networking Events in Tampa Bay! Bring plenty of business cards and your dancing shoes. Exhibit space available. Free parking, Complimentary Buffet, and giveaways!

Time: 5:45 PM – 9:30 PM. Info: (813) 901-5292 or visit: Latin-Connections.com

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• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

5/12/06 10:18:19 AM

BochincheBlvd Latin Times checks out Jamie Foxx’s Grammy Party!

In Review: Big Apple Lovers!

Vintage New York Captured in Shadow

MTV Español Plans to Launch MTV TR3S MTV is launching a new bilingual network called MTV TR3S (pronounced tres) targeting the 12 to 34-year-old U.S. Latino market with pop, urban and rock music programming. The network will also offer lifestyle programming and news documentaries focusing on U.S. Latinos. The bilingual network plans to launch later this year with the goal of being in 50% of Hispanic households.

– Rosa Mercado. Source: Advertising Age online

Opens in Tampa, FL: Tampa Theatre 5/26/2006 San Diego, CA: Hillcrest Cinemas University City, MO: Tivoli Theatre Dallas, TX: Inwood Theatre

4/28/2006 Aventura, FL: Aventura Mall 24 Theatres Miami, FL: Dolphin Cinema 19 Miami, FL: LeJeune Cinemas VI Miami Beach, FL: South Beach 18

Photographer, Coe Arthur Younger depicts the essence of New York City in the 1970’s and 1980’s through a series of abstract lenses - admittedly his own struggling eyesight, his unusual appreciation of architecture, and his intimate relationship with the Big Apple.

For display information call 727-820-9598.

Miami Lakes, FL: Miami Lakes 17 South Miami, FL: Sunset Place 24 Theatres For more information go to: www.magpictures.com

The Writer (Bill Murray) reads a bit of poorly written propaganda aloud in Andy Garcia’s film The Lost City. The Writer’s character is based on celebrated Cuban writer G. Cabrera Infante, who wrote the screenplay for the film.

Producer/ Director/Actor Andy Garcia stars as Fico Fellove in his frist feature film as a director. The owner of “El Tropico” Havana’s number one nightspot.

Fico is a principled man trying to hold his family together in the midst of a revolution.

1st. Fridays R 4 Networking Socials! • May/June 06 •

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CruisinLaCalle Puerto Rico Cultural Parade The 18th Annual Puerto Rican Parade and Festivities continues to be one of Florida’s most impressive events. This year’s events were a HUGE success!!!!!! Hosting well over 50,000 people, the event was held in Tampa Bay’s historic Ybor City. Latin Times staff was present and accounted for, as Jolie Gonzalez, publisher of Latin Times Magazine received the Hispanic Business Woman of The Year Award! The Puerto Rican Cultural Parade of Florida, headed by Sandra Acevedo y Wanda Santiago does an outstanding job in putting this event together –despite the many obstacles that seemed to stand in their way! Congratulations on another job VERY well done!!!!

Have you checked out Roberto’s Salsa Club in Clearwater!?

Roberto’s is for the SERIOUS Salsa dancer that wants to dance all night long! This is a BYOB (Bring your own bottle!) place that plays some really good dancing Salsa! Great for late, late nights, Roberto’s is open on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 8 PM to 6 AM. Roberto’s is located at: 14100 US 19N – Suite 124 in Clearwater. For Info: (727) 480-4800 or visit: RobertosSalsaClub.com

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Tampa Bay Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Networking @ Univision!

Latin Times Magazine hangs out at Storman’s fabulous Latin Saturday Nights!

• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

5/12/06 10:18:40 AM

CruisinLaCalle What is all the HYPE about?

HYPE (HISPANIC YOUNG PROFESSIONALS & ENTREPRENEURS, INC.), is a registered Florida non profit organization, comprised of talented, energetic, young Hispanic professionals that are committed to recruit and retain its membership, offer professional development, community outreach opportunities and social/networking activities. HYPE’s mission statement is to: “To fuse Hispanic / Latino young professionals amongst each other and integrate them within the community”. HYPE will serve the needs of the Tampa Bay Hispanic community by focusing on important issues such as education. HYPE is also committed to establishing strategic partnerships with other community based organizations to support and promote each other’s events, programming and community service. How do you join the HYPE? You have to be 21 years and older, membership is opened to Hispanics and non Hispanics alike and our members are expected to contribute their energy, knowledge and time to further the mission statement and vision of HYPE. HYPE is comprised of a Board of Directors, two overall HYPE Co-Chairs, four committees with two respective Co-Chairs and an Honorary Advisory Board.

The Power of Salsapower 6 years ago Jacira Castro, together with graphics designer Julián Mejía founded Salsa power.com it has since grown to include 300 Local Correspondents in 60 countries!

Honorary Advisory Board: Judge EJ Salcines (Florida’s 2nd District Court of Appeal) Leonardo Leon (Journalist, La Gaceta) Board of Directors: Gilberto “Gil” Sanchez, HYPE Co-Chair (Corporate Attorney, Maney & Gordon, P.A.) Maria Elena Elisalde, HYPE Co-Chair (Employment: Assistant Vice President, Commercial Banking, SunTrust Bank) Aida Ramirez, Secretary (Financial Planner, Mass Mutual ) Robin Gomez , Treasurer (City of Clearwater Auditor, City of Clearwater) Gonzalo Perez-Verdia, Co-Chair of Professional Development (Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch) Juana Morales, Co-Chair of Professional Development (Engineer - Manager, Verizon) Mario Diaz, Co-Chair of Community Outreach, (Anchor, Channel 10) James Lascano, Co-Chair of Community Outreach (Manager, Verizon) Ray Wong, Co-Chair of Membership/PR (Architecture, Gresham Smith & Partners) Jolie Gonzalez, Co-Chair of Membership/PR (Publisher and Owner, Latin Times) Ana Morejon, Co-Chair of Social/Marketing (Mortgage Broker, Paragon Mortgage) Braulio Grajales, Co-Chair of Social/Marketing (Engineer, UBS)

Please visit us at: www.hypetampabay.org and remember to join the HYPE!

One of the most active is Judith Turner, Local Correspondent for Tampa-St. Pete. Judith has just launched the membership pilot project for SalsaPower. This program benefits all salseros!

A dancer purchases a membership card ($25/ year) and with this gets discounts at clubs and free classe(s) at participating schools. These venues are highlighted with a special symbol on the Tampa SalsaCity page.

SalsaPower has information on clubs, instructors and events around the world, as well as CD and concert reviews, exclusive artist interviews, editorials and much more! www.SalsaPower.com

Latin Times attends the (HYP) Hispanic Yellow Pages release of this year’s Tampa Bay Directory!

What a fabulous event!

The Best of Tampa Bay was held at The Tampa Bay performing Arts Center @ The Riverwalk on Saturday, March 25th, 2006.

Latin Times staff had the immense pleasure of being present at this years “The Best of Tampa Bay” event, which hosted over 1,700 people! What a delicious treat! This event featured the culinary delights of dozens of Tampa Bay’s Best Restaurants. An annual event, this event has become more and more successful each year. The Center raised about $75,000 in funds to benefit their programs.

If you missed this event this year, be sure and sign up to receive the monthly calendar of events the Center emails out on a monthly basis. For more information on upcoming events visit: TBPAC.org 1st. Fridays R 4 Networking Socials! • May/June 06 •

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EntertainmentGuide Anjali Restaurant - Tampa 8725 N. Himes Ave (813) 933-4403 Latin Nights; Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Green Iguana Bar & Grill – Tampa 9202 Anderson Rd (813) 288-9076 Latin Nights: Wednesday

Recuerdos Bar - Tampa 6416 North Florida Ave (813) 234-1267 * Latin Nights on Tuesdays thru Sundays @ 9:00 PM.

Black Beans Cuban Bar & Grill – Tampa 8218 Hanley Road (813) 884-2080 Latin Nights: Friday & Saturday

Hyde Park Café - Tampa 1806 W. Platt St Latin Nights on Thursday Nights @ 10:30 PM. Great looking club!

Recuerdos Bar II - Tampa 4347 West Waters Avenue, Tampa, FL (813) 887-3065 * Latin Nights on Tuesdays thru Sundays @ 9:00 PM.

Caliente Casino @ The Gulfport Casino Info: greg_richardson_01@hotmail.com Latin Nights; Thursdays - Gorgeous Location!

La Rumba Restaurant and Bar - Tampa 3409 W. Columbus Dr (813) 876-3191 * Latin Nights on Friday, Saturday and Sunday @ 10:00 PM.

Salsa Fridays at the Pier, downtown St. Petersburg (727) 515-1086 * Latin on Fridays @ 7:00 PM. No cover charge, Free dance class.

Club Mirage - Tampa 3605 W. Hillsborough Ave. (813) 673-8835 Home of 1st. Friday, Latin ConneXions Business Networking Socials. Latin Nights on Wednesdays & Fridays 9:00 PM. Gorgeous, upscale club. 5:45 PM- 10:00 PM. Free Parking, Complimentary Buffet, LIVE Entertainment!

Call: (813) 901-5292.

MaiTai 9210 Anderson Rd (Tampa, FL) (813) 598-4492 * Latin Nights on Thursday. Doors Open @ 9:00 PM. Vaya DJ.

Coco Bongo - Tampa 4235 Armenia Ave., Tampa (813) 873-7776 * Latin Nights on Fridays and Saturdays @ 9:00 PM. Don Leoncio - Downtown St. Petersburg 340 1st. Avenue North (727) 895-3402 * Upscale NY Style Cigar Lounge.

Live Music. Call for schedule

Salsa Saturdays @ Baywalk - St. Petersburg Info: greg_richardson_01@hotmail.com * Latin Night on Saturdays @ 7:00 PM/ Skye – Ybor City 1509 8th Ave (813) 247-6606 * Latin Night on Fridays @ 10:00 PM

Paracas Nightclub – Tampa 3602 N. Armenia Ave (813) 348-4806 * Friday Nights: Lots of Great Salsa!

Latin Format Thursdays –Sundays.

Storman’s Nightclub Ulmerton Road - Clearwater Latin on Saturdays.

Park Place - Clearwater 420 Park Place Blvd. (SR 60/Gulf to Bay and US 19) (727) 791-6114 * Latin Nights on Wednesday, 9:30 PM. Free salsa dance classes.

Studio Inc. - Tampa 3603 Waters Ave. (813) 935-5339 * Latin Nights on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays @ 9:00 PM. Velvet Room – Tampa 615 Channelside Dr (inside Margarita’s Mama) (813) 228-7300 Latin Nights: Friday @ 9:00 Pm, Very Nice!

Que Fantazma...DAVID OTERO: MUSIC DYNAMO David “Fantazma” Otero has been involved in the music industry since the age of 4! He is an accomplished musician, writer, producer and also a singer. David’s current projects include hosting a television show scheduled to air on Telemundo. David’s target market is today Latino youth. “I am trying to reach the young Latino, between the ages of 13 – 21. I feel this market is, in many cases, being ignored even though this is the fastest growing market in America.” David also feels that today’s youth is not being given la oportunidad to learn more about their cultural history. “These are the most impressionable years in a young person’s life – they can either get into trouble, or we can do our part to reach them on their level.”

Dj’s, airing music videos and interviews of today’s hottest artists. The show also features cultural news and provides historical facts in a fun way.

David’s accomplished career includes working con artists like; Ivy Queen, Wisin y Yandel, VicoC, Zion y Lennox, Grupo Mania, Eddie Santiago, Lito y Polaco, Brenda K. Starr, and many more!

David Otero, un Dynamo de la Musica!

For more info visit: www.Fantazmamusic.com, www.reggaetonPalMundo.tv “To help shape the youth of tomorrow we must act today” - Fantazma “David Otero”

David is currently looking for people and businesses willing to join him on this venture; the venture of providing a fresh alternative to today’s Latin youth. “The young Latino market is already beginning to explode and I am working hard to be a pioneer in shaping the structure of tomorrow’s consumers”. David’s show is called Reggaeton Pal’ Mundo (www. reggaetonPalMundo.tv), and it focuses on the urban arts, break dancing, graffiti, rap, and

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JVYLaFarandula JEAN = producer, singer-songwriter, uniquely talented and captivated by the music that has been a constant companion all his life.

From his early childhood, JEAN was surrounded by the energy, passion and love of music that his parents proudly infused in his creative development.

His father, a music collector with unlimited tastes, made sure an escape room existed in their home as refuge to retire and enjoy his precious treasures.

From salsa to Latin jazz, his tastes were vast and visionary. His mom, a singer as well, was a key component in the success of the renowned Puerto Rico choir, VIVA LA GENTE. Frequently, JEAN and his siblings performed the latest MENUDO tracks as the entire family proudly watched, including their trumpet-playing grandfather.

JEAN’S interest for R&B started early. By age 9 he was constantly singing the riffs to Stevie Wonder songs while riding his bike around his newly found neighborhood in Orlando, Florida. There, his addiction

to this genre was strongly impacted by artists like Boys 2Men, New Edition, Shai, Brian McKnight and Mint Collection. This type of music opened new windows and exploration of different types in the music field, yet he never forgot his Latin roots.

In school, JEAN was just as musically inclined and involved. As any true aspiring talent should be, from the choir, to the marching band where he played the trombone, to vocalizing, training and joining various a cappella vocal groups, his harmonies and uniqueness made him a recipient of immeasurable praise.

Following his dream, JEAN moved to Los Angeles, California (by this time, he had already composed several songs that led to the obvious recording of some demos) knocking on doors all leading him to the opportunity to perfect and develop his musical

skills. His experience in the West Coast had matured and developed his style, and he moves on to the Big Apple recognizing, that his time in Los Angeles was well-spent in defining, once more, his dream.

In New York, JEAN searched further as he soaked in the different cultures, their music and their customs. He performed at local clubs such as the Cutting Room, Village Underground and Joe’s Pub, among others, before deciding that MIAMI would be his next stepping-stone. There, he connects with his Latin roots and focuses on complementing his songwriting by singing and composing Spanish tracks. Miami afforded him the great opportunity to write a soundtrack, including the theme song for YU-GI-OH, and JEAN proceeds to write hit songs for Olga Tañon and Luis Fonsi among others.

Saludos a Edgar Joel!

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JVYLaFarandula El Exito del Concierto de Juan Gabriel en Tampa!

Sony Executives with JV

ClassicSalserosWordSearch S M Y P V E T U A J T A E F O S U D V J J U S S L V

V E B J G I R U D D A O F Q L T W F H M N P Y Y M Z

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T T Y E Z A A C J W I L L I E C O L O N J F E G B G

J Y H Q S O B J D X R U Z U B U E T N E U P O T I T

1. Ruben Blades 2. Grupo Niche 3. Sonora Ponceña 4. Frankie Ruiz 5. Tito Nieves 6. El Gran Combo 7. Tito Puente 8. Tony Vega 9. Victor Manuelle 10. Tito Rojas 11. Willy Chirino 12. Eddie Santiago 13. Willie Rosario 14. Willie Colon 15. Hector Lavoe 16. Andy Montañez

1st. Fridays R 4 Networking Socials! • May/June 06 •

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ActionAvenue Tuesday-Sunday, May 9-14, 2006 Mamma Mia @ Carol Morsani Hall (Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center). Tickets: $ 41.00-79.00. Info: (813)229-7827.

Check for different times.

Saturday, May 13, 2006 Beach Boys @ Vinoy Park, St Petersburg, FL. Time: 7:30pm. Tickets: $25.00 seated, $10.00 lawn. Info: www.ticketmaster.com Saturday, May 13, 2006 Freestyle Extravaganza Concert, Stevie B, Cover Girls, Lisette Menendez, Noel, Lisa Lisa, TKA, George Lamond, Coro, Nice & Wild, Judy Torres, Cynthia and Johnny O @ UCF Arena, 50 N Gemini Blvd, Orlando, FL. Info: (407)823-3900. Tickets: $49.00-95.00.

Friday, May 19July 16, 2006 Menopause The Musical @ Jaeb Theater (Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center).

Tickets: $38.50.

Info: (813)2297827.

Saturday, May 20, 2006 The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) announces its “Man and Woman of the Year” 2006. LULAC of Florida will honor LULAC’s Man and Woman of the Year at the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa in Safety Harbor as part of the awards

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ceremony during the LULAC State Convention.

The public is invited to attend the Gala Dinner to be held at the Safety Harbor Resort the Baranoft Theatre.

For information please call (813) 289-1130 or (727) 446-0272.

Sunday, May 21, 2006 Telemundo’s Feria de la Familia (Family Fair) @ Presented by CarePlus and the Florida Lottery @ A La Carte Event Pavillion. Admission and parking are free.

Live entertainment, ethnic food, children’s activities and multiple services available in Spanish will be made available to the community. Info: (813)3194949 ext: 238 Sunday, May 28, 2006 Monchy y Alexandra, Alexis y Fido, Lalo Rodriguez y Rey Perdonmo. An unbelievable concert of Bachata, Reaggaeton, Salsa & Merengue @ A La Carte Pavillion, 4050 Dana Shores Drive, Tampa, FL, 33634, Time: 8pm, Info: (813)508-3544.

Friday, June 2, 2006 1st Fridays Latin ConneXions – Business Networking Social. @Mirage – 3605 Hillsborough Avenue, (Tampa). Held on the 1st Friday of every month, this is the biggest, most exciting business networking social in Tampa Bay! Bring plenty of business cards and your dancing shoes. Free parking, complimentary buffet, giveaways and much more! Price: Free, Time: 5:45pm – 10:00pm. Info: (813)901-5292.

Friday, June 2, 2006 Tim McGraw and Faith Hill @ St Pete Times Forum, 401 Channelside, Tampa, FL, 33602. Time: 8:00pm.

Tickets:$41.75-86.75. Info: (813)301-6500., Saturday & Sunday, June 10 & 11, 2006 Caribbean Carnival @ Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg, FL. Info: (727)327-1277, www.tampacarnival.com

Tuesday, June 6-July-2, 2006

Chicago @ Carol Morsani Hall (Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center). Tickets: $30.50-66.50. Info: (813)229-7827.

Friday, July 7, 2006 1st Fridays Latin ConneXions – Business Networking Social. @Mirage – 3605 Hillsborough Avenue, (Tampa).

Held on the 1st Friday of every month, this is the biggest, most exciting business networking social in Tampa Bay! Bring plenty of business cards and your dancing shoes. Free parking, complimentary buffet, giveaways and much more! Price: Free, Time: 5:45pm – 10:00pm. Info: (813)901-5292.

Fundraiser in support of Karen Perez Thursday, May 25th 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM At Mirage – 3605 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa Please join us on this special evening in support of Karen Perez, Democratic Candidate Florida State Representative. There will be a complimentary buffet, Latin Jazz and a silent auction. All proceeds will go to the Karen Perez campaign.

R.S.V.P. To Attend: (813) 901-5292.

To Make A Donation: www.KarenPerez1Florida.com

• May/June 06 • Abraza El Calor De Tu Cultura!

5/12/06 10:19:51 AM

ActionAvenue Q&A with Leonardo Villanueva By Rosa Mercado Winning the Dove Award for Spanish Album of the Year was an honor Leonardo Villanueva had always dreamt of reaching.

The annual honor is given by The Gospel Music Association to the top Christian music artists in the nation. Villanueva took home the 2006 award for his self-titled CD “Leonardo.” We got a chance to chat with Villanueva – who resides in Tampa, about his faith, his recent win, and how it feels representing Latinos in the Christian music industry.

Latin Times: Where were you born & raised? How long have you lived in Tampa?

LV: “I WAS BORN IN ARECIBO, PUERTO RICO BUT WAS RAISED IN THE CAPITAL, SAN JUAN. MY MOTHER IS FROM CALI, COLOMBIA AND SO I AM ‘BORICUA/ COLOMBIANO’. WE MOVED TO TAMPA IN 1988, WHEN MY FATHER, WHO IS A PASTOR, GOT TRANSFERRED TO A CHURCH HERE IN TAMPA.” Latin Times: How does it feel to have just won the GMA Music Award for Spanish Album of the Year?

LV: “IT’S AN HONOR AND A GREAT PRIVILEGE TO HAVE BEEN RECOGNIZED

BY THE GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION WITH THIS NATIONAL AWARD IN THE ONLY CATEGORY WHERE LATINOS WHERE REPRESENTED. BEING AT THE GRAND OLE OPRY HOUSE IN NASHVILLE, IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE CHRISTIAN MUSIC INDUSTY COMMUNITY, GIVING AN ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FOR A DOVE AWARD (AS IT’S ALSO KNOWN), WAS A CHILDHOOD DREAM OF MINE! THIS BRINGS YOUR CAREER TO DIFFERENT LEVEL!” Latin Times: Is this your first album?

LV: “THIS IS THE FIRST “OFFICIAL” ONE UNDER A RECORD LABEL (LAMON RECORDS), WITH A NICE BUDGET, AND A LEGENDARY PRODUCER LIKE ISAAC HERNANDEZ.” Latin Times: Why did you choose to do Christian music? When did you start?

LV: “I CHOSE TO DO CHRISTIAN MUSIC BECAUSE I BELIEVE IN ITS MESSAGE. THESE SONGS CAN HELP BRING YOU CLOSER TO YOUR CREATOR AND GIVE YOU ETERNAL HOPE! A CHRISTIAN SONG ALWAYS HELPED ME - AND STILL DOES - IN DIFFICULT TIMES IN MY LIFE. IT GAVE ME HOPE, AND SO I WANT TO NOW EXTEND HOPE TO OTHERS THROUGH THIS MUSIC.”

Latin Times: What is your favorite musical style? Who are your musical influences?

LV: “I CONSIDER MYSELF A MUSICIAN AND SO IT IS MY JOB TO LISTEN AND BE FAMILIAR WITH VARIOUS STYLES OF MUSIC. I LIKE CLASSICAL, JAZZ, POP, LATIN POP, AND GOSPEL, AMONG OTHERS. MY MUSICAL INFLUENCES ARE CHICAGO, MICHAEL ENGLISH, MICHAEL W. SMITH, MARK SCHULTZ, LUIS MIGUEL, AND ENRIQUE IGLESIAS.” Latin Times: What (if any) challenges have you come up against, and overcome?

LV: “THE MUSIC INDUSTRY IS A ROUGH PLACE. THERE IS SO MUCH REJECTION THAT IF YOU DON’T HAVE A STRONG, HEALTHY MIND, YOU COULD CRUMBLE INTO PIECES. THANK GOD, HE’S GIVEN ME ONE OF THOSE MINDS, ALONG WITH A STUBBORN AND PERSISTENT PERSONALITY. OTHERWISE, I’D PROBABLY BE IN A MENTAL INSTITUTION BY NOW...

HA, HA!” Latin Times: What are your goals?

LV: “FIRST AND FOREMOST TO GLORIFY GOD IN EVERYTHING I DO AND TO PLEASE HIM THROUGH MY ACTIONS, AND TO BE A GOOD FATHER AND HUSBAND.

PROFESSIONALLY, I WANT TO CONTINUE MAKING GREAT MUSIC AND SHARE IT WITH AS MANY AROUND THE WORLD AS POSSIBLE.” Latin Times: Do you have a day job?

LV: “BESIDES SONGWRITING, RECORDING, PERFORMING AND TOURING, I ALSO TEACH MUSIC AT IDLEWILD BAPTIST CHURCH AND AT WEST TAMPA ELEMENTARY.” Latin Times: Tell us about your family - Is anyone else in your family musical?

LV: “I HAVE A 4-YEAR-OLD, BEATIFUL LITTLE GIRL NAMED MELODY WHO TAKES AFTER HER MOTHER, MY BEATIFUL WIFE DOREEN. MY DAD HAS A GREAT TENOR VOICE AND PLAYS A LITTLE BIT OF GUITAR. THAT’S HOW I LEARNED, BY WATCHING HIM AND THEN TRYING IT MYSELF.”

Mirage – 3605 W. Hillsborough Avenue in Tampa, FL

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