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Volume II - Issue 2 Reframing A Century Of Our History Fall - 1999
LATIN MUSIC AND THE LOWER EAST SIDE IN THE 1970s (William Millán)
Back then, it was not uncommon for a person to walk out of their tenement apartment and be treated to the live sounds of musicians like Ray Barreto, Joe Bataan, Típica '73, or even Eddie Palmieri performing on the Jazzmobile. I can recall one occasion in particular when I had the good fortune of witnessing Héctor Lavoe perform one of his block-party serenades to a couple of giggling young Pentecostal women who were taking in the sounds of the Willie Colón orchestra from their 3rd floor fire-escape balcony. Those were the days when you could see real joy in the people's faces as they shared in the celebration of that special community! Without a doubt, the rhythmic pulse of Loisaida was quite a tangible phenomena. Electricity flowed throughout that culturally rich neighborhood bringing together people of different backgrounds and ages. The memories I have of those extraordinary days are quite unique and always seem to bring back to mind my first real encounter with live latin music. I was still in my teens when I first saw the Eddie Palmieri Orchestra performing on the Jazzmobile truck. It was a hot summer's afternoon on East 6th Street (Avenue C) and I remember watching in awe as the band worked itself into a rocking frenzy during a sizzling performance of La Malanga. The hypnotic sway of the Jazzmobile stage created by the band's explosive energy had the listeners mesmerised. The crowd appeared to meld together, moving in rhythmic unison as Chocolate Armenteros soloed saliently above the band's orchestral spewings of vintage Palmierian contrapuntal swing. As the flatbed drove off, la gente jubilantly followed the ornate iron float like a trail of colorful smoke dissolving into a puff of magic dust. That extraordinary day felt like a utopian fantasy; there were no signs of misery, tension or poverty on Avenue C that afternoon, only an atmosphere of collective merriment. Loisaida's music and musicians were all part of the intricate encaje of the sur-este. That wondrous area was sprinkled with the talents of such distinctive artists as Ismael Miranda and Markolino Dimond (who could be heard practicing his Brujeria on East 13th street). A couple of doors down from Mark's place you could witness latin music history in the making as they filmed Orchestra Harlow performing their latest recording atop a concrete stoop for the movie "Our Latin Thing". Loisaida was also host to many spontaneous (and creative) sessions that took place in a variety of places such as store fronts, roof tops, street corners, church vestibules, park benches and dirt basements. Many of those informal get-togethers resulted in the creative works of such groups as Sublime, La Flamboyán, Conjunto Saoco, Frank Bello Y Su Charanga, Yambú, Tambó, Cimarrón, Sociedad '76 Ralphi Santi, and the René Gran Combo. During the 70s, Avenue D and 11th Street was also fast becoming una plaza de rumbones complete with weekly jam sessions and philosophical street-bench forums. On any given day you could catch some of the members of Sublime, Andy Harlow, Saoco or Los Kimbos jamming together in the plaza accompanied by the likes of Tato Laviera and Sammy Tanco on coro, cans and clave. Lamp posts provided electrical power for baby bass amplification as well as Ray Santiago's piano (which, incidentally, could be heard for blocks as well as from his mom's kitchen window). The neighborhood also had its own latin music center - the Third Street Music Settlement. Through the tireless efforts of a young musician by the name of Ramón Rodríguez (who at that time was both program administrator and director of Orchestra Yambú), the neighborhood was afforded its own learning center for latin music studies. The school, which employed instructors such as Louis Bauzo (Orchestra Tambó), Dave Chamberlain (Tambó), Johnny Almendra (Tambó), Ron Davis (Orchestra Cimarrón) and Milton Hamilton (Orchestra Yambú) produced a number of notable percussionists like Jaime Delgado, Eddie Montes, Pete Gómez and Rey Alcántara. Years later, the program was transformed into the Boys' Harbor Music School and moved into El Barrio. The weekly jam sessions had a great impact on many of the area's younger musicians because they brought together both aficionados and professionals in an informal performance setting. The younger players not only got a chance to listen and dialogue with the more seasoned musicians but were also afforded the opportunity to participate in the jams. More importantly, musicians shared information and resources at these sessions and often referred the younger players to the Settlement for formal music instruction as well as gigs. In time, the plaza jams gradually evolved into mini drum clinics that generated a substantial interest in latin music throughout the neighborhood. The sessions worked in conjunction with the music school in showcasing the music and promoting hispanic culture within Loisaida. Those unique forums had an undeniable and often indelible impact on many of the local youth. The place to be in Loisaida on Sunday afternoons was at the bank of the East River on South Street (under the FDR drive). That was where informal summer week-end fairs took place providing local residents with a taste of Guavate and its alcapurrias, fri-itas and live music. There, one could go to relax, converse, dance, play dominoes or just reminisce to the melodic rhythms of the legendary tresista/composer Mario Hernández and his sonorous "vente tú". Club hopping was another popular activity during that period in Loisaida. One could catch El Conjunto Saoco at the Lismar Lounge then easily walk over to the Godfather II Club, the Chaphouse or Del Monte to listen to the sounds of bands like Típica New York, Cimarrón (with Rafael DeJesús) or Pipo Vélez' Quinteto Del Monte. On East 14th street, you could experience the swing of the Eddie Palmieri Orchestra at La Mancha or Tito Puente at Casino 14 (which ironically was located in the same spot where the new Virgin Records Megastore that sells those very artists' recordings now stands). Casa Galicia, which was another popular night spot located on East 11th street, catered to an older crowd and featured such popular orchestras as the René Gran Combo. During that same period, the New Rican Village club (Nuyorican Poets Cafe) opened on Avenue A (between 6th and 7th Street) and began sponsoring musicians like the González brothers of Conjunto Libre. Featured artists at the club included performers like Miguel Algarín and the late Eddie Figueroa. "El Coco que habla" was another popular fixture on the street of Loisaida, often reciting his poetic verses at sidewalk forums. Around that same period, Bimbo Rivas could be found hopping from forum to jams with his compatriota - Angel, el trombonista/conguero, as he spread his philosophical tidbits and humor. Loisaida also had its own quintessential plenero during that era El Amable Gigante, who was seldom seen in the neighborhood without his pandereta in hand as he played and sang his enchanting jíbaro songs. And then there was Chino Campos, who painted neighborhood murals when he was not sculpting cork or playing his flurried conga solos in Tompkins Square Park. Artists like Henry Fiol also contributed to the tenement canvas with his paint brushes when he wasn't honing his guaguanco in street jams or promoting his "art on drums". The vibrancy of that culturally rich neighborhood could be felt and heard all over. On any given day, you could walk down one of those short avenues and catch the rhythm section of the late Frank Malabé, Nicky Marrero and Reynaldo Alcántara rehearsing for a session or hear Luisito Ayala soloing on gazoo to the incendiary Mayarí in a jammed-packed storefront social club. Second Avenue resonated with by the thunderous sounds of the late Eddie Colón's trap set (who alternated his work schedule with acts like Larry Harlow, Nona Hendrix and Al DiMeola). A few block over, Flamboyán leader Frankie Dante could also be seen discussing his latest project with Markolino on First Avenue while Johnny Pacheco was in the middle of filming the movie Our Latin Thing in an East 6th street lot (just a few doors down from the legendary Godfather II movie set). For many, music on the Lower East Side of Manhattan was a God-send; it was an antidote to the harsh reality of low wages, overcrowded tenements and the cultural oppression that existed. Music elevated the spirit of the neighborhood by bringing the arts to people who otherwise had little access to them and shifted the focus away from the burdens of a sometimes rote existence. Its engaging power brought those people together and fostered a sense of pride and solidarity in a neighborhood that was experiencing immense growing pains. The power emanating from that creative period was so intense that it radiated beyond the perimeters of Loisaida and the decade of the 1970s, reaching the most exotic corners of the globe and making its own place in latin music history through its recorded legacy. Three decades later, el espíritu de Loisaida continues to live on in those old recordings and serves as a reminder to us all of what can be accomplished when people get together to nurture and support each other. REV1
REV 1 - Latin Music and the Lower East Side in the 1970s REV 2 - From the Lower East Side to Legends Field REV 3 - ONE DAY TRIP to LES VILLage REV 5 - Homenaje a el Cantor de la Montaña REV 6 - Roberto Walker Clemente REV 10 - Recordando a mi Abuelita... REV 11 - Chronological Listing of the Native Born Governors of Puerto Rico REV 12 - My Life In Real Estate REV 13 - I Am The Nouveau Riche REV 14 - Growing Up In The Lower East Side Of Manhattan REV 15 - So You Want To Go To Law School... REV 16 - On A Personal Note... REV 17 - Doña Mileena's Pasteles
FROM THE LOWER EAST SIDE TO LEGENDS FIELD (Pard H. Chan)
Of the many memories I have of growing up on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, my favorite ones recall the lazy, hazy days of summer spent in pursuit of playing ball. Whether it was wiffle ball, punch ball, off the barrel, off the bench, off the wall, off the point or stickball, it seemed I just couldn't get enough . I would play from sunup to sundown, if permitted, with periodic times of eating (I virtually inhaled my food!) just to refuel. I remember having to suspend a one on one game of off the bench with my best buddy Pete Cordero due to darkness.We resumed play the next day and I was the eventual victor in that 56 inning marathon! We took our "off the bench" games seriously in those days. We even had matching uniform T-shirts with numbers on the back. My team was made up of Joe Povlosky, Michael Podlofsky, Willie Marrero and myself. Mike was the middle fielder, I played first base, Willie and Joe were our outfielders. Our perennial opposition was a team of neighbors Ralph, Bobby, Berto and Georgie. A typical Saturday morning found us at Rosie's candy store looking for the best Spalding rubber ball available (the bouncier the better). After choosing one we headed to our field which was the asphalt between 108 and 118 Avenue D. It was a perfect field for our game. The trees and other obstacles just happened to be at just the right spots to mark off the fair and foul areas. The size was just right for four players and the distance to the fence for a home run was neither too easy nor too difficult. The only drawback was that we had frequent interruptions due to pedestrian traffic. After the game we would review our statistics, usually over some soda and chips . Michael, who we considered our 'smartest' player would tell us our batting average, hits, HRs , etc. Occasionally our "team" would travel to the Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. I clearly remember the first glimpse of green I got from the elevated platform of the #4 train. It looked so beautiful it took my breath away. I had never seen such a perfect field. I had played on the sandlot fields in the East River Park but they could not compare to the beauty of the Yankee Stadium diamond. It would be the fulfillment of a dream to play on such a field. This January 1999 I fulfilled that dream. I traveled to the Yankees spring training facility in Tampa, Florida and played at their Legends Field. If you look around quickly and disregard the palm trees you would think you are in the Bronx. The seats are the same, the distinctive facade is the same, the field dimensions are the same. You would think you are in Yankee Stadium. The public address system announces "NOW BATTING, PLAYING SECOND BASE, PARD CHAN". On the scoreboard in center field I can see my picture as I walk up to the plate. I can't let that distract me. lt's my turn to bat and I'm up against one of the Yankees most feared relievers of all time, Goose Gossage. He has already struck out four of the first five batters. STRIKE! yells the umpire as I look at the ball whizzing by. My heart is now beating rapidly as the adrenaline kicks in. My eyes focus sharply on Goose's hand as he starts the windup and I coil into my launch position ready for the next pitch. Here it comes.... CRACK!!! I hit it hard but got on top of it just a little bit. As the shortstop fields it, I know I'11 be out at first, but it was a victory just to hit it. That was just one highlight of my week at Yankee Fantasy Camp. It was good to spend some time getting to know some of the former Yankee players: Graig Nettles, Bobby Richardson, Tommy John, Rick Cerone, Paul Blair, Mickey Rivers, Roy White, Gene Michael, Joe Pepitone, Clete Boyer, Johnny Blanchard, Bobby Murcer, Oscar Gamble, Elliot Maddox, Whitey Ford, Jim Spencer, Mike Torrez, Héctor López, Rich Monteleone, Tom Tresh and of course the Goose. There were special appearances and autograph sessions by present players Derek Jeter and Tino Martínez as well. It was a memorable week spent as an adult playing a youth's game. Some kids just never grow up! REV2
ONE DAY TRIP TO LES VILLAGE (William Millán)
From afar, you witness a practised hand working a stranger's pocket while a pubescent love scene unravels right before your very eyes - all within the same frame of vision? Ah! The blissful innocence of puppy love flourishing amidst the shrubbery of that unique concrete jungle. After dismounting the genuflecting bus, I walk past a kaleidoscopically lit Tibetan shop replete with brilliantly stimulating mandalas that cohabitates two doors down in that Eden of Rock with a bombastically colorful neon-draped liquor store. I continue my journey up two blocks and find myself in front of the central building of that infamous neighborhood's beatified artery, world known for its' artistic fertility. At first glance, the building appears to resemble a bee swamped honey comb buzzing with danger. As I cross the street to my destination, the atmosphere is filled with crashing cymbals, the sound of distorted steel and deep bass rumblings. A couple of suits, awaiting their weekly haircuts, negotiate a sidewalk deal for a new - "super hot" - european bike. I too am awaiting my haircut as I hear their deal fall through because "$160 does not equal $250" and "K-Mart up the block has new bikes for $99" (sans the clipped chain, of course!). Oh well, no deal . "Next!" calls out the barber. The haircutting assembly line is at full throttle. Buzz cuts, razor cuts, talks of arms cuts, budget cuts, tatoo cuts, you name it - fills the room of that nine passengered railroad flat from Bulgary. Voices are stacked up on Posts that cover the News of the Times while sneaker clad patrons watch a telecast of the Jacksons' story as they await their turn. Some look out the giant picturesque storefront window to take in the real show while others count the holes in their cordovan wing tips; still, others just count the cracks in the ceiling. My turn was called and as the barber brushed off my shoulders, I realized that my village journey had just about come to an end...until the next experience?:) REV3
TESORO RECHAZADO (Helen Arana)
Una de las herencias mas bonitas e importantes
que les dejamos a los hijos es nuestro idioma. Sin embargo, nuestros hijos,
criados en este país, parecen rechazar este legado.
Homenaje A El Cantor De La Montaña
Ramito
Don
Flor Morales Ramos (better known as 'Ramito -
El Cantor de la Montaña') was born on September 5th, 1915 in the town of Caguas-
Roberto Walker Clemente
Plaque commemorating the induction of Roberto Clemente into Baseball 's Hall of Fame at Cooperstown, New York REV6
REV
READERS' CHOICE:
La Cultura de Puerto Rico
* Mark, Luke & John
THE DOMINO EFFECT
(José O.
González)
As youngsters we all recall juxtaposing Domino
pieces inches apart in a straight line or a finite curve, depending on the
number of blocks available, then being fascinated by the ripple effect created
as we tapped the first piece to begin a continuous fall. These small rectangular
pieces of wood or ivory, each identified by a number of dots (or pips)
on their face, are commonly referred to as bones.
But, one activity they will surely observe on
their way to the Old San Juan shops are the various games of Dominoes taking
place. No, not at the Hiram Bithorn or the Roberto Clemente Coliseum; these
venues are reserved for the Winter Baseball League and Jazz & Salsa Concerts.
Instead, they will eventually reach Plaza Hostos where they will not
see any professional salaried players as members of an organized league but
catch the all engrosing domino marathons!
Dominoes are a people's game mostly played by
elderly and middle aged men; although, I recently witnessed some younger
men curiously standing by and participating. These games take on a life of
their own through the heated arguments and name calling that always seems
to ensue. Intense concentration and of course, the ever present banter between
the players is a mainstay. Tourist stand by to enjoy the frenzied exchanges,
scorekeeping, zestful arguments and that hard banging of domino pieces on
the play table that adds fire to the event. The old men prefer to call it
a sport and I tend to agree because competition, concentration and
emotional & physical pain, like any sport, gives it validity to be so
called.
They were extremely kind and gave me their permission
and blessings. As I took my shots, I was fascinated more by the men who played
the game than by the game itself. I enjoyed witnessing those wise men playing
that age-old game with such honest enthusiasm. They laughed at each others
banter and diligently kept an accurate scoresheet. I noticed that the domino
pieces were not created from the finest ivory, but, of fine wood and the
scent of fresh fruit from the nearby vendors was ever-present As the game
progressed, the "piragüeros'' and souvenir vendors looked on as I took
more shots. I finally followed the tourists to Old San Juan for that cold
rum & coke.
Recordando a mi abuelita...
A caballo regalado no se le mira el
colmillo.
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Es el mismo jíbaro en diferente
caballo.
*
Éramos muchos y parió la
abuela.
*
El único amigo es un peso en el
bolsillo.
*
Arbol que nace dobla'o, jamás su tronco
endereza.
*
Esos son gustos que merecen palos.
*
Está mas jala'o que un timbre de
guagua.
*
Con la boca es un mamey.
*
Es mas maceta que una macana de
guardia.
*
Está mas cerrado que un tubo de
radio.
*
Es mas largo que la esperanza de un
pobre.
*
Más vale poco y bien ganado que mucho y
enlodado.
*
Haz bien sin mirar a quién.
REV10
A CHRONOLOGICAL LISTING OF THE NATIVE BORN GOVERNORS OF PUERTO
RICO
1947 - Elective Governor
Act
1948 - Luis Muñoz Marín (First Puerto
Rican born Governor-Partido Popular Democrático)
1964 - Roberto Sánchez Vilella
(PPD)
1968 - Luis Ferré (Partido Nuevo
Progresista)
1972 - Rafael Hernández Colón
(PPD)
1976 - Carlos Romero Barceló (four
terms)
1992 - Pedro Roselló (two terms &
incumbent)REV11
MY LIFE IN REAL ESTATE
For as long as I can remember, I've always been involved in some form of sales. I began working at a very early age selling clothing and sneakers in local stores on Orchard Street in Manhattan's Lower East Side. They tell me that I was a very out-going and energetic as a child and working in those of stores helped develop my people skills. Little did I know that was going to be my biggest asset in the world of real estate. I was born and raised in the Lower East Side and frequented the local businesses. One night, as I was eating at my favorite spanish restaurant on Avenue D, I came across an old school friend. I asked him how he was doing and he told me that he was a real estate agent and doing very well. He told me that he was driving a Mercedes Benz and had just bought a house in New Jersey! This was the same guy I went to Seward Park High School with! He was doing great and I still didn't know what to do with myself so, I asked him what it took to get started. He went on to explain that becoming a broker involved simply enrolling in a 40-Hour course and passing a 100-question New York State Real Estate Licensing Exam. That night I couldn't sleep thinking about my future. I was never cut out for the 9 to 5 job, nor the typical NYC jobs. In my heart, I knew I had to be my own boss! I could have paid for the 40-hour course and taken the State exam but, I first wanted to get a degree under my belt. So in 1989, at the age of 21, I decided to enroll at the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) located in Tribeca. In 1991, I graduated with an Associates Degree in Business Management with a minor in Real Estate. The BMCC real estate program covered both the required salesperson & broker's qualification courses. After graduating, I immediately went to the state building on downtown Broadway and took the licensing exam. To my pleasant surprise, I passed the exam with a 98 and was well on my way to becoming a certified Independent Contractor. My next step was to secure a job as a broker; so one Sunday afternoon, I bought the paper and answered several want ads. I found that most of the listings offered training for the position of real estate broker without asking for previous experience. I found the first interview I went to was very laid back. The broker asked me a couple of questions and told me that he could see $$$ in my eyes so he hired me on the spot! That first year was basically a learning experience. However, every year after that was an earning $$$$ experience. I quickly learned that the average agent made between $2,500 to $5,500 per month! As with any profession, brokering has its Pro's & Con's in, so here they are: The Pro's 1. You are in partnership with the owners without incurring the office expenses. 2. You are your own boss. 3. You have very flexible hours (as long as you produce). 4. There are great tax benefits! 5. There is a 50/50 split on all commissions! 6. There is no limit on income potential. The Con's 1. It's a commission-based business. 2. There will be times when you go 2 to 3 weeks without making any money (so always have some cash saved for your basic living expenses). 3. You're responsible for paying your own taxes (so don't spend all of your earnings at once). 4. There are no health or retirement benefits (invest in your own health plan). I consider my 8 year career in real estate a blessing because it has both enriched and fulfilled my family's life. Not only have I have been able to increase my commissions to 60% but I have also assumed the responsibility of managing a rental division of 8 agents. I've also had the opportunity to participate in interviews with the New York Times, The Post as well as several magazines and have done business with many top celebrities in the area of sales and management. Currently I'm in partnership with The Halstead Property Company located at 784 Broadway in the West Village. One fact I find surprising is that there are so few Hispanic people in this field. It shocks me because, as I grew up, there were so many young men and women like myself who could qualify for this opportunity. Hispanics have a wide range of abilities at their disposal that should be tapped into. Those who are entrepreneurial can make a great living for themselves in this booming profession. If anyone is interested in a real estate career, I'd be more then happy to share some direction. Please contact me by E-mail at diamondexec@earthlink.net REV12
I Am The Nouveau Riche
I am the Nouveau Riche
Guided by the teachings of St. Brigid and San
Lorenzo
Guarded by the spirits of St. Mark and Santa
Barbara
Able to communicate in English, Spanish and
Spanglish
With a fundamental understanding of Ebonics and
a sprinkling of world tongues,
Able to feel the spirit of the
tambores as well as the sentiment of Itzhak's soul piercing
strings
Impacted by the power of Queen Aretha and the
incessant drive of the Godfather
Touched by the sound of Galway flurries while
engrossed in the study of a Ramito décima.
Introduced to Motown by Tyrone and Moe's son Larry
from the corner deli
I learned to carve out rock and plenas from an
elderly Polish mandolin player
And moved through I Want To Hold Your Hand
and Reach Out
To Soul Sacrifice then
Obsesión
I 've pondered our progress from Billie's
Strange Fruit to Eddie's La
Libertad-Lógico?
Heard aguinaldos resonate against the sound of
old pipe organs
And sung When Iris Eyes Are Smiling in
an overturned wooden ship
Where I played Easy To Be Hard and Get
Together between choruses Kyrie and
Resurrection
I am the embodiment of the nouveau
riche
I am...
I am the nouveau riche
Conceived on an isle of limestone and born out
of a transplanted passion from Boriquén
Red blooded, white bred with blues at heart and
undeniable Antillean mores,
I was born on the sacred ground of the Manhattes
at the point called beautiful view
Watched the sunrise from the bank of the East
River and canoed its' central lake
I've recanted Dutch history while riding bike
'round Stuyvesant Town
And studied General Robert E. Lee with the Lees
in the back room of their laundry.
I evolved from a timid confusion into an awareness
of urban jíbaro pride
As I was raised in a Lower East Side tenement
and finished on
the upper west side.
I traveled the world within the confines of the
island
As I witnessed pushcart commerce grow into the
birth of the Blues Project(s)
Traded in alpacas and sharkskins for old denim
and guayaberas,
We dined on pasteles, pirogies, pastrami, pizza,
grits and pork lo mein
Frequented the neighboring villages of Chinatown,
Williamsburg, Harlem and El Barrio
I 've soul searched for some answers from the
"D" on to Collores
As I lived and breathed LES colors throughout
the changing of the seasons
And savored all their splendor - making me a grateful
islander.
I am the Nouveau Riche who has been culturally
blessed
And I'm honored by the fact
that
I am...a
Nuyorican
(WAM)
REV13
GROWING UP IN THE LOWER EAST SIDE OF MANHATTAN
(John Cancel)
At a time when my life seemed to focus around playing "stoop" or "Wally-Wally", I really didn't give much thought to the area of New York City that I was growing up in. In fact, my parents made it a point to keep us within our "barrio" as they were raised back in Puerto Rico. Home was a five-block radius and not much more! Of course, that was until they bought me a ten-speed bicycle for my eighth grade graduation! (Big mistake) It was at that point that I began my real exploration of the Lower East Side (which stretched from the Smith Projects-where I grew up-to Alphabet City). As I mentioned before, the area known as the Smith Projects was my barrio. I remember looking out of my window and seeing a wide variety of people walking around. Although my parents were raising me a jibarito, everyone in our neighborhood seemed to have a different look! But as soon as I began attending grade school, it became obvious to me that: 1) I was not the only Boricua on the planet, and 2) Boricuas were not the only people in the Lower East Side. This fascinated me immensely because I loved the diversity. Of course, my childhood was influenced by the 1970's television idealism that portrayed America as being the "Melting Pot" or "Sopita" of the world. To me, the Lower East Side was my own personal sopita and I felt my innate Puerto Ricanness helped to spice it up! However, that idealistic view of mi barrio was often challenged whenever I returned to the land my parents called home: Borinquen. My arrival would always be greeted by the jovial gang of primos, tías, tíos and abuelos that made up my extended family. It was just as exciting, I must admit, as it was frustrating. But primarily, it was great to be around people whom I considered "family." In fact I would say, 99.9% of my blood relatives reside in Puerto Rico. Never-the-less, I felt at odds many times with the culture shock I experienced once I stepped off the plane. I also felt for my hosts because I knew I was no angel from NYC! As for the differences, I slowly learned that my identity was not only Puerto Rican but strongly Nuyorican! Heck, I liked it! It made me feel different and unique. Funny but, when I returned to New York, guess what? That's right... there were two million of us Nuyoricans here! Oh well, so much for my uniqueness as the only Nuyorican. Luckily, this was only a short-term dilemma which I gradually learned to cope with. A major grounding force in my life has been the experience of growing up on the Lower East Side. It has been the place where I have felt most accepted as a Puerto Rican, NuyoRican and AnyRican I've wanted to be. In fact, people there seemed to welcome my ideas of "me" as long as I accepted them as they were. Simple? Almost. It took years of practice, but it has become a big part of my value system. What made growing up on the Lower East Side interesting was not only the differences in cultures but religions as well. While a teenager, I got very involved with a youth group in my parish. Our group joined other local Catholic youth groups in organizing retreats under the auspices of the Lower East Side Area Conference (LESAC). LESAC was a Catholic based organization that provided advocacy for the residents of the Lower East Side. As an adolescent, I also had the opportunity to use my energies in projects such as homesteading on the Lower East Side where I learned quite a bit about my barrio as things progressed. I also participated in a volleyball program at the Cardinal Spellman Center, where I met many kids from the neighborhood in team competitions. Fortunately, the Center always provided us with a healthy and safe environment that contributed to our development and progress. In the years to come, that very same group of adolescents would help out by doing volunteer work at soup kitchens, nursing homes and hospitals. We eventually organized (with the help of the adults) to form a theater group that would go on to perform musical productions. What did this all mean to me? Well it has become a huge part of who I am today. Besides being a social worker, I am still an active participant in many political, social, and spiritual areas of life. The truth of the matter is that I may not have been interested or knowledgeable about many of these things today had it not been for the influences that mi barrio had on my life. That sopita called the Lower East Side has left a lasting impression deep in my soul. And even though I don't reside there anymore, it is still an important part of my life. It was where I learned to walk and love. It is where I return to remember that I am not only a NuyoRican, but a true Lower East Sider and human being. Amen!REV14
So You Want To Go To Law School…
(William Malpica)
I knew that I wanted to be a lawyer from the early age of ten. Since then, I have been called upon by my parents, aunts, uncles and neighbors to translate government notices, negotiate rent extensions, communicate with insurance companies, and complete important applications. I was chosen for these tasks because I spoke English and was among the first in my family to graduate high school. Since then, I knew that I wanted to represent people and help them solve their problems. Regardless of the reason for your interest in a legal career, I encourage you to act on that interest - a career as an attorney is not as out of reach as many people believe. I have written this article specifically to encourage young people from Loisaida to consider careers in the law. Below are my personal thoughts to help you develop a plan to successfully compete for admission to law school. Note, this is a realistic view. The road to law school is not for everyone. You must first decide that you really want it, and then work very hard every day to realize your goal. The good news is that all the tools necessary to enter law school can be learned: Law is not rocket science! Visualize The Goal The first step for any prospective candidate, whether you are in grammar school or have been out of school for twenty years, is to visualize yourself in law school. This may be difficult if you have no idea what it is like to be in law school. Below I have listed sources of mentors who can help you with this first task. Unless you are able to visualize your goal, it will be virtually impossible to determine the necessary steps to achieving that goal. Once you have visualized yourself sitting in a law school classroom, then trace the necessary steps backward to your current position. Here is part of the plan to provide a general idea: Goal: You are accepted to XYZ Law School! Steps:
Grade School Let's assume that you are currently in elementary or junior high school. Early on, you must accept the fact that your school work must come first - before friends, before free time, before any other hobbies. Your academic average will determine what high school you will attend. So focus on scoring the best possible grades. Remember, you can still have plenty of free time even after you've completed your work; the trick is to complete it first. By disciplining yourself early on, you will develop important habits that will enable you to do better with less effort later. Commit yourself to excellence now! High School When the time comes to choose a High School, do not select a school based on your friends' plans. Limit your choices to academic, not vocational schools. I attended Norman Thomas High School. I believe that I learned a great deal there; however, because it was primarily a vocational school, it was more difficult to gain acceptance to college. Since my high school did not offer certain classes that were required for college, I was required to make them up - for little or no credit. Academic high schools prepare students for college; vocational schools prepare students to work after graduation. Regardless of the high school you attend, you may choose to major in any academic subject. Many pre-law counselors advise students to choose History or English. I believe that the study of English is a very good idea. This is because law school applications require you to communicate clearly. Additionally, the ability to communicate is the most important tool a lawyer may possess. So for high school, and later for college, work to polish your writing and reading comprehension skills. One of the best ways to do this is to read a daily newspaper such as the New York Times. Remember, it does not really matter what you study in high school, so long as you attain the highest grades possible. So, it is usually best to study what interests you most. College Your college options will be determined by your performance in high school. As noted before, focus on scoring high grades and continue to polish your reading and writing skills. Choose a major that interests you so that you can do well. Introduce yourself to the pre-law adviser on your first day of classes. Begin to lay the groundwork for a strong application. Law schools look for strong analytical ability. Math, science and debate courses can be useful in this regard. Take writing or paper courses to prepare you to write a strong personal statement. Law schools also seek candidates who demonstrate a sincere interest in the law. To demonstrate your interest consider interning with the legislature, a law firm or with a judge while in college or high school. Admissions officers also look for leaders who care about their communities. Consider participating in student government or community service organizations. Your application will also require letters of recommendations from professors who are familiar with your work and your character. Be sure to develop one or two solid relationships with professors. By asking questions and allowing them to know you academically and personally, you will prepare your professors to write effective letters on your behalf. Applying to Law School An impressive college grade point average is only one of three key ingredients to law school acceptance - you must also submit a strong application and complete the LSAT. In your senior year of college you must start investigating law schools. There are many choices. I attend Fordham Law School in New York City because it allows me to work in the day and attend class at night. The application process is lengthy so you must begin working on it at least one full year in advance of your anticipated enrollment. Contact your guidance counselor and the organizations below for advice regarding specific schools and the application process. The final hurdle is the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). This exam tests your ability to think clearly and predicts your chances of success in law school. Students should study at least three months to prepare for this exam. You should contact your guidance counselor and the organizations below for advice regarding commercial preparation courses. Summary The road to law school is paved with hard work and sacrifice. In fact, acceptance into law school only extends that difficult path! Law school requires many hours of study and costs tens of thousands of dollars. Nonetheless, thousands of people apply each year because they recognize the many advantages of law school training far outweigh the costs. Our society respects lawyers and entrusts them with broad decision-making authority. Law school trains you to think and communicate clearly. As a result, legal training provides you with a great variety of career options, not only in the law, but in business, government, public affairs, social activism, academia, etc. I hope that my comments demonstrate that no matter what your position in life, if you really desire a career in the law, you can reach your goal. I have enjoyed the coursework and have met many interesting and potentially life-long friends. Although I have made temporary sacrifices, I have spared myself many of the more difficult, permanent sacrifices. As an attorney, I will have greater financial security for myself and my family. As an attorney I will be in a greater position to help people solve their problems. As an attorney I will never have to work as hard as my parents have for an unfair wage. To Get Help If you are willing to commit yourself to this goal, you will not be alone. There are many individuals who are committed to supporting you. Here are just a few helpful contacts: Fordham Law School Latino Law Students Association (LALSA) - provides tours of the school (including the opportunity to sit in on an actual class!), application counseling and admission to special events where you may meet mentors. Contact Oscar Tobar, Chair of the LALSA Recruitment Committee, at 212.636.6950. Puerto Rican Bar Association (PRBA) - provides law school scholarships, career fairs, orientation workshops, mentors, and resume/interview workshops. Visit the PRBA's web site at www.prba.net or contact the PRBA Student Liaison, William Malpica, at studentinfo@prba.net or 212.447.4444. Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund (PRLDEF) - provides discounted LSAT preparation courses, pre-law counseling, mentors. PRLDEF will host its 17th Annual LAW DAY for prospective candidates on Saturday, November 6, 1999. Contact Ileana Infante, Director of Education Division, at 212.219.3360 or www.prldefedu@aol.com. (As a graduate of their pre-law program, I recommend their services highly.) *Mr. Malpica was born and raised in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, attended public schools and graduated from State University of New York at Albany. He worked for almost ten years before finally enrolling in law school. Mr. Malpica and his wife reside in Long Island City, Queens. He welcomes questions and comments from our readers. He can be reached [via the publisher].REV15
*ON A PERSONAL NOTE...
An Open Letter To All That Cared
(Luis Pérez)
“Your thoughtfulness was of great comfort and truly appreciated. Gracias por haber estado con nosotros en los momentos mas dificiles.” These are the words I chose to express my family’s gratitude to all the people who attended my mother’s funeral this past February. As I write this it is hard to believe that the most important, influential, and most loved person in my life has been gone for six months. Having experienced the most dreaded of life’s inevitable event’s I learned that without the love and support of family and friends I could not of gotten through this time of my life. A few days after her burial I decided to finally put my new computer to good use by making “Thank You” cards, which I planned to mail out as expeditiously as possible to all those people who I am forever indebted to. In case you were wondering economics played no role in this decision to create my own cards. As a matter of fact, in retrospect, it probably would of been more prudent of me to purchase them at the nearest card shop considering my infamous computer prowess. I mean, the instructions to my American Greetings Create-A Card program seemed self explanatory and easy enough to follow (even for me). Upon the completion of my project, which I must admit was cathartic in many ways (it took long enough), I phoned my sister to inform her of my deed. She shared in my gratitude to those who helped us endure our pain and was eager to get her hands on the cards to forward them to her friends. As I sit here in front of my computer, once again, I am not sure how many of those cards made it into the hands of the people they were intended for. Ironically, this is the first time since I created the “Thank You” cards that I‘ve even attempted to write anything having to do with my mother. My family was very impressed with the creativity and choice of words in the cards that were signed “from the Pérez Family” (although I never felt articulate enough to truly express my appreciation). I, too, was happy with the way they turned out, but for some inexplicable reason six months later I realize that I had never mailed out my cards. I remember telling myself that I had some mailing to do , but I never got to them. Denial? I’m not sure why, but I can assure you that I am still indebted to all those who cared enough to share in my pain. And, I just wanted to tell you what I told my mother “Thank You!”REV16
The Characters
Doña Mileena Niña/Inocencia Boyfriend/Ricardo Cousin/Rosalia Niece/Chispa Butcher/Don Roberto Son/José Cousin-in-law/Papo Second cousin/Manuel Second cousin/Margarita Cousin/Asusena Second cousin/Esteban (Teby)
(Exit from kitchen, arrive at La
Marqueta).
(That evening Inocencia goes out dancing with
her friends. Enrique is there with his friends and so is Ricardo. Enrique
and Inocencia get into an argument and break up leaving Inocencia free. She
and Ricardo start dancing and slowly become better acquainted. )
(Exit all chatting and arguing about who sleeps
with who. Rosalia and Doña Mileena stay behind talking).
Rosalia:
Titi Mileena, Que Pasa?
Something is troubling you. I can see it in your face. Something
worries you.
Chispa: Titi
Mileena, can we go outside to play?
Papo:
Titi Mileena, when are your sons getting here? I can't wait to beat
them at a game of dominoes.
~Serves 30~
(Carmen Martínez)
Ingredients:
15 lbs. Green Bananas (Peeled)
6 lbs. White Yautia (Peeled)
2 Green Plantains (Peeled)
2 Medium size Potatoes (peeled)
1/4 cup annatto seeds (achiote)
1 1/2 cup of cooking oil
4 tbsp of salt
4 Tbsp. Sofrito (store bought or from
scratch)
1/2 cup of diced onions
40 stuffed green olives
8 oz. can of tomato sauce
Sazón
5-7 lbs. pork shoulder (cut in bite size
pcs.)
5-7 lbs. Smoked Cured ham (cut in bite size
pcs.)
A package of plantain leaves
A jar of sweet red pickled peppers (julienne)
Pastry string (to bundle pasteles)
Can of chick peas (optional)
Raisins (optional)
Adobo
Shopping Tip* Ask your butcher to cut the meat and remove the bone. This will reduce your cutting time considerably because you still have to cut the meat into smaller bite size pieces.
Preparations that should be made ahead: 1) Wash and cut plantain leaves down to a size of approximately 10 inches long by 4 inches wide. *To wash the leaves simply take a new damp sponge and wipe the leaves down to rid them of residue. Many older Puerto Rican style cooks still prepare the plantains leaves by burning them slightly over an open flame. This method is called martiguar las ojas. Although optional, I recommend that you use extreme caution if this method is used. 2) Prepare Sofrito (use ready made-if not, see our first issue for recipe)
(Day 1)
Step I...Preparing The Meat Remove pork shoulder from bone, cut into bite size pieces then season to taste with adobo (no salt) before placing in bowl (save the bones in a 5-quart pot). Follow the same procedure for the ham but do not season. Place the bowl of seasoned meat in the refrigerator overnight for marination. Next, after placing the left-over bones from the pork shoulder and ham in a 5-quart pot, add 5 cups of water and two chicken bouillon cubes (or two packets) then simmer until a broth consistency is achieved. When the broth has been reduced to approximately 2 cups, let it cool off then remove and discard the bones. Save the broth for La Maza preparation (store in a glass jar in the refrigerator until ready to use).
Step II...Prepare Broth Heat broth in a sauce pan and set aside.
Step III...Preparing The Achiote Coloring a) Fry annatto seeds in 1/2 cup of cooking oil until red color is achieved then strain into a jar and discard seeds (for la maza). b) Additional achiote mixture will be needed as this will be used frequently to line the parchment paper so that the pasteles won't stick. Fry 1/4 cup of annatto seeds in 1 cup of cooking oil then strain and discard seeds (mixture for lining parchment).
(La Maza)
Step IV...Peeling the vegetables a) Peeling green bananas and plantains require special care. Start by cutting off the tips at both ends of the banana then slit the peel lengthwise. Next, drop the scored bananas into a pot of hot tap water and remove the peels either with a knife or with your fingers (preferably thumbs). Use the same process for the plantains. After you've finished peeling the bananas and plantains, peel the potatoes and yautia and place the vegetables in a bowl. b) Grate all the above vegetables and mix together in a bowl to make La Maza. c) Add 1/2 cup of Achiote coloring oil to La Maza and mix well so that color and consistency is uniform. Tip* Green bananas should be peeled and grated immediately after purchasing to avoid ripening. If the pasteles cannot be completed the same day, La Maza may be refrigerated for up to 2 days. When removing it from the refrigerator, let La Maza stand at room temperature for about « an hour before mixing it for use.
(Day 2)
Step V...Preparing The Filling In a large 4-liter caldron, saute 1/2 cup of cooking oil, sofrito, diced onions and olives then add one can of tomato sauce and one packet of sazón. Stir for approximately ten minutes on a medium to low flame. Next, add the cubed meat, stir and cover. Let the mixture cook for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours (stirring occasionally). Now that everything is prepared (La Maza, the meat, and the achiote), spread the items out on a large table along with the parchment paper, plantain leaves, sweet red peppers, additional stuffed green olives, and the pastry string. Keep a large serving spoon in La Maza and a separate serving spoon for the meat, etc. Stack the parchment paper flat out in front of you and keep the bowl of achiote resting on top of the parchment paper (in case of any spills, the parchment paper will absorb it).
Step VI...Wrapping the Pasteles On top of a parchment sheet, spread out 1 Tbsp of achiote in the center, place a plantain leaf on the center of the parchment paper, thinly spread 1 « heaping serving spoons of La Maza onto the leaf, add one serving size spoonful of meat, one slice of red pepper and one olive. (Optional chick peas and raisins may be used here). Fold stuffed parchment paper in half (lengthwise), now fold over in half again so that empty part of parchment paper is folded down to meat stuffed part of paper. Fold in both right and left ends to center. End result will be a rectangle the size of the plantain leaves. Final step is to tie the pastel with pastry string (see above photo). Continue this process until La Maza has finished. *Yields approximately 30 pasteles.
Yucca Pasteles
Yucca pasteles are made in more or less the same way as the banana pasteles except that you only used yucca as the vegetable. Peeling Yucca is pretty tricky but if you cut the vegetable down into small pieces and slit the peels, you can easily take the skins right off. After you have grated the peeled Yucca, squeeze out the excess milky water (I recommend the use of a cheesecloth to remove the excess water). The broth from the bones in the previous pasteles recipe is also added to the Yucca Maza. Follow the same steps as in the green banana pasteles recipe (remember, the only difference is the vegetable substitution). *4 Large Yuccas Yield 20 pasteles.
To cook pasteles: Fill a large dutch oven pot half way full with water and add 2-4 Tbsp of salt. Add up to one dozen pasteles then cook for 30-45 minutes (or 50-60 minutes if frozen). Remove the pasteles from the water when cooked and place on a plate. Cut and discard string then open the center of the parchment paper to reveal the pastel. Remove and discard the remaining paper & plantain leaf. You are now ready to enjoy a pastel. Buen provecho!!! *Bundled pasteles may be frozen for approximately 2 months and will generally keep longer but it is not recommended.REV18
Acknowledgements
Once again, I would like to acknowledge the contributions of this unique
group of individuals who have given so generously of their time and talents.
As our extended family of friends continues to grow, we also continue to
pursue the all-important goal of imparting the knowledge gained from our
past experiences in order to give our successors a better chance.
A sincere thank you also goes out to the families of our team members
who have been so patient and supportive throughout the laborious process
of putting this project together.
The
Contributors...
George Arana Jr. is a certified real estate broker in New York City. Helen Arana is a health care worker in New York City. John Cancel is a hospital social worker practicing in New York City. Pard H. Chan is an optometrist practicing in upper New York. José O. González is an Assistant Vice President with a New York based foreign bank as well as a part-time photo journalist. Carmen Martínez (Project Facilitator) is an Assistant Vice President for a New York based bank. William Malpica is a member of the graduating class of 2000 at Fordham Law School. Upon graduation, he will join a New York City law firm where he will specialize in corporate securities law. William Millán (Project Coordinator) is a Social Work Supervisor with the New York City Department of Social Services.
Luis Pérez is a guidance counsellor with the New
York City Board of Education.
Photograph credits: a) Dominoes...José O. González b) Manhattan Skyline...Carmen Martínez
c) Lower East Side (1&2), Yankee Stadium, St. Mark's Cube, Roberto
Clemente Plaque, Escudo de Puerto Rico and Pasteles...William
Millán
Web Page Design:
William Millán
WE WELCOME YOUR
FEEDBACK!
If you are interested in writing or participating
in the REV project (or maybe just want to drop us a line), please feel free
to contact us at:
rev@loisaida.com
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PRÓXIMA-
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