Saturday, September 30, 2017

Puerto Rico

Cleveland, Ohio has a large population of Puerto Rican people. At one time it was second after New York. Many of my friends who I love are Puerto Rican. Here is my story.

I have attended the Annual Puerto Rican Parade and Latino Festival since the 90's. After attending for so long, I decided to join the organization who sponsors the parade. That was around 2002 (dates are fuzzy). I wanted to help because the parade and festival gave me so much joy.

The Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center in Cleveland is one of the most well known nonprofit organizations in the city. After being a member of the parade and festival planning committee for a few years, I was honored to be asked to join the Board. After serving on the board for one year, I was elected secretary. I actually cried because I was so touched.

Julia de Burgos is a mostly Puerto Rican organization open to any Latinos who want to participate. *They also provide opportunities for all people, not just Latinos. It's a cultural arts center and a second home to many Latinos on the west side of the city.

I still remember the first time I walked into the center. I was nervous because I didn't know one person. The President, Natividad Pagan (RIP) welcomed me con un abrazo fuerte.

Everyone was amazed that I drove all the way from Summit County to attend the meeting. Over the years I would drive back and forth two times a day! I didn't mind. There was work to be done!! Plus I enjoyed my time at the center. It was truly my home away from home. My friends are like mi familia.

I share all of this information to let you know my connection with Puerto Rico and Puerto Rican people. Right now la isla Puerto Rico is suffering. Hurricane Maria destroyed the island. Most are without power, water, and gasoline. People are go to die without our support.

I gave been tweeting legitimate charities and organizations that are helping. My Twitter is http://www.twitter.com/mlvlatina  ➡️@mlvlatina. Please donate. Any amount helps.

Below are some of the organizations I have personally researched and/or donated to over the past weeks:

https://internationalmedicalcorps.org

http://www.humanesociety.org

https://www.globalgiving.org

http://somosunavoz.com

These are just a few. If you are unable to donate, prayers and positive thoughts are appreciated and needed as well.

Sincerely,
Monica


Thursday, September 7, 2017

Better Days Ahead

I just celebrated my birthday on Monday. 🎂Wonderful day with my family. I even ate a piece of cake. I know, living la vida loca Lol.

It's hurricane season. Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma have destroyed many homes and lives. Pets are suffering too. If you are an animal lover please text LOVE to 20222. It's an easy way to donate $10.00 to the Humane Society.

2017 has shown the true colors of several people. Just watch and listen. Remember to vote for the people that share your values. Sometimes it's impossible to vote straight party lines. Good people in the Republican, Democratic, Green, and Independent parties.

I begrudgingly tried Kylie Jenner's cosmetic line. Lip products to be specific. Me gusta MUCHO. I have to give it to her, Kylie Cosmetics are fabulous. Long lasting glosses and metals. They smell amazing. Count me in as a fan. Who would have thought? 💋



The school year is off to an interesting start. I have a new "room" in the corner of the library (pictured below). It is not considered a room because I have no door and zero privacy. At least I am not in a mold infested room... The problem is I am not allowed to teach. Yes, not a typo. There are two other classes in the library during my class. It has to remain silent, so I now pass out worksheets and walk up and down the aisle. It's sad. I became a teacher to TEACH. There is nothing I can do about it, so I will do as I am told. I cried for two days. I am still hurting, but life goes on. I feel bad for the students. They are the ones that have the raw deal. Please pray and send positive energy our way.



Abrazos,
Monica