Latest news with #ElNuevoHerald
Epoch Times
24-05-2025
- Politics
- Epoch Times
Cuba Now a Strategic Battleground for China Against the US
Commentary Cuba has been impoverished by years of communist control, but it possesses a strategic vantage point that China prizes. Ryan Berg, director of the Americas Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said in his congressional testimony on May 6 that Cuba is a 'strategic battleground' with China. Twenty sensitive U.S. government facilities in Florida are in range of the expanding Chinese Cyber and Signals Intelligence Collection network in Cuba. Even before the Russians minimized their presence in Cuba in 2002, the Chinese were eyeing the Caribbean country. 'According to an article in El Nuevo Herald, the two reportedly signed an agreement granting China access to a number of former Soviet listening stations across the island, including the Bejucal base less than 10 miles from the old Lourdes station,' he noted. Related Stories 5/14/2025 5/13/2025 As part of the path toward resolving the Cuban Missile Crisis, President John F. Kennedy pledged publicly Chinese Military and Intelligence Network Grows in Cuba In the summer of 2023, Cuba leapt onto the front pages with the sudden, Then, The Associated Press reported there was an anonymous Biden administration official who confirmed that this started in 2019, which was a clever way of deflecting responsibility toward President Donald Trump. Berg pointed out that then-National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby 'reversed course and admitted to China's spy bases in Cuba, but insisted that its presence had existed since 2019 under the first Trump administration, implying the Biden administration had 'inherited' the challenge.' 'Around the same time, reports surfaced that China was pursuing the construction of a military training base in Cuba,' he added. Kirby had apparently missed the 1999 visit by Gen. Chi Haotian. In July 2024, The Chinese regime's presence in Cuba is just one element of Chinese surveillance surrounding Florida. China has been Gen. Glen VanHerck, former commander of U.S. Northern Command, pointed out, before the Chinese spy balloon episode, Cuba Receives Promises of Chinese Support Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez in Moscow on May 9 during the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in World War II. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said about the meeting, 'China is ready to work with Cuba to further strengthen their ironclad friendship, build a closer China–Cuba community with a shared future, and set an example of solidarity and cooperation between socialist countries and sincere interaction between developing countries.' In addition, the BRICS alliance—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—welcomed Cuba into the organization on Jan. 1, 2025, The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has developed an alliance with Russia, North Korea, Iran, Venezuela, and South Africa in its 'no limits' strategy to take on the United States, and it appears Cuba is entering this grouping of communist and totalitarian countries. CCP Lures Latin American Countries Wi th Financial Offer Following the U.S.–China tariff truce, China hosted a forum with the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in Beijing on May 13. Left-leaning leaders in Latin America, such as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Chilean President Gabriel Boric, and Colombian President Gustavo Petro, were in attendance. The CCP used a Belt and Road Initiative power play and extended a credit line of $9.2 billion to the Latin American countries in attendance, with a very important caveat: The currency used in the line of credit would be the Chinese yuan. The move, which excluded the global reserve currencies like the U.S. dollar, aimed to promote the yuan while China deepens its ties in the Americas. Of all the opportunities in the Americas, Cuba offers China the greatest return on investment. The short distance to the United States from Cuba allows the CCP a key intelligence observation point and a way to create a counterbalance of world support for Taiwan. There may not yet be missiles in Cuba, or at least they haven't been identified, but another Cuban crisis is developing. As a Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Miami Herald
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Don Omar: 25 years of musical legacy and a new business on the horizon
Two decades after the release of 'King of Kings,' one of the most iconic albums in reggaeton history, Don Omar continues to make waves—not just in music, but now in the business world. In an exclusive interview with El Nuevo Herald, the Puerto Rican artist reflected on his career, the lasting impact of his music, and his new venture as an entrepreneur. 'Having a 25-year career is a blessing—it's not something that happens to everyone,' he says with pride. 'Seeing that the parents, children, and even the grandchildren of my peers sing and dance to my music is something very special.' From the stage to the people's hearts From his early days in Puerto Rico to becoming a living legend of urban music, Don Omar has built a path filled with hits, awards, and broken records. Today, 20 years after his historic collaboration with Aventura on 'Ella y Yo,' his music still resonates across generations. His legacy isn't just about numbers or records sold—it's about the emotional connection he's built with millions of fans. 'Satisfaction is the word,' he says when asked how it feels to remain relevant in 2025. The entrepreneur behind the artist Don Omar's energy and passion have led him into a new chapter: a car care products company. While this move might seem unexpected, it's deeply tied to one of his passions—motorsports. 'For the past five years, I've been a huge motorsports fan. I'm a race car driver. I own race cars and now I have a company that doesn't feel like work—it's something I genuinely enjoy,' he says. This new venture, already with Advance Auto Parts, has plans to distribute in 4,000 stores across the U.S., and Don Omar has kicked off a promotional campaign in Central Florida. 'If you want more info, just check my social media—everything's there,' he adds enthusiastically. A message to his younger self To close the interview, we asked what he would say to his younger self—just before his career took off. 'I'd say, 'Be careful before you begin.' I came out of the church—I was a youth pastor. If I had met myself in that transition, I'd say, 'Don't forget that the Bible says: Above all else, guard your heart.'' In an industry often defined by fleeting fame, Don Omar stands as proof that true success is not only measured by applause—but by purpose.
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Historic shift in Hialeah politics: First woman mayor takes office amid council shakeup
From housewife and mother of three to mayor of the second-largest city in Miami-Dade County—Jacqueline Garcia-Roves made that leap in just six years. Garcia-Roves is becoming the first woman to serve as mayor of Hialeah, a strong mayor position, taking on the role in an interim capacity during the city's centennial anniversary, following Esteban 'Steve' Bovo's resignation to become a lobbyist in Washington, D.C, a move that took effect on Sunday. Garcia-Roves, 42, a mother who homeschooled her children, entered politics following in the footsteps of her father, Bernardo Garcia-Roves—a respected community leader who advised several of Hialeah's mayors and council members. Though politically connected for years, she formally stepped into the public spotlight in 2019 with the backing of then-Mayor Carlos Hernandez. Running on his slate, she defeated Milly Herrera, a prominent advocate for Hialeah Park. Known for her quiet presence during meetings, Garcia-Roves has typically supported items on the agenda and rarely voices opposition. 'I may be quiet, but I'm a firm believer that actions speak louder than words. I don't believe in speaking without purpose' said Garcia-Roves in her speech as mayor. 'I am here to work, to listen and to lead by example, with a clear focus on doing what is best for our beloved city.' To the media, Garcia-Roves said she plans to follow in the footsteps of former Mayor Bovo in governing the city. However, she pledged to ease the burden of Hialeah's high water and sewer fees—the fourth highest in Miami-Dade County. While she did not specify who would benefit from this relief, her office said the plan would be subsidized through grants the city has received. A similar promise was made by Bovo during his tenure but ultimately went unfulfilled. In 2023, during an election year, the city announced it would invest $250,000 in the Utility Assessment Relief Program (UARP) to help seniors offset a water rate hike that was implemented in September 2022. However, public records obtained by El Nuevo Herald revealed that only $4,711.50 in grants have actually been distributed through the program. One of the most defining moments of her political career came in 2022, when she led a public campaign to raise mental health awareness after losing a family member to suicide. Last year, Garcia-Roves gained attention again when Hialeah opposed Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava's proposal to hold a referendum for a $2.5 billion debt plan. As council vice president at the time, Garcia-Roves made an unusual statement on behalf of Bovo's administration, announcing the introduction of a resolution opposing any county bond referendum. Garcia-Roves was reelected unopposed to the city council in 2023, and a year later, she was chosen by her fellow council members to serve as council president—a symbolic role unless the mayor's seat becomes vacant, as it has now. According to the city charter, when the mayor's seat is vacated, the council president assumes the role. Although the next mayoral election is scheduled for November, a recent change to the city code allows for a two-month transition period after the election. As a result, Garcia-Roves will serve as interim mayor until January 2026—unless she decides to run for the office herself. When asked by the Herald whether she intends to run, Garcia-Roves didn't rule it out. 'It's a big decision I have to make,' she said. 'I need to sit down with my family and determine that. Right now, I'm focused on the position I've been entrusted with. But I have until June to make up my mind.' Several politicians are eyeing the mayor's seat in Hialeah now that it's officially open. Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia entered the race on March 31, filing his candidacy documents. He is set to challenge former council member Bryan Calvo, who was the first to launch his campaign after learning that Bovo would be stepping down. But they may not be the only contenders. Although no one else has formally filed paperwork, Councilwoman Monica Perez, reelected in 2023, told the Herald she is 'considering' run for mayor. She said several residents have encouraged her, though she made it clear she would not run against Commissioner Garcia if he decides to stay in the race. Garcia has told multiple TV outlets that he has not made a final decision and will wait until the qualification period, which runs from July 7-28, to determine whether he'll remain a candidate. Another potential contender: Council Member Jesus Tundidor, who, like Perez and Garcia-Roves was elected in 2019 under then-Mayor Carlos Hernandez, and reelected unopposed in 2023. However, Tundidor filed on April 4 to run for the Miami-Dade Commission seat that Garcia may vacate—anticipating a possible shuffle in political positions. Once considered the front-runner to succeed former Mayor Bovo, Tundidor was widely expected to have the former mayor's endorsement. Instead, Bovo threw his support behind Commissioner Garcia. With Garcia-Roves stepping into the mayor's role, her city council seat will remain vacant until at least January 2026. Two potential candidates have emerged as front runners to fill it. One of them is William Marrero, 21, who currently serves as an aide to Council Member Luis Rodriguez, who is also up for reelection. Marrero is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Public Administration at Florida International University, after earning an Associate in Arts degree in Public Policy and Services. He has been involved in public service since the age of 15, including four years working with Rodriguez. Marrero told the Herald he believes the city needs leaders who listen. His experience in politics, he said, gives him firsthand insight into how local government operates — and where it needs to improve. Marrero is also the boyfriend of Lorena Romero, 24, the newly appointed chief of staff to Mayor Garcia-Roves. Romero rose quickly through the ranks, going from a council aide to one of the city's most influential positions. Marrero's potential candidacy has raised questions about his independence and whether he may receive preferential support from the mayor. While the mayor does not have a vote on the council, the symbolic weight of the position and Garcia-Roves' influence could sway the council's decision. The other potential candidate is Eduardo Santiesteban, 49, a community activist and advertising professional whose political involvement began after a personal crisis involving his daughter. Her respiratory condition was endangered by limited access between Hialeah and Miami Lakes, particularly in the city's newly developed area near I-75. Motivated by the urgency of the situation, Santiesteban led a successful campaign to open a connecting bridge along Northwest 170th Street. He gained the support of Bovo, at the time a county commissioner. After becoming mayor, Bovo fulfilled the promise in August 2022, improving access for more than 16,000 residents in the area. Santiesteban ran for city council in 2021 in hopes of doing more for his neighborhood in Hialeah Heights, but lost in the primary. The seat was ultimately won by Bryan Calvo, who went on to become the sole opposition voice during Bovo's mayoral term. Another candidate in that race, Angelica Pacheco, later won a seat in 2023 but was removed by Gov. Ron DeSantis amid an ongoing FBI investigation into alleged healthcare fraud. Her trial is currently underway. When Pacheco's seat became vacant, Santiesteban attempted to fill it. However, then-Mayor Bovo reportedly pressured council members to withhold their support, arguing that since Santiesteban had previously lost an election, he should earn a seat through the voters, not by appointment. Local politicians told the Herald at the time that Bovo even threatened to veto the appointment if it moved forward. 'If you have run for office and not won, you should pursue the position through an electoral process,' Bovo said last year. The open mayoral seat, combined with four council seats up for election—including two currently held by interim appointees—raises the possibility of a complete political overhaul in Hialeah. If Garcia-Roves and Perez decide to run for mayor, and Tundidor pursues a seat on the Miami-Dade County Commission, every seat on the City Council could be in play this election cycle.
Miami Herald
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Historic shift in Hialeah politics: First woman mayor takes office amid council shakeup
From housewife and mother of three to mayor of the second-largest city in Miami-Dade County—Jacqueline Garcia-Roves made that leap in just six years. Garcia-Roves is becoming the first woman to serve as mayor of Hialeah, a strong mayor position, taking on the role in an interim capacity during the city's centennial anniversary, following Esteban 'Steve' Bovo's resignation to become a lobbyist in Washington, D.C, a move that took effect on Sunday. Garcia-Roves, 42, a mother who homeschooled her children, entered politics following in the footsteps of her father, Bernardo Garcia-Roves—a respected community leader who advised several of Hialeah's mayors and council members. Though politically connected for years, she formally stepped into the public spotlight in 2019 with the backing of then-Mayor Carlos Hernandez. Running on his slate, she defeated Milly Herrera, a prominent advocate for Hialeah Park. Known for her quiet presence during meetings, Garcia-Roves has typically supported items on the agenda and rarely voices opposition. 'I may be quiet, but I'm a firm believer that actions speak louder than words. I don't believe in speaking without purpose' said Garcia-Roves in her speech as mayor. 'I am here to work, to listen and to lead by example, with a clear focus on doing what is best for our beloved city.' To the media, Garcia-Roves said she plans to follow in the footsteps of former Mayor Bovo in governing the city. However, she pledged to ease the burden of Hialeah's high water and sewer fees—the fourth highest in Miami-Dade County. While she did not specify who would benefit from this relief, her office said the plan would be subsidized through grants the city has received. A similar promise was made by Bovo during his tenure but ultimately went unfulfilled. In 2023, during an election year, the city announced it would invest $250,000 in the Utility Assessment Relief Program (UARP) to help seniors offset a water rate hike that was implemented in September 2022. However, public records obtained by El Nuevo Herald reveal that only $4,711.50 in grants have actually been distributed through the program. One of the most defining moments of her political career came in 2022, when she led a public campaign to raise mental health awareness after losing a family member to suicide. last year, Garcia-Roves gained attention again when Hialeah opposed Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava's proposal to hold a referendum for a $2.5 billion debt plan. As council vice president at the time, Garcia-Roves made an unusual statement on behalf of Bovo's administration, announcing the introduction of a resolution opposing any county bond referendum. Garcia-Roves was reelected unopposed to the city council in 2023, and a year later, she was chosen by her fellow council members to serve as council president—a symbolic role unless the mayor's seat becomes vacant, as it has now. According to the city charter, when the mayor's seat is vacated, the council president assumes the role. Although the next mayoral election is scheduled for November, a recent change to the city code allows for a two-month transition period after the election. As a result, Garcia-Roves will serve as interim mayor until January 2026—unless she decides to run for the office herself. When asked by the Herald whether she intends to run, Garcia-Roves didn't rule it out. 'It's a big decision I have to make,' she said. 'I need to sit down with my family and determine that. Right now, I'm focused on the position I've been entrusted with. But I have until June to make up my mind.' Several politicians are eyeing the mayor's seat in Hialeah now that it's officially open. Miami-Dade County Commissioner René Garcia entered the race on March 31, filing his candidacy documents. He is set to challenge former council member Bryan Calvo, who was the first to launch his campaign after learning that Bovo would be stepping down. But they may not be the only contenders. Although no one else has formally filed paperwork, Councilwoman Monica Perez, reelected in 2023, told the Herald she is 'considering' run for mayor. She said several residents have encouraged her, though she made it clear she would not run against Commissioner Garcia if he decides to stay in the race. Garcia has told multiple TV outlets that he has not made a final decision and will wait until the qualification period, which runs from July 7-28, to determine whether he'll remain a candidate. Another potential contender: Council Member Jesus Tundidor, who, like Perez and Garcia-Roves was elected in 2019 under then-Mayor Carlos Hernandez. However, Tundidor filed on April 4 to run for the Miami-Dade Commission seat that Garcia may vacate—anticipating a possible shuffle in political positions. Once considered the front-runner to succeed former Mayor Bovo, Tundidor was widely expected to have the former mayor's endorsement. Instead, Bovo threw his support behind Commissioner Garcia. With Garcia-Roves stepping into the mayor's role, her city council seat will remain vacant until at least January 2026. Two potential candidates have emerged as front runners to fill it. One of them is William Marrero, 21, who currently serves as an aide to Council Member Luis Rodriguez, who is also up for reelection. Marrero is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Public Administration at Florida International University, after earning an Associate in Arts degree in Public Policy and Services. He has been involved in public service since the age of 15, including four years working with Rodriguez. Marrero told the Herald he believes the city needs leaders who listen. His experience in politics, he said, gives him firsthand insight into how local government operates — and where it needs to improve. Marrero is also the boyfriend of Lorena Romero, 24, the newly appointed chief of staff to Mayor Garcia-Roves. Romero rose quickly through the ranks, going from a council aide to one of the city's most influential positions. Marrero's potential candidacy has raised questions about his independence and whether he may receive preferential support from the mayor. While the mayor does not have a vote on the council, the symbolic weight of the position and Garcia-Roves' influence could sway the council's decision. The other potential candidate is Eduardo Santiesteban, 49, a community activist and advertising professional whose political involvement began after a personal crisis involving his daughter. Her respiratory condition was endangered by limited access between Hialeah and Miami Lakes, particularly in the city's newly developed area near I-75. Motivated by the urgency of the situation, Santiesteban led a successful campaign to open a connecting bridge along Northwest 170th Street. He gained the support of Bovo, at the time a county commissioner. After becoming mayor, Bovo fulfilled the promise in August 2022, improving access for more than 16,000 residents in the area. Santiesteban ran for city council in 2021 in hopes of doing more for his neighborhood in Hialeah Heights, but lost in the primary. The seat was ultimately won by Bryan Calvo, who went on to become the sole opposition voice during Bovo's mayoral term. Another candidate in that race, Angelica Pacheco, later won a seat in 2023 but was removed by Gov. Ron DeSantis amid an ongoing FBI investigation into alleged healthcare fraud. Her trial is currently underway. When Pacheco's seat became vacant, Santiesteban attempted to fill it. However, then-Mayor Bovo reportedly pressured council members to withhold their support, arguing that since Santiesteban had previously lost an election, he should earn a seat through the voters, not by appointment. Local politicians told the Herald at the time that Bovo even threatened to veto the appointment if it moved forward. 'If you have run for office and not won, you should pursue the position through an electoral process,' Bovo said last year. The open mayoral seat, combined with four council seats up for election—including two currently held by interim appointees—raises the possibility of a complete political overhaul in Hialeah. If Garcia-Roves and Perez decide to run for mayor, and Tundidor pursues a seat on the Miami-Dade County Commission, every seat on the City Council could be in play this election cycle.
