Monday Aug 7, 2023

The San Juan Daily Star, the only paper with News Service in English in Puerto Rico, publishes 7 days a week, with a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday edition, along with a Weekend Edition to cover Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

San Juan assembly approves public order code; one of its members calls it absurd

The San Juan Municipal Assembly has approved a “Public Order Code for the Municipality of San Juan” with 13 votes in favor and three against that regulates noise pollution and the sale of alcohol.

At least one critic says the code, which was approved Friday, is a ridiculous statute.

“After a comprehensive analysis, we brought the Code to a plenary vote, and with a total of 13 votes in favor, three against, and one excused, we approved and presented to all San Juan residents a Public Order Code tempered to the claim of all sectors,” Municipal Assembly Speaker Gloria Escudero Morales said in written a statement.

The code calls for the sale of alcoholic beverages from Monday to Friday to be limited to between 6 a.m. and 1 a.m., while on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) and on holidays that fall on a Monday, the sale of alcohol will be allowed between 6 a.m. and 2 a.m.

Businesses in Loíza Street came out publicly against the alcohol sale restrictions of the code because of the impact on their businesses.

INDEX

Cerame said in a written statement. “Now the Municipal Police are going to have to go around the hotels after 2 in the morning, verifying who is a guest and who is not.

[San Juan Mayor] Miguel Romero not only cut $4 million from the Municipal Police budget, but now he wants to have our 655 police officers patrolling the hotels, instead of patrolling the communities of San Juan.”

As of press time on Sunday, the Municipality of San Juan had not responded to a request for comment.

Excessive noise generated in various ways is also prohibited.

The code also imposes fines on individuals who block sidewalks or limit the free movement of people.

The repair of motor vehicles or electrical appliances on public roads is prohibited. Likewise, any person who walks or conveys a pet in a public space must pick up their bodily waste using polyethylene bags, otherwise or they could face a $250 fine.

The new public order code will become effective 90 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation.

Manuel Calderón Cerame, the Popular Democratic Party spokesperson in the municipal assembly, said the alcohol sales restrictions do not apply to hotel guests or to a restaurant that operates 24 hours a day with an open kitchen.

“This exclusion is the height of absurdity,” Calderón

Regarding the environment, the code prohibits the use of ash from the burning of coal in electric power generation plants as fill material or its deposit on any land in San Juan.

It also prevents using, possessing, transporting, spraying, storing, or selling naled, an insecticide used primarily to control adult mosquitoes. It also prohibits using any product containing glyphosate, a controversial herbicide.

Fiscal board given until Friday to file 3rd PREPA debt plan

The Financial Oversight and Management Board has until Friday, Aug. 11 to file its third debt adjustment plan for the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), according to a recent court order.

It is the third extension to file the amended adjustment plan since the oversight board said it planned to cut PREPA’s bankruptcy debt by more than half to comply with PREPA’s fiscal plan for the year ending June 30, 2024. Creditors have opposed the reduction, with bondholders indicating in June that they may seek to dismiss the case

so they can appoint a receiver.

The oversight board was supposed to file its amended plan of adjustment, but it requested an extension arguing that “material progress” was made in negotiating with unnamed creditors. In addition to reaching an agreement with the Fuel Line Lenders recently to amend the terms of the Fuel Line Lender PSA to align it with the projections in the 2023 PREPA fiscal plan, the oversight board has primarily been engaged in negotiations with other parties in interest to try to reach agreements for further plan support.

“While the oversight board cannot guaranty further

settlement will be attained, it continues to believe the prospects of at least one major settlement is high and possibly two major settlements are sufficient to avoid filing an amended plan this week that might have to be amended again shortly thereafter, especially because the filing will trigger other filings of positions and schedules that might also change if a new settlement is attained,” the oversight board said in its motion to extend the deadlines.

U.S. District Judge Laura Taylor Swain, who is overseeing Puerto Rico’s Title III bankruptcy processes, granted the extension late last week.

Speaker of Villalba Municipal Assembly replaces resigning Rep. Aponte Rosario

Popular Democratic Party President Jesús Manuel Ortiz González announced Sunday that Jesús “Chui” Hernández was elected as representative for the 26th House District (Villalba, Barranquitas, Coamo and Orocovis) following the resignation of Orlando Aponte Rosario.

“We are extremely satisfied with the participation of the delegates for this election,” Ortiz González said in a written statement. “This is an unequivocal sign that our popular base is activating, resuming their roles and ready to work for the PDP.”

With the participation of 90 of the 119 delegates with the right to vote, Hernández, who until Sunday had presided over the Villalba Municipal Assembly, was selected with 49 votes and will be sworn in as district representative as soon as the election is certified and he completes the obligatory training with the Office of the Comptroller and the Office of Government Ethics.

“My first reaction is to thank all the delegates who participated in the process, honoring Puerto Rican democracy,” Hernández said when the results became known. “Also, I want to express my respect for compañero John Avilés for this short

campaign that lived up to what our District 26 deserves.”

With the electoral redistricting that takes place every 10 years, the district will also include two Corozal units in the 2024 elections.

Hernández pointed out that he aspired to the position because “for me public service is a natural vocation, and given the current circumstances, I made myself available to the delegates.”

“For the past seven years I have served in the Villalba Municipal Legislature, where I have had the opportunity to preside over the Public Works Committee, as well as the Recreation and Sports Committee.”

In the past three years, Hernández has served as leader of the municipal assembly in Villalba.

“My experience in the private sector as an engineer for the past 10 years gives me a broad vision of the challenges we face as a society and government,” he said.

Speaking to the media in Barranquitas, Hernández emphasized that his priorities are improvements to roads (paving), support for sports (particularly community entities) and maximizing legislative allocations to improve the state of the district’s schools.

In general terms, he said, he will join in the allocation

work for the continued reconstruction of the municipalities that he will represent in the lower chamber.

Governor says he wants all NPP officeholders to seek reelection

Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia said Saturday that he prefers all elected leaders of the New Progressive Party (NPP) to seek reelection to their positions in the 2024 elections.

“Basically, my position is that I want all the incumbents of the New Progressive Party to repeat in their positions for the good of Puerto Rico, for the sake of the stability and credibility that that entails,” the governor said to questions from the press. “That includes everyone. That includes, yes it includes me, and it includes the resident commissioner. It includes all the mayors,

as well as the legislators we have, but I aspire to more because I want the NPP to elect more legislators to regain control of the Legislative Assembly. And, meanwhile, I want us to have more mayors… We must have more mayors than the 37 we currently have and I am focused on that.”

The governor insisted, however, that if there is a primary for the NPP gubernatorial candidacy with Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González Colón, he will prevail.

“Well, I’m going to beat anyone, no matter who it is in primaries, and without a primary election I’m going to beat anyone, based on the work that my administration has carried out,” Pierluisi said. “I have no doubt because

that work is going to speak louder than any promise, it is going to speak louder than any speech or message. I am more than prepared; as I said here, I am dedicated to my people and yes, I will say it, also delivered to the mayors of all of Puerto Rico.”

Regarding González Colón’s criticism of several agency chiefs, Pierluisi said “I’m not going to judge people.”

“It is not for me to judge others,” he said. “I speak what I have to say so that the record is clear.”

The governor’s statements were made in an aside with the press at the end of his participation in the NPP Mayors Summit in Guayanilla.

Being an artisan in Puerto Rico is challenging. Many people don’t support local businesses because bigger companies sell similar things at a cheaper price. For artisans to make a profit, their products must be a little more expensive than what people can find at a Walmart or Sam’s Club. Therefore, customers tend to lean more toward buying from larger outlets.

Finding a space to sell their products is also a challenge for island artisans. Some events charge more for a vendor space than what they make in a day, which is why some artisans don’t go to some of the events.

To help alleviate the situation, the Municipality of Caguas opens a space every month in the central marketplace where artisans can set up a stand free of charge. However, while this all may sound like tremendous news for artisans, shopper flow at the events isn’t always especially strong.

“Summer is a difficult time because people are usually on vacation,” said Roberto Delgado, operations manager at agroinnova Caguas, the organization responsible for the event. “We don’t hold the fair in July, though.”

“While the Caguas municipality does provide the space for artisans, they aren’t responsible for the event per se,” he noted, adding that agroinnova hosts the event and each artisan is responsible for promoting their own business on their respective social media pages.

Comments regarding the lack of people showing up

With more than half the population living under the poverty line and many island residents making considerable sacrifices in order to make ends meet, Puerto Rico has actively recognized the need for financial aid when it comes to its citizens. While federal funds have most certainly served the island in terms of welfare and fixing up the infrastructure,

for artisan fairs are very broad.

“Sometimes many people come, but today the flow of the event is quite slow,” Evelyn Pérez Pérez, a jewelry maker, told the STAR. “I think the problem is mainly the time of the event. The event is merely three hours long, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; this is rather short, and the mayor of Caguas should help us out with this a little by caring for the marketplace a little more -- this place does need

some remodeling.”

“More promotion would also be nice so that more people know about the event,” she added.

Some artisans pointed out a part of the marketplace that was closed because of some damage that didn’t allow space for more artisan stalls, making the event smaller in a sense.

Regardless of the struggles artisans face, when it comes to their craft, hope is not lost. Many artisans were set up at the fair, and one who stood out, to the surprise of many, won’t be old enough to drive anytime soon. Janieliz Munet O’farill is a 9-year-old artisan who’s been making soaps for two years straight.

“Everything has been made with glycerin, I melt the glycerin, then I put it in the mold,” she told the STAR. “Ever since I saw my aunty do it I was very passionate about it and she taught me how to do it.”

The little girl’s grandmother, Luisa Angelica O’farril, was also at the event and added that “Janieliz was always very close to her aunt; bonding with her is what made her get into soap making in the first place.”

“She’s been doing it for over a year and the only thing I do to help her is cut up the glycerin, because everything else she does on her own very diligently, all in spite of how difficult it is to be an artisan -- promoting your product while standing here for a long period of time,” the young artisan’s grandmother said.

While most children would rather play video games or with Barbie dolls, young Janieliz is making a business of her own. As long as people like her keep working hard, the future for artisans looks bright.

Despite low turnout for artisan fair, hope is not lost Governor, Guaynabo mayor hand out school materials

citizens still must manage everyday spending, which is why, just before school starts, many municipalities are handing out school kits to low-income families in order to provide a degree of financial aid with the back-toschool shopping season.

This past weekend it was Guaynabo’s turn, when Gov. Pedro Pierluisi Urrutia participated in an event alongside Mayor Edward O’ Neill Rosa. During the event, which was held in Mario Quijote Morales Coliseum, the governor, the mayor and the designated secretary of education, Yanira Raíces Vega, interacted with children and teens as well as with their parents and those who joined them from various service agencies, including barbers and stylists from the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation.

“For my administration it is a priority that our students have everything they need to go back to school,” the governor said. “At the same time, we are working on maintenance, painting and cleaning tasks, in addition to the reconstruction work that continues to be carried out in the schools, so that there are spaces that promote learning and foster the integration of our students. I thank the mayor of Guaynabo, Edward O’Neill, for inviting me to be part of this initiative, which directly impacts the most vulnerable families.”

The governor and mayor were also accompanied by island Reps. Georgie Navarro, Ángel Morey and Gabriel Rodríguez Aguiló, as well as Sens. Juan Oscar Morales, Nitza Morán and Migdalia Padilla, as well as Housing Secretary William Rodríguez Rodríguez and public housing administrator Alejandro Salgo Colón.

LULAC defines its policy toward Puerto Rico status

Nina Valedón Santiago, the president of Council #15711 of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and district director in Puerto Rico, announced Sunday that the organization unanimously approved a resolution of her authorship on Saturday to define LULAC’s new public policy on the issue of Puerto Rico’s status, which includes other options besides statehood.

“Instead of advocating statehood as the only option, LULAC rectifies its position and now asks the U.S. government for what is fair and democratic: a process of self-determination where all parties and all status options are present on equal terms,” said Valedón, the only delegate from Puerto Rico present at the convention held in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

LULAC is, as defined on its website, the oldest and largest Latino civic rights organization in the United States.

The theme of this year’s convention, “Knowledge is Power,” focused on the power of knowledge and the importance of unity in seeking and achieving social and economic justice for Hispanic communities in the United States.

Specifically, the unanimously approved resolution states that Puerto Rico “is an archipelago of more than 3 million U.S. and Latino citizens, with a significant diaspora

in the continental United States.” It also notes that Puerto Ricans “are committed to promoting a process of self-determination, where LULAC calls on the Government of

the United States to promote a process of democratic self-determination in which Puerto Ricans of all parties and ideologies can participate and in which the electorate

can consider all options.”

It adds that LULAC strongly believes in self-determination of the type of government that people should create for themselves and their families and considering that all the people and parties of Puerto Rico should have the opportunity to determine what kind of government they want, and all parties and the people should have the opportunity to express their opinion and vote for their election.

The document finally states that “at the LULAC General Assembly in Albuquerque, New Mexico, on August 5, 2023, it was voted to support said Resolution and ensure that all parties and people in Puerto Rico have the opportunity to express their opinion through their vote, and all options for the political relationship with the United States.”

“LULAC has a long history of service to our communities and as a Puerto Rican, for me it is important that we have an active and militant participation in this organization, and that democracy is promoted in every way,” Valedón Santiago said. “In a status event, excluding a large part of the population that believes in autonomy or another option of political relationship is a mistake in any league. That is why it is a triumph for democracy that LULAC promotes that the United States includes the participation of all sectors, including statehood.”

Labor Council for Latin American Advancement names first Puerto Rican president

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA) announced its newly elected executive board members, executive board officers and leadership over the weekend, unanimously electing Puerto Rican labor leader Evelyn DeJesus to a four-year term as its new president.

On Saturday, delegates from a variety of backgrounds, industries and unions came together to cast their votes for the future leadership of the organization, the LCLAA said in a press release. The newly elected board members bring with them a wealth of experience and a passion for advancing the rights and well-being of Latino/a workers, the LCLAA said. Their expertise spans various fields, including advocacy, legal representation, community organizing and education, ensuring a well-rounded and dynamic leadership team committed to achieving the organization’s mission and objectives, the organization said.

“Furthermore, LCLAA proudly welcomes its newly elected president, Evelyn DeJesus, as a historic milestone

in the organization’s journey,” the press release said. “Evelyn becomes the first Puertorriqueña and second Latina to hold this esteemed position, exemplifying the organization’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and gender equity within its ranks. Her exceptional leadership and dedication to empowering Latino/a workers have already made a profound impact on the community, and her election marks a turning point in the pursuit of social justice for all Latinos/as.”

DeJesus, who is from New York City, is the executive vice president of the American Federation of Teachers. She is also the president of the National Association for Bilingual Education, and is a board member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute and the National Immigration Forum, among other leadership positions.

The LCLAA, based in Washington, D.C., is dedicated to advocating for fair labor practices, promoting workers’ rights, and fostering a supportive community for Latinos/ as and their families. The new board is now under the leadership of DeJesus, Executive Vice President Xochitl Cobarruvias and Secretary-Treasurer Sergio Rascon.

Jan. 6 prosecutors ask for protective order, citing threatening Trump post

The federal prosecutors overseeing the indictment of former President Donald Trump on charges of seeking to overturn the 2020 election asked a judge Friday night to impose a protective order over the discovery evidence in the case, citing a threatening message that Trump had posted on social media.

By mentioning the incendiary post in an otherwise routine request seeking to keep Trump from making evidence public, the prosecutors in the office of the special counsel, Jack Smith, were drawing the attention of the judge, Tanya Chutkan, to Trump’s long-standing habit of attacking those involved in criminal cases against him.

Hours later, Trump’s campaign responded with a statement calling the post “the definition of political speech.” The statement suggested that the post had not been directed at anyone involved in the election interference case, saying it was meant for Trump’s political adversaries.

The exchange of words began Friday evening when Trump posted a message on Truth Social, his social media platform, issuing a vague but strongly worded threat.

Trump posted on Truth Social saying that “death and destruction” could follow if he were charged in the case in Manhattan.

That same month, Judge Lewis Kaplan, who was presiding over a federal rape and defamation lawsuit filed by writer E. Jean Carroll against Trump, told the former president to stop posting messages about the case. The ones he had already written were “entirely inappropriate,” the judge said.

Trump had derided the case on social media as a “scam” and personally mocked Carroll.

Trump has often ignored such warnings and continued to post threatening or spiteful messages with impunity.

“IF

YOU GO AFTER ME, I’M COMING AFTER YOU!”

he wrote.

Shortly after, in a standard move early in a criminal prosecution, the government filed its request for a protective order in the case to Chutkan. Prosecutors noted that protections over discovery were “particularly important” in this instance because Trump “has previously issued public statements on social media regarding witnesses, judges, attorneys and others associated with legal matters pending against him.”

To prove their point, they included a screenshot of the former president’s threatening post from that same evening.

A short time after the government’s filing, Trump’s campaign issued a statement with no aide’s name attached, insisting that he was practicing his First Amendment rights.

“The Truth post cited is the definition of political speech,” the statement said, adding that it was in response to “dishonest special interest groups” and political committees attacking him.

That Trump is a political candidate exercising free speech is going to be an element of his defense in the latest case against him. Trump’s campaign Friday also posted on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, a 60-second ad describing the prosecutors who have considered cases against him as the “fraud squad” acting on behalf of President Joe Biden. (It includes New York Attorney General Letitia James, who has brought a civil action case.)

The ad is one of Trump’s most aggressive denigrations of the prosecutors, whom he has consistently denounced. He has also promised that if elected, he would appoint a “real” special prosecutor to investigate Biden and his family, proposing to eliminate the post-Watergate norm of Justice Department independence.

But the Truth Social post was more direct than his past comments, in a case where a key aspect of the indictment describes how Trump’s repeated and false public claims that he was a victim of widespread election fraud led to the violent attack by a pro-Trump mob at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Chutkan, who was randomly assigned the case when the indictment was filed, ordered Trump’s lawyers on Saturday to respond with any objections to the government’s request by 5 p.m. Monday.

But that occasioned yet another dispute between Trump’s legal team and prosecutors.

First, John Lauro, one of Trump’s lawyers, filed court papers to Chutkan, asking her to push back the deadline to object to the protective order until Thursday. Smith’s team shot back, telling Chutkan that the government needed the order in place to start handing over discovery evidence and accusing Lauro of seeking to delay the process.

“The government stands ready to press send on a discovery production,” Thomas Windom, one of the prosecutors, wrote. “The defendant is standing in the way.”

By the end of the day, Chutkan denied the request for a delay, leaving Lauro to meet the Monday deadline.

Regardless of what the judge decides to do about the broader issues concerning the protective order, other judges in cases involving Trump have clearly warned him about using threatening language.

At a court hearing in Manhattan in April, Justice Juan Merchan, who is overseeing Trump’s state prosecution on charges stemming from a hush-money payment to a porn actress, warned the former president to refrain from making comments that were “likely to incite violence or civil unrest.”

Merchan’s admonition came after

After the hearing in front of Merchan, Trump returned to Florida and to his customary practice, calling the district attorney who brought the New York charges against him, Alvin Bragg, a “criminal,” and Merchan “a Trump-hating judge with a Trump-hating wife and family.”

Days after Kaplan’s admonition, Trump attacked him too, saying on a trip to one of his golf courses in Ireland that the judge was “extremely hostile.”

Trump indictment presents new obstacle in spending fight as shutdown looms

below the reductions House Republicans are considering in what is seen as an austere plan.

House Democrats uniformly oppose the emerging spending bills since they are below the spending levels agreed to by Biden and McCarthy in their deal to suspend the federal debt limit and contain numerous conservative policy riders they find objectionable.

Should conservatives prevail in their insistence on even deeper cuts and other restrictions on federal law enforcement, it could drive off more mainstream Republican votes. If conservatives such as Greene do not get what they want and oppose the legislation, McCarthy would face a painful dilemma: Either allow the spending measures to fail and force a government shutdown for which his party would almost certainly be blamed, or cooperate with Democrats to pass the bills and put his leadership position at risk.

The conservative animosity toward the FBI is a stark break with the traditional Republican orthodoxy of strong support for law enforcement. It has little traction in the Senate, where Democrats and Republicans have been working in a bipartisan fashion to advance spending bills for consideration when the Senate returns next month. Most senators of both parties would be opposed to entertaining the sort of spending reductions for law enforcement sought by House conservatives.

The political furor over the indictment last week of former President Donald Trump over his efforts to overturn the 2020 election is spilling into the escalating congressional spending fight as conservatives, following the former president’s lead, take aim at federal law enforcement agencies, raising yet another obstacle to avoiding a government shutdown.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, the far-right Georgia Republican who has become a close ally of Speaker Kevin McCarthy, reacted to the indictment by vowing to try to cut funding for special counsel Jack Smith while suggesting she would oppose other law enforcement spending measures as well. With Republicans pressing for deep spending cuts and social policy requirements that have alienated Democrats, they will likely have only four votes in their own party to spare, meaning just a handful of defections could sink the bills.

“This is nothing but a political assassination, and I will not vote to fund a communist regime,” Greene said in a statement after the latest indictment of Trump, the front-runner in the Republican presidential primary race. “I will not vote to fund a weaponized government while it politically persecutes not only President Trump but all conservative Americans.”

Her broadside echoed one by Trump himself, who after pleading not guilty in April to 34 felony charges in Manhattan alleging that he orchestrated a hush-money scheme to pave his path to the presidency and then sought to cover it up,

called for cutting funding of the Justice Department on his social media platform.

“REPUBLICANS IN CONGRESS SHOULD DEFUND THE DOJ AND FBI UNTIL THEY COME TO THEIR SENSES,” he wrote then.

Any attempt by the House to do his bidding would be dead on arrival in the Democratic-led Senate and at President Joe Biden’s White House. But Republican unrest over the indictment appears to have injected a powerful new political incentive into the struggle over spending, increasing Republicans’ appetite for a shutdown fight. That could present a difficult new dynamic for McCarthy as he seeks to placate the conservative wing of his party while avoiding a lapse in government funding on Oct. 1.

A right-wing advocacy group with significant influence among the most conservative House Republicans has been clamoring for months for deep cuts and “systemic changes” to the FBI, an approach that could gain momentum in light of the indictment. Lawmakers who had been hesitant to slash the law enforcement budget may now be emboldened to do so.

“Ending the weaponization of the FBI means defunding the worst areas of corruption & the focus on intelligence that led it away from actual law enforcement,” Russ Vought, a former top Trump administration budget official who now leads the right-wing Center for Renewing America, wrote late last month on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Vought’s group called for more than $2.5 billion in FBI reductions — a nearly 25% cut. Those cuts would be far

“I do not believe that there will be support in the Senate for defunding the FBI despite its mistakes outlined by the inspector general, nor do I believe that an effort to restrict the Department of Justice would be successful,” said Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, the top Republican on the Appropriations Committee, referring to a 2019 report on the Justice Department’s investigation into links between Russia and Trump campaign aides in 2016. “Our country is experiencing a crime wave, and we are in the midst of a serious drug epidemic. We need more law enforcement officers, not fewer.”

But members of the Freedom Caucus and other hardright lawmakers in the House say the Department of Justice’s pursuit of Trump and those arrested and jailed for the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the Capitol are examples of how the FBI has lost its way following the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, which resulted in Congress granting it new powers.

“I’d like to take it back to a minimum, sort of pre-9/11 focus on crime and working with state and local jurisdictions to combat crime and not be so much dwelling on domestic terrorism,” said Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the Freedom Caucus.

He and other conservatives are looking to at least block construction of an estimated $4 billion new FBI headquarters in the Washington suburbs, a project being hotly pursued by Democratic lawmakers from Maryland and Virginia.

When Congress returns in September, the House and Senate will have just a few weeks to try to pass their spending bills and reconcile their significant differences before the Sept. 30 deadline marking the end of the fiscal year, an outcome that seems highly unlikely.

To avoid a shutdown, Congress would then need to pass a stopgap spending bill, but even that temporary solution is no sure thing, given conservative demands for guarantees of deep spending cuts before moving forward.

Teenager is charged in killing of dancer at Brooklyn gas station

A17-year-old has been charged with murder in the killing of O’Shae Sibley, who was stabbed to death July 29 after a dispute over his dancing at a Brooklyn gas station.

Sibley, a gay man who was a professional dancer and choreographer, was returning from New Jersey to his home in Brooklyn with four friends that night when the group stopped at a gas station in the Midwood neighborhood, police said Saturday. As they filled up their car, they played Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” album and began dancing, officials said, at which point a group of men approached and told them to stop.

“We can see on the video the heated verbal dispute quickly turns physical,” Joseph Kenny, an assistant chief at the New York Police Department’s detective bureau, said at a news conference with Mayor Eric Adams announcing the arrest.

The men yelled homophobic slurs and anti-Black statements at Sibley, who was Black, and his friends, Kenny said, all while demanding they stop dancing. Bystanders acted as “peacemakers,” and the men shouting at Sibley’s group began to disperse, Kenny said — except for the defendant.

Video of the encounter, which lasted about four minutes, shows the teenager stabbing Sibley once in the chest, “damaging his heart,” Kenny said. A witness said the teenager then jumped into a Toyota Highlander that sped off. Sibley was taken to Maimonides Medical Center, where he

was pronounced dead that night.

The teenager, whom police did not name, lives in Brooklyn and was identified by police this past week using video and by working with other city agencies, Kenny said. The suspect turned himself in through an arrangement with his lawyer, Kenny added. He has been charged with second-degree murder, which has been charged as a hate crime, and with criminal possession of a weapon.

At the news conference, Adams said that Sibley’s family had been affected by something that “clearly” was a hate crime.

“This is a city where you are free to express yourself,” Adams said. “And that expression should never end with any form of violence.”

For many people, the death of Sibley — whom friends described as friendly, fun-loving and passionate about his art — was a shocking and violent reminder of the discrimination LGBTQ+ people face. It inspired an outpouring of grief over several days.

On Thursday evening, about 80 mourners gathered at the Stonewall Inn, the Greenwich Village bar known as the cradle of the gay rights movement. The next night, at an event at the Midwood Mobil station where Sibley was killed, attendees were encouraged to “vogue as an act of resistance” — a reference to the style of dance performed by Sibley and his friends. The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center in Greenwich Village announced it would hold a memorial Saturday evening. Public figures have also paid tribute: On Beyoncé’s website, “Rest

in Power O’Shae Sibley” was prominently displayed against a black backdrop.

Summy Ullah, a 32-year-old gas station attendant who witnessed the confrontation, said one of the men who approached Sibley and his friends had said: “I’m Muslim. I don’t want this here.”

At the news conference Saturday, flanked by leaders from the city’s gay and Muslim communities, Adams emphasized that Sibley’s killing was not evidence of hatred directed at LGBTQ+ people by Muslims in New York, and spoke about how both groups have been victims of hate. The two

communities “stand united against fighting any form of hate in this city,” he said.

Lee Soulja Simmons, executive director of the NYC Center For Black Pride, said he met Sibley about six years ago when Sibley was performing in an off-Broadway show about Black pride.

Simmons said that Black gay New Yorkers were wrestling with his death, while also living with the specter of hate crimes and discrimination being directed at them because of their identities.

Sibley “was doing nothing more but vogueing and dancing here,” he added. “He did not deserve to die in that way.”

Big tech rebounds and preps for transformative AI investments

Ayear ago, the tech industry’s prospects looked bleak. Google’s profit dropped. Shares of Facebook’s parent company, Meta, were in free fall. Business growth at Amazon had slowed to its lowest level in two decades.

But what looked like an industrywide bust appears to have been more of a correction. The most recent quarter was surprisingly strong for tech’s biggest companies. Meta’s and Google’s ad businesses rebounded. Microsoft’s cloud computing business continued to expand. So did Amazon’s ecommerce business. Apple, with a 1% decline, was the only big tech company whose revenue dropped.

Still, the slump exposed a weakness: The world’s largest tech companies hadn’t developed a big new idea in years. Despite pouring money into self-driving cars, the metaverse and quantum computers, the businesses still relied on digital ad sales, iPhones and cloud computing.

Now the companies are hoping that artificial intelligence will be the answer to the problem and a way to refresh aging product lines that haven’t changed all that much in recent years. They have plans to invest billions in generative AI technology, which powers chatbots like ChatGPT.

While making serious money from new AI products is still a ways off, a quick return to form has given the companies plenty of room to experiment.

In a call with investors Thursday,

Andy Jassy, Amazon’s CEO, said work on generative AI was still in early stages, but “I think it’s going to be transformative, and I think it’s going to transform virtually every customer experience that we know.” Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, made similar comments Thursday. And during recent calls with analysts, Google, Meta and Microsoft also said they would increase investments to support AI work.

For tech observers such as Stacy Rasgon, a Bernstein analyst who has covered the chip industry for 15 years, the surge in

spending to support the development of AI is reminiscent of the investments in servers in the late 1990s and data centers in 2010. Generative AI is expected to deliver more than $2 trillion in economic benefits, according to McKinsey, the corporate consultancy, by increasing productivity across a host of businesses.

The AI investments could also lift cloud computing sales across tech. The number of customers using Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service, a tool to build on the generative AI models developed by its partner OpenAI, has increased this year to more than 11,000, from 250. Microsoft said AI would contribute 2 percentage points of growth to the Azure business in the current quarter.

“It’s very early, but no one wants to be left behind,” said Gavin Baker, managing partner at Atreides Management, a Boston investment firm with $3.5 billion under management.

Baker compared it to the early days of the commercial internet in the 1990s. “It was obvious it would change the world, so people kept investing,” he said. “The same is happening with AI.”

Generative AI products are just starting to hit the market. Microsoft plans to

charge $360 a year for Microsoft 365 Copilot, an AI-powered assistant for Word, Excel and PowerPoint. But the amount of new sales it generates won’t be clear until sometime next year, according to analysts.

For the chipmaker Nvidia, the AI boom has already arrived. In May, Nvidia shocked Wall Street by forecasting that it would generate $11 billion in sales in its second quarter, which ended July 30, exceeding analysts’ expectations by more than $4 billion.

The big jump reflected surging demand for the graphics processing units, or GPUs, it designs to power AI technologies. Nvidia has no serious rivals in that market.

“It seems like everyone and their dog is buying GPUs,” Elon Musk said during a Twitter Spaces in April while discussing his plans for an AI company.

Nvidia’s data center business is projected to double sales this year, adding $15 billion. It is predicted to add $20 billion in new sales next year, according to Bernstein Research. And Nvidia’s share price has tripled this year, making the company one of a handful with a total value over $1 trillion.

Nvidia anticipated the AI boom. For years, Jensen Huang, the company’s CEO, had talked about how GPUs would power AI technologies. He was so convinced of this that he told analysts in 2017 that the company was “all in” on a single chip design.

“It’s all going to work out, or it’s going to work out terribly,” Huang said.

Other semiconductor companies are trying to claim a piece of the AI expansion. Broadcom has had some early success by working on custom AI chips for Google, and AMD is introducing a GPU in a bid to loosen Nvidia’s grip on the most important corner of the market.

If all the investment in AI fails to generate the financial boom that companies and investors hope, the tech companies that have splurged on GPUs and AI systems should be able to bear the costs and stomach the disappointment, Rasgon said. The recent quarter has demonstrated that their existing businesses are far from falling apart.

“If they guessed wrong, it’s not an enormous hit,” Rasgon said. “It would be a problem, but they can absorb it.”

Analysis-While AI Takes the Spotlight, Infrastructure Stocks Shine

U.S. stocks have rallied this year, largely on the back of companies with ties to artificial intelligence (AI), but as those shares become expensive, investors are turning towards firms set to benefit from government spending on infrastructure.

Nvidia shares have surged almost 205% year to date, while Meta Platforms has surged about 160% as investors anticipate the potential AI may unlock. The S&P communications services and technology sectors have risen more than 40% to be the best performers so far this year.

But while concerns grow that not all AI-related stocks will reap the benefits of the technology’s promise and as hopes for an economic soft landing have grown, investors are looking at stocks in industries that have underperformed the broader S&P 500.

“In technology, nobody ever guesses at the beginning who is the loser,” said Kim Forrest, chief investment officer at Bokeh Capital Partners in Pittsburgh.

Morgan Stanley recently raised its U.S. economic growth forecast for the year on a strong industrial sector and more public investment in infrastructure, citing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that was signed into law in November 2021.

That spending has led investors to search for stocks that will reap the benefits of the boost in spending in construction and engineering.

While the S&P 1500 industrials sector has risen nearly 13% so far this year and the materials one about 8%, those gains have been dwarfed by the 33% surge in the S&P 1500 construction materials and nearly 23% jump in construction and engineering indexes.

“The whole onshoring initiatives, all the infrastructure, fiscal spending that came through during the pandemic - in people’s minds that was done two, three years ago but the reality is that money hasn’t even gone into the economy yet - it is just now hitting,” said Bryant VanCronkhite, senior portfolio manager at Allspring Global Investments in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, in an interview with Reuters.

“So we are looking at businesses that are in the crosshairs of those initiatives.”

VanCronkhite said he views companies such as Vulcan Materials in the materials space and MasTec among industrials as well positioned to benefit from that spending.

Investors have rewarded companies in sectors that have reported strong earnings. Last week, Owens Corning shares climbed to a record high of $143.67 after the provider of building and industrial materials reported second-quarter earnings that handily beat expectations.

Earnings for the S&P 500 industrials sector are expected to rise 13.7% for the second quarter from the year-ago period, up from 6.7% on July 1, while the materials sector is expected to show a decline of 26.4%, a slight improvement from the 28% fall seen on July 1, according to Refinitiv data.

But while some stocks in the sector are likely to reap

MOST ASSERTIVE STOCKS

PUERTO RICO STOCKS COMMODITIES CURRENCY

the benefits of the spending spree, not all are likely to do so and caution is warranted, said Forrest, who favors specialty chemical company RPM International. Forrest cited the potential for projects to be delayed or jeopardized due to environmental concerns, for example.

“You have to look harder at these companies about what their end market really is, even though they’re in a sector.”

The technology index (.SPLRCT) was also the worst performer of the 11 major S&P sectors.

Yields being above 4% is “not what the market wants to see”, according to LPL’s Krosby, who also predicted investors will soon look beyond Fitch’s downgrade and turn their focus to big tech company earnings due after the close on Thursday.

“The market is now going to focus on Amazon.com Inc (AMZN.O) and Apple tomorrow afternoon, and then on the payroll report on Friday, and we’ll say goodbye to Fitch,” Krosby said.

Meanwhile, the ADP National Employment report showed private payrolls increased more than expected in July, pointing to continued labor market resilience that could shield the economy from a recession.

War, mediation or silence? Coup leaders in Niger face decision time.

Stocking up on rice, fleeing the capital by bus or vowing to defend their new military leaders, many in Niger have been bracing this past weekend as a deadline imposed by a 15-member bloc of West African nations for the country’s junta to relinquish power was set to expire on Sunday.

After mutinous soldiers detained Niger’s democratically elected president July 26, the bloc, the Economic Community of West African States, or ECOWAS, gave them an ultimatum: Restore democracy or face military action.

The threat has raised fears of a regional conflict in a part of Africa that includes some of the world’s poorest countries and that is already plagued by Islamist insurgencies, widespread food insecurity and the extreme effects of climate change.

But the ultimatum has also rallied many Nigeriens behind their new military leaders. On Sunday, tens of thousands of defiant junta supporters thronged the largest stadium in the capital, Niamey, voicing their anger against ECOWAS and chanting the name of the military official who claims to be in charge: Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani.

West African officials said they would employ force only as a last resort, and most analysts said a conflict appeared unlikely, at least in the near term. But ECOWAS military officials said they did have a plan for an intervention, if needed.

“Democracy must be restored, through diplomacy or force,” Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, Niger’s chief of defense staff, said Saturday in a telephone interview.

But the mutineers who were holding President Mohamed Bazoum said they would resist any effort to remove them from power, leaving Niger’s future — and that of its people — hanging in the balance.

Asmana Rachidou, 33, a father of six, was shopping for milk powder and packets of rice in downtown Niamey on Saturday. Prices have soared since ECOWAS imposed financial sanctions on the country last week. “If ECOWAS strikes, it will be over for us all, not only for the military,” Rachidou said.

Bazoum, a key Western ally who was elected in 2021, has refused to resign, and the military officials in charge have so far ignored calls to release him. They have also rebuffed threats by the United States and the European Union to cut ties, instead turning toward two neighboring countries,

Burkina Faso and Mali, that have also had coups in recent years and have since moved closer to Russia.

On Sunday, Bazoum remained stranded with his family in their private residence without electricity or water, according to a friend and adviser of the president who requested anonymity to discuss the president’s situation. Nigeria, which provides about 70% of Niger’s electricity, has suspended its energy supply, throwing most of the country into the dark. The president’s guards confiscated his cellphone SIM cards Saturday, according to the friend, leaving Bazoum unable to communicate with the outside world as he had done in the first days of his captivity.

The stalemate in Niger has also thrown into uncertainty the future of more than 2,500 Western troops stationed in the country for counterterrorism purposes, including about 1,100 Americans. Unlike neighboring countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali, where groups affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group have carried out hundreds of attacks and now control large swaths of territory, Niger has been faring better, with civilian deaths decreasing this year.

Modou Diaw, a humanitarian worker who traveled to Niger last month, said he had been able to visit areas that were previously impossible to reach because of the insecurity. “The situation was really improving,” said Diaw, vice president for West Africa at the International Rescue Committee, an aid organization, adding, “All these gains are now being threatened by this situation.”

The impasse could also send millions of Nigeriens further into poverty and instability, because their country depends on foreign aid for 40% of its national budget.

Still, this past weekend, hundreds of young

people struck a defiant tone in downtown Niamey, hailing the name of the general who claims to be in charge of Niger and vowing to defend the junta against any foreign intervention. On Saturday, they stood guard at the city’s roundabouts, checking cars for evidence of foreign meddling and spying, acting on a warning from the junta of such activity.

Many Nigeriens, in a sign of patriotism, have also set the country’s tricolor flag as their profile picture on the WhatsApp messaging platform.

But other Nigeriens have been making plans to wait out or even escape the capital. On Saturday, residents of Niamey flocked to shops to stock up on cooking staples, such as rice and oil, in the event of a military intervention. Middle-class families, unable to turn on their air conditioners during one of the year’s hottest periods, have rushed to buy mosquito nets to set up camps in their courtyards.

And many others, expecting fighting in Niamey, have fled the capital to elsewhere in Niger. Minata Abid, 22, a student majoring in human resources at the University of Niamey, left by bus late Friday with her twin sister and only some of their belongings — packed in two suitcases — after their mother saw social media posts about a possible military intervention and ordered them home.

They had arrived Sunday in Arlit, about 500 miles northeast of Niamey, happy to see their family again but concerned about when they would be able to return to school, Abid said. “I worry about my future,” she added.

Musa said that ECOWAS countries wanted a peaceful resolution of the situation and were not warmongers.

“There’s no need for a war. This would bring more destruction,” he said. Referring to Niger and Nigeria, Musa added, “Culturally, religiously, we’re almost like the same. It would be like fighting your brother.”

Ukrainians dismayed as Pope declines to condemn Russia at World Youth Day

On Friday afternoon, some of the hundreds of thousands of young Catholic pilgrims filing into a park in Lisbon to pray with Pope Francis stopped to embrace their Ukrainian peers standing on a small hill, holding blue-and-yellow flags and wearing black shirts featuring the faces of children killed in Russia’s invasion of their country.

“So many people are showing us support,” said Anastasiia Koval, 17, who wept as young Catholics from Portugal, Spain, Italy, the United States and many other nations hugged her. A priest stopped to wipe away her tears. “The pope — I don’t think so.”

Since declining to name Russia as the aggressor early in the war, Pope Francis has repeatedly expressed solidarity with the Ukrainian people, even calling them “martyred.” But his methods of pursuing peace — including a secret mission that baffled Ukrainian officials, and a reluctance to more fulsomely condemn Russia and President Vladimir Putin — have bothered many of the Ukrainian Catholics who came to last week’s major meeting of Catholic youth from around the world.

Before his arrival Saturday in Fátima, in central Portugal, the Vatican said that Francis would pray there for peace in Ukraine and the world while bringing Russia’s invasion back into view. But after praying silently in front of the town’s shrine and a statue of the Virgin Mary, he made no mention of a prayer for peace or Ukraine, and instead reiterated his central World Youth Day message that there is room for everyone in the church.

The pope said “nothing,” said the Rev. Roman Demush, who leads the youth ministry office for the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. “The war should make us scream, and it silences.”

The Vatican said that the pope had prayed “silently for peace” and tweeted from the pope’s account his prayer, which didn’t name either country but consecrated the church and world, “especially those countries at war,” to Mary. Fátima itself has links to Russia that go back more than a century. The town is best-known in Catholic tradition for three secret, apocalyptic prophesies said to be delivered to three children by an apparition of the Virgin Mary in 1917, when it was a poor village. One of the children went on to become a nun, and said that one prophecy had been that peace would reign on Earth if the pope and the world’s bishops converted Russia, which became communist in the year of the apparitions, and consecrated the nation to the “Immaculate Heart of Mary.”

The prophecy has drawn renewed attention since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and the roughly 500 young Ukrainians

who made the trip to World Youth Day in Lisbon this past week started their pilgrimage in Fátima. Fifteen of them also met with Francis at the Vatican embassy in Lisbon.

But for those hoping that he might take up their cause at World Youth Day, there was disappointment, just as there was last year when Francis delivered a prayer for peace that consecrated both Russia and Ukraine to Mary, leaving many Ukrainians feeling lumped in with their aggressors.

“He said he was impotent in front of this evil,” Demush said after the meeting, adding that the pope had expressed frustration at being unable to stop the violence. Mostly, he said, the pope listened intensely as the young Ukrainian pilgrims spoke about their suffering in the war and the friends and family they had lost.

One of the young people, Valentyna Velychko, 17, from Melitopol, said she had spoken of her life under occupation and the experience of having missiles fall on her town, how three of her friends had been killed, and how her boyfriend had lost limbs after stepping on a land mine.

Dmytro Bohak, 19, said he had told the pope about injuries he suffered while driving ambulances and other vehicles into Ukraine. He also recalled how another girl had brought tears to the pope’s eyes when she told him that she could no longer recognize her own father, who was disfigured physically and spiritually by the war.

But Bohak said that what was really needed was action by Francis.

“It’s not enough just to listen — he has to do something,” he said. “We want the pope to be clear, in an understandable way, that Russia is a terrorist state.”

On Friday afternoon, the larger Ukrainian group set up on the curve of a central Lisbon thoroughfare leading to the park where the pope solemnly commemorated the Way of the Cross. They sang their anthem between the Christian rock songs that boomed from the loudspeakers, and dispatched the members who spoke English to talk to the young people marching by.

“Russia kills us everyday,” Vira Ivanchuk, 24, told some Spanish girls who had stopped to look at the rows of Ukrainians. “The faces on the shirts are a small percentage of the children they are killing.”

When they left, Ivanchuk explained why she had felt it necessary to make her case.

“I understand that this is maybe not the place, a festival, where people want to talk about this,” she said. “But we need more weapons. We need F-16s, because we don’t have aerial capabilities. We need more weapons, support, economic sanctions, and please pray for us.”

The park continued to fill with 800,000 young Catholics as the Ukrainians stood mostly immobile. Some traded traditional Ukrainian dolls with Americans who gave out red, white and blue rubber bracelets.

Olena Syniuhu, 19, from Lviv, who handed out the dolls, said she had been nervous that some of the young people — especially Americans, whom she said had “given such a huge support to us” — would be exasperated with them. Instead, she said, she found herself next to a group of teenagers from Miami on Thursday night who made it abundantly clear “they were with us. I could see it in their eyes, it was like free therapy.”

Syniuhu said she hadn’t seen any Russians there, “and I don’t want to see any.”

Gobierno de Puerto Rico

DEPARTAMENTO DE DESARROLLO ECONÓMICO Y COMERCIO

Oficina de Gerencia de Permisos

AVISO VISTA PÚBLICA

Para conocimiento del público en general y de conformidad con las disposiciones del Artículo 8.6 de la Ley 161-2009, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley para la Reforma del Proceso de Permisos de Puerto Rico”, la Ley Núm. 38 -2017, según enmendada, conocida como “Ley de Procedimiento Administrativo Uniforme del Gobierno de Puerto Rico”, el Reglamento Conjunto para la Evaluación y Expedición de Permisos relacionados al Desarrollo, Uso de Terrenos y Operación de Negocios, en adelante Reglamento Conjunto y cualquier otra disposición de ley aplicable, se informa que la Oficina de Gerencia de Permisos (“OGPe”) celebrará vista pública para el caso que se describe a continuación:

Proyecto/Peticionario:

Cleo Esthetique/ Cleo Esthetique, LLC

Caso Núm. 2023-477768-PU-200536

Dueño de la Propiedad: José Ramírez Tolentino

Calificación: Agrícola General (A-G)

Cualquier interesado en acceder y participar en la Vista Pública Virtual puede a través de: www.ddec.pr.gov/vistaspublicas

Fecha: 25 de agosto de 2023 Hora: 9:30 a.m.

Dirección de la acción propuesta: Carr. 921, km. 2 Bo. Tejas Sector Atanacio Martínez, Las Piedras

En la vista del caso de referencia se interesa discutir, pero sin limitarse a: solicitud de permiso único vía variación en uso para Salón de Estética. La solicitud se evaluará a tenor, pero sin limitarse, a lo establecido en las Reglas 6.1.18 y 6.3.1 del Reglamento Conjunto y sus disposiciones sobre variación en uso. La parte proponente tendrá que justificar su solicitud para la concesión de la variación en uso.

Se convoca e invita al público en general a comparecer y participar a la vista pública a celebrarse mediante el método alterno (“virtual”), con acceso al público general, además de las partes reconocidas. Los procedimientos para la celebración de la vista serán los establecidos en las secciones 2.1.10.7 a 2.1.10.15 del Reglamento Conjunto. Si una parte debidamente citada no participa o comparece a la conferencia con antelación a la vista, a la vista pública o a cualquier otra etapa durante el procedimiento adjudicativo, el funcionario que presida la misma podrá declararla en rebeldía, multarla y continuar el procedimiento sin su participación, pero notificará por escrito a dicha parte su determinación según la Regla 2.1.7 (Notificaciones), los fundamentos para la misma, el recurso de revisión disponible y el plazo para ejercerlo Se advierte que las partes, incluyendo corporaciones y sociedades, podrán, pero no están obligadas a, comparecer asistidas por abogado. Salvo justa causa, la vista no podrá ser transferida. Cualquier solicitud de transferencia de vista tendrá un cargo de $100.00, y deberá ser presentada con no menos de cinco (5) días de antelación a la fecha de la misma a través del Sistema Unificado de Información (“Single Business Portal”) de la OGPe, expresando las razones que justifican la solicitud. Deberá, además, cubrir los costos que conlleve la notificación de la transferencia y anunciar el nuevo señalamiento mediante la publicación de un nuevo aviso de prensa. El peticionario de la transferencia de la vista notificará y enviará copia de la solicitud simultáneamente a las otras partes ya reconocidas en el proceso y certificará el cumplimiento con lo aquí expuesto en la propia solicitud de trasferencia. El Reglamento Conjunto faculta al Oficial Examinador a imponer una multa de $500.00 a toda persona que observe una conducta irrespetuosa durante la vista, o que intencionalmente interrumpa o dilate los procedimientos sin causa justificada.

Cualquier persona podrá requerir examinar el expediente o solicitar copia del mismo mediante solicitud (SCE) a través del Single Business Portal en la página https://sbp.ogpe.pr.gov/ o en cualquier oficina de la OGPe. Podrá, además, haciendo referencia al número de solicitud, presentar por escrito sus comentarios a través de notificaciones_ ogpe@ddec.pr.gov o a PO Box 41179, San Juan, PR 00940-1179 en cualquier momento previo a la fecha de la vista. El Oficial Examinador, motu proprio o a solicitud de parte, podrá conceder un término adicional para someter comentarios, que en ningún caso excederá de diez (10) días desde que concluya la vista

A shrinking footprint in Africa for France, the former colonizer that stayed

The country’s president, a trusted ally of France, was taken hostage in the presidential palace by his own guards in late July. Protesters massed at the French Embassy soon after, setting it on fire and shattering windows. A colonel in uniform appeared late Thursday on state television and announced that the military was ending its cooperation with France.

The chaos in the West African nation of Niger over the last 10 days was a repeat of earlier turmoil in nearby Burkina Faso and Mali — all three of which are former colonies of France, all struggling to put down violent insurgencies and all taken over by military juntas in recent years.

The coups have fanned the flames of popular anger against France, a former colonial power that critics say never really let go of its former possessions. Now, France has become a scapegoat of sorts in a region buckling under the forces of poverty, climate change and surging Islamic militancy.

“France did not see this coup coming, so they have not learned from Mali or Burkina Faso,” said Mujtaba Rahman, the managing director for Europe at Eurasia Group, a consultancy. “A clear domino theory for the 21st century.”

The upheaval in Niger has threatened the interests of both France and the United States, which have sent troops as well as military and economic aid to the region in an effort to assist countries fighting off insurgents.

Neighboring countries are also turning against one another: A bloc of West African countries unsettled by the coups has imposed sanctions on Niger and is threatening military intervention if coup leaders do not reinstate the president by Sunday. Mali and Burkina Faso — which are seen as aligned with Russia — have vowed to defend Niger’s coup makers.

Nearly half of the countries in Africa were at one time French colonies or protectorates. For decades, France has kept close albeit complicated ties with many former colonies, inclu-

ding a military presence, economic influence and direct access to heads of state, a web often referred to as “Françafrique” that came to embody France’s obsession with keeping a foothold there.

Aware of growing resentment, President Emmanuel Macron of France vowed when he was elected in 2017 to reset the relationship with the continent. He increased development aid to African countries, championed the push to return looted artifacts to Africa and promised to downsize France’s military presence.

But in many former French colonies, little changed in practice, critics say. Detractors accuse France of a paternalistic approach in Africa, maintaining close ties with authoritarian leaders in places like Chad and Cameroon.

Under the leadership of President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been detained since July 26, Niger had been a key Western ally in a troubled region, and a favored recipient of foreign aid.

Several thousand Western troops are stationed in the country, including 1,100 Americans and 1,500 French deployed in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel, a semiarid region plagued by the extreme effects of climate change and armed insurgents linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.

That fragile structure of Western aid and military assistance is now in doubt, with France’s position in disarray. A departure of French troops would likely force the departure of American troops as well, analysts say, with U.S. officials unlikely to trust Niger’s ruling generals.

“The military junta in Niger is seen as unreliable to put confidence in, because of the quick moves to get cozy with Mali’s and Bur-

kina Faso’s leaders,” said Aneliese Bernard, a former U.S. State Department adviser who has worked in Niger. Those leaders, who also took power in coups, have moved closer to Russia in recent years, and have met with at least one coup leader in Niger. Bernard said the recent developments in the country would likely accelerate a long-anticipated move of American troops from there to countries on the coast of West Africa.

If French troops leave Niger, Chad would remain the only country in the Sahel region known to host a French base.

This past week, France evacuated more than 550 of its nationals from Niger, citing growing insecurity following the attack on its embassy.

Niger accounts for about 10% of France’s uranium supply for its nuclear reactors. French company Orano, formerly known as Areva, has been accused of environmental pollution in the area around the mine — angering some Nigeriens.

“Fifty years that France exploits our uranium. Enough is enough,” Salim Sidimou, a 27-year-old student, said Thursday at a protest in Niamey, Niger’s capital.

Recent political upheavals in West Africa have so far not destabilized France’s trade on the continent. Its biggest African trading partners are Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa. Companies like Total Energies still have thousands of gas stations across Africa. Millions of West Africans rely on French satellite television channel Canal+ to watch soccer.

Yet that economic footprint is fading as American startups challenge French telecom companies in the mobile money sector, African banks replace French ones, and Turkish

or Chinese constructions companies win contracts once awarded to French firms. In the banking and the automobile sectors, French companies have lost their monopolies in West Africa.

In 2000, France accounted for 10% of Africa’s international trade, said Etienne Giros, the president of a group representing French economic interests on the continent. It has since fallen below 5%.

Recent coups and rising anger against France’s policies in the region did not favor investments, Giros added. “But we’re used to it,” he said. “This is Niger’s fifth coup.”

France’s perceived inability to stem jihadi insurgencies in West Africa has also added to public anger.

Rabi Ousmane, a mother of four present at the protest in Niamey, said she hated France because her husband, a Nigerien soldier, had died in a 2019 attack by insurgents and France had done “nothing to prevent it.”

“Long live the military men of Niger and to Tchiani,” she said, referring to Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, who claimed power in the coup.

When France ended a nine-year military intervention in Mali last year after a major fallout with the new military rulers, its soldiers relocated to Niger to continue counterterrorism operations in the region from there. In January, Burkina Faso terminated its military agreement with France, which soon pulled out its 400 troops, including 200 special forces.

French diplomats and military officials said at the time that they had learned from their mistakes: France would stop flying its flag over military bases in this corner of Africa and would focus on supporting the needs of African militaries instead of conducting operations on its own.

It appeared to be working. In the first six months of this year, political violence and civilian casualties decreased in Niger. On a recent trip to Washington, senior Nigerien military officials boasted that levels of violence were lower than in neighboring countries, Niger’s ambassador to the United States said in an interview this past week.

“There was a belated recognition by Macron and the French military leadership that they needed to be less condescending,” said Nathaniel Powell, a historian who has written a book on France’s military operations in Chad, Niger’s neighbor. “France had taken a back seat, and Niger was taking the lead.”

Had France adopted that approach earlier, Powell suggested, it may not face the challenges it now finds itself in. “They were winning on the operational front. But not with public opinion.”

Part thriller, part whodunit: The Trump indictment is a must-read

The federal indictment issued this week against Donald Trump for his efforts to steal the 2020 presidential election has a literary quality to it. It reads like a movie script.

A lot of what’s in it is information we already knew, but it’s worth noting that the document is simultaneously comprehensive and streamlined, with a clear protagonist, Trump, as a brooding, plotting, maleficent force sowing chaos and destruction.

It makes this unprecedented moment in American history digestible and reestablishes the tension that we should all acknowledge about the magnitude of what took place after the last election: Trump engaged in one of the most sweeping and consequential voter suppression efforts in the country’s history.

The indictment is the harrowing, true-life story of how a former president pushed our democracy perilously close to the edge and remains a threat to push it over.

Avid consumers of news and those of us in the news business can grow cold to this kind of development. We track revelations in real time. We read the stories and the books as they’re written. We watch television interviews and listen to podcasts. For us, the indictment

may feel anticlimactic, just a bit farther down judicial and political lines laid like parallel train tracks.

But in the milieu of what I call our “urgent incrementalism,” with our appetite for granularity and comprehensiveness, we newshounds sometimes lose the perspective of the everyday citizen.

Most people don’t follow each iteration of a story, not because they’re uninterested but because they’re distracted. Their lives are happening. They’re trying to grab coffee for the commute, worrying about the rent getting paid, trying to remember if they signed the permission slip and nervously eying the fuel gauge as the indicator creeps toward E.

For that reason, the absorbable — and quite absorbing — summary that the indictment represents is crucial. Among other virtues, it isn’t written in dense legalese. It’s a drama that takes readers into Trump’s thinking. It allows them to see not only what lies Trump is accused of telling, but also how he viewed the things he said at the time he said them.

People often talk about Trump lying for selfaggrandizement and about his thirst for others’ lies meant to flatter him. All true, but that category of lies is on the frivolous end of the spectrum.

The indictment charges him with another category of lying: of trying to compel the actions of others. It highlights Trump’s elite-level penchant for deceit.

It makes a convincing case that Trump wasn’t misled by minions feeding his vanity, but was instead calculating, telling lies that he believed would pressure those minions to act in his interest. He seemed to constantly be scanning the room, searching for which confidants were offering the most useful fabrications, for those willing to commit to his election-denying craziness, for the kamikazes of false narratives.

Trump used the deception that he and his supporters were under lawless attack to justify a by-any-meansnecessary counterattack. On Jan. 6, 2021, Trump directed his supporters to descend on the Capitol, imploring Republicans to “get tougher” and cast aside the strictures of convention, saying: “And fraud breaks up everything, doesn’t it? When you catch somebody in a fraud, you’re allowed to go by very different rules.”

That day, Trump would repeatedly, falsely, claim that fraud had led to his defeat.

The indictment also illustrates how Trump linked other people’s fortunes to his own, creating a dependency, a symbiosis, in which there is peril in severance. Defending Trump becomes a form of self-defense for those who support him.

There’s a biological phenomenon known as parasitism, a relationship in which a parasite benefits

while its host is harmed. This is the relationship that many Republicans — both politicians and voters — find themselves in with Trump. But they have courted their own infection.

Trump is the clear villain of this story, but for his adherents, villainy is subjective.

In Donald Miller’s book, “Hero on a Mission,” he posits that in stories, heroes and villains have a similar background: They both start as victims. What separates them, he suggests, is how they process their pain.

Trump is the hero of Trump World because he mirrors and amplifies his devotees’ collective psyche. He processes pain — often of his own invention — by inflicting it. He craves vengeance. He courts cruelty. He flouts the rules.

In the indictment, it is some of the secondary characters — the state officials, campaign staff members and White House lawyers who pushed back against Trump’s plotting — who emerge as the antiheroes, providing much of the evidence arrayed against Trump.

According to the indictment, as one campaign adviser emailed in 2020 about the dubious efforts of Trump’s “elite” legal team: “I’ll obviously hustle to help on all fronts, but it’s tough to own any of this,” conspiracy theories “beamed down from the mother ship.”

The indictment isn’t a pleasant read, but it’s surprisingly readable. It isn’t entertainment, but it’s a must-read document detailing one of the gravest threats the country has ever faced from a president. It most likely won’t change minds or significantly alter political trajectories.

But it does make a clear and compelling case, and that is a service to the country in its own right.

POR EL STAR STAFF

SAN JUAN – El titular interino de la Defensoría de las Personas con Impedimentos (DPI), Lcdo. Juan José Troche Villeneuve, informó que el Congreso Anual de la agencia se llevará a cabo este próximo jueves, 10 de agosto de 2023, en horario de 8:30 am a 4:00 pm, en el Centro de Convenciones Dr. Ramón Emeterio Betances y Alacán de Cabo Rojo, localizado en la PR100, de dicho municipio.

En el mismo se atenderán varios temas en beneficio de las distintas poblaciones de personas con impedimentos en Puerto Rico, particularmente es importante el Taller de Accesibilidad “Standards for Accessible Design”, basado en la

‘American Disabilities Act’, así como el Taller sobre la Comunidad Sorda en Puerto Rico y un conversatorio sobre los nuevos avances tecnológicos para personas con impedimentos”, señalo el abogado.

Además, el evento contará con diversos exhibidores de agencias del gobierno y organizaciones sin fines de lucro que sirven a la población con impedimentos. Para más información y separar su espacio, los interesados deben acceder al siguiente enlace: https:// forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=XDztA jc34kOpPnjDGjovg4OjnUQJH-BGnOYOIukBPxJUNzZYMFYwU1IyWUs0UVcyM0IwNFVQRlYzSS4u&ori gin=QRCode&qrcodeorigin=presentation y completar la información solicitada. También, pueden comunicarse al número de teléfono 787-265-0244 o enviar un correo electrónico a dpi@dpi.pr.gov.

Cayey invita a celebrar sus Fiestas Patronales y los 250 años de su fundación

CAYEY – El alcalde de Cayey, Rolando Ortiz Velázquez, anunció detalles adicionales de la celebración de las Fiestas Patronales, que coinciden con la celebración de los 250 años de la fundación de la ciudad.

“Iniciamos el martes, 15 de agosto a las 6:00 de la tarde con una Misa en honor a la patrona de la ciudad, Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, en la parroquia frente a la plaza Ramón Frade León. Allí se hará entrega de la Proclama Oficial de inicio de las actividades. Ya a las 7:00 de la noche en la antigua Casa Alcaldía, es la apertura de la Exposición de Arte y la presentación del afiche oficial de los 250 años de fundación. De ahí pasamos a la presentación de la Rondalla Voces de América a las 8:00 de la noche en la concha acústica”, señaló el Alcalde. Las actividades continúan hasta el domingo, 30 de agosto.

El miércoles, 16 de agosto se celebra el evento comunitario ‘Fiesta en el Centro Urbano’ desde las 4:00 de la tarde con la participación de los comercios, centros de servicios, restaurantes y tiendas de la zona, en la plaza Ramón Frade, seguido de una exposición cultural en la Casa Alcaldía. El jueves, 17 de julio es el Día de la Fundación de Cayey. A las 10:00 de la mañana es la presentación oficial en la plaza Ramón Frade del matasellos del correo en conmemoración a los 250 años de fundación de la ciudad, con la música de talentos locales.

“Para este evento invitamos a todos los ciudadanos que acudan con sus sobres y sellos para poncharlos con el matasello oficial. Eso tiene un valor en el coleccionismo de la filatelia, porque es un recuerdo de los logros

de nuestra ciudad en estos 250 años”, señaló el Alcalde. Ese mismo jueves 17, a las 4:00 de la tarde en la plaza Ramón Frade es la apertura de la presentación de artesanos puertorriqueños con diversidad de productos y diseños. A las 5:00, en el mismo lugar, se presenta la Banda Ágape Musical de la Escuela de Bellas Artes de Cayey, con Misa a las 6:00 de la tarde en la Parroquia. Para esta ceremonia se recibirá al señor obispo de la Diócesis de Caguas, Monseñor Eusebio Morales Ramos. A las 7:00 de la noche se presentará el nuevo Himno de Cayey, producto de un concurso de compositores y artistas convocados a dicho fin. La pieza musical a presentarse esa noche en la plaza pública está a cargo del maestro Cucco Peña.

Por otro lado, la celebración de las Fiestas Patronales será frente al Estadio Pedro Montañez e inician en grande el jueves 17 desde las 4:00 de la tarde con machinas, kioskos con comidas y bebidas típicas, y música desde las 8:00 de la noche en la tarima principal. El evento se repite el viernes, sábado y domingo. El calendario completo de los artistas, orquestas y cantantes se presentará próximamente.

El Reinado y Encuentro de Reinas se llevará a cabo el sábado 19, con salida a las 4:00 de la tarde desde el terminal Leonides ‘Johnny’ Toledo, en desfile por toda la Avenida Baldorioty hacia el Estadio Pedro Montañez. El evento tendrá premiaciones para las reinas residentes en los pueblos más distantes de Cayey, el pueblo con la mejor representación como batuteras, grupos de baile y comparsas, así como la reina con mejor representación infantil y juvenil. Para más información, los interesados pueden llamar al 787-738-3211.

Mientras, en el ámbito deportivo, los días sábado 19

y domingo 20 se celebran los eventos del Circuito Internacional de Ciclismo y el Maratón 8K Coquí Dorado, desde la plaza pública Ramón Frade. Para inscripciones, los interesados pueden acceder de manera cibernénica en mieventoonline.com antes del jueves, 17 de agosto de 2023 o llamando al 787-383-7347, 787-4879909 y 787-316-4947. Dicho evento es pro fondos del Club de Atletismo de Cayey.

La Defensoría de las Personas con Impedimentos celebra su Congreso Anual este jueves en Cabo Rojo

How Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour conquered the world

As Taylor Swift rolled into Los Angeles this past week, the frenzy surrounding her record-breaking Eras Tour was already in high gear.

Headlines gushed that she had given $100,000 bonuses to her crew. Politicians asked her to postpone her concerts in solidarity with striking hotel workers. Scalped tickets were going for $3,000 and up. And there were way, way too many friendship bracelets to count.

These days, the center of an otherwise splintered music world can only be Taylor Swift.

The pop superstar’s tour, which is now finishing its initial North American leg with six nights at SoFi Stadium outside Los Angeles, has been a both a business and a cultural juggernaut. Swift’s catalog of generation-defining hits and canny marketing sense have helped her achieve a level of white-hot demand and media saturation not seen since the 1980s heyday of Michael Jackson and Madonna — a dominance that the entertainment business had largely accepted as impossible to replicate in the fragmented 21st century.

“The only thing I can compare it to is the phenomenon of Beatlemania,” said Billy Joel, who attended Swift’s show in Tampa, Florida, with his wife and young daughters.

In a summer of tours by stars like Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, Morgan Wallen and Drake, Swift’s stands apart, in numbers and in media noise. Although Swift, 33, and her promoters do not publicly report box-office figures, trade publication Pollstar estimated that she has been selling about $14 million in tickets each night. By the end of the full world tour, which is booked with 146 stadium dates well into 2024, Swift’s sales could reach $1.4 billion or more — exceeding Elton John’s $939 million for his multiyear farewell tour, the current record-holder.

Swift has now had more No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 over the course of her career than any other woman, surpassing Barbra Streisand. With the tour lifting Swift’s entire body of work, she has placed 10 albums on that chart this year and is the first living artist since trumpeter and bandleader Herb Alpert in 1966 to have four titles in the Top 10 at the same time.

“It’s a pretty amazing feat,” Alpert, 88, said in a phone interview. “With the way radio is these days, and the way music is distributed, with streaming, I didn’t think anyone in this era

could do it.”

But how did a concert tour become so much more: fodder for gossip columns, the subject of weather reports, a boon for friendship-bracelet beads — the unofficial currency of Swiftie fandom — and the reason nobody could get a hotel room in Cincinnati at the end of June?

“She is the best CEO, and best chief marketing officer, in the history of music,” said Nathan Hubbard, a longtime music and ticketing executive who co-hosts a Swift podcast.

“She is following people like Bono, Jay-Z and Madonna, who were acutely aware of their brands. But of all of them, Taylor is the first one to be natively online.”

Music critics have portrayed the Eras

Tour as showing Swift at the top of her game as a media-savvy, big-tent talent, a pop star with a knack for grand spectacle as well as the polished artistry of a classic songwriter.

Shania Twain, the country-pop star whose career in some ways prefigured Swift’s, caught the Las Vegas stop of the Eras Tour, a 44plus song production that goes as long as 3 1/2 hours. She praised Swift’s “beautiful balance” of high-tech stagecraft and intimate performance segments. “I have to applaud her,” Twain said in a telephone interview. “As a performer, I know that work that goes into it.”

The power of Swift’s fan army — and fear of crossing the star, or even appearing to — has kept nearly all of the press about the tour sunny. Although some fans (and parents) balked

at the ticket prices and challenges of securing seats, most frustration was directed squarely at Ticketmaster, not Swift. After a few weeks of headlines romantically linking Swift with a frontman some fans considered to be problematic, reports spread in the celebrity pages that they had split. (Swift’s representatives declined to comment for this article.)

For fans, the shows are a pilgrimage, and a rediscovery of the joys of mass gatherings. Flights are packed with Swifties, and travelers trade stories and compare outfits — drawn from looks associated with Swift “eras” — in stadium corridors and parking lots. In Kansas City, comedian Nikki Glaser was attending her eighth show, a commitment that she estimated has cost her $25,000.

“This year I decided not to freeze my eggs,” Glaser said. “I’m going to put that money toward the thing I love most in the world, which is Taylor Swift.”

Before Eras, Swift hadn’t been on tour since 2018. And her catalog has grown by seven No. 1 albums since then, fueled in part by three rerecorded “Taylor’s Versions” of her first LPs — a project hailed by Swift’s fans as a crusade to regain control of her music, though it is also an act of revenge after the sale of Swift’s former record label, a move that, she said, “stripped me of my life’s work.”

“Folklore” and “Evermore” expanded her palate into fantastical indie-folk and brought new collaborators into the fold: Aaron Dessner from the band the National and Justin Vernon, aka Bon Iver, rock-world figures who helped attract new listeners.

The other major tour this year that is enticing fans to book transcontinental flights, and to show up costumed and in rapture, is also by a woman: Beyoncé, 41, whose Renaissance tour is a fantasia of disco and retrofuturism. Like Swift, she is also a trailblazing artist-entrepreneur, maintaining tight control over her career and fostering a rich connection with fans online. Together with Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie,” a critique of the patriarchy told in hot pink, they are signs of powerful women ruling the discourse of pop culture.

But in music, at least, the scale and success of Swift’s tour is without equal. Later this month, after completing 53 shows in the United States, she will kick off an international itinerary of at least 78 more before returning to North America next fall. Beyoncé’s full tour has 56 dates; Springsteen’s, 90. (Recently, Harry Styles wrapped a 173-date tour in arenas and stadiums, grossing about $590 million.)

Leny Andrade, ‘first lady of Brazilian jazz,’ dies at 80

Leny Andrade, a Brazilian singer who earned an international following with her soulful fusion of samba, bossa nova and American jazz and whom Tony Bennett once called the Ella Fitzgerald of Brazil, died July 24 in Rio de Janeiro. She was 80.

Her death, in a hospital, from pneumonia, was confirmed in a statement by a Rio retirement home for artists where she was living. She had also been treated for Lewy body dementia.

Often referred to as “the first lady of Brazilian jazz,” Andrade (pronounced ahn-DRAH-jay) rose from the clubs of Rio, where she performed as a teenager, to forge a six-decade career, recording more than 35 albums as a pioneer of what she came to call bossa-jazz.

In 2007, Andrade won a Latin Grammy Award for “Ao Vivo,” a live album with celebrated Brazilian pianist César Camargo Mariano.

“Leny is one of the greatest improvisers in the world,” Bennett, who died last month, once said. “I love the way she sings. She is an original.”

Singing largely in Portuguese, Andrade brought a richness and emotional depth to icily cool bossa nova tracks, pulse-quickening sambas and soulful ballads, which she infused with a world-weary sultriness.

In a review of her American debut in 1983 at the Blue Note jazz club in New York, John S. Wilson of The New York Times praised the emotive power she brought to

“Cantador,” a ballad in the intense Edith Piaf tradition. “Miss Andrade sings it in a darker, softer voice than Piaf’s,” he wrote, “with a dramatic effect that comes through even to a listener who doesn’t understand Portuguese.”

Andrade’s career took off in the United States in 1993 after she moved to New York, where she became a popular draw, performing at Birdland and other clubs, sometimes with Bennett and Liza Minnelli in the audience. The following year, she played at Lin-

coln Center as well as the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

Her voice, a deep, woody contralto with a seen-it-all air, carried a hint of a rasp from her long love affair with cigarettes. The overall effect could be mesmerizing.

“To describe Andrade as both the Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald of bossa nova only goes so far in evoking a performer whose voice seems to contain the body and soul of Brazil,” Stephen Holden wrote when reviewing a 2008 New York club performance in the Times.

“You may think you know ‘The Girl From Ipanema,’” he continued, but “you haven’t really absorbed it until you’ve heard Ms. Andrade sing it in Portuguese; disgorge might be a better word than sing, since, like everything else she performs, it seems to well up from the center of the earth.”

For Andrade, singing brought sustenance. “My soul is everything I can offer the public,” she said in a 2013 interview with the Brazilian music site Esquina Musical. “When I open my mouth, any pain goes away. I sing without fear. My friends and enemies embrace me.”

“When I sing,” she added, “I embark on a magic carpet out of here. I travel to Mars.”

Leny de Andrade Lima was born in Rio on Jan. 26, 1943. Her father, Luiz de Oliveira Lima, and mother, Ruth Couto de Andrade, divorced when Leny was young. She grew up in Méier, a neighborhood in the city’s North Zone, a hotbed of samba.

At the urging of her mother, Andrade studied classical piano and singing starting at age 6. She earned a scholarship to the Brazilian Conservatory of Music. Beethoven and Brahms, however, were not her destiny.

She became entranced with bossa nova (“new wave” in Portuguese), which fused traditional Brazilian rhythms with American jazz, as it emerged from the beaches of Brazil in the late 1950s. She was also influenced by the samba stylings of popular Brazilian singer Dolores Durán.

“I showed my piano diploma to my mother,” she said in a 2013 interview on Brazilian television, and told her, “‘Forget about opera, classical music. I will sing popular music — because of Dolores Durán.’”

Her professional career began at 15, performing at dances with bandleader Perminio Goncalves, chaperoned by her stepfather, Gustavo Paulo da Silva, since she was still a minor.

She later sang with the Sérgio Mendes Trio, a jazz combo, before Mendes took his detour to international pop stardom with his band Brasil 66. “He said he hated samba; he didn’t play it,” Andrade told Esquina Musical. “And I said the same about jazz. But we ended up giving in and mixing the two.”

She came to embrace jazz and its improvisational wordless singing style known as scat. (In his 1983 Times review, Wilson praised her scatting “agility that approaches Ella Fitzgerald.”)

In 1961, Andrade released her first album, “A Sensação,” for RCA, moodily drawing from the samba of an earlier era. She hit her stride two years later, fusing bossa nova with traditional jazz on “A Arte Maior de Leny Andrade,” on Polydor.

She was married briefly when she was younger and never had children. Information about survivors was not immediately available.

As a jazz singer, Andrade never enjoyed roaring commercial success, but that fact did not disturb her. “I don’t make music for the masses,” she told Esquina Musical. “They don’t have the ability to understand my work. Bad stuff is not in my repertoire.”

Medical group backs youth gender treatments, but calls for research review

The American Academy of Pediatrics backed gender-related treatments for children late last week, reaffirming its position from 2018 on a medical approach that has since been banned in 19 states.

But the influential group of doctors also took an extra step of commissioning a systematic review of medical research on the treatments, following similar efforts in Europe that found uncertain evidence for their effectiveness in adolescents.

Critics across the political spectrum — including a small but vocal group of pediatricians — have been calling for a closer look at the evidence in recent years, particularly as the number of adolescents who identify as transgender has rapidly increased.

The treatments are relatively new, and few studies have tracked their longterm effects. Health bodies in England and Sweden have limited access to the treatments after carrying out systematic reviews, the gold standard for evaluating medical research.

“The board has confidence that the existing evidence is such that the current policy is appropriate,” said Mark Del Monte, the CEO of the AAP. “At the same time, the board recognized that additional detail would be helpful here.”

As for the policy changes in Europe, he said, “they engaged in their process, we’re engaging in our process.”

After completing the review, he said, the group will issue additional clinical guidance for doctors and likely update its recommendations.

All 16 board members of the AAP, which represents 67,000 pediatricians across the United States, voted to reaffirm the 2018 guidelines at a meeting Thursday in Itasca, Illinois. The vote comes at a time of intense political pressures on transgender people and the doctors who care for them.

Over the past two years, Republican lawmakers across the country have banned what’s known as gender-affirming care, which can include psychotherapy, puberty-blocking drugs, hormones and,

rarely, surgeries. Opponents of the care argue that it is experimental and children lack the maturity to consent to it.

The AAP has roundly condemned the legislative bans as a dangerous intrusion into complex medical decisions between doctors and families, and has filed amicus briefs to support the many legal challenges brought against the bans by civil rights groups.

Much of the academy’s support for gender-affirming care rests on its 2018 previous position statement, which said the treatments were essential and should be covered by health insurers. Transgender adolescents have high rates of anxiety, depression and suicide attempts, and early evidence suggested that gender-affirming care could improve their mental health.

Position statements like those voted on today remain valid for five years before they are up for review, at which point they may be reaffirmed, retired or revised in light of new evidence. One example of such a reversal is the academy’s 2017 endorsement of infant peanut consumption, based on a landmark study showing that early exposure could help prevent lethal allergies.

Some scientists criticized the decision to continue to recommend the treat-

ments for young people before completing a rigorous review.

The move is “very clearly putting the cart before the horse,” said Dr. Gordon Guyatt, a clinical public health researcher at McMaster University who helped develop the field of evidencebased medicine.

Based on previous systematic reviews, Guyatt said, the AAP’s report will most likely find low-quality evidence for pediatric gender care. “The policies of the Europeans are much more aligned with the evidence than are the Americans’,” he said.

In June, England’s National Health Service announced that it would restrict the use of puberty blockers to clinical trials because “there is not enough evidence to support their safety or clinical effectiveness as a routinely available treatment.” Last year, Sweden’s national health care oversight body similarly determined that, on the basis of its systematic review, “the risks of puberty-inhibiting and gender-affirming hormone treatment for those under 18 currently outweigh the possible benefits.”

In the United States, a small group of pediatricians has pushed for a similar review from the AAP, one of the few institutions with enough centralized power to

influence health care practices. Dr. Julia Mason, a pediatrician in Gresham, Oregon, co-founded a group called the Society for Evidence-Based Gender Medicine that has been highly critical of gender treatments for minors. Since 2020, she said, she has unsuccessfully lobbied the academy’s leadership to commission a systematic review.

Mason said she was pleased the group finally decided to take a close look at the data. “We are making strong recommendations based on weak evidence,” she said.

But Dr. Marci Bowers, a gynecologic and reconstructive surgeon and the president of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, was heartened by the AAP’s endorsement of the care, which she said profoundly improves many children’s lives.

“They know this population,” said Bowers, who is a transgender woman. “They know the stories. Anecdotally, it’s overwhelmingly positive.”

She also pointed out that doctors in many specialties, and particularly in pediatrics, routinely use medicines that haven’t yet been tested in large and rigorous clinical trials. And Europe, unlike many U.S. states, has not banned the care entirely.

“What they’re saying is this population needs to be studied,” she said, referring to European policies. “And I agree with that.”

Planning to visit Barcelona or Dubrovnik? It’s going to cost you.

When Hester Van Buren, a deputy mayor of Amsterdam, recently proposed a 1% increase in the city’s tourist accommodation tax — which is among the highest in Europe — her City Council colleagues responded with a single criticism: They wanted the increase to be even bigger.

“We have a lot of costs for the city, of course — for well-being, for livability,” Van Buren said in a recent interview at Amsterdam’s City Hall. “We don’t want to increase the taxes for our inhabitants. So we said, ‘Well, let the visitors pay some more.’ ”

Across Europe, many of Van Buren’s counterparts are having similar thoughts. After several years of steady growth in urban tourism leading up to the pandemic, many European cities have found new ways to tax visitors, who are at once an important source of revenue and — in some cases — a cause of headaches for residents.

And while there’s little evidence that tourist taxes do much to dampen visitor demand, the measures can raise significant funds for street cleaning, roadwork and other urban improvements that benefit visitors and locals alike.

Amid growing concerns about the negative impacts of tourist crowds, revenue generated from tourism taxes can help ensure that this important slice of many European economies maintains its social license to operate.

“The big question that’s on the mind of many local communities is ‘How can we capture the value of tourism?’ ” said Peter Rømer Hansen, a founding partner and chief strategist at Group NAO, a Copenhagen-based tourism consulting agency. “Back in the day, it used to be that tourism was tax-free. Now it’s like, ‘No it’s not — you should tax tourism to capture some of that value to add to the community.’ It’s a paradigm shift.”

The tourism ‘zeitgeist’

Tourism taxes are now widespread in Europe: Of the 30 nations surveyed in a 2020 report, of which Hansen was the lead author, 21 had taxes on tourist accommodations, usually in the range of .50 to 3 euros (about 55 cents to $3.30) per person per night. (In the United States, most states impose single-digit-percentage taxes on accommodations, but this varies widely — from zero tax on lodging

in Alaska and California to a 15% hotel tax in Connecticut.)

Nations in southern and western Europe, where tourism tends to represent a larger share of the national economies, are more likely to have tourism taxes, Hansen said. But he expects northern European countries will soon impose similar levies, driven by factors including the climate crisis, the post-pandemic tourism surge and a growing interest in making tourism work for local communities.

“It’s part of this zeitgeist that we need to be more conscious and take better care of our local environment,” Hansen said.

In line with that trend, some European destinations that have long imposed tourism taxes have begun to increase their rates or impose additional levies.

Last year, the Barcelona City Council began imposing a “city surcharge” on visitors, over and above the accommodation tax (from 1 to 3.50 euros per night), which the government of Catalonia established in 2012. Barcelona’s new charge — which applies both to tourist stays and cruise visitors — is scheduled to rise to 3.25 from 2.75 euros on April 1 next year, said Jordi Valls, the City Council’s deputy mayor for tourism. This year’s surcharge is expected to generate 52 million euros, money that will

years of steady growth in urban tourism, many European cities

found new ways to tax visitors, who are at once an important source of revenue and — in some cases — a cause of headaches for residents.

be set aside for spending on public spaces and environmental protection, and to pay for the enforcement of laws regulating tourist rentals, among other activities.

It’s a similar story in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik — which, according to one index, had the highest ratio of tourists to residents of any European city in 2019. Dubrovnik has long imposed an accommodation tax, which now stands at 2.65 euros per person per night from April through September, dropping to 1.86 euros the rest of the year. But in 2019, the government announced a tax on cruise ships as well, after what the city’s mayor, Mato Frankovic, called “a very hectic situation.”

“The question from many of our inhabitants was, ‘What do we get from those cruise ships? They are not paying anything to the city of Dubrovnik,’” Frankovic said, adding that the cruise tax, which took effect in 2021, is expected to raise 750,000 euros this year, funds that will be spent to improve roads in the city. The mayor described the cruise tax as “a win-win.”

“The cruise companies and the cruise guests know where the money they pay is actually invested,” Frankovic said, “and the citizens of Dubrovnik clearly see the benefit of the cruise business.”

Sharing the costs of running a city

In Amsterdam, where tourist taxes are expected to generate 185 million euros this year, such benefits are perhaps even more evident. The city imposes two taxes: an accommodation tax, which has been in place since 1973, as well as a cruise tax, which was introduced in 2019. (The City Council recently adopted a proposal to ban cruise ships from Amsterdam’s ports. However, the measure isn’t expected to take effect until next year, at the earliest.)

The funds raised from both taxes are used to improve

public spaces in parts of the city that attract few tourists, Van Buren said. In that way, she added, the tax ensures that people across Amsterdam enjoy the fruits of tourism.

Amsterdam’s accommodation tax now stands at 7% of the cost of accommodation for hotel stays, plus a flat fee of 3 euros per person per night. (Guests in short-term apartment rentals, which the city strictly regulates, pay a tax of 10% per night.) The City Council will meet in October to decide whether — and by how much — to increase the tax, which was most recently raised in 2018.

Van Buren believes there is support for an increase. She noted that Amsterdam residents paid 172 million euros just for trash collection and street cleaning last year, including in areas popular with tourists. It’s only fair, she said, to ask visitors to share the costs of keeping the city functioning.

She described the city’s tourism taxes as part of a package of measures intended to limit tourism growth in Amsterdam, which stopped marketing itself as a destination several years before the pandemic. But Van Buren acknowledged that the accommodation tax appeared to have only a slight dampening effect on visitor interest, a conclusion supported by Hansen’s 2020 report.

That doesn’t mean that taxes aren’t helping to shape tourism in the city. The extra charge of 3 euros per night was intended to ensure the measure would be felt by Amsterdam’s cheap hotels and the low-budget tourists who frequent them, Van Buren said, adding that such visitors, who often come for bachelor parties and the like, bring “a lot of problems.”

On that front, it seems the measure is having the desired effect. Henriette Zwart, owner of Hotel Koffiehuis Voyagers, a lower-budget accommodation option in Am-

sterdam’s historic center, said the tourist tax had forced her to renovate so she could charge enough to cover her operating costs. She used to charge 100 euros per night for a room that could sleep three or four people, but when her hotel reopens after renovations in October, she will charge 200 euros for a room that can sleep only two.

“We look at the prices in this area, and everybody’s got high prices like that,” Zwart said.

“They don’t want the low-value tourist. They want the upper-class tourists, which is pretty discriminative,” she said of the city leaders. “If you have a low-cost per person and a high tourist tax, then it’s almost not even motivating to run a business like that.”

More taxes coming

Other major European tourist destinations, including Edinburgh, are considering new visitor charges.

This year, Manchester became the first British city to adopt a visitor fee when local hotel owners collectively began to impose an additional charge of 1 pound (roughly $1.27) per person per night. British cities don’t have the power to create the kinds of taxes that Amsterdam and Barcelona have introduced, said Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, so businesses introduced the charge themselves, with the support of local government.

The resulting funds will be used to clean the streets, run targeted tourism campaigns and prepare bids for major events that will attract even more tourists to Manchester, said Craig, who added that tourism has become a major employer.

“We think about the role tourism has in our city — be it for football, culture or history — and actually we want to grow that,” Craig said.

It’s a different story in St. Ives, a picturesque English coastal town that has been attracting tourists for more than a century. But growing crowds of visitors have begun to strain the town’s services and the patience of its residents, Mayor Johnnie Wells said. Wells noted that St. Ives spends nearly one-fifth of its annual budget — about 200,000 pounds — just on cleaning the town’s eight public toilet facilities, which visitors use much more than locals.

Facing the same taxing constraints as Manchester, the local council has decided to charge visitors 40 pence to use the toilets. Local leaders are also considering a “community charge” similar to the visitor charge imposed in Manchester.

Wells stressed that tourism is a huge part of the economy of Cornwall, the southwestern English county that is home to St. Ives and dozens of other popular seaside communities. The area used to rely on mining and fishing, but as those industries have fallen away, tourism has become an increasingly important source of jobs and income.

“People always moan about the holiday industry, but it’s what we Cornish folk do,” Wells said, adding that residents’ frustration with tourists “is becoming an issue.” But he thinks a visitor charge, if they can pull it off, would be a positive step.

“If locals can feel that their town is being improved because the tourists are coming, it’s going to help bridge that gap and create a bit better feeling between the two,” he said.

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF PUERTO RICO CIELO VIVIENDA LLC

Plaintiff Vs. IVAN MUJICA DE LEON

IN HIS PERSONAL CAPACITY AND AS MEMBER OF THE ESTATE OF EVA MARGARITA CORTES VAZQUEZ

A/K/A EVA CORTES VAZQUEZ COMPOSED BY IVAN EMIL MUJICA CORTES AND I.I.M.C.; DEPARTAMENTO DE HACIENDA AND CENTRO DE RECUADACIONES DE IMPUESTOS MUNICIPALES

Defendants

Civil No.: 16-2367. (JAG). Re: COLLECTION OF MONIES, FORECLOSURE OF MORTGAGE. NOTICE OF SALE. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO, SS.

To: IVAN MUJICA DE LEON IN HIS PERSONAL CAPACITY AND AS MEMBER OF THE ESTATE OF EVA MARGARITA CORTES VAZQUEZ A/K/A EVA CORTES VAZQUEZ COMPOSED BY IVAN EMIL MUJICA CORTES AND I.I.M.C.; DEPARTAMENTO DE HACIENDA AND CENTRO DE RECUADACIONES DE IMPUESTOS MUNICIPALES, AND THE PUBLIC IN GENERAL:

Judgment in favor of plaintiff was entered for the sum of $396,127.51 in principal, which continue to accrue until full payment of debt at the rate of 3% per annum, accrued late charges and any other additional advance, charge, fee, or disbursements made by plaintiff, on behalf of defendants in accordance with the mortgage deed, plus costs, and ten (10) percent attorneys’ fees; Pursuant to the judgment, the undersigned Special Master was ordered to sell at public auction for United States currency in cash or certified check without appraisement or right of redemption to the highest bidder and at the office of the Clerk of the United States District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, Federico Degetau Federal Building, Chardón Street, Hato Rey, San Juan, Puerto Rico or

any other place designated by said Clerk, to cover the sums adjudged to be paid to the plaintiff, the following property: Physical address: SB-22 Paseo De Las Orquideas Primavera, Trujillo Alto. RUSTICA: Parcela de terreno identificada como solar veintidós (22) del bloque SB de la Urbanización Primavera, radicada en el barrio Dos bocas del termino municipal de Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico con una cabida de cuatrocientos dos punto veintiséis (402.26) metros cuadrados en lindes por el NORTE, en dieciséis punto cero cero (16.00) metros con la calle, numero tres (#3); por el SUR, en cuatro punto cincuenta y cuatro (4.54) metros doce punto noventa y tres (12.93) metros, con el solar numero veinte (20); por el ESTE, en veintiocho punto noventa y ocho (28.98) metros con el solar numero veintiuno (21); y por el OESTE, en veintitrés punto cero cero (23.00) metros, con el solar número veintitrés (23). Enclava una casa de concreto diseñada para una familia. Consta inscrita al folio 280 del tomo 527 de Trujillo Alto, finca número 26,675, Registro de la Propiedad, Sección Cuarta de San Juan. Potential bidders are advised to verify the extent of preferential liens with the holders thereof. It shall be understood that each bidder accepts as sufficient the title and that prior or preferential liens to the one being foreclosed upon, including but not limited to any property tax liens (express, tacit, implied or legal), or homeowner associations dues, to the extent specified under the applicable Condominium Law, shall continue in effect. It being understood that the successful bidder accepts them and is subrogated in the responsibility for the same and that the bid price shall not be applied toward their cancellation. The present property will be acquired free and clear of all junior liens. THEREFORE, the FIRST PUBLIC SALE shall be held on the AUGUST 18TH, 2023, AT 10:30 A.M., and the minimum bid that will be accepted is the sum of $404,706.83.

In the event said first public auction does not produce a bidder and the properties is not adjudicated, a SECOND PUBLIC AUCTION shall be held on the AUGUST 25TH, 2023, AT THE 10:30 A.M. and the minimum bid that will be accepted is the sum of $269,804.55 2/3 parts of the minimum bid for the 1st public sale. If said second auction does not result in the adjudication and sale of the property, a THIRD AUCTION will be held on the SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2023, AT THE

10:30 A.M. and the minimum bid that will be accepted is the sum of $202,353.42, ½ of the minimum bid for the 1st public sale. Upon confirmation of the sale, an order shall be issued canceling all junior liens. For further particulars, reference is made to the judgment entered by the Court in this case, which can be examined in the Office of the Clerk of the United States District Court, Federal Building, Chardon Avenue, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico. In San Juan, Puerto Rico, on July 7, 2023. AGUEDO DE LA TORRE, SPECIAL MASTER.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE BAYAMÓN FRANKLIN CREDIT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION COMO AGENTE DE SERVICIO DE WILMINGTON SAVINGS

FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS CERTIFICATE TRUSTEE OF BOSCO CREDIT II TRUST SERIES

2017-1

Parte Demandante Vs. JOEL OMAR RAMOS

MORALES, POR SÍ Y IVELISSE VARGAS ORTEGA, POR SÍ Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE BIENES GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: BY2021CV02523.

Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA POR LA VIA ORDI-

NARIA: “IN REM”. AVISO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL PUEBLO DE PUERTO RICO, SS Yo, el Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de BAYAMON: CERTIFICO Y HAGO CONS-

TAR: Que en cumplimiento con un MANDAMIENTO DE EJECUCIÓN DE SENTENCIA que me ha sido dirigido por el Secretario de este Tribunal en el caso arriba mencionado, venderé en pública subasta al mejor postor entre la parte demandante y aquellas personas que reúnan los requisitos y calificaciones de Ley, de contado y por moneda del cuño legal de los Estados Unidos de América, en efectivo, giro postal o cheque certificado a nombre del (de la) Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, todo derecho, título o interés que tenga

Monday, August 7, 2023 22

la parte demandada en la finca que se describe más adelante. LA SUBASTA se llevará a cabo en, sita oficina ALGUACIL DE SUBASTAS en el CUARTO PISO del TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, CENTRO JUDICIAL DE BAYAMÓN, el día 21 DE AGOSTO DE 2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA. El tipo mínimo para esta Primera subasta lo será la suma de $127,500.00. De no adjudicarse la propiedad en esa Primera Subasta, se celebrarán una SEGUNDA Y TERCERA SUBASTA, en las mismas oficinas de este Alguacil, respectivamente los días 28 DE AGOSTO DE 2023 Y 11 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023, TODAS A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA. Los tipos mínimos para dichas Segunda y Tercera Subastas lo serán, respectivamente las dos terceras partes y la mitad del tipo mínimo que se pactara para la Primera Subasta, o sea, las sumas de $85,000.00 y $63,750.00 respectivamente. La propiedad objeto de subasta se describe como sigue: Rústica: Solar número uno (1): Lote de terreno localizado en el Barrio Higuillar de Dorado, Puerto Rico compuesto de quinientos cuarenta y nueve punto seiscientos cuarenta y nueve (549.649) metros cuadrados, equivalentes a cero punto mil trescientos noventa y ocho (0.1398 9%) cuerdas. Colinda por el Norte, con el solar número cinco (5); por el Sur, con el solar número dos (2); por el Este, con Basilisa Marrero, viuda de López y por el Oeste, con terrenos de Juana Rojas. Inscrito al folio ciento noventa (190) del tomo doscientos treinta y seis (236) de Ágora de Dorado, finca once mil uno (11,001). Registro de la Propiedad de Bayamón, Sección Cuarta (IV). La dirección del inmueble es:

Lot 1, Rd 696 Km 0.2, Higuillar Wd., Dorado, PR 00646. Dichos remates se llevarán a efecto para con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante el importe de la Sentencia que ha obtenido ascendente a las sumas de: principal balance $102,353.76 por concepto de principal, más intereses al tipo pactado de 6.875% anual desde el 1 de mayo de 2020. Dichos intereses continuarán acumulándose hasta el pago total de la obligación. Además, la parte demandada adeuda a la parte demandante los cargos por demora equivalentes al 5% de la suma de aquellos pagos con atrasos en exceso de 15 días calendario de la fecha vencimiento; más la suma de $12,750.00 para costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más otros cargos, recargos, penalidades y créditos accesorios

según pactados. Cualquier título, derecho o interés que tenga la parte demandada en este caso en la propiedad anteriormente descrita se adjudicará al mejor postor entre la parte demandante y aquellas personas que refinan los requisitos y calificaciones de Ley. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento de ejecución de hipoteca por la vía ordinaria incoados en este caso, estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría de este Honorable Tribunal durante horas laborables. Se entiende que todo licitador que comparezca a la subasta señalada en este caso acepta como bastante la titulación que da base a la misma. Que la propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Se entiende que cualquier carga y/o gravamen anterior y/o preferente, si lo hubiere, al crédito que da base a esta ejecución continuará subsistente, entendiéndose, además, que el remanente los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. El monto de cada carga anterior que figura de la Certificación Registral sobre la finca objeto de esta ejecución, así como los nombres de sus titulares y fecha de vencimiento se detallan como sigue: NINGUNO. El monto de cada carga posterior que figura de la Certificación Registral sobre la finca objeto de esta ejecución, así como los nombres de sus titulares y fecha de vencimiento se detallan como sigue: AVISO DE DEMANDA: Dictado el 21 de agosto de 2015, en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Bayamón, Caso Civil #DCD152057, sobre Ejecución de Hipoteca, seguido por Scotiabank de P.R. versus Joel Omar Ramos Morales y Ivelisse Vargas Ortega, donde se solicita el pago de la deuda garantizada con la hipoteca de la inscripción 6ta, o la venta en pública subasta, reducida a $115,463.57. Anotado al tomo Karibe de Dorado el 20 de enero del 2021, finca #11,001, Anotación “A”. ANOTACION DE DEMANDA: De fecha 30 de junio de 2021, en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Bayamón, Caso Civil #BY2021CV02523, por concepto de Cobro de Dinero y ejecución de Hipoteca, seguido por Franklin Credit Management Corp. versus Joel Omar Ramos Morales, por sí y Ivelisse Vargas Ortega, por sí, y la Sociedad Legal de Gananciales compuesta por ambos, por la suma de $102,353.76, más intereses, etc. Anotado en Karibe de Dorado, finca #11,001, Anotación B y última, el 16 de

mayo de 2023. Por la presente se le notifica a los titulares de crédito y/o cargas registrales posteriores, que se celebrarán las Subastas en las fechas, horas y sitio anteriormente señalados, y se les invitan a que concurran a dichas subastas si les conviniese, o se les invita a satisfacer antes del remate, el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando entonces subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante, siempre y cuando refinan los requisitos y calificaciones de Ley y para que pueda efectuar tal subrogación. Y para su publicación en el tablón de edictos de este Tribunal y en dos lugares públicos del municipio en el cual se celebrarán las subastas señaladas, así como para la publicación en un periódico de circulación general diarias y en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico, por el término de por lo menos dos semanas con antelación a la fecha de la primera subasta y una vez por semana. Se hace constar que los abogados de la parte demandante son Igor J. Domínguez Law Offices, 1225 Avenida Ponce de León, Suite 1105, San Juan, PR 009073945, Teléfono (787) 250-0220, Fax. (787) 250-0295. EXPEDIDO el presente en BAYAMON, Puerto Rico, a 14 de junio de 2023. Edgardo Elías Vargas Santana, Alguacil Auxiliar Placa #193, Tribunal De Primera Instancia, Sala De Bayamón.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE MANATÍ

ESTRELLA HOMES II, LLC Parte Demandante V. MIGDALIA MALPICA ORTIZ, por si y como COMO MIEMBRO CONOCIDO DE LA SUCESION DE FAUSTINO PEÑA PIMIENTA; NORMA

PEÑA VALDIRIA, RAUL PEÑA VALDIRIA COMO

MIEMBROS CONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION DE FAUSTINO PEÑA PIMIENTA; FULANO DE TAL Y FILANA DE TAL COMO MIEMBROS

DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION DE FAUSTINO

PEÑA PIMIENTA Parte Demandada Civil Núm.: AR2022CV01253. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO, EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRIstaredictos@thesanjuandailystar.com

The San Juan Daily Star

CA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS. AVISO DE PÚBLICA SUBASTA. El que suscribe, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Manatí, hago saber a la parte demandada MIGDALIA MALPICA ORTIZ, por si y como COMO MIEMBRO CONOCIDO DE LA SUCESION DE FAUSTINO PEÑA PIMIENTA, NORMA PEÑA VALDIRIA, RAUL PEÑA VALDIRIA COMO MIEMBROS CONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION DE FAUSTINO PEÑA PIMIENTA, FULANO DE TAL Y FILANA DE TAL COMO MIEMBROS DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION DE FAUSTINO PEÑA PIMIENTA y al PÚBLICO EN GENERAL; que en cumplimiento del Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia expedido el 28 de abril de 2023, por la Secretaría del Tribunal, procederé a vender y venderé en pública subasta por el precio mínimo de $50,000.00 y al mejor postor, pagadero en efectivo, cheque de gerente o giro postal, a nombre del alguacil del tribunal, la propiedad que se describe a continuación: 76

PEDRO MUÑOZ ST., URB. LUCHETTI, MANATI, PR 00674, y que se describe de la siguiente manera: Urbana: Urbanización

Luchetti de Manatí. Solar: 16-F. Cabida: 300.15 Metros Cuadrados. Linderos: Norte, con el solar número 7, en una longitud de 13.05 metros lineales. Sur, con calle número 5, en una longitud de 13.05 metros lineales. Este, con el solar 15, en una longitud de 23.00 metros lineales. Oeste, con el solar número 17, en una longitud de 23.00 metros lineales. Contiene una casa de hormigón armado con techo del mismo material, que consta de sala, comedor, cocina, baño, 3 dormitorios y una balconeta. Finca 4071 inscrita al folio 46 del tomo 101 de Manatí, Registro de la Propiedad de Manatí. La finca antes descrita se encuentra afecta a los siguientes gravámenes:

(i) Hipoteca constituida por Faustino Peña Pimienta y su esposa Migdalia Malpica Ortiz, en garantía de un pagaré, aff#. 1835, a favor de Banco Santander PR, o a su orden, por $50,000.00 al 6 1/2%, vencedero el 1 de marzo del 2038, según Esc. #147 en Corozal a 7 de marzo del 2008 ante Carlos Omar González Davila, inscrita al folio 217 del tomo 617 de Manatí, finca #4071 inscripción 8va, Registro de la Propiedad de Manatí. En virtud de la Ley 216 del 2010. (ii) DEMANDA:

Radicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Arecibo, el 7 de Julio del 2022, en el Caso Civil #AR2022cv01253, sobre Cobro de Dinero y Eje-

cución de Hipoteca, seguido por Luna Residencial II, LLC vs Faustino Pena Pimienta y su esposa Migdalia Malpica Ortiz, donde se solicita el pago de la deuda garantizada con la hipoteca de la inscripción 8va., reducida a $41,323.21 o la venta en pública subasta, anotado al Sistema Karibe, finca #4071 de Manatí, el 5 de octubre del 2022, Anotación A, Registro de la Propiedad de Manatí. La hipoteca objeto de esta ejecución es la que ha quedado descrita en el inciso (i). Será celebrada la subasta para con el importe de la misma satisfacer la sentencia dicta el 16 de marzo de 2023, mediante la cual se condenó a la parte demandada pagar a la parte demandante la suma de $41,323.31 de principal, más los intereses acumulados desde el 1 de enero de 2020, los cuales continúan acumulándose a razón de 6.50% hasta el pago total de la obligación, más otros gastos, $5,000.00 de costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado, más cualquier otro desembolso que haya efectuado o efectúe la parte demandante durante la tramitación de este caso para otros adelantos de conformidad con el Contrato Hipotecario, incluyendo primas de seguro de hipoteca, prima de seguro de siniestro y cargos por demora. La PRIMERA SUBASTA será celebrada el día 23 DE AGOSTO DE 2023 A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en la oficina del Alguacil, sita en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Manatí, Puerto Rico. Servirá de tipo mínimo para la misma la cantidad de $50,000.00, sin admitirse oferta inferior. De no haber remate ni adjudicación, celebraré SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 30 DE AGOSTO DE 2023 A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar, en la que servirá como tipo mínimo, dos terceras (2/3) partes del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $33,333.33. Si no hubiese remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, celebraré TERCERA SUBASTA el día 6 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023 A LAS 11:00 DE LA MAÑANA en el mismo lugar en la que regirá como tipo mínimo, la mitad del precio pactado para la primera subasta, o sea, $25,000.00. El Alguacil que suscribe hizo constar que toda licitación deberá hacerse para pagar su importe en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América, de acuerdo con la Ley y de acuerdo con lo anunciado en este Aviso de Subasta. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento incoado estarán de manifiesto en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas labo-

rables. Se entiende que todo licitador que comparezca a la subasta señalada en este caso acepta como bastante la titulación que da base a la misma. Se entiende que cualquier carga y/o gravamen anterior y/o preferente, si la hubiere al crédito que da base a esta ejecución continuará subsistente, entendiéndose, además, que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción cualquier parte del remanente del precio de licitación. La propiedad a ser ejecutada se adquirirá libre de cargas y gravámenes posteriores. Por la presente se notifica a los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante o acreedores de cargas o derechos reales que los hubiesen pospuesto a la hipoteca ejecutada y las personas interesadas en, o con derecho a exigir el cumplimiento de instrumentos negociables garantizados hipotecariamente con posterioridad al crédito ejecutado, para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les convenga o satisfacer antes del remate el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante. Vendida o adjudicada la finca o derecho hipotecado y consignado el precio correspondiente, en esa misma fecha o fecha posterior, el alguacil que celebró la subasta procederá a otorgar la correspondiente escritura pública de traspaso en representación del dueño o titular de los bienes hipotecados, ante el notario que elija el adjudicatario o comprador, quien deberá abonar el importe de tal escritura. El alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial al nuevo dueño, si así se lo solicita dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la confirmación de la venta o adjudicación. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del deudor la ocupen. Y PARA CONOCIMIENTO DE LOS LICITADORES Y DEL PUBLICO EN GENERAL y para su publicación de acuerdo con la Ley, expido el presente Edicto bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal. En Manatí, Puerto Rico, hoy 5 de junio de 2023. WILFREDO RODRÍGUEZ CARRIÓN, ALGUACIL CONFIDENCIAL PLACA #135, TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA, SALA DE MANATÍ.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBU-

NAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA SUPERIOR DE CAGUAS

ORIENTAL BANK

Demandante Vs. SUCESIÓN DE ALBERTO GOMEZ FLORES

COMPUESTA POR

SUS HEREDEROS

CONOCIDOS OLGA

MARIA GOMEZ

MARTINEZ, JAVIER

A. GOMEZ, SAMIRA

GOMEZ Y DEREK

GOMEZ; FULANO DE TAL Y SUTANA DE TAL COMO HEREDEROS

DESCONOCIDOS Y/O PARTES CON INTERÉS EN DICHA SUCESIÓN

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CG2022CV04076.

Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA (IN REM). EDICTO ANUNCIANDO PRIMERA, SEGUNDA Y TERCERA SUBAS-

TA. El Alguacil que suscribe, funcionario del Tribunal de la Sala Superior de Caguas, Puerto Rico, por la presente anuncia y hace saber al público en general que en cumplimiento con la Sentencia dictada en este caso con fecha 20 de marzo de 2023, y según Orden y Mandamiento del 8 de junio de 2023 librado por este honorable Tribunal, procederé a vender en pública subasta al mejor postor, y por dinero en efectivo, cheque certificado o giro postal a nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal con todo título derecho y/o interés de la parte demandada sobre la propiedad que se describe a continuación: RÚSTICA: Solar rotulado “A” radicado en el Barrio Navarro del término municipal de Gurabo, Puerto Rico, con una cabida superficial de (0.596 cds) cero punto quinientos noventa y seis de cuerda, equivalentes a 2,344.068 metros cuadrados. En lindes por el NORTE, en 55.70 metros con terrenos del Dr. Blasini; por el SUR, en 26.01 metros con un camino municipal asfaltado y en 29.54 metros, con el solar ‘B’ propiedad de Jaime García Rodríguez; por el ESTE, en 23.77 metros con la propiedad de Cruz Mercado y 36.25 metros con el solar ‘B’ de Jaime García Rodríguez; y por el OESTE, en 65.79 metros con terrenos de Carmen Cruz. Casa para fines residenciales de concreto y bloques compuesta de tres dormitorios, sala, comedor, cocina, un baño y balcón, mide treinta pies de ancho por treinta pies de largo. FINCA NÚMERO: 8,137, inscrita al folio 260 del tomo 210 de Gurabo, sección II de Caguas. Dirección Física: BARRIO NAVARRO, SOLAR A (931 PR ST KM 3.4 INT LA PACHANGA), GURABO PR 00778. Se anuncia por medio de este edicto que la PRIMERA SUBASTA habrá de celebrarse el día 21 DE AGOSTO DE

2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA, en mi oficina sita en el edificio que ocupa el Tribunal Superior de Puerto Rico, Sala Superior de Caguas. Siendo ésta la primera subasta que se celebrará en este caso, será el precio mínimo aceptable como oferta en la Primera Subasta, eso es el tipo mínimo pactado en la Escritura de Hipoteca para la propiedad, la suma de $66,000.00. De no haber remanente o adjudicación en esta primera subasta por dicha suma mínima, se celebrará una SEGUNDA SUBASTA el día 28 DE AGOSTO DE 2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA, en el mismo lugar antes señalado en la cual el precio mínimo serán dos terceras (2/3) partes del tipo mínimo pactado en la escritura de hipoteca, la suma de $44,000.00. De no haber remanente o adjudicación en esta segunda subasta por el tipo mínimo indicado en el párrafo anterior, se celebrará una TERCERA SUBASTA en el mismo lugar antes señalado el día 5 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 9:15 DE LA MAÑANA, en la cual el tipo mínimo aceptable como oferta será la mitad (1/2) del precio mínimo pactado en la escritura de hipoteca, la suma de $33,000.00. Si se declare desierta la tercera subasta se adjudicará la finca a favor del acreedor por la totalidad de la cantidad adeudada si ésta es igual o menor que el monto del tipo mínimo de la tercera subasta, si el tribunal lo estima conveniente. Se abonará dicho monto a la cantidad adeudada si ésta es mayor. El Honorable Tribunal dictó Sentencia In Rem, declarando Con Lugar la demanda al incumplir la parte demandada con los términos del contrato hipotecario y ordenando la venta en pública subasta del inmueble antes descrito. A tenor con la Regla 51.3 (b) de Procedimiento Civil y el Artículo 99 de la Ley 210-2015, conocida como “Ley del Registro de la Propiedad Inmobiliaria del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico”, el tribunal ordenó que el Alguacil de este Tribunal luego de haberse efectuado la correspondiente publicación de edictos en un periódico de circulación general, proceda a vender en pública subasta al mejor postor la propiedad descrita en las Determinaciones de Hechos de la Sentencia y que del producto de dicha venta, proceda a pagar en primer término los gastos del Alguacil, en segundo término las costas y honorarios de abogados según concedidos en esta sentencia, en tercer término los intereses acumulados por esta sentencia, en cuarto término los recargos acumulados, en quinto cualquier suma antes indicada como sobregiro en la cuenta de reserva y en sexto término hasta la suma de $50,959.22, para cubrir el principal pendiente de

pago más los intereses acumulados hasta el día de la Venta Judicial, disponiéndose que si quedare algún remanente luego de pagarse las sumas antes mencionadas el mismo deberá ser depositado en la Secretaría del Tribunal para ser entregado a los demandados previa solicitud y orden del Tribunal. Se dispone que una vez celebrada la subasta y vendido el inmueble relacionado, el alguacil pondrá en posesión judicial a los nuevos dueños dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la celebración de la Subasta. Si transcurren los referidos veinte (20) días, el tribunal podrá ordenar, sin necesidad de ulterior procedimiento, que se lleve a efecto el desalojo o lanzamiento del ocupante u ocupantes de la finca o de todos los que por orden o tolerancia del demandado/deudor la ocupen. El Alguacil de este Tribunal efectuará el lanzamiento de los ocupantes de ser necesario. Si la subasta es adjudicada a un tercero y luego se deja sin efecto, el tercero a favor de quién se adjudicó la subasta solo tendrá derecho a la devolución del monto consignado más no tendrá derecho a entablar recurso o reclamo adicional alguno (judicial o extrajudicial) contra el demandante y/o el acreedor y/o inversionista, dueño pagaré y/o su abogado. Si se anula la venta, el comprador tendrá derecho a la devolución del depósito de la venta judicial menos los honorarios y costos incurridos en el proceso de venta judicial. No tendrá ningún otro recurso contra el acreedor hipotecario ejecutante ni la representación legal de éste. Por la presente, también se notifica e informa a Fulano de Tal y Sutano de Tal, personas desconocidas que puedan tener derechos en la propiedad o título objeto de este edicto. La Venta en Pública Subasta de la referida propiedad se verificará libre de toda carga y gravamen posterior que afecte la mencionada finca, a cuyo efecto se notifica y se hace saber la fecha, hora y sitio de la Primera, Segunda y Tercera Subasta, si eso fuera necesario, a los efectos de cualquier persona o personas con algún interés puedan comparecer a la celebración de dicha Subasta. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad y que las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes, si los hubiere, al crédito del ejecutante continuarán subsistentes. Se entenderá que el rematante los acepta y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Los autos y todos los documentos correspondientes al procedimiento del caso de epígrafe están disponibles en la Secretaría de este Tribunal durante horas laborables y para la

concurrencia de los licitadores expido el presente Edicto que se publicará en un periódico de circulación diaria en toda la Isla de Puerto Rico por espacio dos (2) semanas y por lo menos una vez por semana y se fijará, además, en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Alcaldía y la Colecturía de Rentas Internas del Municipio donde se celebrará la Subasta y en la Colecturía más cercana del lugar de la residencia de la parte demandada. EN TESTIMONIO DE LO CUAL, expido el presente que firmo y sello, hoy día 21 de julio de 2023. ALEJANDRO L. URBINA ROQUE, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR PLACA #997, SALA SUPERIOR DE CAGUAS.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAGUAS.

AWILDA MORALES RAMOS, NORMA MORALES RAMOS, JULIO MORALES RAMOS, ELADIO MORALES RAMOS, MILAGROS MORALES RAMOS PETICIONARIOS EX PARTE

CIVIL NUM: SL2023CV00175. SOBRE: EXPEDIENTE DE DOMINIO. EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE. UU. EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PR.

A: Todo el que tenga algún interés, o derecho real sobre el inmueble descrito en la Petición de Dominio del caso de epígrafe, sus causahabientes, herederos, cesionarios; a las personas ignoradas o desconocidas a quienes pueda perjudicar la inscripción que se solicita en la petición del caso de epígrafe y a toda persona que desee oponerse.

POR LA PRESENTE: Se les notifica que los peticionarios de epígrafe han presentado una Petición para que se declare probado su dominio sobre la propiedad abajo descrita y se ordene al Registro de la Propiedad que así lo inscriba a favor de ellos. “RUSTICA: Predio de terreno sito en el Barrio Quebrada del término municipal de San Lorenzo, Puerto Rico, compuesto de SEISCIENTOS OCHENTA Y DOS METROS CUADRADOS (682.00 m2) en lindes; por el NORTE con la Carretera estatal; por el SUR, con la Sucesión Rosado; por el ESTE, con un solar desocupado; por el OESTE, con la Sucesión Rosado. Sobre la misma enclava una vivienda.” Este Tribunal ordenó que se publique

la pretensión por tres (3) veces durante el término de veinte (20) días en un periódico de circulación general diaria, para que todas las personas arriba mencionadas y todas aquellas desconocidas a quienes pueda perjudicar la inscripción o deseen oponerse, puedan así hacerlo dentro del término de veinte (20) días a partir de la última publicación del presente edicto. Por tanto firmo expido la presente en Caguas, Puerto Rico, a 17 de julio de 2023. Lisilda Martienz Agosto, Secretaria. Arleen Hernandez Peluyera, Sec Auxiliadora del Tribunal I. ***

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE CAROLINA. Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC

DEMANDANTE V. Sucesión de Austria

Guerra Navarro, compuesta por Julio

Delgado Guerra; Manso! Delgado, Aida Delgado, Fulano de Tal y Sutano de Tal como posibles herederos nombres desconocidos; Centro de Recaudación de Ingresos Municipales; Estados Unidos de América

DEMANDADOS

CIVIL NÚM.: CA2023CV01338

SOBRE: Ejecución de Hipoteca In Rem. MANDAMIENTO DE INTERPELACION. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO. POR CUANTO: En el presente caso se ha dictado la siguiente Orden: “ORDEN DE INTERPELACION”. Vista la Demanda presentada por la parte demandante solicitando la interpelación judicial de la Sucesión de Austria Guerra Navarro, compuesta por Julio Delgado Guerra; Manso! Delgado, Aida Delgado, Fulano de Tal y Sutano de Tal como posibles herederos nombres desconocidos, conforme al Artículo 1578 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico edición de 2020. Se Ordena a los herederos de la Sucesión a que dentro del término legal de treinta (30) días contados a partir de la notificación de esta Orden, acepten o repudien la participación que les corresponda en la herencia del causante. Se le Apercibe a los herederos antes mencionados que: (a) de no expresarse dentro del término de treinta (30) días en torno a su aceptación o repudiación de la herencia; o (b) de no solicitar término adicional para ello dentro del término de treinta (30) días; la herencia se presumirá por aceptada, respondiendo con ello por las obligaciones,

por los legados y por las cargas hereditarias hasta el valor de los bienes hereditarios que recibe, según dispone el Artículo 1587 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico de 2020. NOTIFIQUESE.

Dada en Carolina, Puerto Rico, a 20 de Julio de 2023. DIANA CONDE RODRIGUEZ, JUEZ. POR TANTO, en vista de la Orden dictada, se libra este Mandamiento de Interpelación a ser diligenciado por la parte demandante sobre los herederos que componen la Sucesión de Austria Guerra Navarro. En Carolina, Puerto Rico, a 20 de julio de 2023. Lcda. Kanelly Zayas Robles, Sec Regional, Keila Garcia, SubSecretaria.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE BAYAMÓN ISLAND PORTFOLIO SERVICES, LLC, COMO AGENTE DE FAIRWAY ACQUISITIONS FUND, LLC

Demandante Vs. MARIBEL ADORNO ARROYO

Demandado

Civil Núm.: VA2022CV00194.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO ORDINARIO. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: MARIBEL ADORNO ARROYO - BO BAJURA, CARR 647, KM 0.3, VEGA ALTA, PR 00692. POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza y requiere para que conteste la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días siguientes a la publicación de este Edicto. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), la cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired. ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda o cualquier otro sin más citarle ni oírle, si el tribunal en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. El sistema SUMAC notificará copia a los abogados de la parte demandante, la Lcda. Natalie Bonaparte cuyas direcciones son: P.O. Box 71418 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-8518, teléfono (787) 993-3731 ala dirección natalie.bonaparte@

orf-law.com, edwin.serrano@ orf-law.com y a la dirección notificaciones@orf-law.com. EXTENDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA y el sello del Tribunal, en Bayamón, Puerto Rico, hoy día 12 de mayo de 2023. En Bayamón, Puerto Rico, el 12 de mayo de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. LUREIMY ALICEA GONZÁLEZ, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL. LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE CAROLINA

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST

2019-HB1

Demandante Vs. SUCESION HERMELINDA

PABON FERNANDEZ T/C/C HERMELINDA PABON COMPUESTA POR CARMEN S. PEREZ PABON, JOSE ANTONIO PEREZ PABON, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES PEREZ PABON, LUIS F. PEREZ PABON; JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE COMO POSIBLES HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS; ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA; CENTRO DE RECAUDACION DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES Demandados Civil Núm.: CA2022CV01312. Sobre: EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS, EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: LA PARTE DEMANDADA, AL (A LA) SECRETARIO(A) DE HACIENDA DE PUERTO RICO Y AL PÚBLICO

GENERAL: Certifico y Hago Constar: Que en cumplimiento con el Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que me ha sido dirigido por el (la) Secretario(a) del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de Carolina, en el caso de epígrafe, venderé en pública subasta y al mejor postor, por separado, de contado y por moneda de curso legal de los Estados Unidos de América y/o Giro Postal y Cheque Certificado, en mi oficina ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Carolina, el 7 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 1:45 DE LA TARDE, todo derecho

título, participación o interés que le corresponda a la parte demandada o cualquiera de ellos en el inmueble hipotecado objeto de ejecución que se describe a continuación: URBANA: Solar marcado con el numero I guión veintiuno (I-21), localizado en la calle número cuatro (4) del plano de inscripción de la Urbanización Estancias de Tierra Alta, radicado en el Barrio San Isidro del término municipal de Canóvanas, Puerto Rico, con una cabida de DOSCIENTOS CINCUENTA METROS CUADRADOS (250.00 M.C.); en lindes por el NORTE, con el solar número veinte (20), en veinte metros lineales; por el SUR, con el solar número veintidós (22), en veinte metros lineales; por el ESTE, con la calle número cuatro (4), en doce punto cinco metros lineales; por el OESTE, con la calle número dos (2), en doce punto setenta y cinco metros lineales, según plano con el solar numero dos (2). Enclava una casa. Inscrita al folio 1 de tomo 333 de Canóvanas, finca 14,284, Registro de la Propiedad de Carolina, Sección III. La Hipoteca Revertida consta inscrita al folio 146 del tomo 411 de Canóvanas, finca 14,284, Registro de la Propiedad de Carolina, Sección III, inscripción 3ª. Propiedad localizada en: ESTANCIAS DE TIERRA ALTA, I-21 CALLE 4, CANOVANAS, PUERTO RICO 00729. Según figuran en la certificación registral, la propiedad objeto de ejecución está gravada por las siguientes cargas anteriores o preferentes: Nombre del Titular: N/A. Suma de la Carga:

N/A. Fecha de Vencimiento:

N/A. Según figuran en la certificación registral, la propiedad objeto de ejecución está gravada por las siguientes cargas posteriores a la inscripción del crédito ejecutante: Nombre del Titular: Secretario de la Vivienda y Desarrollo Urbano. Suma de la Carga: $132,000.00. Fecha de Vencimiento: 14 de septiembre de 2090. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad de la propiedad y que todas las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito ejecutante antes descritos, si los hubiere, continuarán subsistentes. El rematante acepta dichas cargas y gravámenes anteriores, y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se establece como tipo de mínima subasta la suma de $132,000.00, según acordado entre las partes en el precio pactado en la escritura de hipoteca. De ser necesaria una SEGUNDA SUBASTA por declararse desierta la primera, la misma se celebrará en mi oficina, ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Carolina, el 14 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 1:45

DE LA TARDE, y se establece como mínima para dicha segunda subasta la suma de $88,000.00, 2/3 partes del tipo mínima establecido originalmente. Si tampoco se produce remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se establece como mínima para la TERCERA SUBASTA, la suma de $66,000.00, la mitad (1/2) del precio pactado y dicha subasta se celebrará en mi oficina, ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de Carolina, el 21 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023, A LAS 1:45 DE LA TARDE. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo para, con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante, el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor ascendente a la suma de $98,672.50 por concepto de principal, más la suma de $15,896.19 en intereses acumulados al 31 de agosto de 2022 y los cuales continúan acumulándose a razón de 5.060% anual hasta su total y completo pago; más la sumas de $5,686.99 en seguro hipotecario; $493.00 en seguro; $525.00 de tasaciones; $200.00 de inspecciones; $1,027.50 en honorarios de abogado; más la cantidad de 10% del pagare original en la suma de $13,200.00, para gastos, costas y honorarios de abogado, esta última habrá de devengar intereses al máximo del tipo legal fijado por la oficina del Comisionado de Instituciones Financieras aplicable a esta fecha, desde este mismo día hasta su total y completo saldo. La venta en pública subasta de la referida propiedad se verificará libre de toda carga o gravamen posterior que afecte la mencionada finca, a cuyo efecto se notifica y se hace saber la fecha, hora y sitio de la PRIMERA, SEGUNDA Y TERCERA SUBASTA, si esto fuera necesario, a los efectos de que cualquier persona o personas con algún interés puedan comparecer a la celebración de dicha subasta. Se notifica a todos los interesados que las actas y demás constancias del expediente de este caso están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables para ser examinadas por los (las) interesados (as). Y para su publicación en el periódico The San Juan Daily Star, que es un diario de circulación general en la isla de Puerto Rico, por espacio de dos semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones, así como para su publicación en los sitios públicos de Puerto Rico. Expedido en Carolina, Puerto Rico, hoy 31 de julio de 2023. JOSÉ R. CRISTÓBAL ORTIZ, ALGUACIL REGIONAL. GRETCHEN

M. JEREZ SEDA, ALGUACIL PLACA #568.

to Rico TRIBUNAL GENERAL DE JUSTICIA Tribunal de Primera Instancia Sala Superior de MAYAGÜEZ.

FINANCE OF AMERICA

REVERSE LLC

Demandante v.

SUCESION FRANCISCO

EDGARDO GARCIA

PRINCIPE TCC FRANCISCO E.

GARCIA PRINCIPE

TCC FRANCISCO E.

GARCIA-PRINCIPE TCC

FRANCISCO EDGARDO

GARCIA TCC FRANCISCO

GARCIA PRINCIPE TCC

FRANCISCO E. GARCIA

TCC FRANCISCO GARCIA

COMPUESTA POR JOHN

DOE Y JANE DOE COMO

POSIBLES HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS, CENTRO DE RECAUDACION DE INGRESOS

MUNICIPALES, ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA

Demandado(a)

Civil: MZ2022CV01715. Sobre: EJECUCION DE HIPOTECA. NOTIFICACIÓN DE SENTENCIA POR EDICTO.

A: JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE COMO

POSIBLES HEREDEROS DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESION

FRANCISCO EDGARDO

GARCIA PRINCIPE

TCC FRANCISCO E.

GARCIA PRINCIPE

TCC FRANCISCO E.

GARCIA-PRINCIPE TCC

FRANCISCO EDGARDO

GARCIA TCC FRANCISCO

GARCIA PRINCIPE TCC

FRANCISCO E. GARCIA

TCC FRANCISCO GARCIA

(Nombre de las parles a las que se le notifican la sentencia por edicto)

notificación ha sido archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 31 de julio de 2023. En Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, el 31 de julio de 2023. LCDA. NORMA G. SANTANA IRIZARRY, Secretaria. f/Nilda Torres Acevedo, Secretario(a) Auxiliar.

LEGAL NOTICE

SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN CONDOMINIO BAHIA PROPERTIES, LLC

Demandante V. JACQUELINE ALVAREZ ABREU, SU ESPOSO FULANO DE TAL Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS DE DINERO VIA ORDINARIA

Demandado

CIVIL NUM: SJ2023CV04302.

SOBRE: COBRO DE DINERO VIA ORDINARIA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA EL PRESIDENTE bELOS EEUU. DE AMERICA EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO.

A: JACQUELINE ALVAREZ ABREU, SU ESPOSO FULANO DETAL Y LA SOCIEDAD LEGAL DE GANANCIALES COMPUESTA POR

AMBOS

Quedan emplazados y notificados que en este Tribunal se ha radicado Demanda sobre cobro de dinero por la vía ordinaria en la que se alega que la parte demandada JACQUELINE

su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del tribunal, se le anotará la rebeldía y se dictará Sentencia concediendo el remedio así solicitado sin más citarles ni oírles. La abogada de la parte demandante es la Lcda. Evelian Del Rocío Suárez Rodríguez, cuya dirección física y postal es: Cond. El Centro I, Suite 801, 500 Muñoz Rivera Ave., San Juan, Puerto Rico 00918; cuyo número de teléfono es (787) 946-5268, y su correo electrónico es: eveliancbellverlaw.com. Expedido bajo mi firma y sello de este Tribunal, en San Juan, , Puerto Rico, hoy 1 de agosto de 2023. Griselda Rodriguez Collado, Secretaria. Carla J Rivera Climent, SubSecretaria.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE SAN JUAN.

CASCADE FUNDING MORTGAGE TRUST HB2

de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, el 5 de septiembre de 2023 a las 10:30am, todo derecho título, participación o interés que le corresponda a la parte demandada o cualquiera de ellos en el inmueble hipotecado objeto de ejecución que se describe a continuación:

Estado

EL SECRETARIO(A) que suscribe le notifica a usted que 11 de julio de 2023, este Tribunal ha dictado Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución en este caso, que ha sido debidamente registrada y archivada en autos donde podrá usted enterarse detalladamente de los términos de la misma. Esta notificación se publicará una sola vez en un periódico de circulación general en la Isla de Pue,r:to Rico, de los 10 días siguientes a su notificación. Y, siendo o representando usted una parte en el procedimiento sujeta a los términos de la Sentencia, Sentencia Parcial o Resolución, de la cual puede establecerse recurso de revisión o apelación dentro del término de 30 días contados a partir de la publicación por edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considerará hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta

ALVAREZ ABREU, su esposo FULANO DE TAL y la sociedad legal de gananciales compuesta por ambos, le adeudan solidariamente a Condominio Bahía Properties, LLC., la suma total de $14,125.55 correspondiente a las cuotas de mantenimiento del apto 213, por concepto de gastos comunes de mantenimiento adeudados a la fecha de la presentación de la demanda, más las sumas que se acumulen por concepto de mensualidades de gastos comunes, intereses, penalidades, gastos de mantenimientos y recargos de los meses subsiguientes, más las costas, gastos y honorarios de abogado. Se les advierte que este edicto se publicará en un periódico de circulación general una sola vez y que, si no comparecen a contestar dicha Demanda dentro del término de treinta (30) días a partir de la publicación del Edicto, a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC). al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberá presentar

Demandante, v. LA SUCESIÓN DE MARTA ANTONIA RAMIREZ PABÓN, también conocida como MARTA A. RAMIREZ PABÓN, como MARTA RAMIREZ PABÓN, como MARTA ANTONIA RAMIREZ, como MARTA A. RAMIREZ y como MARTA RAMIREZ compuesta por ADA IRIS VERA RAMIREZ; MARTA ESTHER VERA RAMIREZ; y EDUARDO ARIEL VERA RAMIREZ; CENTRO DE RECAUDACIÓN DE INGRESOS MUNICIPALES (CRIM) y ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, Demandados CIVIL NUM. SJ2022CV05528.

SOBRE: EJECUCION DE HIPOTECA POR LA VIA ORDINARIA. EDICTO DE SUBASTA. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMERICA EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO. SS.

A: La Parte Demandada, al (a la) Secretario(a) de Hacienda de Puerto Rico y al Público General: Certifico y Hago Constar: Que en cumplimiento con el Mandamiento de Ejecución de Sentencia que me ha sido dirigido por el (la) Secretario(a) del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior de San Juan, en el caso de epígrafe procederá a vender en pública subasta al mejor postor en efectivo, cheque gerente, giro postal, cheque certificado en moneda legal de los Estados Unidos de América al nombre del Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, en mi oficina ubicada en el Tribunal

URBANA: Propiedad Horizontal: Family Unit E-10 of Los Olmos Condominium of El Cinco Ward, Río Piedras San Juan, Puerto Rico, which family unit is located on the tenth floor and its main entrance door faces south and has access to that common corridor on that level. It is a rectangular shaped apartment measuring forty feet nine inches equivalent to twelve point fortytwo meters long and twentyfour feet two inches, equivalent to seven point thirty-seven meters wide, making a total area of nine hundred, eight four points ninety-three square feet equivalent to ninety-one-point fifty square meters. Its boundaries area as follows: NORTH, forty feet nine inches equivalent to twelve point forty-two meters with exterior of window wall that overlook the rear yard; SOUTH, forty feet nine inches, equivalent to twelve point forty-two meters with exterior of window interior half of walls and door that separate it from common corridor; EAST, twenty-four feet two inches equivalent to seven point thirty-seven meters, with common bearing wall that separates it from restricted common water meter room and family unit F; WEST, twenty four feet two inches, equivalent to seven point thirty seven meters with common bearing wall and windows that separate it from the exterior court and common corridor. Consta inscrita al folio 197 del tomo 79 de Monacillos Este y El Cinco, finca número 2,593, Registro de la Propiedad de Puerto Rico, Sección Quinta de San Juan. Propiedad localizada en: #36 Nevarez St., Los Olmos Cond Apt E-10, San Juan, PR 00927. Según figuran en la certificación registral, la propiedad objeto de ejecución está gravada por las siguientes cargas posteriores a la inscripción del crédito ejecutante: Reverse Mortgage securing a note in favor of Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, or its order, in the original principal amount of $196,500.00, plus 5.060% annual interest, due on December 11, 2088, pursuant to deed number 722, issued in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on December 5, 2012, before notary Laura Mía González Bonilla, and recorded at page 76 of volume 317 of Monacillos Este y El Cinco, property number 2,593, 12th inscription. Se entenderá que todo licitador acepta como bastante la titularidad de la propiedad y que todas las cargas y gravámenes anteriores y los preferentes al crédito ejecutante antes descritos, si

los hubiere, continuarán subsistentes. El rematante acepta dichas cargas y gravámenes anteriores, y queda subrogado en la responsabilidad de los mismos, sin destinarse a su extinción el precio del remate. Se establece como tipo mínimo de subasta la suma de $196,500.00, según acordado entre las partes en el precio pactado en la escritura de hipoteca. De ser necesaria una segunda subasta por declararse desierta la primera, la misma se celebrará en mi oficina, ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, el 12 de septiembre de 2023 a las 10:30am, y se establece como mínima para dicha segunda subasta la suma de $131,000.00, 2/3 partes del tipo mínimo establecido originalmente. Si tampoco se produce remate ni adjudicación en la segunda subasta, se establece como mínima para la tercera subasta, la suma de $98,250.00, la mitad (1/2) del precio pactado y dicha subasta se celebrará en mi oficina, ubicada en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala de San Juan, el 19 de septiembre de 2023 a las 10:30am. Dicha subasta se llevará a cabo para, con su producto satisfacer a la parte demandante, el importe de la Sentencia dictada a su favor ascendente a la suma de $88,823.00 de principal, intereses al tipo del 5.060% anual hasta el pago de la deuda en su totalidad, más la suma de $19,650.00 por concepto de honorarios de abogado y costas autorizadas por el Tribunal, más las cantidades que se adeudan mensualmente por concepto de seguro hipotecario, cargos por demora, y otros adeudados que se hagan en virtud de la escritura de hipoteca. La venta en pública subasta de la referida propiedad se verificará libre de toda carga o gravamen posterior que afecte la mencionada finca, a cuyo efecto se notifica y se hace saber la fecha, hora y sitio de la PRIMERA, SEGUNDA Y TERCERA SUBASTA, si esto fuera necesario, a los efectos de que cualquier persona o personas con algún interés puedan comparecer a la celebración de dicha subasta. Se notifica a todos los interesados que las actas y demás constancias del expediente de este caso están disponibles en la Secretaría del Tribunal durante horas laborables para ser examinadas por los (las) interesados (as). Y para su publicación en el periódico The San Juan Daily Star, que es un diario de circulación general en la isla de Puerto Rico, por espacio de dos semanas consecutivas con un intervalo de por lo menos siete (7) días entre ambas publicaciones, así como para su publicación en los sitios públicos de Puerto Rico. Expedido en San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 1

de agosto de 2023. EDWIN E. LOPEZ MULERO, ALGUACIL AUXILIAR, ALGUACIL DE SUBASTAS TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA CENTRO JUDICIAL DE SAN JUAN SALA SUPERIOR.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE SAN JUAN R.O.I CAPTITAL OF P.R., INC

Demandante V. LIDA ESTELA RUAÑO RAMIREZ

Demandada

Civil Núm.: KCD2013-1565. (508). Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCION DE HIPOTECA. AVISO DE VENTA EN PÚBLICA SUBASTA.

A: LIDA ESTELA RUAÑO RAMIREZ: Y AL PUBLICO EN GENERAL:

El que suscribe, Alguacil del Tribunal de Primera Instancia, Sala Superior, Centro Judicial de San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico, hago saber a la parte demandada, y al PUBLICO EN GENERAL: y a todos los acreedores que tengan inscritos o anotados sus derechos sobre los bienes hipotecados con posterioridad a la inscripción del crédito del ejecutante, o de los acreedores de cargas o derechos reales que los hubiesen pospuesto a la hipoteca ejecutada y las personas interesadas en, o con derecho a exigir el cumplimiento de instrumentos negociables garantizados hipotecariamente con posterioridad al crédito ejecutado, siempre que surjan de la certificación registral, para que puedan concurrir a la subasta si les convenga o satisfacer antes del remate el importe del crédito, de sus intereses, costas y honorarios de abogados asegurados, quedando entonces subrogados en los derechos del acreedor ejecutante a saber: Arrendamiento a favor de Hilton International of Puerto Rico Inc., por el termino de 10 años, comenzando el 21 de julio de 2005 hasta el 31 de julio de 2015, según consta de la escritura #50, otorgada en San Juan, el 22 de julio de 2005, ante el Notario Jorge A. Rivera Febres, inscrito en Karibe de Puerta Tierra, Finca 3,326 y finca 3,328, inscripción 3era.

ANOTACION DE SENTENCIA:

A Cuyo favor aparece una anotación de Sentencia, en el Tribunal de Primera Instancia Centro de San Juan, caso civil #SJ2018CV08169 Asociación de Propietarios de Condado Lagoon Villas I Versus Lida Estela Ruaño, por $103,630.06 por concepto de cuotas de mantenimiento y otras sumas, instancia expedida el 18 de noviembre de 2002, suscrita ante el Notario Rafael A. Ojeda Diez, anotado en Karibe de Puerta

a partir de la Publicación por Edicto de esta notificación, dirijo a usted esta notificación que se considera hecha en la fecha de la publicación de este edicto. Copia de esta notificación ha sido Archivada en los autos de este caso, con fecha de 29 de junio de 2023. En Fajardo, Puerto Rico, a 29 de junio de 2023. LCDA. LAURA I. SANTA SÁNCHEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. NÉLIDA OCASIÓN ORTEGA, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR DEL TRIBUNAL I.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA DE CAROLINA MWPR, LLC

Demandante, V. MARIA STELLA RESTREPO POSADA Y OTROS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CA2023CV01774.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA.

EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: MARIA STELLA

RESTREPO DE TORRES

T/C/C MARIA STELLA

RESTREPO POSADA POR SI Y COMO MIEMBRO DE LA SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS ENRIQUE TORRES GUZMAN EN SU CUOTA VIUDAL USUFRUCTUARIA.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac2018/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La información de los abogados de la parte demandante es la siguiente:

Atención: Lcdo. Francisco

Fernández Chiqués

FERNANDEZ CHIQUES, LLC

PO Box 9749

San Juan, PR 00908

Tel. (787) 722-3040 /

Fax (787) 722-3317

ffc@ffclaw.com

POR LA PRESENTE, además, se le interpela judicialmente conforme al Art. 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico (31 L.P.R.A. §2787), para que en un término de treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento, acepte o renuncie mediante instrumento público o comparecencia judicial especial la herencia del causante de Carlos Enrique Torres Guzman, apercibiéndosele que de no expresarse dentro de dicho término, se tendrá por aceptada la herencia. B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005).

EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y SELLO DE ESTE TRIBUNAL.

En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de agosto de 2023.

LCDA. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILA GARCÍA SOLÍS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE CAROLINA

MWPR, LLC

Demandante, V. MARIA STELLA RESTREPO POSADA Y OTROS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CA2023CV01774.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: JOHN DOE Y JANE DOE COMO

POSIBLES MIEMBROS

DESCONOCIDOS DE LA SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS ENRIQUE TORRES

GUZMAN.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac2018/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio.

Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La información de los abogados de la parte de-

mandante es la siguiente:

Atención: Lcdo.

PO Box 9749

San Juan, PR 00908

Tel. (787) 722-3040 / Fax (787) 722-3317 ffc@ffclaw.com

LLC

POR LA PRESENTE, además, se le interpela judicialmente conforme al Art. 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico (31

L.P.R.A. §2787), para que en un término de treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento, acepte o renuncie mediante instrumento público o comparecencia judicial especial la herencia del causante de Carlos Enrique Torres Guzman, apercibiéndosele que de no expresarse dentro de dicho término, se tendrá por aceptada la herencia. B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005).

EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y SELLO DE ESTE TRIBUNAL.

En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de agosto de 2023.

LCDA. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILA GARCÍA SOLÍS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA

SALA DE CAROLINA

MWPR, LLC

Demandante, V. MARIA STELLA

RESTREPO POSADA Y OTROS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CA2023CV01774.

Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA.

EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: KENIA TORRES

COMO MIEMBRO DE LA SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS ENRIQUE TORRES GUZMAN.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema

Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac2018/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la

demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La información de los abogados de la parte demandante es la siguiente: Atención: Lcdo. Francisco Fernández Chiqués FERNANDEZ CHIQUES, LLC PO Box 9749 San Juan, PR 00908 Tel. (787) 722-3040 / Fax (787) 722-3317 ffc@ffclaw.com

POR LA PRESENTE, además, se le interpela judicialmente conforme al Art. 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico (31 L.P.R.A. §2787), para que en un término de treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento, acepte o renuncie mediante instrumento público o comparecencia judicial especial la herencia del causante de Carlos Enrique Torres Guzman, apercibiéndosele que de no expresarse dentro de dicho término, se tendrá por aceptada la herencia. B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005). EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y SELLO DE ESTE TRIBUNAL.

En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de agosto de 2023. LCDA. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILA GARCÍA SOLÍS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE CAROLINA

MWPR, LLC

Demandante, V. MARIA STELLA RESTREPO POSADA Y OTROS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CA2023CV01774. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: SELENA TORRES COMO MIEMBRO DE LA SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS ENRIQUE TORRES GUZMAN. POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac2018/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su

alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La información de los abogados de la parte demandante es la siguiente:

Atención: Lcdo. Francisco Fernández Chiqués FERNANDEZ CHIQUES, LLC PO Box 9749 San Juan, PR 00908

Tel. (787) 722-3040 / Fax (787) 722-3317 ffc@ffclaw.com

POR LA PRESENTE, además, se le interpela judicialmente conforme al Art. 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico (31 L.P.R.A. §2787), para que en un término de treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento, acepte o renuncie mediante instrumento público o comparecencia judicial especial la herencia del causante de Carlos Enrique Torres Guzman, apercibiéndosele que de no expresarse dentro de dicho término, se tendrá por aceptada la herencia. B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005). EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y SELLO DE ESTE TRIBUNAL. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de agosto de 2023. LCDA. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILA GARCÍA SOLÍS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE CAROLINA MWPR, LLC

Demandante, V. MARIA STELLA RESTREPO POSADA Y OTROS

Demandados Civil Núm.: CA2023CV01774. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: GLORIA TORRES RESTREPO COMO MIEMBRO DE LA SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS ENRIQUE TORRES GUZMAN.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de los treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Adminis-

tración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac2018/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La información de los abogados de la parte demandante es la siguiente: Atención: Lcdo. Francisco

Fernández Chiqués FERNANDEZ CHIQUES, LLC PO Box 9749

San Juan, PR 00908

Tel. (787) 722-3040 / Fax (787) 722-3317 ffc@ffclaw.com

POR LA PRESENTE, además, se le interpela judicialmente conforme al Art. 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico (31 L.P.R.A. §2787), para que en un término de treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento, acepte o renuncie mediante instrumento público o comparecencia judicial especial la herencia del causante de Carlos Enrique Torres Guzman, apercibiéndosele que de no expresarse dentro de dicho término, se tendrá por aceptada la herencia. B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005).

EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y SELLO DE ESTE TRIBUNAL.

En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de agosto de 2023. LCDA. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILA GARCÍA SOLÍS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA DE CAROLINA

MWPR, LLC

Demandante, V. MARIA STELLA RESTREPO POSADA Y OTROS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: CA2023CV01774. Sobre: COBRO DE DINERO Y EJECUCIÓN DE HIPOTECA. EMPLAZAMIENTO POR EDICTO E INTERPELACIÓN. LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE P.R., SS.

A: LOURDES TORRES RESTREPO COMO MIEMBRO DE LA SUCESIÓN DE CARLOS ENRIQUE TORRES GUZMAN.

POR LA PRESENTE se le emplaza para que presente al tribunal su alegación responsiva a la demanda dentro de

los treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento. Usted deberá presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial. pr/sumac2018/, salvo que se represente por derecho propio. Si usted deja de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. La información de los abogados de la parte demandante es la siguiente:

Atención: Lcdo. Francisco Fernández Chiqués

FERNANDEZ CHIQUES, LLC

PO Box 9749 San Juan, PR 00908 Tel. (787) 722-3040 / Fax (787) 722-3317 ffc@ffclaw.com

POR LA PRESENTE, además, se le interpela judicialmente conforme al Art. 959 del Código Civil de Puerto Rico (31 L.P.R.A. §2787), para que en un término de treinta (30) días de haber sido diligenciado este emplazamiento, excluyéndose el día del diligenciamiento, acepte o renuncie mediante instrumento público o comparecencia judicial especial la herencia del causante de Carlos Enrique Torres Guzman, apercibiéndosele que de no expresarse dentro de dicho término, se tendrá por aceptada la herencia. B.B.V.A. v. Latinoamericana, 164 D.P.R. 689 (2005). EXPEDIDO BAJO MI FIRMA Y SELLO DE ESTE TRIBUNAL. En San Juan, Puerto Rico, hoy día 01 de agosto de 2023. LCDA. KANELLY ZAYAS ROBLES, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. KEILA GARCÍA SOLÍS, SECRETARIA DE SERVICIOS A SALA.

LEGAL NOTICE

ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO TRIBUNAL DE PRIMERA INSTANCIA SALA SUPERIOR DE ARECIBO

GLADYS ESTHER AMADOR CORREA, ET ALS

Demandante Vs. LA SUCESIÓN DE ROSALIA AMADOR MENA, ET ALS

Demandados

Civil Núm.: AR2023CV00996. Sala: 402. Sobre: DIVISIÓN DE COMUNIDAD. EDICTO DE EMPLAZAMIENTO. ESTADOS UNIDOS DE AMÉRICA, EL PRESIDENTE DE LOS EE.

UU., EL ESTADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO, SS.

A: Sr. Felipe Amador

Mena, 3631 North Campbell Ave. Chicago, Illinois 60618; Sr. Francisco Amador Jr. t/c/p Francisco Amador Bigham, 425 Timber Ridge, Quincy, IL 62305; Sra. Wanda Amador t/c/p Wanda Amador Bigham, 7108 Timber Ridge, Quincy, IL 62305; Sr. Alfredo Rodriguez Amador, 7349 Rush CT, Orlando, FL 32818; Sra. Taimara Cristina Cosme Mercado, se desconoce su paradero y su dirección. Sr. Rosendo Rodríguez Amador, se desconoce su paradero y su dirección. Sr. Víctor David Amador t/c/p Victor David Amador Bigham, se desconoce su paradero y su dirección; Sr. Victor David Amador Gonzalez, se desconoce su paradero y su dirección; Sra. Mary Ann Amador t/c/p Mary Ann Amador Bigham, se desconoce su paradero y su dirección; Sra. Maria Luz Mercado Amador, se desconoce su paradero y su dirección. POR LA PRESENTE se les emplaza y requiere a ustedes, demandados en este caso, para que le notifiquen a la Lcda. Bruseiny Seise Negrón, abogada de la parte demandante a su dirección postal: 1300 Carr. 2, Suite 10, Barceloneta, PR 00617-3335, teléfono: 787449-2700, correo electrónico lcdaseise@gmail.com, copia de su contestación a la demanda interpuesta contra ustedes en el caso de epígrafe dentro de los próximos treinta (30) días de haberse publicado este edicto. Ustedes deberán presentar su alegación responsiva a través del Sistema Unificado de Manejo y Administración de Casos (SUMAC), al cual puede acceder utilizando la siguiente dirección electrónica: https://unired.ramajudicial.pr, salvo que se representen por derecho propio, en cuyo caso deberán presentar su alegación responsiva en la secretaría del Tribunal. Si ustedes dejan de presentar su alegación responsiva dentro del referido término, el Tribunal podrá dictar sentencia en rebeldía en su contra y conceder el remedio solicitado en la demanda, o cualquier otro, si el Tribunal, en el ejercicio de su sana discreción, lo entiende procedente. En Arecibo, Puerto Rico, hoy 31 de julio de 2023. VIVIAN Y. FRESSE GONZÁLEZ, SECRETARIA REGIONAL. ALEXANDRA ÁLVAREZ NATAL, SECRETARIA AUXILIAR.

By thinnest margin possible, Sweden eliminates US on penalties

Even the replay required a second look, so slim was the margin that separated the United States from elimination at the Women’s World Cup on Sunday.

But there it was, if you squinted: years of work, weeks of games and almost three hours of world-class soccer reduced to a single computer-generated image, the ball microscopically over the goal line, and the United States fully, and unequivocally, out of the World Cup.

“We just lost the World Cup by a millimeter,” goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher said. “That’s tough.”

The decision was a stunning end in every possible way. That it gave Sweden a victory in a penalty shootout and a berth in the quarterfinals against Japan almost felt like an afterthought, though surely not to the Swedes.

Yet as they raced off into the corner, delirious in victory, there was so much else to process: soccer’s newfound reliance on technology and video review; the elimination of the United States, the two-time reigning champion ejected from its customary place at the peak of its sport; and the exit from the World Cup, for the final time, of U.S. star Megan Rapinoe, the athlete and activist who had hoped to go out a three-time champion but will instead fly home ruing her own missed penalty kick, a cruel twist of fate she labeled “a sick joke.”

The defeat may one day be seen as a watershed moment for women’s soccer, the moment when the United States, the most successful and most decorated team in the sport’s history, surrendered its decades of primacy once and for all. Close watchers of the sport have seen that moment coming for a while. Investments in Europe especially but elsewhere, too, have been narrowing that gap for years. Rising powers such as Spain, England and the Netherlands — but also older ones such as Sweden and Germany — no longer shudder at the sight of the Americans on the other side.

New challengers are emerging wherever one looks. Even if it loses Tuesday, Jamaica will have advanced at least as far as the United States this year, as will three African teams, including Morocco, which played its first game in the tournament only last month.

That growth will only continue, while the United States navigates an awkward transition between a past of stars such as Rapinoe and Alex Morgan and a future studded with talent but short on experience, tradition and championship pedigree. No U.S. team had ever failed to make at least the semifinals until Sunday. And for a few hours in the cold Melbourne night, it appeared the current team might yet

make a championship run once again.

For hours, the United States and Sweden had circled each other like prizefighters painting a World Cup classic. They had pushed and shoved, taken shots and saved them, tested their nerve to the limit. And then, after two halves and two extra periods with no goals, they went to a penalty shootout to decide a winner. Yet they still could not be separated until the final shot gave Sweden a 5-4 edge on penalties.

Shot followed shot, save was matched by save, miss was followed by miss. And then Kelley O’Hara, the seventh American to step up to the spot, hit the right post with her attempt, and Lina Hurtig, the seventh Swede, sent hers low and hard to Naeher’s right.

Naeher got to the ball but could only parry it high into the air. As the ball began to descend, she saw, to her horror, that it was tumbling back toward her goal instead of away. Naeher reached back and swatted at it a second time. She was sure she had batted it clear, and sprung to her feet waving a finger at the referee to insist she was successful.

Unsure if she was right, the players and the crowd held their breath. The French referee, Stéphanie Frappart, double-checked. The goal was given. The Swedes sprinted away. The Americans froze where they stood.

The tears flowed immediately. From Sophia Smith, the young forward who had missed a chance to win it for the United States, and from Rapinoe, who had sent her shot over the crossbar. Other players were soon crying, too, too many to count. The rest just stared off into the distance, or into the ground, looking, perhaps, for an alternate plane where what they had just seen had not happened.

“Unfortunately, soccer can be cruel some-

times,” coach Vlatko Andonovski of the United States said. He may soon find out just how much.

This finish — eliminated in the round of 16 — will go down as the worst in World Cup history for the U.S. women’s national team, which had always reached at least the semifinals. It was a forgettable denouement to a tournament in which the U.S. team won only once in four games, scored in only two of them, and only in its final game looked like the contender it believed itself to be.

Andonovski will surely take much of the blame for that. But it will be a shared grief for a team that never really found its footing, did not score nearly enough, and now will head home wondering what might have been.

Smith, 22, and young stars such as forward Trinity Rodman and defender Naomi Girma, will have more World Cups. Rapinoe, 38, will not. She announced before the tournament that this would be her last dance, and it will be her most frustrating. Reduced to a substitute, she had come on in extra time and searched, along with everyone else on both teams, for some moment of magic that would change the ending in their favor.

It could have been different. Naeher had kept the Americans in the game with steady work and a series of solid saves. At the other end, her counterpart, Zecira Musovic, had been even better: The Americans outshot Sweden by more than double, and had put 11 of those attempts on goal to Sweden’s one. But time and again Musovic denied them, reaching out to parry stinging shots or dangerous chances.

She pushed away a rocketed right-footer from Lindsey Horan in the 53rd minute and a closerange header from Morgan in the 88th.

“It feels like a bad dream,” said Morgan, one of the American co-captains. “I feel like we dominated, but it doesn’t matter,” she added, probably correct on both counts. “We’re going home.”

Sweden will move on to a quarterfinal against Japan and whatever might come after that.

The United States will pack its bags and head off into an uncertain future. Rapinoe will go, and others, including Morgan and defender Julie Ertz, might follow. They and their teammates will leave behind a World Cup that will be memorable, just as all of their previous trips have been.

This time, though, it will be not for what was won, but for what, on a cold night in Melbourne, was lost.

FIFA Women’s World Cup Round of 16

Sunday’s Result

Sweden 0(5) United States 0(4)

Saturday’s Results

Spain 5, Switzerland 1

Japan 3, Norway 1

Netherlands 2, South Africa 0

Today’s Games (all times Eastern Standard Time)

England vs. Nigeria (3:30 a.m., FS1)

Australia vs. Denmark (6:30 a.m., FS1)

Tuesday’s Games

Colombia vs. Jamaica (4 a.m., FS1)

France vs. Morocco (7 a.m., FS1)

Quarterfinals

Thursday’s Game

Spain vs. Netherlands (9 p.m., FOX)

Friday’s Game

Japan vs. Sweden (3:30 a.m., FOX)

I gave up on boxing, not on this boxer

Iflinched when Seniesa Estrada took a shot. When she twisted to evade a jab, I found myself twisting, too. When she plowed a left hook into the jaw of her Argentine challenger, Leonela Yúdica, I hoped such aggression would lead to a knockout.

As Estrada defended her World Boxing Association and World Boxing Council mini flyweight titles on July 28 in front of nearly 2,500 fans at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, I watched her fight from the stands for the first time in 18 years.

In the early 2000s, when I was a city reporter for the Los Angeles Times, I’d been impressed by the long list of champions from East LA. Oscar De La Hoya was the greatest of them, and I searched for the next teenage boy who could follow his path out of the tough, impoverished, predominantly Latino neighborhood.

Instead, I found Estrada and spent the next three years chronicling her quest to prove herself in the rugged, male-dominated world of junior boxing. The result was “The Girl” — a five-part, front-page series that drew widespread attention.

Estrada’s story was about more than boxing. It was a glimpse into what it was like to be young and Latina, growing up amid the beauty and trouble of East LA. It was also a powerful father-daughter tale. Estrada was guided in life and boxing by her dad, Joe, who was trying to put his troubles with drugs, crime and gangs behind him. By shepherding her, Joe could show he was capable of doing good. By fighting, Seniesa helped him stay straight.

The Estradas shared a dream that seemed impossible in an era when female fighters existed on the far margins of the sport. The series was published seven years before women’s boxing was introduced at the London Olympics in 2012 and well before Ronda Rousey became a sensation in mixed martial arts, opening our eyes to the star power of female fighters.

Despite the odds, Estrada and her father vowed she would one day be a world champion and headline marquee fights in boxing hot spots like Las Vegas.

She is 31 now, a sinewy 5 feet 2 inches, and still full of the sharp wit and self-assurance she has always possessed. Remarkably, perhaps miraculously, nearly everything she and her father imagined has come true.

With the money she has earned in boxing, Estrada has been able to buy a condominium in downtown Los Angeles, a com -

fortable home in a suburb and new cars for both of her parents. Her bouts are now bringing in paydays in the middle six figures. For the Yúdica fight, Estrada headlined a card that included eight matches between men.

Entering last week’s bout, Estrada, known in boxing circles by the name Superbad, had fought 24 times since turning professional in 2011. She had won each time, nine by knockout.

“I just always knew it would happen like this,” she said, reflecting on her journey. “I would always think about it, dream about it, talk about it. And now all those things I wanted are happening.”

Estrada’s career has had its twists. An injured foot kept her out of the 2012 Olympics. Around that time, she quit boxing for a year or so, took community college classes and worked a string of low-paying jobs, including as a server at an ice cream shop.

Then boxing drew her back. Her drive to take the women’s fight game to new heights, opening doors for future generations of women and girls, was a mission worth sticking with. Three more years, she told me last week, and she’ll be ready to retire.

Still, she noted boxing’s grinding toll. The ugly business side that few see. The years she spent unable to get fights, training intensely but with no real competition.

“It’s been a roller coaster,” she said, adding: “Right now I’m just getting to the peak of my career, finally making good money with a great promoter. I’m still eager to learn and get better and be great. I’m still passionate about it, the most passionate I’ve ever been.

But if somebody were to ask, ‘Do you love it?’ No, I don’t love it. Not like I used to.”

I understand the feeling.

After “The Girl” was published, I interviewed at least a dozen former champions for another boxing feature, this one about an aging timekeeper and his memories. I’ll never forget my sadness, interviewing middle-aged and older fighters I had admired, as they stammered and slurred their words. I described one, Bobby Chacon, as being “so shellshocked he must constantly write notes to himself, reminders so he does not forget where he was, where he should be, or who should be around him.”

Soon, advances in medical research caught my attention, particularly new understanding about the effects of repeated blows to the head, which can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, a progressive brain disease.

I found it harder to separate my love for the sport from its costs. I’d once watched avidly and sparred for fun. These days, I don’t spar anymore, and when I watch a fight, I feel such a gnawing feeling of unease, fearing for the fighters and their well-being, that I can usually take in only a few rounds.

While observing Estrada’s career unfold from afar, I worried about her. Whenever I wondered if she should quit, I reminded myself that she does not fight with the takeit-on-the-chin style of boxers like Chacon. She has quick feet and a catlike nimbleness, which allow her to slip, deflect and evade attack.

When she fought, I found a way to walk

back my worries. She seemed ever in control, always on the attack, capable of winning with precision and accuracy or by bloodying opponents into submission. Her 2020 bout against Miranda Adkins lasted seven seconds. Estrada landed seven blows, four to the head. Adkins crumpled in the ring.

I asked her about that fight and whether she worries about the perils of her sport. Estrada answered quickly. “As a fighter, that’s like the last thing to think about,” she said. “Because if you are in there thinking about getting caught by punches and getting hurt, you’re not going to focus on what you need to do to win. So I never really think about the danger.”

But I was caught in an all-too-familiar contradiction: simultaneously revolted and enthralled by boxing. I like to think of myself as a peaceful person who cares deeply about others. But how peaceful was I, really?

Last week in Las Vegas, I was once again entangled.

“Kurt, you are family,” Estrada had reminded me after the weigh-in the day before the bout. I felt pride, plenty of goose bumps — and aching doubt. Why, I wondered, did I want to see her dole out pummeling, painful punishment to Yúdica?

Soon the opening bell rang. Estrada gained the early advantage. She wove in and out like a buzzing bumblebee in her red trunks and top. She switched stances, tossed jabs and uppercuts and roundhouse hooks.

The Argentine never backed down. She used her long arms to penetrate Estrada’s defense. I grimaced and flinched as Estrada absorbed heavy shots that twisted her neck and tore against her face, causing the flesh around her left eye to swell and bruise.

I could not remember seeing her in this kind of trouble. Just then, Estrada responded as she had all those years ago — by commencing an assault. Whap-whop, whapwhop, whap-whop. Her fists flew, and the crowd roared.

The final round ended in a storm of punches, but there would be no knockout. Estrada awaited the judges’ decision under strobe lights in the darkened, noisy theater, her father feet away. Then the announcer’s voice cracked through the air.

“Your winner, by unanimous decision, and still WBC and WBA champion of the world, Seniesa ‘Superbad’ Estrada!”

A tear ran down my cheek. I thought of how lucky I had been to have seen her dreams come true. For her, for her father, I cast my doubts about boxing aside. For them, I always will.

Sudoku

How to Play:

Fill in the empty fields with the numbers from 1 through 9.

Sudoku Rules:

Every row must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every column must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Every 3x3 square must contain the numbers from 1 through 9

Crossword

Answers on page 30

Wordsearch

Aries (Mar 21-April 20)

Aries, you may feel like you’re running in several directions at once. You’re so scattered that you don’t feel like you’re accomplishing anything important. That’s just the nature of the day. You have many loose ends to tie up. It’s hard to concentrate on the big picture when you’re out of groceries. Do whatever maintenance needs doing so you can move on to bigger things.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

Today you may be inspired to have a little fun with your looks, Taurus. You may wish to change your haircut or experiment with different colors or styles of clothing. It would be fun to get out of your routine, even if it just means donning funky sunglasses or bright Hawaiian patterns. You will feel lighter and more flirtatious.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

IToday’s energy has you rethinking all areas of your life, Gemini. If you aren’t as challenged by your job as you think you should be, perhaps it’s time for a change. The trick for you will be figuring out what it is that you want to do. You have a tremendous amount of creative ability. If you aren’t using these talents, why not explore a career that would let you develop them further?

Cancer (June 22-July 23)

You’re ready for dramatic change in your life, Cancer. It isn’t that you’re dissatisfied with your career or personal life. Rather, you feel like you’re missing out on something great, if you only knew what. Be receptive to whatever opportunities arise and explore them all. You may find the answers you seek through travel or more education. Bring a friend if you’re afraid to explore on your own.

Leo (July 24-Aug 23)

You’re ready for dramatic change in your life, Cancer. It isn’t that you’re dissatisfied with your career or personal life. Rather, you feel like you’re missing out on something great, if you only knew what. Be receptive to whatever opportunities arise and explore them all. You may find the answers you seek through travel or more education. Bring a friend if you’re afraid to explore on your own.

Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 23)

You’ve been on a wild ride for several months, Virgo - all that excitement in your personal life and career! If major changes for the better haven’t yet occurred, know that they will. A promotion is in order, most likely accompanied by a raise. Don’t act so surprised - you’ve had this coming for a long time. Celebrate tonight with someone dear to your heart.

Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23)

Foreign lands and new opportunities beckon today, Libra! Keep your eyes and ears open as these opportunities may come to you from an unusual or unexpected source. You’re ready for a change of some kind in your personal or professional life. It’s up to you to take steps in whatever new direction you decide to go. Don’t rule out a few classes as a way to further your career.

Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)

The astral energy indicates that you may have extra money in your pocket, Scorpio. Take care to invest this money wisely rather than spend it all. You will be happier sacrificing short-term gratification for future financial gain. Positive relationships and socializing are indicated this evening. Make a point to get together with close friends and loved ones.

Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

This will be an interesting day provided you keep your eyes and ears open to the opportunities that arise. Don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. Even if you feel unsure about your abilities, embrace the chance to test them. If others think you’re up to the challenge, you should give yourself the same benefit of the doubt! New friends are indicated - make a point to smile.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)

Capricorn, you finally begin to feel like you’re making progress. You’re intent on completing some projects that have long been in the works. After many hours of concentration and focus, you make the last adjustments and proclaim it finished. You can expect to be rewarded for your efforts. Your skills are extraordinary. You can enjoy a real sense of satisfaction. Celebrate a little!

Aquarius (Jan 21-Feb 19)

This is a passionate, creative day, Aquarius. Your blood is hot and passion is on your mind. With luck, you have a significant other who can benefit! If not, you will have to find another way to burn off that energy. Invite a close friend for a jog. You’re in the mood to socialize. If you can’t have physical intimacy, be satisfied with emotional closeness.

Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

You may feel a bit short on inspiration today, Pisces. Don’t be discouraged! Start whatever project is in question, even if your thoughts are elsewhere. During the course of the “bad” work you may churn out at first, your muse gently alights on your shoulder. It sometimes takes a little discipline to lead to delicious rewards!