The battle to learn Spanish
Few things are more humbling than teaching a child. As you conjure up simple explanations for their complex inquiries — all while driving through McDonald’s — you quickly figure out that no matter how...
View ArticleLosing our cultural touchstones
There’s word that Miami is losing two more distinct pillars of culture. In a city where its authentic culture is desperately trying to find a niche in an increasingly commercial, ever-changing...
View ArticleDrawn to the powerful — and evil
Aside from the immediate sense of disgust that came over me upon learning of ex-NBA star Dennis Rodman’s recent hijinks in North Korea, the incident offered an opportunity to reflect on the influence...
View ArticleFab Four’s magic endures in the Magic City
The day before Valentine’s Day marks the 50th anniversary of Miami’s connection to a cultural phenomenon that revolutionized the world. Half a century ago, John, Paul, George and Ringo landed in Miami...
View ArticleTio Bebo: A life not quite fully lived
For as far back as I can remember my great-uncle, Mario, stood out. He was the patriarch of my family — a distinguished gentleman who had put himself through the University of Havana and willed his...
View ArticleBeing a single parent is doubly challenging
For years I watched co-workers and employees —mostly women — hurriedly packing their belongings just before closing time at work, and I wondered why that was? Were they all that miserable at work? Did...
View ArticleCounty leaders ignoring the people’s will
Czech author Milan Kundera once wrote, “Humanity’s true moral test, its fundamental test, consists of its attitude toward those who are at its mercy: animals.”
View ArticleJoe Cardona: Shabby treatment for the poor, elderly
I had the unfortunate experience of having to visit an elderly relative in the emergency room this week. My stepmother fainted at home and was rushed to the hospital mid-morning. I immediately began...
View ArticleI found my voice in Celia Cruz’s
The first memories I have of Celia Cruz is the sound of her guttural voice echoing through my grandparents’ radio. Yo Soy de Cuba la Voz — I am the voice of Cuba — she bellowed. It was the station ID...
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