A big ‘thank you’
Alberto and I have never been fond of recognitions or awards and most people know that, so last Monday, on Rumbo’s 21st anniversary, Pastor Luis Piñeyro planned a surprise for us on his radio show on WCEC 1490 AM.
First, he came to invite both of us knowing that Alberto is the reluctant one but he was willing to talk about Rumbo’s history in the city.
Pastor Piñeyro had recorded messages from several friends greeting us and invited guests bearing gifts and testimonials. Councilor Modesto Maldonado, Alonso Capellán and Milagros Dominguez were in-studio and he even ordered a cake with my caricature. Several people called on the air to congratulate us and we appreciate their good thoughts, too. Among them, Altagracia Mayí and Mario Vancamper made the hour so special for us.
The mayor can’t read
The City of Lawrence is having problems with its water and people are getting nervous. Some worry about finding out what’s in their faucets, others about hiding what may be there.
Mayor Daniel Rivera posted a message on Facebook that attests to that. It says, “I received notification that someone is going around the City claiming they were hired by the Water Department with these posters. THAT IS NOT TRUE, THIS IS A SCAM. The City has not hired anyone to drop these pamphlets.”
Of all of the intelligent people who read the card shown on his post, they chose to believe that he was being attacked and no one bothered to read it. It took a response from Jose Ayala asking him where it says the Lawrence Water Department is involved.
Then, Sarah Perez told him to look at the disclaimer at the bottom of the form. She told him that the bottom of the card clearly says “not affiliated to the city water or health department. Can you read that????” Obviously, he doesn’t or it is one more proof that he acted from the seat of his pants based of gossip.
Mayor, since you fired Mr. Ayala for no good reason, his knowledge and skills have been put to work for a company that tests water systems for free. If people choose to buy their filters, they may do so but the test is under no obligation. It’s all about peace of mind for the families.
Sarah Perez also stated, “I am so tired of people treating us like imbeciles, ignorant; some people actually know how to read and are well informed here in Lawrence. Please have some respect.”
Danny, this is just one more sign of how impulsive you can be reacting to things without consulting with people you have available who may have your best interests at heart. You owe Mr. Ayala a huge public apology.
To intimidate others
A Spanish writer, Jaume Catalán Díaz, sent me the following note describing the plight of journalists around the world.
“Javier Valdez, a Mexican journalist, was killed in Sinaloa only a few days ago. The reactions of his companions were unanimous: Javier was a brave man, a noble man and given to journalism and truth. In Mexico being a journalist and denouncing the macabre narco operations, involvement with police forces and political corruption, is a very risky profession, sometimes paid with life. Valdez has been murdered for not keeping silent, for denouncing through his column Malayerba the plague of narco, for writing books on narco-corruption and for being a referent in Sinaloa. By killing him, they know that they not only cover a mouth but also intimidate other journalists, readers and all victims and citizens.
In Lawrence we have not come to that although I do not consider myself a journalist.
Hair dilemma controversy
The Mystic Valley Regional Charter School in Malden suspended two black girls for wearing their hair braided in violation of school code.
The school administration says that for the sake of equality, their policy of “hair extensions which tends to be expensive” is consistent with the educational environment that is so important for students’ success. Appearance and attire emphasizes materialism which goes against those policies.
What the school didn’t realize is that that policy governs only black students which comprise 40% of the student body. White students can wear their hair in all different colors that don’t seem to affect the same hair policies.
Also, why did they mention that hair extensions tend to be expensive? Don’t they want students to achieve to the best society has to offer? It reminds me of a certain country where everyone was brought down to the same level of poverty – and equality.
Some policy writer goofed!
Mt. Vernon Neighborhood
This area of Lawrence has the best reputation in the city for its cleanliness, city services and neighborhood association.
Through the years, the Mt. Vernon Neighborhood Association has had the reputation of being the largest and most effective neighborhood association in Lawrence. Last week, they held the regularly scheduled meeting and, according to the pictures seen on Facebook, there were barely 20 residents there.
What’s happening? Is the neighborhood changing that much? Are the new Latino neighbors not joining as members?
May is Foster Kids Awareness Month.
Our favorite foster child, Larry Giordano has been recuperating from knee replacement surgery for these past few weeks and is now ready to get started again.
Larry has been the face of Foster Kids of the Merrimack Valley for many years. This organization has made a huge impact in this area benefitting foster children. His book Ward of the State, shares his years of growing up in foster care. You may order it at Foster Kids of the Merrimack Valley, Post Office Box 2166, Methuen, MA 01844 or by calling 978-771-2150.
Memorial Day in Lawrence
There is going to be some ceremony as part of Memorial Day but we were not notified so we were not able to promote it as we have done through the years.
If City Hall doesn’t inform us, a portion of the community is deprived of information. If you are interested in finding out, call the Veterans office.
Nothing for kids to do in this city
People use that for excuse when discussing delinquency and crime in Lawrence. There are many who prefer blaming parents for not supervising enough their children. Those are very simplistic responses. I do know the many activities around the city for children to get involved in because we cover them, participate and publicize what many organizations do.
Just to name a few, the Boys and Girls Club is notorious for the many after school programs available from sports, tutoring, homework assistance, arts and crafts and numerous professionals sharing their expertise. They are famous for the quality of citizens they raise in this community. By the time they go home for the night, they have been already fed a hot meal.
The Essex Art Center has dozens of art classes at very reasonable prices although they cover the cost if the family cannot manage the cost – which tends to be extremely reasonable.
The Youth Writing Workshop for students in grades 6 through 10 at the Merrimack Valley Immigrant & Education Center is a great opportunity for students showing an interest in writing Fee is $10 registration for each session and scholarships are available.
The YMCA has the famous Music Club where children go after school until closing time. They learn all about music, from writing, playing many instruments and performing. And, while they are taking advantage of these free programs, they receive a free membership to use the gym, play basketball, swim and participate in all the YMCA can offer.
The Lawrence Public Schools provide many programs at all levels. Probably the first place most people think of as this being important is the high school, where there is really no shortage of options. Parents should check with the school department to find out about their summer programs.
We have many other organizations with smaller programs that are equally effective in educating our children and keeping them safe. It’s up to parents to show them what’s available and get them hooked.
Found on the internet
“They say that sad thing is not having any friends,
But sadder is to have no enemies.Because whoever enemies do not have,
It’s a sign of not having,Neither talent that will outshine,
Or assets that are coveted,
Or character that impresses,
No feared value,
Nor the honors of being murmur,
Or any good thing to be envied.” José Martí
