diff --git "a/Cuba/2017/news_2017_07.json" "b/Cuba/2017/news_2017_07.json" new file mode 100644--- /dev/null +++ "b/Cuba/2017/news_2017_07.json" @@ -0,0 +1,4608 @@ +{ + "title": "News for Cuba from 2017-07-01 to 2017-07-31", + "totalResults": 100, + "headlines": [ + "Cuban Migration: A Postrevolution Exodus Ebbs and Flows - migrationpolicy.org", + "Pedro Pan: A Children\u2019s Exodus from Cuba - Smithsonian Institution", + "Inside the Closed Cuban Archives - Wilson Center", + "Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba - Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -", + "Letter From Cuba: A Journey Across the Caribbean Island Where Acoustic Guitar is Omnipresent - acousticguitar.com", + "Adventures in Cuba | Buckeye Voices At Ohio State Newark - U.OSU", + "Inside Cuba\u2019s D.I.Y. Internet Revolution - WIRED", + "Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019 - Al Jazeera", + "The Reason Trump Wanted Cuba Restrictions: The 2020 Election - The University of Texas at Austin", + "Castro\u2019s conundrum: finding a post-communist model Cuba can follow - The Conversation", + "Meet Cuba\u2019s Strawberry Whisperer - Saveur", + "Delegation Explores Possible Partnership with Cuba\u2019s Medical School - The University of Texas at Dallas", + "Venezuela Oil Exports to Cuba Drop, Energy Shortages Worsen - VOA - Voice of America English News", + "Walking the Streets of Havana, Cuba With the 35mm Film Canon AE-1 Program - Fstoppers", + "Voices: A Young Cuban-American's First Time in Cuba - NBC News", + "Educators explore Cuban culture via Stone Center institute - Tulane University News", + "A Long Weekend in Cuba (And Why You Really Need to Visit Now) - Vogue", + "Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home - WCS Newsroom", + "Leonardo Padura on a Lost Generation of Cubans, and the Arrogance of Trump - CrimeReads", + "Can Donald Trump change Cuba? - The Conversation", + "Cuba courted in diplomatic push on Venezuela crisis - Financial Times", + "Q&A Interview with Cuban Baptist Pastors - Word&Way", + "'They threw us into the street': Cubans tell of struggles to enter US - The Guardian", + "Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade - Violinist.com", + "Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon | The Migrant Kitchen | Food & Discovery - PBS SoCal", + "In Cuba, Growing Numbers Of Bloggers Manage To Operate In A Vulnerable Gray Area - WLRN", + "In Cuba, a Chinatown With No Chinese - The Diplomat \u2013 Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine", + "UM Names Andy Gomez Interim Director of Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies - University of Miami News", + "Going 'Home' To A Place They've Never Been: Cuba - WLRN", + "Anxious Cubans Count on Trump to Not Follow Through - Politico", + "The Ultimate Cuban Trail-Running Tour - Trail Runner Magazine", + "Best Way to Visit Cuba? Go In Style on a Cruise For Worry-Free Travel - PR Newswire", + "Cuba seeks to revive mining sector with new lead and zinc mine - Reuters", + "Luis Rodriguez Noa brings a bit of Cuba to Cape Cod - Wicked Local", + "Castro's casa: social work lessons from Cuba - The Guardian", + "Colors and culture in Cuba overwhelm first-time visitor - Tampa Bay Times", + "Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy - BBC", + "How Fate of the Furious Made Movie History in Cuba - Collider", + "Catherine J. Weber Obituary July 5, 2017 - Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services", + "Buena Vista Social Club and Ruben Gonzalez Reemerge with Doc & Reissue - DownBeat", + "It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters - Foreign Policy", + "To beat Trump restrictions, Americans rush plans to visit Cuba - Naples Daily News", + "Trump to suspend lawsuit provision of Helms-Burton Act in August - Miami Herald", + "Cuban Activists Say North Korea Fighting Losing Censorship Battle - VOA - Voice of America English News", + "Viaje Fant\u00e1stico in Havana - Atlas Obscura", + "Cuba\u2019s median salary is higher, but life remains difficult for workers with no other income - Miami Herald", + "Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry - Havana Times", + "Grosse Pointe U-16 baseball team preps for historic visit to Cuba - Detroit Free Press", + "Convicted of Murder, and Now Swept Up in U.S.-Cuba Shift (Published 2017) - The New York Times", + "Some of the street art we saw in Havana, Cuba - WMNF 88.5 FM", + "Some Cubans choose dose of private medicine despite price - Miami Herald", + "Why is Cuba Poor? In the Shadow of Imperialism - BORGEN Magazine", + "Ties to Cuba Enhance and Entangle Jorge Mas\u2019s Marlins Bid (Published 2017) - The New York Times", + "Cuba love hotels to make comeback, state announces - BBC", + "Diaz set to continue Cuba\u2019s fine triple jumping tradition - worldathletics.org", + "Cuba\u2019s Raul Castro dismisses harsher US tone under Trump - CNBC", + "FACT CHECK: Does Cuba Have a Cancer Vaccine That Has Already Cured Thousands? - Snopes", + "A Child's Path From Cuba (And A Body Cast) To A Life In Books - WLRN", + "Military Service in Cuba: Not for Women or Men - Havana Times", + "My Visit With One of the Forgotten Prisoners of Guant\u00e1namo - Mother Jones", + "Cuban pianist Rub\u00e9n Gonz\u00e1lez \u2013 Son to Salsa to Latin Jazz - WPR", + "Race Boat To Attempt US-Cuba Speed Record - Marine News Magazine", + "Mark Cuban sees a model for fixing health care \u2014 and he didn\u2019t find it in the United States - CNBC", + "Aroldis Chapman: \u201cI have no problem with playing for Cuba\u201d - universobeisbol.mlblogs.com", + "Controversial Mariel study puts Cuban-American professor in middle of storm - Miami Herald", + "The Most Common Diseases in Cuba - The Borgen Project", + "The Feat of Buying a Packet of Beef Jerky in Cuba - Havana Times", + "The Best Cuba Gooding, Jr. Movies - Complex", + "Norwegian to sail from Port Canaveral to Cuba - Florida Today", + "Norwegian Sun to sail short Cuba cruises from Port Canaveral - Travel Weekly", + "Milwaukee woman inspired by Cuba's focus on community medicine - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel", + "Highest-ranking officer to defect during in Cold War era was from Fort Sam - San Antonio Express-News", + "Crowley\u2019s New U.S. to Cuba Express Shipping Service - MaritimeProfessional.com", + "New theme parks and tourism projects open to foreign investment in Cuba - Blooloop", + "Tourism lifts Cuban economy but overall outlook is cloudy - Miami Herald", + "Ontario boy, 7, stranded in Cuba after falling ill on vacation - CBC", + "Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home | Newswise - Newswise", + "Endangered Cuban crocodiles come home - EurekAlert!", + "Alan Gross Is Starting Over In Israel \u2014 After 5 Years In Cuban Prison - The Forward", + "Young Cubans are learning capitalism - dw.com", + "Cuban diplomat reflects on U.S. relationship: 'Cuba was treated horribly' - Tampa Bay Times", + "Top US Embassy Official in Havana Exits; Deputy Fills In - VOA - Voice of America English News", + "At Mid-Year, Cuba's Economy Struggles To Maintain Growth - Cuba Journal", + "EU-Cuba Agreement: opportunity for a democratic transition - EPP Group in the European Parliament", + "Trinidad, Las Tunas, Cuba Weather Forecast - AccuWeather", + "Burbank\u2019s Travieso organizes softball team\u2019s historic trip to Cuba - Los Angeles Times", + "U.S. fugitive convicted of murder faces threat of extradition from Cuba - The Seattle Times", + "71 UNGA: Statement by the Representative of Cuba, Ambassador Rodolfo Ben\u00edtez Vers\u00f3n on the adoption of the Nuclear Weapons Ban Treaty. - Cubadiplom\u00e1tica", + "ASP Board Member on NPR: \"Can Cuban Charcoal Turn Up the Heat on U.S. - Cuba Relations?\" - American Security Project", + "An Explosive Pill for Pigs: a Cuban Urban Legend or Animal Cruelty? - Havana Times", + "How Cuba\u2019s Movie Posters Influenced Its Revolutionary Art - Fast Company", + "Alabama National Guard 152nd Military Police Company deploys to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. - DVIDS", + "Cruising To Cuba Emerges As A Major Gateway To A New Destination - Cuba Journal", + "With materials scarce, Cuban designers master recycling chic - Reuters", + "Cuban-studies institute at center of controversy between outgoing director, UM - Miami Herald", + "Jaruco, Mayabeque, Cuba Weather Forecast - AccuWeather", + "Endangered Cuban crocodiles released into the wild - Phys.org", + "Alan Gross, after spending 5 years in a Cuban prison, is starting over in Israel - The Times of Israel", + "Medicine Shortage Persists in Cuba - Havana Times", + "Mark Cuban jokes of coveting move to Eastern Conference - 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Wilson Center", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Inside the Closed Cuban Archives - Wilson Center" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMie0FVX3lxTE9LWHk4ZHpzT3g3elVHTkZYVzdPZ0VCUmdRYU5qeEJhdHJXZC1HMWZzem5FVVlJZzlhZWw3SkdYMWhXQW1YbjUtaFhBZlkxZUNSOTlvZUM1MEc3dWNyNnNyeEd1aXBaN2RpWXp4Zm9SeThiVXhva0xTdXN4OA?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.wilsoncenter.org/blog-post/inside-the-closed-cuban-archives", + "id": "CBMie0FVX3lxTE9LWHk4ZHpzT3g3elVHTkZYVzdPZ0VCUmdRYU5qeEJhdHJXZC1HMWZzem5FVVlJZzlhZWw3SkdYMWhXQW1YbjUtaFhBZlkxZUNSOTlvZUM1MEc3dWNyNnNyeEd1aXBaN2RpWXp4Zm9SeThiVXhva0xTdXN4OA", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 31 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 31, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 212, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Inside the Closed Cuban Archives  Wilson Center", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Inside the Closed Cuban Archives  Wilson Center" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.wilsoncenter.org", + "title": "Wilson Center" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Inside the Closed Cuban Archives\nauthor: Piero Gleijeses\nurl: https://www.wilsoncenter.org/blog-post/inside-the-closed-cuban-archives\nhostname: wilsoncenter.org\ndescription: Piero Gleijeses describes his experience in the closed, post-1959 Cuban archives\nsitename: Wilson Center\ndate: 2017-07-31\n---\n# Inside the Closed Cuban Archives\n\nPiero Gleijeses describes his experience in the closed, post-1959 Cuban archives\n\nA blog of the History and Public Policy Program\n\nPiero Gleijeses describes his experience in the closed, post-1959 Cuban archives\n\nPiero Gleijeses describes his experience in the closed, post-1959 Cuban archives\n\n*Being the first researcher to access an archive can be both exhilarating and deeply frustrating. Often, the lack of established policies at newly opened archives creates many issues. Every aspect of access has to be negotiated individually between the researcher and staff. In a **previously published excerpt**, Piero Gleijeses describes his experience in the closed, post-1959 Cuban archives, where he was granted unique access to documents on Havana's involvement in Africa during the Cold War. Each step of his research required negotiation with Cuban officials and archivists as he pushed for increased access, for the right to make photocopies, and finally for permission to **release documents online through the Wilson Center**:*\n\nThe Cuban archives for the post-1959 period are closed. I am the only foreign scholar who has been allowed to conduct research in them \u2013 after years of effort and failure. I began my research in these archives in 1994, and a first book using them, *Conflicting Missions: Havana, Washington, and Africa, 1959-1976*, was published in 2002 by the University of North Carolina Press. A second book, *Visions of Freedom: Havana, Washington, Pretoria and the Struggle for Southern Africa, 1976-1991*, was published in 2013, also by the University of North Carolina Press.\n\nOver time, my access to the closed Cuban archives improved, in quantity and in quality. I gathered 3,500 pages of Cuban documents for *Conflicting Missions*, and 15,000 for *Visions of Freedom*, with more than 3,500 pages of conversations of Fidel Castro with his closest aides or with foreign leaders, including Mikhail Gorbachev. I also gained access to two very important archives: that of the Consejo de Estado and the personal archive of Ra\u00fal Castro.\n\nThere is no established declassification process in Cuba. Mindful of the fact that the documents I cited would not be readily available to my readers, I decided from the outset that I would never use a document unless the Cubans gave me a photocopy of the original. I badgered Cuban officials relentlessly, arguing that in the United States their word has no credibility unless supported by documents. Jorge Risquet, a member of the Central Committee of the Cuban Communist party who was assigned to the task of dealing with me, understood. His intelligence, sensitivity and courage made my research possible and enabled me to have photocopies of every Cuban document I use in *Conflicting Missions *and *Visions of Freedom*.\n\nInitially the Cubans would deny me a document if it included a sentence or even one word they did not want to make public. Soon, however, they discovered the glory of redaction: they simply deleted the offending word or words and gave me the document. Since I was allowed to read the documents before they were sanitized, I know what was deleted: sentences or paragraphs that dealt with the domestic situation in Cuba or statements of a friendly leader about delicate internal problems in his own country. Thus, for example, 29 pages are deleted from the transcript of the January 26, 1979 conversation between Fidel Castro and the president of Angola, Agostinho Neto, because Neto began addressing internal issues of the government of Angola. But this is an extreme case. Overall, the Cubans sanitized very sparingly. The vast majority of documents were not sanitized at all.\n\nWhen I began my research the declassification process was haphazard, but eventually it was systematized. The Cuban authorities created two commissions to review my requests. One was responsible for documents from the Consejo de Estado and the Oficina Secreta 2do Sec CC PCC \u2013 Ra\u00fal Castro\u2019s archive \u2013 and the other for documents from the archives of the Armed Forces, the Central Committee of the Cuban Communist Party, the Technical Assistance Program, and the Foreign Ministry. I would read documents, select those I wanted to have, which would then be reviewed by either of the two commissions. Sometimes the Cubans would tell me their decision in one day; at other times, I would wait for weeks or months. On extremely rare occasions, I would be told I could not have the document at all.\n\nAs a result of my long relationship with Cuban officials, I was able to negotiate permission to publish 3,400 pages of key documents from his research in HAPP's Digital Archive, making them publicly available to researchers world-wide. The collection, Cuba and Southern Africa, contains high-level conversations between Fidel Castro and people such as Mikhail Gorbachev, Anatoly Dobrynin, and Angolan Presidents Agostinho Neto and Jos\u00e9 Eduardo dos Santos.\n\nA leader in making key foreign policy records accessible and fostering informed scholarship, analysis, and discussion on international affairs, past and present. Read more\n\nThe Cold War International History Project supports the full and prompt release of historical materials by governments on all sides of the Cold War. Read more" + }, + { + "title": "Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba - Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba - Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMijAFBVV95cUxQQjUzWXlraDVQQ1FwVF9vYXpXSk9xMTZNRGxMVGx2VDRaYURLcXRPMGFsbEIxRHhTdHlEY1dSRnVTYktPUVZ2WFRSOGNhS0xiSVo5SHhIZ0s4cUYyamtDLXBjZTRISnczY3FyX0RJS3lHYXpLdkpTLVVmUnhIT1F1TVhYLVRueHl3ZnZhZA?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://acousticguitar.com/letter-from-cuba-a-journey-across-the-caribbean-island-where-acoustic-guitar-is-omnipresent/", + "id": "CBMijAFBVV95cUxQQjUzWXlraDVQQ1FwVF9vYXpXSk9xMTZNRGxMVGx2VDRaYURLcXRPMGFsbEIxRHhTdHlEY1dSRnVTYktPUVZ2WFRSOGNhS0xiSVo5SHhIZ0s4cUYyamtDLXBjZTRISnczY3FyX0RJS3lHYXpLdkpTLVVmUnhIT1F1TVhYLVRueHl3ZnZhZA", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Tue, 25 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 25, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 1, + 206, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba  Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba  Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://blogs.bcm.edu", + "title": "Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network -" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Letter From Cuba: A Journey Across the Caribbean Island Where Acoustic Guitar is Omnipresent - acousticguitar.com", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Letter From Cuba: A Journey Across the Caribbean Island Where Acoustic Guitar is Omnipresent - acousticguitar.com" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiuwFBVV95cUxNQml1MGZ1NC1VaXoyOVlGdmR5TXQ2cW9LM1BTemJtR2l4akhMeG54WDBMckVKdlc5NllLbWlUQzlsZTRGS0pSODVIc05JcS1weDRSZlhBMC04WWdReVl4NTF3aWNKS2pWeWVUZWtkM0hsaFVHcjVQblRRNzA4THhvMjViR2V6aVc5V0ZkbkVUOWVhVW0tYkt0UkF6Qkk1RHF2aEl3aUJKNnZNUzBieDd1bnhQdTFDWndGQW1r?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://blogs.bcm.edu/2017/07/25/open-hearts-healthcare-challenges-and-hope-in-cuba/", + "id": "CBMiuwFBVV95cUxNQml1MGZ1NC1VaXoyOVlGdmR5TXQ2cW9LM1BTemJtR2l4akhMeG54WDBMckVKdlc5NllLbWlUQzlsZTRGS0pSODVIc05JcS1weDRSZlhBMC04WWdReVl4NTF3aWNKS2pWeWVUZWtkM0hsaFVHcjVQblRRNzA4THhvMjViR2V6aVc5V0ZkbkVUOWVhVW0tYkt0UkF6Qkk1RHF2aEl3aUJKNnZNUzBieDd1bnhQdTFDWndGQW1r", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sun, 16 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 16, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 6, + 197, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Letter From Cuba: A Journey Across the Caribbean Island Where Acoustic Guitar is Omnipresent  acousticguitar.com", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Letter From Cuba: A Journey Across the Caribbean Island Where Acoustic Guitar is Omnipresent  acousticguitar.com" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://acousticguitar.com", + "title": "acousticguitar.com" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba\nauthor: Momentum\nurl: https://blogs.bcm.edu/2017/07/25/open-hearts-healthcare-challenges-and-hope-in-cuba/\nhostname: blogs.bcm.edu\ndescription: Sergio Navarro, MS3 and research assistant with Baylor Global Initiatives, discusses his visit to the Frank Pa\u00eds Orthopaedic Hospital in Havana, Cuba.\nsitename: Baylor College of Medicine Blog Network\ndate: 2017-07-25\ncategories: ['Momentum']\n---\n# Open hearts, healthcare challenges and hope in Cuba\n\nI recently spent a week visiting the Frank Pa\u00eds Orthopaedic Hospital in Havana, Cuba. The visit allowed a glimpse into the inner workings of the Cuban medical system and re-emphasized the importance of preventive medicine.\n\nA mural outside the hospital was painted with the following quote by Che Guevara emphasizing this point: \u201cAnd medicine needs to change one day\u2026to a science that serves to prevent illness and addresses all the medical needs of the public.\u201d\n\nIndeed, the pride and joy of the Cuban people is its universal education and healthcare system, viewed as an undeniable right regardless of age, gender, income, and race. Access to health resources is intended to be available to all.\n\nEach day I was at the hospital, I sensed considerable hope for the future, the country, and their patients. The young surgeons and nursing staff were eager to discuss their patients and cases, in spite of long hours, packed schedules, and busy waiting rooms. Daily reports each morning were filled with active discussion and a team that was energized to work. And work, the team did. From morning to night, each day of the week, they worked to provide the best possible care to their patients.\n\nYet Cuba is not without its disappointments. The promise of so much is met by the reality of a country with limited resources and economic pressures. The government-run pharmacy was perpetually low or out of certain medications, and the team quickly taught me the small list of medications able to be procured. The facilities were also lacking in technological resources for surgical procedures and rehabilitation.\n\nDreams and careers had changed. A barber, who previously graduated at the top of his veterinarian school class, quickly realized he could not subsist on a meager government salary. A taxi driver with a Ph.D. in literature, versed in quantum mechanics, found his car was the only way to make ends meet.\n\nAs one surgeon outlined to me, the conundrum lay not in a doctor shortage, but rather in the systemic rationing of a finite resource. Whether it was medications, medical equipment, or surgical procedures, all were in limited supply and often not to be found. The solution, he said, relied on better preventive care.\n\n\u201cEverybody in this waiting room will likely need a new knee or hip, but we can only offer them to so many patients,\u201d the surgeon said.\n\nPreventive care includes medical therapy that changes lifestyle, improves outcomes and extends quality of life as much as possible without surgical intervention. Rehabilitation, dietitian visits, physiotherapy, and in-home physician visits are used as first lines of defense to prevent illness and disease before interventional treatments were considered.\n\nPerhaps the experience of Havana and its people can be summarized by a late-night trip to a privately run pharmacy to procure a non-government generic medication for an international patient. As the rain poured down, the pharmacist finally opened the door. After listening to my request, she said, \u201cI\u2019m terribly sorry, the pharmacy is closed now.\u201d I thanked her for her time and as I turned away she said, \u201cBut our hearts are open!\u201d\n\nIt was true. Closed or not, Cuba remains standing with an open heart.\n\n*-By Sergio Navarro, third-year medical student and research assistant with Baylor Global Initiatives*" + }, + { + "title": "Adventures in Cuba | Buckeye Voices At Ohio State Newark - U.OSU", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Adventures in Cuba | Buckeye Voices At Ohio State Newark - U.OSU" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMihgFBVV95cUxNX1QwQzkzZnBuRWpDNWpnQWExTW9fa01aSVhueXFfTTRFdkZZNFR6N1ZvZGN6OWdyOXRabkZVeThBSkVlQnZPNXM5Q19HUEg3cjVFZW1McVpSaXFTM3FMM1hnZElidW1ZLXo4MzA3dXpfNFdJbGFxQXBQTzFpakZGQzVUSG9CZw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://u.osu.edu/buckeyevoicesatohiostatenewark/2017/07/07/adventures-in-cuba/", + "id": "CBMihgFBVV95cUxNX1QwQzkzZnBuRWpDNWpnQWExTW9fa01aSVhueXFfTTRFdkZZNFR6N1ZvZGN6OWdyOXRabkZVeThBSkVlQnZPNXM5Q19HUEg3cjVFZW1McVpSaXFTM3FMM1hnZElidW1ZLXo4MzA3dXpfNFdJbGFxQXBQTzFpakZGQzVUSG9CZw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 07 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 7, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 188, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Adventures in Cuba | Buckeye Voices At Ohio State Newark  U.OSU", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Adventures in Cuba | Buckeye Voices At Ohio State Newark  U.OSU" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://u.osu.edu", + "title": "U.OSU" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 0, + "response": "Error: HTTP 0" + }, + { + "title": "Inside Cuba\u2019s D.I.Y. Internet Revolution - WIRED", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Inside Cuba\u2019s D.I.Y. Internet Revolution - WIRED" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMidkFVX3lxTE0wdlpxSGEzYVJmZkV5N0NmTzkzSHJzOVV0eE4zbjhvQUdXRUtpRVY2RjRFYmFGdE8yeFg0Y19tcUxBbXBBTFBlLUpRX3k2Tm16RTdNeDFnUnFwREFZa2Q0aTJBYko0SERYR3NObTd6Q2RnVDlZSVE?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.wired.com/2017/07/inside-cubas-diy-internet-revolution/", + "id": "CBMidkFVX3lxTE0wdlpxSGEzYVJmZkV5N0NmTzkzSHJzOVV0eE4zbjhvQUdXRUtpRVY2RjRFYmFGdE8yeFg0Y19tcUxBbXBBTFBlLUpRX3k2Tm16RTdNeDFnUnFwREFZa2Q0aTJBYko0SERYR3NObTd6Q2RnVDlZSVE", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 26, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 207, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Inside Cuba\u2019s D.I.Y. Internet Revolution  WIRED", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Inside Cuba\u2019s D.I.Y. Internet Revolution  WIRED" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.wired.com", + "title": "WIRED" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Inside Cuba's D.I.Y. Internet Revolution\nauthor: Antonio Garc\u00eda Mart\u00ednez\nurl: https://www.wired.com/2017/07/inside-cubas-diy-internet-revolution/\nhostname: wired.com\ndescription: In Havana, where data trickles in via overloaded, government-controlled networks\u2014if at all\u2014the people have taken matters into their own hands.\nsitename: WIRED\ndate: 2017-07-26\ncategories: ['security']\n---\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Inside Cuba\u2019s D.I.Y. Internet Revolution\n\nby Antonio Garc\u00eda Mart\u00ednez | photographs by Lisette Poole\n\n07.26.17\n\nYou\u2019ll be sitting in the magnificently beautiful ruin of Havana, surrounded by decaying stonework and pastel-colored Detroit rolling iron, and you\u2019ll be ignoring it all to swipe down on your Facebook feed like a cocaine addict licking his snort mirror\u2014which you are, of course: a depraved cokehead trying to get a hit. And you\u2019ll scroll over the same content you swiped over 15 minutes ago, pretending that it might have refreshed and that it might provide the dopamine rush your brain is demanding. Yet it does not refresh. It *will* not refresh.\n\n#### Related Stories\n\n-\n#### How Reggaeton Exploded All Over Cuba Without the Internet\n\nBy Laura Mallonee -\n#### Pied Piper\u2019s New Internet Isn\u2019t Just Possible\u2014It\u2019s Almost Here\n\nBy Klint Finley -\n#### The New Chrome and Safari Will Reshape the Web\n\nBy Klint Finley\n\nYour fix will come in the form of a small green scratch-off card, almost like a lottery ticket and usually costing a quarter of the average weekly Cuban wage. Some quick work with a coin will reveal two horribly long strings of numbers, and along with a hunched-over clutch of other addicts, you\u2019ll enter the numbers into the password page of ETECSA, Cuba\u2019s government-run telecommunications monopoly, whose design aesthetics are solidly 1997. And then \u2026 *nothing*. Your phone will fail to connect, or its signal will quickly fade, since your chosen hot spot, like most of the city\u2019s hot spots, is overwhelmed by demand. (The government claims there are 60 hot spots in Havana, up from a handful a few years ago. That\u2019s one for every 35,000 Habaneros.) You\u2019ll try again for a secure connection.\n\nThen again.\n\nThen again, going on five minutes.\n\nThen 10 minutes.\n\n*Sweet Holy Jesus. *\n\nYES!\n\nThe joy when your phone startles awake with a burst of delayed notifications will be obscene and quasi-sexual. The screenful of bubbles from every app you use\u2014Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, email\u2014will seem an orgiastic feast on the order of George Costanza\u2019s sex-pastrami-baseball trifecta. Madly, you\u2019ll swipe, swipe, swipe, trying to get the pixel hit you need, the dose you thought you could never go without. And then \u2026 *failure*. The website freezes, the app crashes. The shaky ETECSA network can\u2019t handle the up-to-date versions of FaceGoogleInstaSnapTwitter, and you\u2019ll restart the app and pull down on your feed frantically, again and again and again.\n\nIn Cuba, where Wi-Fi is both slow and terrible, you will be an emissary from the future, a hint of the degeneracy to come. You\u2019re a full-on mainlining internet junkie with the world\u2019s uproar piped into your head 24/7, your emotional landscape terraformed and buffeted by whatever some narcissist just posted on Instagram or some windbag on Twitter. But like the \u201cnot even once\u201d warnings around drugs like meth, you know that after the internet is in Cubans\u2019 pockets, it\u2019s over. Even backward, bitter-ender communist Cuba will become part of the vast data Borg, tied via arterial fiber-optic cables and Wi-Fi to the same pandemonium that gave us cat videos, livestreamed murders, and President Donald J. Trump. The real irony is that if the internet does topple the government and bring democracy to this democracy-starved island, it\u2019ll happen just as democracy itself is being undone by Facebook and every other filter-bubble-creating, political-polarization-amplifying, algorithm-optimized feed. But we\u2019re getting ahead of ourselves, and also oversimplifying, because the Cubans\u2014the very resourceful Cubans\u2014haven\u2019t exactly been sitting around sipping mojitos as the digital *revoluci\u00f3n* passed them by. They have workarounds. Oh, do they have workarounds.\n\n\nSCROLL DOWN\n\n\nBefore my visit earlier this year, I\u2019d never been to Cuba, though Cuba had certainly been to me. The Miami of my \u201980s childhood was a suburban reboot of prerevolutionary Cuba, filled with people who still toasted *El a\u00f1o pr\u00f3ximo en La Habana* (\u201cnext year in Havana\u201d) at important occasions. Everything from family letters to fresh-off-the-raft waiters kept us apprised of the increasingly desperate conditions. In Miami, even the dogcatcher had to have a foreign policy toward the island, and Cuba was all anyone ever really talked about.\n\nIn Silicon Valley, where I worked at companies like Facebook and Twitter for the earlier part of this decade, Cuba was generally regarded, when it was regarded at all, as a technological curiosity. This socialist worker\u2019s paradise was a time capsule where technocapitalism\u2019s \u201cMake the world more open and connected\u201d idealism hadn\u2019t yet delivered its liberal-democratic fruit. The underlying assumption held that, whether it was Facebook pages for Cuban businesses or Airbnb tourists from Texas, the internet\u2019s arrival would lead to a near-instantaneous transformation of Cuban society from Soviet-era holdout to just another part of the globe requiring a dedicated user support team.\n\nGiven the rickety and expensive connectivity, nobody wastes bandwidth trying to stream *Game of Thrones*.\n\nIt seemed like only a matter of time. Yet other than a few rumored experiments beginning in the \u201990s, the Cuban government had a highly restrictive internet policy until 2015, when ETECSA\u2019s first Wi-Fi hot spots started popping up throughout the capital. Walk down a street in Old Havana and you\u2019ll note a flock of smartphone-clutching loiterers either standing or squatting in a park as they try to get on ETECSA Wi-Fi. This is Cuban internet, where access to non-state-sanctioned websites is blocked, the government snoops on anything unencrypted, and the service is grindingly slow, when it exists at all. (I\u2019m told that fast internet access is the exclusive domain of state institutions like universities and very large, mostly foreign corporations like hotels. Short of a few government professionals, nobody can check their email or surf the web, legally, at home without permission from the government.) There are even some startups capitalizing on the rarity, shoddiness, and expense of Cuban internet: Knales, a mobile messaging platform cofounded by Diana Elianne Benitez Perera, packages online weather reports, horoscopes, sports scores, foreign exchange rates, and other basic news into text messages that Cubans can read on their phones.\n\nGiven the rickety and expensive nature of Cuban connectivity, nobody wastes time or bandwidth trying to stream an episode of *Game of Thrones *or a YouTube instructional video. ETECSA Wi-Fi, when you can get it, is purely social and communicative: chatting with the uncle in Miami who sends you $200 every month via a remittance company, the nephew who moved to Spain, the cousin outside the capital\u2014that\u2019s what the ETECSA hot spot is for.\n\nWhich brings us to the first workaround. Every week, more than a terabyte of data is packaged into external hard drives known as *el paquete semanal* (\u201cthe weekly package\u201d). It is the internet distilled down to its purest, most consumable, and least interactive form: its content. This collection of video, song, photo, and text files from the outside world is cobbled together by various media smugglers known as *paqueteros*, and it travels around the island from person to person, percolating quickly from Havana to the furthest reaches in less than a day and constituting what would be known in techie lingo as a sneakernet: a network that transmits data via shoe rubber, bus, horseback, or anything else.\n\nOddly, it works. Cubans can be as conversant as any Netflix-and-chill American about popular shows like *House of Cards* or* Black Mirror*, and they drop allusions to the Lannisters and Omar Little constantly. It\u2019s been reported that as many as 3 million Cubans access content via the paquete. And to understand the paquete\u2014as well as the other epic acts of Cuban hackery I\u2019m going to describe\u2014you need a Spanish lesson you didn\u2019t get in high school. An important word to know in Cuba is *resolver*. While literally meaning \u201cto resolve,\u201d in practice it\u2019s closer to Silicon Valley\u2019s notion of \u201clifehacking,\u201d but without the humblebraggy lifestyle posturing.\n\nNeed to navigate the endless hurdles involved in getting a small business license? *Resolver*.\n\nNeed to bribe a doorman to get into a popular nightlife spot like the ever-teeming F\u00e1brica de Arte Cubano? *Resolver*.\n\nNeed to string 200 yards of cable and an antenna through neighbors\u2019 patios so you can siphon a nearby ETECSA park\u2019s Wi-Fi signal and maybe check your email slowly (and illegally) from home? *Resolver*.\n\nCubans are the kings and queens of *resolver*, the virtuosi of *resolver*. It\u2019s the only thing that\u2019s kept them afloat since the \u201cSpecial Period\u201d in the early \u201990s, when the Soviet Union and its subsidy disappeared, leaving Cuba\u2019s economy stranded and Cubans themselves hungry.\n\nBut arrayed against the forces of resourceful *resolver* lies another important word: *complicado*.\n\nWant to talk to the dissident journalists who scoff at Cuban censorship and are routinely harassed and jailed?* Es complicado.*\n\nWant to get a passport and visa to travel abroad? *Es complicado.*\n\nMy last Spanish lesson: *No es f\u00e1cil*. It\u2019s not easy. This is the closing refrain to almost every practical Cuban conversation, usually uttered with a resigned shrug. The island is one immense battlefield of *resolver* vs. *complicado*, with a decaying colonial ruin as stage and *no es f\u00e1cil *as the Greek chorus.\n\nCentro Habana is the ass-end of a Potemkin village the government has renovated for tourist consumption. Just west of picturesque Old Havana, and east of modern Vedado, gutted shells of colonial-era buildings stand among the odd pile of collapsed rubble or uncollected garbage. Squint, and on some blocks you\u2019d be in a postapocalyptic city instead of Cuba. Even the taxi driver gets lost in this overlooked part of the city and drops me blocks from my destination, forcing me to walk the heat-baked streets with my offline mapping app open.\n\nTrying to tease out the numbering, I note a hand-painted sign over one ramshackle door announcing itself as the seat of the local CDR chapter. The organization\u2019s logo features a Cuban-flag-clad patriot raising a machete to strike, emblazoned with the motto *Con la guardia en alto* (\u201cWith one\u2019s guard up\u201d).\n\nThis unique product of the Cuban revolution is worth a detour. The CDR (Comit\u00e9 de Defensa de la Revoluci\u00f3n) is Robespierre-ian in both name and function and serves as a nationwide network of informants and agents monitoring the population from every balcony and stoop. Convening a group of intellectuals to discuss dissident politics, or even hackers to discuss an open source project? You\u2019ll have a uniformed agent from MININT (Min\u00edsterio del Interior de la Rep\u00fablica de Cuba, charged with law enforcement) knocking at your door, courtesy of your snooping neighbor. Incredibly, the government has actually erected a museum to the CDR in Old Havana to commemorate the network of local rats that has helped keep it in power.\n\nIt would take more than 2,400 person-hours of constant downloading to capture the terabyte of data that goes into a single week\u2019s paquete.\n\nI finally figure out where the hell I am and realize my destination is an incongruously tidy, well-painted two-story building that doesn\u2019t look like it just got hit with an artillery shell. I knock, and my contact, Yuri, opens the door and lets me into an ample front room, empty save for a fatigued-looking, sweat-covered guy in a tank top seated on a lone chair. Unusually for the ever-sociable Cubans, Yuri doesn\u2019t introduce me and continues to the back of the house. The bare walls and almost total lack of furniture give the place the feel of a safe house.\n\nArriving in a windowless back room, I see the raison d\u2019\u00eatre for this operation: a large tower computer, the likes of which only hardcore gamers maintain in the US. The cover is off, cables snake out to racks bristling with external hard drives, and two monitors display what appears to be sophisticated file management software. It\u2019s the source for one of Cuba\u2019s paquetes, a vital connection to the outside world.\n\nWhat Yuri and his competitors and conspirators do isn\u2019t strictly illegal\u2014*alegal* is the preferred Cuban word for this: un-legal\u2014but it\u2019s not so un-legal that I couldn\u2019t track down Yuri through a few discreet inquiries to acquaintances in Havana\u2019s small tech community. My sources tell me there are a half-dozen paqueteros with nationwide distribution, most of whom typically avoid reporters and self-promotion. (The paquetes sell themselves.) But Yuri, who says he recently fell out with his partners in a major paquete operation and decided to strike out on his own, was open to talking. After a few phone calls and a quick get-to-know-you, Yuri is taking me through his workflow, ably and quickly hopping around the file structure of this week\u2019s media shipment. With a few keystrokes and clicks on various pop-up windows, he copies a new file into the going paquete, arranging content in a standard and orderly directory structure. *Pel\u00edculas cl\u00e1sicas* (classic films),* interesantes y variados *(mostly ripped YouTube videos), *deportes semanales* (weekly sports, everything from NHL to Formula One and even e-sports), and the ever-important *telenovelas *(soap operas).\n\nI ask him if any of the content is physically smuggled from Miami, and he denies it, claiming it would be too expensive; in any case, customs would catch much of it.\n\n\u201cBut how do you download this much data, then?\u201d I ask, somewhat aghast at the week\u2019s worth of global internet output he\u2019s accumulated in this dark back room. He points to a pile of green ETECSA scratch-off cards next to his monitor and claims he pays people, including a family member, to sit in public parks with Wi-Fi and download content for five hours a day. That\u2019s who the sweaty guy in the front room was, evidently, back from a long, hot day of downloading.\n\nI do the mental math. One estimate found that ETECSA Wi-Fi hot spots have a bandwidth of 1 megabit per second. Even assuming this is true, and assuming Yuri and his employees manage to suck up all that bandwidth by sitting in public parks at odd times, it would still take more than 2,400 person-hours of constant downloading to capture the terabyte of data that goes into a single week\u2019s paquete. This seems at the very least improbable. What seems more likely is that Yuri is lying, in the way that so many Cubans lie about how they manage to survive. Perhaps he\u2019s paying someone with fast internet\u2014a network administrator in some ministry, a hotel worker with access to expensive commercial internet\u2014to download large swaths of the paquete for him. But he denies it.\n\nThe business end of paquete distribution is relatively simple, and a drug-trafficking comparison might be helpful. Yuri sells his master copy to a distributor in every province, who then resells to regional distributors in Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba, Pinar del R\u00edo, and wherever else, and eventually to the guy on the street. Thus does data-on-wheels radiate out from that back room to every corner of Cuba, and a river of coins and bills trickles back, forming an eventual torrent, the usual bits-for-money internet alchemy becoming a physical one.\n\nAnd the government\u2019s take on all this? While initially hostile, the paqueteros and the authorities have reached a livable d\u00e9tente, with one side agreeing to ban all political and religious content and the other monitoring the output but mostly taking an uncharacteristic laissez-faire attitude. Cubans are on their third generation raised under the suffocating weight of an all-seeing, all-knowing government, and many of them reflexively avoid any topic of conversation or media consumption that smacks of political dissent. The paqueteros just channel that subconscious urge and conform to the government\u2019s total control of the media. *Resolver* beats *complicado* this round. It almost always does. Especially when there is real money to be made.\n\n\nSCROLL DOWN\n\n\nWith his angular features and slicked hair streaked with blond, Roger Juaristi Guede reminds me visually of a young Vanilla Ice. His demeanor, however, is completely un-rapper-like, and he works in the recently renovated front room and hallway of what appears to be his parents\u2019 home in Vedado. Juaristi runs the somewhat cheesily named Highvista Promotions, one of Cuba\u2019s pioneering internet ad networks. In a landscape largely devoid of advertising (other than for the government), Cuba\u2019s jerry-rigged media world has digital inducements to consume.\n\nAs a demo, Juaristi \u201cbrowses\u201d the paquete for me, navigating a Taiwanese-made external hard drive loaded with that week\u2019s content as if it were some interactive browser. Inside every file directory is a selection of image and video ads alongside the actual content; the typical Cuban user might open the ads accidentally as they browse, and they\u2019ll soon no doubt develop a blindness to them, as we do to banner ads. Highvista can also superimpose preroll banners on the videos themselves, messaging that is that much harder to avoid.\n\nWithout knowing it, Juaristi has reproduced the business model of internet advertising circa 2007, before Google\u2019s DoubleClick and programmatic advertising technology crushed it. Namely, you have a \u201crate card\u201d that is just that: a list of prices for a list of ad placements, based on some vague, mythological notion of the value of each: Run of Network (the entire paquete), Premium (the reality show folder), the low-rent Remnant (cat videos), and so on. This model was the bread and butter of online advertising in the jackass, low tech pre-Facebook/Google days. I mention as much to Juaristi, and he looks at me blankly, as if he has no idea what I\u2019m talking about\u2014which makes it only more impressive. Highvista clients also receive a weekly report detailing where in the labyrinthine directory structure of the paquete their ad appears. Lack of network connectivity makes any real ad attribution impossible, and my internal ad technology guy winced at the untrackability of it all.\n\nThis is the fascinating thing about Cuba\u2019s emerging digital class, especially coming from Silicon Valley: Their major issues mimic our own, albeit in cruder and more improvised form. Like some weird species in an isolated redoubt like Australia, Cuba has been evolving convergently (if mostly independently) to the outside world, even if several technical generations later. Turns out if you connect twitchy, narcissistic, boredom-prone humans via digital media, no matter how makeshift the plumbing, they behave in exactly the same way.\n\n\nSCROLL DOWN\n\n\nIf the logistical effort of transporting a physical piece of hardware to millions of people so they can keep up with *Silicon Valley* sounds ambitious, it pales in comparison to the makeshift technical marvel that makes up Cuba\u2019s other internet workaround. Named SNET, short for street network, it is a homebrewed intranet stretching across the capital and parts of the provinces that reproduces much of the consumer internet we know in the free world. With no fast, affordable access to Facebook, Instagram, or online audio streaming, the Cubans have simply created their own versions of these sites and services internally in a wholly separate network, and they are quickly rushing into the same minefield of acceptable-use policies, cyberbullying, pornography filtering, memes, and general online mayhem that Americans have been suffering for years.\n\nI set out to meet two of SNET\u2019s administrators in the epicenter of Havana, the corner of L Street and 23rd Avenue, smack in the heart of Vedado. My contact, Ian, appears from out of the crowds milling in the street. Thin and bespectacled, he is an economics student at the University of Havana, and when not talking about SNET he likes expounding on Cuba\u2019s economy. His companion is more out of nerd central casting. With a pasty complexion\u2014the \u201cmonitor tan\u201d stood out in a sunny climate\u2014and a corpulent physique accompanied by a trollish laugh, this is the subreddit inhabitant known the world over.\n\nWe all pile into an overpriced yellow cab, and Ian instructs the driver west to the furthest outskirts of the city. An hour later we arrive at the dusty and dilapidated far end of Havana. A number of clustered, low-slung buildings with metal roofs serve as family compounds. We converge on one that features the incongruous sight, given the somewhat ramshackle surroundings, of an immense antenna tower sprouting from the roof. Complete with guy wires strung to the ground, it stretches several stories into the air and bristles with what seem like dozens of antennas, large and small, pointed in all directions. This structure is known as a *pilar*.\n\nStrolling into the house, as a frequent guest would, Ian introduces me to a group of a dozen or so men who proceed to scrutinize the American visitor whose presence they collectively approved. The assembled SNET dignitaries then begin a patchwork account of how this beast came into being.\n\nThe whole thing started back in the early aughts with handmade antennas so that gamers wouldn\u2019t have to carry their desktop machines to each other\u2019s houses to play *StarCraft* or *Counter-Strike*. The nine original wireless gaming networks started spreading like a moss over all of Havana, and they joined forces in 2015 to create a city-spanning whole that could be loosely administered in a sort of controlled chaos. They would eventually start communicating with smaller and smaller antennas. It\u2019s a semi-improvised but functional hierarchy, completely analogous to our internet, with the pilares uniting the various far-flung regions of the city. (In modern internet parlance, we\u2019d call this the tier 1 network.)\n\nBelow the pilar in this hierarchy is a node, which is a miniature version of a pilar in that it features servers and antennas pointed in multiple directions. (A node most closely resembles an ISP that serves one local neighborhood within a larger region.) A node in turn provides short-range connectivity to a set of subnodes, which are the final access points, almost like your home internet setup.\n\nThis entire SNET edifice we\u2019re describing lives in total isolation from the internet we know, an island both literally and metaphorically from the buzzing internet continent we all take for granted. Enter *google.com* in a browser on SNET and you\u2019ll go nowhere. But enter the URL of a file and your subnode will route your request to a parent node and then a pilar, and from there to the regional pilar whose nodes and subnodes have the requested file or service.\n\nWhat speed do users get? Ian pings his own pilar in Habana del Este, clear on the other side of the capital. It returns with a latency of 11 milliseconds\u2014fast. Faster, probably, than pinging Google on your average US home broadband connection.\n\nAnd what\u2019s actually on SNET, other than gaming servers?\n\nThere is an Instagram clone called Foro Wifinet; there is a Reddit clone called Netlab with themed subreddits, trolls, and the whole armamentarium of weaponized, amplified, and threaded nerdy pissiness you see elsewhere. There is the Facebook clone, S\u00edgueme (\u201cfollow me\u201d), as well as internet forums powered by phpBB, that ancient workhorse code project that runs every hobby forum from knitting to Jeep repair, all hosted locally.\n\nGamers have cobbled together a faster network with more services than anything this socialist worker\u2019s paradise has produced.\n\nTo conform to SNET\u2019s aggressively enforced terms of service, none of these service providers or site administrators can display consumer advertising or charge users to access their sites. Their creators launch these services just for the sake of creating and gaining status points on SNET\u2014like the bygone internet pioneers, before Silicon Valley became about in-office kombucha taps, 6,000-word Medium think pieces, and $50 million funding rounds. As with the paqueteros, the admins preemptively self-censor, banning any political or religious content from the very outset. Accounts vary, but the SNET admins insist that the network never veers into illegality, and the final vindication was a post in CubaDebate, a government-affiliated blog, in late 2016. Complete with names and photos, the same blog that once published Fidel\u2019s speeches praised the plucky gamers.\n\nWith no real money, and working in a dictatorship\u2019s gray zone, the gamers have cobbled together a faster network with more services than anything this socialist worker\u2019s paradise has managed to produce. I sit in mute admiration as Ian shows me clones of billion-dollar US internet entities. All of it existing in near-isolation from the outside world, just a hundred miles from the US. As often happens with outside observers of the Cuban reality, my two recurring thoughts are: By God, what could these people accomplish if they didn\u2019t have the government gorilla sitting on their faces, asphyxiating everything? Or if they had easy access to all that Silicon Valley has to offer?\n\n\nSCROLL DOWN\n\n\nThe detailed and unsolicited guidance on how to bring home a *visitante nocturno* from my Airbnb hostess is worth recording here for posterity:\n\nI should call the hostess once I know I\u2019m coming home with someone, so she can be there to officially register them and send their identification details to the state. Should my new friend rob me in my sleep, the se\u00f1ora will report them to the police, and the full machinery of Cuban state suppression will be engaged to hunt them down. And hunt them they will: The se\u00f1ora reported that a guest of hers had a bottle of expensive cologne stolen, and the police found the thief and returned the cologne. Totalitarianism has certain advantages.\n\nOne big disadvantage is dictatorship\u2019s inability to create a propitious business environment, which helps explain why the tech startup culture in Cuba remains half-hidden in the shadows. When President Obama was making noises about Cuba in early 2016, a conga line of tech heavyweights mustered to help \u201copen\u201d Cuba. Months later, most of that amounted to nothing more than angling for a photo op with a popular president and his big foreign policy success. Since then only a handful of US companies have made any headway, most notably Google and Airbnb, the former investing in servers within the country and the latter really going the distance.\n\nTechnology isn\u2019t going to \u201csave,\u201d \u201cruin,\u201d or otherwise seriously change Cuba any more than tourism did.\n\nAirbnb managed to draft off an existing cottage industry in *casas particulares* (\u201cprivate homes,\u201d effectively bed-and-breakfasts) and conspired to hack a payment scheme in a country without accessible payment systems. Airbnb complies with the Treasury Department\u2019s formerly pro forma travel restrictions (now presumably enforced by the Trump administration), asking which of 12 very fuzzy reasons for Cuba travel an American uses as tourism cover. Guests will then remit payment to Airbnb, which then transmits the money to an existing remittance payment company in Miami, which then sends bagmen to deliver cash payments to Airbnb hosts on the island. It\u2019s an impressive workaround. But most of the American entrepreneurship machine made a few visits, posted some cool pics, and disappeared without a trace.\n\nEveryone back home in California I\u2019ve talked to about Cuba thought the Obama policy would change everything. I didn\u2019t meet a single Cuban who felt the policy had changed much of anything, though they certainly welcomed more openness rather than less. The only future event they were eagerly awaiting was the planned resignation of Ra\u00fal Castro as president of Cuba in 2018. Even the most optimistic startup founders estimate that Cuba will be stuck in offline mode (i.e., no home internet) until 2020 or even longer. And that was before Trump\u2019s move to roll back Obama\u2019s concessions, which only puts better, richer internet that much further off.\n\nThe most surprising thing about Cuba, after all those years of hearing about it inside the cradle of the Miami Cuban exile, was the real, lived-in-the-moment nature of totalitarianism and what it does to people. In Orwell\u2019s fiction, political dictatorship remains an abstraction, some moral fable cloaked in binary judgments and populated by villains and heroes. But the reality in Cuba is much more mundane. There really is a banality of tyranny; it\u2019s not all just Arendtian hyperbole. People realize they\u2019re being ruled by autocrats, and they do whatever necessary to get by. They reframe \u201cfreedom\u201d to mean the little square of movement and dissent the government grants them, and consider themselves free as a result.\n\nHere\u2019s the tragic reality that the optimists in Silicon Valley don\u2019t realize: Technology isn\u2019t going to \u201csave,\u201d \u201cruin,\u201d or otherwise seriously change Cuba any more than tourism did. The country embraced tourism in the early \u201990s and since then has served as a preeminent Eurotrash vacation destination. But it turns out Western tourists don\u2019t actually pack democracy in their luggage when they come to gawk at tyrannical regimes like visitors in some immersive zoo.\n\nIf the world has learned anything from the past two decades of Cuban economic liberalization, it\u2019s that what happens inside Cuba is a function of the regime\u2019s decisions and is almost completely unaffected by anything the international community does. My impression from the many interviews I conducted over two weeks in Havana is that change will come at a glacial pace, if at all. The centuries-old colonial facades will crumble while the people stagnate in a political repression more suffocating than any tropical heat.\n\nIn the meantime there\u2019ll be ads, there\u2019ll be memes, and there\u2019ll be cyberbullying too. The busy minds behind el paquete and SNET won\u2019t stop, their resourcefulness springing forth with whatever technology they manage to smuggle or contrive. The aces of *resolver* will triumph over *complicado* again and again, and one day maybe they\u2019ll even win out over the source of all that *complicado*, the government itself.\n\n*No es f\u00e1cil*.\n\nAntonio Garc\u00eda Mart\u00ednez *(@antoniogm) is the author of* Chaos Monkeys. *This is his first piece for* WIRED.\n\n*This article appears in the August issue. Subscribe now.*\n\n*Listen to this story, and other WIRED features, on the Audm app.*" + }, + { + "title": "Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019 - Al Jazeera", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019 - Al Jazeera" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMingFBVV95cUxNV1lXMjE3OXpTVnlSS2habmU4TDFJUFNzTkJPS2JUcUpHZktwWFRyVmhpWU5RTXNqRmxfNW5oOFk5enFPZVloU1ZXOFNteVc5bVdoUVJUbEFIS0tEUWtUdWQzSlNaZUVWVDBQQy1IeTBWNjlXdlh1UjlkSjE1WmJjaC1NSFpUQk5hMEx5YVpsVHFzMU1RWDRqWTJ4OGtFQdIBowFBVV95cUxPUDB4VW5nR2lGYnhHaTNyU3dNLWpzMExJUDIwVC1HVEpvdExObmFtaGwyb3Z5Tjl0N1ktSnhTRWhoOEFfRzN4VUhBYm5DUnFPSzZCWHRyVlpDRG1vZFpGVklfbFpJanM3Q0E5SUpWbW5Jc2xJcmRxSE8zd3VvaVZ6NkVZY2k4R3pWQTRwS3J5VFo4Z1hyNlF4QjdSNkVicXJsdVkw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2017/7/16/why-cubas-future-could-be-more-promising-than-the-us", + "id": "CBMingFBVV95cUxNV1lXMjE3OXpTVnlSS2habmU4TDFJUFNzTkJPS2JUcUpHZktwWFRyVmhpWU5RTXNqRmxfNW5oOFk5enFPZVloU1ZXOFNteVc5bVdoUVJUbEFIS0tEUWtUdWQzSlNaZUVWVDBQQy1IeTBWNjlXdlh1UjlkSjE1WmJjaC1NSFpUQk5hMEx5YVpsVHFzMU1RWDRqWTJ4OGtFQdIBowFBVV95cUxPUDB4VW5nR2lGYnhHaTNyU3dNLWpzMExJUDIwVC1HVEpvdExObmFtaGwyb3Z5Tjl0N1ktSnhTRWhoOEFfRzN4VUhBYm5DUnFPSzZCWHRyVlpDRG1vZFpGVklfbFpJanM3Q0E5SUpWbW5Jc2xJcmRxSE8zd3VvaVZ6NkVZY2k4R3pWQTRwS3J5VFo4Z1hyNlF4QjdSNkVicXJsdVkw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sun, 16 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 16, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 6, + 197, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019  Al Jazeera", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019  Al Jazeera" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.aljazeera.com", + "title": "Al Jazeera" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019\nauthor: Mark LeVine\nurl: https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2017/7/16/why-cubas-future-could-be-more-promising-than-the-us\nhostname: aljazeera.com\ndescription: If Trump et al do not spoil Cuba's transition, it could develop into a model welfare democracy.\nsitename: Al Jazeera\ndate: 2017-07-16\ntags: ['Opinions, Cuba, Latin America, United States, US & Canada']\n---\n# Why Cuba\u2019s future could be more promising than the US\u2019\n\n*If Trump et al do not spoil Cuba\u2019s transition, it could develop into a model welfare democracy.*\n\nIf someone would have told me a month ago that I\u2019d spend my recent trip to Cuba obsessing over a missile crisis I would have told them I\u2019m not that kind of historian. But there I was in Old Havana in early July, thinking about whether another missile crisis half way around the globe would lead to the world war that was so narrowly averted here five decades ago.\n\nOf course the missiles in question today are in North Korea, not in Cuba. But the fact that 55 years after the Cuban Missile Crisis and over a generation removed from the fall of the Berlin Wall, Cuba and the United States remain embroiled in conflicts deeply rooted in Cold War politics and mentalities says a lot about the similar state of both societies and the divergent paths on which they are traveling.\n\n|\n|\n\nIndeed, in many ways travelling through Cuba today is like entering a kind of nexus connecting the past to the future, a continuum also inhabited by Trump\u2019s America. On the one hand, Trump\u2019s America seems determined to pursue isolationism and return to a mythical past where America was Great and everyone else, whether blacks at home or small island nations abroad, knew their place.\n\nTrump\u2019s Americans would, in fact, love Cuba in this regard. With its innumerable carefully preserved 1950s cars and love of baseball and cigars, one can vaguely recall the sensation of what it must have been like before Castro, when Americans, from tourists to corporate titans to the mob, had free reign across the island.\n\nBut Cubans, while still ostensibly stuck in a time warp thanks to half a century of American embargo, are clearly pushing in the opposite direction, to open further to the world as the revolutionary era comes to a close with the approaching end of the Castro dynasty.\n\nFar more important than the pride in the past and present is the unmistakable desire to move forward into the future. You can see it not only in the rapid expansion of the internet, despite the relative expensiveness (about $2-4 an hour, seemingly without any restrictions on searching) and in the entrepreneurial spirit to generate extra income from tourism, but also in the Cubans\u2019 desire to use the skills they\u2019ve acquired thanks to the still robust education system to build the local economy rather than go abroad to prosper.\n\nCubans rightly boast of their country's impressive levels of human development and low levels of inequality and crime compared with so many other countries in the region.\n\n\nYou can feel the frisson towards the approaching post-Castro future in the country\u2019s amazing arts scene. Whether it\u2019s the increasingly political hip-hop scene, which in the last decade has sparked periodic crackdowns) or even more aesthetically impressive, the innovative art from major galleries like the Fabrica de Arte Cubano, where large scale erotic canvases mix with intensely hybrid American-Afro-Cuban dance bands, to store fronts with still largely unknown artists old and young.\n\nIndeed, I was not the only American veering between rumba and Armageddon in Old Havana, moving between salsa cafes and graphic arts studios. Even with the new travel restrictions announced by the Trump Administration (which, bizarrely, are supposed to encourage greater freedom for the Cuban people by restricting direct contact and relations with Americans), Havana and other major tourist towns are crawling with happy American tourists. While Cubans are mostly mystified at the Trump phenomenon and his policies, they remain excited to have more American visitors and more opening with the US.\n\nThey also are desperate not to become like other Latin American neighbours; that is, countries rocked by massive poverty, inequality, violence, and corruption. And here is the most important issue facing Cubans today. They know full well the myriad limitations and failures of the communist system. But they are justifiably scared of what will happen after Raul Castro is gone, if the US, led by the uber-conservative and rabidly anti-communist exile community in Miami, took charge of the inevitable transition in the coming years.\n\nCubans rightly boast of their country\u2019s impressive levels of human development and low levels of inequality and crime compared with so many other countries in the region. This despite decades of a full US embargo.\n\n\u201d[Cuba\u2019s\n\n\n11 million population and relatively good natural resource base, along with highly educated population and significant room for growth in almost every economic sector, have the potential to generate a transformation towards a form of social welfare democracy.\u201d]\n\nYet if foreign investment in Cuba\u2019s innovative pharmaceutical, tourism and other industries continues to grow, the gains in human development could be \u201ceasily reversed\u201d in a matter of years with the imposition of a post-Castro \u201cshock doctrine\u201d of neoliberal reforms and \u201copening\u201d of the country back to the unfettered forces of international, and particularly US, capital.\n\nEqually worrying is the uneasy relationship between the country\u2019s African and white populations, as reflected in the clear if not gross segregation of many professions along racial lines. While Cuba\u2019s revolutionaries since the time of Jose Marti have tried to downplay or even deny enduring racism, Cuba\u2019s history is suffused with the dual savagery of slavery and colonialism, followed in the twentieth century by US imperialism and near feudal autocracy based in good measure on racial exploitation.\n\nThe communist government has made strides in tackling the problem, but there are many indications that the openings of the last two decades have disproportionately favoured white over Afro-Cubans, and thus a rapid process of liberalisation and privatisation would once again expose the deep historical chasm between Cubans of European and African descent.\n\nOn the other hand, if left relatively alone, Cuba\u2019s natural, economic and human potential could lead the country to become a model for others in the region. Its 11 million population and relatively good natural resource base, along with a highly educated population and significant room for growth in almost every economic sector, have the potential to generate a transformation towards a form of social welfare democracy. It would preserve the best gains of the revolutionary era in terms of social development and solidarity while encouraging Cubans\u2019 entrepreneurial ethos and already deep links with the global economy.\n\n|\n|\n\nBut such a path would have many enemies. If Trump and the conservative leadership of the Cuban exile community \u2013 who were crucial to his Florida election victory \u2013 are allowed to hijack the post-Castro process, Cuba could easily descend into economic, ethnic and racial chaos and strife, turning this strategically located island into a hub for narco and human traffickers, money-laundering, cheap labour, and other ravages of unfettered neoliberalism that have so damaged Cuba\u2019s Central American and Caribbean neighbours.\n\nAnd this is the biggest problem facing Cuba. The US under Trump is likely headed down a dark hole of plutocracy and racial, ethnic and class conflict on an unprecedented scale. Cuba has been there before, and very few Cubans want to have that dance again. \u201cMake Cuba great again\u201d means something very different to most Cubans than it does in Trump\u2019s America. Cubans have the potential to resist this dark political path and build for themselves a better future. It is increasingly difficult to imagine Americans still having that promise.\n\n**Mark LeVine is a professor of Middle Eastern history at the University of California, Irvine, and a distinguished visiting professor at Lund University.**\n\n**The views expressed in this article are the author\u2019s own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera\u2019s editorial policy.**" + }, + { + "title": "The Reason Trump Wanted Cuba Restrictions: The 2020 Election - The University of Texas at Austin", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "The Reason Trump Wanted Cuba Restrictions: The 2020 Election - The University of Texas at Austin" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMimwFBVV95cUxNQTNCQ3UzTVRoLTVDUDMzR0VxX0lxTWtqQ040S2xfQU1NVk93azlTUlZfTmdEdGFxdFNfU0hoVTlSTHJhY0pwWEtNRXdUREZRR1RTSXpEMlJpWmdFVjZBc2xxN1p2RkdNV3ZJTmM1dGFKUllIbjJtLWVZdmRnN1psTmJZZjd6dGhCMUwwR2V1WlZfUUY0VTRjNGMtbw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://news.utexas.edu/2017/07/17/the-reason-trump-wanted-cuba-restrictions-the-2020-election/", + "id": "CBMimwFBVV95cUxNQTNCQ3UzTVRoLTVDUDMzR0VxX0lxTWtqQ040S2xfQU1NVk93azlTUlZfTmdEdGFxdFNfU0hoVTlSTHJhY0pwWEtNRXdUREZRR1RTSXpEMlJpWmdFVjZBc2xxN1p2RkdNV3ZJTmM1dGFKUllIbjJtLWVZdmRnN1psTmJZZjd6dGhCMUwwR2V1WlZfUUY0VTRjNGMtbw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 17 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 17, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 198, + 0 + ], + "summary": "The Reason Trump Wanted Cuba Restrictions: The 2020 Election  The University of Texas at Austin", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "The Reason Trump Wanted Cuba Restrictions: The 2020 Election  The University of Texas at Austin" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://news.utexas.edu", + "title": "The University of Texas at Austin" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Castro\u2019s conundrum: finding a post-communist model Cuba can follow - The Conversation", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Castro\u2019s conundrum: finding a post-communist model Cuba can follow - The Conversation" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMinwFBVV95cUxNUkhwWDJRVEFzU0Y0UWJKYkVRLVRhakVMcURlcVBCTXptUVpaVUpHZVZCT2hwdWpuN3Vtb1dJSklvTWVlcUtrNHdrTnZMcHlBUnpncXNMbzlheE9oVl9xc2l3bjVwTEx3X3hrMzFjNkVFSWE1TTNiZUwzc2wzUVBDdE14Y2RYUFplWnZKYkZIc2FEY3YxNVZaSFpFX0dxSVU?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.saveur.com/cuban-strawberry-whisperer/", + "id": "CBMinwFBVV95cUxNUkhwWDJRVEFzU0Y0UWJKYkVRLVRhakVMcURlcVBCTXptUVpaVUpHZVZCT2hwdWpuN3Vtb1dJSklvTWVlcUtrNHdrTnZMcHlBUnpncXNMbzlheE9oVl9xc2l3bjVwTEx3X3hrMzFjNkVFSWE1TTNiZUwzc2wzUVBDdE14Y2RYUFplWnZKYkZIc2FEY3YxNVZaSFpFX0dxSVU", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 28 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 28, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 209, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Castro\u2019s conundrum: finding a post-communist model Cuba can follow  The Conversation", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Castro\u2019s conundrum: finding a post-communist model Cuba can follow  The Conversation" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://theconversation.com", + "title": "The Conversation" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Meet Cuba's Strawberry Whisperer\nauthor: Jen Lin-Liu\nurl: https://www.saveur.com/cuban-strawberry-whisperer/\nhostname: saveur.com\ndescription: How the strawberry-obsessed Ernesto Alp\u00edzar brought the California berries to Cuba.\nsitename: Saveur\ndate: 2017-07-17\ncategories: ['Cuba', 'North America', 'Raw', 'Recipes by Technique', 'Techniques', 'Travel']\ntags: ['feature, issue 190, spread, Strawberries, Travel']\n---\nErnesto Alp\u00edzar didn\u2019t taste a strawberry until after the revolution, when he was 34 and living in Eastern Europe. As a kid in the 1930s, he recalls seeing the fruit from afar in Bauta, the rural village outside Havana where he grew up. A farmer there cultivated them exclusively for wealthy Cubans and expats. Like Coca-Cola and cars, the first strawberries had arrived from the United States in the early 1900s. But the plants didn\u2019t fare well in the tropical climate and remained a rarity.\n\nAs a young man, Alp\u00edzar taught English in high school. After the revolution, he was given the opportunity to study abroad as part of a Castro-sponsored program to train citizens and reward supporters of the revolution. (Alp\u00edzar\u2019s father, the head of a baker\u2019s union, had backed the dictator.) Working in Romania, he was assigned by the Cuban government to cultivate fruits exotic to the Caribbean, including strawberries. At the time, Alp\u00edzar was more interested in grapes and winemaking. \u201cI wanted to enjoy the outdoors, the fresh air, and eat to my heart\u2019s content,\u201d he says.\n\nHe returned to Cuba in the mid \u201960s and grew strawberries on a collective farm in Banao, a mountainous valley of Sancti Sp\u00edritus. \u201cI spent so much time with strawberries that I began to talk to them,\u201d Alp\u00edzar says. \u201cThey were so delicate, they were like babies.\u201d The higher elevation and cool microclimate was conducive to growing strawberries. But the breed\u2014Mission\u2014was too delicate, more akin to raspberries in size and texture, and the project lasted less than a decade.\n\n\u201cStrawberries will tell you when they\u2019re sick,\u201d he says. \u201cIf the petals fall, they need water; if the leaves have holes, bugs are bothering them.\u201d\n\nIn 1972, the government tasked Alp\u00edzar with finding a firmer, more transportable variety. He spent two months traveling around Mexico with Cuban commerce officials, but found that many of the plants there were diseased. Hardier strains (notably the Parker strawberry) were grown in the U.S. To skirt the American embargo, officials made contact with a German-Chilean businessman connected to California growers. \u201cWith the embargo, I\u2019m making tons of money,\u201d the man told Alp\u00edzar. \u201cAside from drugs, I can get you anything.\u201d\n\nAll Alp\u00edzar wanted were the strawberry plants. He arranged to meet the German-Chilean in Santiago and personally accompanied 80,000 of them\u2014frozen, dormant, and bought for a quarter each\u2014back to Cuba on a Russian Tupolev plane.\n\nIn San Antonio de los Ba\u00f1os, the small town where he now lives, Alp\u00edzar began cultivating them with the help of some 300 high school students. In an echo of the Cultural Revolution in China, Castro had begun sending thousands of students to live in rural boarding schools, where education was divided between the classroom and fields. Alp\u00edzar\u2019s program produced enough fruit to supply Coppelia, Cuba\u2019s hugely popular ice cream parlor. In the well-received 1993 Cuban film Fresa y Chocolate, set in the \u201970s, fresa (strawberry) appeared as a daring alternative to mainstream and Communist chocolate.\n\nAs the Cuban economy went into a tailspin in the early 1990s, an era known as the per\u00edodo especial, government-mandated strawberry cultivation died out. By then, Alp\u00edzar had retired from a job at the Academy of Sciences and was living on a plot of land the government had awarded him. When the crisis hit, he and his family could no longer survive on his pension, so he began multiplying Parker plants and carrying the fruit to Havana to sell door-to-door.\n\nAt 89, he makes the two-hour journey to Havana\u2014via a mix of horse carts, creaking buses, and rusty 1950s cars\u2014several times a week during strawberry season. Most Cubans still don\u2019t have access to strawberries. At $5 a pound they are an expensive luxury in a country where state employees earn about $25 a month. Few of Alp\u00edzar\u2019s clients\u2014mostly paladares, or private restaurants, and a small but growing affluent population\u2014would recognize the retired agronomist as the Johnny Appleseed of the Cuban strawberry.\n\nEven in his older age, Alp\u00edzar spends almost every morning working on the several-acre plot of land behind his apartment in San Antonio de los Ba\u00f1os. \u201cDid you know that strawberries are in the rose family?\u201d Alp\u00edzar asks no one in particular. \u201cYou wouldn\u2019t think it, but they are. They really are beautiful things.\u201d\n\n## Keep Reading\n\nContinue to Next Story" + }, + { + "title": "Meet Cuba\u2019s Strawberry Whisperer - Saveur", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Meet Cuba\u2019s Strawberry Whisperer - Saveur" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiX0FVX3lxTE5EYl9KaE5tWjhMcFlWTVZqUTZSNHdQLTRwS05DNjhWUmVncEJUdHB5UzJTcGV4NUFraEJMRnRDdVN6aXRqQmVuTjRQZU9SUmhCU3VmSnk1Wno3MjdzcjFZ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://theconversation.com/castros-conundrum-finding-a-post-communist-model-cuba-can-follow-81242", + "id": "CBMiX0FVX3lxTE5EYl9KaE5tWjhMcFlWTVZqUTZSNHdQLTRwS05DNjhWUmVncEJUdHB5UzJTcGV4NUFraEJMRnRDdVN6aXRqQmVuTjRQZU9SUmhCU3VmSnk1Wno3MjdzcjFZ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 17 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 17, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 198, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Meet Cuba\u2019s Strawberry Whisperer  Saveur", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Meet Cuba\u2019s Strawberry Whisperer  Saveur" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.saveur.com", + "title": "Saveur" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Castro\u2019s conundrum: finding a post-communist model Cuba can follow\nauthor: Dr Antonio Castillo\nurl: https://theconversation.com/castros-conundrum-finding-a-post-communist-model-cuba-can-follow-81242\nhostname: theconversation.com\ndescription: Cuba won\u2019t tolerate the high social costs paid by China and Vietnam in their shift to market capitalism, but its economy desperately needs a reboot.\nsitename: The Conversation\ndate: 2017-07-28\n---\nWhen US President Donald Trump imposed new restrictions on Cuba in June 2017, he professed his administration\u2019s aim was to \u201cencourage greater freedom for the Cuban people and economic interaction\u201d.\n\nRa\u00fal Castro, who took over from his brother Fidel in 2008, has been trying to figure out that last part for years. In 2010, Castro spoke of the need to \u201cupdate the economic model\u201d, but the world has regrettably few models for a communist country in transition can follow.\n\nAs Rafael Hernandez, editor of the Cuban journal Temas, informed America\u2019s National Public Radio in 2012, \u201ca new model for Cuba is still taking shape, but it would be foolish for the island to try copying China or Vietnam\u201d.\n\nIn both of these countries, but particularly in China, the transition to a market economy in recent decades has created gross economic inequality and come at a high social cost. Such outcomes would be unacceptable in Cuba, where the revolutionary spirit of egalitarianism lives on.\n\n## Cuba\u2019s *cuentapropistas*\n\nIn the meantime, Castro is giving Cuba\u2019s stagnant economy a cash injection by pursuing a simple premise: maintain state control of the economy but give the private sector more room for manoeuvre.\n\nAt the March 2011 Sixth Congress of the Cuban Communist Party, Castro spearheaded the approval of 300 historic measures to unlock the country\u2019s entrepreneurial spirit, including reducing public sector jobs, decentralising the state apparatus and encouraging self-employment.\n\nAfter a half-century of prohibition on where and how they could earn money, Cubans jumped at the opportunity to start their own small businesses.\n\nRamiro is one of them. \u201cIt was unbelievable, I took more than a hundred photos of Obama,\u201d he told me on a crisp April afternoon while walking along the Malec\u00f3n, the eight-kilometre esplanade along Havana\u2019s north coast.\n\nBarack Obama and his family landed at Jos\u00e9 Mart\u00ed international airport in March 2016, the first US president to set foot on the island since Calvin Coolidge in 1928.\n\nRamiro, who sells *churros* in touristy Old Havana, is also a freelance photographer, and he followed the Obamas around the city, documenting their stay.\n\n\u201cLook at this one,\u201d he said, showing me an image of the former president entering a restaurant with his wife and two daughters. \u201cThis is Obama when he went to have dinner at San Cristobal\u201d, one of Cuba\u2019s top-rated *paladares*, or private eateries.\n\n\u201cYou should try the food there, you know Mick Jagger ate there, too?\u201d\n\n## The tourist engine\n\nRamiro\u2019s recommendation is tongue-in-cheek: I can\u2019t afford San Cristobal and he knows it.\n\nHappily, there are more affordable options among Havana\u2019s 1,700 *paladares*. These in-home restaurants are part of the new economic model that encourages *cuentapropismo*, or self-employment, in Cuba.\n\nBy the end of 2016, there were more than 535,000 *cuentrapropistas* on the island. Self-employment now represents 26% of non-state employment, and it is projected to rise to 35%.\n\nOther than owning a *paladar*, Cuban entrepreneurs may now legally engage in 202 other private activities, including being an electrician, animal trainer, gardener, hairdresser, street vendor and rickshaw driver.\n\nTourism is the engine of this change. According to Cuba\u2019s Ministry of Tourism, more than 4 million tourists are expected to land on the island in 2017.\n\nUS tourism has long been banned here, even under Barack Obama, so Americans must seek one of 12 specific licences to avoid violating US sanctions against Cuba.\n\nLester and Laura, a Catholic couple in their 60s, told me that they \u201ccame in under the religious activities\u201d license, citing one reason Americans can get authorisation to travel Cuba.\n\nBoth schoolteachers, Lester and Laura were staying in an affordable *casa particular* (private home) on Old Havana\u2019s Plaza Vieja. Like the *paladares*, these bed and breakfast-style accommodations are part of the *cuentapropista* economic plan.\n\nThe average host makes US$250 per booking, according to Fortune magazine \u2013 good money in a country where the average monthly salary is US$23. Business is clearly booming.\n\nJaime and Mario, the owners of the *casa particular* hosting Lester and Laura, have impeccably renovated the fourth floor of their six-floor apartment building, splitting it into two self-contained bedrooms.\n\nThey\u2019d like to add a third, they told me, but navigating Cuban bureaucracy is as slow as dancing *merengue*. Approval to expand will take months.\n\n## An equitable society\n\nFidel Castro, who died in 2016 at the age of 90, remains a revered figure among Cubans. He is buried 800 kilometres from Havana, in the Santa Ifigenia cemetery in Santiago de Cuba, the birthplace of the Cuban revolution.\n\nDon Ra\u00fal, a *Santiague\u00f1o* engineer who drives an unpainted 1954 Chevrolet, met me at the cemetery on one of those steamy, scorching Santiago mornings. He directed me to Fidel\u2019s tomb (\u201cWalk to the entry and then turn left\u201d).\n\nFidel\u2019s ashes are encased under a bulky granite boulder bearing a minimalist dark plaque engraved with just his first name. To pay respects to the legendary *comandante*, just as with so many things in Cuba from buying coffee to accessing the internet, one must queue.\n\n\u201cWithout Fidel we are heading to an unequal society,\u201d Don Ra\u00fal told me. He is suspicious of *cuentapropismo*, which enriches some and leaves others out. \u201cIt\u2019s not good.\u201d\n\nHe doesn\u2019t consider himself an entrepreneur. \u201cI\u2019m just a driver,\u201d he said.\n\nDon Raul, who still gets emotional when he speaks of Fidel, worries that Miguel D\u00edaz-Canel, Ra\u00fal Castro\u2019s designated successor, will push Cuba to become a \u201cUS-style country\u201d when he takes the reins in 2018.\n\nA girl, perhaps ten years old, leaves a bunch of red roses at Fidel\u2019s tomb.\n\n\u201cHe was a friend,\u201d she told me. \u201cHe fought for the country and for the education of children.\u201d\n\nShe\u2019s onto something. Unlike elsewhere in Latin America, kids in Cuba don\u2019t beg or sell candy on the streets. Education levels rival those of the developed world and childhood malnutrition is almost nonexistent.\n\nThese are key indicators of human development. Even in bad times, Cuba has been an equitable society. And herein lies the existential dilemma facing Castro (and, soon enough, D\u00edaz-Canal): Cuba is poor, but it has also avoided many of the maladies facing its neighbours.\n\nRaul Castro has described his vision for the country as \u201cprosperous and sustainable socialism\u201d. Now he just has to figure out what that looks like." + }, + { + "title": "Delegation Explores Possible Partnership with Cuba\u2019s Medical School - The University of Texas at Dallas", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Delegation Explores Possible Partnership with Cuba\u2019s Medical School - The University of Texas at Dallas" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMimgFBVV95cUxOeGNmd0pLSHZXTHdIWGRvUndzNzB3S3lkQ0pHb3BpbjQtZktSYk9TNHUya0t0OEFBdXJCWnRPMWl1UThlOWpBNnRfcVdyMlQ4SExzUHhiRlNvTExHTUhVWnE2QXlpZHFIMlhtZE42V3M5Z2VwT1RibzZZZXIzZ2lwMEl2MTZqSU1Od0Q3UE5Hd0E1b0gxUzZ6MndR?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://news.utdallas.edu/campus-community/delegation-explores-possible-partnership-with-cuba/", + "id": "CBMimgFBVV95cUxOeGNmd0pLSHZXTHdIWGRvUndzNzB3S3lkQ0pHb3BpbjQtZktSYk9TNHUya0t0OEFBdXJCWnRPMWl1UThlOWpBNnRfcVdyMlQ4SExzUHhiRlNvTExHTUhVWnE2QXlpZHFIMlhtZE42V3M5Z2VwT1RibzZZZXIzZ2lwMEl2MTZqSU1Od0Q3UE5Hd0E1b0gxUzZ6MndR", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 20 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 20, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 201, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Delegation Explores Possible Partnership with Cuba\u2019s Medical School  The University of Texas at Dallas", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Delegation Explores Possible Partnership with Cuba\u2019s Medical School  The University of Texas at Dallas" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://news.utdallas.edu", + "title": "The University of Texas at Dallas" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 0, + "response": "Error: HTTP 0" + }, + { + "title": "Venezuela Oil Exports to Cuba Drop, Energy Shortages Worsen - VOA - Voice of America English News", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Venezuela Oil Exports to Cuba Drop, Energy Shortages Worsen - VOA - Voice of America English News" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMimgFBVV95cUxOQXoyVExqa3JxaDJyU0NJQlo2bGtNcFlTMjJyX0kxQV9WMVdUZ3h4VnNaU2syb1ZlZVR6My1QcjZEUHcxN2NkdTFSVmU4Q3VvWUFVdkFrWWdBN2R0Rkk0bzUwZThSdjBoVUNGYUNhVFJnazMwRDB2TDItcHlPNjY4eFJ2MkpNYV9UcHhlS0VSTjh4c1l2aGxQbGhB0gGcAUFVX3lxTE5fUWRObWdpeUJtckVTVjF1eWhpdk8zUkFrY3VYQ2FDQkFUSi10eE5NV1k3ZXZka3FfYy1EQm40Rmt5Q0pfMmlkUktQVklTczVQbnZjbmN2N3c5ZERyY2p6bi1JcWR5M3RwN1Y2aW5tTmw1bzNHN0d4Rmx6MlV4d1NOMWZKS0E0c1lfSHY0NUJZdllLUnBpUTh3c19ZaA?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.voanews.com/a/venezuela-oil-exports-cuba-drop-energy-shortages-worsen/3943833.html", + "id": "CBMimgFBVV95cUxOQXoyVExqa3JxaDJyU0NJQlo2bGtNcFlTMjJyX0kxQV9WMVdUZ3h4VnNaU2syb1ZlZVR6My1QcjZEUHcxN2NkdTFSVmU4Q3VvWUFVdkFrWWdBN2R0Rkk0bzUwZThSdjBoVUNGYUNhVFJnazMwRDB2TDItcHlPNjY4eFJ2MkpNYV9UcHhlS0VSTjh4c1l2aGxQbGhB0gGcAUFVX3lxTE5fUWRObWdpeUJtckVTVjF1eWhpdk8zUkFrY3VYQ2FDQkFUSi10eE5NV1k3ZXZka3FfYy1EQm40Rmt5Q0pfMmlkUktQVklTczVQbnZjbmN2N3c5ZERyY2p6bi1JcWR5M3RwN1Y2aW5tTmw1bzNHN0d4Rmx6MlV4d1NOMWZKS0E0c1lfSHY0NUJZdllLUnBpUTh3c19ZaA", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 13, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 194, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Venezuela Oil Exports to Cuba Drop, Energy Shortages Worsen  VOA - Voice of America English News", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Venezuela Oil Exports to Cuba Drop, Energy Shortages Worsen  VOA - Voice of America English News" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.voanews.com", + "title": "VOA - Voice of America English News" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Venezuela Oil Exports to Cuba Drop, Energy Shortages Worsen\nauthor: Reuters\nurl: https://www.voanews.com/a/venezuela-oil-exports-cuba-drop-energy-shortages-worsen/3943833.html\nhostname: voanews.com\ndescription: With Venezuela's crude production sliding for the sixth year in a row, the OPEC nation has had less oil to send Cuba and other customers in regions from Asia to North America and the Caribbean\nsitename: Voice of America (VOA News)\ndate: 2017-07-13\ncategories: ['Americas']\ntags: ['Economy, Americas, Cuba, economy, Venezuela, crude oil']\n---\nVenezuela's crude and fuel deliveries to Cuba have slid almost 13 percent in the first half this year, according to documents from state-run oil company PDVSA viewed by Reuters, threatening to worsen gasoline and power shortages in the communist-run island.\n\nCuba's government since 2016 has reduced fuel allocations 28 percent to most state-run companies, and has cut electricity consumption. Public lighting was cut 50 percent, while residential electric use was spared.\n\nBeginning in March, Cubans also have reported minor gasoline and diesel shortages at service stations.\n\nCuba's economy depends heavily on Venezuelan crude shipments under a series of bilateral agreements started in 2000 by the South American country's late President Hugo Chavez. In return, the island nation has provided Venezuela with Cuban doctors and other services.\n\nVenezuela's shipments of crude for Cuba's refineries dropped 21 percent to 42,310 barrels per day (bpd), the documents showed. Last year, Venezuela made up for a shortfall in crude shipments by sending Cuba more fuels, but this year's data showed refined products sent to Cuba remained almost unchanged at around 30,040 bpd.\n\nIn total, PDVSA sent Cuba an average of 72,350 bpd of crude and refined products in the first half of 2017, down almost 13 percent from the same period of last year, according to the data from internal PDVSA trade reports.\n\n\"Cuba needs at least 70,000 bpd from Venezuela to cover its energy deficit and avoid deeper rationing. A larger or total loss of the Venezuelan supply would have a high political and financial cost for Cuba,\" which has been gearing up to welcome more tourists, said Jorge Pinon, a Cuban energy expert at the University of Texas in Austin.\n\nCuba suffered severe energy rationing in the 1990s after the collapse of the Soviet Union, an ally that had provided cheap fuel. In 2016, Cuba's economy went into recession for the first time since those days, declining almost 1 percent as shrinking export earnings left it short of funds to import oil on the open market and replace declining Venezuelan supplies.\n\nWith Venezuela's crude production sliding in 2017 for the sixth year in a row, the OPEC nation has had less oil to send Cuba and other customers in regions from Asia to North America and the Caribbean.\n\nCuba, which produces extremely heavy crude used by industry and power plants, received 103,226 bpd of oil from Venezuela in the first half of 2015, according to the same data.\n\nPDVSA, whose full name is Petroleos de Venezuela SA, did not reply to a request for comment.\n\nVenezuela's oil shipments to Cuba have been falling since 2008, when they peaked at 115,000 bpd mainly due to a decline in crude exports. The poor shape of Venezuelan refineries cut into fuel exports this year, and Venezuela has also had to boost fuel imports to meet domestic demand.\n\nCuba, in addition to rationing fuel, is seeking oil cargoes from other producers including Russia, something it had not done for more than a decade.\n\nIn one of several recent shipments, the Ocean Quest tanker loaded with fuel oil at Russia's Tuapse terminal, arrived in Havana on July 9 and is waiting to discharge, according to Reuters vessel tracking data. The Tuapse terminal is operated by state-run Rosneft.\n\nCuba's three aged refineries have been operating at reduced rates since last year due to a shortage of light crude, which also affects Venezuela's 1.3-million-bpd refining network." + }, + { + "title": "Walking the Streets of Havana, Cuba With the 35mm Film Canon AE-1 Program - Fstoppers", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Walking the Streets of Havana, Cuba With the 35mm Film Canon AE-1 Program - Fstoppers" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMilAFBVV95cUxOS1B1X2Ffd2lHRGtVUFdsTUtVdlpwTUh4bm9sTHZ6bzNOOGJqbW9OYnQyclF4VS03NTA0TGpjSUJNQXpfZFBvWktxbWo5T0p5TjYxWVRwTExFb216bGM1alZmaHJ6akl3SnRaOXVESGJYNlZZWFpNRXh5X3N2bE5wWVBvcXBOZG5oTHpYa0M4dlgtd1NC?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/voices-young-cuban-american-s-first-time-cuba-n779646", + "id": "CBMilAFBVV95cUxOS1B1X2Ffd2lHRGtVUFdsTUtVdlpwTUh4bm9sTHZ6bzNOOGJqbW9OYnQyclF4VS03NTA0TGpjSUJNQXpfZFBvWktxbWo5T0p5TjYxWVRwTExFb216bGM1alZmaHJ6akl3SnRaOXVESGJYNlZZWFpNRXh5X3N2bE5wWVBvcXBOZG5oTHpYa0M4dlgtd1NC", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 27 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 27, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 208, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Walking the Streets of Havana, Cuba With the 35mm Film Canon AE-1 Program  Fstoppers", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Walking the Streets of Havana, Cuba With the 35mm Film Canon AE-1 Program  Fstoppers" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://fstoppers.com", + "title": "Fstoppers" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Voices: A Young Cuban-American's first time in Cuba\nauthor: Darek Michael Wajda\nurl: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/voices-young-cuban-american-s-first-time-cuba-n779646\nhostname: nbcnews.com\ndescription: In this Voices piece, Darek Wajda shares what his experience as he visited the country of his grandparents for the first time.\nsitename: NBC News\ndate: 2017-07-13\n---\nCuba, La Isla Bella. Words that resonated through my mind when boarding the United Airlines flight from Newark Airport direct to Havana, Cuba. Caught in a daydream, it was finally time to see the land where my grandparents were born.\n\nThere are many ways to welcome a first-time visitor to a country, after the turbulence and strong winds; it was a rather comforting feeling to finally touch done on the ground after the bumpy ride. Walking out onto the runway, the words Jose Mart\u00ed International Airport were in plain sight. The Cuban people stepped out and welcomed me to their beloved island.\n\n\u201cHave you been to Africa in the last 15 days\u201d, asked the clerk at the customs window. Looking around, assuming it had something to do with my straw hat I responded, \u201cIs it because of the hat?\u201d She laughed and then got serious, stating that everyone entering Cuba is asked the same question due to the Ebola cases that have impacted parts of Africa.\n\nAfter saying I had not been to Africa, I had a new stamp in my passport and I was off to the next checkpoint, which was baggage check. The security officers greeted me and noticed my funny Cuban-American accent. \u201cFirst time in Cuba?\u201d they asked.\n\n\u201cYes, I can\u2019t believe I\u2019m here, this all feels like a dream come true.\u201d\n\nExiting the airport, our driver Roenis was waiting for my friend Leandro and myself. We got into his 1950s Chevrolet and began the half an hour journey to Vedado, a district in Havana, Cuba, where we would be staying.\n\n**Related: Voices: My Return to My Childhood\u2019s Little Blue House in Mexico**\n\nOn the way there, the driver pointed out some murals on the wall. He started chuckling and mentioned how the one mural was of Fidel Castro and the other was of Camilo Cienfuegos. Laughing, he said that many visitors comment to him that the mural looks like Osama Bin Laden, and they curiously ask him, 'What in the world is Osama doing on a building in Havana, Cuba?\" Roenis reminded me of my barber back home who was born in Cuba. The Cuban humor, it never gets old.\n\nAfter pulling onto Calle 11 (11th Street), the driver told us we were at our destination. We were greeted by the owner of our AirBNB and she showed us around her building. Explaining the keys, touring the two-bedroom apartment, and seeing the beautiful view from her balcony, we felt at home, all for $40 a night. Peering over the balcony the image we saw spoke a thousand words. The colors were bright, the people were out, the energy was incredible, this is Havana, and it\u2019s alive.\n\nIt wasn\u2019t hard to notice shortly after looming over the balcony how run down the buildings were, noting the ones that were freshly painted and well kept belonged to the military or government.\n\nIt was time to explore Havana.\n\nWalking around the city, we got a chance to see a little bit of everything. You could see the old cars, the people in the streets, the smell of freshly cooked meals with garlic and onions overwhelming the smell from the exhaust pipes.\n\nWe were now at the Malec\u00f3n. The fresh scent of the sea breeze gracefully welcomed me, after only being able to see this breathtaking place in pictures and movies throughout the years.\n\nIt was finally in front of me, an arm\u2019s length away. Locals gathered on the ledge, perched on top of the wall, smoking their cigars, drinking native Cuban beers and playing music, filled with singing and laughing.\n\nThen we saw people gathered on street corners by the dozen, using their smartphones. It was time to investigate.\n\n**Related: Voices: After Decades, Our Family Is Reunited in Cuba**\n\nAs we got closer and asked, people explained how they got access to the Internet by buying WIFI cards, but in order to access them, they had to be in a hot spot area. We happened to be staying right above one, so we got to see what we thought was a strange sight at first, though it became something we adjusted to seeing.\n\nRoaming around, we asked young and old, men and women, what they normally use their WIFI cards for? \u201cFacebook, Instagram, Twitter\u201d were three of the most common answers.\n\nOthers mentioned how they have most of their family living in the United States, so they sit and join the community at the corner to get in touch with their families and most importantly, to see their children and grandchildren over video chat. In that corner, they were forging their ties outside of Cuba.\n\nWe asked an older gentleman in his late 60s what he thought about this new phenomenon. He started off with saying that this behavior was *\u201craro\u201d* (strange) because seeing the millennials glued to their phones was something he never saw before.\n\n**Related: Voices: How Standing Rock Sparked the Search for My Indigenous Roots**\n\nHe told us he looks to the younger generations to educate him and explain to him what\u2019s new and changing in today\u2019s world.\n\n*\u201cLos viejos tienen que ver que ahora los cosas est\u00e1n cambiando,\" *which translates to \"the old have to see that things are changing.\" Young people, he added, will be the ones to bring change and progress to Cuba.\n\n\u201cEs necesario.\" Cuba, he said, needs this.\n\nHe touched upon some political topics as well but asked us not to mention them. We observed that older generations are still more cautious about what they say and who they say it to.\n\nContinuing on with our journey, we were introduced to a second form of currency that we were unaware of. When we arrived in Cuba, we exchanged money in the airport and received about 85 CUC for every 100 American dollars we exchanged. The other currency is known as CUP. Although it\u2019s not common for a tourist to see this currency, we were given the ability to use it because of where we were staying; local businesses used it.\n\nThe difference is drastic. Unlike the strong CUC, the CUP was very weak; 100 American dollars was around 2400 CUP. After asking about the currencies, we noticed a trend. Anything government owned or run by the military, (ex. hotels, airports, government taxi\u2019s, restaurants, and tours) accepted the CUC currency. But in the more modest areas, if we ate food from a window shop or bought groceries, we could use the CUP.\n\nSome residents told us they had an impossible task trying to make it out poverty because of the extreme difference in money. We noticed this when we were using the taxis. A 15-minute ride in a government taxi was 10 CUC, about $11 American dollars. The same ride in a local Cuban person owned taxi would be 10 CUP, about .8 cents American.\n\nThe majority of tourists spend their time in Old Havana. Visiting this section, we caught different scenes \u2014 the vast collection of 1950s antique cars, tons of children playing soccer in the streets and the unique way locals used Cuban-owned taxis.\n\nNoticing how locals used the taxis was fascinating. Local Cuban-owned taxis operate differently than government owned ones. The local cabs come in a variety of colors, collectivos antiguos, what a native would call them. These cabs run up and down certain avenues where users hop into the ones that are traveling in their direction. Depending on how many seats are filled, open seats are filled by other passengers traveling in the same direction. This system reminded me of UberPool.\n\nWe also saw quite a number of interracial couples. We asked how people felt about race disparities and racism. We asked the same questions to different people, but the answer was clear. \"Here in Cuba there is no color, we're all Cubans, *\"y no hay un color de piel para ser eso\u201d* (\"there's no skin color for Cuban.\")\n\nWrapping up the trip that was indeed a short one, the Cuban people welcomed me with open arms and allowed me take part in their culture. Until next time, thank you for sharing your special island with me." + }, + { + "title": "Voices: A Young Cuban-American's First Time in Cuba - NBC News", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Voices: A Young Cuban-American's First Time in Cuba - NBC News" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMikwFBVV95cUxNLWZVZ0l1ZzRyTHhOcXh2YnQyc3ZqNkJfbl9NZVQzMVVveExaT04xX0VMZi0zNlYzbXBnanUwbXY4MmtXZlFSU0lxSk1lOFJuWXlNRGhWUFFibTNfSE1qR0MwdllvSXlHSWJMNVBPb2FSNU5peTExbGJYQWdrb3lCbWhRel9LeHpBcGN5THB6WHZLWlk?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://fstoppers.com/film/walking-streets-havana-cuba-35mm-film-canon-ae-1-program-187800", + "id": "CBMikwFBVV95cUxNLWZVZ0l1ZzRyTHhOcXh2YnQyc3ZqNkJfbl9NZVQzMVVveExaT04xX0VMZi0zNlYzbXBnanUwbXY4MmtXZlFSU0lxSk1lOFJuWXlNRGhWUFFibTNfSE1qR0MwdllvSXlHSWJMNVBPb2FSNU5peTExbGJYQWdrb3lCbWhRel9LeHpBcGN5THB6WHZLWlk", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 13, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 194, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Voices: A Young Cuban-American's First Time in Cuba  NBC News", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Voices: A Young Cuban-American's First Time in Cuba  NBC News" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.nbcnews.com", + "title": "NBC News" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Walking the Streets of Havana, Cuba With the 35mm Film Canon AE-1 Program | Fstoppers\nauthor: Www Facebook Com; Stephenatohi; Stephen Atohi\nurl: https://fstoppers.com/film/walking-streets-havana-cuba-35mm-film-canon-ae-1-program-187800\nhostname: fstoppers.com\ndescription: Back in April, I ventured on a trip to Havana, Cuba with the lofty goal of capturing the culture and people there within with my favorite little 35mm film camera. With the recent news that President Trump plans on buckling down on all travel and trade to Cuba, I'm all the more grateful than ever to have made the trip when I did. The Cuban experience is easily the most surreal of any international travel that I have ever experienced.\nsitename: Fstoppers\ndate: 2017-07-27\ncategories: ['Film Photography']\n---\nBack in April, I ventured on a trip to Havana, Cuba with the lofty goal of capturing the culture and people there within with my favorite little 35mm film camera. With the recent news that President Trump plans on buckling down on all travel and trade to Cuba, I'm all the more grateful than ever to have made the trip when I did. The Cuban experience is easily the most surreal of any international travel that I have ever experienced.\n\nThe natural inclination when most of us think about Cuba, is to think about vintage cars and cigars. My experience in Cuba was so much more than that. Cuba is other-worldly. Cuba is an alternate universe take on the Latin American culture. Cuba is both what is and what could have been. To understand how this place developed into this phantasmagoric destination, we need only look into the recent past of its people. Cuba has a unique political and societal journey over the last 60 years that has left it unmolested, from a certain point of view, but also wildly underdeveloped and forced from another.\n\nAnd then of course, it's film. You hear it all the time, but it's useful to say again anyway, you can't beat the visual aesthetic that goes along with film. Especially for a city in Cuba that is stuck in the 1950s like Havana is. It's just perfect. The heavy grain, the colors, all of it. There's an additional layer specific to Cuba as well. Even before Trump's announcement of more stringent travel boundaries, Cuba was very weary of camera equipment. For example, it's a federal offense to use a drone at all. In general, I'm a big fan of a slim camera bag while traveling, but in this case, it was even more true.\n\nWhat makes Cuba truly unique is the clear and vibrant Latin American culture that has been distorted by the taint of political communist revolution. On one hand, the people are open, friendly, loud, and bright, but it's counterbalanced by a dominant government hand. For example, in order to access the internet, you need to purchase \"internet cards\", which are only sold by the government. Think of going to the DMV every time you needed to access the internet. We waited in line for an hour to purchase ours. Many of the restaurants are government sponsored as well, which simply means that their menus, quantities, prices, and ingredients are all standard across the board. In fact, the only restaurants who are allowed to deviate from this standard are the ones built in homes. The strong government hand is why we see so many vintage cars. Back in 1960, Cuban officials took possession of US businesses in Cuba, and the US government put a trade embargo on them lasting for nearly 60 years. The cars are just the outward symptom of something evident throughout the entire country: Cuba is just now leaving the 1950s.Below is a collection of my photos from my trip. What's your favorite walking around setup? Do you plan to travel to Cuba soon? Want to read more about my trip to Cuba or see more of my other travels with my little 35mm film camera? You can check those out here at my personal blog. Comment below!\n\n## 16 Comments\n\nbeautiful shots, just one question : wich lenses did you use for your trip ?\n\nWell, thank you!\n\nThe only lens I take is the 50mm 1.4 FD SSC.\n\ndid you have any trouble bringing in camera gear? I heard that customs can be a nightmare and I dont need them taking my 5k+ camera lens combo\n\nNo issues at all, you just can not bring any drones. I took a bag with a leica m, many lenses, sony rx1, fujifilm instamax and go pro, and no one cared. Pictures here are nice, but refer to the same places everyone shoots when they go to Cuba, if you want something new you need to get away from were everyone goes... I was in Cuba with the family so also shot touristic places :) But if you want something interesting you really need to search...these are some of mine :) https://ailukewitsch.wordpress.com/2015/10/27/quick-visit-to-cuba/\n\nWe had no problems bringing in what we did. A DSLR, a point and shoot, and my film camera.\n\nThe title caught my attention with the Canon AE-1P. I don't own the AE-1, but I own the cousin, A-1, which I bought in 1980 and still use today. I also added a used New F-1; with two film cameras, one is loaded with B&W and the other with color. My favorite films are Kodak Portra 400 (general purpose), Ektar 100 (outdoors), and Kodak Tri-X (general purpose); I should try Fuji film before Fuji gets out of the film business.\n\nCuba is on my bucket list of places to visit. I'd love to be able to photograph the old cars. But that doesn't seem possible now that Trump is doing his best to erase that Obama was ever president.\n\nI enjoyed reading your blog and seeing the photos. My wife and I were friends with a Cuban refugee who fled Cuba when Castro took over; Enrique passed away over 20 years ago.\n\nI still use my A-1s. :)\n\nI have a couple of them too :) Hard to beat, and that FD glass is just great\n\nI've thought about buying a second one, so that I could load them up with different film stocks. Great input, Ralph! I may just do that now.\n\nI've always wanted an F-1. When I saw a used one for sale, with the AE Finder FN and AE Motor Drive FN, I mentioned it to my wife and she asked \"That's their flagship?\" I answered \"Yes, for the 80's\" and she said \"Buy it.\" It was so I could share my FD lenses, but I found having two solved the color vs. B&W problem.\n\nBeautiful photos, I have an AT-1 that I have just started using, I love it\n\nI have the exact same camera lens combo and I loved using it but I always seem to have a hard time figuring out the light meter. It reads a bunch of numbers instead of being an old school needle that I'm used to. Do those numbers mean I should be at that f-stop? or is it just a weird thing canon did? My mamiya 645 does the same thing so I'm not really that confident reading the built in light meters.\n\nWhats a general reading for a good exposure?\n\nHey, there is a light meter and it is a reference to the f-stop! I normally set my shutter first, before I even look to see what f-stop it's recommending. For example, if I'm in low light, I just automatically put the shutter down to something like 60 or 125. If I'm in harsh light, I just immediately put it at 1000. In both examples, that gives me more control over the f-stop. I also have a Sekonic light meter that I'll use in stranger light situations, the on board one isn't perfect. And last, sometimes I'll set up the shot with a DSLR, if the lighting situation is really complicated.\n\nHope that helps!\n\nNice set of photos! I just came back from Cuba as well and did a similar project. I took a Leica M3 from 1962, the same year as the US embargo, and shot around Havana and Trinidad. It felt wrong to try and capture Cuba with a shiny new DSLR. I shot on a 50mm as well and used Potra400 and Viva50 slide film. A set of selects are on my website. http://www.caseyberner.com/cuba\n\nI'm very curious to know if you had any challenges getting your film into the country. Did you have a lead lined bag or were the security folks willing to do a hand inspection of your film?\n\nI'm actually wondering the same thing - did you have a hard time travelling with your undeveloped films? Or did you get them processed whilst you were there? If so, where please :-)\n\nYour photos are beautiful, I'm excited to shoot my own next week!" + }, + { + "title": "Educators explore Cuban culture via Stone Center institute - Tulane University News", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Educators explore Cuban culture via Stone Center institute - Tulane University News" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiiwFBVV95cUxQRDVGako1aVVIS2NkYzJqMFhocjU0aGVNbExDM1VtX3BINGF4V0hTbklhenhqcUtaamkzN0RVd0FDUXQyVlY1NV9mYXlGNFhKMmxWTTdZM182UkN4Nlc4SktfN0pnT3prWEJhU2hXS3psbC15ZFZqbGtLUlFNaHFMeDR4dFdMV0JYYjl3?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://news.tulane.edu/news/educators-explore-cuban-culture-stone-center-institute", + "id": "CBMiiwFBVV95cUxQRDVGako1aVVIS2NkYzJqMFhocjU0aGVNbExDM1VtX3BINGF4V0hTbklhenhqcUtaamkzN0RVd0FDUXQyVlY1NV9mYXlGNFhKMmxWTTdZM182UkN4Nlc4SktfN0pnT3prWEJhU2hXS3psbC15ZFZqbGtLUlFNaHFMeDR4dFdMV0JYYjl3", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 31 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 31, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 212, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Educators explore Cuban culture via Stone Center institute  Tulane University News", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Educators explore Cuban culture via Stone Center institute  Tulane University News" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://news.tulane.edu", + "title": "Tulane University News" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "A Long Weekend in Cuba (And Why You Really Need to Visit Now) - Vogue", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "A Long Weekend in Cuba (And Why You Really Need to Visit Now) - Vogue" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMibEFVX3lxTE14SE5ncnA2akJwZFZVVmtRVXN4T28wNHU4ZHpkT0FQU015Z1R1el9xUjBDN2t4M2ZRXzF3UG93QUxsY0p1VFNMRUY3UXRtMllTbkxyaV9PYnBITm5jankyVzFKd0R2ZjdFOTNRbA?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.vogue.com/article/cuba-long-weekend-travel-guide", + "id": "CBMibEFVX3lxTE14SE5ncnA2akJwZFZVVmtRVXN4T28wNHU4ZHpkT0FQU015Z1R1el9xUjBDN2t4M2ZRXzF3UG93QUxsY0p1VFNMRUY3UXRtMllTbkxyaV9PYnBITm5jankyVzFKd0R2ZjdFOTNRbA", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 27 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 27, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 208, + 0 + ], + "summary": "A Long Weekend in Cuba (And Why You Really Need to Visit Now)  Vogue", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "A Long Weekend in Cuba (And Why You Really Need to Visit Now)  Vogue" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.vogue.com", + "title": "Vogue" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: A Long Weekend in Cuba (And Why You Really Need to Visit Now)\nauthor: Rachel Waldman\nurl: https://www.vogue.com/article/cuba-long-weekend-travel-guide\nhostname: vogue.com\ndescription: Cuba may not be the first destination that comes to mind when contemplating a quick break, but if you\u2019re on the East Coast, it\u2019s such an easy trip.\nsitename: Vogue\ndate: 2017-07-27\ncategories: ['living']\n---\nSure, we all fantasize of the day when we\u2019ll have a week (or a few!) to devote to the vacation of our dreams\u2014but really, who has the time? With the height of summer upon us, it\u2019s high time to book your next long weekend getaway. Because every moment counts when you\u2019re traveling for three days\u2014and because location is everything when you\u2019re in a time crunch\u2014why not set your sight on someplace special?\n\nCuba may not be the first destination that comes to mind when contemplating a quick break, but if you\u2019re in New York, consider the facts: You can count on spending three hours (if you\u2019re lucky) in bumper-to-bumper traffic en route to the Hamptons\u2014or you can hop a nonstop flight that will have you in Havana in three hours, easy. And with our current President cracking down on both travel and commercial ties relating to Cuba, there\u2019s truly no time like the present to visit. Below, the best places eat, dance, sleep, and see art upon arrival.\n\n**Where to Stay**\n\nPart of the appeal of\u2014or depending on who you ask, challenge of\u2014visiting Havana is that it\u2019s not yet filled with the kinds of boutique hotels you might find on say, another Caribbean island. While government-owned hotels are certainly a viable option, they are likely to be flooded with tourists\u2014and you can be sure they\u2019ll cost you a pretty peso. Instead, good ol\u2019 B and Bs\u2014or *casa particulares* as they\u2019re called in Cuba\u2014(like Flor y Manu, which is located in the heart of Centro Havana) are the way to go. If you\u2019re ready to rough it a bit, you\u2019re guaranteed to receive an authentic experience, great hospitality, and the best home-cooked breakfast. If you feel like splurging, check into Paseo 206, a restored eight-room colonial mansion tucked away on one of the most trafficked streets near Plaza de la Revoluci\u00f3n. Alternatively, La Reserva, a converted mansion in Vedado, strikes the perfect balance between retro charm and modern luxuries.\n\n**Where to Eat**\n\nThe vibe in Cuba is generally laid-back and chill. The rise of privately run restaurants (aka *paladares*) vary from off-the-beaten-path operations, like Santy Pescador, to the sleek-and-chic, like Atelier, that bring a dash of style with savory food. Le Chansonnier, a family-run fine restaurant hidden in a townhome on a side street in Vedado, is easy to drive by and miss\u2014but that doesn\u2019t mean you should miss out. And of course, no visit to Havana is complete without a little live music. Don\u2019t be fooled by Casa Miglis\u2019s Swedish roots. The oh-so-cool refuge offers up some of the best ceviche and is a reliable spot for everything from reggaeton to salsa to merengue. If you\u2019re seeking heart-stopping 360-degree views of the city, climb up the spiral stairs of El Cocinero, which gives way to a rooftop of strung lights and sharable dishes. Day or night, it\u2019s a flytrap for an interesting and influential cast of characters. Be aware, though: Ask for a coffee and you\u2019ll be handed the potent island variety. Love it or hate it, you\u2019ll certainly remember it.\n\n**What to Do**\n\nTake a drive along the Malec\u00f3n, the curvy seaside stretch of road that wraps around the city, in an old and slow Chevy (all the better to take in the breathtaking seascape). Channel Ernest Hemingway with a walk along the Prado. Bookworms must visit El Floridita, where the late literary writer made frequent stops between writing to sip on the mojitos. Once you\u2019re fully hydrated, hit the bustling streets of Old Havana and stop into sweet spots like Clandestina, an art studio meets atelier, where you can pick up silkscreen-printed T-shirts and totes. Last but not least, a trip to F\u00e1brica de Arte is sure to be the highlight of your stay in Havana.\n\nDuring open hours (Thursday through Sunday nights), the factory space is filled to the brim with locals and visitors alike. Here, culture and conversation comingle, and because there\u2019s so much art to see, live music to hear, and local clothing and accessories to shop, it\u2019s easy to lose track of time. After you complete your walk through, finish off the evening with a nightcap at the open-ceiling bar." + }, + { + "title": "Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home - WCS Newsroom", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home - WCS Newsroom" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMivgFBVV95cUxQNmpNYUhPM2hDVDE0d3ZyQWFVQUVrVkQ3RmlBNEZ0ZmZDajhqUENxQnQ3U2l1eGhhOTJGbFgyQVp5em02SWN4UmNkRXUyc0ZoZ0kxeVZiaWViajBkdVFQcGo4dHU4UGFhVlZhY3BnZ1R4cHdyUUFCZ1FzNEJWazlGSGJMdGxEci1MRkJsTnc3YlVWNTRsRTNXT05KNm92OVhhd3N3UkpYTG4yeXY3ai1HdDg1MEpXM2ZhX0pRNHBn?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://newsroom.wcs.org/News-Releases/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/10283/Endangered-Cuban-Crocodiles-Come-Home.aspx", + "id": "CBMivgFBVV95cUxQNmpNYUhPM2hDVDE0d3ZyQWFVQUVrVkQ3RmlBNEZ0ZmZDajhqUENxQnQ3U2l1eGhhOTJGbFgyQVp5em02SWN4UmNkRXUyc0ZoZ0kxeVZiaWViajBkdVFQcGo4dHU4UGFhVlZhY3BnZ1R4cHdyUUFCZ1FzNEJWazlGSGJMdGxEci1MRkJsTnc3YlVWNTRsRTNXT05KNm92OVhhd3N3UkpYTG4yeXY3ai1HdDg1MEpXM2ZhX0pRNHBn", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 13, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 194, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home  WCS Newsroom", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home  WCS Newsroom" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://newsroom.wcs.org", + "title": "WCS Newsroom" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Endangered Cuban Crocodiles Come Home\nurl: https://newsroom.wcs.org/News-Releases/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/10283/Endangered-Cuban-Crocodiles-Come-Home.aspx\nhostname: newsroom.wcs.org\ndescription: HAVANA, Cuba (July 13, 2017) \u2013 Experts from WCS\u2019s Global Conservation Programs and WCS\u2019s Bronx Zoo assisted Cuban conservationists in the recent release of 10 Cuban crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer) into Cuba\u2019s Zapata Swamp as part of an ongoing recovery strategy for thi\nsitename: newsroom.wcs.org\ndate: 2017-07-13\ntags: ['Latin America and Caribbean, Conservation and Communities, Protected Area Planning, Creation, Management, Wildlife Managment, Bronx Zoo, Cuban crocodile']\n---\n\nHAVANA, Cuba (July 13, 2017) \u2013 Experts from WCS\u2019s Global Conservation Programs and WCS\u2019s Bronx Zoo assisted Cuban conservationists in the recent release of 10 Cuban crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer) into Cuba\u2019s Zapata Swamp as part of an ongoing recovery strategy for this Critically Endangered species.\n\nThese genetically pure crocodiles came from a breeding facility near the Zapata swamp. Hybridization with American crocodiles, which occur in the Southwestern tip of the Zapata Peninsula, is an ongoing issue and has contributed to the Cuban crocodile\u2019s continuing decline. Cuban crocodiles face other threats, such as an increase in illegal hunting in recent years, so the release of captive bred Cuban crocodiles and the protection of these reptiles from poaching and hybridization is critical to the survival of the species in the wild.\n\nThe crocodiles were released in the Wildlife Refuge Channels of Hanabana (Refugio de Fauna Canales de Han\u00e1bana) \u2013 a 570 hectare (1,400 acre) mosaic of water channels, lagoons, marsh grasslands, and swamp forests in the easternmost Zapata Peninsula where Cuban crocodiles historically occurred. Marsh grasslands in this refuge provide crucial habitat for not only Cuban crocodiles, but prey including bird, fish and mammal species. No American crocodiles or hybrids are found in this Wildlife Refuge.\n\nThe recent release, which took place on June 8th, is the second reintroduction since Cuba started to release Cuban crocodiles in 2016. The decision to release the crocodiles followed a workshop of crocodile experts organized by WCS and Cuban institutions, including the Fundaci\u00f3n Antonio Nu\u00f1ez Jim\u00e9nez, CITMA Ci\u00e9naga de Zapata, and Empresa Nacional para la Protecci\u00f3n de la Flora y la Fauna. The workshop brought together 40 Cuban nationals working for the conservation of crocodiles in Cuba, and 30 international experts.\n\nThe workshop resulted in a series of agreed priorities for improving the conservation of crocodiles, including: strengthening the research and monitoring of Cuban crocodiles in the wild; increasing efforts to reintroduce and monitor reintroduced animals in Channels of Hanabana; working with local communities to reduce poaching through alternative livelihoods and environmental education; and working with local authorities to strengthen compliance to reduce illegal selling of crocodile meat.\n\nSaid Natalia Rossi, WCS Cuba Program Manager: \u201cThis workshop was important because it enabled the second release of Cuban crocodiles into the wild and motivated all participants to do even more to save this critically endangered species. Our workshop was fundamental to bring everyone together to share the work being done to save the Cuban crocodile.\u201d\n\nThe critically endangered Cuban crocodile has the smallest, most restricted geographic distribution among all living crocodilian species, being only found in parts of the Zapata and Lanier swamps. Historically it was found throughout the Zapata Peninsula, but indiscriminate hunting for skins beginning in the second half of the 19th century and lasting until the early 1960s decimated most populations. Today, Cuban crocodiles inhabit a territory of about 77,600 hectares (191,700 acres), sharing habitat with the American crocodile and the hybrids of both species.\n\nWCS\u2019s John Thorbjarnarson began working on Cuban crocodiles in the 1990s, and WCS\u2019s Bronx Zoo was the first U.S. zoo to successfully breed Cuban crocodiles. The first one hatched in 1983; six more hatched in 1984, and 21 in 1985. There has been no reproduction since then, but the zoo has a new young pair of crocodiles that will be introduced to each other late this year.\n\nKevin Torregrosa, Herpetology Collections Manager for WCS\u2019s Bronx Zoo, attended the workshop to establish collaboration opportunities with individuals working with crocodiles in the breeding centers as well as with wild populations.\n\nSaid Torregrosa: \u201cCuba is a fairly isolated island and getting the chance to see the conservation effort in practice was very enlightening. I believe the Cubans were very happy to have the opportunity to show the international community the work that they have been doing.\u201d\n\nWCS\u2019s Cuba Program has helped establish strong collaborations in the pursuit of safeguarding the island nation\u2019s wildlife and natural resources. In addition to working to conserve both Cuban and American crocodiles in Zapata and Birama Swamps, WCS has helped protect raptors in the inland forests of eastern Cuba and shark species inhabiting the rich coastal waters of Jardines de la Reina National Park. WCS-Cuba has partnered with national agencies to help train three generations of conservation educators and decision makers through professional exchanges and applied ecological teaching, and worked to balance conservation with support for local livelihoods and culture.\n\nJoin more than one million wildlife lovers working to save the Earth's most treasured and threatened species.\n\nThanks for signing up" + }, + { + "title": "Leonardo Padura on a Lost Generation of Cubans, and the Arrogance of Trump - CrimeReads", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Leonardo Padura on a Lost Generation of Cubans, and the Arrogance of Trump - CrimeReads" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMimAFBVV95cUxNdWludjhsOTdwN21YZkxrS1Nyb2Q3SXJ6WXBiSEo4UDhjX3JORi1Nd1JaQnpiNkZjX2Rsd2dOcjZLdjVkTGU1U2diYTJXX1IzUTRhSkZHSGdiLVNPUFNQNW40ZGpPcjRIRGZUYjBxUGFkX1F1czlyLTRsd0VfUnVXMW9RYXpXMW9HeWNhXzNxampIdk4tLTNJMg?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://theconversation.com/can-donald-trump-change-cuba-79734", + "id": "CBMimAFBVV95cUxNdWludjhsOTdwN21YZkxrS1Nyb2Q3SXJ6WXBiSEo4UDhjX3JORi1Nd1JaQnpiNkZjX2Rsd2dOcjZLdjVkTGU1U2diYTJXX1IzUTRhSkZHSGdiLVNPUFNQNW40ZGpPcjRIRGZUYjBxUGFkX1F1czlyLTRsd0VfUnVXMW9RYXpXMW9HeWNhXzNxampIdk4tLTNJMg", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 12 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 12, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 193, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Leonardo Padura on a Lost Generation of Cubans, and the Arrogance of Trump  CrimeReads", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Leonardo Padura on a Lost Generation of Cubans, and the Arrogance of Trump  CrimeReads" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://crimereads.com", + "title": "CrimeReads" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Can Donald Trump change Cuba?\nauthor: Ram\u00f3n I Centeno\nurl: https://theconversation.com/can-donald-trump-change-cuba-79734\nhostname: theconversation.com\ndescription: Trump\u2019s revamped old policy could have a paradoxical effect on Cuba, seriously damaging the country\u2019s economy while actually galvanising its political system.\nsitename: The Conversation\ndate: 2017-07-05\n---\nDonald Trump has ended America\u2019s d\u00e9tente with Cuba, restoring restrictions on travel to and business with the Caribbean island nation.\n\nIn December 2014, Cuban president Ra\u00fal Castro and then US president Barack Obama announced in simultaneous speeches that after a 50-year stand off, diplomatic relations between the two nations would be \u201cnormalised\u201d, reopening embassies in Havana and Washington and enabling American citizens to visit Cuba relatively freely.\n\nUnder Trump\u2019s new rules, which are really a return to the old American policy of isolation, Trump has reaffirmed \u201cthe United States statutory embargo of Cuba\u201d. The embassies will remain (for now) but the flow of US tourists and dollars is severely restrained for the foreseeable future.\n\nIn his June 16 speech in Miami, Trump also took aim at Cuba\u2019s military (the Revolutionary Armed Forces, or FAR in Spanish) and said that he would \u201cexpose the crimes of the Castro regime.\u201d\n\nIn Trump\u2019s old-school approach, any improvement of US-Cuba relations will now depend on political change in Havana, with Washington monitoring \u201cCuba\u2019s progress \u2014 if any \u2014 toward greater political and economic freedom\u201d.\n\nCuba\u2019s response was swift and defiant. \u201cThe Cuban government denounces the new measures hardening the blockade that are destined to fail \u2026 and that will not achieve their aim of weakening the revolution\u201d, read a statement from Havana announced on the evening news.\n\nIndeed, rather than spur political transition, Trump\u2019s revamped old policy will more likely have a paradoxical effect on Cuba, seriously damaging the economy while actually galvanising the political system.\n\n## An indirect military battle\n\nCuba may not be the same regime that the US embargo was designed to debilitate, but it is still governed by the same civil-military coalition.\n\nThe Communist Party embodies Cuba\u2019s commitment to anti-capitalist ideals, building consent among civil society. The FAR, which comprises ground, naval and aerial military forces as well as the Youth Labour Army, is the institutionalised expression of Cuban nationalism.\n\nIts goal is to ensure readiness against any external threat. Historically, that\u2019s been the US.\n\nThis is the force that the US president is taking on with his new economic policy. Since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1990, which left Cuba alone in a \u201ccapitalist sea\u201d, the FAR has been deeply involved in economic management.\n\nCastro\u2019s current \u201ceconomy czar\u201d, Marino Murillo, is a FAR-trained economist, and the FAR is also home to the Business Management Group, or GAESA, which receives around 50% of hard-currency Cuban earnings. GAESA is present in virtually all sectors of the Cuban economy, including tourism, which will be among the areas hardest hit by Trump\u2019s revamped policy.\n\nTrump actually kept in place one key aspect of Obama\u2019s approach: earning the trust of Cuban small businesses. But he added a twist. Where Obama sought \u201cto empower the nascent Cuban private sector\u201d, Trump will channel \u201ceconomic activities away from the Cuban military\u201d while continuing to allow American individuals and entities to develop economic ties in Cuba.\n\nIn reducing tourism, the new US policy explicitly seeks to block the flow of US dollars to the military-led GAESA. In the years just prior to Obama\u2019s 2015 detente, the number of Americans travelling to Cuba oscillated between 60,000 to 100,000. In 2015, it grew to 160,000. The next year, some 290,000 US tourists visited the island.\n\nAmericans still account for just 7% of the island\u2019s international tourists (second to Canada, which sent 1.2 million visitors). But any contraction in that sector will have a negative economic effect on Cuba, which earned US$2.9 billion from tourism in 2016, up from US$2.4 billion in 2014.\n\nTrump\u2019s new policy will mean less hard currency in the hands of the Cuban state. This reduces its ability to buy commodities from the international market, ranging from energy to \u2013 critically \u2013 food. Cuba currently imports more than 60% of its domestic food requirements.\n\nThis difficult economic situation is compounded by the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, a regional ally that is no longer a reliable source of cheap oil.\n\n## The US monster reawakens\n\nFor more than 50 years, the US embargo served as a potent tool for the Communist Party, enabling it to survive through scarcity and turmoil by presenting itself as a bulwark against an imperial US set on subjugating the Cuban people to its will.\n\nAmong Cubans, the US is sometimes referred to simply as *el monstruo* \u2013 \u201cthe monster\u201d \u2013 a nickname first used by revolutionary Jose Marti in 1895.\n\nBy attacking GAESA based on the (demonstrably errant) idea \u2013 shared by both Obama and Trump \u2013 that capitalism brings democracy, Trump is more likely to feed the anti-imperialist sentiment of the Cuban military, strengthening its relevance.\n\nMuch as Fidel Castro did throughout the 20th century, the FAR is now well positioned to capitalise on being under US attack, portraying the Cuban military at the front line of the anti-Trump movement. Already, the return of the hawkish attitude in Washington has revived the old televised calls on the island for Cubans to unite against the eternal threat lying just across the Florida Strait.\n\nHavana also pointed out the hypocrisy in Trump\u2019s claim that human rights are at the core of his Cuba policy.\n\n\u201cWe have serious worries about the respect and guarantee of human rights in that country,\u201d Havana replied, referring to well-publicised American injustices such as police violence, gun crime, racial discrimination, lack of health care, gender inequality and accounts of torture at the Guant\u00e1namo Bay prison, which sits on occupied Cuban land.\n\nThere also remains the glaring contradiction in Washington demanding political change from Cuba while turning a blind eye to authoritarianism in Saudi Arabia and Israel\u2019s occupation of Palestinian land, for example.\n\nCuba is no democracy. Inspired by China and Vietnam, Ra\u00fal Castro has tried to reform the economy while maintaining a one-party system, and the regime continues to censor the media and repress political dissidence.\n\nIn re-embargoing Cuba, Trump is certainly adding an obstacle to Ra\u00fal Castro\u2019s economic plans, but doing so won\u2019t change Cuba for the better. Instead, transgressing the country\u2019s hard-won sovereignty will only strengthen the political forces there that oppose democracy." + }, + { + "title": "Can Donald Trump change Cuba? - The Conversation", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Can Donald Trump change Cuba? - The Conversation" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMib0FVX3lxTE4tQ3pqcTlEUldSa21XSHNFbndveXdrMF9kREs5bG5fNjViUGhSZUdsbmMzMC10Z1Bfdm1MLUVlczljWkxtLXAzeWtuMko4S0VOcXhIWUxUNkFrVE0weHNKbVc2YVZ2T2JCdTRtUzg5UQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://crimereads.com/leon-padura-on-a-lost-generation-of-cubans-and-the-arrogance-of-trump/", + "id": "CBMib0FVX3lxTE4tQ3pqcTlEUldSa21XSHNFbndveXdrMF9kREs5bG5fNjViUGhSZUdsbmMzMC10Z1Bfdm1MLUVlczljWkxtLXAzeWtuMko4S0VOcXhIWUxUNkFrVE0weHNKbVc2YVZ2T2JCdTRtUzg5UQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 05 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 5, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 186, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Can Donald Trump change Cuba?  The Conversation", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Can Donald Trump change Cuba?  The Conversation" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://theconversation.com", + "title": "The Conversation" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Leonardo Padura on a Lost Generation of Cubans, and the Arrogance of Trump\nauthor: Dwyer Murphy\nurl: https://crimereads.com/leon-padura-on-a-lost-generation-of-cubans-and-the-arrogance-of-trump/\nhostname: crimereads.com\ndescription: At this point, it\u2019s fair to wonder whether relations between the US and Cuba will ever really be \u201cnormal.\u201d Only a hundred miles separate the two countries, but a wide gulf of history and grievance \u2026\nsitename: CrimeReads\ndate: 2017-07-12\n---\nAt this point, it\u2019s fair to wonder whether relations between the US and Cuba will ever really be \u201cnormal.\u201d Only a hundred miles separate the two countries, but a wide gulf of history and grievance make that distance seem further. In December 2014, President Obama began a series of reforms aimed at easing travel and trade between the two nations. The move was seen by many as long overdue and the only reasonable course forward, though some in the Florida exile community and conservative political circles argued that the new measures would somehow bolster the Castro regime. Now, with a trip to Miami and a photo-op alongside his once belittled adversary, Marco Rubio, President Trump recently announced plans to rollback the Obama-era reforms. While a few special interests will be preserved, the hope of opening relations seems to be dashed, at least for now.\n\nOn learning the news, I reached out to Leonardo Padura, the Cuban author who has mastered and transcended the crime fiction genre, and who, more than any politician in Havana or Miami, has earned the right to speak about life on the island and the uncertain future Cubans now face.\n\nPadura was born in the outskirts of Havana and lives there still. For decades, he has been among Cuba\u2019s most celebrated literary voices. His reputation, and his passion for the Cuban people, allow him a degree of liberty in portraying the ambiguities and underbelly of island life. *Heretics*, his most recent novel to be released in the US, is a portrait of Jewish life in Havana and an exploration of the intricacies of national identity. It\u2019s also a detective novel, a story about murder, a stolen painting, and the rum-soaked musings of Padura\u2019s most famous creation, Mario Conde, the bookish, romantic detective. Conde, long a favorite among crime fiction aficionados in Latin America and Europe, is now enjoying a surge in the US, too, thanks to the new Netflix series, *Four Seasons in Havana*, based on Padura\u2019s work. Padura adapted the show along with his wife, the screenwriter Lucia L\u00f3pez Coll, and saw to it filming was done in Havana.\n\n*Heretics* and *Four Seasons in Havana* are part of a cultural exchange that may prove elusive if the curtain between Cuba and the US is drawn again. So I took the opportunity to ask Padura about the Trump regime, the view from Havana, prospects for the future, and why the world keeps betraying refugees.\n\n**Dwyer Murphy: **(A few weeks back) President Trump announced he\u2019s effectively closing off relations between the US and Cuba once again. Can you tell me a little about the view from Cuba? It must be hard to stay open-minded in the face of so much cynicism.\n\n**Leon Padura:** It\u2019s not a question of cynicism so much as stupidity, the lack of any real political sense. Because if there\u2019s anything that can destabilize Cuban society and even the Cuban political system, it\u2019s a dynamic relationship with the United States. But Trump, in his arrogance and with the debts he owes to certain politicians opposed to relations with Cuba, is intent on doing the opposite, on closing what could be opened and toughening his rhetoric. From Cuba that will provoke a predictable response, causing it to close off to everything the United States government says, raise the flags like a city under siege, harden its positions and not change what could be changed\u2026 It\u2019s a vicious circle, a nightmare from which it seems we Cubans will never wake.\n\nThe hostile attitude merely plays into the hands of the extremists and fundamentalists, who are having a field day everywhere, and far from changing anything will only reinforce our stagnant positions. I don\u2019t know where you stand on this\u2014although I can guess from your questions\u2014but I don\u2019t see how anyone can fail to comprehend that smooth relations between the United States and Cuba would be the better policy, at least if the goal really is to change things on the island.\n\n**DM: **Had life in Cuba changed much over the last two years, since the thaw with the US began?** **\n\n**LP:** Actually there have been no great changes, and very few as a result of the new political situation with the United States. I think the biggest obstacle has been the continuation of the embargo, which has held back, or forestalled altogether, new relations in all things pertaining to the economy, from business deals and investments to contracts for baseball players. It\u2019s true that more American \u201cvisitors\u201d are coming to Cuba (not tourists, who aren\u2019t permitted under the embargo), and that means an additional influx of money, but it isn\u2019t much yet, and it tends to stay concentrated in certain social and economic sectors related to tourism, among them a significant portion of Cuba\u2019s small-business owners. It\u2019s also true that the Cuban government has turned down other possibilities, such as American artists and producers coming to work on the island, which has been practically ruled out, or opening up access to the Internet. I think there ought to be more openness on both sides, but realistically, with the restrictions of the embargo, there\u2019s little more we can do than maintain embassies in our respective capitals.\n\n**DM: **For many Americans, your work is one of the few windows into everyday life in Cuba. Are there aspects of Cuban society that you feel are unappreciated by outsiders, that you feel a responsibility or inclination to capture in your books?\n\n**LP:** All realities have their peculiarities and singularities that are hard to understand for those who don\u2019t live them day by day, who don\u2019t belong to that culture or time period. Many people in the world, for example, couldn\u2019t understand how it was possible for Donald Trump to become president of the United States, and rivers of ink have flowed in trying to explain that election.\n\nWith Cuba, a country that\u2019s small but at the same time closely watched, the situation is even more complicated because we are politically, economically and socially so peculiar. That entails a challenge for the artist who works with the materia prima of our peculiarly Cuban reality. The novel, for instance, is not intended to explain reality. It is enough to show it, to connote rather than denote, as Hemingway called for with his iceberg technique. But when showing something that others won\u2019t understand for lack of information, or may misunderstand because the information they do have is manipulated, a novelist feels the temptation to be a little more explicit, and that\u2019s very dangerous because it can lead you into the terrain of journalism, the essay or, even worse, *Costumbrismo*.\n\nI\u2019m interested in writing about Cuba precisely because it is a peculiar country\u2014and therefore a highly \u201cnovelistic\u201d one\u2014and because it\u2019s the reality I live and know. And no doubt that does imply a responsibility, all the more so when you consider that as a writer you have the chance to reach audiences outside your own country. The solution, then, is both very simple and very complex: you attempt to avoid parochialism and, by working from an inner reality, to tap in to the universal. That is my aim, and I try to live up to it whenever I write\u2026 And I hope I have.\n\n**DM: **Your detective, Mario Conde, is part of a lost generation in Cuba. You\u2019re more or less his contemporary. Where does that generation fit into what\u2019s happening now?\n\n**LP:** Conde is absolutely my contemporary. He\u2019s an almost model representative of my generation, and I am an entirely generational writer. All my novels contain characters of my generation confronting the challenges of my generation: the hopes and frustrations, the dreams and disillusionment that have been our lot.\n\nMy generation has been very peculiar among the Cuban peculiarities I spoke of earlier. Ever since we can remember, we\u2019ve lived in a socialist country headed by a Castro\u2014Fidel for forty years and Ra\u00fal for the last ten. We\u2019ve lived in a country where the big decisions have been handed down to us as orders or laws, and our part has been to obey whether we like it or not. Or emigrate and be frustrated. Now they\u2019re even telling us that citizens 60 years of age or older will no longer be allowed to hold high office in the country. That is to say, our part is to keep obeying, or I don\u2019t know what. But I should also say that ours was a generation that dreamed of the future. We thought it would come, that we would have a future. But it all fell apart in a moment, and the dreams vanished or were scaled back to a reality where the future still hasn\u2019t arrived, and now we know, given our age, that for us it never will.\n\nAll this may sound pessimistic, but I am more pessimistic of late. After all, today in Cuba, power is still exercised vertically, not only in big political or economic questions, but even when it comes to deciding whether a Cuban writer\u2019s book will circulate, or whether a Cuban director\u2019s film will be shown.\n\n**DM: **At the center of your novel, *Heretics*, is a historical incident: the passage of the MS St. Louis in 1939, carrying over 900 Jewish refugees who were turned away by authorities in Cuba, the US and Canada. It\u2019s a sin that binds the Americas, in a way. And it seems sadly resonant now, with the refugee crises playing out around the world. Is this the kind of historical crime that\u2019s destined to be repeated again and again, in different forms, in different places?\n\n**LP:** History has the very bad habit of constantly repeating itself. If you account for particularities of time and place, better or worse methods (generally worse) and new justifications, you see that there are cycles and processes that repeat themselves and challenges that are painfully eternal. With the \u201choly war\u201d unfolding right now, we might say we\u2019re back in the Middle Ages; even the discourse is similar, on both sides. And what to say about the US government\u2019s regression to its former rhetoric towards Cuba, and the Cuban government\u2019s predictable response? Here, it ought to be said, the fault lies not only with history. It\u2019s also the fault of men who make history but don\u2019t read it, or if they do, don\u2019t learn anything from it. It\u2019s terrible\u2026 There are times when I have difficulty persuading myself that history is an upward spiral.\n\nAs for the current refugee crisis, of course it\u2019s all too reminiscent of the crisis of less than a century ago, in the years before World War II, just as the situation in the Balkans at the end of the 20th century was a copy of the situation at the beginning of the 20th century. And there you have it, the curse of history, which is above all the fruit of arrogance, ambition and human stupidity.\n\n**DM: **In *Heretics*, Havana is depicted as a diverse, polyphonic city. Did writing about Daniel Kaminsky and the Jewish community allow you to explore a part of the city you hadn\u2019t been able to before?\n\n**LP:** Havana has always been a cosmopolitan city, open to the world, facing the sea: that was and in a sense continues to be its character. In my times of greatest activity as a journalist I wrote a lot about that Havana, telling the stories of Chinese immigration and the rise of Havana\u2019s *Barrio Chino*, of the Catalonian presence in the city and its cultural and commercial importance, of the hordes of French prostitutes and pimps who dominated the sex trade in the early 20th century: of the good and bad sides of that cosmopolitan character.\n\nWithin that kaleidoscope, the world of Havana\u2019s Jews, which had its heyday from the 1910s to the 1950s, had always appealed to me, but I\u2019d never delved into it very deeply. That Jewish community, itself highly diverse, as I say in the novel\u2014it grafted itself into Havana\u2019s diversity, adding another layer to the city\u2019s cosmopolitanism, its cultural and ethnic mix. That\u2019s something we all know in Cuba, but we weren\u2019t talking about it much, and in fact it had almost been forgotten. One of the functions of a writer, though, is to preserve memory, and for me it\u2019s an obsession. So by tracing the life of one Jew in particular, I tried to draw a portrait of that community and a possible map of Havana in the mid-20th century, when my city was a hotbed of social and economic contradictions, of migrations and urban and cultural expansions\u2014growth in the broadest sense of the term.\n\n**DM: **Can you tell me a bit about adapting *Cuatro estaciones en La Habana* for TV? I\u2019m especially curious about filming in Havana, and how you managed to give the series such an intimate, evocative atmosphere. There was a real sense of the city\u2019s neighborhoods, which I had never seen on film before.\n\n**LP:** I think the series has a high level in its genre and for its possibilities. That it was later distributed throughout Latin and North America by Netflix and reached such a large audience was an added benefit we didn\u2019t expect\u2026 The work of adapting it, which my wife, Luc\u00eda L\u00f3pez Coll, and I did ourselves, was as arduous, merciless and complicated a journey as is every process of bringing literature to the screen, especially if you\u2019re trying to preserve the essence of the book in the film and not veer off course. That was what we set out to do with the material and, by extension, with the task of developing the stories in their natural context, the city of Havana. Luckily the Spanish producers were given authorization to film in Cuba (an authorization denied to the Canadian producers who want to do another version of my novels), and we gave the Spanish director, F\u00e9lix Viscarret, all the guidance we could on recreating Havana on film.\n\nFrom there he performed a very creative reading of the city, and the cinematographer was able to make that reading his own, such that the final result is a revelation. Havana is captured in its splendors and miseries, its *barrios* and boulevards, but above all in something much more intimate: its language, its personalities, its life in action. The life you see on screen is, I can assure you, very close to the real life I know and live as a Havanan.\n\n**DM: **Crime fiction is often grouped by location: Scandinavia, the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia. Do you think there\u2019s a growing tradition of Caribbean noir, something that unites the stories coming out of Cuba, Miami, Colombia?\n\n**LP:** No, I don\u2019t think we can speak yet of a Caribbean noir. I remember when we began presenting the *Cuatro estaciones* series, the director, F\u00e9lix Viscarret, used to say we were patenting Caribbean noir, because that type of cinema made from an insider perspective\u2014distinct from the perspective in *Our Man in Havana*, for example, to name a classic\u2014practically did not exist. As far as crime or noir fiction is concerned, I know there are authors who have written and published novels in Puerto Rico, Miami and the Colombian Caribbean, and of course there are Cuban authors, but I don\u2019t think they form a coherent and visible body, neither in artistic nor even in commercial terms. I would like it if the Caribbean did have a stronger presence in the genre, not merely from the more literary angle that I take but using all the diverse possibilities that this truly generous literary mode has to offer, a mode that allows you to do anything as long as you have the ability to do it.\n\nAmong the Cubans, who are of course the writers I know best, authors such as Lorenzo Lunar and Amir Valle have taken the harder approach, the underworld-and-corruption approach, while in Miami Uva de Arag\u00f3n comes closer to the more literary manner in which I work. But it\u2019s hardly what you would call a movement, unfortunately.\n\n__________________________________\n\nThis interview was translated by Philip K. Zimmerman." + }, + { + "title": "Cuba courted in diplomatic push on Venezuela crisis - Financial Times", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuba courted in diplomatic push on Venezuela crisis - Financial Times" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMicEFVX3lxTE9pQUlJNTFDNFNLdTR3SGs0TmowbGhfeU41OGNWMjEtWWNzeGkzOHRfRDlWS3NhSFpFSi1RYzI5cGVVWGU4T2Jyc0hTaVhWMHZFZHZ2NThLNVc5WDRJelJtdFI0SHlWQ2xkS3QwUkhmaDE?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.ft.com/content/0bcdff72-6a07-11e7-bfeb-33fe0c5b7eaa", + "id": "CBMicEFVX3lxTE9pQUlJNTFDNFNLdTR3SGs0TmowbGhfeU41OGNWMjEtWWNzeGkzOHRfRDlWS3NhSFpFSi1RYzI5cGVVWGU4T2Jyc0hTaVhWMHZFZHZ2NThLNVc5WDRJelJtdFI0SHlWQ2xkS3QwUkhmaDE", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sun, 16 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 16, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 6, + 197, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Cuba courted in diplomatic push on Venezuela crisis  Financial Times", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuba courted in diplomatic push on Venezuela crisis  Financial Times" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.ft.com", + "title": "Financial Times" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Q&A Interview with Cuban Baptist Pastors - Word&Way", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Q&A Interview with Cuban Baptist Pastors - Word&Way" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMigAFBVV95cUxQblQ5X0FaQ2haMmtlSTc3V2pTdF9SUnVDUHYzNGQyNzhFYnh0bUcwM2s4X0xPUVBXaGoyaDdIT2Z6TG5iRVFlQUlYa2VGZ2FEY2kxc0k4dkFObXVrRjB6djQ3RjdzRGJZMDFXcHN0enlZdFJxX3dpOWpNcFY3MjgteQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/jul/20/they-threw-us-into-the-street-cubans-tell-of-struggles-to-enter-us", + "id": "CBMigAFBVV95cUxQblQ5X0FaQ2haMmtlSTc3V2pTdF9SUnVDUHYzNGQyNzhFYnh0bUcwM2s4X0xPUVBXaGoyaDdIT2Z6TG5iRVFlQUlYa2VGZ2FEY2kxc0k4dkFObXVrRjB6djQ3RjdzRGJZMDFXcHN0enlZdFJxX3dpOWpNcFY3MjgteQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 21 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 21, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 202, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Q&A Interview with Cuban Baptist Pastors  Word&Way", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Q&A Interview with Cuban Baptist Pastors  Word&Way" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://wordandway.org", + "title": "Word&Way" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: 'They threw us into the street': Cubans tell of struggles to enter US\nauthor: David Agren\nurl: http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/jul/20/they-threw-us-into-the-street-cubans-tell-of-struggles-to-enter-us\nhostname: theguardian.com\ndescription: Since Obama ended the \u2018wet-foot, dry-foot\u2019 preferential treatment, 1,000 Cuban migrants have gathered in Nuevo Laredo to try to gain US citizenship\nsitename: The Guardian\ndate: 2017-07-20\ncategories: ['US news']\ntags: ['US immigration,Obama administration,Mexico,Cuba,US news,World news,Americas']\n---\nAna and V\u00edctor arrived worn out and weary on an early morning bus and made their way straight for the bridge across the Rio Grande into Texas. The Cuban couple headed toward the US immigration offices, where they planned to apply for political asylum.\n\nBut American border officers blocked their way before they could plead their case.\n\n\u201cI told him: \u2018Wait. We\u2019re asking for political asylum, look at my passport.\u2019 And he said they were not accepting Cubans,\u201d said Ana, 49. \u201cThey threw us into the street.\u201d\n\nAna and V\u00edctor, who preferred not give their surnames, are among an estimated 1,000 Cubans who have arrived in Nuevo Laredo since 12 January, the day Barack Obama ended a policy of preferential treatment for Cuban migrants.\n\nThe \u201cwet-foot, dry-foot\u201d policy allowed any Cuban who reached US soil to become legal residents; its repeal as part of Obama\u2019s detente with Havana effectively closed the border to Cuban migrants.\n\nBut Cubans have continued to converge at the border regardless, in the hope that Obama\u2019s successor would return to a more hostile Cuba policy.\n\nBut when Donald Trump recently announced a partial rollback of Obama\u2019s Cuba opening in June, he kept immigration restrictions intact.\n\n\u201cWhy the hope with Trump? Because he is the only path we have to leave Cuba and reunite with family,\u201d said Ana as she sat in a waiting room at a drug rehab clinic run by evangelical pastors, which has been turned into a makeshift shelter for Cuban migrants.\n\nAs for Obama, she said: \u201cHe only wanted to get along well with the king of Cuba.\u201d\n\nObama\u2019s sudden change in immigration policy caught Cubans off-guard, including those already en route.\n\nAna and V\u00edctor, fierce critics of the Castros, had not started their trip in January. But they were determined to see through their plan to leave Cuba \u2013 and they felt they had no other option: several months earlier, the couple had sold their one-bedroom apartment in Old Havana to finance the journey.\n\nMoney from the sale paid for their daughter\u2019s US visa application \u2013 which was eventually approved \u2013 and their own Mexican visas and plane tickets to Canc\u00fan, where they arrived in mid-May. For a few weeks, they washed cars and worked in restaurants to pay for their passage to Nuevo Laredo.\n\nOthers have taken more circuitous routes to the border, flying first to Ecuador \u2013 where the Cubans can still travel visa-free \u2013 then trekking through Colombia, Central America and the whole of Mexico.\n\nWhen the policy changed, the Cubans congregated in public plazas near the border until local pastors started providing space in churches and rehab centres. Others now gather at a local Catholic-run shelter, which was already anticipating a surge in demand after Trump\u2019s anti-migrant rhetoric and pledges to deport undocumented migrants.\n\n\u201cWe were preparing for the Trump emergency when the Obama emergency arrived,\u201d said Father Giovanni Bizzotto, a Scalabrini priest directing the Nazareth migrant shelter.\n\n\u201cThere were a lot of people hoping and praying that Trump would change the Obama policy,\u201d he said.\n\nThe municipality has provided the Cubans with three months of medical insurance, while immigration officials issued visas allowing them to reside and work in Mexico.\n\nBut approximately half the Cubans tired of waiting in Nuevo Laredo, walked across the border bridge and \u201csurrendered\u201d to US officials in the hope of claiming asylum. Others have requested asylum in Mexico, though most have not abandoned their hopes of entering the US.\n\nMost of the migrants at the shelter are Central Americans fleeing gang violence and poverty, or Mexicans deported from the US and dumped in a city currently convulsed by organised crime violence.\n\nThe treatment of the Cubans, who can pass through Mexico with the proper papers, contrasts sharply with the thousands of Central Americans transiting the country as they flee poverty and violence back home.\n\nMexican immigration officials now detain and deport more Central Americans than their American counterparts, while migrants are often preyed upon by crooked cops and criminal gangs as they make their way north.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s difficult to cross Mexico. With some luck you can cross it,\u201d said Luis Oviedo, a Honduran who barely avoided a kidnapping attempt while travelling through the country and at one point walked for 10 days to avoid checkpoints.\n\nAmong the Cubans who remain at Bizzotto\u2019s shelter, anger at Obama runs high.\n\n\u201cThe US is a country of immigrants and they slammed the door in our face,\u201d said Israel, 64, a heavy equipment operator.\n\nIsrael, who didn\u2019t want to give his surname, spent seven years trying to reach Mexico. He worked along the way, including two years as a barman in Panama. He pulled out a tattered blue passport stamped and showed an Ecuadorian entry stamp dated 12 February 2010 \u2013 but still he seethed that the US border closed to Cubans before he could cross.\n\n\u201cI renounce the US,\u201d he declared, raising his voice over the roar of a noisy ceiling fan. A little later, he admitted that he still hoped to cross the border one day to be reunited with a son living in New Orleans." + }, + { + "title": "'They threw us into the street': Cubans tell of struggles to enter US - The Guardian", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "'They threw us into the street': Cubans tell of struggles to enter US - The Guardian" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMitAFBVV95cUxPelF1b1gxN0lfdlIwVWdMeE9Na3dTVG5iS3ktZkk4dkRJU29NZ3NGZEthSzJBMkxxRENPM25zX05ZWXoySjE2dF83VG4wTWt5S2IyRHd5UmNsNDljX3ZrZU5ScVZ2NWg1LWN0dVM1d1hVRkV6TlFQd0REN1R2dFhrWmNiSV93R05yVG1LVkthSGRUZDZZX0FnZUpDT1pYNDJBS1NzTjg3a2lxRU5WNlRoODF4Tnk?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://wordandway.org/2017/07/21/q-a-interview-with-cuban-baptist-pastors/", + "id": "CBMitAFBVV95cUxPelF1b1gxN0lfdlIwVWdMeE9Na3dTVG5iS3ktZkk4dkRJU29NZ3NGZEthSzJBMkxxRENPM25zX05ZWXoySjE2dF83VG4wTWt5S2IyRHd5UmNsNDljX3ZrZU5ScVZ2NWg1LWN0dVM1d1hVRkV6TlFQd0REN1R2dFhrWmNiSV93R05yVG1LVkthSGRUZDZZX0FnZUpDT1pYNDJBS1NzTjg3a2lxRU5WNlRoODF4Tnk", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 20 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 20, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 201, + 0 + ], + "summary": "'They threw us into the street': Cubans tell of struggles to enter US  The Guardian", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "'They threw us into the street': Cubans tell of struggles to enter US  The Guardian" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.theguardian.com", + "title": "The Guardian" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Q&A Interview with Cuban Baptist Pastors - Word&Way\nauthor: Ken Satterfield\nurl: https://wordandway.org/2017/07/21/q-a-interview-with-cuban-baptist-pastors/\nhostname: wordandway.org\ndescription: In June, two Cuban Baptist pastors traveled to the U.S. to meet with Midwest Baptists. The two pastors also visited the Word&Way offices for an interview with Editor Brian Kaylor.\nsitename: Word&Way\ndate: 2017-07-21\ncategories: ['Word & Way (Missouri)']\n---\n*In June, two **Cuban Baptist **pastors **traveled to **the U.S. to **meet with **Midwest Baptists. **Josu\u00e9 Rodr\u00edguez **Legr\u00e1 (below left), **is president of **Convenci\u00f3n Bautista de Cuba Oriental** (Eastern Baptist **Convention of Cuba) and pastor of **1ra Iglesia Bautista de **Palma Soriano** (1st **Baptist Church of Palma Soriano). Diorlis **(Joey) **Hern\u00e1ndez (below right), is pastor of **Sexta Iglesia Bautista de Santiago de **Cuba **(Sixth Baptist Church in Santiago de **Cuba). They met with leaders of **Central Baptist **Theological Seminary in Shawnee, **Kan., Churchnet in* *Jefferson City, Mo., Southwest Baptist **University in Bolivar, Mo., and The Baptist Home in Ironton, Mo. They spoke at First Baptist Church in Lee\u2019s Summit, Mo., and Josu\u00e9 preached **at Familia Cristiana Internacional in Jefferson City. The two pastors also **visited the Word&Way offices for an interview with Editor Brian Kaylor. Gary **Snowden, missional collaboration team **leader for **Churchnet and associate pastor at First Baptist Church in Lee\u2019s Summit, assisted with the translations.*\n\n**Josu\u00e9, you are president of the Eastern Baptist Convention of Cuba. Could you tell us about the Convention?**\n\n**Josu\u00e9:** The convention is about 111 years old. We have about 622 churches. We are an institution that grew as a result of the work of North American missionaries. That\u2019s why we have a missionary DNA. We are now working in all the island \u2014 from the east to the west. Our mission is to reach all the regions of our country. We have at least one church in every province [state]. And our next goal is to plant a church in every leading city so that we will eventually be present everywhere in our country. We have more than 1,000 missions that are really churches in formation. We have more than 800 missionaries that work in these missions. We have more than 4,000 small groups. Our greatest growth has been concentrated in the past 25 years.\n\n**You are both pastors of local Baptist congregations. Can you each tell us a little bit about your call and how you came to be a pastor?**\n\n**Joey:** I was participating in a congress for young people of the convention, and there I received a call to serve. So, I went to my church in the mountains, a very interesting place because it\u2019s called \u201cthe house of the devil.\u201d But the church is called \u201cthe house of God.\u201d So, in the \u201chouse of God\u201d I was formed as a missionary, and from there I went out and started a new church. My wife and I left the secular work that we were involved in and we began to live by faith. We were receiving a salary of $5 a month with two small kids. There were only seven members of the church. God used us there and in six years we planted a church with everything. We had a church building built, a pastoral home and we left two functioning mission places and we left equipped leaders. One of those is now studying in the seminary and two of them are leading churches today. It\u2019s a blessing for us. \u2026 Our Sunday School attendance [at Sixth Baptist] has doubled. Our church was praying for 60 students in Sunday School. Now we have between 120 and 140. God has blessed us. We\u2019re also using sports ministry as well: f\u00fatbol [soccer], baseball, kickball. Those have been very effective tools. In one week, we were able to work with more than 100 children and young people.\n\n**Josu\u00e9:** I was born in a Christian home and I came to Christ when I was 10 years old. But I had a health problem that was due to a blood type. I almost died. My mother shared with me some of the things that happened to me as a child. And I understood that God had saved and preserved my life for a purpose. So, I grew with this understanding and I thought that God was calling me to be a pastor. When I was in primary school, behind the house was the farm and my first sermons were preached out there in the field. So, I grew up knowing God had a purpose for my life in pastoral ministry. It was very clear to me that was what God wanted me to do, even ahead of anything else like being president of the convention. My principal calling is to pastor a local church.\n\n**In Cuba right now, it seems there is both great revival as well as unique challenges. Could you share about the two sides of this coin?**\n\n**Joey:** It\u2019s true we do have great revival. Our churches are growing, planting new churches. But we have the challenge that we cannot build church buildings. Given that we can\u2019t build church buildings, we have worship and meet wherever we can. It\u2019s a problem for the missionary and for the person who attends as well \u2014 one of the greatest challenges that we have. Another great challenge we have is how to sustain, how to support these missionaries because the churches don\u2019t have sufficient offerings. For example, I have a small church, but I am helping to support five missionaries and there are other churches that have even more missionaries than that. We don\u2019t know how to support them sometimes because many of them have families as well. I was a missionary and I know what it means to try to live on $5 a month. I know also how to live without $5. It\u2019s a great challenge.\n\n**Josu\u00e9:** We\u2019re talking about some of the things that we have achieved as a convention in evangelist work and outreach. Cuba\u2019s not like many other countries in the world where the churches can meet wherever they desire to. For a church to really develop its life, it needs to have a place to gather. The growth of the church in situations like this brings with it great challenges for us because they\u2019re small congregations that barely have resources. They need both places for the churches to worship as well as homes for the missionaries. So, we recognize that this is a situation that we have to confront. At the same time, we realize we cannot stop planting new churches and seeking to reach new people. We understand that this is God\u2019s work and he will send his help from someplace.\n\n**What would you like Baptists in the United States to know about life in Cuba?**\n\n**Joey:** I hope that my Baptist brethren in the U.S. will know that the scarcity that we confront in Cuba has made us very strong. What appears to be a weak point is something that God has used to expand the church. The less we have, the more we look and seek after God. And if someday something happens there that simulates what is happening in the U.S., God is going to be strong. God\u2019s working powerfully in our community. Our church is outwardly focused. We\u2019re offering courses of English free to the community. We\u2019re working with addicts in the community to help them recover. We\u2019re working with children \u2014 both Christian and non-Christian \u2014 of our community to help. We\u2019re helping to transform the community. And we\u2019re trying to live the gospel that we preach. It\u2019s difficult, but we are doing it. And people are looking at church as if it were an oasis. We have a freezer now and we\u2019re able to offer ice to the community for cold water; this is something that the community appreciates. God is doing great things in our community. God\u2019s grace is powerful upon us.\n\n**Josu\u00e9:** The Cuban church is growing in spite of all that we\u2019ve mentioned. And even though we have found ourselves in situations of scarcity and confrontation, the church continues to grow. We have a gospel worthy of being exported to all the world. There is leadership within our churches to help reach the unreached. Do we need resources? Yes. Do we need friends to work alongside us? Yes. But we believe that we can also cooperate with others in the development of the gospel and in the evangelistic work of the church today towards the world.\n\n**To follow-up on that, Josu\u00e9, you all have a vision not just for Cuba but for missions around the world.**\n\n**Josu\u00e9: **That\u2019s why I was saying we have something to offer as well. We don\u2019t put ourselves in the place of saying we just need someone to come and cooperate and work with us. Something that\u2019s happening in our convention is that we have recently established our own foreign mission board. I think that in the history of the Church in one future day, we believe that Cuba\u2019s going to take its place in the part of world missions. We understand that we have missionaries who are capable and trained, with a clear and good call from God. And they are ready to go anywhere in the world. I think the way in which we have lived and experienced the gospel in Cuba has prepared us to be able to live in other places in the world.\n\n**Joey, since this is your first trip to the United States, would you share observations \u2014 good or bad?**\n\n**Joey:** I had no idea what the U.S. was like. I had seen it in television, in pictures. I\u2019d seen Americans visiting Cuba. But when I came to this country, I rapidly discovered I didn\u2019t know anything about it. It\u2019s a very organized country. People are really good. It\u2019s very clean country. I\u2019ve enjoyed very much being here. Anything that you want to find is here, and that\u2019s been very surprising for me. I\u2019d never been in a Walmart before. When I went to Walmart, I almost died! And we can eat beef here freely, something that we can\u2019t do in our country. People have received us warmly wherever we\u2019ve gone. Everything has been wonderful. I want it to happen 11 times a year!" + }, + { + "title": "Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade - Violinist.com", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade - Violinist.com" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiZkFVX3lxTFBheHFHYVpvbENuTDJjdlVtcFU5S01TTEYtaW41VWN6anQxZEZ0SWJPWG1DYWJjODFfRmU1TEVOd3BjajRQb1FyRHROX3BEY2tQZjZzNjRyajRGbExRZ1hBcExpVm8zdw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.violinist.com/blog/nobilemente/20177/21293/", + "id": "CBMiZkFVX3lxTFBheHFHYVpvbENuTDJjdlVtcFU5S01TTEYtaW41VWN6anQxZEZ0SWJPWG1DYWJjODFfRmU1TEVOd3BjajRQb1FyRHROX3BEY2tQZjZzNjRyajRGbExRZ1hBcExpVm8zdw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 26, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 207, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade  Violinist.com", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade  Violinist.com" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.violinist.com", + "title": "Violinist.com" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade\nauthor: Samuel Thompson\nsitename: Violinist.com\ndate: 2017-07-26\n---\nWe have thousands of human-written stories, discussions, interviews and reviews from today through the past 20+ years. Find them here:\n\n# Dispatch from Havana: Brindis de Salas, and Master Class on the Ysa\u00ffe Ballade\n\n*In October 2016, conductor Marlon Daniel asked me to join him for a trip to Cuba for the purpose of documenting both master classes and his time conducting. What started as a 'simple writing assignment' - as well as a tremendous opportunity to see a nation closed to Americans until very recently - turned into a tremendous educational journey and one of the most meaningful trips that I have ever taken.*\n\nOne of the most meaningful and enlightening aspects of having the opportunity to travel to Havana was doing preliminary research on the history of both western classical music and violin playing as they have existed on the island. While we are fortunate in this day to have heard and met truly excellent musicians from Cuba, delving into the past gives a true glimpse at the foundation of the tradition as well as a fascinating historical context.\n\nThis history includes the life of violin virtuoso **Claudio Brindis de Salas Garrido**, who was born into a musical family in Havana on August 4, 1852. After early training first with his father and later with both Jose Redondo and the Belgian violinist Jose van der Gutch, Brindis de Salas (as he was known) traveled to Paris, winning the first prize at the Conservatoire de Paris in 1871.\n\n\nIn the 1945 book *Music in Cuba*, Alejo Carpentier referred to Brindis de Salas as \u201cthe most extraordinary of the black musicians of the nineteenth century....an unprecedented case in the musical history of the continent.\u201d Indeed, Brindis de Salas was referred to as both \u201cthe king of the octaves\u201d and \u201cthe Black Paganini\u201d by European critics, and it is clear from critical notices that he was one of the greatest concert performers of his time.\n\n*Claudio Brindis de Salas Garrido*\n\n\nOn May 26, 1930 (approximately nineteen years after his death in Buenos Aires, Argentina) Brindis de Salas' ashes were laid into the ground in Havana. They were later moved to the Church of San Francisco de Paula in Havana, which is now a concert hall.\n\nWhile I did not have a chance to visit San Francisco de Paula on this trip, I did have the opportunity to stand outside the Gran Teatro de la Habana Alicia Alonso, a neo-baroque masterpiece constructed between 1908 and 1915. Currently the home of the Cuban National Ballet, great artists including Norwegian violinist Ole Bull have performed at the Gran Teatro.\n\n*Gran Teatro de la Habana Alicia Alonso*\n\nAfter marveling at this tremendous structure, Marlon and I again walked to San Felipe de Neri for a master class that I was to teach. Arsenio Marrupe, who also played for Eric Silberger, was the lone violinist in this class. The fact that there was only one violinist in this class was not disappointing considering that Arsenio performed Eug\u00e8ne Ysa\u00ffe's magical, mysterious, and hair-raising *Ballade* during our session.\n\nA few notes about Arsenio: this young man is a kind soul, a young man eager to learn and improve \u2013 the latter being evident through his performing in two master classes during the same week \u2013 and in possession of some truly captivating musical instincts. The fact that he is also technically solid was again made evident before we left for lunch as he played the Bach *Chaccone* with great skill, sensitivity, and musical acuity.\n\nBut back to Ysa\u00ffe: our work began from the first three notes, making sure that the first double-stop was perfectly in tune and truly creating a sense of mystery by deliberately capturing the tension in the ascending line of sixths at the end of the first line.\n\nIn the next section, I reminded Arsenio that it was vital to maintain a sense of rhythmic integrity despite the opening being marked \u201cin modo di recitativo\u201d. This attention to rhythmic precision while allowing for some sense of rubato resulted in greater attention being placed on the intervals, especially the dissonances. Additionally, it was shared that we must resist the temptation to make accelerando during this section \u2013 while the music does get exciting, it is more important to resist getting carried away by placing emphasis on the musical structure. \u201cListen to and let us hear the intervals \u2013 this is most important.\u201d\n\nIn the Molto moderato quasi lento section, Arsenio's playing was both beautiful and clean, and he responded immediately to the idea that he could make small glissandi between the large intervals after he played them both out of context, measuring the intervals in very slow motion. Again, we focused on the concept of rhythm and rhythmic integrity. Nearing the bottom of the page, I advised Arsenio to use more bow to make the accents in the descending fortissimo passage and later allow himself to really make rubato and ritardando at the end of this section.\n\nThat level of attention to the energy and direction of the music resulted in the perfect start of the Allegro in Tempo giusto, of which the first measure is both the resolution of the recitative and the first true statement of D minor in the piece and a one measure introduction to the swirling, macabre melody that is so familiar to all of us. When arriving on the theme, one does not need to stop both the bow and the sound to make the accents. It was also important to share with Arsenio that the second beats of the gesture are equally important and should not be rushed through.\n\nIt is truly wondrous when many of our life experiences come together, especially so in music. While working through the second page of the Ballade, I found myself remembering one of the things that Kenneth Goldsmith told me in 1995 during my first lesson with him: \u201cMusic is not a run-on sentence.\u201d I do not share this to imply that Arsenio did not have a concept of musical structure: quite the contrary, as you will gather as you continue reading. However, in pieces that are \u201cknotty\u201d there can be a tendency to focus on the gymnastics of the left hand while not always thinking about how we speak with the bow. Arsenio, when shown where to finish phrases and gestures, responded immediately and effortlessly. He continued to do so during the fifth and sixth lines as he was reminded not to rush through the rising double stops and rather find places where rubato could take place within a framework of rhythmic and harmonic integrity.\n\nThroughout this section there were questions about fingerings, and it became clear that Ysa\u00ffe's fingerings created a truly exciting affect during an short, ascending line of double stops that went from piano to forte.\n\nWhen asked about the reason for making so many changes in tempo, Arsenio responded \u201cLoco.\u201d Crazy. YES, crazy \u2013 and we laughed, while also pointing out that the marking loco on the third page is because there is a printed 8va section in the preceding measure. There is no doubt that the Ballade can be interpreted as a \u201cviolinistic mad scene\u201d with its twists and turns, rich and disturbing harmonic changes, and tremendous technical demands. However, Ysa\u00ffe's stunning command of the musical language of his era make it paramount for both the violinist and the audience to clearly hear every sonority, as it is through the deliberate attention to these that the \u201cmadness\u201d comes out: when playing the Ballade (or any work), our highest task is to bring our attention to the energy and direction of the music.\n\nThis \u201cmadness\u201d is also expressed by the changes of character throughout the piece, particularly that of the sextuplet section of the third page, and we experimented with making the character and dynamic change happen on the first triplet of the page. Arsenio played these passages with great agility. When reaching the short C-minor section, I reminded him that it was paramount to hear the line whenever the descending/ascending third gesture appeared.\n\nAfter an effortless and exciting journey through lines of double-stops, we reached the fortissimo descending sixth/tenth passage. \u201cAs this is marked fortissimo and continuing the diminished harmony, you can start slower at the beginning of the descent for effect, but get back to tempo quickly.\u201d\n\nIn the following *dolce con espressivo* A minor section, the theme appears in variation, and is followed by a series of arpeggios and string crossings. \u201cIn places where it seems that we're wandering, it's even more important to remember the structure,\u201d I said. This concept remained important through the *a tempo \u2013 grazioso* section, and it was truly impressive to witness the number of times that Arsenio played these passages with the intention of truly understanding as opposed to simply \u201ccorrecting\u201d. Yes, this young man showed himself to be on a mission.\n\nFor the absolutely devilish transition filled with tenths and sixths that leads to the a tempo reappearance of the theme (on the fourth page): \u201cUse flatter hair through these three measures, and keep the bow closer to the bridge so that you maintain the fortissimo \u2013 and make sure that you do the ritardando.\u201d Another moment of \u201cunderstanding\u201d came when I told Arsenio to start the passage again \u2013 then humorously said \u201cMaybe *not* start there\u201d. While it is necessary and good for us to tackle difficult passages head-on, there are times that it is wise to let steam out of the pressure cooker, no? \u201cMake sure that you pay attention to what you're doing with the bow, especially during the ritardando and playing on the lower strings, as it is still fortissimo. It may sound like too much under your ear, but in a hall it will be appropriate.\u201d\n\nIn the final *Piu mosso*, \u201cFlatter hair throughout, and keep it, especially as it is marked to play at the tip. Also, make sure that the sound in the strokes are even \u2013 almost creating a 'wall of sound', and placing the accents where they should be.\u201d\n\nWith the last three measures being marked Vivo after poco a poco slargando, I suggested to Arsenio that he really take off blazing, with very little time between the ending of the slargando passage and the dissonant three-note chords that take us to the end.\n\n\u201cThat's a LOT going on in seven minutes,\u201d I said at the end.\n\n*with violinist Arsenio Marrupe*\n\nAfter this class, Arsenio took me to a Japanese restaurant in Old Havana that is owned and operated by two Cuban women. Lunch and great conversation was shared with Arsenio and two other musicians of the Havana Lyceum Orchestra, all of whom shared both gratitude for the opportunities that they have and a refreshing perspective that included the fact that we as musicians should afford every opportunity that we have to travel, so that we can gain understanding of the world and of musicmaking as it exists throughout the cultural capitals.\n\n**You might also like:**\n\n- Dispatch from Havana: The Havana Lyceum Orchestra\n- Interview: Holly Mulcahy on Jennifer Higdon's Violin Concerto\n- Interview with Samuel Thompson: Weathering the Storm\n\n## Replies\n\nThis is really cool! I have a question: Did Brindis de Salas compose? I would love to get my hands on his music if it is available.\n\nConsolation, Op. 5, by Claudio Jos\u00e9 Domingo Brindis de Salas\n\nWow! Thank YOU, Mr. Thompson.\n\nToo bad there does not appear to be any recordings of his playing. He sounds incredible, from the descriptions of his playing, you can tell the audiences were strongly impacted by his art.\n\nAre there any recordings of any of his compositions? I can find none of the one posted above.\n\n\nI have not yet found recordings Brindis di Salas' playing, but yes - those would be GREAT to hear.\n\nSamuel, thank you so much for this series of articles from your cultural exchange trip to Cuba -- you've done such a beautiful job of capturing so many different facets -- the sense of place, history, culture, and also this sense of making beautiful music that we all have in common despite this long isolation from each other.\n\nSomeone should record themselves playing his piece and post it! Great article, what an amazing man he was!\n\n*This article has been archived and is no longer accepting comments.*\n\nJuly 27, 2017 at 10:20 AM \u00b7 Crossing bridges for mutual exploration and understanding... wonderful!" + }, + { + "title": "Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon | The Migrant Kitchen | Food & Discovery - PBS SoCal", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon | The Migrant Kitchen | Food & Discovery - PBS SoCal" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMisgFBVV95cUxQMTVkSV9qV2F1ZXJTcFpiQUw5dFFJMi1sdkRYUTVUU0YxT1MxSnVGQ3hkdVFfQ21Oei1JZHY2VUlMSDFUVE5vajZkWFdDWV9WWTI2b2JrY2Vsb2piamFLSjdMQnlHMndQZHVwRVdGUDd0bUFXNDJfb3M3MWFRQnJQaFptZmtrMVRTbmhSTTFvaHI4WXR6d0JaS2EzcXBWT185T1NmR1UtSGg1V1lEWFd1Xzd3?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.pbssocal.org/shows/the-migrant-kitchen/portos-from-communist-cuba-secret-to-southern-california-icon", + "id": "CBMisgFBVV95cUxQMTVkSV9qV2F1ZXJTcFpiQUw5dFFJMi1sdkRYUTVUU0YxT1MxSnVGQ3hkdVFfQ21Oei1JZHY2VUlMSDFUVE5vajZkWFdDWV9WWTI2b2JrY2Vsb2piamFLSjdMQnlHMndQZHVwRVdGUDd0bUFXNDJfb3M3MWFRQnJQaFptZmtrMVRTbmhSTTFvaHI4WXR6d0JaS2EzcXBWT185T1NmR1UtSGg1V1lEWFd1Xzd3", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 20 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 20, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 201, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon | The Migrant Kitchen | Food & Discovery  PBS SoCal", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon | The Migrant Kitchen | Food & Discovery  PBS SoCal" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.pbssocal.org", + "title": "PBS SoCal" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon\nauthor: Clarissa Wei\nurl: https://www.pbssocal.org/shows/the-migrant-kitchen/portos-from-communist-cuba-secret-to-southern-california-icon\nhostname: pbssocal.org\ndescription: Porto's Bakery sells about 1.2 million cheese rolls and 550,000 potato balls per month. But this bakery that could was once a black market business born in Communist Cuba.\nsitename: PBS SoCal\ndate: 2017-07-20\ncategories: ['Food & Discovery']\ntags: ['migrant kitchen', 'Cuba', 'desserts', 'immigrant culture']\n---\n# Porto's: From Communist Cuba Secret to Southern California Icon\n\nIn Los Angeles, Porto\u2019s Bakery is an icon, known for their crisp potato balls, guava strudels, croquettes, thick Cuban sandwiches and grandiose cakes. The lines are impressively long, and they\u2019ve had a steady following for nearly fifty years.\n\nTheir story is a classic immigrant narrative that begins with a woman named Rosa Porto, who baked and sold her cakes secretly in 1960s Communist Cuba where private enterprise was forbidden.\n\n\u201cFor my mother to make a cake, she just couldn\u2019t walk into a Smart and Final and buy those ingredients, all of them had to be bought on the black market,\u201d says Raul Porto, Jr. their son and co-owner of Porto\u2019s, in a video interview with the California Restaurant Association.\n\n\u201cWhenever the secret police would come to raid the house, we already knew they were coming and the neighbors would take the equipment we had to the backyard, so they never caught her,\u201d Betty Porto, Rosa\u2019s daughter and co-owner of Porto\u2019s, says in the same video interview, \u201cIf she was caught, she would have gone to jail for twenty years, so this was not a laughing matter.\u201d\n\nShe and her husband Raul eventually immigrated to California in the 1970s but still, she couldn\u2019t sell her baked goods freely.\n\n\u201cMy dad wanted her to work and would send her off on job interviews,\u201d Betty says. Rosa would purposely fail or miss the interviews, opting instead to bake cakes at home. She would sell the pastries to her friends and eventually made enough money to convince her husband that she had what it took to make her passion into a full-time job.\n\n\u201cIn 1976 she opened her first shop with my dad\u2019s blessing,\u201d Betty says. The first Porto\u2019s was a tiny 300-square foot bakery on Sunset Boulevard in Echo Park, where they averaged roughly 50 customers a day.\n\nSince then, Porto\u2019s has grown leaps and bounds. Porto\u2019s estimates that it sells about 550,000 potato balls and 1.2 million cheese rolls per month. Its kitchen goes through 3,000 lbs of dough per hour; 30,000 lbs. of butter and 60,000 lbs. of flour per week. The bakery serves approximately 4.5 million customers per year.\n\nToday Rosa \u2014 now 87 \u2014 is retired, though she still makes the occasional appearance in the shops where she is a living legend to over 1,200 employees. Her three children Betty, Raul Jr., and Margarita have taken over the bakery, with locations in Glendale, Burbank, Buena Park, and Downey.\n\nBut while Porto\u2019s origin is Cuban, with their signature potato balls, empanadas, and guava-laced pastries, the appeal is universal. Lines reliably snake outside of the doors at all of their shops. Cakes are consistently commissioned ahead of time for parties and weddings.\n\n\u201cWe have never spent a penny on advertisements,\u201d Betty says. \u201cEverything has been word of mouth.\u201d\n\nSo how did this mom-and-pop bakery turn into the iconic chain it is today?\n\n\u201cWhen you\u2019re a mom-and-pop, everything is done by you so you don\u2019t trust anybody,\u201d Betty says. \u201c\u201cThe biggest thing was learning to delegate and divide and conquer.\u201d\n\nBorn and educated in the States, when Betty and her siblings decided to expand the business, they readily took the advice of consultants and their business professors. They divided the restaurant into departments and hired managers, whose jobs are to control costs and labor. An inspector and a mystery shopper was also brought on to make sure everything is regularly up to par with health department code; managers are held up to this for their bonuses. Porto\u2019s also has a test kitchen and four chefs whose job is to constantly dream up new pastries and savory treats such as guava cakes; lemon merengue tarts; a pulled pork barbecue sandwiches with sauce made out of a guava reduction; a Cuban-style hamburgers with patties made of half beef and half pork, with a little chorizo flavor and aioli sauce.\n\nOne perennial challenge, however, is something that is welcomed by any business: lines \u2014 long lines. They snake and sometimes spill into the sidewalk of their branches, especially on special occasions like Mother\u2019s Day. \u201cIt\u2019s been a challenge forever and ever,\u201d Betty says.\n\nTo ease a patron\u2019s anxiety faced with the sight, Porto\u2019s have greeters roving the lines to direct the bakery\u2019s patrons. This was a result of the family\u2019s own research. \"We learned how to manage the lines by working on the floor and watching the flow of customers,\u201d says Betty, \u201cAt peak times we bring more people and we know what those times are because we track sales. We continue to watch and learn every day in order to give the customer a better experience.\u201d\n\nBut while it was this delegation of tasks that helped Porto\u2019s expand into the machine that it is today, Betty credits their family\u2019s immigrant mentality for helping them obtain the capital they needed to grow.\n\n\u201cImmigrants save a lot of money. We didn\u2019t have a house until 1980. We lived frugally and kept investing money into the business,\u201d says Betty. \u201cEven to today, we live in regular houses and drive regular cars.\u201d\n\nThe frugality paid off.\n\nTheir largest location, in Buena Park, is a 25,000 square foot megastore. West Covina is next on their expansion radar, followed by Northridge in the near future. The entire operation is completely family-owned and operated.\n\n\u201cI still can\u2019t believe what my mom has done,\u201d Betty says. \u201cBut for her, the thing that she is most proud of is not the business. It\u2019s us.\u201d\n\nAnd because of the Porto\u2019s family, Cuban food has become a regular fixture into the culinary fabric of Southern California, with more locations to come.\n\n\u201cThe basics never goes away. My mother\u2019s recipes are left alone,\u201d Betty says. \u201cPeople come all over the country for our food. [But] if we get rid of the potato balls, we\u2019d have a nationwide strike.\u201d" + }, + { + "title": "In Cuba, Growing Numbers Of Bloggers Manage To Operate In A Vulnerable Gray Area - WLRN", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "In Cuba, Growing Numbers Of Bloggers Manage To Operate In A Vulnerable Gray Area - WLRN" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMisAFBVV95cUxQX2FYWnNpWnpUTldWTFNyMXE5TDJjYmhBRXV2Z3hxTjlJeFMzcVdJUGxtRmF1YUpUbDNHbG9CSlJJYXcxa2lnZ3h6aE9XMjV5ckNmVnplX0prbTB5OFdqbXNjUXNwTFFidjZwSkh3dXFsbHplU0g2UVQzM3JRaWhyWWpQNkpCcUNDQ1l1NXNRM3ZVV29RWHlLUWU4LUhwX3B1MXhFRXNSUnAxdmtaU0F5Qg?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.wlrn.org/2017-07-02/in-cuba-growing-numbers-of-bloggers-manage-to-operate-in-a-vulnerable-gray-area", + "id": "CBMisAFBVV95cUxQX2FYWnNpWnpUTldWTFNyMXE5TDJjYmhBRXV2Z3hxTjlJeFMzcVdJUGxtRmF1YUpUbDNHbG9CSlJJYXcxa2lnZ3h6aE9XMjV5ckNmVnplX0prbTB5OFdqbXNjUXNwTFFidjZwSkh3dXFsbHplU0g2UVQzM3JRaWhyWWpQNkpCcUNDQ1l1NXNRM3ZVV29RWHlLUWU4LUhwX3B1MXhFRXNSUnAxdmtaU0F5Qg", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sun, 02 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 2, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 6, + 183, + 0 + ], + "summary": "In Cuba, Growing Numbers Of Bloggers Manage To Operate In A Vulnerable Gray Area  WLRN", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "In Cuba, Growing Numbers Of Bloggers Manage To Operate In A Vulnerable Gray Area  WLRN" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.wlrn.org", + "title": "WLRN" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "In Cuba, a Chinatown With No Chinese - The Diplomat \u2013 Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "In Cuba, a Chinatown With No Chinese - The Diplomat \u2013 Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMid0FVX3lxTE5wR1V6UWVHOUZoQWd2THVNVTFxaUlJYXg5NW5sOURlQXNJLWFtR1g4SDUzXzhjVzVpbTVYQkZGeS1EU1hTb3RheWNSMHdPTE9JcWxyMW52WDNybS1FdXVFMjFyYUJscVUxdFJiY2diY3o5aTFLWnp3?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://thediplomat.com/2017/07/in-cuba-a-chinatown-with-no-chinese/", + "id": "CBMid0FVX3lxTE5wR1V6UWVHOUZoQWd2THVNVTFxaUlJYXg5NW5sOURlQXNJLWFtR1g4SDUzXzhjVzVpbTVYQkZGeS1EU1hTb3RheWNSMHdPTE9JcWxyMW52WDNybS1FdXVFMjFyYUJscVUxdFJiY2diY3o5aTFLWnp3", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 12 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 12, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 193, + 0 + ], + "summary": "In Cuba, a Chinatown With No Chinese  The Diplomat \u2013 Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "In Cuba, a Chinatown With No Chinese  The Diplomat \u2013 Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://thediplomat.com", + "title": "The Diplomat \u2013 Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "UM Names Andy Gomez Interim Director of Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies - University of Miami News", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "UM Names Andy Gomez Interim Director of Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies - University of Miami News" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiiAFBVV95cUxPNzFSdW1KSWRmMFlGQ3c3V2FkTTRIa0R5WjlzZFRtYzdqc2hTZ3NQdHhWeFFQTzVtT3ZxWmp5N19EeGxjb3ZrbDBuMTF0M0dGRHRVRk51TmZoaXlXbmlaRGVTNUpXTXAtNW45ZEV2cGR0b2dSMnpBYVNsRXduUW1QSGJpQW1Takty?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://news.miami.edu/stories/2017/07/gomez-named-interim-director-of-iccas.html", + "id": "CBMiiAFBVV95cUxPNzFSdW1KSWRmMFlGQ3c3V2FkTTRIa0R5WjlzZFRtYzdqc2hTZ3NQdHhWeFFQTzVtT3ZxWmp5N19EeGxjb3ZrbDBuMTF0M0dGRHRVRk51TmZoaXlXbmlaRGVTNUpXTXAtNW45ZEV2cGR0b2dSMnpBYVNsRXduUW1QSGJpQW1Takty", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 13, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 194, + 0 + ], + "summary": "UM Names Andy Gomez Interim Director of Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies  University of Miami News", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "UM Names Andy Gomez Interim Director of Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies  University of Miami News" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://news.miami.edu", + "title": "University of Miami News" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: UM Names Andy Gomez Interim Director of Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies\nauthor: UM News\nurl: https://news.miami.edu/stories/2017/07/gomez-named-interim-director-of-iccas.html\nhostname: miami.edu\nsitename: news.miami.edu\ndate: 2026-01-03\ntags: ['University of Miami, Cuba, Cuba studies, Institute of Cuban and Cuban-America Studies, ICCAS']\n---\nThe University of Miami is pleased to announce that Andy Gomez, a respected community leader and former assistant provost and senior fellow at UM\u2019s Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies (ICCAS), will serve as interim director of ICCAS effective August 15, 2017.\n\nGomez, an expert on human values and attitudes in post-Castro Cuba, was presented the University\u2019s President\u2019s Medal when he retired in 2012. He continues to be a much sought after media expert on Cuba and Cuban-American relations.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m humbled to be named interim director of such an important institute, and will work tirelessly to continue the University\u2019s focus on Cuban and Cuban-American studies and research,\u201d said Gomez, who was an original founding member of ICCAS.\n\nICCAS has been operating at the University of Miami since 1999 and is housed on campus in the Casa Bacardi building.\n\nAs a committed leader in the field of Cuban studies, the University of Miami will conduct an extensive search to identify and hire an accomplished scholar in Cuban and Cuban-American studies to continue the research and partnerships housed at Casa Bacardi. Gomez will also serve as an advisor to the University in this area.\n\nCasa Bacardi plays a significant role in both promoting greater understanding of contemporary Cuban issues and serving as a gathering place for the Cuban-American community, which will provide valuable input on this important search." + }, + { + "title": "Going 'Home' To A Place They've Never Been: Cuba - WLRN", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Going 'Home' To A Place They've Never Been: Cuba - WLRN" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiiAFBVV95cUxPdUg2QzFreWJMRGVxal9Zekw2NXdVNnVZWUdtZVlKV1FpUmhmZjJDNEVQNUhsUzM0OHlXOFpsZFJmNWZudWRGLVJ1WnJrVDQ5OGM3UjhPNUpVSFlGSXNfR21udTRXRmtISUZWdjlxdGoybmRFTnlueURTbkVCVGNzMGFIWkNoc3hV?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.trailrunnermag.com/destinations/international-destinations/ultimate-cuban-trail-running-tour/", + "id": "CBMiiAFBVV95cUxPdUg2QzFreWJMRGVxal9Zekw2NXdVNnVZWUdtZVlKV1FpUmhmZjJDNEVQNUhsUzM0OHlXOFpsZFJmNWZudWRGLVJ1WnJrVDQ5OGM3UjhPNUpVSFlGSXNfR21udTRXRmtISUZWdjlxdGoybmRFTnlueURTbkVCVGNzMGFIWkNoc3hV", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 31 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 31, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 212, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Going 'Home' To A Place They've Never Been: Cuba  WLRN", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Going 'Home' To A Place They've Never Been: Cuba  WLRN" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.wlrn.org", + "title": "WLRN" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: The Ultimate Cuban Trail-Running Tour\nauthor: Trail Runner magazine\nurl: https://www.trailrunnermag.com/destinations/international-destinations/ultimate-cuban-trail-running-tour/\nhostname: trailrunnermag.com\nsitename: Trail Runner\ndate: 2017-07-05\ncategories: ['International']\n---\nA few years ago, Sergi Pujalte began to dream of a stage race in the mountains of Cuba.\n\nA Barcelona native, Pujalte had done adventure races in various parts of Spain. He had directed the Barcelona Marathon, and organized a 450K mountain-bike race in Cuba. He decided Cuba should have a multi-day trail run as well.\n\n\u201cWe wanted to create a trail race in an exceptional environment where the runners could find beautiful landscapes, adventure and a good experience,\u201d he says.\n\nOnly 90 miles from Florida, Cuba has long been difficult for Americans to visit. But with the recent thaw in bilateral relations, things are changing\u2014good news for history buffs, cigar aficionados, Hemingway fans and, of course, trail seekers.\n\nRunners will be drawn to the mountainous jungles, bursting with tropical trees and flowering plants. But it\u2019s not as easy as throwing on a pair of aggressively lugged trail shoes and disappearing into the jungle.\n\nAccessing certain trails requires special permission granted only to organized tours. Plus, it\u2019s always tough to drop into a new area equipped only with a map and vague descriptions from the Internet, and find the trails most worth your time.\n\nThat\u2019s where Pujalte\u2019s race, Jungle Trail Run Cuba, comes in.\n\nThe five-stage, 140K race\u2014occurring for the first time this November\u2014handles the annoying logistical stuff. That way, you can focus on what you want to do anyway: Run in some rad places.\n\n**A Beautiful and Unique Jungle**\n\nJungle Trail Run Cuba takes place in Topes de Collantes Natural Park and its surroundings, a spectacular backdrop for five days of running.\n\nThe park is nestled in central Cuba\u2019s Escambray Mountains, a region of steep hillsides, lush river valleys and thick jungles with what Lonely Planet calls \u201cthe best network of hiking trails in Cuba.\u201d There are banana trees, coffee plantations and a World Heritage site with buildings that date back centuries.\n\nIt\u2019s also a place of thrilling biodiversity. Pujalte says Topes de Collantes contains \u201c15 species of pine trees, 12 kinds of eucalyptus and more than 100 ornamental plants\u201d that are constantly in bloom.\n\nJungle Trail Cuba makes full use of this natural beauty. Over multiple visits, Pujalte worked with local residents to find the best trails for runners to experience\u2014resulting in 140 challenging and diverse kilometers.\n\n**Staging the Race**\n\nTo many, \u201cstage racing\u201d conjures images of runners with 20-pound packs, GPSing their way through a trackless desert.\n\nJungle Trail Cuba offers a more supported experience, while introducing runners to wild terrain.\n\nThe race kicks off with an 8K loop that starts and ends near the quaint hotel where runners spend the first few days. A nighttime jaunt past a couple waterfalls on technical trails, this short stage is not to be underestimated.\n\nThe distance ramps up on day two with a 31K, point-to-point run that includes relics of the colonial past and ever-shifting vegetation as it weaves between northern and southern aspects.\n\nThe next day, runners embark on an epic, three-day tour. Day three\u2019s 32K route goes over technical jungle trails, across a river and in and out of small settlements. It includes views of the long, snaking Hanabanilla Reservoir.\n\nRunners end the day at an idyllic riverside campsite. It\u2019s \u201cperfect for a swim,\u201d Pujalte says\u2014and relaxation is recommended. The next day, stage four, is the race\u2019s longest, at 43K\u2014just over a marathon.\n\nIt\u2019s also the most remote. Narrow singletrack follows a river \u201cinto the deep Cuban jungle,\u201d as Pujalte says. The biggest climbs of the week face runners here, as they trace a meandering loop back to camp.\n\nNot that day five is a picnic. Thirty-three kilometers of steep climbs and primitive, overgrown trails stand between runners and the finish.\n\nJungle Trail Cuba is a five-day tour of trails, landscapes and sights that would be hard to replicate on one\u2019s own\u2014perfect for ambitious eco-tourists or those looking for a challenging but doable first stage race.\n\nAs Pujalte says, \u201cIt\u2019s a mix of adventure, emotion and challenge in the middle of a tropical Cuban jungle\u2014a winning cocktail all lovers of trail running will enjoy.\u201d\n\nFor a chance to win a free entry to the Jungle Trail Cuba Run, email marisa.tabares@rpm-mktg.es. Winners\u2019 names will be selected in a raffle.\n\n**Registration giveaway goes through July 31st.**" + }, + { + "title": "Anxious Cubans Count on Trump to Not Follow Through - Politico", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Anxious Cubans Count on Trump to Not Follow Through - Politico" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMirgFBVV95cUxOYjNBRjBYcU9MdV9TRnlOTGd4N0YtTFpiam8tTk9BSG5mdWNGWjdrOXNlMnRIWkYxVHNpSTkycWhELTJrUXBCMl9ZMFdyc1IxdkgxcDdZVUM0SWxkWi16bE4tVHotaWdWRkU2Qmg0aTlKeC05TDlldDI1Mk5FOVF1Ykd3a0lDZFFmRWNNejdMQlJOdWhweUJ0d0pZVlVsN3JvYl9TaUFhOWVGU3c2LXc?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2017/07/22/anxious-cubans-count-on-trump-to-not-follow-through-215409", + "id": "CBMirgFBVV95cUxOYjNBRjBYcU9MdV9TRnlOTGd4N0YtTFpiam8tTk9BSG5mdWNGWjdrOXNlMnRIWkYxVHNpSTkycWhELTJrUXBCMl9ZMFdyc1IxdkgxcDdZVUM0SWxkWi16bE4tVHotaWdWRkU2Qmg0aTlKeC05TDlldDI1Mk5FOVF1Ykd3a0lDZFFmRWNNejdMQlJOdWhweUJ0d0pZVlVsN3JvYl9TaUFhOWVGU3c2LXc", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sat, 22 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 22, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 5, + 203, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Anxious Cubans Count on Trump to Not Follow Through  Politico", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Anxious Cubans Count on Trump to Not Follow Through  Politico" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.politico.com", + "title": "Politico" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "The Ultimate Cuban Trail-Running Tour - Trail Runner Magazine", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "The Ultimate Cuban Trail-Running Tour - Trail Runner Magazine" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqAFBVV95cUxPY1NHODFjcjdwZFVQNVZvMU80aE9jYnFpYnlDTGpKR2JXRm13SmRhMHR6NHZDUHhuU3pCc2FMaUVJQ0VMMTN2NTNUZW9laHdkZk9pOUlIVjhYQUg3X3ZweTFoVy1UeExNcjdUeEJZLWpIVjBOY1VQbDk0OWRIM3EzSFhnVS1HY0RsVXBPTjlZQlZ3aTFLcE0xcFc5U2xPSUNuZUdfbWNueGI?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.wlrn.org/news/2017-07-31/going-home-to-a-place-theyve-never-been-cuba", + "id": "CBMiqAFBVV95cUxPY1NHODFjcjdwZFVQNVZvMU80aE9jYnFpYnlDTGpKR2JXRm13SmRhMHR6NHZDUHhuU3pCc2FMaUVJQ0VMMTN2NTNUZW9laHdkZk9pOUlIVjhYQUg3X3ZweTFoVy1UeExNcjdUeEJZLWpIVjBOY1VQbDk0OWRIM3EzSFhnVS1HY0RsVXBPTjlZQlZ3aTFLcE0xcFc5U2xPSUNuZUdfbWNueGI", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 05 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 5, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 186, + 0 + ], + "summary": "The Ultimate Cuban Trail-Running Tour  Trail Runner Magazine", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "The Ultimate Cuban Trail-Running Tour  Trail Runner Magazine" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.trailrunnermag.com", + "title": "Trail Runner Magazine" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Best Way to Visit Cuba? Go In Style on a Cruise For Worry-Free Travel - PR Newswire", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Best Way to Visit Cuba? Go In Style on a Cruise For Worry-Free Travel - PR Newswire" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiwgFBVV95cUxPU2wyZ3dlYnI0Qm95dXdWOURpZXl0SUF5WHlWTjA5elh3NFNZbE95N3JNQlpmNnhraXBzcHh2LXFNUXVQOUp0Qkg5UEdUbXU1VVhkUlZIczJ3OFJlS1ZBcEFWM2F6TTRHeFc5Z0p6MllPd0dHb3FuaGRzSU1tY3hJVm1feXVJeWpfak1rVHItclNjeHloT3JHc3YyR2N4RUJhSm1fLUlKRmx3ZUhVekhOVFNJa181MWNKX0U4S0I2WUUxQQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.reuters.com/article/business/cuba-seeks-to-revive-mining-sector-with-new-lead-and-zinc-mine-idUSKBN1A70IN/", + "id": "CBMiwgFBVV95cUxPU2wyZ3dlYnI0Qm95dXdWOURpZXl0SUF5WHlWTjA5elh3NFNZbE95N3JNQlpmNnhraXBzcHh2LXFNUXVQOUp0Qkg5UEdUbXU1VVhkUlZIczJ3OFJlS1ZBcEFWM2F6TTRHeFc5Z0p6MllPd0dHb3FuaGRzSU1tY3hJVm1feXVJeWpfak1rVHItclNjeHloT3JHc3YyR2N4RUJhSm1fLUlKRmx3ZUhVekhOVFNJa181MWNKX0U4S0I2WUUxQQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 06 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 6, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 187, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Best Way to Visit Cuba? 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Go In Style on a Cruise For Worry-Free Travel\nauthor: Carnival Corporation; Plc\nurl: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/best-way-to-visit-cuba-go-in-style-on-a-cruise-for-worry-free-travel-300483991.html\nhostname: prnewswire.com\ndescription: /PRNewswire/ -- Once a forbidden place, Cuba is a jewel in the Caribbean that should be on every traveler's bucket list. And now there's a way to confidently...\nsitename: Cision PR Newswire\ndate: 2017-07-06\n---\n# Best Way to Visit Cuba? Go In Style on a Cruise For Worry-Free Travel\n\nMIAMI, July 6, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Once a forbidden place, Cuba is a jewel in the Caribbean that should be on every traveler's bucket list. And now there's a way to confidently travel to Cuba \u2013 by cruise ship.\n\nTwo of the most popular and well-known cruise lines recently received approval for sailings to Cuba \u2013 Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line, two of the 10 cruise brands that are part of Carnival Corporation, the world's largest cruise company.\n\nCarnival Corporation made history in May 2016 when its Fathom brand became the first cruise line to sail from the U.S. to Cuba in more than 40 years. So the company has had plenty of recent experience in sailing guests to Cuba \u2013 and fine-tuning how to provide their guests with a great experience.\n\nAnd on June 29, history was again made as Carnival Cruise Line's 2,052-passenger Carnival Paradise set sail from Tampa to Havana, becoming the largest U.S. cruise ship ever to sail from the U.S. to Cuba.\n\nCarnival Cruise Line \u2013 recently named America's Most Trusted cruise line by Reader's Digest for the third consecutive year \u2013 is currently offering four- and five- day cruises starting this summer and fall that will overnight in Havana, giving guests the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the city's rich culture and history, as well as its vibrant nightlife. Five-day sailings also call at Key West or Cozumel.\n\nOn December 22, Holland America Line \u2013 widely recognized as a leader in the premium segment of the cruise industry \u2013 will become Carnival Corporation's third cruise line to sail to Cuba.\n\nHolland America Line's 1,350-passenger ms Veendam will sail on seven-, 11- and 12-day itineraries during the 2017-2018 winter and spring seasons from Fort Lauderdale. The ship's itineraries will visit Havana and some also call at Cienfuegos, known as Cuba's \"Pearl of the South,\" which will include shore excursions to the stunningly preserved colonial city of Trinidad. Depending on the itinerary, passengers will also have opportunity to explore other ports of call in the Caribbean, including the Bahamas and Mexico.\n\nThe opening of Cuba gives travelers a new, must-see destination to visit and explore in the Caribbean, the world's most popular cruising region. The Spanish-speaking country is like no other place, filled with legendary history, culture and architecture, with people known for their work ethic, entrepreneurship and vibrant spirit for life.\n\nOnly 90 miles from the U.S., Cuba was for generations a place that U.S. travelers could only dream about visiting on a cruise ship. While the country is more accessible than ever by sea, it still feels like another world.\n\nThe opportunity to learn more about the Cuban culture directly from the Cuban people only enhances the experience of visiting Cuba. People-to-people exchanges, which meet U.S. guidelines for travel to Cuba, are arranged by the cruise lines on half-day and full-day shore excursions. After a complete day of exploration and immersion, guests can also experience nighttime shore excursions.\n\n\"Guests will get the chance to participate in culturally enriching experiences such as visiting historical sites and engaging directly with the Cuban people, which ultimately will expand horizons,\" said Terry Thornton, Carnival Cruise Line's senior vice president of Port Operations. \"Our team has created a variety of great shore excursions that we are excited about and believe will create special memories for our guests.\"\n\nGlobal cruise travelers and enrichment seekers are naturally curious about new destinations and places that are not easily visited. Cuba is one of these places, and Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line guests will find opportunities to learn about a country that most have only seen in photos and news reports.\n\n\"Many of the tours are designed in order to have our guests interact with small family-run operations to give them an authentic Cuban experience,\" said Beth Bodensteiner, senior vice president of Revenue Management and Global Deployment for Holland America Line. \"We have done all the legwork in creating meaningful experiences that meet all U.S. regulatory requirements. In our view, cruising is the best and most worry-free way to travel to Cuba, even more so going forward.\"\n\n\"The history, culture, amazing sites, art, music and interactions with the Cuban people are unique to this special destination,\" added Thornton. \"A cruise to Cuba will provide lasting memories from being one of the first U.S. guests to visit this fascinating island nation.\"\n\n**Arriving in Havana**\n\nDo not miss the sail-in through the narrow channel into Old Havana, with the beautiful, historically significant Morro Castle watching over your cruise ship as it sails into the harbor. Among the city's stately buildings, keep an eye out for the Hotel Nacional, a landmark on the waterfront since 1930.\n\nOld Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a jaw-dropping place to explore, a history-rich capital city with cobblestone streets, examples of baroque and neoclassical architecture, broad plazas and the impressive Malec\u00f3n seawall on the Straits of Florida.\n\nYour ship will dock right in Old Havana, an easy walk to museums and other historical landmarks, such as La Bodeguita del Medio, where a scribble on the wall is attributed to Ernest Hemingway.\n\nIt's hard to believe this time capsule of a city is a metropolis that is home to two million people. It feels like a living breathing slice of history.\n\n**Cienfuegos and Trinidad**\n\nOn Holland America Line cruises, guests will have the additional opportunity to see the sophisticated neoclassical buildings of Cienfuegos, a port city carefully planned out by French settlers in the 19th century. Book an excursion to Trinidad and you will drive about 60 miles through the countryside to a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial city of cobblestone streets, palaces and plazas, founded in 1514 by the conquistador Diego Vel\u00e1zquez and located on a hilltop overlooking the Caribbean. Both Cienfuegos and Trinidad were significant trading capitals that like Old Havana are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.\n\n**Tips for Cuba cruise travel**\n\nWhile U.S. residents are free to travel to Cuba, you need to do so under regulations established by the U.S. government. Here are some things to know about traveling to Cuba:\n\n**Required paperwork.**All U.S. citizens and most international travelers must have a valid passport. All guests are required to obtain a visa in order to enter Cuba. The type of visa that a guest will need will depend on certain factors, including the reason for travel to Cuba. Most guests will be able to enter Cuba utilizing a \"Tarjeta Turistica\" (or tourist card) visa. Guests will be able to purchase the \"Tarjeta Turistica\" from the cruise line at a cost of $75 per person. The visa is distributed at the time of boarding your ship. You can alternatively obtain a visa from the Cuban consulate or a visa service, but going through your cruise line is a major benefit.**Health fee.**The Cuban government requires all guests to purchase health insurance, which will be automatically included in your port charges.**Shore excursions.**Shore excursions offered by Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line meet the people-to-people educational activities requirement. Both lines offer a wide range of shore excursions.**Money matters.**Your ATM and credit cards may not work in Cuba. You should plan on bringing cash for any purchases. Pending any updated U.S. Department of Treasury rules, U.S. dollars can be exchanged for Cuban Convertible Pesos (CUCs). There is an exchange office at the Havana cruise terminal. The transaction fee for converting U.S. dollars to CUCs is approximately 10%.**Staying in touch.**Wi-Fi in Cuba requires the use of cards with codes. You are best off sharing experiences with your friends using your ship's Internet access. If you are planning to use your cellphone, check with your provider regarding service and fees.\n\nSOURCE Carnival Corporation & plc\n\nShare this article" + }, + { + "title": "Luis Rodriguez Noa brings a bit of Cuba to Cape Cod - Wicked Local", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Luis Rodriguez Noa brings a bit of Cuba to Cape Cod - Wicked Local" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqgFBVV95cUxOV2MyYjJyWVpRcERHbnJNandBc0h2TzJEX3VPbFR4NEptWlNUeGk4WTNLTzRHb1lCaGJKVm9QRHBiSXJTNVZ4djUwak91bG5YMEIyMnNXYkFEb0pmOUpIUDJHVUN0S0NoU1hzRFFTemluTlBodmwxdjgyZjhDanZ0NnB0NDh0SGMxaEEwT2xNLU5YVkNpQndyemhJMDJLOVoxa2lxbTNDeVZiQQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.wickedlocal.com/story/provincetown-banner/2017/07/14/luis-rodriguez-noa-brings-bit/4502091007/", + "id": "CBMiqgFBVV95cUxOV2MyYjJyWVpRcERHbnJNandBc0h2TzJEX3VPbFR4NEptWlNUeGk4WTNLTzRHb1lCaGJKVm9QRHBiSXJTNVZ4djUwak91bG5YMEIyMnNXYkFEb0pmOUpIUDJHVUN0S0NoU1hzRFFTemluTlBodmwxdjgyZjhDanZ0NnB0NDh0SGMxaEEwT2xNLU5YVkNpQndyemhJMDJLOVoxa2lxbTNDeVZiQQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 14 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 14, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 195, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Luis Rodriguez Noa brings a bit of Cuba to Cape Cod  Wicked Local", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Luis Rodriguez Noa brings a bit of Cuba to Cape Cod  Wicked Local" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.wickedlocal.com", + "title": "Wicked Local" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Castro's casa: social work lessons from Cuba - The Guardian", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Castro's casa: social work lessons from Cuba - The Guardian" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqwFBVV95cUxOb1Rha3Z2ODlBUE9vMFVNWWJQbHUzWXlWYndycUFrTHNNXzUzamtuY0JZYUt5TGdmUDR4dWF2LTBaNl82TXdQcHdZOW00QkNRUlJyVWdjYU5HYkJMUHBKa2U4SWRkMHdjNDVhSzBZcXluaTh0LUV4V3NLZmVXQW8tS2JjQ1JjMkFmZ0h5VTE5U2FVOVhCeDRrR0E3Um9TcUU0MzZCMDA2OC1LOU0?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.tampabay.com/features/travel/colors-and-culture-in-cuba-overwhelm-first-time-visitor/2331580/", + "id": "CBMiqwFBVV95cUxOb1Rha3Z2ODlBUE9vMFVNWWJQbHUzWXlWYndycUFrTHNNXzUzamtuY0JZYUt5TGdmUDR4dWF2LTBaNl82TXdQcHdZOW00QkNRUlJyVWdjYU5HYkJMUHBKa2U4SWRkMHdjNDVhSzBZcXluaTh0LUV4V3NLZmVXQW8tS2JjQ1JjMkFmZ0h5VTE5U2FVOVhCeDRrR0E3Um9TcUU0MzZCMDA2OC1LOU0", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Tue, 18 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 18, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 1, + 199, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Castro's casa: social work lessons from Cuba  The Guardian", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Castro's casa: social work lessons from Cuba  The Guardian" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.theguardian.com", + "title": "The Guardian" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Colors and culture in Cuba overwhelm first-time visitor\nauthor: Times Staff Writer\nurl: https://www.tampabay.com/features/travel/colors-and-culture-in-cuba-overwhelm-first-time-visitor/2331580/\nhostname: tampabay.com\ndescription: I landed in Havana with many questions about what we would witness in our brief visit. There was so much rich history and culture I wanted to experience, but the stories I had heard from Cuban...\nsitename: Tampa Bay Times\ndate: 2017-07-26\ncategories: ['Travel']\n---\nI landed in Havana with many questions about what we would witness in our brief visit. There was so much rich history and culture I wanted to experience, but the stories I had heard from Cuban refugees rang in my brain. After the death of Fidel Castro, some Cuban immigrants danced in the streets of Tampa and told stories of escaping his regime for a better life in America. It was harrowing to think about everything they went through.But when the opportunity came for me and my husband to travel with a few of our friends, we didn't want to miss the opportunity to see Cuba, even just for a few days.It only took me a few minutes after leaving the airport to be visually overwhelmed. There are colors that exist in Cuba that I had never witnessed with my own eyes. Candy green apple cars driving down the brightly sunlit Malec\u00f3n. Pale blue water and neon yellow and blue walls. Busy squares of tourists and Cubans co-existing in this new reality of American tourism.In three packed days, we saw beautiful historic squares, drank mojitos at Hotel Nacional de Cuba and ducked our heads into tunnels used during the Cuban Missile Crisis. We took in so much art, so much history, that sometimes I had to remind myself to take a photo because I was overwhelmed. I've had many friends take incredible images in Havana and, more often than not, I was intimidated to take a photo before I even pressed down on the shutter. I felt what I was taking a photo of wouldn't rise to the level of their photos, illustrating this conflicting, incredible place.One of my favorite parts of our time in Cuba was getting to see the artist communities. It was wonderful to see Cuban artists express themselves through murals, public art installations and music. A guide showed us one that helped teach children different mediums of art. Another turned his entire neighborhood of Jaimanitas into a mosaic gallery.As a photojournalist, I always want to see below the surface, and it was impossible to do that in just a few days in Havana. But I'm so glad I got to witness mere glimpses into Cuba before the travel regulations were recently tightened. Contact Eve Edelheit at eedelheit@tampabay.com. Follow @eve_edelheit." + }, + { + "title": "Colors and culture in Cuba overwhelm first-time visitor - Tampa Bay Times", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Colors and culture in Cuba overwhelm first-time visitor - Tampa Bay Times" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqAFBVV95cUxQSGxZRV9naDk4anBKZ1VsUy1TZzIwaTQ0WTdLbkhIY2tnakpwd2N2WHR0TlhPNkdsLUd3UW5MZHlPcENDeHBPZy1uVkZ1cGdUQnI3eVRJeTRiY1UyaFM0UllDc284eTBkYTQ1SlpvRXc3RExrWE92elpCY1RnXzQ5eGZ3RGNxQ2RQbnBjbWJwSVJTTkU3c1M4UEIxbVd0a2dqb2trVUhJd0M?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.theguardian.com/social-care-network/2017/jul/18/social-work-cuba-fidel-castro-ageing-population", + "id": "CBMiqAFBVV95cUxQSGxZRV9naDk4anBKZ1VsUy1TZzIwaTQ0WTdLbkhIY2tnakpwd2N2WHR0TlhPNkdsLUd3UW5MZHlPcENDeHBPZy1uVkZ1cGdUQnI3eVRJeTRiY1UyaFM0UllDc284eTBkYTQ1SlpvRXc3RExrWE92elpCY1RnXzQ5eGZ3RGNxQ2RQbnBjbWJwSVJTTkU3c1M4UEIxbVd0a2dqb2trVUhJd0M", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 26, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 207, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Colors and culture in Cuba overwhelm first-time visitor  Tampa Bay Times", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Colors and culture in Cuba overwhelm first-time visitor  Tampa Bay Times" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.tampabay.com", + "title": "Tampa Bay Times" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Castro's casa: social work lessons from Cuba\nauthor: Rory Truell\nurl: http://www.theguardian.com/social-care-network/2017/jul/18/social-work-cuba-fidel-castro-ageing-population\nhostname: theguardian.com\ndescription: Social workers defy poverty, foster social justice and prevent social problems leading to poor health by supporting the oldest population in Latin America\nsitename: The Guardian\ndate: 2017-07-18\ncategories: ['Social Care Network']\ntags: ['Social Care Network,social care network: international social work hub,Work practices,social care network: adult social care,Cuba,Americas,Social care,Society,Older people']\n---\nIn a street of salmon and teal painted houses, once home to wealthy colonial administrators, sits the Casa del Abuelo. Now a community centre providing free day services for older inhabitants of the neighbourhood, Casa del Abuelo \u2013 or home for grandparents \u2013 was the first of many such facilities set up by Fidel Castro during a wave of social reforms to provide care and support for ordinary Cubans after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the US economic blockade crippled the country\u2019s economy.\n\nThe warm pastel colours of the building and Cuban flag fluttering in the humid Caribbean breeze accord well with the gentle kindheartedness I found inside.\n\nJulio, an 89-year-old member, clasped my hand as she showed me around the converted colonial mansion. She explained that each day in this community-led enterprise starts with breakfast and a discussion about politics.\n\nAfter this, it is exercise classes. \u201cThe key to long life is an active mind and body,\u201d she said. She then showed me the occupational therapy facilities and crafts that members make daily. \u201cThe men don\u2019t do this though,\u201d she said with a smile. \u201cThey prefer checkers \u2013 they think it\u2019s more manly.\u201d\n\nIn the large sitting room a picture of Castro hangs prominently, as does a photo of Che Guevara in the hallway. Castro opened the centre in 2000, the first in a wave of social care initiatives that are the envy of the world. He aimed to have a social worker in every community, with a ratio of at least one social worker to every 1,500 residents.\n\n\u201cThey build and support the relationships with each person here and their families,\u201d Julio said of the social workers\u2019 role at Casa del Abuelo. \u201cAnd if we don\u2019t have a family, we are supported to feel that we are part of a new family, here at the centre.\u201dSocial workers are also responsible for writing a biannual social diagnosis report, which informs local and national authorities about the needs of their communities. This often results in extra care programmes and the reorganisation of resources to support and enable people of all ages to access healthcare and education.\n\nAt the Cuban Association of Social Workers, however, staff explain that there are a number of challenges for the profession.\n\nThe ageing population is an issue. Since the revolution, life expectancy in Cuba has risen by more than 20 years. ** **But this is coupled with a low birth rate, meaning social work is focused on the needs of the oldest population in all of Latin America.\n\nAs a consequence of its economic isolation, Cuba also struggles with poverty. With a degree qualification that takes five years, social workers will earn the equivalent of just $40 per month, a little less than doctors.\n\nAnd while social work is considered an occupation, it is not recognised as an independent discipline, so qualifications are taught through the health or sociology departments of universities. This problem, by no means limited to Cuba, means the work is often seen as a second-tier vocation rather than a profession equal in importance to health or education.\n\nBut social work is what holds everything together.** **\u201cIn Cuba,\u201d explained social worker Alberto, \u201cthere are three elements to every medical diagnosis: physical, psychological and social.\u201d Social workers contribute to each of these, so only they can understand a person\u2019s total wellbeing. \u201cSocial work in Cuba is about the prevention of social problems that would otherwise lead to poor health,\u201d he said.\n\nThis is also how Julio perceived the role of the social worker at Casa del Abuelo. As she clasped my hand, leading me through cool passageways, she pointed to the photo collages of residents and their families on the walls. She said social workers regularly encourage families to visit to counter the depression that can be caused by isolation.\n\nIn Cuba, we see a lesson for all societies. Social work is recognised by the government as a way of fostering social justice and wellbeing through prevention strategies and the active support of marginalised people. This is something we can all learn from.\n\n**Join the Social Care Network for comment, analysis and job opportunities, direct to your inbox. Follow us on Twitter (@GdnSocialCare) and like us on Facebook. If you have an idea for a blog, read our guidelines and email your pitch to us at socialcare@theguardian.com.**\n\n**If you\u2019re looking for a social care job or need to recruit staff, visit Guardian Jobs.**\n\n## Comments (\u2026)\n\nSign in or create your Guardian account to join the discussion" + }, + { + "title": "Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy - BBC", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy - BBC" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiY0FVX3lxTE5CNm8xUi1mbm4wRGpSZ3ZiRUNLUnlfbWhSUXFvZ0lSVFIzUWplN2k1ckRwTmVSOUtRSHJnVjBTNEhlY0lsUk45QTd5VkVRLXFSUnp4TnNMaENDTF9FSmIzZ1l3RQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-40615948", + "id": "CBMiY0FVX3lxTE5CNm8xUi1mbm4wRGpSZ3ZiRUNLUnlfbWhSUXFvZ0lSVFIzUWplN2k1ckRwTmVSOUtRSHJnVjBTNEhlY0lsUk45QTd5VkVRLXFSUnp4TnNMaENDTF9FSmIzZ1l3RQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 14 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 14, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 195, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy  BBC", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy  BBC" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.bbc.com", + "title": "BBC" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy\nurl: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-40615948\nhostname: bbc.com\ndescription: Cuba's president said attempts to destroy the revolution would fail, in his first public comment on changes.\nsitename: BBC News\ndate: 2017-07-15\n---\n# Raul Castro denounces Donald Trump's Cuba policy\n\n**The president of Cuba has spoken publicly for the first time against US President Donald Trump's rollback of a thaw between the two countries a month ago.**\n\nPresident Raul Castro said \"attempts to destroy the revolution\" would fail.\n\nMr Trump has tightened restrictions on US travel to and business with the communist island.\n\nBut the US embassy in Havana, re-opened by former President Barack Obama, is still operating.\n\nMr Castro was speaking in front of Cuba's national assembly. It was his first public comment on the policy changes Mr Trump announced a month ago.\n\nState-run Cuban media quoted Mr Castro as saying that Mr Trump was using \"old and hostile rhetoric\" and had returned to \"confrontation that roundly failed over 55 years\".\n\nHe said: \"We reject the manipulation of the topic of human rights against Cuba, which can be proud of much in this area and does not need to receive lessons from the United States nor anyone.\"\n\nMr Trump anchored his policy rollback in human rights concerns raised by political opponents of Cuba's communist government, many of whom have fled to Miami where Mr Trump announced the changes on 16 June.\n\nMr Castro continued: \"Cuba and the United States can cooperate and live side by side, respecting their differences. But no one should expect that for this, one should have to make concessions inherent to one's sovereignty and independence.\"\n\nMr Castro will step down as president in seven months, but will remain the head of the country's Communist Party." + }, + { + "title": "How Fate of the Furious Made Movie History in Cuba - Collider", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "How Fate of the Furious Made Movie History in Cuba - Collider" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiYkFVX3lxTE1UQTlJOUZMeTA1QWZRbHBUeGJkMzdwRklPejVTcW14aE0tNjBZRW9VVmF2ZmhiSFNpTk5nV2ZIaThMNjlmZjlKM0tZc3R1OE9QUDF6NU5GUmZwanEwNncyZWRn?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://collider.com/fate-of-the-furious-cuba-scene/", + "id": "CBMiYkFVX3lxTE1UQTlJOUZMeTA1QWZRbHBUeGJkMzdwRklPejVTcW14aE0tNjBZRW9VVmF2ZmhiSFNpTk5nV2ZIaThMNjlmZjlKM0tZc3R1OE9QUDF6NU5GUmZwanEwNncyZWRn", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 13, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 194, + 0 + ], + "summary": "How Fate of the Furious Made Movie History in Cuba  Collider", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "How Fate of the Furious Made Movie History in Cuba  Collider" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://collider.com", + "title": "Collider" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: How Fate of the Furious Made Movie History in Cuba\nauthor: Haleigh Foutch\nurl: https://collider.com/fate-of-the-furious-cuba-scene/\nhostname: collider.com\ndescription: We went on the ground in Havana to learn about the historic Cuban set-piece in 'Fate of the Furious' and what it took to nail the film's highlight moment.\nsitename: Collider\ndate: 2017-07-13\ncategories: ['Interviews', 'Movie', 'Tyrese Gibson', 'F. Gary Gray', 'Fast and Furious']\n---\nHavana, Cuba is home to some of the richest muscle car aesthetic on the planet. So it's no surprise that the folks behind the ** Fast and Furious** franchise were among the first to roll through town after President Obama eased American travel restrictions to the long-embargoed nation in 2016. After all, nobody loves American Muscle more than Dom Toretto (\n\n**Vin Diesel**), the patriarch of the\n\n*Fast*family, whose globe-trotting adventures have raced to more than $5 billion at the worldwide box office.\n\nThe *Furious* films have been jet-setting around the globe ever since **Justin Lin** joined the fray and transported the action to the streets of Tokyo with 2006's sequel ** Tokyo Drift**. Since then, the franchise has traveled to Brazil, Abu Dhabi, and now, Cuba, where\n\n**and director**\n\n*Fate of the Furious***F. Gary Gray**(\n\n*Straight Outta Compton*) made history as the first American tentpole filmed in the streets of Havana in decades. Movie Magic has long transformed foreign countries into Havana. The 007 films headed to Puerto Rico and Spain for James Bond's Cuban adventures.\n\n**also used Puerto Rico as a double for Cuba, while**\n\n*Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights***and**\n\n*The Godfather, Part II***Sydney Pollack**'s\n\n**were filmed in the Dominican Republic. To see Havana itself on-screen is rare, to see it in an American blockbuster is all but unheard of.**\n\n*Havana*Naturally, that made for an ambitious and challenging shoot, but not necessarily in the ways you'd expect. According to **Richard Klein** of McLarty media, who served as the film's international political supervisor with who I chatted with in Havana where we toured the filming locations, both the American and Cuban governments were in full support of the production. \"[The Cuban government] knew the film franchise, knew how popular it was around the world, and knew that it came with no controversy. There's nothing political, there's nothing sensitive,\" he said. \"The American government wanted this to happen and succeed, because it represented the change in tone between the two countries, the fact that you could work together and succeed together, and again, it wasn't political.\"\n\nAs they say, the devil is in the details, so while the production was set in motion with support and enthusiasm, the biggest challenges arose in the form of complex, nuanced laws and on-the-ground practicalities. \"They're not difficult,\" said Klein. \"They just take time.\" Above all, infrastructure and equipment were the biggest hurdles that had to be cleared. \"They clearly don't have the infrastructure to support a movie of this size,\" Gray recalled when I caught up with him on the phone earlier this month. \"We're bringing in big-time actors and hundreds of crew and the technology we needed in order to shoot a tentpole movie. We brought in everything. I think we brought in everything from helicopters to a bottle of water.\"\n\nKlein echoed those sentiments, \"We had to bring everything. Because the technical needs of this movie are so extreme. Car chases, crashes, explosions, aerial photography. We had to bring everything. We floated a barge from Florida to carry everything. So on the one hand, it's making sure you have everything. And it's also, because of everything you're bringing, you have to make sure you're declaring it on both ends, so people know what's coming in and what's gone out.\"\n\nAs if filming in Cuba wasn't going to be challenging enough on a technical level, the *Furious* films are known for some of the biggest blowout action scenes in the biz, and the production in Havana was no different. Gray and his team sent cars barreling down the narrow alleys at 100 mph, they raced a car backward along the Malec\u00f3n, closing down the streets to capture the action. \"This would have been so much easier if it was a Woody Allen movie, with four characters, walking around the city,\" said Klein said with a laugh. \"We brought the mother of all films down here, to learn on. Right? Car chases, crashes, explosions, stunts, helicopters. That was a big, big challenge for everybody.\"\n\nAnd they did it all for a few minutes of screen time, designed to open *Fate of the Furious* with a bang. \"It was a massive logistical undertaking unto itself,\" said Gray. \"Just that sequence itself, only because the resources manpower and effort with all the effort we put into shooting in Cuba, I think it matches with what people put into shooting a full, feature-length film.\"\n\nBut once you're in Havana, it's immediately clear that the ambiance is worth the effort. It's the perfect setting for a* Furious* film. You may expect to see a handful of Vintage cars in Havana. You might have the misconception that the postcard pictures of the city selectively pick and choose the vehicles. In truth, the revamped muscle cars are everywhere, and like *Fate* tells us, they're treated as heirlooms passed down the generations, lovingly maintained with coats of mismatched paint and it whatever it takes to keep the engine running. Occasionally you'll see more modern cars from recent decades sprinkled throughout traffic, but at every turn, down every alley, you'll see the vintage vehicles. \"You see 1950s Chevy's here the way you see Toyota Corollas at home,\" Klein explained, \"It's like one out of every three cars.\"\n\nIt was also the perfect follow-up to ** Furious 7**'s massive international set piece, which saw Vin Diesel and\n\n**Paul Walker**driving full-speed through the Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi. Havana offered a complete change of pace; a city with new texture and character to add to the franchise. \"Abu Dhabi's all glass and steel,\" Klein explained. \"What's the opposite end of that? We started having conversations about, sort of older, colonial, classic but also really weathered and cities with texture. And Havana was very early in the conversation of beautiful, colonial city that kinda hasn't been developed in 50 years.\"\n\nIf that cultural texture was unusual and historic when they shot it, it may ultimately prove to be something of a preserved moment in time now that the current administration has decided to reinstate some of the pre-Obama travel restrictions. \"What we did was rare and now, it's even more rare,\" said Gray.\n\nLooking toward the future of the franchise, which will no doubt travel to more exotic and richly textured locales, Klein has a dream destination in mind -- the old city of Jerusalem. \"I think that these narrow alleys and this mid evil architecture and these locations that are 1500 years old and are beautifully preserved.\" As for franchise star **Tyrese Gibson**, who I also spoke with in Havana, he wants the films to end up in Africa at some point. \"I think it's time to travel to Cape Town, Johannesburg. We've done well in the Latin community. We've done well in the Middle East with Abu Dhabi. I think it's about time we take us to Cape Town and Jo-burg and really tap into that energy over there. I would love to do it, so I'm going to keep campaigning for it.\"\n\n\"You know, after Abu Dhabi and after Havana,\" said Klein, \"the challenge is, what's the location that becomes a character in the movie?\"\n\n*The Fate of the Furious *is now available on Digital HD, 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD and On Demand from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment." + }, + { + "title": "Catherine J. Weber Obituary July 5, 2017 - Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Catherine J. Weber Obituary July 5, 2017 - Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiZ0FVX3lxTE1GdnZyNHNjVkkzWnk4U3hNc3BUWWZEVVFJYkxlcmtjeVlFcHhLMXd4SkVKb2dJcjU3RXNPUy00d2VjUnI5VjlYQ0dTaG1Qak8xNHhnNE9zUEFpMXhkLWZ0emFMSWthY2c?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.caseymcnett.com/obituaries/catherine-j-weber", + "id": "CBMiZ0FVX3lxTE1GdnZyNHNjVkkzWnk4U3hNc3BUWWZEVVFJYkxlcmtjeVlFcHhLMXd4SkVKb2dJcjU3RXNPUy00d2VjUnI5VjlYQ0dTaG1Qak8xNHhnNE9zUEFpMXhkLWZ0emFMSWthY2c", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 05 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 5, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 186, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Catherine J. Weber Obituary July 5, 2017  Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Catherine J. Weber Obituary July 5, 2017  Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.caseymcnett.com", + "title": "Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Catherine J. Weber Obituary July 5, 2017 - Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services\nauthor: Casey-McNett Funeral Home; Cremation Services\nurl: https://www.caseymcnett.com/obituaries/catherine-j-weber\nhostname: caseymcnett.com\ndescription: View Catherine J. Weber's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.\nsitename: Casey-McNett Funeral Home and Cremation Services\ndate: 2025-01-16\ncategories: ['Obituaries']\n---\nInvite friends and family to read the obituary and add memories.\n\nWe'll notify you when service details or new memories are added.\n\nYou're now following this obituary\n\nWe'll email you when there are updates.\n\nPlease select what you would like included for printing:\n\nCuba City, Wisconsin Catherine J. Weber, 96, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Wednesday, July 5, 2017, at Epione Pavilion in Cuba City. Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 8, 2017, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Benton with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call after 9:00 a.m. Saturday at the church before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Benton is in charge of arrangements. Catherine was born on September 9, 1920, in Smelser Township, Wisconsin, the daughter of Thomas N. and Mary A. (Sullivan) Banfield. She married Walter J. Weber on October 29, 1941, at St. Rose of Lima Church in Cuba City. Together they farmed in rural Cuba City. Catherine was an avid gardener, and enjoyed sewing and crocheting. She also enjoyed spending time with her family, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Catherine was the oldest first time female skydiver in Wisconsin. Survivors include three daughters, Mary (Ralph) Bedard, of Ghent, NY, Alyce Weber, of Benton, and Doris (Mike) Alt, of Platteville; six sons, Joe Weber, of Benton, Jim (Kathy) Weber, of Hazel Green, Charlie (Betty) Weber, of Cuba City, Tom (Terry) Weber, of New Berlin, PA, Dennis Weber, of Cuba City, and Walter (Shelley) Weber, of Shullsburg; a sister, Mary \"Beebe\" McWilliams, of Cuba City; two brothers, Edwin (Arlene) Banfield and Louis Banfield, both of Cuba City; 23 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild with one on the way. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter; her parents; two daughters, Catherine Cruse and Helen Brink; four grandchildren, Rhonda and David Brink, Mathias Bedard, and Michael Alt; two sons-in-law, Alan Dietzel and James Cruse; two sisters, Imelda Alt and Luella O'Neill; and one brother, Sylvester Banfield. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net\n\nSaturday, July 8, 2017\n\n9:00 - 10:45 am (Eastern time)\n\nSt. Patrick's Church\n\nSaturday, July 8, 2017\n\nStarts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)\n\nSt. Patrick's Church\n\nVisits: 31\n\nThis site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the\n\nGoogle Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.\n\nService map data \u00a9 OpenStreetMap contributors" + }, + { + "title": "Buena Vista Social Club and Ruben Gonzalez Reemerge with Doc & Reissue - DownBeat", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Buena Vista Social Club and Ruben Gonzalez Reemerge with Doc & Reissue - DownBeat" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiowFBVV95cUxQajZqOVoxS2l2NTRhWUQxUVAta3Bkc01PY1R5cGt5UFllZDRxY2dZczZQNGVYcUdBbWdDMW5PbHhHNFhHRGdxdE5MZ2V6ZG05d0Nha3drZk1uT29uYUlCWmlPNUlSbUkwc3BORGtBS2MtZTY3UzJodUg5ZkRRWmhaSEhoNDM1NjhkbTFVQ3BWSHNGeTFqVG5qc0hlR2FSSWdUcXNJ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://downbeat.com/news/detail/buena-vista-social-club-and-ruben-gonzalez-reemerge-with-doc-reissue", + "id": "CBMiowFBVV95cUxQajZqOVoxS2l2NTRhWUQxUVAta3Bkc01PY1R5cGt5UFllZDRxY2dZczZQNGVYcUdBbWdDMW5PbHhHNFhHRGdxdE5MZ2V6ZG05d0Nha3drZk1uT29uYUlCWmlPNUlSbUkwc3BORGtBS2MtZTY3UzJodUg5ZkRRWmhaSEhoNDM1NjhkbTFVQ3BWSHNGeTFqVG5qc0hlR2FSSWdUcXNJ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 17 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 17, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 198, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Buena Vista Social Club and Ruben Gonzalez Reemerge with Doc & Reissue  DownBeat", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Buena Vista Social Club and Ruben Gonzalez Reemerge with Doc & Reissue  DownBeat" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://downbeat.com", + "title": "DownBeat" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Buena Vista Social Club and Ruben Gonzalez Reemerge with Doc & Reissue\nurl: http://downbeat.com/news/detail/buena-vista-social-club-and-ruben-gonzalez-reemerge-with-doc-reissue/\nhostname: downbeat.com\ndescription: It begins with a mention of the late Fidel Castro, the leader of Cuba\u2019s 1959 revolution. Thus, the sides are drawn, politically, in what should be viewed as a celebration of this great island nation\u2019s emergent history and ongoing,\u2026\nsitename: DownBeat Magazine\ndate: 2017-07-17\ncategories: ['News']\ntags: ['Review']\n---\nFeb 3, 2026 12:10 AM\n\n# In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959\u20132026\n\nKen Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2\u2026\n\nIt begins with a mention of the late Fidel Castro, the leader of Cuba\u2019s 1959 revolution. Thus, the sides are drawn, politically, in what should be viewed as a celebration of this great island nation\u2019s emergent history and ongoing, incredible cultural contributions to the world.\n\nA summer 2017 worldwide release, the film *Buena Vista Social Club: Adios* is a follow-up to the 1999 film *Buena Vista Social Club*, an international co-production directed by Wim Wenders with much assistance from Ry Cooder. Running just under two hours, this new feature-length documentary charts the history of Cuba and Cuban music, with insightful commentary and, of course, splendid performances galore.\n\nNamed for a *danzon*, the Buena Vista Social Club recorded a Grammy-winning album by the same name in 1996 that inspired the original documentary. *Adios* begins with the origins of the club itself, narrated by member Juan de Marcos. We see the present-day setting where there was once a thriving club scene and \u201ca society for black people\u201d\u2014it\u2019s now the site of a modern gym. There\u2019s a definite whimsical element to everything that follows, the tributes to many 20th-century Cuban masters of what was essentially *son* music both loving and informative.\n\n\u201cThe golden era of Cuban music\u201d spanned the decades of the 1940s and \u201950s. *Adios* traces the original lines that were formed as Spain invaded Cuba, slavery was introduced and the musical elements coming from Europe and Africa merged to create the melting pot of a new musical form. We learn of Cuba outlawing slavery in 1886, but also how the conga drums were still a banned instrument up until the 1940s.\n\nThis new Wenders/Cooder production has choice clips of historic artists like Arsenio Rodriguez, Compay Segundo and Ibrahim Ferrer performing for television and elsewhere, mostly in black and white. A hilarious Winston cigarette commercial, featuring Club member Omara Portuondo in an all-girl singing group, adds to the charm.\n\nServing as a kind of extension of the original documentary, *Adios* takes us for brief visits to New York City\u2019s Carnegie Hall, Ronnie Scott\u2019s club in London and to Amsterdam, as the players enjoy their better-late-than never (1998) worldwide celebrity status, performing before adoring audiences.\n\nWe get to see the ends of the island, Santiago and Havana, serving as hubs, with Havana having the lion\u2019s share of clubs and thriving night life. That was up until the revolution and Castro\u2019s mixed reactions to this music, a music which was both vital to the society\u2019s vibrant tourism and which represented much of what the revolution stood against. The film doesn\u2019t dwell on this but gives the impression that the musicians were behind their new leader and his shift to a new political climate. There is also an open-eyed look at how some musicians struggled to make ends meet despite the ongoing, deleterious effects of racism.\n\n*Adios* also conveys the heartwarming reality of when the Buena Vista Social Club performed at the White House in 2015 with President Obama, and when Obama visited Cuba in 2016, not to mention the group\u2019s performance in London\u2019s Hyde Park.\n\nThe legendary 19th-century Cuban writer/poet Jos\u00e9 Mart\u00ed is invoked in another loving context, pointing to the spirited and joyous, if arduous, legacies that the Buena Vista Social Club called forth: \u201cMusic is closer to the true world than the material world.\u201d\n\nAmong the highlights of the *Buena Vista Social Club: Adios* documentary is a focus on pianist Ruben Gonzalez, an integral member of this now-transient musical aggregate. Originally recorded at the same time as the original *Buena Vista Social Club* album in 1996, *Introducing Ruben Gonzalez* (World Circuit) finds this amazing virtuoso finally debuting as a solo artist at age 77 after having first recorded with Arsenio Rodriguez\u2019s classic band back in 1943.\n\nThis reissue, which sold more than a half-million when it was first released, includes two extended and one unreleased track, and is also available in a 180-gram vinyl format. Along with the notoriety that the Buena Vista Social Club generated, *Introducing Ruben Gonzalez* served as a kind of late-career boost for an artist who, at the time, no longer had a piano, due to wear and tear, and was suffering from arthritis. He died in 2003.\n\nClearly, Gonzalez sounds ageless, inspired on all 10 of the tracks here, playing solo but also with other Club musicians, including bassist Orlando \u201cCachaito\u201d Lopez, timbale player Amadito Valdes, bongo player Roberto Garcia, conga player Carlos Gonzalez and trumpeter \u201cGuajiro\u201d Mirabal. One would never guess there was anything holding Ruben back, physically or otherwise, at this late date. With no rehearsal, this is a collection of classic Cuban material played in a descarga/jam-session style, a combination of lovely and endearing melodies coupled with alternately entrancing and rhythmically dazzling workouts. **DB**\n\nFeb 3, 2026 12:10 AM\n\nKen Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2\u2026\n\nMar 2, 2026 9:58 PM\n\nJohn P. Hammond (aka John Hammond Jr.), a blues guitarist and singer who was one of the first white American\u2026\n\nJan 27, 2026 11:19 AM\n\nRichie Beirach, a pianist and composer who channeled a knowledge of modern classical music into his jazz practice,\u2026\n\nFeb 3, 2026 12:15 AM\n\nMidway through August, a few days after concluding a week at the Village Vanguard with the quartet that Andrew Cyrille\u2026\n\nFeb 3, 2026 12:09 AM\n\nFor the better part of a year, rumors have been swirling that Wynton Marsalis was going to step down as artistic and\u2026" + }, + { + "title": "It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters - Foreign Policy", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters - Foreign Policy" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqgFBVV95cUxPWVJmeHRXTHk1RUJJTG9kSHppM2tsNVVqMC1EVkxqRHFrVDRZWGJDSVlLMWk1dzZmQXFsODN1eS11bHJBYjVQRlBqbmxCd2RhNi04cS1NLUo0ZlRZbG5QR3U2OXlKS2NkUnJ5QmNvNUp4UHpxV3hJRDBJN3BzSUtuWHg4TS1GODQ0alRsY3c1bHdNMHNpc0cxOUVwdEJuTFhadkhWMUt2em5KQQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://foreignpolicy.com/2017/07/26/its-more-than-cigars-and-rum-why-cuba-matters-trump-castro-diplomacy/", + "id": "CBMiqgFBVV95cUxPWVJmeHRXTHk1RUJJTG9kSHppM2tsNVVqMC1EVkxqRHFrVDRZWGJDSVlLMWk1dzZmQXFsODN1eS11bHJBYjVQRlBqbmxCd2RhNi04cS1NLUo0ZlRZbG5QR3U2OXlKS2NkUnJ5QmNvNUp4UHpxV3hJRDBJN3BzSUtuWHg4TS1GODQ0alRsY3c1bHdNMHNpc0cxOUVwdEJuTFhadkhWMUt2em5KQQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 26 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 26, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 207, + 0 + ], + "summary": "It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters  Foreign Policy", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters  Foreign Policy" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://foreignpolicy.com", + "title": "Foreign Policy" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters\nauthor: James Stavridis\nurl: https://foreignpolicy.com/2017/07/26/its-more-than-cigars-and-rum-why-cuba-matters-trump-castro-diplomacy/\nhostname: foreignpolicy.com\ndescription: The Trump administration\u2019s rollback of Obama\u2019s opening to Cuba is a step in the wrong direction.\nsitename: Foreign Policy\ndate: 2017-07-26\ncategories: ['Voice']\n---\n# It\u2019s More Than Cigars and Rum: Why Cuba Matters\n\n## The Trump administration\u2019s rollback of Obama\u2019s opening to Cuba is a step in the wrong direction.\n\nThe fraught strategic relationship of the United States with Cuba \u2014 which was then a Spanish colony \u2014 began on Feb. 15, 1898, when the USS *Maine*, an aging, undersized battleship, mysteriously blew up in Havana Harbor. The Hearst newspaper chain, in what we would think of today as \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201calternative facts,\u201d created an inflammatory story about Spanish saboteurs having destroyed the warship. As was the case after the Pearl Harbor attack almost half a century later, the nation was suddenly galvanized into war. \u201cRemember the *Maine*\u201d became the battle cry; a young Theodore Roosevelt lead a daring charge up San Juan Hill, which later won him the Medal of Honor, and launched his political career.\n\nCuba began a brief sojourn as a quasi-American colony, the United States stumbled its way through administering it, and eventually it became an independent nation, but one economically intertwined with its neighbor to the north until the communist revolution led by the Castro brothers in 1959. Cue a brutal dictatorship, the long twilight of the embargo, and a failed theory of how to shift the trajectory of America\u2019s Cuba policy. When I spent three years as the head of U.S. Southern Command several years ago, we saw Cuba not as a security threat but as a potential source of refugees, the location of a detention camp at Guant\u00e1namo Bay, and an irritant to the Cuban-American population of southern Florida \u2014 but we saw it neither as a serious security challenge nor an opportunity for diplomatic engagement.\n\nThe fraught strategic relationship of the United States with Cuba \u2014 which was then a Spanish colony \u2014 began on Feb. 15, 1898, when the USS *Maine*, an aging, undersized battleship, mysteriously blew up in Havana Harbor. The Hearst newspaper chain, in what we would think of today as \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201calternative facts,\u201d created an inflammatory story about Spanish saboteurs having destroyed the warship. As was the case after the Pearl Harbor attack almost half a century later, the nation was suddenly galvanized into war. \u201cRemember the *Maine*\u201d became the battle cry; a young Theodore Roosevelt lead a daring charge up San Juan Hill, which later won him the Medal of Honor, and launched his political career.\n\nCuba began a brief sojourn as a quasi-American colony, the United States stumbled its way through administering it, and eventually it became an independent nation, but one economically intertwined with its neighbor to the north until the communist revolution led by the Castro brothers in 1959. Cue a brutal dictatorship, the long twilight of the embargo, and a failed theory of how to shift the trajectory of America\u2019s Cuba policy. When I spent three years as the head of U.S. Southern Command several years ago, we saw Cuba not as a security threat but as a potential source of refugees, the location of a detention camp at Guant\u00e1namo Bay, and an irritant to the Cuban-American population of southern Florida \u2014 but we saw it neither as a serious security challenge nor an opportunity for diplomatic engagement.\n\nAll that changed with the Barack Obama administration\u2019s opening of Cuba, which was the right course of action. Capitalism is a fitting weapon to direct at the current Cuban regime. Now that President Donald Trump has executed an ill-advised and halfhearted effort to reverse some of the Obama changes, it is time to examine why Cuba matters to the United States and what we should do going forward.\n\nDiplomatically, an open, pragmatic relationship with Cuba moves the United States into a vastly stronger position in the hemisphere. Our ability to work with powerful partners like Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil \u2014 all of which have sensible relationships with Havana \u2014 is strengthened by a common approach. If we seriously want a solution in Venezuela, for example, we should be working in concert with our friends through the Organization of American States (OAS) \u2014 a prospect that would be far easier if we had an aligned position on Cuba. Ditto on our counternarcotics efforts throughout the hemisphere.\n\nShould we diplomatically confront the Castro regime on its evident human rights failures? Of course \u2014 and that will be more likely to succeed in the OAS if we are perceived to have a pragmatic relationship with Cuba. We will have more diplomatic capital, both in the OAS and in Havana if we maintain significant diplomatic relations and a robust embassy presence. Building a bridge to Cuba, instead of relying on the failed policies of building walls, helps us throughout the region.\n\nEconomically, the outcry from American businesses makes it clear that further openings are good for the United States. Jobs will flow from the increased tourism, airline flights, agriculture, information technology, and other manifestations of trade. If the principal object of the Trump administration is really \u201cputting America to work,\u201d moving away from or freezing economic openings with Cuba only diminishes U.S. jobs at the expense of European and Asian firms that are only too happy to do the work.\n\nAnd, strategically, an open relationship with Cuba has much to offer. We need Cuban partnership to help our efforts to interdict narcotics, deal with refugee flows, partner on medical diplomacy, and team up on disaster relief. Keeping the strategically important naval station at Guant\u00e1namo Bay is a big net positive. The potential to work with this massive island \u2014 the largest in the Caribbean \u2014 is significant.\n\nWhat should we do?\n\nFirst, we should reverse the Trump decisions in the economic and visa spheres, returning to the more sensible Obama baseline. We need to provide more economic incentives, creating carrots that can then become bargaining chips on human rights issues. This will also do more than anything else to build a groundswell of public resistance to the broken, authoritarian regime led by a doddering Ra\u00fal Castro.\n\nSecond, the Guant\u00e1namo Bay naval station, as I have written elsewhere, should over time be closed as a detention camp and reimagined as an international installation with the capability to respond to natural disasters throughout the region, stockpile humanitarian supplies, base ships and aircraft conducting medical diplomacy, act as a refugee center in the case of unrest or disaster in the Caribbean, and support counternarcotic efforts.\n\nThird, Cuba should become part of the counternarcotic efforts that are conducted out of Key West, Florida \u2014 just 90 miles from Cuban shores at the very successful Joint Interagency Task Force South. We already have 15 nations participating in those operations, which have interdicted thousands of tons of cocaine over the past decade; Cuba as a partner would be a powerful signal and a means to improve our capability.\n\nFourth, we need to keep the pressure on the Cuban regime by publicizing its misdeeds, shining a light on dissidents, improving our strategic communication with the Cuban people, and taking violations to the OAS.\n\nThe United States and Cuba have much to offer each other; the sooner we get our relationship in balance and move forward on a path to greater integration, the more we will benefit economically, diplomatically, and strategically. We need to look beyond the emotions of the USS *Maine* explosion and the half-century of communism to the potential future we could enjoy \u2014 including the rum and cigars.\n\nPhoto credit: RHONA WISE/AFP/Getty Images\n\n**James Stavridis**is a retired four-star U.S. Navy admiral and NATO supreme allied commander who serves today as the dean of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. His latest book is\n\n*The Leader's Bookshelf.*X: @stavridisj" + }, + { + "title": "To beat Trump restrictions, Americans rush plans to visit Cuba - Naples Daily News", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "To beat Trump restrictions, Americans rush plans to visit Cuba - Naples Daily News" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiuwFBVV95cUxPZ2NYSTZqMzhHZzZhNmswVmgxd3BOQVYtbEhSNnhVOXhEcFpBMC10a0luNFNqZ1FONXJyVzZOc2ZqVHd2SUJnVm42WkNrSGxCU3RrY2JCb1pQbGdmSlBaci1kM2xTUTJ1UkExc25LRVVVVjhTTFR6MDU4Y0NRRk5kcW8tY0xsNW5lUjRoeGNjMGZxX1BiR1JZRVFSakhfMG1YUlNqSGFfS0p0RmJSSFRuejFQUktJRmlzdWJN?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/politics/2017/07/15/americans-rush-cuba-wake-trump-travel-announcement/478831001/", + "id": "CBMiuwFBVV95cUxPZ2NYSTZqMzhHZzZhNmswVmgxd3BOQVYtbEhSNnhVOXhEcFpBMC10a0luNFNqZ1FONXJyVzZOc2ZqVHd2SUJnVm42WkNrSGxCU3RrY2JCb1pQbGdmSlBaci1kM2xTUTJ1UkExc25LRVVVVjhTTFR6MDU4Y0NRRk5kcW8tY0xsNW5lUjRoeGNjMGZxX1BiR1JZRVFSakhfMG1YUlNqSGFfS0p0RmJSSFRuejFQUktJRmlzdWJN", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sat, 15 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 15, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 5, + 196, + 0 + ], + "summary": "To beat Trump restrictions, Americans rush plans to visit Cuba  Naples Daily News", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "To beat Trump restrictions, Americans rush plans to visit Cuba  Naples Daily News" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.naplesnews.com", + "title": "Naples Daily News" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Trump to suspend lawsuit provision of Helms-Burton Act in August - 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VOA - Voice of America English News", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuban Activists Say North Korea Fighting Losing Censorship Battle - VOA - Voice of America English News" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiogFBVV95cUxObldVNnl4WnZrWXlKTzA0QmJ5Z0lLR1EyaVpvekM5bTJJUDV1WjZBeXRhUE5hVG1fRzNhSmFaRHhqd0ZzcC1GRFdvWGVYTlMtekVpTzFWV2JLbUdjN2FRb29DWVBiU2RJQUNDSkt0aGlaWFZKUmk4T0NsbFNxTlNzWS1peWFLQWRsQ1RPWWF4NDJFN1pUNTlteDBGbXJieWZMM3fSAaQBQVVfeXFMT3B6WlhQTzMxekRteFRyelI4cXZYZlcxOG5TVWZQYklKcHR3T3NQVS1GeGdyN2x5TGpMQWtMTllqYUZJOW8ycnUxd0dHSVYwcWFCZDB6ZGxCR2RYaURMYzNsWVVTR1RaLURfSnJQUFNzWWFhMzhUQzRBeklSMXo3RW9Dc2pWalVDZVgzaDRpSVFveHlCQWxlTng0RGlFSmtGUlhRNG4?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.voanews.com/a/cuban-activists-north-korea-fighting-losing-censorship-battle/3957902.html", + "id": "CBMiogFBVV95cUxObldVNnl4WnZrWXlKTzA0QmJ5Z0lLR1EyaVpvekM5bTJJUDV1WjZBeXRhUE5hVG1fRzNhSmFaRHhqd0ZzcC1GRFdvWGVYTlMtekVpTzFWV2JLbUdjN2FRb29DWVBiU2RJQUNDSkt0aGlaWFZKUmk4T0NsbFNxTlNzWS1peWFLQWRsQ1RPWWF4NDJFN1pUNTlteDBGbXJieWZMM3fSAaQBQVVfeXFMT3B6WlhQTzMxekRteFRyelI4cXZYZlcxOG5TVWZQYklKcHR3T3NQVS1GeGdyN2x5TGpMQWtMTllqYUZJOW8ycnUxd0dHSVYwcWFCZDB6ZGxCR2RYaURMYzNsWVVTR1RaLURfSnJQUFNzWWFhMzhUQzRBeklSMXo3RW9Dc2pWalVDZVgzaDRpSVFveHlCQWxlTng0RGlFSmtGUlhRNG4", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Tue, 25 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 25, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 1, + 206, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Cuban Activists Say North Korea Fighting Losing Censorship Battle  VOA - Voice of America English News", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuban Activists Say North Korea Fighting Losing Censorship Battle  VOA - Voice of America English News" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.voanews.com", + "title": "VOA - Voice of America English News" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Cuban Activists Say North Korea Fighting Losing Censorship Battle\nauthor: Brian Padden\nurl: https://www.voanews.com/a/cuban-activists-north-korea-fighting-losing-censorship-battle/3957902.html\nhostname: voanews.com\ndescription: In Cuba, as in North Korea, growing demand for foreign movies and dramas has made smuggling an increasingly profitable venture\nsitename: Voice of America (VOA News)\ndate: 2017-07-25\ncategories: ['East Asia']\ntags: ['East Asia, Americas, Cuba, North Korea, censorship']\n---\nDespite North Korea\u2019s increased efforts to prevent outside information from entering the country, international activists say technology and market forces will eventually overcome state censorship.\n\nNorth Korea is one of the most isolated nations in the world, where foreign media is prohibited and most people don't have access to the Internet. The repressive state has even executed citizens for distributing media from South Korea, according to the Transitional Justice Working Group that documents human rights abuses in North Korea.\n\n**Familiar pattern**\n\nStill it is following a pattern similar to other authoritarian regimes that view knowledge as power and have tried to limit and control access to outside information. This according to leaders from Cuban and Myanmar (or Burmese) independent organizations working to evade authoritarian censorship and outside information restrictions in their own countries, who were recently in Seoul to share their experiences and strategies with Korean counterparts.\n\n\u201cI believe that the increasing Internet penetration is going to be inevitable. Eventually the government will need this and needs this for its own development,\u201d said Rafeal Duval with the independent news organization Cubanet.\n\nIn Cuba, as in North Korea, growing demand for foreign movies and television dramas, not political news, has made smuggling in outside information an increasingly profitable venture.\n\nUsing a variety of USB drives, Micro SD cards and DVD discs, Cubanet distributes through the black market a weekly compilation of video content, audio podcasts and entire webpages known as \u201cEl Paquete\u201d for its growing list of customers in Cuba.\n\nDuval said Cuban authorities charged with preventing the influx of foreign media are eventually co-opted by being bought off and often becoming users themselves.\n\n\u201cThey\u2019re going to realize the impossibility of a ban because of corruption,\u201d he said.\n\nAnother Cuban project called Apretaste targeted the country\u2019s elites, the estimated 25 percent of Cubans who have access to email. Apretaste works as a proxy search engine in which volunteers in places like Florida email results to over 100,000 Cuban inquiries each month.\n\n\u201cRight now we are giving to the people in Cuba something that they really need. We are giving them a window to see you outside the island,\u201d said Salvi Pascual who founded Apretaste.\n\nPrior to democratic reforms that began in Myanmar in 2011, the military government highly censored the Internet. But the porous border with Thailand and the proliferation of satellite TV receivers in the country made it easier for exile opposition groups to penetrate the country\u2019s information blockade.\n\n**Emerging black market**\n\nThe North Korean economy has been steadily growing in recent years despite increased international sanctions imposed on Pyongyang for its continued nuclear and ballistic missiles tests. In the last year, the country\u2019s gross domestic product rose 3.9 percent, driven in part by the exports of coal and other minerals, according to Bank of Korea in Seoul.\n\nHowever an emerging private market that is tolerated but not sanctioned by the communist state is also driving economic growth. A survey by the Beyond Parallel project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, DC says most North Koreans now earn 75 percent of their household income from the black market. The Illicit export of North Korean seafood, shoes, cigarettes and cooking oil has given people new purchasing power to bring in outside information and technology.\n\nThe number of households with TVs and DVD players in North Korea has grown to the point of being \u201cubiquitous\u201d said Nat Kretchun, Deputy Director of the Open Technology Fund, a group that promotes internet freedom and is funded by the U.S. government through the Voice of America\u2019s sister organization Radio Free Asia.\n\nAnd the number of legal North Korean cell phones users has also been growing in recent years. Initially many of these domestic phones were used to transfer unsanctioned media and information files but recent updates to the phone\u2019s operating system installed inhibiting censorship and surveillance software.\n\n\u201cIt effectively blocks all unsanctioned files from being used on domestic phones,\u201d said Kretchun.\n\nHowever for every measure taken by authoritarian governments to block outside information, activists are developing technological counter measures.\n\nThat said North Korean defector Kim Seung-chul, who founded North Korea Reform Radio, which broadcasts into the North, expressed frustration that the South Korean government seems to provide less funding to groups working to penetrate the North\u2019s closed information environment than do these Cuban and Myanmar exiles groups.\n\n\u201cThe South Korean government, conservatives, veterans, and famous people have a lot of money but they do not use the money for this. They get angry about North Korea\u2019s situation, but they do not act,\u201d said Kim.\n\nYoumi Kim in Seoul contributed to this report." + }, + { + "title": "Viaje Fant\u00e1stico in Havana - Atlas Obscura", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Viaje Fant\u00e1stico in Havana - Atlas Obscura" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiYkFVX3lxTE5XS3FTaE9kRVpCSVg0WlBMRkZRMzRneDJsSTFwX1hQWXF5T0M3VFk0WEJnWmtScE9vcGY0Q1ZCeHQzTWdJM3VCMFRvRG9BODlXX0h1YjllS2JOblgwaThMWHJB?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/cuba/article161810183.html", + "id": "CBMiYkFVX3lxTE5XS3FTaE9kRVpCSVg0WlBMRkZRMzRneDJsSTFwX1hQWXF5T0M3VFk0WEJnWmtScE9vcGY0Q1ZCeHQzTWdJM3VCMFRvRG9BODlXX0h1YjllS2JOblgwaThMWHJB", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 21 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 21, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 202, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Viaje Fant\u00e1stico in Havana  Atlas Obscura", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Viaje Fant\u00e1stico in Havana  Atlas Obscura" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.atlasobscura.com", + "title": "Atlas Obscura" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Cuba\u2019s median salary is higher, but life remains difficult for workers with no other income - Miami Herald", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuba\u2019s median salary is higher, but life remains difficult for workers with no other income - Miami Herald" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMijwFBVV95cUxPRGlFMGlwaTRSa3NiemVwTDMwNEFUQkpUeUhPaFFOUHpvb1hzMHB3VEpBT0pXLWlGaWdjVXEzbDhwa2MxNWVWeFhHNVMwbk5uWFk2azVNakxIZ3JyNjZ3NXlSeGFpRlV2Ql9sa1d6ckRueFZVNHRaWDJ6bW13M1k0UFRoOHZyOTloRFRoVHpKTQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/viaje-fantastico", + "id": "CBMijwFBVV95cUxPRGlFMGlwaTRSa3NiemVwTDMwNEFUQkpUeUhPaFFOUHpvb1hzMHB3VEpBT0pXLWlGaWdjVXEzbDhwa2MxNWVWeFhHNVMwbk5uWFk2azVNakxIZ3JyNjZ3NXlSeGFpRlV2Ql9sa1d6ckRueFZVNHRaWDJ6bW13M1k0UFRoOHZyOTloRFRoVHpKTQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 17 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 17, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 198, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Cuba\u2019s median salary is higher, but life remains difficult for workers with no other income  Miami Herald", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuba\u2019s median salary is higher, but life remains difficult for workers with no other income  Miami Herald" + }, + "source": { + "href": "http://www.miamiherald.com", + "title": "Miami Herald" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry - Havana Times", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry - Havana Times" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMic0FVX3lxTE13eXRSYnhxZVFTR1Z6NFBNSm9IUUJfUEFuNkZ3c3ZodTVDcDZkVWtUWEdqMEU4VVk0eEkwYmx4Z0pENGl6anNELWdFMUlPMHFzRUNMdm1aY012TlJNSzRyczNPWmo1UFdKSVc5eXh4dlNMRXM?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://havanatimes.org/opinion/requiem-to-cubas-cattle-industry/", + "id": "CBMic0FVX3lxTE13eXRSYnhxZVFTR1Z6NFBNSm9IUUJfUEFuNkZ3c3ZodTVDcDZkVWtUWEdqMEU4VVk0eEkwYmx4Z0pENGl6anNELWdFMUlPMHFzRUNMdm1aY012TlJNSzRyczNPWmo1UFdKSVc5eXh4dlNMRXM", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sat, 08 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 8, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 5, + 189, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry  Havana Times", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry  Havana Times" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://havanatimes.org", + "title": "Havana Times" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry - Havana Times\nauthor: Circles Robinson\nurl: https://havanatimes.org/opinion/requiem-to-cubas-cattle-industry/\nhostname: havanatimes.org\ndescription: Many articles have appeared in national and regional media which have delicately touched upon and avoided getting to the heart of the causes, the determining factors which have influenced the grave regression and the danger of extinction of cattle in Cuba.\nsitename: Havana Times\ndate: 2017-07-08\ncategories: ['Opinion']\n---\n# Requiem to Cuba\u2019s Cattle Industry\n\n**By Alberto N Jones**\n\nHAVANA TIMES \u2014 Many articles have appeared in national and regional media which have delicately touched upon and avoided getting to the heart of the causes, the determining factors which have influenced the grave regression and the danger of extinction of cattle in Cuba.\n\nEver since the \u201880s-\u201990s, there has been a progressive and steady decline in animal mass, some of which has been justified by the lack of concentrate feeds for hybrid and pure-breed animals, medicines, the decline in veterinary services, and that of artificial insemination. However, in other cases, this has to do with the lack of control, of pastures and forage, poor management, material resources and a substantial loss of the cattle raising spirit.\n\nA thorough study needs to be carried out about this problem, to change the course and dismantle a system which continues to work in a different context, on the same basis it was conceived upon half a century ago. Organizational, analytical, statistical and income methods need to be changed, as their results don\u2019t coincide with today\u2019s reality and lead to the mechanical repetition of the same procedures which have put the industry on the brink of collapse.\n\nCreating investigative and critical studies and reports in the media are urgently needed, without fear of reprisals for exposing the fraud, digressions, theft, privileges and corruption committed by those who hide behind a false veil of secrecy, which encourages crime and unethical behavior.\n\nSociety has become desensitized with repetitive reports on meager self-imposed targets not being met year after year which alternate with other triumphalist, sugar-coated articles that have nothing to do with the ordinary Cuban\u2019s reality.\n\nThese negative results are more tragic, painful and depressing in Cuba than in the rest of the world, due to the enormous effort and the billions of dollars that the country invested in training tens of thousands of professionals and technicians in every field of agriculture, in creating and equipping universities, research institutes with technology, genes, artificial insemination, automatic milking, pasteurization and unlimited foreign technical assistance.\n\nFidel Castro warned many a time about the importance of the livestock industry and foresaw the fact that its workers would produce just as much health for the Cuban people as the Public Health Ministry would. However, multiple human errors, dogmatism, careerism and internal fights, ran this monumental contribution to the sciences into the ground and deprived people of such an important food source.\n\nHow can we explain to ourselves today, without beating around the bush, that we need the same country that shone brightly in the \u201870s, attracting prominent agricultural figures from across the globe to visit or work in Cuba like Andres Voisin, Lubos Holy, Bona Dona, Willie, Erno Turi, Bohaz, Shimon, Mocsari and others?\n\nProfessor Andres Voisin\u2019s heart didn\u2019t hold out and he died in Cuba, after seeing his dream come true and his studies validated in the mass presence and effectiveness of intensive grazing within the country, which led his wife to decide that his remains should rest in our country and not in France.\n\nThousands of highly-qualified professionals and scientists trained in Cuba, the Soviet Union, England, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Holland and Switzerland, all saw their knowledge, plans, guidelines and directives vetoed by administrative and political bosses without any grounds or training in the profession. They imposed empirical and binding criteria, which slowed down the work and demoralized many who have made their mark in this world, contributing with their knowledge and experiences to others who have known how to recognize them.\n\nNegative results categorically prove the disastrous interference of bosses assigned to posts they are unqualified for. The Alcazar de Contramaestre ranch in Santiago de Cuba, is perhaps the best livestock ranch in Cuba, where Maria Antonio Pujol has never allowed or accepted empirical meddling from anyone in the management, feeding and reproduction of her livestock.\n\nFrom that bright beacon which so many people in Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean had placed their hopes on, Cuba is now faced with the pitiful need to import cows from Paraguay, one of the least developed countries in Latin America, technologically-speaking.\n\nLuckily, not all has been lost. All Cuba has to do is recognize and admit its mistakes, giving up on the failed attempt to insist on trying to supply the population with milk produced in Cuba, getting rid of national dependence on imported fodder, the susceptibility and deadliness of tropical vectors for dairy cows and their intolerance to tropical climates, and using all national livestock for meat production instead.\n\nAdd to the above the fact that Cuba has millions of hectares of idle land, taken over by weeds. If what has been established in the Agrarian Reform Law were put into practice and every farmer received 30 hectares (67 acres) of land on a lease contract, supply stores with farming products could be created, thousands of retired technicians and professionals could return to work for a decent salary, and machinery, farming tools and transport vehicles could be sold. Cuba could become the largest producer of organic meat in the world in less than 10 years, which is worth 8-10 times more than milk and 4-5 times more that non-organic meat on the international market.\n\nAll of the above can also be applied to the deteriorated small livestock industry, of birds, pigs and other animals, which contradict and condemn laziness and perhaps the source of some people\u2019s corruption who insist on importing products that Cuba is perfectly equipped to produce, manufacture and export.\n\nYou were fortunate in finding cheese Stephen.\n\nNo milk or cheese to found except in the tourist stores. Cuba can not even afford to pay the shipping on the importing of powered milk. Livestock are not fed a diet to thrive on. The people are also suffering now for the lack of good food. People are not given the tools to grow enough food, and too many supervisors. A very smart manager told me that make people have control and be expect to do a good job, very little supervision or rules are required.\n\nTell me Sky, where can a Cuban buy beef anywhere \u2013 apparently you are saying that they can in Havana? And where else?\n\nI have often joked that the average US citizen is maintained by maize. Cattle, pigs, poultry are all fed maize, much of the processed food includes maize derivatives and when relaxing at the ball game, what do US citizens eat \u2013 popcorn! Maybe eating maize explains the current President\u2019s hair colour. Yes, in North America the wide use of hormones for livestock is disturbing, not allowed in Europe! But, perhaps more alarming is the use of copper as a growth promoter in hogs. Copper lodges in the liver \u2013 pigs liver is the main base for pates widely sold. People eat the pate and guess where that copper lodges?\n\nYes that would make sense. A bigger population to feed + raw milk does not travel far well. Re meat, Well then buy from a store \u2013 the one on Galiano or the shops in eg Carlos Tercero or La Epoca have frozen and fresh. Not all Cubans would be able to afford it mind you. BTW are you from the US? Personally I wouldn\u2019t consume meat produced from the US given all the hormones and other crap they put into the cattle no matter how refrigerated it is\u2026.\n\nVictor very very few people in Cuba ever get to drink raw milk \u2013 so you were fortunate. sometimes it is possible to purchase homogenized milk in the various GAESA subsidiary stores and sometimes powdered milk.\n\nThe permuta for under age 7 allows 2 packets of powdered milk per month and 3 packets of \u2018complete\u2019 milk.\n\nHope you enjoyed Pinar del Rio, as it is far more representative of \u2018real\u2019 Cuba than the tourist hot spots.\n\nI was in Havana in May. No raw milk to be found. Only powdered milk on the shelves. Plus, little else on the shelves.\n\nMeat? If you\u2019ve seen the outdoor butcher shops, you wouldn\u2019t consume anything they offer which was once living.\n\nCarlyle, the powers to be in Cuba just don\u2019t get it. Sad story and will get sadder if the system continues to plod along.\n\nI was impressed by the small family run dairy farms that ring the city of Pinar del Rio and supply it with raw milk. I was surprised to learn that cattle and horses can be sold freely among farmers, unlike with automobiles.\n\nWhen I last visited Cuba about 8 years ago I was impressed with the small farms that ringed Pinar del Rio city and provided milk for the city. They were providing raw milk which was cherished by the families who received it. I suspect all Cuba is drinking raw milk.\n\nIt takes Dr. Jones a long time to say very little. To be brief he could have said that the cattle industry as such in Cuba is virtually dead. Cuban\u2019s don\u2019t get to eat beef unless it has been rustled, and an incompetent regime is obviously incapable of changing or rectifying the mess. Instead he refers to Fidel Castro\u2019s \u201cmonumental contribution to the sciences\u201d whereas as with most of Fidel\u2019s \u2018ideas\u2019 it was a total failure. The graveyard for socialist dreams like that of Dr. Jones in his penultimate paragraph is ever expanding." + }, + { + "title": "Grosse Pointe U-16 baseball team preps for historic visit to Cuba - Detroit Free Press", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Grosse Pointe U-16 baseball team preps for historic visit to Cuba - Detroit Free Press" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMivwFBVV95cUxNajFEQlk2TEFUY3BjUkp4N1QtMnU4OUtnMVdQWF92N3lSaVZqQWVURnBxOVpSLWItaXg5OEtSdVBHUWduQ3liU01SQlMxTmZjZGhUUThPdWZXbUg3ai1RUnVfaVpJWGZkZUl0Y3NoV3dzZ2ZqLWtKdW13Z0V4ZzJfa3FyeXpYb3ViNGMzOHR3SDN6NVlTU3dqY2hxbGNDamNVdmJSckcwWENPN0I3bFBxRnBIT1hjakdoM3JFb2piaw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/world/americas/cuba/article161789678.html", + "id": "CBMivwFBVV95cUxNajFEQlk2TEFUY3BjUkp4N1QtMnU4OUtnMVdQWF92N3lSaVZqQWVURnBxOVpSLWItaXg5OEtSdVBHUWduQ3liU01SQlMxTmZjZGhUUThPdWZXbUg3ai1RUnVfaVpJWGZkZUl0Y3NoV3dzZ2ZqLWtKdW13Z0V4ZzJfa3FyeXpYb3ViNGMzOHR3SDN6NVlTU3dqY2hxbGNDamNVdmJSckcwWENPN0I3bFBxRnBIT1hjakdoM3JFb2piaw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sat, 08 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 8, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 5, + 189, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Grosse Pointe U-16 baseball team preps for historic visit to Cuba  Detroit Free Press", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Grosse Pointe U-16 baseball team preps for historic visit to Cuba  Detroit Free Press" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.freep.com", + "title": "Detroit Free Press" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Convicted of Murder, and Now Swept Up in U.S.-Cuba Shift (Published 2017) - 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Divorced couples are often forced to remain together because of the housing shortage.\n\nThe officials said they hoped the new chain would provide cheaper options for love-making in the city.\n\nCouples making love are a common sight in Havana's parks, on the beach and on the famed Malecon seafront.\n\nA commentator in the Trabajadores newspaper (in Spanish) recalled that the first posadas opened at the end of the 19th Century in central Havana and that most Cubans had vivid memories,\n\n\"Of memorable kisses and of the porter calling to the lovers when their time had finished\"." + }, + { + "title": "Diaz set to continue Cuba\u2019s fine triple jumping tradition - worldathletics.org", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Diaz set to continue Cuba\u2019s fine triple jumping tradition - worldathletics.org" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMijgFBVV95cUxQS3BMS0ExeFpKTUgxY0tIemMyek5ycjMwbnB4RHRjdVEyaWRvZm1GRXFnZlNPMUJXMWJEQzM1LXpNdXR6VlROUFh3V2xjQ253NTM4QVd6Y1lUcGRxQkx5R2xRQmhpQkFVa0U2dmphTFoya3ZXUk5GejlpMU1GMHNVTlZ6S0MxY1I2Rnlnb19n?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://worldathletics.org/news/feature/world-u18-champs-nairobi-2017-jordan-diaz-tri", + "id": "CBMijgFBVV95cUxQS3BMS0ExeFpKTUgxY0tIemMyek5ycjMwbnB4RHRjdVEyaWRvZm1GRXFnZlNPMUJXMWJEQzM1LXpNdXR6VlROUFh3V2xjQ253NTM4QVd6Y1lUcGRxQkx5R2xRQmhpQkFVa0U2dmphTFoya3ZXUk5GejlpMU1GMHNVTlZ6S0MxY1I2Rnlnb19n", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sun, 23 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 23, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 6, + 204, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Diaz set to continue Cuba\u2019s fine triple jumping tradition  worldathletics.org", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Diaz set to continue Cuba\u2019s fine triple jumping tradition  worldathletics.org" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://worldathletics.org", + "title": "worldathletics.org" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Diaz set to continue Cuba\u2019s fine triple jumping tradition | FEATURE | World Athletics\nurl: https://worldathletics.org/news/feature/world-u18-champs-nairobi-2017-jordan-diaz-tri\nhostname: worldathletics.org\ndescription: Cuba has developed such a strong culture of triple jumping that the hop, skip and jump has almost become synonymous with the blue and white stripes of the Caribbean nation\u2019s flag.\nsitename: worldathletics.org\ndate: 2017-07-23\n---\nJordan Diaz in the triple jump at the IAAF World U18 Championships Nairobi 2017 (\u00a9 Getty Images)\n\nCuba has developed such a strong culture of triple jumping that the hop, skip and jump has almost become synonymous with the blue and white stripes of the Caribbean nation\u2019s flag.\n\nFor all their success in the discipline, however, the long list of world-class jumpers they have produced has been unable to eclipse British athlete Jonathan Edwards\u2019s world record.\n\nIt seems inevitable that they will eventually claim the mark, when they find a priceless jewel hidden among their many gems. Enter Jordan Diaz.\n\nThe young phenomenon, born in Havana, achieved such a magnificent feat at the IAAF World U18 Championships Nairobi 2017 that he stunned the entire global athletics fraternity, including himself.\n\nEntering the competition with a personal best of 16.66m, he made a spectacular statement in the final with a third-round leap of 17.00m.\n\nThat distance was all he had really targeted heading into the event, along with the gold medal, but he didn\u2019t stop there.\n\nWith his next attempt he catapulted himself across the pit, sailing out to 17.30m and breaking the three-year-old world U18 best of 17.24m held by compatriot Lazaro Martinez.\n\nThe vibrant crowd at Kasarani Stadium erupted in shock and awe, and he was given the same sort of standing ovation which had been reserved for the top Kenyan athletes competing on home soil.\n\nHis winning margin offers an indication of just how good a jump it was, landing 1.38m farther than his nearest opponent, and he climbed to seventh place on the 2017 senior world list.\n\nWhile his coach, Ricardo Ponce, had believed in his potential to crack the 17-metre mark, Diaz admits he wasn\u2019t sure if he could achieve the feat.\n\n\u201cRicardo kept telling me you can reach 17 metres, and I kept saying \u2018no way, 17 metres is too far\u2019,\u201d Diaz says.\n\n\u201cThen once in Havana I got close (with his previous personal best) and I thought \u2018well, I think I\u2019m capable of doing it now\u2019.\u201d\n\nAfter being scouted by the International School of Physical Education and Sport in Havana when he was just 12 years old, Diaz initially dabbled in various disciplines, winning the national high jump and long jump titles in his age group in his first year at the institution.\n\nIt wasn\u2019t until last year that he channelled his focus into the triple jump event.\n\nTraining with two-time world silver medallist Pedro Pablo Pichardo \u2013 one of only five men to have jumped beyond 18 metres \u2013 the youngster has progressed in leaps and bounds in both literal and figurative terms, and his achievement in Nairobi has made all his hard work worthwhile. It has also given him the confidence that he can go a lot farther than he has already done.\n\n\u201cMy aim was to break my countryman\u2019s world youth best, and now that I\u2019ve reached 17 metres I feel super happy,\u201d he says.\n\n\u201cI never really thought I could do that and it proves nothing is impossible.\u201d\n\n### Inspired by Taylor\n\nDiaz\u2019s first love outside athletics is hardly a surprise, considering his age, and his interest in music is evident by the headphones wrapped around his immaculate hairdo. He says the reggaeton genre is usually playing through the speakers.\n\nBut his real interest lies in the sport at which he excels, and his role model is double Olympic champion Christian Taylor of the United States.\n\nHis sudden rise to fame was evident in Taylor\u2019s reaction to his performance in Nairobi.\n\n\u201cHow cool is this? Congrats Jordan Diaz! I will never forget this name,\u201d Taylor posted on social media, sharing the video of his world best leap.\n\nDiaz admits that show of confidence was almost as pleasing as his incredible new global mark.\n\n\u201cWhen I saw it I was with my teammates and I got a little cocky because I was very happy that Christian Taylor mentioned me,\u201d he says.\n\nWhile Taylor and Pichardo are likely to retain their places at the pinnacle of the discipline for some time, Diaz looks set to carry the next generation.\n\nStudying physical education, the youngster hopes to be a successful coach when he eventually retires from the sport.\n\nFor now, the athletics family around the world will be eager to see just how far he can stretch his long legs, though Diaz is keeping himself grounded and doesn\u2019t want to think too far ahead.\n\n\u201cNobody can tell the future, so we\u2019ll see, but my main objective right now is to be at the World U20 Championships (in Tampere) next year, and who knows what I can jump there.\u201d\n\nThe sky seems to be the limit, and he could ultimately take the men\u2019s triple jump to another level.\n\nAt this very moment, amid all the hype around the lanky prodigy, it\u2019s easy to forget that he is still just a kid, and he really just wants what all teenagers want: to have fun.\n\n\u201cI contacted all my friends and family after the final and they congratulated me,\u201d he says, his serious expression transforming into a mischievous grin.\n\n\u201cThey told me they can\u2019t wait for me to get back so we can have a huge party.\u201d\n\n**Wesley Botton for the IAAF**" + }, + { + "title": "Cuba\u2019s Raul Castro dismisses harsher US tone under Trump - CNBC", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuba\u2019s Raul Castro dismisses harsher US tone under Trump - CNBC" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMilwFBVV95cUxPWGQ4c2NvRmpmWGZJRlgzaFd0Zm9yNHhQUzViTWk2SE8ydkpIaG5QbHk5cU41SW5GZm43U05yTm5DZDZaMFA4amVZZ09ibkpDcEFaMm9Tbm4yOTBLM1hzTjVmRldfZUlzeHZySDU3MUpPZ2hvaFBjOW4zVWdvSi1Mc1BvdnN1VzJqeF9oSVZKNTFZV0F0QndR0gGcAUFVX3lxTE5ZYlBHOXVhOVB4NVY2TUZzRGVZOUhVX0p2Ul9FN2Z5TlVNZUlmVUg4MUNwNXpNVVZRRzlVbGgzLWNVR250SFZ3SU1qV19mYWd6aVlSa1MxQmd6cHdzNlBhVXpRMWQ3dDhPWU9ZU3pIRXg3UGFSN2tFWEo1MDZLSlpyeFEyN2h2RkF4WnBWc1B0RVowelAyV1I2S3hfTw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.cnbc.com/2017/07/15/cubas-raul-castro-dismisses-harsher-us-tone-under-trump.html", + "id": "CBMilwFBVV95cUxPWGQ4c2NvRmpmWGZJRlgzaFd0Zm9yNHhQUzViTWk2SE8ydkpIaG5QbHk5cU41SW5GZm43U05yTm5DZDZaMFA4amVZZ09ibkpDcEFaMm9Tbm4yOTBLM1hzTjVmRldfZUlzeHZySDU3MUpPZ2hvaFBjOW4zVWdvSi1Mc1BvdnN1VzJqeF9oSVZKNTFZV0F0QndR0gGcAUFVX3lxTE5ZYlBHOXVhOVB4NVY2TUZzRGVZOUhVX0p2Ul9FN2Z5TlVNZUlmVUg4MUNwNXpNVVZRRzlVbGgzLWNVR250SFZ3SU1qV19mYWd6aVlSa1MxQmd6cHdzNlBhVXpRMWQ3dDhPWU9ZU3pIRXg3UGFSN2tFWEo1MDZLSlpyeFEyN2h2RkF4WnBWc1B0RVowelAyV1I2S3hfTw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sat, 15 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 15, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 5, + 196, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Cuba\u2019s Raul Castro dismisses harsher US tone under Trump  CNBC", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Cuba\u2019s Raul Castro dismisses harsher US tone under Trump  CNBC" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.cnbc.com", + "title": "CNBC" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "FACT CHECK: Does Cuba Have a Cancer Vaccine That Has Already Cured Thousands? - Snopes", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "FACT CHECK: Does Cuba Have a Cancer Vaccine That Has Already Cured Thousands? - Snopes" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiZEFVX3lxTFBqQmtScElvRUdXTDAxSkVKMmI4OEFTendFS3d5R3BqT09lbnJsbkkxTDhKZUI5alk3T0pOMWhtNEtvZHctMnl0bG82dDI0MktUVWFFYzd6VWpqdXByeGl0S2FLUzA?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/cuba-cancer-vaccine/", + "id": "CBMiZEFVX3lxTFBqQmtScElvRUdXTDAxSkVKMmI4OEFTendFS3d5R3BqT09lbnJsbkkxTDhKZUI5alk3T0pOMWhtNEtvZHctMnl0bG82dDI0MktUVWFFYzd6VWpqdXByeGl0S2FLUzA", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 27 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 27, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 208, + 0 + ], + "summary": "FACT CHECK: Does Cuba Have a Cancer Vaccine That Has Already Cured Thousands?  Snopes", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "FACT CHECK: Does Cuba Have a Cancer Vaccine That Has Already Cured Thousands?  Snopes" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.snopes.com", + "title": "Snopes" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: FACT CHECK: Does Cuba Have a Cancer Vaccine That Has Already Cured Thousands?\nauthor: Alex Kasprak\nurl: https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/cuba-cancer-vaccine/\nhostname: snopes.com\ndescription: While a treatment for lung cancer developed in Cuba has entered clinical trials in the United States, it is not a preventative tool, nor has it \"cured\" thousands of people \u2014 at least, not yet.\nsitename: Snopes.com\ndate: 2017-07-27\ncategories: ['']\ntags: ['Cuba', 'Cancer', 'Health Care', 'Cancer Cures']\n---\nResearchers with Cuba\u2019s Center for Molecular Immunology have developed and approved an immunologic cancer therapy that improves survivability for certain types of cancers in some cases; as of January 2017, the drug has begun clinical trials for the treatment in the United States.\n\nWhile the drug is not a vaccine in the preventative sense, it has improved survivability in some cases; however, claims that it has cured thousands of people conflates the total number of people who have been treated with those who have been \"cured\".\n\nOn 7 July 2017, TheNativePeople.net published a story reporting that Cuba has been evidently sitting on a cancer vaccine that has already cured thousands of people. In the article, which has since been shared thousands of times, the author writes:\n\nThere are many scientists who have dedicated their life in the search for the cure, and there are many promising natural alternatives that can replace chemotherapy and radiation in the future.\n\nThe latest example is a research from Cuba, where a small group of scientists with a limited budget have been able to develop a vaccine against cancer that has cured more than 4000 people! The scientific community is impressed by the Cuban discovery, and many doctors claim that the cure for cancer has finally been found!\n\nThe vaccine has produced incredible results even in the more advanced stages of cancer. It finally saw the light of day after 16 years of intense research, and doesn't have any adverse side-effects.\n\n\nThe treatment this story highlights does indeed exist in Cuba. It's a therapy (named CIMAvax) used to treat lung cancer, and which has begun being used in clinical trials in the United States. The treatment, contrary to the suggestion of the headline, is not meant to *prevent* the future occurrence of disease like a traditional vaccine. Vaccine, in this case, refers to the fact that CIMAvax provokes an immune response \u2014 as with a vaccine \u2014 which then signals a person's own immune system to attack the cancer's ability to grow (as opposed to inoculating against future outbreaks). As described in a November 2016 feature in *The Atlantic:*\n\n[Cuban researchers used an] unusually powerful meningitis protein and fused it to part of another protein called epidermal growth factor, or EGF. EGF is important for controlling cancer because, as its name implies, EGF makes cells grow, and cancer is essentially cells growing out of control.\n\nWhen injected, this fused hybrid protein kicks a patient's immune system into high gear (thanks to the meningitis) and targets cancer cells (thanks to the EGF). That's how CIMAvax is supposed to work. It's called a vaccine because like other vaccines, it stimulates the immune system, but it is actually used to treat rather than prevent lung cancer.\n\n\nThe drug, which was originally developed by the Cuban Ministry of Public Health in the 1990s, has undergone several animal and human clinical trials in Cuba, and is currently licensed there for stage IIIB/IV non-small-cell lung cancer. The most recent Cuban trial, a phase III study of 405 individuals with this kind of lung cancer, concluded:\n\nPatients receiving at least 4 doses of the vaccine [...] had a significant advantage in overall survival. Patients with high [concentrations of EGF in their system] had the largest benefit and [median survival time] after vaccination was 14.66 months.\n\n\nWhile these results are promising, claims that \"thousands\" have been \"cured\" of cancer as a result of this drug are unsupported by published research, and appear to stem from reports that 5000 people have been *treated* with the drug since 2011. Indeed, improvements to survival were generally on the order of months, and around 20 percent of cases from these clinical trials showed no improvement compared to control groups.\n\nDue to regulations stemming from the United States embargo on Cuban goods, the drug has been unexplored in the United States until fairly recently. In late 2016, the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York received approval to embark on a collaboration with Cuban researchers to bring CIMAvax clinical trials to the U.S., capping a lengthy process to get approval from the Obama Administration that began in 2011. In addition to Cuba, CIMAvax has been used in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, Paraguay, and Peru.\n\nMichael Caligiuri of the American Association for Cancer Research told PBS Newshour that success in Cuba does not necessarily mean the drug will be met with similar success in the United States:\n\nWhenever there's an early evidence of efficacy in a single population, a single institution study, the chance that it will be replicated inter-institutionally is real, but not a given.\n\n\nThe U.S. trials began in January 2017, and researchers are currently recruiting participants. If the drug's efficacy is demonstrated by the standards of the U.S. Food and Drug administration, Roswell Park Cancer Institute scientist Kevin Lee says it could potentially change the way in which doctors approach cancer treatment by targeting not the cancer itself, but by changing a body's ability to contain a cancer that it was previously unable to combat:\n\nThere is an idea that's developing of converting cancer into a chronic disease. We give you a pill that you take every day, and it allows you to live a perfectly normal life.\n\n\nWhile the drug is real and has shown promise against a specific kind of lung cancer, claims that it is a blanket \"cure\" for all of cancer overstate both the scope of the drug and the nature of its clinical success. Therefore, we rate that claim that Cuban researchers already have a cancer vaccine that has cured thousands of people as a mixture." + }, + { + "title": "A Child's Path From Cuba (And A Body Cast) To A Life In Books - WLRN", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "A Child's Path From Cuba (And A Body Cast) To A Life In Books - WLRN" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMinwFBVV95cUxQenRMUXpFMGZBVm81ZWFxSzBiV1F1MzB2bWpOZUVldTQ5QWJEN201aUxuRWlXck84cl9KMFlpNllVSFQ2cHdPMDM2M01TV01IZVM5UlFoRW0yMlp3bDJYVWhLQko3REJmTmIzakVwSWhlLUJLeURGUERtV3BPaWVrbjhkWGZWaVZteXA2WU5xSWxSSmktQ1FWZU9ENWNfamM?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.wlrn.org/culture/2017-07-24/a-childs-path-from-cuba-and-a-body-cast-to-a-life-in-books", + "id": "CBMinwFBVV95cUxQenRMUXpFMGZBVm81ZWFxSzBiV1F1MzB2bWpOZUVldTQ5QWJEN201aUxuRWlXck84cl9KMFlpNllVSFQ2cHdPMDM2M01TV01IZVM5UlFoRW0yMlp3bDJYVWhLQko3REJmTmIzakVwSWhlLUJLeURGUERtV3BPaWVrbjhkWGZWaVZteXA2WU5xSWxSSmktQ1FWZU9ENWNfamM", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 24 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 24, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 205, + 0 + ], + "summary": "A Child's Path From Cuba (And A Body Cast) To A Life In Books  WLRN", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "A Child's Path From Cuba (And A Body Cast) To A Life In Books  WLRN" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.wlrn.org", + "title": "WLRN" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Military Service in Cuba: Not for Women or Men - Havana Times", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Military Service in Cuba: Not for Women or Men - Havana Times" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMilwFBVV95cUxNQzBmVDBvTmNEVVFoX1hodUtWemM2ZkIwN2tVZkdZMTlyN1dmdUpMbnBKUGo4TkZmLUNYclhzRHRLejZ5UGFjY3F6VlprSVNJYnNVT01LTkJBV05kTlFyekVjUGo0bC1uLXdTSnRNUS1ReDlONnZMV0V6TnhDNHlxUGh1QlQ1VFpaOWdOMzU0bjFiZEpzR2t3?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMilwFBVV95cUxNQzBmVDBvTmNEVVFoX1hodUtWemM2ZkIwN2tVZkdZMTlyN1dmdUpMbnBKUGo4TkZmLUNYclhzRHRLejZ5UGFjY3F6VlprSVNJYnNVT01LTkJBV05kTlFyekVjUGo0bC1uLXdTSnRNUS1ReDlONnZMV0V6TnhDNHlxUGh1QlQ1VFpaOWdOMzU0bjFiZEpzR2t3?oc=5", + "id": "CBMilwFBVV95cUxNQzBmVDBvTmNEVVFoX1hodUtWemM2ZkIwN2tVZkdZMTlyN1dmdUpMbnBKUGo4TkZmLUNYclhzRHRLejZ5UGFjY3F6VlprSVNJYnNVT01LTkJBV05kTlFyekVjUGo0bC1uLXdTSnRNUS1ReDlONnZMV0V6TnhDNHlxUGh1QlQ1VFpaOWdOMzU0bjFiZEpzR2t3", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Fri, 21 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 21, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 4, + 202, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Military Service in Cuba: Not for Women or Men  Havana Times", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Military Service in Cuba: Not for Women or Men  Havana Times" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://havanatimes.org", + "title": "Havana Times" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "" + }, + { + "title": "My Visit With One of the Forgotten Prisoners of Guant\u00e1namo - 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Marine News Magazine", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Race Boat To Attempt US-Cuba Speed Record - Marine News Magazine" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMia0FVX3lxTE1EcHNVS1lrY0hQUzAwc2V5a19Fd3RUOV9fU3dpbUlReV9WYklya0V0MEU1Q0cyNHhpcG1CLTNiZVN6U2RvUERxN1ZWcTA2dm5yT3dKM3pxZDAtR2I4YkpMMGR5TnBqVGJic1Rz?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.marinelink.com/news/attempt-uscuba-record427532", + "id": "CBMia0FVX3lxTE1EcHNVS1lrY0hQUzAwc2V5a19Fd3RUOV9fU3dpbUlReV9WYklya0V0MEU1Q0cyNHhpcG1CLTNiZVN6U2RvUERxN1ZWcTA2dm5yT3dKM3pxZDAtR2I4YkpMMGR5TnBqVGJic1Rz", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Wed, 19 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 19, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 2, + 200, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Race Boat To Attempt US-Cuba Speed Record  Marine News Magazine", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Race Boat To Attempt US-Cuba Speed Record  Marine News Magazine" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.marinelink.com", + "title": "Marine News Magazine" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Race Boat to Attempt US-Cuba Speed Record\nauthor: Eric Haun\nurl: https://www.marinelink.com/news/attempt-uscuba-record427532\nhostname: marinelink.com\ndescription: An upcoming world speed record attempt by Nigel Hook and the crew of SilverHook will be a two-for-one as they set out to achieve\u2026\nsitename: MarineLink\ndate: 2017-07-19\n---\nAn upcoming world speed record attempt by Nigel Hook and the crew of SilverHook will be a two-for-one as they set out to achieve the fastest crossing from the U.S. to Cuba, and then back.\n\n\nCaptain Hook has chosen August 17 to try to set two speed records in what is considered the most technically-advanced offshore monohull race boat in the world. The first objective is a one-way speed record from a point just off the Florida Keys to Havana.\n\n\nIf that record is established, then part two will be an equally-fast or faster return trip and a two-way record. Should SilverHook fail to break the one-way record and the mechanical/technical problems are fixable in the water then the return trip record attempt will still be mounted.\n\n\nOn the morning of August 17, the Lucas Oil Speed Record attempt will begin at 6:30 a.m. EDT in Mallory Square, Key West. The timer starting the record attempt will be triggered just south of Sunset Key and will stop when SilverHook reaches the channel marker in front of El Morro Castle in Havana (Castillo de los Tres Reyes Magos del Morro). Following a brief celebration hosted by the Hemingway International Yacht Club, the return leg will be straight back to Key West.\n\n\nThe sanctioned record of 6 hours was set in 1922 by a boat piloted by motor racing Hall of Fame member Gar Wood. Wood was an American inventor, entrepreneur, motor boat builder and racer who held the world water speed record on several occasions. He was the first man to travel over 100 miles per hour on water.\n\n\nIn 2015 the ocean racer Apache set an unsanctioned time of 1 hour and 51 minutes.\n\n\nThis U.S.-Cuba record attempt is a tremendous challenge for the SilverHook, which given the expected wave conditions should exceed 125mph. The boat is 48 feet long, weighs more than 13,000 pounds powered by two Mercury Racing engines producing a combined 3,100 horsepower and a top speed of nearly 168 miles per hour in calm conditions. The powerboat telemetry has been radically updated from its normal Superboat unlimited configuration.\n\n\nSilverHook's course will take it 102 miles across the Florida current that flows between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. The current is at its strongest in July and August and that resistance will force SilverHook to travel about 110 miles on its record attempt.\n\n\nThe Florida current also is a treacherous body of water that has been the graveyard of many ships through the ages. Depending on wave height, visibility can be poor at high speeds, with the monohull diving down and through waves rather than skipping over the surface. Waves can run from 3 to 30 feet high and constant vigilance by the helicopter spotters is needed to avoid other ships or floating debris such as tree trunks and oil barrels.\n\n\nSilverHook's main sponsors include Lucas Oil, IBM Watson IoT, Globecomm, Ingram Micro and Inmarsat. This attempt will be conducted under the sanction of the UIM (Union International Motonautique), the APBA (American Power Boat Association), Powerboat P1-USA and the Hemingway International Yacht Club in Cuba.\n\n\nSilverHook is owned and captained by transplanted Englishman Nigel Hook, who will be controlling the throttles and telemetry on the record attempt. Hook is a 30-year veteran of international powerboat racing and has won three World Championships, set three World Speed Records and earned membership in the APBA Hall of Champions. He currently races the 77 Lucas Oil SilverHook 48GP in the Superboat International unlimited class. His co-pilot and driver is fellow APBA inductee and powerboat veteran Jay Johnson." + }, + { + "title": "Mark Cuban sees a model for fixing health care \u2014 and he didn\u2019t find it in the United States - CNBC", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Mark Cuban sees a model for fixing health care \u2014 and he didn\u2019t find it in the United States - CNBC" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMixAFBVV95cUxNUl94bFhTZFAwbGdXQTZ6cjBuQXZIVWpqTk5VNVpUcFhiam4wZEhQYTJkVFZFeHREclE5clFJenAwZ0hxOFFOdGpoXzBLa0FaZE5kTzY3UmloWUM3eUVMaXNiNVNMWVdzVEhpenJEdFBBSEFSLWdNSEo2eVdRejhxRzhsSkxiREg4dVY4S3N0ZjV5ZDloT2RrYmlwZGp4LTJfaFdPT3RJTkJIS1BaTFZEcGxCMEFaNDI3ZmxRYzQ1bVB1cE1t?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMixAFBVV95cUxNUl94bFhTZFAwbGdXQTZ6cjBuQXZIVWpqTk5VNVpUcFhiam4wZEhQYTJkVFZFeHREclE5clFJenAwZ0hxOFFOdGpoXzBLa0FaZE5kTzY3UmloWUM3eUVMaXNiNVNMWVdzVEhpenJEdFBBSEFSLWdNSEo2eVdRejhxRzhsSkxiREg4dVY4S3N0ZjV5ZDloT2RrYmlwZGp4LTJfaFdPT3RJTkJIS1BaTFZEcGxCMEFaNDI3ZmxRYzQ1bVB1cE1t?oc=5", + "id": "CBMixAFBVV95cUxNUl94bFhTZFAwbGdXQTZ6cjBuQXZIVWpqTk5VNVpUcFhiam4wZEhQYTJkVFZFeHREclE5clFJenAwZ0hxOFFOdGpoXzBLa0FaZE5kTzY3UmloWUM3eUVMaXNiNVNMWVdzVEhpenJEdFBBSEFSLWdNSEo2eVdRejhxRzhsSkxiREg4dVY4S3N0ZjV5ZDloT2RrYmlwZGp4LTJfaFdPT3RJTkJIS1BaTFZEcGxCMEFaNDI3ZmxRYzQ1bVB1cE1t", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Mon, 31 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 31, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 0, + 212, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Mark Cuban sees a model for fixing health care \u2014 and he didn\u2019t find it in the United States  CNBC", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Mark Cuban sees a model for fixing health care \u2014 and he didn\u2019t find it in the United States  CNBC" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.cnbc.com", + "title": "CNBC" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "" + }, + { + "title": "Aroldis Chapman: \u201cI have no problem with playing for Cuba\u201d - 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Approximately 40 Soldiers from the 152nd Military Police Company will perform the internal security and detainee operations mission at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. (Photo by Army Sgt. William Frye).\nsitename: DVIDS\ndate: 2026-03-23\ntags: ['Alabama National Guard', '152nd Military Police Company', '152nd MP', 'Army Decatur', '152nd MPCo Deployment 07222017', 'National Guard', 'Guantanamo Bay', 'Alabama']\n---\nSoldiers act as color guard at the deployment ceremony for the 152nd Military Police Company at Austin High School in Decatur, Alabama, on July 22, 2017. Approximately 40 Soldiers from the 152nd Military Police Company will perform the internal security and detainee operations mission at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. (Photo by Army Sgt. William Frye).\n\n| Date Taken: | 07.22.2017 |\n| Date Posted: | 07.22.2017 20:09 |\n| Photo ID: | 3599369 |\n| VIRIN: | 170722-A-OK577-464 |\n| Resolution: | 5472x3648 |\n| Size: | 13.39 MB |\n| Location: | DECATUR, ALABAMA, US |\n\n| Web Views: | 291 |\n| Downloads: | 6 |\n\nThis work, Alabama National Guard 152nd Military Police Company deploys to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. [Image 6 of 6], by SFC William Frye, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright." + }, + { + "title": "With materials scarce, Cuban designers master recycling chic - Reuters", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "With materials scarce, Cuban designers master recycling chic - Reuters" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMisgFBVV95cUxQZ0dzNmtsTWFCejhVYlRId3JabVRFUVBWNHpyallMY1RxcVpFY3BhMEdqRVRCUVN2MHlBQVJLS0Nzc0dCVXo1ZGNYbzlzNUNya1FSY1ZfWXNET1BNdmQwcVBnX3N2Nm1rZ0U1Y1J6bmdFWFdtcjlYdlZsYWtqZnVZaV9pUlk0OHdSZXRhQVViX0pYbTNCNGFLYThhQ3ZaUktQT0RydHNHbFRQYVpUNk5CVW5R?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "http://cubajournal.co/cruising-to-cuba-emerges-as-a-major-gateway-to-a-new-destination/", + "id": "CBMisgFBVV95cUxQZ0dzNmtsTWFCejhVYlRId3JabVRFUVBWNHpyallMY1RxcVpFY3BhMEdqRVRCUVN2MHlBQVJLS0Nzc0dCVXo1ZGNYbzlzNUNya1FSY1ZfWXNET1BNdmQwcVBnX3N2Nm1rZ0U1Y1J6bmdFWFdtcjlYdlZsYWtqZnVZaV9pUlk0OHdSZXRhQVViX0pYbTNCNGFLYThhQ3ZaUktQT0RydHNHbFRQYVpUNk5CVW5R", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Thu, 13 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 13, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 3, + 194, + 0 + ], + "summary": "With materials scarce, Cuban designers master recycling chic  Reuters", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "With materials scarce, Cuban designers master recycling chic  Reuters" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.reuters.com", + "title": "Reuters" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 403, + "response": "Error: HTTP 403" + }, + { + "title": "Cuban-studies institute at center of controversy between outgoing director, UM - 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Havana Times", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Medicine Shortage Persists in Cuba - Havana Times" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMickFVX3lxTE5HYU1wYjh1c1RiQURLczM0YkhjUVBkUW54bWU2UWJEYXJ3dVk4RkwzRm04d1piY1F0QkcySHNGUXI0NFZJcWJEcVdLWlJDa2VlZmtIWWJxTnE3cFphR2pXQmY2ZGxpOW5JdW1mVmFUNjVXZw?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/19949153/mark-cuban-dallas-mavericks-not-rebuilding-eastern-conference", + "id": "CBMickFVX3lxTE5HYU1wYjh1c1RiQURLczM0YkhjUVBkUW54bWU2UWJEYXJ3dVk4RkwzRm04d1piY1F0QkcySHNGUXI0NFZJcWJEcVdLWlJDa2VlZmtIWWJxTnE3cFphR2pXQmY2ZGxpOW5JdW1mVmFUNjVXZw", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Tue, 11 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 11, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 1, + 192, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Medicine Shortage Persists in Cuba  Havana Times", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Medicine Shortage Persists in Cuba  Havana Times" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://havanatimes.org", + "title": "Havana Times" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Mark Cuban jokes of coveting move to Eastern Conference\nauthor: Tim MacMahon\nurl: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/19949153/mark-cuban-dallas-mavericks-not-rebuilding-eastern-conference\nhostname: espn.com\ndescription: Mark Cuban says Dallas would be approaching its future in a \"completely different\" manner if it were in the Eastern Conference.\nsitename: ESPN\ndate: 2017-07-10\n---\nLAS VEGAS -- Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban cited the dominance of the Golden State Warriors and depth of the Western Conference as reasons for the direction of his franchise.\n\n\"We're rebuilding. Right?\" Cuban said during the ESPN broadcast of the Mavs' 88-77 win Sunday over the Phoenix Suns in the Las Vegas Summer League. \"There's no question about it. If we were in the East, we would not be rebuilding. We'd be handling things completely different. I think I'm going to kidnap [commissioner] Adam Silver and not let him out until he moves us to the Eastern Conference.\n\n\"Given where we are, given where the Warriors are and what's happening in the Western Conference, it kind of sealed what we have to do.\"\n\nThe Warriors have won two of the past three NBA championships. They are three-time defending Western Conference champions, with a regular-season record of 207-39 (.841) during that span.\n\nDallas is coming off a 33-49 season, the franchise's first losing campaign since 1999-2000, when Cuban purchased the team midseason. The Mavs missed the playoffs for only the second time in the past 17 seasons and used its lottery pick to select point guard Dennis Smith Jr., whom coach Rick Carlisle immediately projected to be the starter.\n\nThe Mavs had dual goals last summer: attempt to acquire players who can be part of the franchise's foundation after Dirk Nowitzki's eventual retirement, but try to build a team that gives Nowitzki a chance to compete in the playoffs during his final seasons. A slow start, which occurred in part due to an Achilles tendon injury that sidelined Nowitzki for most of the first two months of the season, contributed to the Mavs' midseason decision to emphasize the youth movement.\n\nDallas parted with two stopgap veterans at the trade deadline, waiving point guard Deron Williams and dumping center Andrew Bogut in a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers that brought center Nerlens Noel to Dallas.\n\nThe Mavs have been mostly spectators during this free-agency period, aside from re-signing the 39-year-old Nowitzki to a two-year, $10 million deal and acquiring Josh McRoberts in a salary dump from the Miami Heat. They intend to re-sign Noel, a restricted free agent who hopes to drive up his price by receiving an offer sheet from another team.\n\nThe Mavs consider 25-year-old Harrison Barnes, 23-year-old Noel and 19-year-old Smith three potential cornerstones as they begin their rebuilding process." + }, + { + "title": "Mark Cuban jokes of coveting move to Eastern Conference - ESPN", + "title_detail": { + "type": "text/plain", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Mark Cuban jokes of coveting move to Eastern Conference - ESPN" + }, + "links": [ + { + "rel": "alternate", + "type": "text/html", + "href": "https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiqgFBVV95cUxONVlqTDVob212Q2xKRl9zUzJxNEJzMXRIRVpDeE96VjdYZjM4ZjJxOHlSWWE3WG5vekdHOE12NVhzMUtnUmRyWEJTaGNPVFY3Q05VSnk3YUxpdHQ1QVU2eTB0YUVnTVVJbDg2T2liZDR5bjFRdEc5bmxMZi1oZ2Q3RU9yc1FuTGwzMWE2S3NlSzluZGpVcWRrNjd3bEdWQVlHNmdTY2h3S2UtQQ?oc=5" + } + ], + "link": "https://havanatimes.org/news/medicine-shortage-persists-in-cuba/", + "id": "CBMiqgFBVV95cUxONVlqTDVob212Q2xKRl9zUzJxNEJzMXRIRVpDeE96VjdYZjM4ZjJxOHlSWWE3WG5vekdHOE12NVhzMUtnUmRyWEJTaGNPVFY3Q05VSnk3YUxpdHQ1QVU2eTB0YUVnTVVJbDg2T2liZDR5bjFRdEc5bmxMZi1oZ2Q3RU9yc1FuTGwzMWE2S3NlSzluZGpVcWRrNjd3bEdWQVlHNmdTY2h3S2UtQQ", + "guidislink": false, + "published": "Sun, 09 Jul 2017 07:00:00 GMT", + "published_parsed": [ + 2017, + 7, + 9, + 7, + 0, + 0, + 6, + 190, + 0 + ], + "summary": "Mark Cuban jokes of coveting move to Eastern Conference  ESPN", + "summary_detail": { + "type": "text/html", + "language": null, + "base": "", + "value": "Mark Cuban jokes of coveting move to Eastern Conference  ESPN" + }, + "source": { + "href": "https://www.espn.com", + "title": "ESPN" + }, + "sub_articles": [], + "status_code": 200, + "response": "---\ntitle: Medicine Shortage Persists in Cuba - Havana Times\nauthor: Circles Robinson\nurl: https://havanatimes.org/news/medicine-shortage-persists-in-cuba/\nhostname: havanatimes.org\ndescription: Like an evil that threatens to go endemic, medicine shortages continue to deliver a blow to the Cuban people\u2019s quality of life. Even there are many other reasons for the decline, (food, transport, extremely low salaries, etc.), this has fast become one of the most sensitive issues.\nsitename: Havana Times\ndate: 2017-07-11\ncategories: ['News']\n---\n# Medicine Shortage Persists in Cuba\n\n**By Osmel Ramirez Alvarez**\n\nHAVANA TIMES \u2014 Like an evil that threatens to go endemic, medicine shortages continue to deliver a blow to the Cuban people\u2019s quality of life. Even there are many other reasons for the decline, (food, transport, extremely low salaries, etc.), this has fast become one of the most sensitive issues.\n\nIn a previous article published here on Havana Times on May 3rd under the heading Medicine Shortages in Cuba are becoming more Severe, I dealt with the issue, but the situation today is only getting worse.\n\nBack then, around 100 medicines were in shortage, while now \u201cwe have had over 300 missing, at times; although normally we are only missing 100 or more,\u201d a saleslady at a pharmacy responded when as a customer I asked her the question.\n\nPharmacies remain empty for at least five days of the week. It\u2019s only on Fridays, and sometimes on Saturdays, that there are some of the most sought-after medicines on sale. With large lines, of course.\n\nThis happens because they are distributed on Fridays, although not all of the medicines expected arrive. \u201cSome take over a month to return to the shelves and others have been lost completely, like cimetidine,\u201d the pharmacist concluded.\n\nIt\u2019s a very sad scene to see, old people lining up since Thursday night so they can get their blood pressure or diabetes pills.\n\n\u201cI came to the pharmacy and have been in line since 8 PM last night. And I was still in 6th place. The problem is that I haven\u2019t had the medicine I take for ten days now and I\u2019m unbalanced. The delivery truck has just come, past 2 p.m. today, Friday. Luckily, my medicine came in, enalapril, because many people had to go home after waiting so long without getting theirs because they never arrived. For example, captopril, which is also for blood pressure,\u201d Santiago commented, a man over 60 years old.\n\nThe worst thing about all of this, is that sometimes the medicine prescribed to you doesn\u2019t arrive and you can\u2019t buy another one, because of bureaucracy. To do so involves considerable time consuming paperwork between the doctor\u2019s office and the polyclinic to substitute the missing medicines. The same thing happens with medical prescriptions. It\u2019s impossible to get a hold of a product which is only on sale for two hours, when there is a small glitch.\n\nAnd the end of this crisis doesn\u2019t seem to be on the horizon. People are sick at home, on the street and even at work. I\u2019m sure it not only affects people\u2019s health and quality of life, but their productivity at work too, lethal for the government\u2019s ambitious and very questionable development targets.\n\nNot Raul Castro, nor his Ministers, nor the Legislators, nor government media, or the news have said a single word about this subject. It\u2019s as if there wasn\u2019t any problem. With such silence, they are talking even less about solutions.\n\nPeople are prosecuted and jailed all the time in the US for sending prescription drugs out of country. People from Cuba or any other country cannot get a prescription filled in the USA unless it\u2019s from a recognized AMERICAN physician. You have a very limited understanding. Personally, I\u2019m an internationalist and I\u2019m all for getting Cuban prescriptions filled in any country, including the US, but we must face the realities.\n\nThe only thing that\u2019s simple here CErmle is that you can\u2019t even read the link that Bob Michaels posted. Stop embarrassing yourself.\n\n\u201c\u2026 The restrictions are enforced by the U.S. Government\u2026\u201d\n\nThere are none. Read the regulations yourself. The link is even posted in this thread! Stop being so blind.\n\nCompletely legal. Get over yourself.\n\nAbsolute bunkum. Do tell everybody CErmle the number of Canadians who went to Cuba in 2016 seeking medical services. Remember that in Cuba they have to pay, whereas at home in Canada their medical services are provided without direct payment. How many Americans (you say \u201cvast numbers\u201d) went to Cuba for medical services?\n\nBull+#i& CErmle is your speciality you actually never give any factual information to support your claims. Does that reflect lack of knowledge or simple-minded ignorance? So come on, provide some figures!\n\nDan: Understand to sell more cigars in the US, Cuba would have to sell less elsewhere as the production of fine cigars is limited by their production of quality tobacco. Hence, zero impact to Cuba.\n\nThe requirement for ships docking in Cuba not to dock in the US for 6 months went away in 2016. Have you seen the number of ships in Havana harbor that came direct from Miami?\n\nMaking statements requires that one be more current with their facts.\n\nThis has proven to be another classic example of someone making much noise about the embargo yet failing to come up with any meaningful current effect on Cuba once challenged.\n\nNick is right. You are wrong. Simple as that.\n\nThere may not be any restrictions by the Cuban government. The restrictions are enforced by the U.S. Government.\n\nThat is NOT legal in any sense of the word. Sounds like a scam.\n\nThe number of Canadian is huge, not to mention the vast numbers of Americans. It\u2019s a great system, a wonderful country. The People of Cuba and their government must be recognized for their contribution to a better world for all,\n\nGracias! Enjoy!\n\nCanadians CErmle have sound medical, dental, optical and pharmacy services available in their own country. How \u201cmany Canadians\u201d can you name who go to Cuba for medical services?\n\nIf on the other hand you had spoken of Americans and the use of the commercial services provided for foreigners only at the Clinica Cira Garcia in Havana I would agree with you. A breast augmentation there costs only $1,248 compared with over $6,000 in the US. The facilities of the clinic are far superior to those available to Cubans.\n\nIn talking of foreigners going to Cuba for medical services, two of the outstanding cases are Maradona who went there to get dried out, and Hugo Chavez, who was operated on twice in Cuba for his cancer. (The surgeon who performed the operations is sometimes a guest in our home).\n\nI do not fail to recognize medical services in Cuba. I use them and have written about them. So what is your point?\n\nNo Bob, you try again to make your rebuttal convincing. So a relative handful of tourist carried cigars creates the same revenue for the Cuban government as it would have if it could export cigars to the US ?? Be reasonable. And you are wrong about the ships as well.\n\nThanks for the advice. In the event of a nuclear winter where all vegetation has been destroyed except for brussel sprouts, I\u2019ll be sure to take your suggestions inferiores advisement.\n\nOK, if you must know\u2026.A French medical doctor who is involved with Medicos San Frontieres and also has admitting rights in a NYC hospital writes the prescriptions. He is sympathetic to the plight of Cubans having worked with Cuban doctors on mission in \u00c1frica. As a result, Cubans doctors send him their prescriptions and he finds Americans who are willing and able to pay to fill them. He visits his \u201cpatients\u201d in Cuba several times a year. So you see, all perfectly legal.\n\nHow did you guess? Just imagine Moses the huge sums that the lobby provides to enable me to promote those sprouts!\n\nThat is the basis of my concern about Rich Haney\u2019s decision to leave these pages. Although we won\u2019t miss his historic descriptions of the evils of Batista dictatorship and admiration of Castro dictatorship, his departure reduces the size of my sample.\n\nWhen preparing those sprouts, always cut a little cross in the base of each and steam them for about 20 minutes!\n\nPerhaps you should re-read my posting. You can\u2019t dismiss the truth so easily. NO US based pharmacist is legally filling foreign prescriptions and sending them to other countries. IF caught they will be prosecuted for sure. You cannot dismiss the truth that easily.\n\nYOu fail to recognize that many Canadians and others go to Cuba for medical treatment, for dental work, glasses, and medication. There is no problem.\n\nSomewhat unnecessary friction in your comment but hey-ho\u2026\u2026\u2026.\n\nBob Michaels gave a citation from the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act \u2013 passed by US Congress in October 2000.\n\nThis Act reformed certain aspects of the embargo (including that relating to medicine).\n\nIt\u2019s totally up to you whether you check your facts or if you prefer not to.\n\nI\u2019m easy either way.\n\nIt\u2019s also totally up to you if you wish respond to my polite post with your slightly angry sounding comment. Have to say that I\u2019m easy either way about that too.\n\nGood Cheer from Planet Earth.\n\nYou are obviously being paid by the brussels sprouts lobby to spread pro-brussels sprouts propaganda.\n\n\u201c\u2026 This is my understanding. But do please check and get back to me if you find my understanding to be incorrect\u2026\u201d\n\nI don\u2019t have to check on anything. I already told you that you are incorrect. I see that elsewhere in this thread Bob Michaels even gave you the exact citation regarding the exclusion of medicines from the embargo.\n\nIt\u2019s not anyone\u2019s job to educate you further. Educate yourself.\n\nCheers from Havana.\n\nAt least Moses generously gives you credit for gossip CErmle. With regard to prescriptions, my wife having obtained her prescription for spectacles in Cuba, obtained them from a Canadian Optician. So where is the problem? Adding up CErmle is fairly simple, 2 + 2 = 4.\n\nOh Moses, you are missing out on a culinary delight, but maybe the brussel sprouts you tried had not been exposed to frost \u2013 that is critical to give them full flavour. In the UK, a high percantage of the brussel sprouts are grown in the County of Bedfordshire. It used to be possible to detect the pickers by their red hands from picking frozen sprouts. What has this got to do with Cuba? Well when introduced my Cuban wife absolutely loved brussel sprouts!\n\nI hope you understand that Nick and CErmle will declare my comment to be propaganda. As Rich Haney is leaving us we will never know what he thinks.\n\nDan, do you realize that everything you mention has no impact on Cuba? Only, potentially on you.\n\nCuba exports all the fine cigars it can make from the limited amount of high quality tobacco they can grow. Yes, you may have to go farther than the corner store if you insist on Partagas, but they are available for anyone in the US that has some imagination.\n\nCuba exports very little sugar because their production costs are so high. That is why they closed down half of their sugar mills. I believe Cuba is now a net importer of sugar.\n\nIf you can\u2019t go to Cuba, as over half a million US residents do, you simply have no imagination.\n\nForeign flagged ships can now travel direct from the US to Cuba.\n\nOK, try again with some impacts the embargo is having on Cuba.\n\n\u2026.did someone mention a negative tanto about the Castro regime? Of course there are a handful of positive things one can say about a repressive and brutal Castro dictatorship. By how often can we talk about cigars, rum, jazz and boxing?\n\nWould you prefer a blog where everyone agreed with your opinion 100% of the time? 50%? To be sure, your comment is McCarthyish. That is too way that because you and I disagree about the Castros, as McCarthy disagreed with the progressives of that time, you want to criticize the venue that gives space to our disagreement. By the way, subscription?\n\nReal life hatred of dictatorships, without a doubt. Bitterness about standing by helpless watching my family in Guant\u00e1namo suffer, again no doubt. But propaganda? Depends. I also hate brussels sprouts. If I constantly commented about my opinion of brussel sprouts, is that propaganda or just my opinion?\n\nQue chismoso! (What a gossiper)\n\nCErmle, as usual you criticize others but contribute nothing.\n\nSo here is the challenge!\n\nif I am incorrect in suggesting in response to Dan Makgow Smith\u2019s comment about \u201cthe new blood\u201d, that on the government side that is the combination of Diaz-Canel, Bruno Rodriguez and Marino Murillo and on the Raul Castro family side General Alejandro Castro Espin and General Luis Alberto Rodriguez Callejas (responsible for importations) then do please say who is?\n\nIf you are unable to do so, you will confirm that you don\u2019t actually have any knowledge about Cuba at all!\n\nTypical Marx/Leninist mouthpiece.\n\nDan Makgow Smith in his contribution was responding to my comment that the US embargo does not prevent the importation of medical supplies. When I am at home in Cuba, I use the medical system, in my book I devoted a whole chapter to \u2018Medical Services\u2019. Unlike you, I do know what I am talking about.\n\nStill not working. Give me the title of the article and maybe I can get the link.\n\nThe complete link is \u201cwww.medicc.org/resources/embargo/Chapter%20Three.pdf\u201d\n\nIf the USA has recently permitted itself to purchase medical products from Cuba then that is indeed good news. Potentially very good news for US sufferers of lung cancer. If tests prove positive for a lung cancer drug developed in Cuba, it would be outrageous if the rest of the world were to be able to use this drug but not US sufferers of that specific condition.\n\nI most certainly would not like to be placed in any \u2018binary group\u2019 as you put it.\n\nI have clearly stated that I do not see the embargo as being the cause of all Cuba\u2019s faults. This is the Cuban Government\u2019s traditional get out clause. They can blame everything on the embargo. I do not see things in that way. In my opinion the current government in Cuba is at fault on many levels.\n\nHowever I would also suggest that it is incorrect to state that the embargo has had or currently has no ill effect whatsoever.\n\nSpecifically regarding medical supplies:\n\nIt is my understanding that Cuba cannot import medicine from the USA in the same way that say Canada or Mexico can. Medical products have to be either paid for in advance or bought on credit from a third country.\n\nAnd you also may note the opinion of independent bodies I have mentioned regarding the effect of this aspect of the embargo (Amnesty Int etc\u2026).\n\nI refer you to Dan\u2019s comments below regarding other aspects of the embargo.\n\nIf the embargo has no ill effects on Cuba whatsoever, then what is the point?\n\nWhy not scrap it?\n\nApart from anything else, why not scrap the Cuban Government\u2019s traditional excuse?\n\nWhat remains of the embargo has been tightened very recently by the current incumbent of the White House to much fanfare in Miami.\n\nSurely this is due to FLA Electoral College votes?\n\nDon\u2019t you think Bob, that President Obama was correct in trying to turn the page?\n\nAre you saying that you regard the embargo as entirely symbolic?\n\nNo significant impact of the embargo left ? I must have missed the Partagas\u2019 at the corner store, along with the Domino sugar from Cuba, along with my neighbor flying to Cuba for his vacation, along with foreign flagged ships sailing directly from Havana to the US, along with\u2026\u2026\u2026\n\nThis link is incomplete. Please repost your comment and the complete working link to the post you refer to.\n\nCE, try and steer your comments back to the original article instead of the tit for tat with Carlyle, who I hope will also stick to the topic.\n\nHere, although the problem isn\u2019t the embargo, it is our own government\u2019s own priorities (since most of their reps are bought and paid for by the insurance companies, big pharma, and the corporations which own most hospitals), the consumers are restricted by the prices imposed by the pharmaceutical companies. For example, the copay for an Rx I need every month just increased 700% (and this is just for the generic); hence, of necessity I have to cut down on the dosage prescribed by my doctor. Fortunately, my doc is sympathetic, and writes scripts for several months, which allow me to drive north three hours to fill them at a pharmacy just over the border.\n\nWhat makes you think we believe you know something. What makes you think you have all the answers. Typical Trumpite propagandist.\n\nThank you Senator Joe Macarthy. You are back. We are so glad.\n\nAre you trying to tell me a licensed US pharmacist is legally filling a Cuban prescription? Is this even legal? US citizens are prosecuted if they order meds from other countries. Something doesn\u2019t add up here.\n\nPipefitter, the link seems to be broken.\n\nNick: you seem to be fixated with the embargo impacting the sale of pharmaceuticals in both directions. Not only has Cuba been able to purchase US pharmaceuticals for a long time, but as of last year the US is allowed to purchase Cuban pharmaceuticals.\n\nDo note I am a bit unique here contending if one look at real facts and dismissed popular rhetoric, there is almost no significant impact to Cuba remaining from the embargo. I repeatedly challenge people to point out specific situations where the embargo currently means anything. No one has come up with anything yet.\n\nNow I do agree that there are certain people here who can immediately turn ANY topic about Cuba into a negative rant about the Cuban government. They use a broad paint brush and have no problems assigning others into binary groups of being totally for or totally again.\n\nIf you read this report on drug imports from the US to Cuba, you will understand how the embargo effects the import of drugs from the US. http://www.medicc.org/resources/embargo/Chapter%20Three.pdf\n\nThe most constructive use of the forum is for each participant to state their opinion on a given issue/article at hand and not be so preoccupied with arguing in circles with other commenters. Let the rest of the readers, the 99% that don\u2019t comment, judge for themselves.\n\nI\u2019m afraid you are quite wrong Mr MacD\u2026\u2026.\n\nI am most fond of facts. But there are different ways of reading the facts, different versions of the facts aren\u2019t there?\n\nAmnesty International is not a propaganda machine. Over the years it has been critical of both Cuba and the USA.\n\nGiven it\u2019s neutrality and reputation, I would take the \u2018Amnesty International version\u2019 regarding the effect of the embargo on Cuba\u2019s capacity to import medicines before the \u2018Mr MacD version\u2019 all day long.\n\nAnd incidentally I would put any propaganda from the Communist Party in Cuba and the deluge of propaganda from yourself in the same propaganda pot.\n\nHi Mr Robinson,\n\nThe embargo is one of the big factors involved in this matter because of the way in which it prevents Cuba from trading fairly with US pharmaceutical companies and their global subsidiaries and partner companies.\n\nHowever, I think you are very correct to say that the embargo is not the only issue when it comes to day to day life in modern Cuba.\n\nBut Rich Haney surely has a point when he alludes to individuals using this comments forum as their personal platform to pour out repetitive hatred and bitterness.\n\nReal life experiences you say?\n\nMore like real life propaganda.\n\nIt\u2019s very simple Rich. Despite opposing the embargo for many decades and speaking out against it, to me it is not the only issue and much less so when it comes to day to day life in today\u2019s Cuba. That is what some of the commenters you dislike bring us with their views based on real life experiences.\n\nYou now have your citation regarding the exclusion of medicines from the embargo. I would add regarding your comment on Cuban infant mortality rates that the Castro regime is notorious for \u201ccooking the books\u201d on self-reported data to the UN. The facts behind Castro propaganda is worth looking into. On this point we can agree.\n\nYou are correct to flag up the Cuban Governments record at distributing healthcare/medicines.\n\nHowever, as I point out in my comment below, Cuban statistics regarding life expectancy are pretty much the same as in the USA. Under 5 infant mortality statistics in Cuba are better than in the USA.\n\nIf as you say, there is no shortage in the USA then why these statistics?\n\nIt very much strikes me that if there is no shortage of medicine or healthcare in the USA, there must indeed be a grave issue regarding its distribution.\n\nSo you criticise Cuba for imperfect healthcare and medicine provision yet your country quite obviously has a different version of the same problem.\n\nThank You for the reference.\n\nThe embargo did not initially include medicines.\n\nIt was tightened in the early 60s so that it did include medicines.\n\nThe embargo was tightened further in the 90s by the notorious Helms-Burton act.\n\nWhat you refer to is a loosening of restrictions on medical supplies.\n\nHowever the embargo still prevents Cuba from buying medicines from the USA under normal import/export conditions. Cuba cannot import medicines from USA under the same normal conditions as Canada, Mexico etc.\n\nTherefore, although the embargo no longer PROHIBITS export of medicines to Cuba, it still actively RESTRICTS export of medicines to Cuba.\n\nThe fact remains that the embargo still PREVENTS normal trade between the USA and Cuba regarding medicines.\n\nWell, Circles, you can steer your ship in the manner you choose. Of course, you would never hold the \u201cbroken record\u201d or \u201cridiculous\u201d and repetitive propaganda from the likes of Moses, Carlyle, etc. accountable. I thus assume you belong to the zero portion of the 191-to-0 UN vote regarding the daily and unending assaults from the U. S. on totally innocent everyday Cubans. Allowing counter-revolutionary propagandists to dominate your site reminds me of Senator Joseph McCarthy preaching to his choir. But\u2026so be it. You can cancel my subscription, which I should have already done.\n\nNick won\u2019t believe you Bob, he hates facts.\n\nI hope you are correct Dan, but think you are wrong. The \u201cnew blood\u201d is Miguel Diaz-Canel with Bruno Rodriguez Carriles and Marino Murillo. They are a bunch of committed communist believers and practitioners. Diaz-Canel has been a Party hack since his youth, Raul selected him as his successor because he is hard core. Bruno Rodriguez has the advantage of being presentable and able to smile, but don\u2019t be fooled, he too is hard core \u2013 note it was Bruno who eight days after Barack Obama\u2019s offer of an olive leaf, declared that there would be no reciprocation.\n\nThe interesting thing about Raul passing the baton is that he has yet to say that he is retiring as Head of the military. His son-in-law controls GAESA \u2013 which controls over 80% of the Cuban economy, and his son controls both internal and external \u2018security\u2019 with MININT.\n\nCommunism of its nature always descends into dictatorship, that in turn means that one person controls. There are the three \u2018politicians\u2019 I named, plus the two Generals, members of Raul\u2019s direct family. There could be a struggle for power, as each of the five is power driven. Lack of funding from Venezuela could exacerbate the competition!\n\nTime for you Nick to look beyond the propaganda of the Propaganda Department of the Communist Party of Cuba and address the facts.\n\nRich, excuse me but I can\u2019t help but ask you to stop the broken record. For one the 1950s are gone forever. Was there good reason for the 1959 revolution yes. Now lets talk post-revolution. Your built in excuse theory is ridiculous but is in line with many government officials and media discourse. It belittles the Cuban people, basically telling them they can\u2019t do anything on their own and/or with trade and relations with the rest of the world to improve their lot, and that they must put up with the same leaders and the same system for future generations as long as the embargo remains in place. So just sit back and watch the decline, its perfectly justified.\n\nWhat makes this more tragic is pharmaceuticals are Cuba\u2019s #1 export, ahead of sugar, tobacco, and nickel.\n\nWhen my ex- girlfriend was dying of cancer, the syringes and needles for her morphine injections were frequently only available at the international pharmacy. She would have had even more serious problems without an understanding ex- to pay for them.\n\nNick: the section that excludes medicines from the US trade embargo is (Pub. L. 106\u2013387, \u00a7 1(a) [title IX, \u00a7 905], Oct. 28, 2000, 114 Stat. 1549, 1549A\u201369.)\n\nI do not hate the Castro\u2019s, but I see nothing changing until the whole reseme is long gone. I believe that new blood will not continue on this path. I\u2019m sure that they too await the possiblity of change\n\nIt would be incorrect to state that the medicine shortages in Cuba are entirely due to the US embargo. There are many other factors involved.\n\nNevertheless, there is a certain propagandist that contributes regularly to this comments page who is very fond of making the point that the US embargo on Cuba does not include medicines. However this contributor does have an unseemly habit of bending the facts to suit his own political views.\n\nIt would be most interesting if anyone would care to point to any source showing that the embargo does not apply to medicines. According to the American Association for World Health the embargo prevents Cuba from accessing over 50% of the world\u2019s medicines. This is backed up by Amnesty International and Oxfam.\n\n(Last time I checked, none of these three bodies were run by Communists).\n\nCuriously the removal of the embargo would not only benefit Cuba in terms of greater access to medicines. It would also be welcomed by many US health professionals and researchers as they would then be able to access medicines and bio-pharmaceuticals which have been developed in Cuba and are currently unavailable in the USA.\n\nWhen this topic is touched on it is always worth mentioning that statistics regarding life expectancy are broadly similar in Cuba as to the USA. Stats in Canada and some of Europe are slightly higher.\n\nRe the somewhat bizarre accusation that in Cuba there is \u2018no concern for children\u2019:\n\nUnder 5 infant mortality rate is distinctly preferable in Cuba compared to the USA.\n\nStats are almost exactly the same in Cuba and Canada (Europe varies).\n\nIts always interesting to look beyond the propaganda to the facts.\n\nMy wife\u2019s grandfather would be dead were it not for the monthly care package we send which includes his prescription blood pressure medicine. His medicine has not been available in Cuban pharmacies in years. I have seen it sold at the pharmacy in the Hotel National, but not recently. Her grandfather recently asked if we could send more pills than his dosage demands so that he could share with his friends. Sadly, we had to say no. The prescription is what it is. When people wonder why I criticize the Castro regime so vigorously, here is one reason.\n\nYou are correct in your summation Dan. Yet here on Havana Times there are contributors who admire and support the Castro communist regime. Such support necessitates ignoring the plight of the people of Cuba in order to support the doctrine of Marx. Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Kim and the Castros. There is no concern for humanity, freedom and liberty, no concern for children raised under the imposition of communism and no concern for individuality.\n\nYou are correct also in pointing out that there is no shortage of medical supplies in the USA, that also applies to Canada and the European countries. The US embargo does not prevent their importation. The sole question is the priorities of the Castro regime. GAESA gives priority to importing gas stoves, refrigerators and other products upon which they can place very high mark-ups \u2013 up to 200%.\n\nSuch is life in a Communist country. Third world Communist countries are worse. It is what it is. Yes, your leader could solve the problem..there is no shortage of medical supplies\u2026it\u2019s the Cuban government\u2019s way of acquiring and distributing them. We have no shortage here in the U.S." + } + ] +} \ No newline at end of file