 Edición Semanaria de Noticiero Latino |
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August 2004
August 6th | Listen to the program
BUSH AND 9-11 COMMISSION - In a turnaround on anti-terrorism policies, President Bush announced that he would adopt the recommendations put forward by the 9-11 Commission. Specifically, President Bush is considering the creation of a national intelligence office. However, his critics say such actions are motivated by electoral aspirations. Patricia Guadalupe reports from Washington, DC.
NEW YORK REACTS TO ORANGE ALERT - This week, Homeland Security Secretary, Tom Ridge announced high probabilities of possible terrorists attacks in several financial districts in New York, New Jersey and Washington. In New York, the heightened alert activated costly and sophisticated security mechanisms, a few weeks before the beginning of the Republican National Convention, by the end of the month. However, as Marco Vinicio Gonzalez reports, there are those who question the timing of the announcement.
FISHING IN MEXICO AT RISK - Fishing in Mexico’s coasts is a deep-rooted tradition that currently employees almost a quarter of a million workers. However, this way of life is under crisis due to environmental and economic problems. A zone in deep trouble is the coast of Zihuatanejo, in the state of Guerrero, recently visited by our correspondent, Kent Paterson. María Eraña narrates this report.
August 13th | Listen to the program
CRUCIAL PUERTO RICAN VOTE - Florida, the state that played a key role in President Bush’s victory in 2000, may be as decisive this election year, only in favor of Bush's opponent, according to analysts. A new poll indicates that the number of Puerto Rican voters have increased more than other groups in the state, and many of them are favoring Democratic Candidate, John Kerry. Patricia Guadalupe shares the details from Washington, DC.
MEXICAN SOCIAL SECURITY REFORMS - The Mexican Congress is reforming the system of pensions and retirement amid calls to save it from the crisis that engulfs its mother agency: the Mexican Social Security Institute. The new law sets aside retirement funds, keeping it separate from benefits such as childcare, prescription drugs and medical care. The union of social security workers opposes the reforms, warning that future generations of beneficiaries will pay the price. Correspondent Citlali Saenz files the report from Mexico City.
RECYCLING PLANT REJECTED IN CALIFORNIA - Plant backers describe it as an installation that will convert plastic garbage into energy and will bring much-needed jobs to the Central Valley. On the other hand, neighbors and environmentalists warn that the plant is a toxic incinerator in disguise, and that its dangerous emissions are also hidden. The battle for permits to build the plastic waste processing plant in the small agricultural town of Hanford is currently facing decisive moments.
August 20th | Listen to the program
9/11 COMMISSION REACHES CONCLUSION - The commission in charge of investigating the September 11th terrorist attacks is nearing its conclusion. In the meantime, Senate committees are sponsoring hearings to discuss commission recommendations amidst harsh criticism. A group of Republican legislators is pressuring to dedicate the remainder of the legislative session to other issues. Patricia Guadalupe reports from Washington, DC.
NEW RESIGNATION IN FOX ADMINISTRATION - Mexico's Public Security secretary, Alejandro Gertz resigned his post last week, claiming he wished to retire. This resignation stirred again the buzz about a political crisis in President Fox's administration. In response, Fox has announced new policies against crime and has named a close ally to serve as country's public security head. Citlali Saenz shares details from Mexico City.
BURYING FALLEN SOLDIERS: A DOUBLE BURDEN - California is the state that has suffered the most casualties during the war in Iraq. One third of the 111 fallen California soldiers, are Latinos. One of the latest killed is Robert Abad. His family now suffers the double burden of dealing with the pain of their loss, and having to ask the community for help to pay for their son's funeral. Ruben Tapia reports from Los Angeles.
August 27th | Listen to the program
OVERTIME PAY - Controversial federal regulations denying mandatory overtime pay for millions of workers and granting payment to others, went into effect this week. These regulations represent the biggest change in labor laws in over 50 years. Criticism for these laws have not ceased, and just of few days before the kickoff of the National Republican Convention, Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. John Kerry vows to make these new regulations a central issue in his campaign. Patricia Guadalupe reports from Washington, DC..
REPUBLICAN CONVENTION IN NYC - Republican delegates, politicians and journalists are beginning to fill New York's street to attend the Republican National Convention beginning this week. Nearly one quarter of a million activists are also expected to perform the most massive protests since the 60s. The local government is displaying a costly security apparatus, which is beginning to annoy Manhattan neighbors. Our correspondent, Marco Vinicio reports.
THE UNINSURED AND THE ELECTORAL AGENDA - Recent news announced by the U.S. Census reveal that the number of uninsured had reached record levels. The data indicates that Latinos continue to be the group lacking most frequently of health insurance. Although this issue doesn't make a lot of headlines during political campaigns, it remains a top priority within the Latino community.