News (Noticias) Tagged ‘Bolivia’
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September 25, 2008
September 17, 2008
September 16, 2008
The Machine Gun and The Meeting Table: Bolivian Crisis in a New South America
September 15, 2008
September 12, 2008
September 8, 2008
August 11, 2008
Bolivia: Is Evo in Danger after the August 10 referendum ? The US prepares a civil war
August 9, 2008
August 5, 2008
USHCC Supports PaycardUSA as it Offers Hispanic Workers the La Moneda Card Prepaid MasterCard(R)
Tags: Bolivia, book, Canada, Hispanic Chamber, mobile, Uruguay, USHCC
The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) proudly announces its support of a new PaycardUSA program that will offer its business members the convenience of paying their workers through the La Moneda (The Coin) Card Prepaid MasterCard.
“As a business owner in the construction industry we employ hundreds of Hispanic workers. I was so excited when we discovered how the PaycardUSA payroll cards worked for us and our workers, our company invested in PaycardUSA. We are honored to be endorsed as the USHCC payroll card and will work diligently to keep bringing critical financial services to workers — using the card as the registration and payment vehicle.” James Hammer, owner WestCor Construction & PaycardUSA.
The La Moneda Card is essentially a prepaid MasterCard card, allowing workers to avoid check cashing lines and fees and offering key benefits such as:
– Easy on-line bill pay
– State of the art mCash mobile commerce application
– The ability to purchase special discounted goods and services
– Additional cards can be ordered for other family members, allowing the employee to move funds to the family card. No more wiring fees to send family members money or having to send cash with family members on vacation.
– Workers have the freedom to rent movies, purchase online, or make everyday purchases without having to walk around with a lot of cash.“The USHCC is proud to support PaycardUSA as it provides our business members with a system that will truly meet the most pressing needs of Hispanic workers,” said Elizabeth Gallagher, USHCC Vice-Chair. “The La Moneda Card Prepaid MasterCard is the preferred solution for our business members’ Hispanic workforce and we recommend the card for any worker.”
A Paycard saves small and medium size businesses both time and money as it is less costly to pay workers through a Paycard than paper checks. As a modern twist for “pay day,” it is a much more efficient and safer way for employees to receive their paycheck.
“It is costly for employers to pay workers by writing checks, money that businesses can save using the Paycard,” said Rafael Sanchez, USHCC Board Finance Chair. “The ROI calculator website feature is an easy tool that will allow you to calculate your savings per employee per year based on check printing and bookkeeping.”
For more information on the partnership and the La Moneda Card Prepaid MasterCard program, please visit www.paycardusa.net/lamonedacard or www.ushcc.com .
About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate more than $388 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia and Uruguay.About PaycardUSA, LLC
PaycardUSA offers payment solutions that allow you to pay dozens, hundreds or even thousands of employees with a single transaction that takes mere minutes. With the paperless PaycardUSA MasterCard(R) Payroll Card program, you can make your payroll process simple and easy and save your company money while providing your employees the benefit of a Prepaid MasterCard card. PaycardUSA is a registered MSP of Palm Desert National Bank. The La Moneda Card Prepaid MasterCard is issued by Palm Desert National Bank pursuant to a license from MasterCard International Incorporated.MasterCard is the registered trademark of MasterCard International Incorporated. “
July 29, 2008
Iglesias Nights - An Evening of Salsa Dancing and Latin Culture in Los Angeles
Tags: Antonio Banderas, Bolivia, book, non-profit, Reno, salsa dancing, Tequila
Imagine a night of sensual Latin performers, igniting the dance floor with their passion for life, and their spirit for living. The vibrant strains of the music, combined with the flavors and spicy taste of Tapas and Empanadas, along with the distilled liquid fire of premium Tequila cocktails - this sounds like the opening of a hot new, Latin dance club in Los Angeles, right? Something you would expect in the City of Angels - but this time there is a twist. It is not a new club; it is a charity fundraiser, and a book signing hosted by Rodrigo Iglesias on Tuesday, July 29th, 2008.
Rodrigo Iglesias, a local Real Estate agent and investor, ranking in the top 1% of the Real Estate professionals internationally, wants the L.A. community to experience Latin culture at its finest with a night of dancing, fine food, and cocktails. The evening starts with Salsa Lessons with Rodrigo and Vai, recognized instructors and performers that have appeared in major commercials and on national television including the hit ABC show, Dancing with the Stars.
The duo recently choreographed for Chris Brown and Rihanna at the 2008 BET Awards and now lend their talents to create an explosive night of entertainment with a special appearance by Sandor, a Tony nominated choreographer from the acclaimed London production Forever Tango and his partner, Parissa, Antonio Banderas’ dancing coach in the film Take the Lead.
The night continues with the debut of the vocal styling of the singer Kapovianco, from Bolivia, performing his new single “Dale Pa’lante.” And as a bonus, proceeds from the event will go towards two of Mr. Iglesias’ favorite local charities - Green Dot Public Schools, a non-profit working to change the public education system in Los Angeles to emphasize leadership, and life skills, and Chicar, a non-profit organization dedicated to the empowerment of Latino youth through financial education, helping them to keep moving forward towards success, regardless of hardships or setbacks.
The event marks the WORLD PREMIERE of Rodrigo Iglesias’ new project, a complete Spanish translation and adaptation of the 1904 classic, “The Science of Getting Rich,” by Wallace D. Wattles. In 1995, Mr. Iglesias first experienced the impact of this book in its English form at a seminar conducted by renowned inspirational speaker, Bob Proctor. Proctor has inspired tens of thousands of people including Rhonda Byrne, writer of the extraordinarily successful book and movie, “The Secret.” Similarly, Rodrigo Iglesias was motivated to further his own career using the principals of the book, and then inspired to make this knowledge available to the Latin community for the first time - not only in Spanish, but in an easy “down to earth adaptation” of these teachings, and by integrating the training and methods into Latin music and lyrics. This unique music and lyrical combination will be heard for the first time at this special unveiling event - called Iglesias Nights.
When asked what moved him to use music as a teaching medium, Mr. Iglesias stated, “The lyrics and music help to lift the listener’s spirit, assist them in finding a sense of purpose, and open the mind and heart to a sense of passion and life that drives them to achieve anything they truly desire.”
This dynamic event is the first of many to follow with an emphasis on the flavors of Latin Culture, coupled with the much-needed encouragement of today’s youth towards achievement and prosperity. Mr. Iglesias plans to relentlessly continue his unique and powerful new approach to inspiring others to reach for their dreams - all while enjoying festive Latin music and culture at the same time. Iglesias Nights also promises to provide a great opportunity for upcoming Latin artists like Kapovianco to gain exposure, and to provide inspiration to the community, in a truly exceptional way. By combining the distinctive aspects of Latin food, music, and dancing, Rodrigo Iglesias has created a powerful method of delivering his message of personal and financial success to the public.
To learn more about Rodrigo Iglesias, Iglesias Nights, and the new Spanish language translation and adaptation of “The Science of Getting Rich” (ISBN - 978-0741446268), details can be found at the event’s website, www.iglesiasnights.com, or www.rodrigoiglesias.com. Tickets for the first event on Tuesday, July 29th, 2008 are available online for $30, with proceeds going to the two charities. A VIP package is also available, and media requests should be forwarded to Veronica Jacuinde, at (310) 508-1896.”
July 24, 2008
July 22, 2008
CABAS CONQUISTA ESTADOS UNIDOS CON AMORES DIFICILES
Tags: Argentina, Bolivia, CABAS, Colombia, Colombian

CABAS CONQUISTA ESTADOS UNIDOS
CON “AMORES DIFÍCILES”
EL CANTANTE FUE RECONOCIDO COMO UN “CIUDADANO HONORABLE” POR PARTE DEL CONCEJO DE LA CIUDAD DE NUEVA YORK

SU HIT RADIAL “BONITA”
DESPUÉS DE 21 SEMANAS CONTINÚA LIDERANDO LOS LISTADOS EN COLOMBIA CONVIRTIENDO EL ÁLBUM - “AMORES DIFICILES” -
EN UNO DE LOS MÁS VENDIDOS Y ESCUCHADOS EN COLOMBIA
Miami, Julio 21 del 2008 - Luego de terminar con éxito una extensa gira de promoción por los Estados Unidos; visitando territorios como Puerto Rico, Miami y Nueva York, el cantautor Colombiano CABAS recibió un gran reconocimiento por parte del Concejo Municipal de la ciudad de Nueva York este pasado jueves 17 de julio - en el marco de la celebración de los 198 años de Independencia de Colombia. El cantante recibió este gran homenaje de manos del Honorable Concejal Hiram Monserrate, Primer Concejal Latino en Queens.
“Me siento súper agradecido y honrado por este reconocimiento que me hace el gobierno de los Estados Unidos, y sobre todo la ciudad de Nueva York. Yo tuve la oportunidad de vivir dos años allí y guardo gratos recuerdos de esta gran ciudad” comento el artista.
(CABAS junto al Cónsul General de Colombia en Nueva York
el Honorable Sr. Francisco Noguera Rocha)
Foto Suministrada LMC Media Group LLC
Luego de esta celebración, el cantante regreso a Miami a cumplir con varias actividades de su agenda promocional y partió a primera hora, del día sábado, hacia Medellín - a formar parte del majestuoso Concierto Nacional por la Paz en celebración del 20 de Julio – día de la Independencia de Colombia. CABAS fue el artista invitado a cerrar este gran concierto en la ciudad de Medellín ante más de 50 mil personas.
Vale la pena mencionar que su hit radial ‘Bonita” lleva mas de 21 semanas ocupando el puesto #1 a nivel radial en su país natal - Colombia – convirtiendo su mas reciente álbum “Amores Difíciles” en uno de los mas vendidos y escuchados en Colombia. “Bonita” de igual manera ocupa los primeros lugares en Bolivia, Argentina y Republica Dominicana respectivamente.
Food rise has Bolivia’s coca farmers planting rice
Tags: agriculture, Bolivia
Soaring food prices may achieve what the United States has spent millions of dollars trying to do: persuade Bolivian farmers to sow their fields with less potent crops than cocaine’s raw ingredient.”*
5 dead, president safe after Bolivian helicopter crashes
Tags: Bolivia, reporter, Venezuela
A Venezuelan military helicopter often used to transport President Evo Morales crashed in central Bolivia, but Morales was not aboard and is safe, Bolivia’s defense minister said Monday. Five crew members were reported killed.
Morales had used the Super Puma helicopter on Saturday and was scheduled to fly in it again on Monday, Defense Minister Walker San Miguel told reporters. He said those killed were “people linked to presidential transport.””*
July 21, 2008
United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Dale A. Crowell, New Director of Communications
Tags: Bolivia, Canada, Hispanic Chamber, latin america, Puerto Rican, Uruguay, USHCC
The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), the leading advocate for the more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States, proudly welcomes Dale A. Crowell as the organization’s new Director of Communications. Crowell brings to the USHCC more than 13 years of experience working in media and public relations, public affairs, project management, brand management, and international development.
“We are very pleased to welcome Dale into the USHCC family,” said USHCC Chairman David C. Lizárraga. “His experience with the national and local media as well as legislators and other public officials will be an invaluable asset to our organization. He and his team will play a key role as we promote exciting new partnerships, upcoming national events, and other programs and initiatives.”
Most recently, Crowell served as Director of Public Relations for Bethesda, Maryland-based Honest Tea, the nation’s best-selling organic bottled tea company. While there, he helped the company greatly increase its earned media exposure in leading consumer outlets, trade publications, national daily newspapers, television and radio shows, and web-based media. Before Honest Tea, Crowell was the Director of Communications and Public Outreach for the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) where he managed overall communications and outreach initiatives for projects and field offices in seven countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. At PADF, Crowell also conducted outreach and developed relationships with members of Congress, corporate donors, public officials, partner organizations, and media outlets. He has also served as the Director of Communications for the Office of Congressman José E. Serrano [D-NY].
“I am delighted to join the USHCC. This organization’s history and reputation speak for themselves and as the new Director of Communications I intend to keep that tradition moving forward,” stated Dale Crowell. “I am proud of the confidence that both David Lizárraga and Augustine Martinez have expressed in me and look forward to working with the entire team to promote the Chamber to an even wider audience,” he added.
As Director of Communications for the USHCC, Crowell is responsible for all Internal and External Communications and for developing and implementing the Chamber’s communications strategy. In this key role, Crowell also serves as key Editorial Board member for USHCC’s award-winning TV program, Hispanics Today, and a subscriber publication, Hispanic Enterprise Magazine.
“An excellent communicator, fluent in English and Spanish, Crowell has the necessary experience and proven track record to lead our Communications Team,” said Augustine Martinez, USHCC President and CEO. “In addition to his professional success, Crowell’s passion for working with the Hispanic community makes him a perfect addition to our staff.”
Crowell, of Puerto Rican heritage, lives in Maryland with his family. Crowell attended graduate courses at Georgetown University, Latin American Studies Master’s Program, focused on US foreign policy and Inter-American relations. He graduated from the University of Maryland at College Park with a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Politics with a concentration in International Studies and History.
About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate more than $388 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia and Uruguay.About Hispanics Today
Hispanics Today is an English-language television show that highlights the largest and fastest growing segment of the U.S. population — the Latino market — and their impact on American business, politics, and culture. The show reaches 84% of Hispanic television viewers in 165 markets.
“*
July 18, 2008
Op-Ed: The importance of McCain’s Latin America trip - Alex Burgos
Tags: Argentina, Barack Obama, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, hispanic voters, Hugo Chavez, John McCain, latin america, Merida Initiative, mexico city, NAFTA, Nicaragua, Peru, Spanish-language
In the run-up to Sen. John McCain’s recent visit to Latin America, a chorus of doubters questioned the value of such a trip just four months before Election Day. Media coverage suggested it was foolish for him to leave the domestic campaign trail at a time when gas prices and a weak economy are the most pressing issues on voters’ minds .
Such thinking ignores the fact that in recent years, President Bush has been widely criticized for neglecting Latin America, which critics argue has facilitated an Hugo Chavez-led expansion of leftist governments in Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador and Nicaragua, in addition to razor-thin close calls in Mexico and Peru.
As a result, the trip accentuated another sharp contrast between McCain and his opponent – Latin America policy under a President McCain will be based on a lifetime of experience, meetings and friendships with regional leaders, and a long Senate career working on these issues versus Obama’s campaign cramming session. 20In just three short days, McCain managed to show mo re interest in Latin America’s future than Obama has demonstrated in his entire life.
From a hemispheric viewpoint, this difference will matter to the people of Latin America who are closely watching our presidential campaign and pondering relations with the next U.S. president. From a political standpoint, it will matter to Hispanic voters in the U.S. concerned about their families’ homelands. As anyone who regularly tunes it to the nightly news on Spanish-language TV can attest, current events in Latin America matter greatly to Hispanic viewers.
With that said, Hispanic voters are notoriously hard to pin down on the issues. Some are deeply concerned about Latin America policy, others are not. Some see immigration as a litmus test, while others rank it as a low priority. However, one common characteristic I have noted over the years is that all Hispanic voters look for evidence from presidential candidates that they didn’t suddenly discover their community and also have a track record of working on issues they care about. As I have advised my fellow Republicans, the most fundamental step candidates can take to win the hearts and votes of Hispanic voters is simply showing up and expressing an interest in reaching out to them. If that interest is supported by a long history of doing so, half the battle has been won. What comes out of their mouths – the substance – is the other half of the equation.
At this stage in their Hispanic outreach efforts, there is a key distinction becoming increasingly evident – like McCain, Obama is talking the talk, but only McCain has walked the walk.
Contrary to the belief that McCain’s audience during his trip was solely Hispanic voters, by visiting Colombia and Mexico, McCain emphasized the economic and security issues that affect all of us who reside in the Western Hemisphere. First, as the economy struggles, McCain reiterated that the solution is not to retreat from global commerce or backtrack from existing partnerships. Approving the languishing free trade agreement with Colombia and building on the gains we’ve achieved through NAFTA are essential for our short-term and long-term economic future. Free trade is a mainstream economic issue for all Americans, whether it’s discussed on a U.S. factory floor or in the foreign markets we seek to open to our products.
For those inclined to believe national security is fading as a campaign issue, we also received an emotional reminder of how closely America’s destiny is tied with Latin America’s security. Shortly after McCain departed Colombia, Americans at home were captivated by the Colombian military’s successful rescue of long-held FARC hostages, including former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt and three American contractors. To its credit, the American media gave this remarkable story the attention it merited, reminding us of all the U.S. has invested in the more secure and prosperous Colombia we have today, as well as what hangs in the balance in ensuring the region’s long-term security. Much is also at stake in helping Mexico combat its vicious drug gangs through the Merida Initiative.
Finally, on the cultural and political front, we have one more example of how McCain’s trip was a well thought out visit that will help endear him to more Hispanic voters. Last week, a Gallup study showed that while “Americans who say religion is an important part of their daily lives support John McCain over Barack Obama for president,” one of two notable exceptions to this finding was Hispanic Catholics, who “appear to be strong Obama supporters regardless of whether they report being personally religious.”
During McCain’s visit to Mexico City, he toured the Basilica de Guadalupe, Mexico’s holiest Catholic site, where he laid a wreath of white roses at the altar and received a blessing from its monsignor. To conclude a policy-heavy trip with a meaningful activity like this demonstrates his respect for our neighbors to the south and honors their rich culture and religious traditions. It also shows that the U.S. and Mexico are allies and friends, with a relationship built on mutual interests and values.
To some analysts, the conventional wisdom might lead them to believe that unless you are talking about immigration, there is little else that Hispanic voters care about in this election. In reality, McCain is sending a compelling message to this community on a number of fronts – in the U.S. and from abroad. That this most recent trip was the product of his own wishes, without prodding (as is the case with Obama’s upcoming Iraq trip), and in the face of widespread skepticism shows he understands how to continue making inroads with Hispanics.
More importantly, McCain’s Latin America trip proves that his mind is not just focused on the next four months of campaigning but also on the next four years of governing. When candidates show their presidential credentials as McCain did in Latin America, it can resonate for the duration of the campaign and beyond.
Alex Burgos previously served on the communications staff of Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign and the National Republican Congressional Committee.
July 17, 2008
Tags: Argentina, Bolivia, Canada, Chile, circulation, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, latin america, mobile, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, social media, Spanish-language, Uruguay, Venezuela
Marketwire, a full-service newswire and communications workflow solutions provider, today announces the debut of NoticiasDigitales, the newswire industry’s first real-time business-to-consumer digital news service to publish Spanish-language news on Latin American websites. An enhancement to its Spanish-language press release distribution circuits, Marketwire’s NoticiasDigitales displays press releases on more than 100 leading newspaper, financial and economic news, and media websites and portals that bring corporate news to millions of influential Spanish-speaking viewers across North America, Central America and South America.
“With the rapid growth of social media and ‘citizen journalism,’ the future of the newswire industry depends on leveraging new technologies to offer effective business-to-consumer news delivery solutions,” commented Marketwire Vice President of Emerging Markets Hector Botero. “Ethnic, emerging and international markets represent enormous, untapped opportunities for an online digital news distribution service, and we are extremely excited to launch an industry first to our clients who target Spanish-speaking audiences.”
Participants in the large web network at the core of Marketwire’s NoticiasDigitales include major news media, business, finance and technology websites published in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay and Venezuela. Examples of participating websites are Caracol Radio, Clarín.com, Dinero.com, El Universal.com and Nacion.com.
A 30-day testing period revealed that between June 11 and July 11, 2008, Marketwire’s NoticiasDigitales received more than 4 million total impressions from visitors in 21 countries. Thirty percent, or 1.2 million of those impressions came from visitors in Colombia, an economy growing at 6.8 percent a year (two full points faster than the Latin American average); 29 percent, or 1.18 million of the impressions were from the United States; 13 percent, or 520,000 impressions, came from visitors in Argentina, a country that has experienced four consecutive years of more than 8 percent growth in GDP; and 11 percent, or 431,000 impressions, came from Mexico, a country counting the United States as its largest trading partner.
Now, by adding more than 100 websites and 3 million-plus monthly views to its comprehensive Latin America distribution circuits that, combined, reach more than 80,000 media points in Latin America, Marketwire reinforces its position as the leading Latin American market press release distributor. NoticiasDigitales is included in all of Marketwire’s Spanish-language press release distribution circuits: five Latin America/South America distribution packages; newslines to 17 Latin American countries; and its industry-leading North America Hispanic newsline that reaches more than 5,000 journalists and editors through Marketwire’s NoticiasFinancieras news syndicate generating news for print publications with combined circulation exceeding 3 million daily, and readership, including web properties, exceeding 10 million.
About Marketwire
The only fully integrated North America-based global newswire, Marketwire, Inc. is a full-service partner to IR, PR and MarCom professionals seeking top-tier news distribution, media management, multimedia and monitoring solutions. Marketwire’s customer-centric corporate philosophy focuses on being the best by infusing every aspect of its business with the following core attributes: precision, adaptability, innovation and simplicity.
Marketwire delivers its clients’ news to the world’s media and financial communities, fulfilling disclosure requirements in North America in compliance with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), and serving as Primary Information Provider (PIP) with the UK’s Financial Services Authority (FSA). With a reputation for technology leadership, Marketwire offers innovative products and services — including Social Media, Search Engine Optimization, Dashboard Mobile Financial, News Dashboard coverage reports, exclusive access to networks such as the Canadian Press Wire Network, Easy IR and Easy PR workflow solutions, and more — that help communication professionals maximize their effectiveness while ensuring accuracy and best practices.
Having merged companies (Market Wire and CCNMatthews) in April 2006, and enjoying a combined history of 25 years of service, Marketwire is now majority-owned by OMERS Capital Partners, the private equity arm of one of Canada’s largest pension funds. Marketwire distributes the majority of press releases issued by publicly traded companies in Canada and serves more than 8,000 clients worldwide through 19 offices on four continents. For more information, visit us at www.marketwire.com. “*
July 13, 2008
Tags: Bolivia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Hispanic Chamber, latin america, Peru, Spain, Uruguay, USHCC
The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), the leading advocate for the more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States, is pleased to announce that Hilda Rayas will serve as Chief Operating Officer for the USHCC. Rayas brings more than 25 years of documented success in global leadership, minority business advocacy and executive level management to the USHCC.
“Rayas is truly a global executive leader whose expertise will be an invaluable asset to our organization,” said USHCC President and CEO Augustine Martinez. “As COO, Rayas’ charisma and international experience offers our organization great leadership as we continue to work toward building and strengthening the Hispanic business community in the United States and globally.”
Most recently, Rayas served as Director of the Interracial Council for Business Opportunities (ICBO) in New York. Her many professional achievements include: obtaining $8B in international consumer long distance revenue in a highly competitive Mexico market, managing budgets up to $160M and a work force of 5,000 employees, and designing and developing an integrated $135M marketing plan for Puerto Rico while strengthening client relations in a competitive Latino market. In almost ten years of working for AT&T, Rayas also navigated complex political situations in both the USA and Latin America/Caribbean resulting in the company’s entry into Spain, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
“The political landscape is rapidly changing and now is the time for immense progress in this arena,” said Hilda Rayas. “I am passionate and excited about the key role Hispanics will continue to play in America’s future. I am honored to be of service to this organization to help move this necessary and important agenda to the forefront of mainstream America.”
As COO of the organization, Rayas is responsible for the financial oversight and all internal operations of the organization. She will serve as Legislative liaison with Members of Congress advocating for and supporting legislation affecting small business owners, specifically Hispanic-owned. Rayas is also one of three major senior management personnel responsible for fundraising for the USHCC and the principal contact person for sponsorship and advertising opportunities for USHCC’s award winning television program, Hispanics Today.
“Rayas is a perfect example of the strong Latina leadership that is so prominent in our Hispanic business community today,” said Martinez. “Rayas joins our organization during an exciting time as we gear up for the 29th Annual Convention and Business Expo in Sacramento, California this September. I couldn’t be more confident that she will help lead and strengthen our events, programs and initiatives in order to better serve our constituents.”
Rayas was born in Ciudad Delicias, Chihuahua, Mexico and raised in El Paso, Texas. Rayas has been appointed to various leadership positions for the United States Hispanic Advocacy Association (USHAA), Hudson County Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic B2B Committee. She is a graduate of Executive Level Education Programs including: University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan, Dartmouth University, and Harvard University.
About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate more than $388 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia and Uruguay.About Hispanics Today
Hispanics Today is an English-language television show that highlights the largest and fastest growing segment of the U.S. population — the Latino market — and their impact on American business, politics, and culture. The show reaches 84% of Hispanic television viewers in 165 markets.About USHCC Foundation
The USHCC Foundation is committed to the purpose of giving Latino entrepreneurs alternatives for life preparation and life-long learning by developing and implementing initiatives and educational campaigns to awaken and nurture their entrepreneurial spirit. The Foundation leverages corporate and public support to ensure that existing and aspiring Latino entrepreneurs gain access and achieve success in the world of business. Please visit www.ushccfoundation.org for more information on the USHCC Foundation. “
June 26, 2008
Tampa: ‘The Ideal Gateway to Commerce with the Americas’
Tags: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Hispanic Chamber, latin america, Panama, Peru, Senator Mel Martinez, Uruguay, USHCC
Leaders from the Hispanic business community held a press conference this morning to announce Tampa Bay as the first city in the United States chosen to host the 18th Annual Retailers of the Americas Conference. Present at the press conference to discuss highlights of the event were the following members of the Tampa Bay’s Host Committee:
– Derek Lloyd, President of Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of Tampa Bay (CACCTB),
– Augustine Martinez, USHCC President & CEO,
– Julio Fuentes, President of the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.“The CACCTB is committed to the growth and development of the Tampa Bay region and Florida.” stated Mr. Lloyd. “We are pleased to welcome our Caribbean, South and Central America neighbors to Tampa Bay and provide a favorable setting which encourages numerous opportunities to promote and expand their business successfully.”
Tampa was selected due to leading attributes such as its diverse Hispanic heritage and the opportunities that Tampa Bay region provides globally and locally for its cultural ties, airport facilities, port, industrial centers and distribution of goods. From a business perspective the Tampa Bay region provides more than just theme parks, it provides an industry that parallels the growth in global commerce and communication.
“Tampa holds such a talented cross-section of people, all looking to promote the city and what it has to offer,” said Augustine Martinez. “In our preliminary search for the perfect city to name as host for this one of a kind event, we were blown away by the Tampa community. We highlighted Tampa for the simple fact that, when thinking of how to bring commerce to the U.S., Tampa has it covered. Geographically and culturally, it is the perfect gateway to the Americas.”
“On behalf of the Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we show full support of this great conference,” said Julio Fuentes, FSHCC President. “We are excited that the city of Tampa was chosen and extend the invitation to Hispanic businesses in the rest of Florida to participate.”
“Small businesses play a significant and important role in our economy. We need to continue opening markets at home and abroad to raise living standards and consolidate democratic gains in the hemisphere,” said Senator Mel Martinez on the benefit the conference will have on Tampa and the state of Florida.
The 18th Annual Retailers of the Americas Conference, also known as XVIII Congreso del Comercio Detallista de las Americas, will host hundreds of business executives and dignitaries from across Latin America and the United States. The conference, expected to see an attendance of 3,000, will convene in Tampa between November 20 -22, 2008.
The press conference took place at the Embassy Suites (Downtown) at 10:30AM. Speakers also included the Honorable Faye Culp, Florida House of Representatives and Neighborhood Services Administrator Santiago Corrada.
Background:
The mission of the 18th Annual Retailers of the Americas Conference is to integrate the commercial sectors in the western hemisphere in a collaboration effort to develop strategies and initiatives directed at fortifying technological know-how, economic development and the creation of jobs. Previous host countries include, Dominican Republic, Uruguay, Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru, Mexico, Chile, Puerto Rico and Argentina.About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of more than 2.5 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States that generate more than $388 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for 200 local Hispanic chambers in the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, Bolivia and Uruguay.”*
Traducido: usando Google o Altavista/Babel Fish
June 24, 2008
LANVACATIONS Announces Premium Business Packages to Peru Priced From $1399
Tags: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, tourism, Uruguay
LANVACATIONS, the vacation division of LAN Airlines, is offering the opportunity to experience Lima in luxury. In collaboration with LAN Peru, this offer allows passengers to indulge in LAN’s super-comfortable and newly redesigned Premium Business Class at a fraction of the regular price.
(Logo: www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080319/AQW083LOGO)LAN’s Premium Business is the only business class with 180-degree reclining, full-flat seats on flights between the US and South America. The cabin offers an on-demand entertainment system that only a select number of airlines offer, including 32 movies, 55 TV programs and series, 450 music CDs and 14 games available to play individually or with other passengers.
“This package is perfect for a lavish weekend getaway or can serve as a base for planning your custom-designed dream vacation,” stated Martin Froggatt, President of LANVACATIONS. “In addition, through our strong partnership with PromPeru, Peru’s tourism marketing organization, LANVACATIONS ensures that passengers receive the highest quality vacation and the assurance of traveling with a trusted partner.”
The Lima Premium Business Supersaver package is priced from $1399 and includes roundtrip premium business class flights to Lima, roundtrip airport transfers, 3 night hotel accommodations, breakfast daily, hotel taxes and service charges, and 24 hour emergency telephone numbers. Package price excludes airport taxes and fees. This package departs on certain days and a Saturday night stay is required. Contact one of LANVACATIONS’ South America experts to assist in building an itinerary that best fits your schedule.
For more information about the Lima Premium Business package, travel to South America, and reservations, please visit www.lanvacations.com or call a reservations expert at 1-800-435-3593 (6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. PT Monday - Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Saturday and Sunday).
About LANVACATIONS:
LANVACATIONS offers complete travel experiences to the countries of South America (Chile, Peru, Argentina, Ecuador, Brazil, Bolivia and Uruguay) and caters to a full range of ages, interests and budgets. From unique tour packages to group itineraries and independent travel programs, LANVACATIONS, the experts in travel to South America, has the perfect South America vacation package for you.LANVACATIONS was developed due to the dramatic growth of the LAN Airline Alliance network to and throughout the South American region, as well as the tremendous increase in demand for travel to South America. LAN Airlines appointed Europe Express, Inc. to represent the new LANVACATIONS as it continues to surpass travelers’ expectations by providing complete travel experiences to a variety of unique destinations and yet untouched regions throughout the southern hemisphere”*
June 17, 2008
Arlington Schools Candidacy Captures Latino Imagination - Virginia
Tags: Bolivia, newspaper
In Bolivia last month on business, Diego Arias of Arlington County picked up a newspaper and stopped at a familiar face. Prominently placed on the third page, in a section separating winners from losers, was a photograph of Emma Violand-Sanchez.
Somehow the landlocked South American nation that Violand-Sanchez left as a teenager more than four decades ago not only knew about her victory in a party caucus to endorse Arlington School Board candidates but also considered the development newsworthy.
“It’s amazing,” Laura Anduze said, looking at a copy of the newspaper her husband, Arias, brought home. “She must have a lot of people who believe in her.”"*


