Category: Mar 2004

A story about pushing Latinos out of a Kensington area schoolBy T Martin (as Escritor X) Almost 1,000 students of the Marianna Bracetti Charter Academy might be flooding public or other charter schools in September if the School Reform Commission upholds its decision to deny the school’s charter renewal request. Currently, the commission cites poor bookkeeping, incomplete staff background checks and less than 75% certification among teachers as reasons for not honoring the academy’s request for renewal. And while…

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Political prisoners appeal to teens to continue struggleBy T Martin Two generations of Puerto Rican political prisoners led a discussion about the Puerto Rican resistance on Tuesday night, March 16th, and their audience included a younger group than usual. As former City Councilman Angel Ortiz pointed out, it was disappointing to see fewer of the familiar faces that have long been part of the Puerto Rican movement, but just as good to see new – and younger – faces…

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Keystoners prepare for conferenceBy T Martin Sounds of rap and hip-hop ensue from the shelf stereo system. Kids in black T-shirts sweep and mop the cafeteria floor. Teens in burgundy or gray or blue T-shirts sort through the piles of red folders in front of them. Youths flock to the continental breakfast laid out for them, all the while chattering about this or that. Adults in aqua T-shirts hurry everyone out of the cafeteria and up to the teen…

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Latino dance group hosts “Picture Day”By T Martin The stars of the 2002 Puerto Rican Day Parade staged a fundraiser that got families out of the house in one of the “many positive things” they do in the community. Ritmo Latino dancers and their parent-managers organized “Family Picture Day” on Friday, March 5th and Saturday, March 6th at 7th and Rising Sun Avenue. The group is raising money for a trip to New York, where members hope to perform…

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Torch Club youngsters take on current eventsBy T Martin Picture 50 or so 10- to 13-year-olds divided among four classrooms and engaged in lively discussions on the top issues facing Americans today. Imagine hearing words like “generalization” and “analyze” pop up here and there as they voice their opinions on the burning issues of America. Visualize the Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia holding its Annual Torch Club Conference at the Northeast Frankfort Boys and Girls Club on Kinsey…

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Teens celebrate ethnicity, not just Black historyBy T Martin “Black history is a part of American history, and we need to be proud and acknowledge our heritage – African, Spanish, Asian… – at all times!” Roberto Clemente Middle School Assistant Principal Crystal Clark encouraged students at her school to celebrate their ethnicity no matter what time of year it is, not just during Latino Heritage month or Black History month, during the school’s Black History talent show. 5th and…

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Political leaders unite against gun violenceBy T Martin Family, friends and neighbors of Jose Negron, Jr. gathered at 6th and Lycoming Streets in Philadelphia’s Hunting Park area to celebrate his life and to offer prayers to end the violence that plagues our City streets. Democratic State Representative candidate Rafael Collazo hosted the Monday, March 1st vigil, emceeing for the community, religious and political leaders that came forward with words of comfort, prayer and encouragement. District Attorney Lynne Abraham attended,…

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Local makes a bid for seat HarrisburgBy T Martin Philly’s 179th District is looking for change in Harrisburg, and this year’s new candidate for State Representative might be their answer. Democratic state rep candidate and former Aspirante Rafael Collazo announced his candidacy for the position against incumbent Bill Rieger during his Monday, March 1st press conference. Knocking on over 1,600 doors, collecting over 1,800 signatures, and garnering support from allies such as State Rep. Angel Cruz of the 180th…

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