Chavez Drive $1.6 Million Five Month Streetscape Development And Improvement Project Completed In Milwaukee's South Side

H. Nelson Goodson, Co-founder of the Independent Riders of Milwaukee, a motorcycle riding group at S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive.

Photo by Juan Morales

August 31, 2010

Milwaukee, Wisconsin (HNNUSA) - On Tuesday, H. Nelson Goodson, Co-founder of the Independent Riders in Milwaukee takes a moment to pose for a historic photo of the S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive Streetscape $1.6 million development. Chavez Drive is scheduled to have all construction completed by the weekend. The project began on April 5, 2010. Chavez Drive was formally known as S. 16th Street.
The Independent Riders is a riding group not associated with any motorcycle club or association. Its membership is composed of law enforcement, professional, blue collar, business owners, including other careers and fields.   
Chavez business district members say, Ernesto and Olivia Villareal, owners of El Rey are working on a deal to sell or lease their old El Rey Grocery store property on the 1000 block of Chavez Drive to a franchised called Dollar Tree by the end of the year.  
An update, construction workers will be removing the yellow street stripes or traffic dividers along Chavez Drive and will replace them to direct traffic on both sides. "I expect for the Chavez Drive to actually open by the weekend. I will miss coming into the area, because I really liked working here where people were so receptive in getting their area improved. We had no problems in getting the project completed. This is the first time, I have worked on a streetscape that had upgraded benches, garbage cans, and bike racks put up. The city needs to come in and put up parking signs and meters along the Chavez Drive. On Wednesday, city officials and others will do a walkby to checkout the completed project," Bret M. Swenson, Project Manager said on Tuesday.
Just in time, before the September 16, Mexican Independence parade and celebration of Mexico's Bicentennial and the Revolution Centennial.
Before the construction, at least 20,000 vehicles drove through Chavez Dr. a day and more than 147,000 per week. With the new Streetscape improvement phase almost completed, city officials and Chavez Drive business owners expect to draw more traffic, tourists and business into the district.
This has been the first season for major construction or business improvement streetscape in decades (more than 40 years) for Chavez Dr. The project was initiated by the City of Milwaukee and Chavez Dr business district board members.
A city economic study reported that the South side households in the predominately Latino community located inside Postal Zip Code 53204 in Milwaukee spend more than $91 million annually in retail goods, according to the 2006 Department of City Development statistics. In one day, they spent approximately $249,315.06. The biggest tax-generating base for the city comes solely from the South side.
In Milwaukee, over 850 Hispanic owned businesses generate more than $225 million in annual sales. It is abundantly clear that the immigration of Hispanics and undocumented immigrants to Southeastern Wisconsin is tied to a large degree to the available resources that Hispanics have in the area.
In Wisconsin, over 3,000 Hispanic owned businesses generate more than $800 million in annual sales creation of jobs and available employment resulting in population growth as well as business growth. The Hispanic population increased by more than 4%, greater than the national Hispanic growth rate, and more than 271,000 Hispanics lived in Wisconsin in 2007. The population of Hispanics has grown by 40% since 2000, according to the U.S. Census report.
The South side project is part of the $1.968 million dollar improvement plan for the Cesar E. Chavez Business Improvement District (BID) #38 Streetscape Project. This is an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Project approved by President Barack H. Obama.
Engineers from Community Engineering & Building Services, LLC are managing and supervising the project.

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La Barbie, Beltran-Leyva Cartel Kingpin Captured By Mexican Federal Police In The State of Mexico

Édgar Valdez Villareal, aka, "La Barbie" operated a split faction of the Beltrán Leyva Cartel

Photos: SSP

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 30, 2010

Mexico City, Mexico - On Monday, federal police captured Édgar Valdez Villareal, 37, aka, "La Barbie" in La Cañada de Alférez near Salazar in the municipality of Lerma in the state of Mexico, according to the federal Secretary of Public Security (SSP). Villareal has been wanted by the Mexican government and an intelligence operative was initiated in June 2009 for his capture.
Villareal is originally from Laredo, Texas and worked for the Sinaloa Cartel before factions split from the Beltrán Leyva's. When Arturo Beltrán Leyva began an alliance with the Zetas, the Sinaloa Cartel separated from the Beltrán Leyva's. Villareal tried to take control of the Beltrán Leyva Cartel after Arturo was killed and began a war against one of the surviving Beltrán Leyva brothers who also wanted control. Villareal kept connections with Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, leader of the Sinaloa Cartel.
The following suspects were also taken into custody with Villareal, they were identified as Marisela Reyes Lozada, 40, from Mexico D.F.; Maritzel López Reyes, 18, from Mexico D.F.; Mauricio López Reyes, 25, from Mexico D.F.; Arturo Iván Arroyo Salas, 26, from Mexico D.F.; Juan Antonio López Reyes, 26, from Mexico D.F. and Jorge Valentín Landa Coronado, 28, from Laredo, Texas.
Villareal operated in Morelos, state of Mexico, Mexico D.F., Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, and Quintana Roo. His drug operation manufactured, smuggled and distributed over one ton of cocaine per month, according to federal police.
Villareal told authorities, the day Arturo Betrán Leyva was killed, Arturo had called him and asked for backup to help repell the Mexican Marines that had surrounded his hideout in Cuernavaca. Arturo wanted Villareal to send reinforcements to try and get him out. Villareal said, he told Arturo to turn himself in, but Arturo fired at Marines and was killed in return fire.
Villareal is wanted by he U.S. government and an indictment issued by the U.S. Court in Atlanta alleges he distributed thousands of pounds of cocaine from Mexico into the U.S. from 2004 to 2006. A federal wiretap connected Villareal as the key leader who managed a multi-million drug trafficking operation between the two countries.
A U.S. $2 million reward for Villareal had been offered and the U.S. government is expected to seek extradition.
In 2003, the U.S. Attorney in the District of Lousiana charged Villareal with conspiracy to distribute large quantities of marijuana. The Drug and Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation led to Villreal's charges, according to Steve Robertson, DEA agent in Washington D.C.
Villareal was wanted in Mexico for drug trafficking, kidnapping, extortion and in connection with ordering homicides of federal, state and local police.
He is accused of escalating the drug war in Nuevo Laredo  between the Beltrán Leyva and Sinaloa Cartels against the Zetas for control of the U.S. Interstate 35 route. A multi-billion drug transporting, smuggling and distribution operation in the Mexican bordertown connecting to Laredo, Texas.
President Felipe Calderón praised the federal police for Villareal's arrest.

Mexican Federal Police posed with Édgar Valdez Villareal, aka, "La Barbie" at a media conference in Mexico City.

Spanish news cast Internet link on La Barbie's arrest at: Noticia de La Barbie

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35-year-old Man Who Died Sunday Of Gunshot Wound Identified By Milwaukee Police

A makeshift memorial for Juan Antonio Casarez at the 1300 block of W. National Ave. read, "I Want Justice Please" and on the sidewalk read "I will find u justice!!"

Family photo: Juan Antonio Casarez

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 30, 2010

Milwaukee - On Monday, police identified the 35-year-old man killed at the 1300 block of W. National Ave. on early Sunday. The victim was Juan Antonio Casarez who police say was critically injured when he was shot at about 2:30 a.m.
Friends who held a vigil on Sunday say, Casarez was in a car with his sister and brother-in-law when another car parked next to them and someone shot into their car. Casarez was hit in the neck. His sister and brother-in-law then drove Casarez to the hospital. Casarez later died at Froedtert Hospital after being taken off a life support machine, according to police.
Police suspect Casarez was the intended target.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 7:00 PM, at Schaff Funeral Home. Visitation Thursday at the funeral home 5:00 PM until time of service at Schaff Funeral Home, 5920 W. Lincoln Ave.

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Morelia Leader Of The Familia Michoacana Connected To Ambush Deaths Of 12 Federal Police Arrested

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 30, 2010

Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico - Federal police in Mexico arrested José Luis García Vázquez, 28, aka, "El Chilaca," the alleged Morelia leader from the Familia Michoacana Cartel on August 22. Rafael Mora Paredes, aka, "El Mansito" was also taken into custody with Vázquez.
Vázquez is accused of masterminding the June 14, 2010 ambush that resulted in 12 federal police officers deaths in Zitácuaro.
He is accused of the June 13, 2009 deaths of four federal police officers where he lost his right eye by flying debris during the confrontation.
Vásquez confessed that on September 2009, Miguel Ortiz Miranda, aka, "El Tyson" killed José Manuel Revuelta, the Assistant Secretary of Public Security in Michoacan.
Vázquez is also accused of drug trafficking, extortion, homicides and forcing business owners to pay fees for establishing businesses in his territory.
Vásquez is originally from Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacan, according to federal police.

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Another Zeta Leader Arrested In Monterrey Mexico By Military Police

Juan Francisco Zapata Gallegos, aka, "El Billy" or "El Pelon"

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 30, 2010

Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico - On Friday, Mexican military police working on a tip captured Juan Francisco Zapata-Gallegos, aka, "El Billy" or "El Pelon," the current leader of the Zeta Cartel in Monterrey, the Office of the Secretary of National Defense (Sedena) confirmed. Zapata-Gallegos was taken into custody near the municipality of Juárez before 8:00 a.m. without incident. The alleged Zeta leader tried to convince authorities that they were mistaken, but tatoos confirmed his identity.
Zapata-Gallegos later confessed to his identity and participating in attacks against the military at a technical college where several students died, ordering kidnappings and took responsibility for various disappearances of people in Monterrey.
Sedena reported that members of the Zetas had attempted to rescue Zapata-Gallegos by launching an attack where military soldiers repelled the attack and killed four Zetas. Five Zetas were taken into custody.
Other Zetas around the same time set up road blocks on various roads to distract the military.

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Mexican Fiesta 2010 Had At Least 80,000 in Attendance, A Record In Milwaukee

Two Milwaukee officers reported injured while trying to stop a fight

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 30, 2010

Milwaukee, Wisconsin - On Sunday, Mexican Fiesta organizers before 8:00 p.m.estimated the three day festival attendance could reach more than 80,000 by midnight. The main attraction was Banda El Recodo de Don Cruz Lizarraga who played at the Miller Stage. The area was packed, but people attending soon became disappointed that the sound system was so low you couldn't even make it out in the far East of the area or sides. The music from the Harley-Davidson spilled over from the South end to the Miller Stage area that's how low the equipment sounded. The El Rey and Harley-Davidson stages sounded the best for the three days, sound technicians had the music blasting and the way it should sound to get people motivated and dancing, just like Summerfest. One thing about Mexicans and Mexican-Americans, especially with Tejano roots that everyone should know, they love to dance and need space!
J.B and the Barron band from Dallas, Texas was a big hit, along with Lobo IV and others.
Around the festival, police had an altercation just outside the gates when two alleged rival gangs began fighting and decided to kick-off a police officer from his/her horse around 7:00 p.m., according to witnesses. Police and security were able to take control of the area. No official report has been released concerning the incident or how many people were actually arrested and for what offense.
After 10:30 p.m., police and security could be seen escorting at least 8 men to a secure area for processing. All of the men were handcuffed. The men were involved in a fight inside Mexican Fiesta where two police officers were reported injured while trying to stop the altercation. Most of the men were cited for disorderly conduct and released. A 29-year-old man was arrested and charged with battery to an officer in connection with the incident. One officer was punched in the face and another might have suffered a broken or fractured finger. The officers were hospitalized for the minor injuries and later released.
People along the area cheered police and security for ejecting the trouble makers from the fest area. Another busy day for Mexican Fiesta security and police did a good job in keeping the thousands of people safe.
This will probably be a successful year for Mexican Fiesta and organizers from the Wisconsin Hispanic Scholarship Foundation (WHSF) who say, most of the profits go for scholarships. 
Since WHSF took over the festival in 1987, they have given out more than $800,000 in scholarships to students to help pay for college tuition.
No information has been provided by WHSF to confirm, if undocumented students qualify to receive scholarships as well. Another question festivalgoers were asking, why the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement doesn't have a booth at Mexican Fiesta to recruit for job openings and to provide information about citizenship and other related topics affecting the Latino community.

Related article:

Brawl Instigated By False Rumors That Ayala Cancelled Mexican Fiesta Appearance In Milwaukee http://bit.ly/duWgXM

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Brawl Instigated By False Rumors That Ayala Cancelled Mexican Fiesta Appearance In Milwaukee

Photos by HNG

Rumors and tempers flare at Mexican Fiesta 2010 on Saturday night

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 28, 2010
Updated

Milwaukee - On Saturday, a brawl between numerous men ignited a half hour before Ramon Ayala would appear at the Harley-Davidson stage at the Mexican Fiesta, inside the Henry Maier Festival Park (Summerfest grounds). Security personnel from the Latino Peace Officer Association (LPOA) and Summerfest security immediately neutralized and controlled the area. Two suspects were detained and escorted to a secure area. One of the LPOA security officers was yelling "get him off me" as he moved forward and the men hung on him.
LPOA officers and security are highly trained to handle any situation at the festival and most of them are law enforcement officers, according to an off-duty Milwaukee Police Captain enjoying the fest.
A rumor began circulating that Ayala had cancelled, but he arrived along with his band.
Mexican Fiesta which runs until Sunday rarely cancels an act and has gained the reputation as the largest three day Mexican festival in the Midwest. Ayala appeared after 9:00 p.m. and played until 10:30 p.m.
No one else was reported injured, but expensive beers began flying all over the North-West Harley-Davidson stage area.
Throughout the night, Milwaukee Police, Summerfest and LPOA security had a busy night and took numerous people into custody for various offenses. By the Miller stage at least three women and several men were handcuffed and escorted to a processing holding area. One person had to be taken out by a portable emergency vehicle unit.
About 11:30 p.m., three police squads and a prisoner transport van had their emergency lights on to calm and regulate traffic and people leaving the festival from the midgate on Chicago Street to beat the crowds exiting after midnight. No major injuries were reported by police or Mexican Fiesta officials.
A stabbing was reported by police at the 600 E. Chicago Street near Mexican Fiesta. A 14-year-old male teenager was stabbed after an altercation with a group of teenagers. He is expected to survive and is in stable condition. Police are looking for the suspects. Police could not confirm, if the victim was leaving or heading to Mexican Fiesta Saturday night.

Mexican Fiesta 2010 new logo.

This year Mexican Fiesta introduced their new logo depicting Summerfest's smiling face, but adding Mexican flavour by having two green avocato halfs as eyes and a red jalapeño chile pepper as the smile. Mexican Fiesta has attracted the largest attendence on a Saturday with Ramon Ayala, David Lee Garza Reunion with Jay Perez, Ram Herrera, and Marcos Orozco, Sonora Dinamita Internacional and Sonora Santanera USA. An added attraction this year were Danzoneros por siempre A.C.
Last Friday, Prince Joyce and Montez de Durango attracted a large attendence, especially when the weekend weather forecast is sunny and in the mild 80's degrees.
People from Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Texas, Indiana, Michigan, Mexico and from around Wisconsin make their into Mexican Fiesta very year as a tradition to meet up with maturing friends and family members.
There was an array of traditional Mexican food, entertainment, Mexican artisians and crafts from Mexico.
In brief history: Mexican Fiesta was the spin-off of Fiesta Mexicana, which began as a South side street festival in the early 1970's to help generate scholarships funds to help Latinos/as pay for college tuition. Fiesta Mexicana had been run by several groups, the first was Latin American Union for Civil Rights, second by a local LULAC Chapter and then finally taken over by the Wisconsin Hispanic Scholarship Foundation, Inc. (WHSF), who opened a new facility this year at 2997 S. 20th Street. WHSF has provided more than $800,000 in scholarships to students attending college, since it took over Mexican Fiesta in 1987.
Many of the original volunteers and organizers continue to participate in organizing today's Mexican Fiesta.
It was created by Latino community educational activists who were originally involved in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) takeover of Chapman Hall and other parts of the university on August 27, 1970. That year, there were only 14 Hispanic students attending the university compared to 25,000 White students. Latinos wanted equal access to higher education.
"In Milwaukee many barriers existed blocking their paths to higher education. Their language and cultural distinctness were frowned upon, and they had limited access to information and few professional role models. Discriminatory treatment was the norm," cited from Myriad Magazine UWM 1990.
Latinos succeeded in gaining access to UWM and the Spanish Speaking Outreach Institute (SSOI) was created in 1970. Then it was renamed to the Roberto Hernandez Center in 1996. The SSOI was established to help recruit, counsel and advice and to retain enrollment of students at UWM.
Today, the 40th Anniversary Committee and members of the Latino community will be celebrating the 40th Anniversity of the UWM takeover and 40 years of Latino student and community activism, including their accomplishment to providing the opportunity and access to higher education for Latinos. A banquet and celebration will be held on September 18, 2010 at the UWM Student Union Ballroom, 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The dance is free and opened to students and community from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. For more information, to reserve a table call 414-229-6156 or visit website www4.uwm.edu/rhc/news/.

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Allen Bradley Four Face Clock Stops

August 28, 2010

Milwaukee, WI (HNNUSA) - On Saturday afternoon, H. Nelson Goodson couldn't actually get the right time from the Allen Bradley Clock at the 100 of W. Scott St. cuz the clock apparently stopped at 6:51 in an unusual breakdown. But Goodson finally got the right time and it was 5:15 p.m. The four face clock is the largest in the Midwest and holds its record for being one of the largest for a four face clock.

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Asian Street Festival 2010 On National Avenue In Milwaukee's South Side

Photos: HNG

Milwaukee K-9 police crime fighting dog  McGruff at Asian Fest

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 28, 2010

Milwaukee - On Saturday, the 4rd Annual Asian Street Festival was held along the 3600 block of W. National Ave. In Milwaukee's South side. The one day late August summer festival is sponsorded by Silver City Main Street organization, volunteers, and Asian and non-Asian businesses along the strip.
The began at 10:00 a.m. and went until 6:00 p.m.
Milwaukee Police Officer Jesus Gloria and Auxiliary Officer Clarence Lorenz as crime fighting dog McGruff gave out complimentary badges and sport cards to children and the festivalgoers. McGruff became so popular at the fest that everyone with a camera took time to pose with both Officer Gloria and McGruff.

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Milwaukee Brewer Pitcher Gallardo Robbed At Gun Point In the South Side

Photo: ESPN

Gallardo and Sanchez were robbed by lone man with a gun

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 28, 2010

Milwaukee - On Friday, police confirmed that Yovani Gallardo, 24, Milwaukee Brewer star pitcher and Alex Sanchez, Brewers Clubhouse attendant were robbed while leaving Jalisco's Restaurant at the 1000 block of S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive. Both Gallardo and Sanchez were heading to the adjacent parking lot around 2:30 a.m. when a man approached them and pulled out a handgun. The suspect demanded money and jewelry from the two victims.
Before leaving with the money and jewelry, the suspect hit Sanchez in the head with the weapon. He was not seriously injured, but received a bump, according to police. 
Later on Friday afternoon, Gallardo originally from Michoacan, Mexico made a statement. "It was a scary moment for me and Alex, a tough situation," Gallardo said. "Things like that happen in every city, everywhere you go, and it's unfortunate that happened to me and him. It was one of those random things. I've never had a problem like this before. We're all very thankful.
"We were just going ... getting a bite to eat before heading home. I'm trying to stay out of trouble, and unfortunately, trouble finds us. Nobody wa seriously hurt. We're all OK. Both of us are fine. That was the main thing as far as the incident last night."
Police are looking for the suspect.

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Zetas Implicated In 72 homicides Of Illegal Latin American Immigrants In Tamaulipas Mexico

Luis Freddy Lara Pomavilla, 18, from Ecuador is the one of two survivors

Photo: Narco Trafico en Mexico

Bodies of 72 illegal Latin Americans from Ecuador, Salvador, Honduras and Brazil found inside Zeta ranch warehouse

Photo: Narco News

Mexican Marines discovered what might be the largest massacre yet in the Mexican drug cartel war, they found 72 unburied bodies at a Zeta ranch property.

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 26, 2010

San Fernando, Tamaulipas, Mexico - On Wednesday, the state Attorney General's Office (PGR) at the Secretary of Government (Segob) facility announced during a press conference that on Monday, Mexican federal Marines at a local check point near San Fernando were alerted by an injured victim of a possible mass murdering and body dumping ground. The injured man identified as Luis Freddy Lara Pomavilla, 18, from Ecuador had escaped from a nearby Zeta Cartel occupied ranch and made his way at about 7:00 a.m. to a military outpost.
The Marines called for backup and several military helicopters were dispatched to the area. One helicopter crew was able to locate the Zeta ranch, when they were shot at. When Marines got closer to the area, they were fired upon as well by Zeta members guarding the ranch. Three alleged Zeta members were reported killed and one Marine.
One Zeta teenager from Veracruz was captured and several others escaped in vehicles. The teenager was taken to the Public Ministry Office for interrogation and will be turned over to the PGR for further questioning.
On Tuesday about 5:00 p.m., Marines discovered 58 male bodies and 14 female bodies dumped inside a ranch warehouse. The Marines went back to the area to confirm what the victim had told authorities, that more than 70 bodies were at the ranch, said José Luis Vergara from the Secretary of Marines.
The federal and state Attorney's General Offices are jointly investigating the gruesome find, according to Ricardo Najéra Herrera, spokesperson for the federal PGR.
The preliminary investigation, Alejandro Poiré Romero, spokesperson of National Security said, the Ecuadorian victim who alerted Marines of the mass murder told them the victims were illegal Latin American immigrants from Honduras, Ecuador, Salvador and Brazil that were travelling to the U.S. when the Zetas kidnapped them or were part of a human trafficking smuggling operation gone bad.
Pomavilla is one of two live witnesses who remained in federal protection, he told mexican authorities that another man from Honduras had also survived. Federal police confirmed the second survivor had been taken into protective custody and the man from Honduras has been providing information in relation to the massacre.
Pomavilla said, he was offered $1,000 U.S. dollars every two weeks, if he became a paid Zeta assassin. The other victims were offered the same and when the victims rejected the offer, the Zetas began to fatally shoot them.
Other reports state, the victims might have refused to pay for their release or wouldn't become drug smugglers and transport drugs into the U.S.
Authorities recovered weapons and vehicles cloned as federal Secretary of National Defense (Sedena) vehicles with fake government license plates.
On Thursday, diplomats from El Salvador, Honduras, Ecuador and Brazil began to arrive in Tamaulipas to begin the process of identifying the victims. So far, four of the victims were identified as Bazilian Citizens, according to Marcio Lage, Brazil Consul General in Mexico.  16 bodies of the victims have been identified as Honduras Citizens, according to authorities.
The Mexican government has launched a massive military operation to locate the alleged Zetas responsible for the massacre in the San Fernando and nearby municipalities in Tamaulipas, according to Sedena.
The Mexican government earlier in the year launched emergency cellular number 088 nationally, anyone can report highway emergencies, suspected drug cartel road blocks, kidnappings, suspected contraband and transportation of drugs and other crimes. The emergency number could be used free of charge and works with local Mexican networks and U.S.A. cell phones connected to the network in Mexico as another way to fight crime and provide emergency services where needed.

Spanish news report of gruesome discovery: http://bit.ly/diB1q9

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Two Suspects Arrested A Block From Where They Beat And Robbed A Woman

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 25, 2010

Milwaukee - On Tuesday, police apprehended two suspects shortly after committing a strong arm robbery where a woman was beaten. A 16-year-old boy and a 21-year-old man tried to rob a woman outside taking a break about 11:15 a.m. from the Clinica Latina visit at the 1200 block of S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive.
The two suspects tried to take the woman's purse by beating and kicking her several times, according to witnesses. They then fled to the 1200 block of S. 15th Place and entered a home where they were staying.
Witnesses were able to tell police where the suspects ran too. One of the suspects was arrested by a female bicycle police patrol officer in the back of the home, while he tried to flee from police.
Police were able to take both suspects into custody. Investigators also recovered a shotgun and a .45 Cal. handgun from inside the residence.
Police also found a UPS box that was reported stolen earlier from a United Parcel Service delivery truck.

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Immigrant Ordered To Depart Voluntarily By September To Peru, Despite Open Federal Immigration Appeal Cases

Moisés Roger Mory-Lamas

Photo: The Militant

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to deport undocument immigrant despite open federal immigration appeal case, a petition for residency and work authorization until 2011

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 24, 2010

West New York, New Jersey - On Monday, ICE agents arrested Moisés Roger Mory-Lamas, 53, at about 2:00 p.m. when he failed to buy an airline ticket for voluntary departure. Mory-Lamas was taken to the Essex County Correctional Facility, 354 Doremus Avenue in Newark for deportation, despite pending immigration appeal cases. His arrest was brought upon by alleged dubious actions by ICE agents that transpired last week. Mory-Lamas is currently being kept in isolation by ICE officials and not allowed media reporters to interview him or even legal representation, according to sources at the Essex County Jail facility.
Last Thursday, three federal agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took Peruvian citizen Mory-Lamas to the Peru Consulate in Paterson from an ICE office he was reporting as required, so Consul Alejandro Beoutis could approve his deportation. Mory-Lamas alleged, Consul Beoutis told him he had to surrender his Peruvian passport to ICE, or face legal authorization for ICE to deport him anyway from the Peru government, if he wouldn't comply. He said, that ICE agents confiscated his Peruvian passport inside the Peru Consulate, while Consul Beoutis looked on.
A Peruvian official letter (an official Act) in Spanish states, Mory-Lamas had agreed to turn over his Peruvian passport to ICE and will have to depart voluntarily on September 18. But Mory-Lamas alleges, he was given no alternative by Peruvian Consul Beoutis and was forced to accept voluntary departure.
Mory-Lamas says, Peruvian Consul Beoutis, three ICE agents identified as Juan Mezarina, Oscar Torres and James Laforge, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Department (USDHS) are violating his rights, under immigration law and the U.S. Constitution.
By USICE agents to enter a foreign consulate for the purpose to force (coerce) detainee or immigrant to surrender his/her passport of a foreign country, in this case Peru is questionable, if not illegal.
A Peruvian citizen has a right to enter a Peruvian Consulate for official purposes, but with U.S. agents as escorts is illegal, they have no legal authority, jurisdiction, or diplomatic status to sign such an Act inside the Consulate, considered foreign soil.
The agents whose signatures with their official capacity appears on the Act were inside the Peru Consulate as U.S. officials representing the U.S. government when in fact, they have no legal status to do so and it seems their agreement by legal standards is voided.
The ICE agents act alone inside the Peru Consulate shows how questionable and extreme their activities and ICE policies are viewed in deportation proceedings by immigration rights activists in the U.S.
Mory-Lamas has been challenging his deportation for 11 years and has become one of longest appeal immigration cases in 15 years. Mory-Lamas case is proof how disfunctional and probable illegal acts committed by federal agencies under former President George W. Bush and current President Barack H. Obama and U.S. Attorney General Eric Himpton Holder Jr.
He has spend at least five years in immigration detention, until he was released in early 2009.  
Mory-Lamas was convicted of possession of drugs, a minor state offense. He pleaded no-contest in 1986, and his lawyer did not advice Mory-Lamas of the consequences and possible deportation. Mory-Lamas served 6 months in jail and was fined $30.00 for the conviction.
He began his appeal in 1999, served one year in '99 and then served four years from 2004 and was finally released in January 2009. Since then, Mory-Lamas was put on an electronic device, had to report to an ICE officer at least twice a week, until he finally was granted a work permit until 2011. 
Ruth Mory a U.S. Citizen, his wife had petition for Mory-Lamas residency in 2004, under the 1986 amnesty Northwest Immigration Projects.
Today, Mory-Lamas has a pending habeas corpus appeal with federal Judge Dennis Cavanaugh in the district of Newark.
Mory-Lamas has a 17-year-old daughter who is a U.S. Citizen.  
Mory-Lamas falls under several circumstances that ICE would not deport an immigrant due to extraordinary circumstances (heartship).
1. He is the main bread winning for his family. His wife Ruth is very ill and has mounting medical bills. If he is deported, his family would have to seek other means of support, most likely state and federal government assistance.
2. He is not a gang member or is affiliated with any criminal organization.
3. His conviction is a minor offense in the State of New Jersey and not considered a federal offense.
4. His wife Ruth had petition for his residency in 2004.
5. His right to appeal, if his lawyer failed to advice him of the consequences it could have on his immigration status by pleading no contest to a minor offense. In this case, the lawyer in 1986 failed to advice him and Mory-Lamas sued. Case still unresolved.
However, in Mory-Lamas immigration case he has been excluded by ICE officials to allow him to stay in the U.S.
The Peruvian Consulate in Paterson, ICE, USDOJ and USDHS have not released any statements about Mory-Lamas final plight.

Copy of official Act in Spanish by the Peru Consulate, and Consul Alejandro Beoutis in Paterson, identifying ICE agents with their signatures, concerning Moisés Roger Mory-Lamas departure from the U.S. (Click on photo to enlarge)

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Gigantic Ram-air Kites Worth Thousands Adorned Milwaukee's Skyline

Photos: HNG

Free event and parking for the family for September 11-12 Kite event at lakefront Veterans Park

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 22, 2010

Milwaukee, WI - Giant Ram-air kites flew over Veterans Park, the minimum kite wind lift needed for air suspension is about 8 miles per hour, according to Daniel Jones, kite attendent.
Jones says on a windy day, it takes about more than four people to bring down the red Octopus one. But on a calm day, Jones usually brings them down by himself.
Sunday's kite displayed sponsored by Gift of Wings, 1300 North Lincoln Memorial Drive, and is promoting the Kite festival event for September 11-12, at lakefront.
The kites are made by Peter Lynn, a New Zealand company.
The blue Octopus kite costs $4,000, red Octopus $6,000 and the Manta Ray kite is worth $4,200.
The DON JACOBS TOYOTA FRANK MOTS INT'L KITE FESTIVAL, Veterans Park on Milwaukee's Lakefront, Sat & Sun, Sept 11th and 12th. This is a FREE event with FREE parking. You don't want to miss this one!!! Chicago Fire Kite Team, IQUAD, Yves Laforest, Pegasus, and lots more.

Ram-air kite Red Octopus worth a wopping $6,000.

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11 Arrested In Connection With Santiago's Mayor Death In Nuevo León

Municipal police officers arrested in Santiago's mayor death (EFE)

Santiago Mayor Edelmiro Cavazos Leal killed by police and drug cartel members

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 20, 2010

Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico - On Friday, Alejandro Garza-Garza, the state Attorney General announced during a press conference that 6 municipal police officers, 4 paid assassins and the personal bodyguard for Santiago Mayor Edelmiro Cavazos Leal, 38, have been arrested.
Santiago municipal police officers arrested were identified as Homero López-Silva, Mónica Martínez-Téllez, Antonio Rodríguez-Gallardo, Mauricio Mallorga-Caballero and José Alberto Rodríguez-Rodríguez, Leal's bodyguard, including José Javier García-Martínez, transit officer.
The four paid drug cartel assassins were identified as Roberto Ramírez-Florián, 24, José Dolores Ruiz-Plancarte, 27, Víctor Hugo Moreno-Mendoza, 29, and Francisco Balde Oliva, 25.
The suspects were taken into custody and had confessed to have been involved with last Sunday's kidnapping and murder of Mayor Leal. Leal was kidnapped from his residence shortly after making a public appearance, according to Garza-Garza. The state attorney general did not identified the drug cartel involved, but the Zeta and Gulf Drug Cartels have been feuding for control of the multi-billion drug smuggling bordertown routes in the region since, January.
Leal's bodyguard, Rodríguez-Rodríguez a municipal police officer himself was released by kidnappers and reported Mayor Leal's kidnapping. He was accused of participating in the kidnapping.
Garza-Garza said, four of the police officers served a lookouts along the national highway to alert the drug cartel assassins, if any federal and military police was heading into Santiago. The only woman implicated in the murder was Martínez-Téllez who lost her husband a police officer about a year ago and Mayor Leal helped her get compensated for his death. Leal even gave her a job as a Santiago municipal police officer to help her get by and she betrayed him by getting involved in his murder, according to Garza-Garza, Nuevo León Attorney General.
Authorities are looking for an additional 16 suspects who eluded police capture. Six suspects, including a woman were introduced to the media.

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Milwaukee Officials Collecting Data Of Flooded Basements Used As Sleeping Spaces For FEMA Appeal To Get Individual Assistance

Photo: July damaged flood home at N. 19th Place, residence of Emantha Peavey

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 20, 2010

Milwaukee, WI - Governor Jim Doyle and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett are appealing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denial of individual assistance. FEMA declared it will provide assistance for damaged schools and public properties, but did not grant assistance for individual assistance. Milwaukee city officials are partnering with non-profits, community groups and neighborhood associations in doing a survey of basements used as sleeping spaces. FEMA denied individual assistance to the July 22, severe flash flood hit North central Milwaukee neighborhood areas. They denied assistance because basements are not considered sleeping spaces and they only provide aid for first floor flood damage, according to Mayor Barrett.
The city needs to get appropriate data to show that basements were used as sleeping spaces. No one conducting this survey will enter your home, but an official from FEMA may have to enter your home to vertify damage at a later date. Since, your signature on the survey serves as an affidavit of damage.
City officials began collecting data on Friday at the City Hall rotunda (200 E. Wells St.) from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday, August 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. The survey data will show FEMA during the appeal process that individual damaged basements were used as sleeping spaces.
About 95% of homes in the City of Milwaukee have basements, where the water heater, washers and dryer appliances and heating systems are installed. Compared to Southern states and cities who don't have basements in homes.
For more information about the FEMA survey, call you alderman at 414-286-2221.

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158 Arrested In Utah's Largest Ever ICE-led Gang Enforcement Action

Authorities credit new multi-agency task force for record arrests

August 19, 2010

Salt Lake City, Utah (HNNUSA) - On Thursday, ICE announced that a total of 158 gang members and individuals with gang ties, including many with prior criminal records, are facing new criminal charges or deportation following a four-month, multi-agency anti-gang surge spearheaded by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) that represents the largest operation of its kind ever carried out in the state of Utah.
The arrests are the result of a coordinated effort by the new ICE-HSI led Operation Community Shield Task Force (OCSTF) made up of personnel from ICE and five local law enforcement agencies, including the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force, and the police departments of South Salt Lake, Midvale, Ogden and St. George. Utah is one of the first ICE-HSI offices in the nation to establish an OCSTF, along with first ICE-HSI offices in the nation to establish an OCSTF, along with Dallas, Texas; St. Paul, Minn.; and Charlotte, N.C. The aim of the task forces is to leverage ICE's global reach and broad legal authorities with the unique capabilities of other law enforcement agencies to combat the growth and proliferation of transnational criminal street gangs.
The operation involved criminal and administrative immigration arrests in 23 communities statewide, as well as in neighboring West Wendover, Nev.
Of the gang members and gang associates arrested during the enforcement action, 93 are facing prosecution on federal and state criminal charges ranging from solicitation to commit aggravated murder and forcible sexual abuse to drug and firearms violations and re-entry after deportation. A re-entry conviction is a felony that carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Individuals currently facing state charges will be referred for federal immigration charges once the state charges are resolved.
Among the gang members facing federal criminal charges is a 28-year old undocumented member of the Surenos-Alley Boys street gang who was previously deported to Mexico in March 2006. Jose Daniel Gil-Velasco was taken into custody by ICE-HSI agents in Provo, Utah, on Aug. 6. Gil-Velasco has a lengthy criminal record, including prior convictions for aggravated assault (two counts), carrying a concealed dangerous weapon and attempted theft. Gil-Velasco is charged federally with re-entry after deportation.
Also facing re-entry after deportation charges is Juan Menchaca-Poban, 26, a member of the Toonersville Rifa 13 street gang, whose criminal history includes prior arrests for retail theft and drug possession, as well as a felony conviction for distributing a controlled substance. Menchaca-Poban was taken into custody by the Salt Lake Metro Gang Unit and ICE-HSI agents in Salt Lake City on June 3. At the time of his arrest, Menchaca-Poban was wanted on an outstanding state criminal warrant for narcotics distribution. Upon completion of his state sentence, Menchaca-Poban will be presented for federal prosecution for felony re-entry after deportation.
Of the 158 gang members and gang associates arrested during the operation, 125 are foreign nationals from the following five countries Argentina, El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico and Peru. The group includes 31 individuals who have been previously deported from the United States. The foreign nationals who are not being prosecuted on criminal charges are being processed for removal. A number of them have already been deported to their native countries.
The enforcement action focused on individuals with ties to more than 50 street gangs in four of the state's major metropolitan areas: Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden and St. George. The operation commenced in the Salt Lake City area in early April and culminated last week with arrests in and around Provo, Utah.
In addition to the members of the Community Shield Task Force numerous other federal, state and local law enforcement agencies assisted with the operation. Those agencies include: the U.S. Marshals Service; the Utah Highway Patrol; Utah Adult Probation and Parole; the Washington County Drug and Gang Task Force; the Salt Lake Metro Gang Task Force; the sheriffs' offices in Summit, Cache, Washington and Iron counties; and the police departments in Brigham City, Logan City Tremonton, Santa Clara, Hurricane, Ivins, La Verkin, Orem, Cedar City and Wendover, Nev.

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Mexican Municipal Mayor Of Santiago In Nuevo León Mexico Found Dead After Being Kidnapped

Mayor Edelmiro Cavazos Leal

Photo: Narco Trafico en Mexico

Members of a drug cartel had threaten Mayor Leal shortly after being elected to office

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 19, 2010

Santiago, Nuevo León, Mexico - Federal authorities in Nuevo León confirmed that the body of Edelmiro Cavazos Leal, 38, Mayor of Santiago had been found after he was reported kidnapped. The body was discovered on Wednesday by several motorcycle riders near highway kilometer 6.9 from Santiago connecting to Cola de Caballo.
On Sunday night, Leal and a bodyguard were kidnapped at his residence by a group of men in uniforms pretending to be judicial federal police, a unit deactivated about nine years ago, according to the state Mexican Atttorney General Alejandro Garza-Garza.
Leal's bodyguard was released on early Monday by his kidnappers and he was able to alert federal police of Leal's kidnapping.
When Leal was elected to office, he was approached and threaten by members of a drug cartel in the area and adviced to work with them and keep quiet, according to Mauricio Fernández Garza, Mayor of San Pedro Garza García in Nuevo León. Mayor Garza notified federal authorities, that Leal had told him of the pending threat and he didn't know, if Leal had contacted the military about the incident with the drug cartel or had asked for protection.
President Felipe Calderón expressed his condolences to Leal's family and vowed to bring the killers and kidnappers to justice. 
Leal was a member of the National Action Political party (PAN).

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USDOJ Gives Maricopa County Sheriff's Department Until Next Tuesday To Comply With Releasing Documents In Civil Rights Violation Probe

Maricopa Sheriff Joe Arpaio

DOJ could sue Sheriff Arpaio and Maricopa County to get files, and access to sheriff's staff and county jail

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 19, 2010

Phoenix, AZ - On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) decided to give another week for Maricopa County Sheriff Arpaio to release the remaining documents to the feds, in the year long civil rights violation probe. The deadline for the documents was Tuesday and Arpaio failed to provide the remaining files to the DOJ.
The DOJ vowed to sue the Maricopa Sheriff's Department, if Arpaio fails to comply again. The sheriff's department will be sued "to compel access to the requested documents, facilities and personnel," Thomas E. Perez, U.S. Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division said. 
In early August, the DOJ notified Sheriff Arpaio that he had failed to comply with a federal investigation into the department's civil rights violation probe. Since March 2009, the Maricopa Sheriff's Department has been under a federal investigation for "allegations of unlawful searches and seizures, discriminatory police conduct, and failure to provide basic services to individuals with limited English proficiency," according to DOJ records.
The DOJ requested at least 51 files and Sheriff Arpaio had only comply in releasing few documents. 
The Maricopa County Board contacted the DOJ and committed that they would seek the files from Arpaio, even if they had to subpoena them for the feds.
In 2010, the county budget included about $113 million in federal funds allocated to various departments and Supervisors were worried the feds might stop funding the county, if Arpaio doesn't comply.
Sheriff Arpaio and the sheriff's department have until next Tuesday to release the documents or get sued by the feds.

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Milwaukee Homeless Man Alleges South Side Shelter Wanted Access To His Wisconsin Quest Card

Photo: DHS

More than 200,000 people in Milwaukee use Wisconsin Quest Cards

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 18, 2010

Milwaukee, WI - A 53-year-old homeless man alleged and felt victimized at the South side Milwaukee Victory Church shelter, at the 2100 block of W. National Ave. Staff wanted 20% of income plus access to his Wisconsin Quest Card (WQC) to share allocated funds for food with the shelter and other temperary tenants.
Even a staff member went through his wallet to make sure to see, if he had the card, according to the 53-year-old man. The man was offered a space to stay at the shelter for at least 30 days, but after experiencing the questionable request to gain access to his WQC, he got his wallet back and left the shelter.
WQC staff could not be reached for comment, concerning certain shelter rules and sharing of WQC allocated credit funds with other people. WQC is individually approved by a state social worker who determines eligibility by individuals earned income, but by state law only the person holding the card can access to purchase eligible foods by entering a Personal Identification Number (pin number).
The Wisconsin State Department of Health Services (DHS) provides nutrition assistance to families and individuals through FoodShare, and to women and children through the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. 
FoodShare benefits (funds) are loaded onto a Quest Card monthly, which is used like a debit card at participating supermarkets and retailers. FoodShare funds can be used to purchase breads and cereals, produce, meats poultry, fish, and dairy products. You can even use your FoodShare dollars to buy seeds and plants to grow food for your family, according to DHS.

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Feds Seek Support To Implement National Use Of Biometric Fingerprinting To Identify Illegal Aliens

Photo: FBI card Ameritekid

"Sheriff departments not activated by Secure Communities voluntary program, but have other partnerships or agreements with ICE to hold illegal detainees, are obligated by federal law to automatically release information to ICE of illegal aliens processed in county jails during custody."

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 18, 2010

Washington, D.C. - Republicans in Congress are considering a campaign to create legislation to make it mandatory for law enforcement facilities and county jails that process by fingerprinting suspects in custody to share information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for illegal alien identification. Today, sheriff departments who operate county jails have booked and processed suspects in custody for alleged domestic, minor or major offense. The suspects get fingerprinted, especially when they have yet to be convicted of a crime. Their fingerprints are entered and shared with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for criminal history information against the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS).  
A minority of Republicans in Congress would like to make sure the fingerprinting sharing becomes a national process and is extended to include identifying non-violent and non-criminal illegal aliens as well for removal. Republicans want the fingerprinting information shared nationally by both the FBI along with the biometrics-based immigration records in the Department of Homeland Security's Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT).
Currently, this type of FBI and DHS fingerprinting sharing information is done voluntarily and with Secure Communities Program partnerships forged between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. 
Sheriff departments not activated by Secure Communities voluntary program, but have other partnerships or agreements with ICE to hold illegal detainees, are obligated by federal law to automatically release information to ICE of illegal aliens processed in county jails during custody.
The Secure Communities Program is being used in large metropolitan areas where a large concentration of Hispanics reside. In California, 35 counties have been activated including Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego. In the Mid-West, Illinois has at least 5 counties activated, they are Dupage, Kane, Lake, Madison, St. Clair, Will and Winnebago counties. Wisconsin, Minnesota, Indiana, and Iowa are not activated, but other partnerships and agreements between county sheriff department's and ICE allows information of illegal aliens processed through custody made available to ICE for deportation hold and removal.
On Tuesday, ICE announced through a press release that it began using a new biometric information-sharing capability in five more Texas counties - Borden, Gaines, Mitchell, Scurry and Sterling counties - that helps federal immigration officials identify aliens, both lawfully and unlawfully present in the United States, who are booked into local law enforcement's custody for a crime. This capability is part of Secure Communities - ICE's comprehensive strategy to improve and modernize the identification and removal of criminal aliens from the United States.
Previously, fingerprint-based biometric records were taken of individuals charged with a crime and booked into custody and checked for criminal history information against the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS). Now, through enhanced information sharing between DOJ and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), fingerprint information submitted through the state to the FBI will be automatically checked against both the FBI criminal history records in IAFIS and the biometrics-based immigration records in DHS's Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT).
If fingerprints match those of someone in DHS's biometric system, the new automated process notifies ICE. ICE evaluates each case to determine the individual's immigration status and takes appropriate enforcement action. This includes aliens who are in lawful status and those who are present without lawful authority. Once identified through fingerprint matching, ICE will respond with a priority placed on aliens convicted of the most serious offenses first-such as those with convictions for major drug offenses, murder, rape and kidnapping.
"The Secure Communities strategy provides ICE with an effective tool to dentify criminal aliens in local custody," said Secure Communities Executive Director David Venturella. "Enhancing public safety is at the core of ICE's mission. Our goal is to use biometric information sharing to remove criminal aliens, preventing them from being released back into the community, with little or no additional burden on our law enforcement partners."
With the expansion of the biometric information sharing capability to these 5 Texas counties, ICE is now using it in 193 Texas jurisdictions, Across the country, ICE is using this capability in 553 jurisdictions in 29 states. ICE plans to be able to respond to leads generated through the biometric information sharing capability nationwide by 2013.
Since ICE began using this enhanced information sharing capability in October 2008, immigration officers have removed from the United States more than 35,000 illegal aliens, including 10,800 criminal aliens convicted of Level 1 crimes such as murder, rape and kidnapping. Additionally, ICE has removed more than 27,000 criminal aliens convicted of Level 2 and 3 crimes including burglary and serious property crimes, which account for the majority of crimes committed by aliens. ICE does not regard aliens charged with, but not yet convicted of crimes, as "criminal aliens. Instead, a "criminal alien" is an alien convicted of a crime. In accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act, ICE continues to take action on aliens subject to removal as resources permit.
The IDENT system is maintained by DHS's US-VISIT program and IAFIS is maintained by the FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS).
"US-VISIT is proud to support ICE, helping provide decision makers with comprehensive, reliable information when and where they need it," said US-VISIT Director Robert Mocny. "By enhancing the interoperability of DHS's and the FBI's biometric systems, we are able to give federal, state DHS's and the FBI's biometric systems, we are able to give federal, state and local decision makers information that helps them better protect our communities and our nation."
"Under this plan, ICE will be utilizing FBI system enhancements that allow improved information sharing at the state and local law enforcement level based on positive identification of incarcerated criminal aliens," said Daniel D. Roberts, assistant director of the FBI's CJIS Division. "Additionally, ICE and the FBI are working together to take advantage of the strong relationships already forged between the FBI and state and local law enforcement necessary to assist ICE in achieving ts goals."

To check if your jurisdiction is activated to share fingerprinting information with ICE (download PDF, includes 50 U.S. states) at link: http://bit.ly/c6CK91

Memorandum Of Agreement with States (PDF), link at: http://bit.ly/aqsdCD

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Feds Charged 12 Suspects For Growing 50,000 Marijuana Plants In Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Northeastern Wisconsin

Barnabe Nuñez-Guzman

Photo courtesy of Brown County Sheriff's Department

Most of the suspects are undocumented and a deportation hold was granted by a federal judge

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 16, 2010

Green Bay, WI - The U.S. Attorney's Office in Green Bay has charged 12 men in connection with growing more than 50,000 marijuana plants in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Last week, about 200 federal, state and local law enforcement agents, deputy sheriff's and officers raided 10 growing plots in the national forest. Each plant was valued between $2,000 to $6,000 dollars totaling between $100 to 300 million dollars, according to feds.
The plants were growing mostly in the Oconto and Menominee counties and the suspects lived around the cities of Shawano, Seymour, Mountain and Crivitz.
Oconto County Sheriff, Mike Jensen, said they also confiscated 300 pounds of processed marijuana and weapons, ammunition and a AK-47 rifle. The feds are investigating the suspects, to see if they had any possible connection to Mexican drug cartels.
The recent marijuana bust is connected to the September 29, seizure of 8,000 plants by feds and local authorities at the Navarino Wildlife Preserve in Shawano County.
Barnabe Nuñez-Guzman of Seymour was identified as the leader of the group arrested, according to the criminal complaint.
Federal prosecutors in Green Bay charged the following suspects, Salvador Montez-Canchola, Raul Juvenal Avila-Rodriguez, Jesus De La Torre-Avila, Javier Navarro-Zanagoza, Gustavo Barragon-Mendoza, Jorge Omar Perez-Hipolito, Genaro Avila-Rodriguez, Adalberto Valencia, Uriel Perez-Aljandres, Armando Adame-Alvarado, Bernabe Nuñez-Guzman and Jose Luis Sandoval-Mendoza with conspiracy to distribute and manufacturing more than 1,000 marijuana plants. Nuñez-Guzman is also facing possession with intent to distribute more than 100 marijuana plants. He owns a Green Bay restaurant and several other properties in the area.
Most of the suspects are undocumented and a federal judge put a deportation hold. Nine of the suspects were arrested in a Seymour residence, according to the criminal complaint.

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UW-Milwaukee Chancellor Santiago To Leave University In October

Chancellor Carlos E. Santiago resigns from UW-Milwaukee effective October 1st

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 16, 2010

Milwaukee - On Monday, Carlos E. Santiago, Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) announced his upcoming October 1st resignation to all the personnel at the university. Santiago says, he has accepted the position of CEO of the Hispanic College Fund in Washington D.C.
Santiago in his new position will focus in making college education accessible to Hispanic students in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Since, Santiago's resignation won't take effect until October, he will work for a smooth transition with the UW System Board President Kevin Reilly, according to Santiago's letter to his staff.
On July 1, 2004, Santiago became the first Hispanic chancellor of the University of Wisconsin– Milwaukee.

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Editorial: Mexican Consul In Chicago Verses Mexican Community Organizations

Editorial:

Community organizations, public elected officials and residents should dictate what is best for their own community and not the Mexican Consul in Chicago.

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 15, 2010

Chicago, IL - The current controversy over the exclusion of the Mexican Civic Society from the official Mexican Independence "El Grito" celebration by Mexican Consul Manuel Rodríguez Arriaga has sparked debate over the Consuls role in the Chicago Mexican community.
One thing for sure, the Consul represents the Mexican government and the legal document services it provides for its citizens in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, which are the three states assigned to the Consulate. As a Consul, Arriaga was appointed to reside and represent Mexico's commercial interests and give assistance to Mexico's citizens in Chicago. Both Arriaga and his staff are public servants, which are paid through taxes and other revenues generated by Mexican citizens in the U.S. and Mexico.
Arriaga seems to be mispresenting himself and is trying to create an image that indeed he is the leader of the Mexican community in the three state region. Arriaga is not a community leader, but a public servant appointed to serve the Mexican citizens seeking services from the Consulate.
The Mexican community in Chicago is well represented by its own elected public officials, numerous non-profit oranizations, including federations and other community groups and activists and ect. The debate over the Mexican Independence Bicentennial celebration and exclusion of the Mexican Civic Society by Consul Arriaga is setting precedence for community groups, residents and activists to challenge the Consuls role in the Mexican community.
Community organizations have had their own internal difficulties, as many groups have experienced their own setbacks and have succeeded in overcoming them. The differences have made the groups stronger and have learned to work with each other.
The Mexican community in Chicago and its elected public officials, and community based organizations should dictate what's best for them and their community.
Everyone should make sure that all are given the opportunity to be involved and participate within the community and not let individuals or entities to exclude or discriminate certain individuals and organizations as Consul Arriaga has done for the Mexican Independence Bicentennial Celebration in 2010.

Related article:

Breaking News: Second Protest At Mexican Consul In Chicago Over Bicentennial "El Grito" Ouster Of Mexican Civic Society http://bit.ly/9ESaRF

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Man Killed In Motorcycle Accident By Humboldt Park In Milwaukee Identified

Miguel A. Torres

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 13, 2010

Milwaukee - The 36-year-old motorcycle driver who died after crashing into a vehicle on August 1st has been identified as Miguel A. Torres. The accident occured shortly after 4:40 p.m. at the corner of S. Pine Ave. and the entrance of Humboldt Park on W. Oklahoma Ave.
Torres was driving East on Oklahoma Ave. recklessly and in an excessive speed when a woman driver who was turning South into Pine Ave. blocked his path.
On impact, the motorcycle front end was ripped apart. Torres was thrown and landed about three houses down the street, according to witnesses.
He suffered decapitation and lost a shoulder and an arm, according to friends who mourned his untimely death.

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Second Protest At Mexican Consul In Chicago Over Bicentennial "El Grito" Ouster Of Mexican Civic Society

Iris Ramos, 7, holds "Consul Go Home" poster

(L-R): Evelia Rodríguez interviewed by Zonia Lopez from Nfoque Latino WJTI 1460 AM radio in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

(left): Yvette Anna Soto, protest organizer interviewed by Chicago Tribune reporter

Gerardo Colchado from Greenbay, Wisconsin joins the protest. Photos by H.N.G.

The Mexican Civic Society Board decides to have the Mexican Independence Parade on September 11 at Columbus Drive, despite Mexican Consul Arriaga's decision to exclude organization from officially participating in El Grito event

By H. Nelson Goodson
August 13, 2010

Chicago, IL - On Friday, for the second time a group composed of Latinos and members of the Mexican community marched and protested in front of the Mexican Consulate, 204 S. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Yvette Anna Soto, the key organizer said, the group will continue to protest until the Mexican Civic Society of Illinois (MCS) is allowed to participate as Co-presenters of El Grito as Consul Manuel Rodríguez Arriaga had promised before last June.
The group is expected to protest in front of the Consulate every week until the day of El Grito, the next protest will be held on Friday, August 20, at 10:30 a.m., Soto confirmed.
Gerardo Colchado, 25, of Greenbay, Wisconsin happened to take his wife to get some legal documents at the Consulate, when he heard of the protest outside and decided to join in. The Consul should allow the MCS to participate, especially in a very important celebration as the Bicentennial, Colchado said. He grabbed a Mexican flag and stood in front of the Consulate as a protest to Arriaga's decision to exclude MCS from El Grito.
Other Mexican citizens, who were at the Consulate for services also joined the protest outside to send a strong message to Consul Arriaga that it's unfair and a discriminatory act to hand select who participates and not in the celebration, according to protesters.
Consul Arriaga has failed to meet with the protesters or even come out of the Consulate on August 3 and ask protesters why they were there protesting as required by Mexican law. An act by Arriaga that the protesters are not taking to lightly and alleged he has violated Mexican law and failed to work with the community at large.
Agustin Emilio Pradillo Cuevas, Social Communication Department Chief at the Mexican Consulate said, that last year the Mexican federal government suspended all funds for the bicentennial festivities for all Consulates. In Chicago, the Consulate formed a special commission from members of the community to organize and to help raise funds by seeking sponsorships for the Grito event. The Consulate is also involved in helping to acquire funds for the event and the funds will be deposited and managed by the Chicago Community Trust Fund. The Consulate will provide more information about the commission and event by early September. The commission could not be named or confirmed, if the Holiday Festive Committee (Comite Fiestas Patrias - CFP) was one of the same. Pradillo indicated they were different groups.
On late Thursday, Miguel Zuno, MCS Parade Chairman announced that the MCS Board decided to do their traditional Mexican Independence Parade on Columbus Drive on September 11, and the parade is scheduled to start at noon. Zuno said, the MCS had received an outpour of support from neighborhood businesses, corporations, the Hispanic and Mexican community in the Chicago area. For organizations, groups and corporations who would like to particpate and sponsor in this year's parade, they should contact info@SociedadCivicaMexicana.org, Zuno said. Deadline for parade registration to participate is September 3rd, according to MCS.
Evelia Rodríguez, MCS Media and Public Relations said, the Board decided to continue the parade this year after it was canceled, so we wouldn't lose our tradition in getting the city permit and being part of the Mexican Independence community celebration. In 2008 and 2009, the parade and El Grito were both done by MCS, Rodríguez said. 
In June, the MCS had canceled the parade and other activities in protest to Consul Arriaga's unexpected decision to exclude the 40-year-old non-profit organization from the Bicentennial Mexican Independence and El Grito celebration. El Grito is done after September 15 at midnight on September 16.
On September 16, 1810 is the day of the "Grito de Dolores" or Miguel Hidalgo's call to take up arms against the Spanish colonial government. The start of the Mexican Revolution is celebrated November 20, 1910, when Francisco "Pancho" Villa and Pascual Orozco led the first insurrectionist attack.
For the last three years the Mexican Consul had been reaching out to non-profits, museums, cultural arts institutes, universities and other entities, but failed to include a large portion of the Mexican community including MCS. MCS organizers say that they were part of the Bicenntennial Mexico's Independence celebration and Arriaga had included them, until early 2009 when they discovered Arriaga had excluded them from participating.
Within two consecuitive years, MCS had worked with the CFP before it was discovered they were left out of the Bicentennial planning and steering committee. The CFP committee was created in 2004 by the Mexican Consulate and today is controlled by Consul Arriaga.
Pradilla from the Consulate would not confirm, if CFP was also participating in the Bicentennial and would not identify the members of the commission spearheading El Grito event. He did mention they were members of various federations (organizations) in the Chicago area.
Arriaga has been in the center of controversy, since he arrived in Chicago. Especially, when organizations and members of the Mexican community have accused him of failing to work with Chicago Mexican community organizations. Arriaga would not comment on the current allegations and the Bicentennial controversy to exclude MCS from El Grito.
In 2008, 21 community organizations representing the Mexican community sent a letter to President Felipe Calderón complaining about Consul Arriaga, who took office in April 2007.
The complaint alleged Arriaga was arrogant, disputes, disrespected people, and ignored the needs of the Mexican community in Chicago. Arriaga lacked to understand his responsibilities that come with the job. They even wrote Calderón that Arriaga verbally attacks and offends leaders of the Mexican community based organizations looking to divide the community, reported El Diario Hoy from the Chicago Tribune.
Numerous members of the Institute for Mexicans Abroad (IME) even supported the allegations made by the 21 community organizations. IME members alleged Arriaga was not fullfilling his duties by working with the community and had neglected to attend community events in Wisconsin when invited.
Arriaga supposedly represents the Mexican government in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin. Arriaga failed to comment or respond to the allegations made by the organizations in 2008.
Arriaga, President Calderón and the Mexican government has yet to comment concerning the current bicentennial community celebration exclusion of MCS.

Related article:

Update: Mexican Consul In Chicago Violated Law, Major Latino Community Protest Set For Friday http://bit.ly/c4K4Zk

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