PERIÓDICO BILINGÜE





www.kchispanicnews.com

PRSRT STD  U.S POSTAGE 

PAID  KCMO   PERMIT NO. 990

Volume 13 Number 31

Preguntaran a Votantes aprobacion 3/8 cent. al Impuesto de Venta



08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010

Hispanic Day Encourages People to Run for State Offices joe arce and Debra DeCoster HISPANIC NEWS

Recortes al presupuesto continuarán teniendo un efecto mayor sobre mejoras a la infraestructura. Caminos como este pudieran nunca a llegar a ver aceras o cualquier mejora durante muchos años si el impuesto a la venta no llegara a pasar Budget cuts will continue to have a major effect on infrastructure improvements. Roads like this one may never see sidewalks or any improvement for years to come if the sales tax is not passed. TRADUCE PATRICIO H. LAZEN HISPANIC NEWS

Por Debra DeCoster El Gobierno Unificado del Condado de Wyandotte necesita dinero. Ellos están sintiendo “el apreton de la recesión”. El Gobierno Unificado ha ajustado sus presupuestos, le ha pedido a sus empleados que se tomen quince días sin paga y no ha reemplazado a los empleados que se han jubilado. Una caída en los valores de propiedades residenciales y comerciales han reducido los ingresos derivados de los

impuestos a las propiedades en $8,1 millones. Los ingresos de los impuestos a la venta han caído en $2,2 millones y otro golpe le fue dado a la ciudad por la eliminación del Impuesto a las Maquinarias y Equipos. El presupuesto de la ciudad ha sido recortado en $5,6 millones al año. El 13 de Abril. Los residentes de Kansas City Kansas irán a las urnas para votar en una elección especial. A los votantes se les pedirá que prueben una iniciativa para un impuesto a la venta de 3/8 de centavo la cual recaudará SALES TAX INITIATIVE / PAGE 

Voters will be asked to approve 3/8 cent sales tax Debra DeCoster • HISPANIC NEWS

The city’s budget has been slashed by The Unified Government of Wyan- $5.6 million annually. dotte County needs money. They are On April 13, Kansas City Kansas feeling the crunch of the recession. residents will go to the polls for a speThe Unified Government has tight- cial election. Voters will be asked to ened their budgets, asked employees approve a 3/8 cent sales tax initiative to take 15-day furloughs, and have which will raise about $6 million in not replaced employees as they re- projected new revenues if approved. tired. The drop in assessed values on The funds will be used to support pubresidential and commercial properties lic safety and community infrastruchas reduced property tax revenue by ture improvements. $8.1 million. Sales tax revenues have “This sales tax is an absolute necesslipped by $2.2 million and another sity. If this would not pass on April 13 blow to the city came in the elimination SALES TAX INITIATIVE / PAGE  of the Machinery and Equipment Tax.

Hispanic Day on the Hill in Topeka, Kansas had one message for Hispanic leaders, community members and students - Run for political office. “We would like to see some other brown faces in this legislature,” said Luis Ruiz, Legislator, 32nd District of Kansas. “I want to make sure that all of you at some point consider running for office. I don’t think we hear it enough for Latinos. We wait for somebody else to take the initiative. We need to take that initiative ourselves,” said Lolo Muniz. The annual event is an opportunity for Kansans to meet with the Kansas Legislature and Kansas agencies to discuss issues dealing with Hispanics and Latinos. As the Latino delegation gathered at the Dillon House in downtown Topeka, Kansas, they were greeted by Governor Mark Parkinson. He spoke last month about immigration and the growth of the Hispanic population in the United States and Kansas. State Representative Delia Garcia, Wichita, Kansas, was the first Latina elected to the Legislature in 2004. She is proud to serve her Wichita community but would like to see other Hispanics serving their communities at the Capitol. “I am proud to be the first Latino woman elected. I have been here for six years and every year I have had to fight hard against anti-immigration legislation that has to do with our community. Immigration is not the sole topic for our community, we have to further education and equal opportunities,” said Garcia. Education, unemployment and health care issues affect everyone in LATINO CONSTITUENTS HAVE / PAGE 

Lolo Muñoz was among the many speakers at this years Hispanic Day on the hill in Topeka, Kansas. He told the crowd how important it is for them to run for political office in their city or on a state level. Lolo Muñoz estuvo entre los muchos oradores del Día Hispano en la Colina realizado este año en Topeka, Kansas. Él le dijo a la multitud lo importante que es para ellos presentar sus candidaturas para cargos políticos en sus ciudades o a nivel estatal.

El Dia Hispano Anima a la Gente a Presentarse para Candidaturas de Cargos Públicos

TRADUCE PATRICIO H. LAZEN HISPANIC NEWS

El Día Hispano en la colina de Topeka, Kansas tuvo un mensaje para los líderes hispanos, los miembros de la comunidad y los estudiantes – presentar sus candidaturas a cargos políticos. “A nosotros nos gustaría ver otros rostros morenos en esta Legislatura”, dijo Luís Ruiz, Legislador del Distrito 32 de Kansas. “Quiero asegurarme de que todos ustedes en algún momento consideren presentar sus candidaturas. No creo que estemos escuchando mucho de parte

de los latinos. Esperamos que alguien tome la iniciativa. Tenemos que tomar la iniciativa por nuestra propia cuenta”, dijo Lolo Muñoz. El evento anual es una oportunidad para que la gente de Kansas se reúna con la Legislatura de Kansas y con agencias de ese mismo estado para discutir problemas referentes a los hispanos y a los latinos. En el momento en que la delegación se reunía en el Dillon House del centro de Topeka, Kansas, ellos fueron bienvenidos por el Gobernador Mark Parkinson. Él habló el mes pasado LOS VOTANTES LATINOS / PÁGINA 

Congressman Cleaver Outlines Health Care Bill to Amicable Crowd

Garcia’s Suspension Raises Questions

KC Voters Say Yes to Change

Cleaver told the crowd that the healthcare bill that passed is not one that he would have introduced but it is a beginning so people in the United States can have health care. Cleaver le dijo a la multitud que la ley para el cuidado de la salud que fue aprobada no es la que él hubiera sugerido, pero es el comienzo para que la gente en EE.UU. pueda acceder al cuidado de la salud. The newly elected candidates – Crispin Rea Jr., Kyleen Carroll and Joe Jackson – will be officially sworn in on April 14. All three candidates say ‘that’s when the work begins for them and their colleagues as a team. joe arce and Tony Balandran HISPANIC NEWS

Kansas City voters on Tuesday overwhelmingly endorsed a slate of candidates each with different ethnic backgrounds but all vowing to help usher in a sweeping reorganization plan and new era for the Kansas City School District. Voters elected Crispin Rea Jr., Kyleen Carroll for the at-large seats and Joseph Jackson for Subdistrict 4. With backdrop of a cheering crowd of supporters at the Upton Theater on election night, the three candidates repeated their goals of serving the needs of Kansas City students, parents and constituents. During the past several weeks, the candidates canvassed neighborhoods,

taking nothing for granted in the election and talking about the needed change in the school district. The trio earned the endorsements of several civic and political organizations, including Freedom Inc and the Kansas City Hispanic News. In unofficial results, Rea earned 8,307 votes, or 36.2 percent, and Carroll won 8,214 votes, or 35.8 percent. In the Subdistrict 4 race, Jackson received 981 votes, or 68 percent of the vote total. The turnout, however, was lower than what candidates had expected with only 8 percent of registered voters in the atlarge race and 6 percent in the Subdistrict 4 race. SEE PAGE 3 FOR COMPLETE STORY

• 2918 Southwest Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64108

walked towards the building, a man spat on him. It was a quieter scene when ConHealth Care Reform has been a volatile topic across the United States. gressman Emanuel Cleaver spoke in Demonstrators lined the steps of the late March at the Crossroads Coffee Capitol before the Health Care bill House. A crowd of about one hundred was passed. Upset that the bill was citizens listened to Cleaver highlight close to being passed, demonstrators key aspects of the bill. His speech was yelled threats to the Congressmen and met with applause from the crowd. as Congressman Emanuel Cleaver While some of the citizens in the crowd

joe arce and Debra DeCoster HISPANIC NEWS

HEALTHCARE IS A $2.4 TRILLION / PAGE 

Congresista Cleaver delinea el Proyecto de Ley del Cuidado de la Salud a una Amigable Concurrencia

TRADUCE PATRICIO H. LAZEN HISPANIC NEWS

La Reforma para el Cuidado de la Salud ha sido un tema volátil a través de EE.UU. Manifestantes se han estado alineado en las escalinatas del Capitolio desde antes de que la Ley para el Cuidado de la Salud fuera aprobada. Molestos de que la ley pasara por un estrecho margen, manifestantes vociferaron amenazas a Congresistas y cuando el Congresista Emanuel

• NEWSROOM:(816)472.KCHN

Cleaver caminaba hacia el edificio, un hombre le escupió. Fue una escena más quieta cuando el Congresista Emanuel Cleaver habló a fines de marzo en el Café Crossroads. Una multitud de cerca de cien ciudadanos escucharon a Cleaver resaltar los aspectos claves de la ley. Su discurso fue recibido con aplausos de parte de la concurrencia. Aunque algunos ciudadanos entre la EL CUIDADO DE LA SALUD / PÁGINA 

• FAX: (816) 931.NEWS

Bernardo Garcia has dedicated himself during the past year gearing up for Kansas City’s $2.5 billion sewer project. Supporters said they were stunned to learn about his suspension. joe arce and Tony Balandran EXCLUSIVE IN-DEPTH REPORT

A little more than a year after he was hired, Bernardo Garcia – the highestranking Latino in the Kansas City, Mo., government – has been suspended with pay pending a personnel investigation. Garcia told Hispanic News that he could not offer specifics about the suspension, citing that it was a personnel matter. Garcia was hired in March 2009 by then-City Manager Wayne Cauthen. His suspension comes the day after city officials announced the successful negotiations between Garcia’s department and the Environmental Protection Agency concerning a substantial sewer overhaul for Kansas City. Garcia and his management team were able to forge an agreement with the EPA that gives the city 25 years to upgrade its sewers and sewage pollution overflows. The expanded time frame, officials said, provides some relief in rate increases for the city’s water customers. COMMUNITY / PAGE 7

• E-MAIL: [email protected]





08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010



Latino constituents have a voice CONT./PAGE 

the community, but legislatures need to hear from the Hispanic community how these issues are affecting their everyday life.

that when we have an issue of importance they know what to do about that, they know how to reach out to their legislators, to mobilize not only within our own network but they know how to reach out to other agencies within the government,” said Perez. Latinos should know that it is important to exercise their right to vote, and register to vote. “There is a group of people that are really waking up to the idea that this is our time and this is our government and this is our country and we need to share in that and we need to be heard and respected,” said Perez.

LUIS RUIZ Legislator, 32nd District of Kansas

Ruiz volunteered for President Bill Clinton’s and Congressman Dennis Moore’s campaign. “Be involved in your community. A grassroots involvement is a good start. People will start asking you questions, they will pull you in to serve on campaigns and be on boards,” said Ruiz. Latino constituents have a voice in their communities and it was suggested that one of the best places to start is by serving on their school boards to help make a difference in their children’s education. Shala Perez, executive director of the Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission, told Hispanic News that they want the leadership from Kansas to learn to work with the legislators, work with the political process and with the commission. “We are trying to educate the Hispanic community so

RICKY LOVANO Garden City, Kansas

Twenty-four-year old Ricky Lovano of Garden City, Kansas remembers a time when he was in the military and he didn’t have a voice in matters that affected his life. Attending Hispanic Days was empowering to him and it encouraged him to exercise his right to speak up about issues that affect him and others in his Latino community in Garden City. “It was something that was taken from me at one point

and now I have a chance to use it,” said Lovano. He views the Latino population in his city as people who don’t want to get involved. He admits that he hasn’t been that involved in his community or the issues that are affecting our country, as he has been working and attending college. His trip to Hispanic Day has inspired him to make time and get involved. “Somebody has to start somewhere. I can do my part a little bit more but also the rest of the population needs to do it also. The Latino vote is important. No one puts in their two cents there (Southwest, KS.) they just wait around to see what happens. It is important that we vote,” stated Lovano. Commissioner John Mendez, 2nd District at Large in Kansas City, Kansas was excited to see young Latinos at the Capitol. “Young Latinos that are attending college want to learn about Latino issues throughout the state, throughout the community and our good nation,” said Mendez. Mendez spoke to members attending the event about how he began his career by being involved in the American GI Forum. “I went into service then came out and I was able to use my Veterans’ benefits to pay for my college. We as adults need to help our children receive a college education. I am committed to helping them. I always am and I always will,” he said. Muniz encouraged community members to learn who is running for office and what issues are important to them. He wants Latino constituents to know who the candidates are before

they vote for them. Too often, voters enter the polling precinct and do not recognize the names on the ballots - they have no idea who they are putting into office. “We have to be prepared for when it comes to the election we know who is running, we know where they stand on the issues so that we can make an informed decision,” said Muniz. Marie Cecilla YsaacBelmares, Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commissioner, told Hispanic News that if people are dissatisfied with the political process, then they are bothered by what is taking place in their community or state. “I invite people that feel that way to come to one of these events, or they can call me or call your legislature office, city council member, or state representative and tell them how you feel,” said YsaacBelmares. As Hispanic Day on the Hill came to a closed, YsaacBelmares hoped that the Latino members went home with at least five people’s names and contact numbers. “If you are Hispanic or African American or any minority it is important for you to voice your opinion whenever you have one and whenever something is affecting your life or family and your future. We need the foot soldiers and that is the general public, that is the mother, the housewives, the students, the laborer and the employers to be involved in the political side of their communities,” she said.

Los votantes latinos tienen una voz a ejercitar su derecho a hablar sobre problemas que lo afectan a él y a otros en su comunidad latina de Garden City. “Fue algo que me fue quitado durante un punto en mi vida y ahora tengo la oportunidad de utilizarlo”, dijo Lovano. El considera a la población latina de su ciudad como personas que no quieren participar. Él admite que no ha estado demasiado involucrado en su comunidad en lo que va a problemas que están afectando a nuestro país, ya que él ha estado trabajando y asistiendo a la universidad. Su viaje al Día Hispano lo ha inspirado a hacerse el tiempo y a participar. “Alguien tienen que comenzar en algún punto. Puedo hacer mi parte un poquito más, pero también el resto de la población tiene que hacerlo. El voto latino es importante. Nadie pone sus dos centavos allí (En el Suroeste de KS.) ellos simplemente quieren esperar para ver qué SHALA PEREZ sucederá. Es importante que Dra. Ej. Comision Asuntos Hispanos votemos”, declaró Lovano. El Comisionado John “Estamos tratando de educar a la comunidad hispana para que Méndez del Segundo Distrito cuando tengamos un problema General de Kansas City, Kansas de importancia, sepan qué hacer se mostró entusiasmado de ver a con ello, sepan cómo alcanzar a latinos jóvenes en el Capitolio. los legisladores, a movilizarse “Los latinos jóvenes que están no solamente dentro de nuestra asistiendo a la universidad propia red de contactos, sino quieren enterarse respecto a que también saber cómo llegarle los problemas latinos por intera otras agencias dentro del medio del estado, por intermedio gobierno”, dijo Pérez. de la comunidad y de nuestra Los latinos deberían saber lo buena nación”, dijo Méndez. importante que es ejercitar su Méndez habló con miembros derecho al voto y registrarse que atendían al evento respecto para hacerlo. “Hay un grupo a cómo él comenzó su carrera de personas que estás verda- al participar en el American GI deramente abriéndole los ojos Forum. “Entré al servicio y luego a la idea que éste es nuestro salí y pude utilizar mis beneficios momento y éste es nuestro de veterano para pagar mi gobierno y éste es nuestro país, universidad. Nosotros como tenemos que compartir en ello y adultos tenemos que ayudar tenemos que ser escuchados y a nuestros niños a recibir una respetados”, dijo Pérez. educación universitaria. Estoy Ricky Lovano, joven de comprometido a ayudarlos. veinticuatro años de Garden Siempre lo estoy y siempre lo City, Kansas, recuerda una estaré”, dijo él. época cuando estaba en el Muniz exhortó a los miembros ejército y no tenía una voz en de la comunidad a enterarse de asuntos que afectaban su vida. quiénes están presentando sus El asistir al Día Hispano fue candidaturas a cargos públicos y algo que le dio poder y lo motivó cuáles asuntos son importantes

y ha sido sugerido que una de las mejores posiciones para respecto a la inmigración y al crecimiento de la población comenzar es sirviendo en sus hispana en los Estados Unidos juntas escolares para ayudar a marcar una diferencia en la y en Kansas. educación de sus hijos. La Representante del Estado Shala Pérez, directora Delia García de Wichita, Kansas, fue la Primera Mujer ejecutiva de la Comisión de Latina elegida a la Legislatura Asuntos Hispanos y Latino en el 2004. Ella está orgullosa Americanos de Kansas, le dijo de servirle a su comunidad de a Hispanic News que ellos Wichita, pero le gustaría ver a quieren que el liderazgo de otros hispanos sirviéndoles a sus Kansas aprenda a trabajar con los legisladores, a trabajar con comunidades en el Capitolio. el proceso político y con la comisión. CONT./PÁGINA 

DELIA GARCIA Representante del Estado de Wichita

“Estoy orgullosa de ser la primera mujer latina electa. He estado aquí por seis años y cada año he tenido que luchar duro en contra de legislación anti-inmigrante que tienen que ver con nuestra comunidad. La inmigración no es el único tema para nuestra comunidad, tenemos que hacer avanzar la educación y la igualdad de oportunidades”, dijo García. La educación, el desempleo y los problemas del cuidado de la salud afectan a todos en la comunidad, pero la Legislatura necesita escuchar de parte de la comunidad hispana respecto a cómo estos asuntos están afectando su diario vivir. Ruiz trabajó como voluntario para las campañas de Presidente Bill Clinton y del Congresista Dennis Moore. “Participa en tú Comunidad. Una participación de base es un buen comienzo. La gente comenzará a hacerte preguntas, ellos te meterán a servir en campañas y a ocupar juntas”, dijo Ruiz. Los votantes latinos tienen una voz en sus comunidades

para ellos. Él quiere que los votantes latinos sepan quiénes son los candidatos antes de votar por ellos. Muchas veces, los votantes entran a los lugares de votación y no reconocen los nombres en los votos – ellos no tienen idea a quién están eligiendo para un cargo público. “Nosotros tenemos que estar preparados para que cuando venga la elección, sepamos quiénes están compitiendo, sepamos cuáles son sus posturas referentes a los problemas para que así podamos tomar una decisión informada”, dijo Muniz. Marie Cecilla YsaacBelmares, de la Comisión de Asuntos Hispanos y Latino Americanos de Kansas, le dijo a Hispanic News que si la gente no está satisfecha con el proceso político, entonces ellos están molestos por lo que está sucediendo en sus comunidades o en su estado. “Yo invito a las personas que siente de esa manera que vengan a uno de estos eventos o ellos pueden llamarme o llamar a la Oficina de su Legislatura, a Concejales de la Ciudad o a Representantes del Estado y decirles cómo se sienten”, dijo Ysaac-Belmares. En el momento en que el Día Hispano en la Colina llegaba a su cierre, Ysaac-Belmares tuvo la esperanza que los miembros latinos se fueran a casa con los nombres de por lo menos cinco personas y contactos telefónicos. “Si usted es hispano o afroestadounidense o de cualquier minoría, es importante para usted expresar su opinión cuando quiera que tenga una y cuando quiera que algo esté afectando su vida o a su familia y su futuro. Nosotros necesitamos soldados de infantería y ellos son el público en general, esa es la madre, las amas de casa, los estudiantes, los trabajadores y los empleadores que se involucren en el aspecto político de sus comunidades”, dijo ella.

www.kchispanicnews.com your latino connection since 1996

www.kchispanicnews.com

America Needs an Accurate Count

NCLR (National Council of La Raza), the largest national Latino civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, today joined elected officials and national Latino groups on Capitol Hill to highlight a variety of campaign efforts aimed at motivating the nearly 50 million Latinos in the country to participate in the 2010 Census. The groups have joined forces on the day that most households receive their Census forms. “Latinos are a national community and an integral feature of the face of America. Over the last two decades, we have grown across the nation, in small towns and big cities, in states from coast to coast,” said NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía. “Census information is protected and confidential, and the Constitution says every person must be counted—all communities will benefit from fulfilling that mandate. But it is a shame that Latino and immigrant families are getting mixed signals from the government about their participation due to raids and other alarming and arbitrary tactics being carried out in our communities,” added Murguía. While most Hispanic Americans are U.S.-born citizens, many live in mixed-status families, and that, combined with the patchwork of local and federal immigration enforcement practices and the confusion and fear they create, could make many families hesitant to let a stranger into their home. “Our community marched for respect in 2006, eligible immigrants became citizens in record numbers in 2007, and Latino voters turned out with

great energy in 2008. In 2010, that participation continues, and we are committed to achieving a Census count that gives us a true picture of the American population. NCLR stands together with our network of community-based organizations to encourage the Latino community to mail in their forms and participate fully in the 2010 Census, and we call on the government to stop practices that undermine our constitutional responsibility to achieve an accurate count” Murguía said. To prevent another undercount of Latinos, like that of the 2000 Census, NCLR has partnered in ya es hora ¡HAGASE CONTAR!(It’s Time! Make Yourself Count), a campaignwhose national partners also include the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, Mi Familia Vota Education Fund, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). As part of this work, NCLR is working with community-based organizations in its Affiliate Network to promote a full count of Latinos in a wide selection of states, including Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, and Tennessee, illustrating the breadth of the Latino community within the country.  In addition, campaign media partners, such as Entravision Communications Corporation, ImpreMedia, and Univision Communications Inc., will play an important role as they spread the message throughout their networks. For more information visit www.nclr. org

Estados Unidos Necesita Cuentas Claras

NCLR (El Consejo Nacional de la Raza), la organización nacional más grande de apoyo y defensa de los derechos civiles de los hispanos en los Estados Unidos, se unió hoy con oficiales electos y grupos latinos nacionales cerca del Capitolio para llamar atención a una variedad de campañas que buscan motivar a los casi 50 millones de latinos en el país a participar en el Censo 2010. Los grupos unieron sus fuerzas en el día en cual la mayoría de hogares han recibido sus formularios del Censo. “Los latinos son una comunidad nacional y una parte integral del rostro de Estados Unidos. Durante las últimas dos décadas, hemos ido creciendo como población en pequeños pueblos y en grandes ciudades en estados a lo largo y ancho de este país”, dijo Janet Murguía, presidenta del NCLR. “La información que recolecta el Censo está protegida y es confidencial, y la Constitución dice que todos debemos participar – rinde frutos para todas las comunidades. Desafortunadamente,  familias latinas e inmigrantes están recibiendo mensajes mixtos del gobierno respecto a su participación, debido a las redadas y otras tácticas alarmantes y arbitrarias llevándose a cabo en nuestras comunidades”, Murguía dijo. Mientras la mayoría de los hispanos son ciudadanos nacidos en Estados Unidos, muchos viven en familias de estatus mixto, y eso, combinado con el laberinto de prácticas migratorias por parte de agencias locales y federales y la confusión que estas producen, puede hacer que muchas familias duden en dejar entrar a un desconocido a su hogar. “Nuestra comunidad marcho por respeto en el 2006, los inmigrantes que pudieron se hicieron ciudadanos en números

record en el 2007, y votantes latinos salieron con gran energía a las urnas en el 2008. En el 2010, esa participación continua, y estamos comprometidos a lograr un Censo que nos da un verdadero retrato de la población americana. El NCLR se une a nuestra red de organizaciones comunitarias para recordarle a la comunidad latina a que manden sus cuestionarios y que participen plenamente en el Censo 2010, y hacemos un llamado al gobierno para que cese las practicas que podrían dañar nuestra responsabilidad constitucional de llevar a cabo un recuento fiel”, Murguía dijo. Para prevenir un recuento bajo de latinos, como se vio en el Censo 2000, el NCLR se ha unido con ya es hora ¡HAGASE CONTAR!una campaña cuyos participantes incluyen el National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, Mi Familia Vota Education Fund, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), y el League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). Como parte de este trabajo, NCLR está colaborando con organizaciones comunitarias en su Red de Afiliados para promover un recuento pleno de latinos en una amplia variedad de estados como Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, y Tennessee, ilustrando el gran alcance de la comunidad latina dentro del país. Además, los medios asociados a la campaña, como Entravision Communications Corporation, ImpreMedia, y Univision Communications Inc., tendrán un papel importante en llevar el mensaje al público latino por medio de sus cadenas. Para más información visite www. nclr.org

Llame para anunciarse en nuestra sección de clasificados: (816) 472.5246

www.kchispanicnews.com

08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010

Big win for school board candidates joe arce and Tony Balandran HISPANIC NEWS

Kansas City voters this week chose two at-large candidates who all vowed to help usher in a new era of the Kansas City School District by supporting the current superintendent and overseeing a widespread restructuring plan. Crespin Rea and Kyleen Carroll received the two highest numbers of voters in the field of six at-large candidates on Tuesday. Candidate Joseph Jackson also was elected to represent Subdistrict No. 4. In the days before the election the three candidates had gained the support of several public endorsements, including from Freedom Inc. Caroll, Rea and Jackson had pledged to focus on providing quality education in the district. They also support a vast transitional plan by Superintendent John Covington that calls for closing 26 schools in the district, consolidating programs, significantly reducing the workforce and saving an estimated $50 million. Covington said without the plan, the district was headed to bankruptcy. “Now, the hard work begins,” Rea, 24, told Hispanic News. “This is when we get into the trenches and do the people’s work.” Rea, a youth and community liaison at the Mattie Rhodes Center, said he would preserve Covington’s transitional plan and also push for the district to raise its standards so it can regain full accreditation. He said if Covington’s plan is dismantled or changed too much, “then we are back to square one.” Carroll, 25, a former district teacher, said she also wants to ensure safe schools throughout the district, raise educational standards and maintain communication with constituents. “The first thing is going to be digging deep into the transformational plan and moving forward, making sure that we are accountable to the community and supporting the superintendent,” Carroll told Hispanic News.

“I want people in Kansas City to know that this is their school district and that we are here to work for them … that when they elected us, we are here to listen and to provide solutions and ideas.” She said she hopes the new members of the board can help “change the tone of leadership and be a paradigm shift so we can support our superintendent and keep him here for a very long time.” Rea agreed, adding that the board’s leadership should also be examined to make sure good ideas, such as Covington’s plan, are not bogged down in a political quagmire. Jackson, a district parent, said the campaign has been a long journey, “but our end result is in the best interest of our children.”

He said he is concerned about the low performance levels at high schools and about the district’s revolving door in the superintendent’s office. “We have all talked about change for the last ten-plus years, we have all wanted change for the last ten-plus years. Now we have a great team together here to help bring about that change,” Jackson said. “Change only comes when people stop, look, listen and take action.” Craig Bland, president of Freedom Inc., told Hispanic News that the organization endured some criticism in its endorsement of non-African-American candidates. But, he said, the organization “had to find and endorse the most qualified candidates to handle a tremendous task. We see that in them.”

He added, “Sometimes we have to find ways to bridge the gap (between communities in Kansas City) and this is one of the ways to do that – to look for candidates that qualify and not worry about their race.” Current school member Airick West said Freedom Inc. decided to support a slate of candidates that mirrors Kansas City. “What they are saying with their selection is that the only way forward is the way united,” West said, adding that the era when board members cared only about students who looked like them is over. “That strategy has been the calling card of Kansas City politics for 30 years and it hasn’t worked,” West said. He praised Freedom Inc. for an

endorsement that is not bound by the restrictions of race or social class. “We can use those (school board) positions to bring us together and not keep us apart.” Carroll said she was pleased to have Freedom Inc.’s endorsement. “People are very excited to see that Freedom Inc. has come forward and made the change and backed people who are really driven to the educational success of all of our students and scholars,” she said. “What that tells us is that everybody right now is willing to make that paradigm shift. They will to say no to the status quo and to politics as usual say that we are going to work together to make this city happen



for all of our children. That’s what’s amazing.” Rea said Freedom Inc.’s support has meant a lot to him personally. “What that says to me is that Freedom Inc. truly understands what it means to judge someone based on the content of their character and not the color of their skin.” He said the new school board is an opportunity to bridge communities in Kansas City. “We have missed a couple of opportunities over the decades where our communities have not worked together the way they should have. Instead, we have been pitted against each other, fighting for crumbs so I think Freedom has taken a huge step in the right direction.”

your latino connection since 1996



08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010



www.kchispanicnews.com

Sales Tax Initiative on Special Ballot in KCK CONT./PAGE 

then we would be forced to look at reductions of services and possible property sales tax increases, which is neither of what we want to do,” said Commissioner Pat Pettey, 6th District. The City Commissioners have been meeting with community groups to discuss the April ballot. Both Commissioner Pettey and Commissioner John Mendez have found the public to be receptive to implementing the 3/8 cent sales tax. “One third of the sales tax will come from those who either work or just come here to visit. That is for me and for others a big seller because it displaces the burden,” explained Commissioner Pettey. Two years ago, the Unified Government knew that the economic recession was going to hit their operating budget and they began taking steps to cut expenditures where they could, but it was a domino effect felt by not only city government but city residents as well. The Unified Government saw rising unemployment numbers in the city and slower consumer spending created a drastic drop in sales tax collection. The national collapse of the housing market caused an increase in foreclosures, a decrease in home sales and a severe decline in property tax revenues. “Our 2010 budget is the most challenging the Unified Government has ever faced. We have made difficult decisions to manage our way through this economic crisis while maintaining essential services,” said Mayor Joe Reardon. One decision now rests with the voters as they will decide on

April 13 if they want the level of services they currently have in the city maintained or if the tax fails to pass, see the city make reductions in public safety and infrastructure. The Mayor and City Commissioners do not want to make cuts in public safety. They are hopeful that the sales tax will be approved and they can continue to provide the community with the same level of public safety they have had. “We are not happy to have to do this but there is not much choice if we want to keep a safe community. We looked at how much we were going to need to keep our public safety program that we feel would keep our neighborhoods safe,” stated Commissioner Mendez. In 2010, the city has of 82 fewer police officers and fire fighters responding to emergency calls. “Until the economy recovers, we need to maintain a good balance of public safety, police and fire during the interim. We have done a good job. Our police and fire have done an excellent job of maintaining safety here in our community. I believe personally that our public safety program is second to none,” said Commissioner Mendez. Unified Government employees are under a two-year pay freeze and are forced to take 15 days of unpaid furlough. Union employees have agreed to waive promised pay increases and the UG workforce has been reduced by fifteen percent, totaling more than 300 employees. All departments have been operating under a ten percent reduction in their budgets “I think that people can understand the challenges that their local government is facing and

they most likely understand personally as well because we have all been impacted some way or another by the downturn in the economy,” said Edwin Birch, UG Public Information Office. Nina Liston has lived in her Turner neighborhood for about 47 years and she questions, if the UG needs money why and how are they spending money on holding a special election? “That has been one of the major questions from members of the community. An election always carries a price tag. The amount of money that we would be recouping due to having a special election is much greater than waiting until August,” replied Commissioner Pettey. The Kansas Department of Revenue has informed the commissioners that any initiatives passed before April 18 would allow for local government to receive those revenues in June. If the Unified Government waited to hold the election in August with the primary election, they would miss out on two quarters of collecting revenues. “The UG will be totally transparent of expenditure of funds from the sales tax. We will have on our website … expenditures of those sales tax dollars and what they were spent on. We want to show the community that we are accountable for the money we are asking for with this sales tax for the operation of the UG. Reporting it gives the people the confidence that we are a government of our word,” replied Commissioner Mendez. Liston’s Turner neighborhood is on septic tanks systems and have no sidewalks. She would like to see the city put in sewers and sidewalks. “I have mixed feelings about it because I am

on a fixed income and I can’t pay the city for improvements to my neighborhood. It is difficult trying to pay property taxes now, buying groceries and maintaining automobiles, the cost just keep going up and it is scary when you are on a fixed income,” she said. Commissioner Pettey serves the Turner community and she told Hispanic News that she would love to see improvements such as sidewalks come into her district, but it is not feasible at this time. “I did look at putting in sidewalks on 49th Street and we are talking about a project that was going to cost $2 million. We would have to move utilities and it is a very costly process to do that,” said Commissioner Pettey. “City wide we are not going to be able to look at any new projects. We are looking at maintenance and maintaining what we are doing now.” The 3/8 cent sales tax initiative will sunset in ten years. The current break down will be to divide the funds is that two thirds will go to the police department and one third will go the fire department and the remainder will go into infrastructure. “If the sales tax is not approved we will continue to have budget shortfalls. We may need to increase property taxes but hope that will not happen. Street repairs and neighborhood improvements such as street resurfacing and curbs and sidewalks projects will continue to be suspended. Services and programs citizens like and depend on will be in danger of being scaled back or eliminated,” said Birch. In spite of the bleak picture painted by the proposed tax, officials point out that Wyan-

Impuestos de Venta en Especial Votacion en KCK CONT./PAGE 

cerca de $6 millones en nuevos ingresos proyectados, si se llegara a aprobar. Los fondos serán utilizados para apoyar seguridad pública y mejoras en infraestructura comunal. “Este impuesto a la venta es una necesidad absoluta. Si esto no llegara a pasar el 13 de Abril, entonces nos veríamos obligados a buscar reducciones de servicios y posiblemente incrementar impuestos a la propiedad, lo cual no es lo que queremos hacer”, dijo la Comisionada Pat Pettey del Sexto Distrito. Los Comisionados de la ciudad se han estado reuniendo con grupos comunales para discutir el voto de Abril. Tanto el Comisionado Pettey como el Comisionado Méndez han encontrado que el público se mostrado receptivo a implementar el impuesto de 3/8 de centavo. “Un tercio del impuesto a la venta vendrá de parte de aquellos que trabajan o solamente vengan de visita. Eso es bueno para mí y para otros porque desplaza la carga”, explicó la Comisionada Pettey. Hace dos años, el Gobierno Unificado se dio cuenta que la recesión económica iba a golpear a su presupuesto operacional y ellos comenzaron a tomar medidas para cortar gastos en donde pudieran, pero fue un efecto dominó, sentido no tan sólo por el gobierno citadino, sino también por los residentes. El Gobierno Unificado ­ vio que el alza de las cifras del desempleo en la ciudad y disminución en el gasto de los consumidores había creado un drástica baja en la recaudación de impuestos a la venta. “Nuestro presupuesto para el 2010 es el más desafiante que el Gobierno Unificado haya tenido que enfrentar. Hemos tomado difíciles decisiones para operar a través de esta crisis económica y poder mantener los servicios esenciales al mismo tiempo”, dijo el Alcalde Joe Reardon. Una decisión ahora descansa en los votantes mientras deciden el 13 de Abril si quieren que la ciudad mantenga el nivel de servicios que tienen en la actualidad o si el impuesto no llegara a pasar, ver cómo la ciudad hace reducciones en seguridad pública e infraestructura. El Alcalde y los Comisionados de la Ciudad no quieren

hacer recortes en seguridad pública. Ellos están esperanzados que el impuesto a la venta será aprobado y ellos podrán continuar entregándole a la comunidad con el mismo nivel de seguridad pública que ha tenido. “No estamos felices de hacer esto, pero no nos queda mucha elección si es que queremos mantener a la comunidad sana y salva. Estamos viendo cuánto vamos a necesitar para mantener el programa de seguridad que nosotros creamos que llegue a mantener nuestros vecindarios seguros”, declaró el Comisionado Méndez. En el 2010, la ciudad tiene 82 menos agentes de policía y bomberos respondiendo a llamadas de emergencia. “Hasta que la economía se recupere, tenemos que mantener un buen balance de seguridad pública, policía y bomberos durante el periodo interino. Hemos hecho un buen trabajo. Nuestra policía y bomberos han hecho un excelente trabajo manteniendo la seguridad aquí en nuestra comunidad. Personalmente creo que nuestro programa de seguridad pública no tiene paralelo”, dijo el Comisionado Méndez. Empleados del Gobierno Unificado se encuentran bajo un congelamiento de salarios de dos años y están obligados a tomarse 15 días libres sin paga. Los empleados del sindicato han acordado abstenerse de la promesa de aumentos salariales y la fuerza laboral del Gobierno Unificado ha sido reducida en un quince por ciento, totalizando más de 300 empleados. Todos los departamentos han estado operando bajo un diez por ciento de reducción en sus presupuestos. “Creo que la gente puede entender los desafíos que sus gobiernos locales están enfrentando y es más que probable que también lo entiendan de manera personal ya que han sido impactados de alguna manera u otra por la caída de la economía”, dijo Edwin Birch, de la Oficina de Información Pública del Gobierno Unificado. Nina Liston ha vivido en su vecindario de Turner por cerca de 47 años y ella cuestiona que si el Gobierno Unificado necesita dinero ¿Por qué y cómo ellos están gastando dinero al realizar una elección especial? “Esa ha sido una de las mayores interrogantes de parte

your latino connection since 1996

de miembros de la comunidad. Una elección siempre lleva la etiqueta de un precio. La cantidad de dinero que estaremos recuperando al tener una elección especial es mayor que si tuviéramos que esperar hasta Agosto”, respondió la Comisionada Pettey. El Departamento de Ingresos de Kansas les ha informado a los Comisionados que cualquier iniciativa pasada antes del 18 de Abril le permitirá a los gobiernos locales recibir esos ingresos en Junio. Si el Gobierno Unificado decide esperar para realizar la elección en Agosto con la elección primaria, ellos se perderán dos cuartos de los ingresos recolectados. “El Gobierno Unificado será totalmente transparente respecto al gasto de los fondos derivados del impuesto a la venta. En nuestro portal de la Internet tendremos… los gastos de esos dólares derivados del impuesto a la venta y en qué fueron gastados. Queremos mostrarle a la comunidad que nos hacemos responsables por el dinero que estamos pidiendo con este impuesto a la venta para las operaciones del Gobierno Unificado. El reportarlo le da a la gente la confianza que somos un gobierno que mantenemos la palabra”, respondió el Comisionado Méndez. El vecindario Turner de Liston utiliza tanques sépticos y no tiene aceras. A ella le gustaría ver que la ciudad pusiera alcantarillado y aceras. “Me siento confundida al respecto porque tengo un ingreso fijo y no le puedo pagar a la ciudad para que haga mejoras en mi vecindario. Es difícil tratar de pagar impuestos a la propiedad ahora, comprar abarrotes y mantener automóviles, los costos simplemente se mantienen subiendo y da temor cuando uno vive de un ingreso fijo”, dijo ella. La Comisionada Pettey le sirve a la comunidad de Turner y le dijo a Hispanic News que a ella le encantaría ver mejoras tales como aceras en su distrito, pero no es factible en este momento. “Estuve contemplando poner aceras en la calle 49 y estamos hablando acerca de un proyecto que va a costar $2 millones. Tendríamos que mover las utilidades y hacer eso es un proceso muy costoso”, dijo la Comisionada Pettey. “En toda la ciudad

“Our 2010 budget is the most challenging the Unified Government has ever faced. We have made difficult decisions to manage our way through this economic crisis while maintaining essential services,” said Mayor Joe Reardon. “Nuestro presupuesto para el 2010 es el más desafiante que el Gobierno Unificado haya tenido que enfrentar. Nosotros hemos tomado difíciles decisiones para poder funcionar a lo largo de esta crisis económica manteniendo al mismo tiempo los servicios esenciales”, dijo el Alcalde Joe Reardon.

dotte County is beginning to see a turn in the recession. New projects have been announced with Cerner office park and a soccer complex being built, new restaurants are being built in Village West and later this month Wyandotte County should have a ground breaking ceremony to kick off the building of a new casino.

“I feel very confident in three years we will be in a much better financial situation. We have good things happening in Wyandotte County so those things combined will allow us to have some funds to look at new projects down the road,” said Commissioner Pettey.

STRAIGHT TALK WITH FUNK

no vamos a poder contemplar ningún proyecto nuevo. Estamos contemplando el mantenimiento, y manteniendo es lo que estamos haciendo ahora”. La iniciativa del impuesto a la venta de 3/8 de centavo expirará en diez años. La actual organización secuencial será la de dividir los fondos para que dos tercios vayan al departamento de policía y un tercio vaya al departamento de bomberos y el resto ira hacia la infraestructura. “Si el impuesto a la venta no es aprobado, continuaremos teniendo escasez presupuestaria. Pudiéramos tener que aumentar los impuestos a la propiedad, pero esperamos que eso no suceda. Reparación de calles y mejoras a los vecindarios tales como proyectos para la repavimentación de calles, aceras y veredas continuaran suspendidos. Los servicios y programas que le gustan a los ciudadanos y en los que dependen, estarán en peligro de ser reducidos o eliminados”, dijo Birch. A pesar del sombrío panorama dibujado por el propuesto impuesto, oficiales indicaron que el Condado de Wyandotte está comenzando a notar un giro en la recesión. Nuevos proyectos han sido anunciados con el parque de oficinas Cerner y un complejo futbolístico siendo construidos, nuevos restaurantes se están construyendo en Village West y luego este mes, el Condado de Wyandotte debería realizar una ceremonia para poner la primera piedra para darle inicio a la construcción de un nuevo casino. “Me siento muy confiada de que en tres años nos encontraremos en una situación económica mucho mejor. Tenemos buenas cosas sucediendo en el Condado de Wyandotte, por lo que esas cosas combinadas nos permitirán contar con más fondos para contemplar nuevos proyectos en el futuro”, dijo la Comisionada Pettey.

Llame para anunciarse en nuestra sección de clasificados:

(816) 472.5246

The subject of city earnings taxes has been in the news a lot lately, with Missouri’s two largest cities being the primary focus of attention. Both Kansas City and St Louis have a 1% earnings tax, which voters approved decades ago. The issue has emerged in recent months, primarily as a result of efforts by the Show-Me Institute, which studies public policy and proposes solutions to public policy issues. The Institute’s President, Rex Sinquefield, is a millionaire businessman who would like to see city income taxes eliminated in Missouri. Missouri Secretary of State, Robin Carnahan, reported on December 28, 2009, that five petitions had been submitted that would eliminate city earnings taxes over a specified period. Before either of these petitions can be placed on the ballot for a statewide vote, the required number of signatures must be collected by the petitioners and approved by the Secretary’s office before May 2, 2010. My position on this issue has been cited in various reports by local media, but not in adequate detail. Essentially, I am not in favor of repealing the earnings tax without a great deal of thought and preparation, but I am in favor of keeping an open mind on the subject and examining different methods for replacing the revenue generated by the tax. This is an issue that is not going away, and we in City government need to understand that and be prepared. As Mayor I will tell you that our principal objective is to keep people and businesses in Kansas City and grow those numbers. To the extent that the earnings tax is a detriment to growth, and if there is a way to replace it that is rational and careful and smart, I’m open to doing that. On the

other hand, taking the $200 million that is raised by the tax out of the system overnight isn’t going to improve our ability to keep people and businesses in Kansas City either. I’m just saying you can’t be ideological about this. You can’t be closed minded about it. I’m willing to look at the facts and evidence on any situation, including the earnings tax. The Show Me Institute and others have made some recommendations about how to replace the earnings tax. We need to study those proposals carefully. I have my research staff looking into various studies, and we will be examining the issue very closely over time. The fact is, we have to find the best way to pay for all the city services that our citizens need – fire, police, trash collection, street paving and so on. If we had to get rid of the earnings tax today, I don’t know where we’d get the money to replace the $200 million it brings in. But we’ve been doing business the same way in Kansas City, and we’ve continued to lose market share. Our share of metro income in 1970 was 40%. Today it’s 18%. I’m not one of those people who believe we have to shrink government, or starve it, because bureaucrats and politicians spend too much money. I don’t want to shrink the revenue base for the city and I don’t want to reduce the size of City government more than we have over the past two years. We need a robust government with well paid, well trained and well equipped employees to provide services. As the merits of the City earnings tax are being debated over the next few months, I believe that we in City government must keep an open mind and consider alternatives.

www.kchispanicnews.com

08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010



CLASSIFIEDS & PUBLIC NOTICE • CLASIFICADOS & ANUNCIOS PÚBLICOS MBE/WBE/LBE Invitation to Bid: Turner Construction Company is soliciting bids for Work on the Kansas City Wizards Stadium project in Kansas City, KS. Bid Documents will be available for review at Turner’s main office, The Builder’s Association, FW Dodge, Reed Construction Data, NAWIC, Mid America Minority Business Development Council, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater KC, Hispanic Organization for Justice & Equality, Minority Contractors Association and AGC of MO – Jefferson City. They also can be purchased at KC Blueprint & Plan Room (phone 913.788.5003) at www.kcblueprint.com and are accessible at www.turner-kc.com/Wizards. Construction Documents &Specs will be available by Noon on Monday, April 5, 2010. Bid Package specific info will be available by Noon on Friday, April 9, 2010 through KC Blueprint and at www.turner-kc.com/Wizards BID PACKAGES AND BID DUE DATES: BP BP BP BP BP BP BP BP BP BP BP BP BP

CLIENT INTERNET SPECIALIST The #1 ABC affiliate in the Country, and the #1 News station in Kansas City is looking for a Digital Client Specialist. As a Digital Specialist you will work with KMBC and KCWE’s sales reps and their clients to ensure successful advertising campaigns. We are looking for someone that can provide superior customer service to our clients and sales representatives. Key requirements include online advertising trafficking, sales coordinator/planner, or related experience.

#9 – Overhead Doors / Coiling Grilles – Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #10 – Concrete Flatwork – Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #11 – Roofing - Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #12 – Metal Wall Panels/Architectural Metal – Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST. #13 – Masonry #1 – Interior Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #14 – Masonry #2 – Exterior Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #15 – Food Service Equipment Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #16 – Drywall & Framing – Pkg #1 Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #17 – Drywall & Framing – Pkg #2 Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #18 – Stadium Seating Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #19 – Fire Protection Sprinkler System Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #20 – Low Voltage Electrical Systems Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST #21 – SUPPLY ONLY – Doors/Frames/Hardware & Misc. Specialties Friday, April 23, 2010 @ 2 PM, CDST ** Bids are not being accepted for any other scopes of work at this time ** BIDDING QUESTIONS: All Scope or Bidding Questions need to be typewritten and faxed to: 816-283-0558. Bids are to be directed to Josh Jones at 2345 Grand, Suite 1000, Kansas City, MO 64108 or faxed to 816.283.0558

Experience with web/internet technologies (HTML, Flash, JavaScript). Ability to strive in fast paced work environment, manage multiple projects and tight deadlines. Strong focus on being a self-starter and team player. BA/BS or equivalent.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Email to [email protected]. No phone calls. EOE

SUPERVISOR Supervisor needed for new car wash/detail operation. Must be willing to wash and detail cars as well as supervise employees. Must be able to work independently and be self motivated. Previous supervisory experience preferred. Knowledge of PC and MS Office required. This is a great opportunity with a young company. Great potential for the right person. Email: [email protected] or call toll free 877-479-4224. GENERAL LABOR Great opportunity for person who is willing to work hard for a great company. Located next to KCI airport. Car wash/Detail experience preferred but not required - Will Train. Must speak English. Email: [email protected] or Call Toll Free 877-479-4224

INVENTORY CONTROL SUPERVISOR Seeking highly motivated individual to supervise all inventory and storeroom functions of the organization.  Responsibilities include supervision of storeroom staff, monitoring inventory and records management.  Must have inventory control experience, degree in Business or a related field and knowledge of database apps, excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills + 2 yrs supvry exp. Submit resume with a letter of interest to KCATA HR (1200 East 18th Street, KCMO 64108) no later than 4 PM, April 15, 2010. Selection process will include background, assessment center,  interview, drug screen and physical.  Go to www.kcata.org for job description.

DIESEL MECHANIC Description: Provide maintenance and repair services to ATA vehicles. Qualifications: Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is a transit company that provides mass transportation throughout the greater metropolitan of Kansas City. The Metro has several openings for Class “A” Mechanics in the Maintenance Department. The applicant must be a high school graduate or GED equivalent; have 5 years of journeyman diesel/gasoline experience, including engine, transmission & airbrakes; & be able to obtain a Class “A” CDL w/ Passenger Endorsement. Two years post secondary certified mechanic training program may be substituted for experience. Must pass required exam for the position, in addition to the drug/alcohol screen & pre-employment physical. Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience. To Apply: Pick up application at KCATA, 1200 East 18th Street, Kansas City, MO 64108 or download a application from our website www.kcata.org. AA/EOE

KCKCC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and encourages applications from minorities.

CLINICAL STUDY OPPORTUNITY

Accounting Department Manager For more info: www.mcckcjobs.com EOE/AA

DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED Driver Trainees Needed! WERNER is hiring- No CDL, No Problem! Training avail w/Roadmaster! Call Now! 866-467-8084

Driver Trainees Needed! WERNER is hiring- No CDL, No Problem! Training avail w/Roadmaster! Call Now! 866-467-8084

Clinical Study Opportunity for Healthy Adult! You don’t have to stop your job search to advance medicine. Quintiles has clinical studies for healthy, non-smoking adults, 18 +. Qualified volunteers could receive up to $5,000. Call Quintiles at (13-89405533 or visit our website StudyFor Change.com

QUESTEC MECHANICAL invites MBE/WBE sheet metal, insulation, controls, equipment suppliers and fixture suppliers to bid on the Tate & Switzler Hall Renovation at the University of Missouri , Columbia. Bids are due April 13. For more information contact Carl Brooks at 573-875-0260 or [email protected]

(816) 472.5246

DRIVERS WANTED Drivers: OTR, Vans. Dedicated Account. Top Pay & Benefits. 48 states. CDL-A 800-625-5292

For position requirements and application information, please view our website at www.kckcc.edu.

:

Drivers: Solos/Teams! Do you WANT Job Security? Great Hometime? Have Clean MVR, 2 yrs exp. CDL-A? www. climateexpress.com Clyde! 800-397-2623

MAINTENANCE WORKER (Job Reference #500198) Several positions available with the City of Kansas City, MO’s Parks & Recreation, Water Services, Public Works Departments at various locations. Normal work days, normal work hours and job duties vary by department. Requires 6 months of experience in general labor. May be required to possess a valid State-issued driver’s license in accordance with the City of KCMO policies. May be required to possess a valid Missouri Class A, B, or C CDL by the end of the probationary period as determined by the department. Salary Range: $2,283-$3,435/ month. Application Deadline: April 12, 2010. Please submit applications/ resumes online at www. kcmo.org. The City of Kansas City, Missouri is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce.

sección de clasificados

Drivers Opening Drivers: Teams Needed to run Preloaded, Drop/Hook Scheduled Lane Freight. Avg. 5100-6200 mi/wk & Get Home Weekly with Werner Enterprises: 1-866-823-0353

Llame para anunciarse en nuestra

Drivers Wanted: B & W Dedicated loads from MI to KS 100% no touch Auto Freight Average 2500- 3000 miles per week Requirements 1999 or newer tractor CDL-A 18 months exp 800-325-7884 ext 4

DEAN OF ENGINEERING, MATH, & SCIENCE DEAN OF BUSINESS & CONTINUING EDUCATION DEAN OF HUMANITIES & FINE ARTS

your latino connection since 1996



08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010



www.kchispanicnews.com

Healthcare is a $2.4 Trillion Expenditure CONT./PAGE 

did not agree with passing the health care bill, they did not disrupt the gathering. “I was able to participate directly in the passage of a measure that will rank alongside those great laws of civil justice. Despite the acrimony, the animosity and anxiety and in an environment of vitriol and venom the likes of which I have not seen in decades, I proudly voted to make health care in America a right and not a privilege,” said Cleaver. Margaret Harbert, 68 years old, of Lee Summit, is upset that retirement will not be in her future. She has health insurance through her employer but is having a hard time paying for herself. “I am not going to be able to retire. I blame Congress for what happened with the market and now my retirement savings got destroyed,” she said. She disagrees with Cleaver that the passage of the Health Care Reform bill will be good for the people. “I would like him (Cleaver) to explain why he voted against the will of the people. The majority of the people in this country are opposed to the health care reform bill they passed. I think it is very bad for the country,” she said. Harbert told Hispanic News that the bill is not addressing the real issue of why health care costs are rising. She claims that it is because of the malpractice insurance doctors are required to carry. “Do you have any idea what doctors have to pay for malpractice insurance each year? I want a salary that equals to what they have to pay for their insurance. Who pays for this? It is the patients. This isn’t addressing that issue at all.” she claimed. Cleaver told the crowd that the bill that did pass is not one that he would have introduced

but it is a beginning so that people in the United States can have health care. Chere Chaney came to hear Cleaver and she agrees with him that the bill is not perfect. “I feel the same way he does. I am a very strong option supporter. I am from the union movement so I know in a collective bargaining agreement you don’t always get everything you want the first time around, you have to build on that,” she explained. Chaney was in Washington, D.C. when it became apparent that the health care bill was close to passing in the House. “I stood in line with about 400 to 500 people wanting to get into the gallery to view this part of it,” she said. While she was standing in line, protesters were also in the crowd. “I am telling you these are frightening people - they do not have a real good check on reality. Most of them are tea baggers and they had signs that said “Kill the Bill.” Hearing them talk, it is their way or no way. As far as they are concerned it is all about them, it is not about society as a whole. To me they think it is ok to let those people die,” she said. According to a statement on Cleaver’s website, ‘this legislation will make health care affordable for the middle class, provide security for seniors, and guarantee access to health insurance for the uninsured while reducing the federal deficit by over $138 billion over the next decade.” The Act states that children with pre-existing conditions can no longer be denied health insurance coverage. Health care plans will allow young people to remain on their parents’ insurance policies until their 26th birthday and insurance companies will be banned from dropping people from coverage

when they get sick and will be banned from implementing lifetime caps on coverage. Adults who are uninsured because of pre-existing conditions will have access to affordable insurance through a temporary subsidized high risk pool. “We spend in this country $2.4 trillion a year and that is unsustainable because the rise was apparently unstoppable. Just like it was bankrupting the country, it has bankrupted the people because the number one cause for filing for bankruptcy in the United States is because of medical bills. We had to do something about it,” stated Cleaver. Farah Abdi attended the talk and held a sign up saying, Thank you for health care Barack Obama’. “I don’t have health insurance and I need it.” Abdi, sitting in his wheelchair, spoke with Hispanic News about what the lack of health insurance has done to him. “I have two garnishments from different hospitals for medical expenses. I am really very challenged now because of the lack of health insurance,” said Abdi. Trying to find an insurance company to sell him insurance when he has a pre-existing condition has been impossible. He watched the television coverage of President Barack Obama signing the health care reform bill into law. When the bill was signed, he felt relief. With the stroke of a pen, he could no longer be denied health care insurance due to his pre-existing conditions. The bill will begin to close the Medicare Part D ’donut hole’ by providing a $250 rebate to Medicare beneficiaries who have hit the gap in prescription drug coverage. Janet Frizzle, 75 years old, is in the Medicare Part D program. At the present time she is paying $49 a month for her prescriptions but will fall into the donut hole in

The state of Missouri has 320,000 people who are not covered with insurance plans. Cleaver stated that those uninsured will now be covered under the new bill. El estado de Missouri tiene 320.000 personas que no están cubiertas con planes de seguros. Cleaver declaró que aquellas personas sin seguros estarán cubiertas ahora bajo la nueva ley.

August, and the rebate check of $250 will not help her cover the cost of her medication. “I take a lot of prescription medications and in August each of those prescriptions will cost me more than $300. I am encouraged by the attention the president is paying towards our medications and prescription drugs. Hopefully I will live long enough when the Plan D is closed in four years,” said Frizzle. The state of Missouri has 320,000 people who are not covered with insurance plans. Cleaver stated that those uninsured will now be covered under the new bill. Frizzle, who is all smiles when she talks about the health care reform, feels that Americans need to be supportive of the bill. “It makes me happy that this bill was signed. It means so much to so many people. Look

El Cuidado de la Salud gasta $2.4 Trillones CONT./PAGINA 

concurrencia no concordaban con la aprobación de la ley para el cuidado de la salud, ellos no interrumpieron la reunión. “Yo pude participar directamente en la aprobación de una medida que se sitúa entre aquellas grandes leyes de la justicia civil. A pesar de la actitud antagonista, la hostilidad y la ansiedad y un ambiente de virulencia y veneno de los cuales no he visto en décadas, yo voté con orgullo para hacer que el cuidado de la salud sea un derecho y no un privilegio en EE.UU.”, dijo Cleaver. Margaret Harbert, una dama de 68 años de Lee Summit, está molesta que la jubilación no estará en su futuro. Ella tiene seguro médico por intermedio de su empleador, pero le está siendo difícil pagar por cuenta de ella. “No voy a poder jubilarme. Yo culpo al Congreso por lo que ha sucedido con el mercado y ahora los ahorros de mi jubilación se han destruido”, dijo ella. Ella no concuerda con Cleaver que la aprobación del proyecto de ley para la Reforma al Cuidado de la Salud será bueno para la gente. “Me gustaría que él (Cleaver) me explicara por qué votó en contra de la voluntad de la gente. La mayoría de la gente en este país se opone a la ley para la reforma de la salud que ellos aprobaron. Creo que es muy mala para el país”, dijo ella. Harbert le dijo a Hispanic News que la ley no trata el verdadero problema de porqué los costos del cuidado de la salud están aumentando. Ella dice que es debido a las demandas de malas prácticas que los médicos son obligados a tener. “¿Tienen ustedes alguna idea lo que los médicos tienen que pagar por seguros para malas prácticas cada año? Quisiera un salario que sea igual que lo que ellos tienen que pagar por sus seguros. ¿Quién paga por eso? Son los pacientes. Esto no está tratando ese problema para nada” dijo ella. Cleaver le dijo a la concurrencia que la ley que fue aprobaba no es la que él hubiera introducido, pero es un comienzo para que así la gente en EE.UU. pueda tener cuidado de la salud. Chere Chaney vino a escuchar a Cleaver y está de acuerdo con él que la ley no es perfecta. “Siento de la misma manera que él. Apoyo una opción con mucha fuerza. Soy del movimiento

sindical por lo que sé que en un acuerdo para una negociación colectiva uno no siempre obtiene todo lo que quiere la primera vez que uno trata, uno tienen que edificar sobre ello”, explicó ella. Chaney estuvo en Washington, D.C. cuando se tornó aparente que le proyecto de ley para el cuidado de la salud estaba cerca a ser pasado en la Casa de Representantes. “Estuve en fila con cerca de 400 ó 500 personas esperando entrar a la galería para ver parte de ello”, dijo ella. Mientras se encontraba en fila, entre la muchedumbre también habían manifestantes. Les digo que éstas son personas que dan miedo – ellos no tienen un buen concepto de la realidad. La mayoría de ellos son del Partido del Té y llevaban pancartas que leían “Maten el Proyecto de Ley”. Escuchándolos hablar, es de su manera o de ninguna manera. En lo que a ellos respecta, todo se trata de ellos, no se trata de la sociedad como un todo. Para mí, ellos piensan que está bien dejar que la gente muera”, dijo ella. Según una declaración en el Portal Internet de Cleaver, ‘esta legislación hará que el cuidado de la salud sea asequible para la clase media, ofrecerá seguridad para los jubilados y le garantiza el acceso a seguros de salud a quienes carecen de uno reduciendo al mismo tiempo el déficit federal en más de $138 billones a lo largo de la próxima década”. El Acta declara que a los niños con condiciones pre-existentes ya no se les puede negar cobertura de seguros médicos. Planes para el cuidado de la salud le permitirá a los jóvenes permanecer en las pólizas de seguros de sus padres hasta el día de su cumpleaños #26 y a las compañías de seguros se les prohibirá dejar sin cobertura a las personas cuando se enferman y se les prohibirá implementar límites de cobertura relacionados con la edad. Los adultos que no poseen seguros a causa de condiciones pre-existentes tendrán acceso a seguros de precios más módicos mediante una reserva temporal subsidiada para personas de alto riesgo. “En este país nosotros gastamos $2,4 trillones al año y ese ritmo no se puede sostener ya que el aumento era aparentemente imparable. Tal como lo era hacer quebrar al país, ha hecho quebrar a las personas debido a que la causa número uno en declarar bancarrota en EE.UU se debe a cuantas médicas. Teníamos

your latino connection since 1996

que hacer algo al respecto”, dijo Cleaver. Farah Abdi asistió a la plática y acarreó una pancarta que leía, ‘Gracias por el cuidado de la salud Barack Obama’. “No tengo seguro médico y lo necesito”. Abdi, postrado en una silla de ruedas, platicó con Hispanic News respecto a qué le ha causado la carencia de seguro médico. “Me están sacando dinero de dos hospitales diferentes por los gastos médicos. Estoy en un verdadero desafío ahora debido a la falta de seguro médico”, dijo Abdi. El tratar de encontrar una compañía de seguros que le venda cobertura cuando tiene una condición pre-existente le ha sido imposible. El vio la cobertura televisiva del Presidente Barack Obama firmando como ley el proyecto de ley para la reforma al cuidado de la salud. Cuando el proyecto de ley fue firmado, él sintió alivio. Con el movimiento de un lápiz, a él ya no le pueden negar seguros médicos debido a sus condiciones pre-existentes. La ley comenzará a cerrar el forado de la Parte D del Medicare al entregar una rebaja de $250 a los receptores del Medicare quienes han dado contra la brecha referente a la cobertura de medicamentos. Janet Frizzle, de 75 años, está en el programa Parte D de Medicare. En la actualidad ella está pagando $49 al mes por sus medicamentos, pero caerá en el hoyo en agosto y el cheque de rebaja de $250 no la ayudará a cubrir los costos de sus medicamentos. “Yo tomo muchas medicinas recetadas y en agosto cada una de esas prescripciones me costarán más de $300. Estoy motivada por la atención que el presidente le está dando a nuestras medicinas y prescripciones. Espero vivir un tiempo lo suficientemente largo cuando el Plan D sea cerrado en cuatro años”, dijo Frizzle. El estado de Missouri tiene 320.000 personas que no están cubiertas con planes de seguros. Cleaver declaró que esas personas sin seguros podrán ahora ser cubiertas por la nueva lay. Frizzle, quien se ríe bastante cuando conversa respecto a la reforma para el cuidado de la salud, cree que los estadounidenses tienen que mostrarle apoyo a la ley. “Me hace feliz que se haya firmado esta ley. Significa tanto para tanta gente. Miren a los

cientos de miles de personas que tendrán seguros y el Congresista Cleaver habló respecto a mujeres que tendrán seguros de salud con condiciones pre-existentes, eso es tan importante”, dijo ella. Estudios demuestran que mujeres pagan premias un 48 por ciento más altas en sus seguros que los hombres. Las compañías de seguros pueden considerar una Cesárea como una condición preexistente o podrían considerar a una mujer abusada como una condición pre-existente y negarle su cobertura médica. Corfirio Ryan, un residente del Westside, estaba enfadado con el Partido Republicano, estaba determinado a no dejar pasar la

at the hundreds of thousands that will have insurance and Congressman Cleaver spoke about women that will have health insurance with pre-existing conditions that is so very important,” she said. Studies show that women pay 48 percent higher premiums on their insurance than men. Insurance companies can consider a C-section as a pre-existing condition or they may consider a battered woman as a pre-existing condition and deny her insurance coverage. Porfirio Raya, a Westside resident, was angry that the Republican Party was determined not to pass the bill. “It angers me because they are playing with people’s lives. People that don’t have health care are the ones that are suffering. They can’t afford to go to the doctor and when they do go it is usually a life or death situation,” he said.

Based on an analysis by the Congressional Budget Office, the bill will cut the deficit by $138 billion in the first ten years. It will cut the deficit by $1.2 trillion in the second ten years. It will reduce the growth in Medicare expenditures by 1.4 percentage points per year and improve benefits and lower costs for senior citizens. Frizzle looks forward to lower cost and improved benefits to address her health care issues. She has struggled during the harsh economic times to pay for her medications, her food and pay her utilities. “It is so easy to think of the things that impact us directly but when we think of all of our friends and neighbors who are under even more stress than what I may be feeling you have to feel very good about what is being done,” said Frizzle.

ley. “Me hace enfadar porque están jugando con las vidas de las personas. La gente que no tiene seguro médico es la que sufre. Ellos no pueden costear una visita médica y cuando llegan a ir es comúnmente una situación de vida o muerte”, dijo él. Basado en un análisis de la Oficina de Presupuesto del Congreso, la ley recortará el déficit en $138 billones en los primeros diez años. Reducirá el déficit en $1.2 trillones durante los segundos diez años. Reducirá el crecimiento en los gastos del Medicare en 1.4 puntos porcentuales por año y mejorará los beneficios y bajará los costos de los jubilados.

Frizzle está ansiosa por ver costos menores y mejoras en beneficios que atiendan sus problemas del cuidado de la salud. Ella ha luchado durante los difíciles tiempos económicos para pagar sus medicinas, su comida y para pagar sus cuentas de energía. “Es tan fácil pensar sobre las cosas que nos impactan directamente, pero cuando pensamos en todos nuestros amigos y vecinos que están incluso bajo más tensión que la que yo pudiera estar sintiendo, uno tiene que sentirse bien sobre lo que se está haciendo”, dijo Frizzle.

www.kchispanicnews.com  08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010

08 www.kchispanicnews.com DE ABRIL DEL 2010 

Community will keep close tabs on inquiry

(Exclusive photo) A group of Hispanic leaders – John Fierro, Jerry A. Adriano, Paul Rodriguez, Bernardo Ramirez, Carlos Gomez, Frank Perez – met with acting City Manager Troy Schulte for about 45 minutes on Tuesday to discuss the group’s concerns about the recent suspension of Waters Services Director Bernardo Garcia. CONT. / PAGE 1

Schulte said the investigation involves a serious allegation by a person or persons in the water department. He said the city would have an outside investigator look at the matter to avoid any hint of bias. Garcia’s suspension is concerning some Hispanic residents and officials in Kansas City who a year ago praised the city for hiring a Latino as the city’s director of water services. This week, they questioned the suspension. “He is the highest-ranking Hispanic ever – ever – to take a directorship position in City Hall, said Paul Rodriguez, chairman of the Hispanic Contractors Association of Greater Kansas City. “We want to assure and monitor the process to make sure he (Garcia) gets a fair review.” Rodriguez said he feels Garcia will be reinstated, “but the fact he has been suspended is going to have an effect on his position as a leader in the water department. I think his reputation has been slightly tainted now.” “It’s hard to understand that one day you praise him and the next day you suspend him. It’s a reason for concern,” said Rodriguez, who added that he has not heard anything negative about Garcia since he was appointed.

Kansas City resident Susan Ramirez wrote to Hispanic News, “I do not personally know Mr. Garcia but I have watched his actions in the water department. I was relieved, as were my neighbors, to learn that Garcia had negotiated a larger amount of time for our city to come into compliance with EPA regulations. We seem to have avoided immediate and massive water rate increases by this action.” Ramirez continued, “Mr. Garcia has been in City Hall for only a year and yet he has been more effective than many longterm-dead-woods whom have dodged the budget axe. While I generally support the ‘New Sheriff in Town’ prerogative, I can not go along with this suspension as it appears to be inside City Hall politics. I cannot go along with this suspension as it directly affects me and my water supply.” Before the suspension, Garcia oversaw about 900 employees and was guiding the city through an estimated $2.5 billion sewer overhaul to meet a federal mandate. Kansas City resident John Fierro, who also attended Tuesday’s meeting, said, “I would ask that the community be patient with this delicate and private situation involving Mr. Garcia. The recent action by

the (acting) city manager is to avoid violating the employee’s right to due process. My hope is that after such process has been completed, this personnel matter will be resolved in a fair and equitable manner. Without knowing the details of the personnel issue, I can only hope that a resolution to this case does not involve termination.” A year ago, Cauthen, who was city manager at the time, said the head of the Water Services Department had to deal with a variety of personnel and had to be someone who was community-oriented. However, some veteran water department employees reportedly have characterized Garcia as a takecharge, hard-edge supervisor. Before arriving in Kansas City, Garcia served as director of planning and growth management and director of public works for Hillsborough County, Fla., and was also assistant County Administrator for Development and Infrastructure. In that position he supervised eight departments with 3,100 employees and an operating budget of $1.5 billion. Garcia has a B.A. in civil engineering from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. He did his graduate work in civil engineering at the University of New Mexico.

On Tuesday evening a group of six Hispanic civic, business and community leaders met with Schulte to express their concerns about what prompted the suspension. After a 45-minute discussion, Schulte described the meeting as productive. “We expect a quick resolution to this situation in the next several weeks and then we can get back to more important things like how (the city) will spend $2.5 billion on the largest capital improvement expenditure in the city’s history.” He said the suspension was not an attempt to alienate any sector of the Kansas City community but was part of a process in a formal investigation. “We could not go into any specifics but hopefully we left the meeting with an awareness that we need to keep the dialogue open, that concerns of the Hispanic community will be heard at City Hall and that they will be taken into consideration both in this issue and in other issues about how we increase participation in all areas of government,” Schulte said. “The most productive part of the conversation was how we get more opportunities for Hispanic members of the community to serve in leadership roles in the city.” Bernardo Ramirez, a community leader who attended the meeting, said he did not think the suspension was rooted in racism. “It was a formal grievance and the city had to respond to it,” Ramirez said, adding that the allegation did not center on Garcia’s management style or what he is trying to accomplish as a new leader of the Water Services Department. your latino connection since 1996

your latino connection since 1996



08 DE ABRIL DEL 2010

your latino connection since 1996



www.kchispanicnews.com