Fifty years ago, the president of this country had the social consciousness to celebrate the contributions of Latinos in United States during National Hispanic Heritage Month. It’s more important than ever to continue the tradition, tell our stories, share our joy, and dispel myths and prejudices. Hispanic Americans have risen in importance and power, but still, we are classified by color and culture. An intertwined tale of Hispanic Heritage Nogales, my hometown, is named after a walnut grove that belonged to the Elías family (Los Nogales de Elías), which was then a part of Mexico. Following the Gadsden Purchase in 1853, the Elías […]
Indomitable Mexico City
Exactly 32 years ago today (Sept. 19, 1985), Mexico was hit by a huge, destructive earthquake. Today, in a long series of global natural disasters, another big earthquake has reverberated through the city. Lives have been lost, buildings destroyed, and the dust has not yet settled. Mexico is a sprawling metropolis with something for everyone. It’s the best place to get lost or to find yourself. It has spectacular architecture, unparalleled cuisine, and the richest of histories, but the best thing about Mexico City is her people. They are cultured, welcoming, energetic, and warm. The time I lived in Mexico […]
Hey Desk Jockey: Why Your Back Hurts & the Fix
When you’re on a deadline, hunched over your computer, seldom taking bio breaks much less stopping to stretch or relax your eyes, your body will take its revenge. My fellow desk jockeys, if your back hurts or – randomly enough – if you have hip pain or any other sort of old person pain that’s far ahead of schedule, it’s time to step away from the computer (just for a few minutes, I’m sure you’ll be fine), stretch, lengthen, and establish some healthy behavior. A few months back, especially as I was getting out of my car and walking to […]