This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Home » Home » Florida Tech Defeats UPR-Bayamon 87-65 to Capture Panthers First Win By  //  December 1 FLORIDA – Florida Tech notched its first win of the season against UPR – Bayamon Xavier Ford-Belton would get the scoring going for Tech with a layup followed by a Max Polk layup to take the first lead of the game over the Cowboys The teams would stay close in battle over the course of the first six minutes tied at 10-10 Max Polk would look to change that with a one-man coast to coast trip and scoring a layup to start a run for the Panthers Tech would grow their lead to six which it would stay at until the seven minute mark when the Panthers would catch fire and Aj Lieuwen would carry the Panthers to a huge lead now up 20 points The Panthers would finish the half out with a (7-0) run over the last 90 seconds as they would be up big at the break Donovan Murphy would get a layup with one second left to take a 51-26 lead The Cowboys would not go down without a fight as they would simply not miss to start the second half A 25-point lead would be erased as Techs lead would go from 25 to a single-digit eight points in eight minutes a scene the Panthers are all too familiar with this season A layup by Xavier Ford-Belton would stop the bleeding there as the Panthers would than finally get their offense going Elhadji Thiam would lead the Panthers in the second half scoring 12 and grabbing four boards to lead Tech back to a huge lead of 21 Tech would hold the Cowboys scoreless for three minutes in the process and put their bench in with two minutes to play and go on to win ■ Donovan Brown led the Panthers in scoring with 19 points ■ Elhadji “ET” Thiam had his best game of the season posting a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds The Panthers will have a quick turnaround hosting North Greenville University tomorrow 1:30pm at the Clemente Center looking to go 2-0 on the weekend CLICK HERE FOR BREVARD COUNTY NEWS Click Here to Sign Up for Text Alerts Drivers seeking the high-performance 2024 Honda Civic Type R can visit Flagship Honda high-performance capabilities and advanced safety features the 2024 Civic Type R is an exciting choice for driving enthusiasts the Civic Type R is powered by a 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with a turbocharger and intercooler producing a thrilling 315 hp and 310 lb.-ft This allows drivers to feel the rush of speed while maintaining control with the 6-speed manual transmission Whether cruising around town or hitting the highway allows drivers to adapt to any driving condition or personal preference easily the electric parking brake with self-locking brakes simplifies parking Hill Start Assist provides peace of mind on steep inclines preventing rollback when transitioning from brake to gas allowing drivers to start the vehicle from a distance ideal for warming up the car on chilly mornings The Civic Type R also boasts an adaptive suspension system and multi-link rear suspension Brembo® 4-piston aluminum front brake calipers provide robust and reliable braking power in all driving conditions with features like the Collision Mitigation Braking System™ Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor These systems help prevent accidents and provide drivers with enhanced awareness of their surroundings featuring a dual-zone automatic climate control system and a center console with ample storage space for personal items offering extra room for groceries or sporting gear High-tech features include a 9-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ as well as a premium Bose sound system with 12 speakers and a subwoofer Shoppers eager to experience the 2024 Honda Civic Type R are invited to visit Flagship Honda for a test drive and more details The dealership is conveniently located at PR-2 Marginal Road interested drivers can reach out at 787-301-0381 Sandra Huerto, Flagship Honda, 9396399719, [email protected], https://www.flagshiphondapr.com/  Do not sell or share my personal information: Cover Page Legal HistorySports SearchRoad connection project between San Juan & Bayamón underwayThe San Juan Daily StarFeb 271 min readTransportation & Public Works Secretary Edwin González Montalvo said the new connection will allow drivers on PR-18 to directly join PR-22 without having to cross Chardón Avenue which will reduce travel time and facilitate vehicular flow.By The Star Staff Jenniffer González Colón and Transportation & Public Works (DTOP) Secretary Edwin González Montalvo broke ground on Wednesday for the extension project from F.D Roosevelt Avenue (PR-23) to highway PR-22 in the direction of Bayamón aims to benefit thousands of drivers who travel through the area “This project will offer an additional lane on PR-22 toward Bayamón allowing for more agile traffic and reducing congestion at the intersection of Chardón Avenue,” the governor said at a press conference González Montalvo noted that the new connection will allow drivers on PR-18 to directly join PR-22 without having to cross Chardón Avenue which will reduce travel time and facilitate vehicular flow the work will include the expansion of the bridge over F.D the construction of a new access ramp and improvements to the pavement The DTOP secretary said the work will not affect the operation of the current exit during the construction process “We are focused on developing projects that alleviate vehicular congestion and improve mobility on the island,” González Montalvo said “This work is part of a larger strategy to optimize our road infrastructure and reduce citizens’ travel times.” Citzens were urged to drive with caution in construction areas reduce speed and follow traffic signs to ensure the safety of workers © 2025 The San Juan Daily Star - Puerto Rico Prospective buyers seeking an SUV that combines iconic design with exhilarating performance should consider the 2025 Mazda CX-70 at Flagship Mazda This new addition to the Mazda lineup promises an exceptional drive with advanced technology Under the hood of the 2025 Mazda CX-70 is the revolutionary e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3-liter inline 6-cylinder turbo engine paired with a 48V Mild Hybrid (M-Boost) system The rear-biased i-ACTIV AWD® system enhances driving dynamics by providing optimal traction and stability while the Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) allows drivers to choose from Sport adapting the vehicle to various driving conditions With a robust towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. the CX-70 is well-equipped for hauling gear and trailers The 2025 Mazda CX-70 offers premium features for better comfort and convenience The power sliding-glass moonroof with tilt feature provides an airy the hands-free rear power liftgate with programmable height adjustment ensures easy access to the cargo area three-zone automatic climate control with a pollen filter maintains a comfortable environment for all passengers the 2025 Mazda CX-70 boasts a spacious and thoughtfully designed interior It includes various storage options such as a front and rear center console area a glove compartment and an overhead console with a sunglasses holder The SUV features a front center console armrest with storage front and rear door bottle holders and a cargo area with storage boxes and under-floor compartments The 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and two-position memory along with the 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat ensures personalized comfort for both the driver and the front passenger the infotainment system in the CX-70 keeps drivers connected and entertained It features a Bose® Centerpoint® Surround Sound System with AudioPilot® and 12 speakers and wireless integration for Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ The Mazda Online Navigation System includes off-road navigation capabilities and a wireless phone charger keeps devices powered without cables Safety and driver assistance are top priorities in the CX-70 The vehicle is equipped with Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Auto Speed Limit Assist helping drivers maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and adapt to changing speed limits the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System and Push Button Start offer effortless access and ignition Lane Departure Warning System and Emergency Lane Keeping with Blind Spot Assist The vehicle also features Road Keep Assist Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist and a Rear Seat Alert to ensure a safe and secure driving experience Prospective buyers interested in experiencing the 2025 Mazda CX-70 are encouraged to schedule a test drive at Flagship Mazda Shoppers can explore the online inventory or visit the dealership at PR-2 Marginal Road interested shoppers are requested to contact Flagship Mazda at 787-335-6798 Sandra Huerto, Flagship Mazda, 939-639-9719, [email protected], https://www.flagshipmazda.com/ SearchDanilo Gallinari joins Bayamón Cowboys for 2025 BSN seasonThe San Juan Daily StarJan 241 min readBy The Star Staff The Bayamón Cowboys (Vaqueros de Bayamón) announced this week the signing of Italian basketball standout Danilo Gallinari as their first recruit for the 2025 National Superior Basketball (BSN by its initials in Spanish) season with an outstanding career in Europe and the NBA joins the team with the goal of strengthening its roster “It is a great pleasure to prepare for a new and important challenge with the Vaqueros de Bayamón uniform,” said Gallinari “I am grateful to be able to do what I love most I thank the team and especially Carlos Arroyo for his trust.” Team co-manager Arroyo highlighted the importance of the signing: “I am proud to be able to present this great signing to our fans We feel very fortunate to have a figure like Danilo Gallinari whose 16-year NBA career and worldwide renown demonstrates our unique commitment: winning a championship!” The 6-foot-10 Gallinari plays forward and power forward his ability to score from outside and his skill in the low post he has played for teams such as the New York Knicks with the most championships in BSN history believes that Gallinari’s experience and skills will be key to achieving their goals for the season that begins in March SearchGiant lamp installations to be featured in seasonal exhibition in BayamónThe San Juan Daily StarNov 14 20241 min readA LEKTRIK Art lamp installation at Jungle Island in Miami (LinkedIn)By The Star Staff Event management company LEKTRIK Art will bring its giant lamps to Puerto Rico this evening at Parque de las Ciencias near Toroverde in Bayamón Seven countries have experienced the giant lamps handcrafted by the company in exclusive editions for each country they visit fauna and traditions of Puerto Rico along with images that represent Christmas around the world which represents an investment of some $1.5 million consists of more than 70,000 lights and more than 600 lamps each one handmade by artists from LEKTRIK Art Florida-based custom lighting designer and manufacturer that is recognized in the major attractions industry manufactures and installs award-winning themed lighting displays around the world SearchHealth Department promotes the modernization of the old Bayamón Regional HospitalThe San Juan Daily StarNov 19 20243 min readPatients of HURRA now have an additional guarantee of medical excellence after obtaining Joint Commission accreditation an international recognition that certifies the highest standards of quality and safety in health care.By The Star Staff With an investment of more than $21 million Ramón Ruiz Arnau University Hospital (HURRA in Spanish) has significantly transformed its medical services and infrastructure consolidating itself as a modern and efficient health center at the service of the community These improvements seek to meet the current needs of patients and position the hospital as a model of cutting-edge medical care in Puerto Rico Among the most notable advances is the acquisition of new high-precision medical equipment These investments strengthen the hospital’s diagnostic capacity reducing waiting times and improving precision in the care of critical cases HURRA has expanded its medical team by hiring more than 40 radiologists and six specialized surgeons who now offer outpatient services in external clinics These changes ensure broader and faster access to surgical and diagnostic care To ensure operational continuity during emergencies the hospital has implemented a robust energy infrastructure that includes three 2.5-megawatt generators with the capacity to power 100% of the institution for five consecutive days it has internal and external fuel tanks that ensure a long-term reserve These measures make HURRA a resilient center that is prepared to face adverse events and emergencies without interruption of services HURRA has also renovated its clinical areas with strategic investments to improve the patient experience and staff safety the hospital now has the largest hospital isolation area in Puerto Rico designed to safely handle cases that require a controlled environment Some 11 PYXIS advanced medication dispensing systems were purchased and the pharmacy clean room was completely renovated with an investment of more than $1 million improving safety and efficiency in medication management this modernization includes the installation of ramps for people with functional diversity and LED lighting in parking lots creating an accessible and safe environment for all visitors and patients Health Secretary Carlos Mellado López highlighted the positive impact of these improvements “We want HURRA to not only meet current standards but to establish a new parameter of excellence in medical care in Puerto Rico The improvements in infrastructure and services reflect our effort to maintain a health space that responds to the needs of our community and is prepared for emergency situations,” he said The ultimate goal of these investments and projects is to restore the Dr Ramón Ruiz Arnau University Hospital to the prestige it has enjoyed since it opened in 1975 the hospital not only strengthens its operational capacity but also improves the quality of medical care positioning itself as a model of resilience and excellence in health “The transformation of HURRA into a resilient and cutting-edge hospital is the result of the joint effort of a team committed to excellence,” concluded Mellado Ramón Ruiz Arnau Hospital (HURRA) now have an additional guarantee of medical excellence after obtaining Joint Commission accreditation an international recognition that certifies the highest standards of quality and safety in health care This achievement not only validates the hospital’s commitment to continuous improvement but also ensures its participation in the Medicare program which guarantees essential services for thousands of patients in Puerto Rico “The Joint Commission accreditation is a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to quality and safety in medical care This achievement validates the constant efforts to maintain the highest standards in every aspect of the hospital,” said Mellado López The inspection carried out by the accrediting entity included administrative aspects physical environment and surgical services The results confirmed that HURRA is up to the highest international standards consolidating itself as a pillar of excellence in medical care in Puerto Rico emphasized the impact of this recognition: “The accreditation represents a significant endorsement of the tireless work of our clinical and administrative team We will continue to strive to consolidate HURRA as a trusted and excellent health center for our community.” 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Drivers in Bayamón looking for a sedan that blends dependability with dynamic versatility will find the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan at Flagship Honda an irresistible choice Flagship Honda is excited to announce the arrival of the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan in Bayamón refined design and exceptional performance making it an ideal choice for drivers seeking both reliability and modern sophistication the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan offers a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 180 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft The Eco Assist™ System and a 3-mode drive system—ECON Normal and Sport—let drivers tailor their experience for efficiency or exhilaration Remote Engine Start ensures the car is ready to go before stepping inside they'll discover a thoughtful blend of comfort and functionality illuminated steering wheel controls and dual-zone automatic climate control provide a premium feel from a sliding armrest in the center console to door storage spaces and a foldable rear seat with a 60/40 split perfect for accommodating larger cargo items like luggage or sports equipment Tech-savvy drivers will appreciate the 9-inch color touchscreen complete with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration transforms every drive into a concert-like experience the Wireless Phone Charger and Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition keep drivers connected and on course with ease Safety takes center stage with Honda Sensing® Technologies Features such as the Collision Mitigation Braking System™ Lane Departure Mitigation System and Adaptive Cruise Control provide peace of mind on the road The Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Monitor enhances awareness while the multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines ensures precise parking every time amenities like the electronic remote trunk opening capless fuel-filling system and HomeLink® Remote Control System simplify daily routines Passengers will enjoy thoughtful touches such as rear seat heating ducts illuminated sunshade mirrors and a passenger-side back pocket for extra storage Prospective buyers are invited to visit Flagship Honda at PR-2 Marginal Road to explore the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan in person they are requested to call 787-301-0381 today Drivers can now experience rugged capability and refined comfort with the 2025 Honda Ridgeline Keeping a vehicle's braking system in top condition is essential for safety Transportation, Trucking & Railroad Automotive New Products & Services Hispanic This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. HUMACAO (Baloncesto Superior Nacional) - Christian Dalmau came one rebound shy of a triple-double as he led Vaqueros de Bayamon to a 92-83 win over Caciques de Humacao in Baloncesto Superior Nacional of Puerto Rico.\r\n\r\nDalmau, the favourite to win the league's Most Valuable Player award, scored 31 points, handed out 10 assists and grabbed nine rebounds as ... HomeNewsPUR - Dalmau leads Bayamon to victory, Quebradillas near perfect in defeat of San GermanFIBA BasketballPUR - Dalmau leads Bayamon to victory Quebradillas near perfect in defeat of San GermanHUMACAO (Baloncesto Superior Nacional) - Christian Dalmau came one rebound shy of a triple-double as he led Vaqueros de Bayamon to a 92-83 win over Caciques de Humacao in Baloncesto Superior Nacional of Puerto Rico the favourite to win the league's Most Valuable Player award handed out 10 assists and grabbed nine rebounds as .. Vida Imaging and Breast Center Owner/CEO Dr Maya Maldonado with the new MRI system installed in Bayamón which marked the 1,111th installation of Philips' revolutionary helium-free MRI June 12, 2024 — Royal Philips recently announced the 1,111th installation of its revolutionary BlueSeal 1.5T magnet which took place in Puerto Rico’s Vida Imaging & Breast Center (Bayamón Beyond its economic and sustainability benefits [2] helium-free MRI operations also increase resilience in the face of the tropical storms that hit Puerto Rico every year delivering quality care to patients who may otherwise not have access to advanced MRI scanning “The installation of our Philips MR 5300 scanner with a 70cm bore and equipped with the 1,111th BlueSeal magnet at Vida Imaging & Breast Center in Puerto Rico is a testament to the global adoption of our innovative technology,” said Ruud Zwerink The statement from the company noted it is a world leader in proven helium-free1 operations Philips has been the first to provide helium-free MR operations worldwide improving access to better care for more patients and we will continue to drive innovation in this space BlueSeal magnet technology has proven to be the system of choice for improved diagnostic capabilities while providing an answer to growing concerns about helium supply chain disruptions saving approximately 1.9 million liters of liquid helium to date,” Zwerink added A BlueSeal magnet’s ability to be shut down and re-energized in a controlled way without the loss of its liquid helium coolant means it can be up and running precisely when it is needed to treat patients noted that Vida Imaging & Breast Center which provides a wide range of medical imaging services is a vital community asset that helps patients on the remote island of Puerto Rico receive high-quality healthcare “Puerto Rico has tropical storms every year Philips BlueSeal magnet technology allows us to de-energize our MRI system to prepare the MRI department for this situation and restore operations quickly once it is safe Owner/CEO at the Vida Imaging & Breast Center In the aftermath of a hurricane or other natural disaster especially when transporting to remote locations A conventional MRI scanner requires up to 1700 liters of liquid helium much of which can be lost if the magnet has to be periodically shut down A Philips BlueSeal magnet only requires a pre-load of 7 liters during manufacturing and loses none of it described as a sudden loss of superconductivity in the magnet coil which rapidly boils the liquid helium Philips’ AI-enabled3 EasySwitch technology always ensures orderly shutdown and re-energizing of the magnet once the danger has passed With a magnet that is 900kg lighter than a traditional system4 Philips MR systems equipped with BlueSeal magnets can also be installed in places that were previously unthinkable like elevated floors or indoor sites with construction limitations the company reported that this technology is available in mobile units5 that have the potential to expand quality access to MRI exams for patients in a more sustainable2 way no helium can leave the system.2 Compared to the Ingenia 1.5T ZBO magnet.3 According to the definition of the EU High-Level Expert Group on Artificial Intelligence.4 Compared to Philips earlier (non-BlueSeal) Ingenia 1.5T ZBO magnet.5 BlueSeal MR mobile unit 1.5T is considered a work in progress It is not CE marked and not available for sale outside of the U.S More information: www.philips.com Philips Extends Leadership in Virtually Helium-free MRI With More Than 1,000 Systems Installed, Expanding Patient Access Worldwide RESEARCH FROM PHILIPS AND VANDERBILT SHOWS DECARBONIZING HEALTHCARE AND REDUCING COSTS CAN GO HAND IN HAND a clinical-stage biotech developing groundbreaking secretome therapeutics for age and .. Don't miss ITN's latest "One on One" video interview with AAWR Past President and American College of Radiology (ACR) .. 2024 — Professional registration is open for RSNA 2024 2024 — Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that an artificial intelligence (AI) model .. 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is accelerating its B2B medical device business a groundbreaking medical device company that has redefined brain imaging with the world’s .. a global provider of medical imaging analysis and artificial intelligence .. a provider of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered solutions for cancer diagnostics and .. a leading radiopharmaceutical-focused company committed to enabling clinicians .. 2024 — A new editorial paper was published in Oncoscience (Volume 11) on May 20 See All Webinars See All Videos See All Blogs See All Comparison Charts the Hyatt Place hotels in Bayamón and Manatí are positioned at the forefront of Puerto Rico's hospitality offerings with comprehensive renovations that include integral improvements in public areas and rooms as well as upgrades to their entertainment facilities at their respective casinos El Tropical Casino in Bayamón and Casino Atlántico in Manati This was announced by the owner and developer of both lodging facilities together with the management company BluHost It is worth noting that PRISA Group's investment in these renovations was $9.3 million in Bayamón and $6.6 million in Manatí which represents the creation of 209 direct "In tune with trends in the tourism industry and with the needs and preferences of guests and visitors we have worked on the renovation of the Hyatt Place hotels located in Bayamón and Manatí Our commitment to quality and innovation is reflected in every aspect of these renovations from the guest rooms to the common areas and our casinos These improvements also represent our continued commitment to excellence in our industry as well as a significant investment in the local communities," said Carlos Amy modern renovations were made to all public spaces Modernizations to the lounges designed for both meetings and social events Improvements continue in the corridors to the guest rooms with new furnishings guests will enjoy new amenities including new chairs and armchairs 55-inch flat-screen smart TVs and carefully selected artwork Considering the entertainment alternatives for guests and visitors El Tropical Casino in Bayamon and Casino Atlántico in Manati have acquired the most innovative slot machines in the market to guarantee a renewed gaming experience visitors will also be able to enjoy the new 8,000-square-foot Sazón Cocina Criolla restaurant offering authentic Puerto Rican cuisine with a focus on fresh local seafood The parking lot was also included in the improvements at Hyatt Place Bayamón with the integration of a new mural by internationally recognized artist as part of the hotel's ongoing commitment to integrating art into its environment "These renovations further elevate the standard of excellence of the properties we work hand-in-hand with The art of hospitality lies in how our team turns every interaction into a memorable and satisfying experience for our guests The upgrades at both properties provide a welcoming environment where every detail is carefully considered to ensure maximum comfort and enjoyment for those who visit us," said José M Developers Reuben Brothers and Three Rules Capital have filed their proposal plan with the Puerto Rico Permit Management Office (OGPe Email notifications are only sent once a day Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Some warn that the radical overhaul of Puerto Rico’s prison system – which was badly hit by Maria – may have dire consequences for inmates’ civil rights When Maria pounded the concrete walls and rusted iron gates of the Bayamón correctional complex last September inmates here watched in fear through the reinforced windows and metal bars without electricity for weeks,” says inmate Joseph Villalobos who sat in the open courtyard of Bayamón’s minimum security wing in the heart of the complex’s sprawling mass of structures The lack of communication with the outside world kept inmates like Villalobos seven years into a 26-year sentence for what he describes as a felony offense involving kidnap The shock of last year’s category five hurricane was just a precursor to the radical overhaul of Puerto Rico’s overburdened prison system that some warn may have direconsequences for the civil rights of inmates Six months after the hurricane hit, the island’s unelected federal financial oversight board – colloquially named La Junta – approved a suite of austerity measures ranging from workplace benefits cuts to slashing the education budget in an ostensible bid to rid the commonwealth of its multibillion-dollar debt crisis The plan led to widespread protests and civil unrest in the island’s capital Nestled away in the 200-page document was a policy to offshore around a third of Puerto Rico’s prison population – 3,200 inmates – to private facilities thousands of miles away within the US The board claims the policy will help to save close to $400m over four years The government insists it will be voluntary But advocates describe it as a disaster waiting to happen Inmate Joseph Villalobos sits in the yard in the Bayamón correctional complex Photograph: Angel Valentin/The Guardian“This is government sponsored human trafficking You are transferring people basically against their will,” said William Ramírez executive director of the Puerto Rico American Civil Liberties Union the reality is that you can’t provide consent freely if you’re a ward of the state you’re not given the information you need to actually give consent Villalobos grimaced when asked about the program Having spent four years in maximum security on daily 22-hour lockdowns he recently graduated to the facility’s woodwork program where his hand-carved biblical figures are sold on by the prison He uses the proceeds to provide for his mother and four children who visit him here once a week He worried that he would be ripped away from both his family and the progress he had made inside and expressed skepticism that the transfer policy would remain voluntary But once you’re in jail and you’ve got that sentence on you I will pick up my things and I will go because for you to go home as quickly as you can You’ve got to do everything that they ask.” For a week in July the Guardian was granted extensive access to Puerto Rico’s prison system to examine the transfer policy and the many unreported pitfalls that accompany the plan The Puerto Rico corrections and rehabilitation department wants to downsize and transfer inmates to private jails in the US Photograph: Angel Valentin/The GuardianErik Rolón’s 15th-floor office commands a panoramic view of San Juan As the sun sets over the the North Atlantic calmly but vehemently defended his department’s decision “This is something that we need to do due to the economic situation we have in government,” Rolón said “It’s an initiative that represents a very cost-effective way to provide our service.” The department hopes to transfer about 1,200 inmates in 2019 with cohorts of 700 following for the next three years At the same time it plans to permanently shutter an as yet unspecified cluster of government-run prisons on the island Despite Rolón describing the plan as “99% complete” the government has not signed a contract with the only private prison company and many of the finer details appear unresolved Neither CoreCivic nor Rolón would say how much the contract was valued at the department spent a period of weeks last month orientating Puerto Rico’s entire prison cohort on transfers to two prisons – one in Mississippi and another in Texas – that are no longer being considered for use in the program Rolón insisted his department would reorient the whole prison population to the facility now being considered – the La Palma correctional center in Eloy CoreCivic would not say how it planned to adapt the medium security prison – which still incarcerates more than 2,000 prisoners from California – to house a variety of inmate categories The company declined to respond to a list of specific questions relating to the transfer program citing “respect for the integrity of the procurement process” and “competitive reasons” Erik Rolón secretary of the Puerto Rico corrections and rehabilitation department Photograph: Angel Valentin/The GuardianAway from the organizational challenges Rolón was keen to quell criticism from a host of civil rights groups and federal politicians who point to generally poorer conditions inside prisons run for profit versus those run by the state In 2016, a stinging independent review by the Obama administration’s justice department found that private prisons used by the federal government were drastically more unsafe and more punitive than those operated by government – identifying poorer medical care and the overuse of solitary confinement as two key markers The report prompted the president to order the end of the federal government’s use of private prisons a decision that was almost immediately reversed by the Trump administration Rolón nodded and said: “I know I have to guarantee the rights of inmates We’re not going to send inmates to another state to a private prison to suffer what they don’t suffer here.” Rolón insisted all prison staff would be at least bilingual that the contract would mandate Puerto Rican cuisine be served to all inmates and that rehabilitative rights But documents seen by the Guardian indicate that private companies initially bidding for the contract had already begun to look at ways of cutting corners In a tender document in which solicitors from three private security companies asked Rolón’s department questions about the deal a private corrections group specializing in prison catering asked the department whether it would foot the bill for any legal cases brought against private providers whether the department would pay providers more money for specific dietary requirements and if providers would be expected to pay for transportation costs of inmates the company asked: “It is a rumour that 90% of inmates in Puerto Rico have a type of hepatitis could you please elaborate on the bill of health of the inmates in Puerto Rico …” The department responded: “This rumour is not true.” Trinity Services Group did not respond to multiple requests for comment A tactical unit of three officers walks around barbwire fences in the Bayamón correctional complex Photograph: Angel Valentin/The GuardianNot all operating in Puerto Rico’s criminal justice are convinced of the plan the chief of Puerto Rico’s federal public defender office expressed grave concerns that the program would lead to warehousing of inmates and make rehabilitation exponentially more difficult “When you remove a Puerto Rican from his family his community and you put him in a foreign country that has limited Spanish and a huge cultural divide between the people who guard them What you create is the likelihood of hardened criminals,” Vos said “Even if you’re saving money by sending them to Arizona You’re now going to cost yourself even more because you didn’t do the job of rehabilitation Rolón insisted the entire program would be voluntary He claimed that 1,193 inmates in the system had registered “expression of interest” in the transfer program (based on orientations that included the wrong prisons) The department later revised the number to 867 without explanation Although the secretary insisted that no inmates would be forced into the program he acknowledged that once the contract was signed the department would be obligated to pay for its full imposition whether or not they managed to find the full cohort of 3,200 transferees due to the “expressions of interest” it has already received from inmates But experts warn that the plan has already overlooked a pivotal aspect to Puerto Rico’s prison makeup: the dominance of gang culture the four brightly painted medium security wings are segregated by gang affiliation officials estimate 70% are members of Puerto Rico’s largest and most dominant gang Some estimates suggest that up to two-thirds of the entire Puerto Rican prison population are part of the Ñeta association which began in the late 1970s with ties to independence movement prisoners ballooning into a power broker in Puerto Rico’s prison network the Ñeta association functioned as a “shadow governing body” across the entire network enforcing its own rules and practices among inmates a burly senior prison officer who has worked here for decades In the immediate aftermath of Maria all four wings were place on lockdown for over a week as tensions flared between the two groups a brokered peace has led to greater stability The Guardian was invited into one Ñeta-controlled wing to meet with Isander Báez Muriel The 34-year-old is a self-described senior member of the group and the spokesman for the association’s entire prison population which he claimed to be more than 6,000 inmates Muriel’s status was confirmed by both Lt López and two other corrections officials who did not want to be named flanked by two other unidentified male prisoners López Muriel said the whole association was opposed to the transfer program as three armed guards with the prison’s tactical response unit who had accompanied the Guardian throughout the visit waited outside the wing “Every prison in Puerto Rico is against that program dressed in a white T-shirt with a large pendant concealed underneath continued: “They’d have to take me by force who has served seven years for two weapons violation convictions and did not want the full length of his sentence published warned there would be “chaos” if any member of the association was moved to the US “We understand that it won’t get to that point.” a criminology professor at the American University of Puerto Rico cautioned that such forceful opposition to the policy from the island’s most powerful association could lead to serious consequences for the government who control many of the prison kitchens and laundry units he pointed to the fact that the organization controls a significant voting block – prisoners are granted the vote in Puerto Rico – and could punish the current administration at the next election in 2020 “We have to realize that by opposing the policy they are probably trying to secure their market base and their membership,” Gutiérrez said “They are Puerto Rico’s most powerful prison organization and have controlled the system for years.” He added: “But it’s too simplistic to say it’s just about controlling the market Sports-themed graffiti in Bayamón Photograph: Angel Valentin/The GuardianThis is not the first time Puerto Rico has attempted to move inmates to the United States as prisons on the island suffered from chronic overcrowding the government attempted to move up to 500 inmates to a facility in rural Minnesota Following inmate complaints about the conditions inside the transfers were abandoned within two years and all the individuals incarcerated were returned In 2012, the government tried again. This time with voluntary transfers for 480 inmates to a private prison in Cushing, Oklahoma. In March the following year Puerto Rican inmates rioted at the facility and the program closed three months later he pointed to the scale of the project as a marker of how he believed it would succeed drawing attention to the savings his government planned to make rather than how conditions inside might be different this time because I’m sending inmates abroad but also plan to close institutions [on the island] Doing this allows me to relocate personnel and make better jobs at the institutions I have open The more institutions I have open the less overtime I can pay But overlooking the conditions at La Palma may be an oversight A 2010 California inspector general report found serious flaws in the standard of care at the facility including: overuse of solitary confinement a failure to provide video conferencing for inmates to contact family members a failure to provide a “full complement” of programming for Hispanic inmates and a range of basic security and safety flaws CoreCivic did not respond to specific questions about the audit but a spokeswoman said: “We take any inspection or audit findings very seriously and work closely with our government partners to take any corrective action necessary.” Joseph Villalobos was keen to show off the murals inmates painted on the facades after Maria hit covered the front of one building next to another painted with the Puerto Rican flag he seemed resigned to the uncertainty that lay ahead everything in prison is an adaptation,” he said “I hear people saying I would never do one day in jail But then the adaption comes in and you settle in hey I’ve got to make the good out of this time,” he paused This article was amended on 7 August 2018 to make clear that the La Palma correctional center still detains out-of-state California inmates Bayamón & Caguas exceeds national averageThe San Juan Daily StarJul 11 The Puerto Rico Institute of Statistics released on Wednesday the results of the Cost of Living Index (COLI) for the first quarter of 2024 The data indicate that the urban portion of the Metropolitan Statistical Area (AEM) of San Juan Bayamón and Caguas is 2.3% more expensive than the national average The composite index of 102.3 places the urban area in the 82nd position out of 301 urban areas in terms of overall cost of living in the United States the average cost of living is set at an index of 100 Bayamón and Caguas is relatively more expensive The composite index is derived from six main categories of consumer expenditures The rankings for the urban area of the AEM San Juan-Bayamón-Caguas are as follows: • Miscellaneous goods and services: Index 92.1 The COLI allows the understanding of regional differences in the costs of consumer goods and services The indices are calculated from data collected quarterly by different entities in each participating urban area COLI has been calculated in urban areas of the United States since 1968 using the methodology developed by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) The Puerto Rico Institute of Statistics (PRIS) together with the network of members affiliated with the C2ER is responsible for the collection of prices of goods and services established by the C2ER it has designed a comparative calculator for the cost of living between the urban area of AEM San Juan Bayamón and Caguas and the rest of the participating cities in the United States available at: https://apps.estadisticas.pr/coli/ The PRIS is an autonomous government entity with the task of coordinating the island government’s statistics production service to ensure that the data collection and statistics systems More information can be found by visiting the website www.estadisticas.pr or follow the social networks through the accounts of Facebook (@estadisticas.pr) LinkedIn (Institute of Statistics of Puerto Rico) and Instagram (@institutodeestadisticas) Chick-fil-A Plaza del Sol will generate around 150 full-time and part-time jobs •  Chick-fil-A ® Lemonade is made with three simple ingredients: lemon juice The Chick-fil-A PlayTM  App is your home for free games and activities designed to create more time with your favorite people At Doctors’ Center Hospital Orlando Health — Dorado we combine healthcare excellence with a restorative island environment — and Puerto Rico’s signature warmth and hospitality Private patient rooms designed with modern amenities and unparalleled comfort as well as top physicians and innovative technology round out the broad appeal of Dorado’s newest Joint Commission-accredited hospital Whether you’re seeking continuity in care or a place to restore wellness The partnership will enhance healthcare in Puerto Rico strengthen relationships between Orlando and Puerto Rican physicians and provide interconnected healthcare to thousands who travel between the two locations we believe in the transformative power of comprehensive healthcare Nestled within the captivating coastal region of Puerto Rico our acute care institution stands as a beacon of excellence ready to guide you on your journey to restored health a pharmacy and more on site for your additional needs Experience the solace of private rooms thoughtfully designed to accommodate both patients and companions Our commitment to excellence extends beyond our walls; we hold the esteemed Joint Commission Accreditation ensuring our unwavering dedication to high-quality healthcare standards Our medical faculty consists of more than 500 doctors and over 2,000 employees servicing our hospitals and clinics Doctors’ is recognized for its patient-centered service driven by the highest standards of safety we meticulously crafted an environment that merges innovation We're not just a hospital; we're a steadfast ally in your pursuit of your well-being specialties and services offered at our modern and technogically advanced facility in Dorado Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date with information ER Wait Times are approximate and provided for 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