LatinPulse

We celebrate the "Latin Pulse" five-year anniversary fiesta, with out-takes and excerpts from the past year, a tradition for the program.  The audience's favorite themes are on display.  Those themes include: the clash between the National Assembly and the president in Venezuela; the shift to the right in Argentina; the impeachment trial and corruption scandals in Brazil; and the Feast of San Lazaro and Santeria. The news segment of the program covers the defense by Brazil's President Michel Temer before the United Nations' General Assembly, justifying the impeachment and removal of Dilma Rousseff, an act that brought Temer to power. The program includes interviews with: Eric Hershberg of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS); David Smilde of Tulane University; Matthew Taylor of American University; Chris Sabatini of Columbia University; and  Michael Atwood Mason of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and Associate Producer: Jim Singer.  Excerpts and out-takes from this program came from these popular programs: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/cuba-venezuela-santeria-feast-san-lazaro-election-results-lp12112015 https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/political-crisis-brazil-aftereffects-obama-trip-argentina-lp4012016 https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/political-economic-forecast-latin-america-2016-lp1152016 “Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Brazil and its various concerns are again on the radar of "Latin Pulse" this week. First, the program looks at what is in store for Brazil politically and economically after the ouster of President Dilma Rousseff by the country's Congress. And how will the Temer administration deal with anti-government protests? Also, the program discusses ways to fight the Zika virus, after the disease started in Brazil but has now spread to Central America and beyond. The news segment of the program covers how funds to fight Zika and support research for Zika vaccines are stalled in the U.S. Congress. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Prof. Matthew Taylor of American University; and Dr. Reina Turcios-Ruiz of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and Technical Director: Jim Singer. The photo of protests in Brazil is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain. “Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, or trans-gender) issues at the Summer Olympics in Rio, along with economics and politics provide the varied themes on Latin Pulse this week. First, the program delves into homophobia in Brazil and how Brazilian crowds have reacted to LGBT athletes. The program also includes an in-depth analysis into the current economic and political issues facing Cuba. The news segment of the program discusses the uptick in Zika cases in Honduras and how newborns are being affected there, while civil society groups call for more access to birth control. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Jim Buzinski of Outsports; and Dan Hellinger of Webster University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and Technical Director: Jim Singer. *This program includes frank discussion of adult themes related to sexuality and sexual identity. The photo of female soccer competitors, including Megan Rapinoe (left) is a public domain photo. “Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

The Rio Olympics set for this summer in Brazil and their various problems provide the central themes this week on "Latin Pulse." The program analyzes a variety of challenges for these games including security, crime, transportation, infrastructure, and environmental and economic impacts of the games. The program also discusses the various health issues confronting these games including the zika virus and super bacteria that are present in some of the venues for water events in the Olympics. The news segment of the program covers the resignation of Eduardo Cunha, president of the Brazilian Chamber of Deputies due to corruption charges. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Andrew Zimbalist of Smith College; and Alex Cuadros, author of Brazillionaires. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin. The graphic is the official logo of the 2016 Olympics and is used here following fair use guidelines. “Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Puerto Rico and Mexico provide the central locales for the main themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program analyzes a proposal before the U.S. Congress to help Puerto Rico survive its debt crisis. But the proposal includes a fiscal control board that can supersede the powers of Puerto Rico's government, a provision that some find controversial. The program also includes a wide ranging discussion of corruption, politics and diplomacy with Mexico. The news segment of the program covers the outcome of the presidential elections in the Dominican Republic and the re-election of President Danilo Medina. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Brad Setser of the Council on Foreign Relations; and Shannon O'Neil of the Council on Foreign Relations. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin. The photo from Puerto Rico comes via the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain. “Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: www.webster.edu/communications/

Presidential politics in both Brazil and the Dominican Republic provides the twin themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program recounts the historic movements to suspend President Dilma Rousseff from office this past week along with how Michel Temer has moved initially to fill the role of interim president. This week's analysis includes a look forward at the impeachment process that could permanently remove Rousseff from the presidency. The program also provides a preview of this weekend's presidential vote in the Dominican Republic and gauges the chances for President Danilo Medina to be re-elected. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Matthew Taylor of American University; and Christopher Mitchell of New York University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Chorsie Martin. The photo of Dilma Rousseff, the suspended president of Brazil, and Michel Temer, the interim president of Brazil, is from Agência Brasil which allows use of its material through a Creative Commons license: http://uipi.com.br/noticias/politica/2015/07/27/dilma-temer-e-ministros-tracam-estrategia-para-unificar-base-no-congresso/ “Latin Pulse” is produced at Webster University’s School of Communications: http://www.webster.edu/communications/

Politics in both Brazil and the Dominican Republic provides the discussion points this week on Latin Pulse. Several segments of the program deal with the fallout from the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff and what are the next steps for Brazil's Congress as it works to remove her. The program covers the political arguments Rousseff is making to retain her office. The program also sketches the important issues, parties, and candidates involved in the presidential race in the Dominican Republic. The discussion revolves around the possibility that President Danilo Medina may win re-election on the first round of voting in May. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Matthew Taylor of American University; and Jeb Sprague of the University of California Santa Barbara. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Brittney Madison. The photo of members of the Chamber of Deputies in Brazil demonstrating and voting on impeachment is from Marcelo Camargo of Agência Brasil . Agência Brasil is the Brazilian government news agency and offers its material through a Creative Commons license: http://www.portalodia.com/noticias/politica/veja-como-deve-caminhar-processo-do-impeachment-no-senado-266238.html

Consequences regarding abuses of power provide the central discussion this week on "Latin Pulse." The program delves into the politics of impeachment in Brazil as President Dilma Rousseff tangles with members of Congress. Congress says Rousseff misled them about the country's finances. But many of those looking to prosecute Rousseff are themselves tangled in various corruption scandals. The program's analysis gives the necessary context before a Congressional impeachment vote this coming weekend. The program also looks at the reaction in Latin America to the Panama Papers scandal. The discussion revolves around the Panamanian view of the corruption scandal. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Alex Cuadros, the author of Brazillionaires; and Luis Botello of the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ). Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Brittney Madison. The photo of members of the Chamber of Deputies in Brazil demonstrating about impeachment is from Fábio Rodrigues Pozzebom of Agência Brasil . Agência Brasil is the Brazilian government news agency and offers its material through a Creative Commons license: http://otaboanense.com.br/noticia/19327/deputados%20usam%20cartazes%20para%20manifestar%20voto%20sobre%20impeachment

Politics in Brazil and diplomacy with Argentina provide the central themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program examines the meltdown of the administration of President Dilma Rousseff in Brazil as she copes with a major corruption scandal and the threat of impeachment due to charges she abused her powers. The program unravels what is behind the charges of abuse of power against not just Rousseff, but also former President Lula and other top politicians. The program also provides an analysis of President Obama's trip to Argentina and why it was met with mixed results by Argentines. Matthew Taylor of American University; and Chris Sabatini of Columbia University and Latin America Goes Global. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil and President Mauricio Macri of Argentina is an edited photo from Agência Brasil, which offers its materials as part of a Creative Commons licensing agreement.

President Barack Obama and his historic trip to Cuba provide the central themes on Latin Pulse this week. The program includes news about various details of Obama's trip to Cuba and Argentina, and in-depth analysis of the political, human rights, and business changes resonating through both countries after the trip. Although only minor initiatives were signed during the state visit, Obama's trip provides a symbolic touchstone for moving forward on improving the human rights climate in Cuba, discussing what to do with the U.S. economic embargo and resolving the issue of Guantanamo. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Bill LeoGrande of American University; and Chris Gutierrez of KC SmartPort. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of Presidents Barack Obama and Raul Castro is from the U.S. government and is in the public domain.

Cuba, diplomacy and the Cuban refugee crisis in Central America provide the primary themes this week on "Latin Pulse." The program discusses the diplomatic, business, and tourist openings that continue to improve between Cuba and the United States, including a discussion of new reforms announced this week regarding travel and economic concerns. The program also shares the view from Central America about the problem of Cuban refugees there. The news segment of the program covers the alarm this week from health officials about the outbreak of the zika virus in the Western Hemisphere and especially how Brazil is responding. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Eric Hershberg, the director of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS); and Carlos Sandoval Garcia of the Universidad de Costa Rica. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of Cuban refugees in silhouette at the Costa Rican border with Nicaragua is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain.

This is an interview with Carla Ortiz, the producer and one of the stars of the Bolivian film “Olvidados” discussing her film and the process of making it. This interview appears in context and in its shorter forms as part of two recent episodes of "Latin Pulse:" https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/films-olvidados-bolivia-second-mother-brazil-lp1082016 and https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/culture-politics-operation-condor-film-presidential-changes-argentina-lp12042015

Latin American films provide the central focus for Latin Pulse this week. The program completes its two-part conversation on the film Olvidados, which recounts Operation Condor and its human rights abuses from a Bolivian perspective. The program also reviews the top Brazilian film of the past year, The Second Mother. The news segment of the program delves into the controversy between the new National Assembly in Venezuela and that country's Supreme Court over accusations of electoral fraud and the power politics behind the swearing in of three new members of the National Assembly. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Carla Ortiz, the producer of Olvidados; and Kathy Corley of Webster University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo is a still from the film “Olvidados” and is used here following fair use guidelines for promotional materials.

Politics and diplomacy provide the main themes for "Latin Pulse" this week. The program marks the anniversary of the diplomatic opening between Cuba and the United States with a special interview recorded in Havana. The program deals with the prospects for the end of the embargo and future business ties between the countries. The program also follows the complicated corruption scandal in Brazil that has now intersected with the political movement to impeach and unseat President Dilma Rousseff. The scandal has now evolved into a political crisis as all branches of the Brazilian government are involved in which politicians should be prosecuted and removed from office. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Bob Holden, former Governor of Missouri and now with Webster University; and Matt Taylor of American University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of Presidents Dilma Rousseff of Brazil and Raul Castro of Cuba is from the Chinese government and is in the public domain. Produced for internet distribution on Dec. 18, 2015.

This is an interview with Michael Atwood Mason, Director of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage discussing the Feast of San Lazaro in Cuba and Santeria. This interview appears in context and in its shorter form as part of the recent episode of "Latin Pulse:" https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/cuba-venezuela-santeria-feast-san-lazaro-election-results-lp12112015 Michael Atwood Mason is also the curator and editor of the blog Baba Who? Babalu! http://baba-who-babalu-santeria.blogspot.com/

Religion and politics, the so-called taboo subjects provide the central themes for "Latin Pulse" this week. The program provides a preview of Cuba's favorite religious celebration, the feast day of San Lazaro. The program explores the mix of faiths that honor that day on Dec. 17, including the practitioners of Santeria and those with Christian beliefs. The program also goes in-depth on reaction to the surprising landslide win of opposition groups in Venezuela in that country's Congressional elections. The program includes excerpts from an international press conference that analyzes the political scene in Venezuela. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Michael Atwood Mason, the Director of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage; and David Smilde of Tulane University and the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA). Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. *Michael Atwood Mason is also the author, editor, and curator of a cultural blog called Baba Who? Babalu! http://baba-who-babalu-santeria.blogspot.com/ †David Smilde is also the curator, editor and author of the WOLA blog, Venezuela Politics & Human Rights: http://venezuelablog.tumblr.com/ The photo of a woman making the pilgrimage to Rincon during the Feast of San Lazaro celebrations is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.

This is an interview with Chris Sabatini of the website Latin America Goes Global discussing politics and political parties in Argentina prior to the inauguration of Mauricio Macri as the country's next president. This interview was conducted before the inauguration and prior to the recent Congressional elections in Venezuela. This interview appears in context and in its shorter form as part of the recent episode of "Latin Pulse:" https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/culture-politics-operation-condor-film-presidential-changes-argentina-lp12042015

Reflections on a special trip to Cuba provide the main themes on Latin Pulse this week. The program includes interviews with a U.S. delegation on a cultural and educational exchange in Cuba, including the delegation's leader, the former governor of Missouri. The program also includes viewpoints on the U.S. embargo of Cuba and the possibility of business development on the island. The discussion ranges through politics, economics and shared interests between the U.S. and Cuba. The news segment of the program discusses the capture of Syrians using illegal passports in Honduras to possibly enter the U.S. illegally. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Bob Holden, former governor of Missouri and now with Webster University; and Chris Gutierrez, SmartPort of Kansas City. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of a Cuban tourist bus is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain.

This is an interview with Chris Sabatini of the website Latin America Goes Global discussing the politics surrounding the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement and what it faces if the United States will participate with the pact. This interview appears in context as part of the recent episode of "Latin Pulse:" https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/evaluating-the-trans-pacific-partnership-debt-crisis-in-puerto-rico-lp10302015

Presidential politics and elections in Latin America provide the main themes on Latin Pulse this week. The program goes in-depth on this weekend's presidential elections in Guatemala and Argentina. In Guatemala, comedian Jimmy Morales is the front-runner by a wide margin but some are asking if he is a true break with Guatemala's military past. And in Argentina, Daniel Scioli leads the pack as the handpicked successor of President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, but can he make his own way? The news segment of the program covers the latest developments with the debt crisis in Puerto Rico. Eric Olson of the Wilson Center; and Peter Hakim of the Inter-American Dialogue. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of Jimmy Morales campaigning in Guatemala is from the Russian government and is in the public domain. Produced for release on Oct. 23, 2015.

Brazil and its struggles with corruption and development provides the central focus on Latin Pulse this week. The program discusses in detail the various corruption scandals that have created political gridlock in Brazil. The program also has the latest on the development of the controversial Bello Monte dam and how that project is the source of environmental and cultural damage in the Amazon region. The news segment of the program covers the speech by U.S. President Barack Obama at the United Nations calling for the U.S. Congress to strike down the economic embargo against the country. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Matt Taylor of American University; and Eve Bratman of American University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The image of various denominations of the Brazilian real is from the Brazilian government and is in the public domain. Produced for release on Oct. 2, 2015.

The seismic political shift in Guatemala provides the focus this week on Latin Pulse. The program covers both the resignation of President Otto Perez Molina due to a corruption scandal and the presidential elections that will have the country voting on new leaders this weekend. The program analyzes the impact of the United Nations' International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG, by its Spanish acronym) in uncovering corruption and supporting the justice system. The program also provides a preview of the elections and how the issue of corruption has become the centerpiece of that process too. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Adriana Beltran of the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA); and Julie Lopez of Plaza Publica. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Technical Director: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Natalie Ottinger. The photo of Otto Perez Molina, the former president of Guatemala, is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain. Produced for release on Sept. 4, 2015.

Pursuit of justice in major human rights cases in Central America provide the main themes this week on Latin Pulse. First, the program considers the potential extradition of Inocente Montano, a former high-ranking military official in El Salvador who a Spanish court is attempting to try for his part in ordering the massacre of Jesuit priests and religious workers. The second case concerns former dictator Efrain Rios Montt accused of genocide in the killing of Mayan villagers in Guatemala. The news segment of the program covers the controversies swirling around the reopening of the U.S. embassy in Havana. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Hector Silva of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS); and Kelsey Alford Jones of the Guatemala Human Rights Commission. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Announcer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock. The photo of former dictator Efrain Rios Montt is from his first genocide trial; the photo is by Elena Hermosa for the Irish charity Trocaire and is available through a Creative Commons license: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Efra%C3%ADn_R%C3%ADos_Montt#/media/File:Ex_General_Efrain_Rios_Montt_testifying_during_the_trial.jpg Produced for release on Aug. 14, 2015. The program is produced through the support of Webster University: www.webster.edu/

Looking back at the violent history of repression in the Dominican Republic is the central theme this week on Latin Pulse, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of U.S. efforts to bolster a military dictatorship. The program discusses the U.S. invasion and occupation in some depth and discusses how this event continues to resonate with Dominicans to this day. The program also explores the political and economic fallout from that invasion. The news segment of the program covers the violent transportation strike in El Salvador and how street gangs have amplified the tense conditions. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Tim Shenk of the Committee on U.S.-Latin American Relations (CUSLAR); and Lauren Derby of UCLA. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock. The photo is from the National Security Archive at George Washington University and is in the public domain: http://nsarchive.gwu.edu/NSAEBB/NSAEBB513/ Produced for release on July 31, 2015. The program is produced through the support of Webster University: www.webster.edu/

Issues in the Caribbean provide the central themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program provides a deep analysis of the issues confronting the new relationship between Cuba and the United States. Major parts of the discussion reveal how these relations are linked to domestic presidential politics in the United States. The second segment in the program discusses the racial tensions fueling immigration policy in the Dominican Republic, regarding threats to deport Haitian immigrants. The news segment of the program covers the details of the historic ceremonies to officially open the Cuban embassy in Washington, D.C. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Bill LeoGrande of American University; and Tim Shenk of the Committee on U.S.-Latin American Relations (CUSLAR). Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock. The graphic is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain. Produced for release on July 24, 2015. The program is produced through the support of Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This is an extended version of the interview with Peter Hakim of the Inter-American Dialogue discussing the Summit of the Americas, that appears in abbreviated form in the recent episode of "Latin Pulse:" https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/analyzing-summit-of-the-americas-lp4102015

The arts and the internet in Cuba provide the twin themes this week on Latin Pulse. The program includes an in-depth discussion with two of Cuba's leaders in the arts, discussing artistic freedom and freedom of expression, along with the cultural themes of their work in the theater. The program also discusses the development of the internet and dissident media in Cuba. The news segment of the program covers the rise in tensions between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands, and the U.K.'s plans to modernize its defenses on the islands. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Flora Lauten & Raquel Carrio of Cuba's Teatro Buendia; and Ted Henken of Baruch College of the City University of New York (CUNY). Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Sierra Hancock. The photo collage is from OWNI.eu which makes its content available through a Creative Commons license: http://owni.eu/2011/02/15/digital-rations-internet-policy-in-castros-cuba/ Produced for release on March 27, 2015. The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

Two years after the death of Hugo Chavez, this week "Latin Pulse" reviews the legacy of this polarizing political figure and what policies from the Chavez era still affect the current state of affairs in Venezuela. The program includes analysis on the handling of politics and economics by the government of President Nicolas Maduro and whether that government is now slipping into authoritarianism as it jails members of opposition groups. The news segment of the program tracks the successful arrests this past week in Mexico and Bolivia of both drug cartel leaders and those in government working with illegal organizations. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Hugo Perez Hernaiz* of the Universidad Central de Venezuela & the "Venezuelan Politics & Human Rights" blog; and Dan Hellinger of Webster University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola. *Hugo Perez Hernaiz is also the author of the "Venezuela Conspiracy Theories Monitor" blog: http://venezuelaconspiracytheories.blogspot.com/ "Venezuelan Politics and Human Rights" can be found here: http://venezuelablog.tumblr.com/ The photo of Hugo Chavez is from the Venezuelan government and is in the public domain. Produced for release on March 6, 2015. The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

Mystery and celebration are the twin themes of Latin Pulse this week. The mystery is provided through an analysis of the complex case regarding the death of Alberto Nisman, a special prosecutor in Argentina. The program sorts through the case linked to the bombing of a Jewish community center in the 1990s. The celebration theme comes in the form of Carnival in Brazil. The news segment of the program discusses how the Argentine Forensic Anthropology Team has cast doubt on the explanation of the Mexican government regarding 43 missing students, a case that has galvanized a protest movement in Mexico. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Fulton Armstrong*, of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS); and Rachel Glickhouse, author of the Rio Gringa blog. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola. *More from Fulton Armstrong on the Nisman case can be found here: http://aulablog.net/2015/02/09/argentina-who-killed-alberto-nisman/ The photo of special prosecutor Alberto Nisman is from the Argentine government and is in the public domain. The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

During the first month of the new year, Latin Pulse focuses on the spiritual aspects of indigenous communities as a way of providing reflection on this time of change. The program features the stories and analysis of experts on archaeology and anthropology to provide context on these deep topics. The program looks at spiritual practice and history in Mexico and Guatemala. The news segment of the program discusses the latest change in travel and trade regulations between the U.S. and Cuba, allowing travelers from the United States to travel to Cuba unfettered for the first time in many decades. The program includes in-depth interviews with: David Freidel of Washington University; and Tim Knab of the Universidad de las Americas - Puebla. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Production Assistant: Gabriela Canchola. The photo of a Mayan astrological circle is from theilr via Flickr using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/90863480@N00/2176833400/in/photolist-4jmQJm-4iRHeM-4kZMEd-4ihEm2-4mormw-4kvdxQ-4j6SjF-4ieuMe-4iVLKS-4kvdSQ-4mkAiN-4iVMbJ-4mjnY2-4jaVjA-4kveoQ-4iRHVB-4ievap-4iVMVA-4kVKxk-4kgMku-4kgMpY The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This week, Latin Pulse looks at the historic decision of the United States and Cuba to normalize diplomatic relations. After more than a half-century of tensions and embargoes, the next steps for Cuba are the central focus of this program. The program also includes analysis of the human rights situation in the country and debates the effectiveness of democracy-building programs initiated by the United States. The news segment of the program looks at the onset of recession in Venezuela and the reaction of the government to the economic problems. The program includes an in-depth interview with: Eric Hershberg of American University's Center for Latin American and Latino Studies (CLALS); and Phil Peters of the Cuba Resource Center. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola. The photo of Cuba’s President Raul Castro making a television address about the diplomatic changes is from the Cuban government and is in the public domain. The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This is an extended interview with Prof. Ramses Armendariz of Webster University on the rise of craft tequila production and the effects of NAFTA on the tequila trade. Shorter sections of this interview were incorporated into the recent "Latin Pulse" special on tequila which can be found here: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/tequila-special-lp12192014

In this special edition of "Latin Pulse," we dip into the holiday spirit, literally, by exploring the spirit of tequila. The program includes an in-depth discussion of the business and economics surrounding the trade of tequila and how the taste for tequila has changed, propelled by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The program also includes a tasting and discussion of top shelf tequilas. The news segment of the program looks at the historic proposal this week worked out between the Cuban and U.S. governments regarding discussions of normalizing diplomatic relations after more than 53 years of conflict. The program includes an in-depth interview with: Ramses Armendariz of Webster University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola. The photo is by Eric Driggers of Lake Zurich, IL and is made available through Flickr using a Creative Commons licensing agreement: https://www.flickr.com/photos/imnohero/2345543856/in/photolist-4zgwtj-5eT3WE-5VBpLC-bys2in-76HQN6-5ks865-6RXqBR-akZmyC-bdhAA-65xQqt-6pMMVK-oGTLmL-4F4rU3-bomY7s-8VLUfz-ehWxiU-8VXrsH-6XXGU-cRuP7W-aqoA6W-8WUjv3-3bptsy-65C7hQ-2bwQV-yTWbg-qfAXH-8WUjks-6m55aJ-2bLT3Q-fRVyoG-9E2hUR-29HHY-my87j1-akWtgp-4ByJ52-q2Sf9-6MkThJ-8Hog2Y-8Hog1Y-2Uhyo4-7j4YQd-aoHi1B-5wyB3K-a8zr4E-5mdqGi-61kQMW-CyaMK-HxxnB-xePfY-KTLNB To see a set list of songs used in the production of this program, please go here: https://app.box.com/shared/static/ldc79rpiv6k4cwcmn62c.pdf To hear an extended interview with Ramses Armendariz on the topic of tequila you can listen here: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/tequila-extended-interview The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This week, Latin Pulse puts its focus back on Cuba as Alan Gross, an imprisoned U.S. citizen passed the five year mark of his incarceration on the island. The program includes an in-depth interview analyzing the Gross case and what it means for U.S.-Cuba relations. The program also looks at the modern history of secret negotiations between the U.S. and Cuba and how those negotiations have subtly changed policy. The news segment of the program looks at the resumption of peace talks in Colombia after the release of a general held captive by rebels. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Phil Peters of the Cuba Research Center; and Bill LeoGrande of American University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola. The photo of Alan Gross is from the Facebook page campaigning for his release and is in the public domain: https://www.facebook.com/FreeAlanPGross The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This is the full interview with Dr. Christopher Sabatini, the editor-in-chief of "Americas Quarterly" and Senior Director of Policy for the Americas Society/Council of the Americas giving a preview of the presidential run-off election set for Nov. 30, 2014 in Uruguay. A shorter version of this interview is part of the "Latin Pulse" series program that went online on Nov. 21: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/analysis-un-climate-conference-peru-presidential-election-lp11212014

This week, Latin Pulse studies the culture of indigenous religions as the program dives into the history of the Day of the Dead. The program takes a look at the impact of colonialism on this holiday, and how those changes continue to impact Latin America today. However, the day continues to be a celebration of humanity's relationship with death and the environment. Then, in the second half of the show, the program analyzes Mayan spirituality and its central role in Mayan culture. The news segment of the program follows the evolving situation with a group of missing university students in Mexico. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Roberto Barrios of Southern Illinois University - Carbondale; David Freidel of Washington University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola. The photo is by kaizermodo via Flickr using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kaizermodo/6152552466/in/photolist-anFruN-5yVo1v-aByjUf-akWLtP-7d1v3V-81pZne-anCDxa-9ThV34-pAFeUE-pAGY9v-rn2cN-awRgGH-8PvP9y-bEYi8n-7ayEja-w2XeG-5y2Hrt-dWJZUn-5z61i6-8PsKUk-47BRvm-34DTDZ-pjdm5b-8VpoaJ-7dbuCJ-8PsYQM-5yXgQq-pGWd4j-7d5bJU-77M14k-dpygpT-oM3Nq-aBnRPv-aACvWF-5zs7pG-fK29V-5yUJ3J-3K61cf-5xVNF5-hd73p1-5yCb7x-e1cW9q-8Kx4Y8-dx1w3k-k4t5Dk-8PyVpi-7h7NWw-kNKcB-rpnmp-5yZJcS The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This week, "Latin Pulse" looks at elections and economics: Brazil’s presidential election and Argentina’s economic crisis. The Brazilian elections feature three major party candidates vying to get more than 50 percent of the vote or move on to a second round of voting. The program looks at the chances of upstart candidate Marina Silva of the Socialist Party and debates her chances of upsetting President Dilma Rousseff. The program also gives the latest on the Argentine debt crisis and explores its origins. The news segment covers the recent killing of charismatic Venezuelan youth leader, Robert Serra. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Prof. Jose Antonio Cheibub of the University of Illinois; and Prof. Leslie Armijo of the Portland State University of Oregon. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola. The graphic is from the presidential election campaign of Marina Silva and is in the public domain. The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

This week, "Latin Pulse" celebrates its third anniversary with a look back at some of the most popular interviews of the past season. This celebration has become a tradition for the program and includes a mix of out-takes and excerpts. The program follows various themes: politics and elections in Brazil; the dispute over ownership of the Falkland Islands (also referred to as the Malvinas); corruption in Paraguay; and the growth of religion in Cuba. The news segment covers the recent legal moves in Argentina to bring to justice those who covered up the stealing of babies during that country's Dirty War. The program includes interviews with: Cristina Pacheco of the State University of Paraiba; Paulo Sotero of the Woodrow Wilson Center; Mike Summers, MLA of the Falkland Islands; Andrew Nickson of the University of Birmingham (U.K.); and Dr. Reinerio Arce of the Protestant Ecumenical Seminary of Matanzas, Cuba. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Producer: Jim Singer; and Associate Producer: Gabriela Canchola. The program is produced at Webster University: www.webster.edu/

(This is an episode of "Latin Pulse" from the program's archives that has not been previously available via SoundCloud and is available now during the program's summer hiatus. The historical and political insights included in this program prove to be useful, even after almost three years since they were broadcast online.) This week, Latin Pulse focuses on electoral politics, both in Latin America and the United States. The program features a review of upcoming elections in Argentina, Nicaragua and Guatemala. One of the in-depth interviews this week also discusses the Obama administration's policies concerning Cuba and how those might be affected by the 2012 elections in the U.S. In-Depth Interviews: Bill LeoGrande, Dean of the School of Public Affairs at American University; and Eric Hershberg, Director of the Center for Latin American & Latino Studies at American University. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell Associate Producer: Vanessa Haces-Gonzatti The photo of Presidents Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner of Argentina and Raul Castro of Cuba is from the Argentine government and is in the public domain.

(This is an episode of "Latin Pulse" from the program's archives that has not been previously available via SoundCloud and is available now during the program's summer hiatus. The historical and political insights included in this program prove to be useful, even after almost three years since they were broadcast online.) Trade and economics take center stage on Latin Pulse this week, after the U.S. Congress passed free trade legislation with two Latin American countries and South Korea. This was the most significant trade legislation agreed to by Congress in 17 years. The program looks at the new competition for trade the U.S. faces in Latin America from China and considers if Latin America will become a front in the competition between these two global powers. Also, the program includes the second part of a longer interview reviewing free speech and media issues in the region in the run-up to elections in many parts of Latin America. In-Depth Interviews: Luis Botello of the International Center for Journalists; and Lauren Paverman of the Council on Hemispheric Affairs. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell Associate Producer: Vanessa Haces-Gonzatti The photo of Chinese currency is in the public domain.

This commentary is part of the "Latin Pulse" program that went online June 27, 2014: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/protesting-venezuela-celebrating-brazil-us-tegucigalpa-lp6272014 This commentary features Macarena Saez of the Washington College of Law at American University: www.wcl.american.edu/faculty/msaez/ The topic this week looks at improvements that could be made surrounding the World Cup that would make it more welcoming and friendly to women. The image is from Wikimedia and is available via a GNU Free Documentation License: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Latin_America_%28orthographic_projection%29.svg

This week, Latin Pulse looks closely at Ecuador, especially its policies on the environment and its diplomatic stance concerning the asylum of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. The program discusses the various stances of Ecuador's President Rafael Correa when it comes to international free speech movements and those in the media in his own country. The program also explores Correa's shifting positions regarding oil development in the sensitive Yasuni National Park region of the Amazon. The news segment this week covers the re-election victory of President Juan Manuel Santos of Colombia. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Rob Albro of American University's Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS); and Teodoro Bustamante of Ecuador's FLACSO. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml; and Writer: Elyssa Pachico. The photo of Julian Assange of Wikileaks and Foreign Minister Ricardo Patiño of Ecuador is from the Foreign Ministry of Ecuador and is in the public domain. “Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV. http://www.american.edu/soc/ http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm

This commentary is part of the "Latin Pulse" program that will go online May 30, 2014: This commentary series features Peter Hakim of the Inter-American Dialogue: www.thedialogue.org/ The topic this week analyzes how U.S. diplomatic policy toward Cuba threatens the next Summit of the Americas and all multilateral diplomacy in the region. The image is from Wikimedia and is available via a GNU Free Documentation License: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Latin_America_%28orthographic_projection%29.svg

This commentary is part of the "Latin Pulse" program that went online on May 16, 2014: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/crack-down-protests-venezuela-police-corruption-el-salvador-lp5162014 This commentary features Macarena Saez of the Washington College of Law at American University: www.wcl.american.edu/faculty/msaez/ The topic this week looks at the failure of Colombia to deal with the issue of same-sex marriage and marriage equality. The image is from Wikimedia and is available via a GNU Free Documentation License: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Latin_America_%28orthographic_projection%29.svg

Central America provides the central themes this week on Latin Pulse, with discussions about Panama and Guatemala. The program looks forward toward this weekend's presidential elections in Panama with a tight three-way race among the major candidates. In Guatemala, the concern is about the rule of law and the justice system after controversial Attorney General Claudia Paz y Paz lost her bid to be reappointed. The news segment of the program discusses how Venezuela is trying to reduce violence in the street protests that continue to hurt the country. The program also includes a commentary on Cuba and USAID. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Orlando Perez of Central Michigan University; and Kelsey Alford-Jones & Rob Mercatante of the Guatemala Human Rights Commission. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Associate Producers: Megan Ekhaml & Elyssa Pachico. The photo of Juan Carlos Navarro and his wife Cuqui Campagnani campaigning is from Navarro’s campaign Facebook page and is in the public domain: https://es-la.facebook.com/juancarlos2014 “Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV. http://www.american.edu/soc/ http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm

This commentary is part of the "Latin Pulse" program that went online on May 1, 2014: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/presidential-elections-panama-justice-system-guatemala-lp5012014 This commentary series features Peter Hakim of the Inter-American Dialogue: www.thedialogue.org/ The topic this week analyzes the recent controversy and revelations of a texting service in Cuba called Zunzuneo which was secretly run by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The image is from Wikimedia and is available via a GNU Free Documentation License: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Latin_America_%28orthographic_projection%29.svg

Issues of democratization in Venezuela and Cuba provide the central themes this week on Latin Pulse. The controversy over whether the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) overstepped its proper functions by sponsoring a secret communications program in Cuba provides one of this week's debatable topics. Latin Pulse also interviews one of the key leaders of Venezuela's protest movement and debates whether that movement represents free speech or an anti-democratic method to seize power. This week's commentary reviews a landmark case of lesbian rights in Chile and how that might be applied to an upcoming case in the Dominican Republic. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Phil Brenner of American University; and Rodrigo Diamanti of El Mundo Sin Mordaza. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml. The photo is by Torsten Bangerter via Flickr, using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/tbangerter/13553513954/sizes/z/in/photolist-mDFiv5-kmX6x5-kruvGF-kmS1i6-kmQP4g-kmrZaV-kSgJLy-kSgGyC-kSeYcM-kSeZSv-kSgM8Y-ku18eU-ktXEVg-6ausJ5-6ausnd-6auqhS-6aqihV-6aur8A-6auqDA-6auru3-6aqiuc-6aqhkr-6ausx7-6aqjDx-6aut9G-6aqgt4-6ausWE-6auquj-6aqi9c-6aurFo-6aqh9i-6aurj9-kRoDFA-kRoPUw-kRmN6g-kRp5ud-kRn5Ce-kRnzuR-kRnHr2-kRmLwV-kRnph6-kRoF8d-kRp4s3-kRmKnk-kRnUQV-kRn4xi-kRmVFr-kRnKs6-kRn2Sp-kRnr2Z-kRnAJK/ “Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV. http://www.american.edu/soc/ http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm

This commentary is part of the "Latin Pulse" program that went online on April 11, 2014: https://soundcloud.com/latinpulse/cuba-venezuela-issues-free-speech-democratization-lp4112014 This commentary features Macarena Saez of the Washington College of Law at American University: www.wcl.american.edu/faculty/msaez/ The topic this week looks at a famous case of lesbian rights in Chile, what was learned through the case and what it means for lesbian mothers in Latin America. The image is from Wikimedia and is available via a GNU Free Documentation License: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Latin_America_%28orthographic_projection%29.svg

This week "Latin Pulse" returns to the issues of human rights and politics in Central America. The program includes an in-depth look at the human rights abuses attached to the land conflicts in the Bajo Aguan area of Honduras. The program also looks at this weekend's presidential runoff in Costa Rica. The discussion revolves around the key issues that will face the next president of Costa Rica. The news segment of the program looks at revelations that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) secretly was behind the establishment of a Twitter-like text service in Cuba. The program includes an in-depth interview with: Ciska Raventos of the Universidad de Costa Rica. The program also includes interviews with: Nik Steinberg of Human Rights Watch; Annie Bird of Rights Action; and Alex Main of the Center for Economic & Policy Research (CEPR). Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; Reporter: Rachel Baye; and Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml. The photo of a Honduran police officer operating in the Bajo Aguan is from Felipe Canova via Flickr, using a Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/felipecanova/6209737592/sizes/z/in/photolist-asJwDf-asFLrZ/ “Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV. http://www.american.edu/soc/ http://www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm

Latin Pulse returns to its regular schedule this with a variety of items, including discussions of religion and sports. One key interview in the program covers how Brazil is preparing for FIFA's World Cup and how preparation for that sports competition has diverted funds for transportation, healthcare, and education. The program also includes a discussion about the growth of religious freedom in Cuba with a Cuban cleric. And the program also includes a commentary about the ongoing violent protests in Venezuela. The news segment of the program covers protests against violence in Mexico. The program includes in-depth interviews with: Paulo Sotero, Director of the Brazil Institute of the Woodrow Wilson Center; and Dr. Reinerio Arce, Rector and President of the Protestant Ecumenical Seminary in Matanzas, Cuba. Executive Producer: Rick Rockwell; and Associate Producer: Megan Ekhaml. The graphic is of commemorative coins for the World Cup issued by the Banco Central do Brasil and is in the public domain. “Latin Pulse” is produced at American University’s School of Communication. This program is sponsored by the university’s Center for Latin American & Latino Studies (CLALS), in association with Link TV. www.american.edu/soc/ www.american.edu/clals/latin-pulse.cfm