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strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
strict warning: date() [function.date]: It is not safe to rely on the system's timezone settings. Please use the date.timezone setting, the TZ environment variable or the date_default_timezone_set() function. In case you used any of those methods and you are still getting this warning, you most likely misspelled the timezone identifier. We selected 'America/New_York' for 'EDT/-4.0/DST' instead in /usr/www/users/scouten/mn-leon.org/modules/node.module on line 1158.
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]>
Project Minnesota/León blogs
http://mn-leon.org/commentary
enThe Declaration of Solidarity for the Globalized World
http://mn-leon.org/node/428
<p>When you wake up in the morning and you turn on you shower, think about what it’s like when nothing comes out, make a pledge to use less water.</p><p><b>That’s solidarity.</b></p><p>When you get dressed each morning and it’s easy for you to fit into “girl” (or “boy”) clothing, think about those who are excluded by the gender system and make a pledge to challenge your own privilege.</p><p><b>That’s solidarity.</b></p>Wed, 12 Jul 2006 14:13:27 -0400From Now until 2006, Both 'Voice' and 'Vote' Will be Important and Crucial for Nicaraguans
http://mn-leon.org/node/391
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>What Role</b> <b>can PML play?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" /><p class="MsoBodyText">My January trip to León this year, was exhilarating, exhausting and worrisome. This visit was my first as PML’s Executive Director, but most readers know I have a long history with the people of León and with the work of PML. From that perspective, I have a good sense that we’ll be facing an exciting year ahead.<p /></p>Wed, 29 Aug 2007 16:35:12 -0400Message from the Executive Director
http://mn-leon.org/node/312
<p>Dear PML Community,</p><p>I feel honored to be able to address you, our valued supporters. It has been an exciting first new months of my tenure as Executive Director. We have now officially moved, and our new office is housed in the Resource Center of the Americas! 3019 Minnehaha Ave. S., Minneapolis. You are welcome to stop by and visit me during regular office hours – Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. </p><p>PML’s Board is entering the beginning stages of an organizational development process. I am enthusiastic about the possibilities of better focusing our vision and strengthening our work, both in León and Minnesota. A few months ago we were presented with the opportunity to raise $10,000 to match two $5,000 pledges. These funds will be used to expand our already well established community development and advocacy programs in León, and increase our outreach efforts in Minnesota. </p>Tue, 15 Mar 2005 17:41:38 -0500Stephanie Owen, On the Scene for Miami FTAA Protest
http://mn-leon.org/node/138
<p>The free trade protesters that descended on Miami last November were all young, pierced and tattooed, right?</p><p>A few. But most were much more luscious.</p><p>Some carried puppets or giant flowers, some dressed as tomatoes and many chanted slogans against the Free Trade Area of the Americas, or FTAA, and a globalized economy. Now and then a guitar serenaded the eclectic and powerful group.</p><p>Some wore a "gapatista" sash over a white T-shirt bearing the word "Crap" in letters like those used by the Gap logo. During the demonstration, organized to highlight what protesters said was the Gap's poor labor and environmental record, many sang songs to the crowd and did what activists try to do -- educate people.</p>Tue, 29 Mar 2005 21:39:14 -0500Fair Trade in the CAFTA, Fair Trade for Nicaragua?
http://mn-leon.org/node/137
<p><em>Editors Note: The Central American Free Trade Agreetment (CAFTA) is a serious problem for Nicaragua. Colleen Gilbert, a U of M student is currently a PML volunteer in León. Here is the first of several reports from Colleen featuring interviews with Nicaraguans to inform and guide us to assist our legislators in fashioning an appropriate agreement."</em></p><p>Yaniree, an extremely intelligent lawyer here in León, joked about a time she talked to a group of women about Trato Libre Comercial, ‘the Free Trade business.’ When she first asked the women if they knew what Free Trade was about, they sat in silence, pondering. Finally one of the women lit up with excitement and declared, "I know, TLC is a popular music group from the United States!" That woman, sadly, is just one of the many Nicaraguans who remain unaware of a policy that will greatly affect their country.</p>Sun, 08 Feb 2004 15:46:17 -0500This Troubled Country With Its Lovely, Hopeful People
http://mn-leon.org/node/82
<p>As my two years in León come to an end, I have many positive feelings and only a few concerns.</p><p>I am grateful to know Nicaragua and thus have a more objective view than before, of my country and myself. I appreciate the personal growth this experience has allowed. I recognize how North American culture values action and rapid decision-making over contemplation and consultation with the broadest communities. Our wealth and materialistic lifestyle facilitates a fast-paced life which precludes enjoyment of the potential richness of our community life; precludes enjoyment of our neighbors and the spiritual dimension that life in community brings. I am concerned how I will bring what I have learned here, home with me. What creative alternatives are there for creating the same community values and authentic life I have learned to live here?</p>Sat, 22 Nov 2003 14:05:46 -0500Why Sister-Cities Are So Awesome!
http://mn-leon.org/node/77
<p><img hspace="0" src="/image/view/283" align="baseline" border="0" />Since my first experience with PML as a member of a delegation in 1997, I have had a very high opinion of the organization. This prompted me to take a year off between high school and college to work in León as a volunteer and return again this past summer for two months. This time, however, I was doing research about non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for the Program in Latin American Studies at my school, Johns Hopkins University. My goal was to look at a variety of organizations, including PML, to learn about their history and their methods of work to try to get an idea of what people in León actually thought of them.</p>Sun, 16 Nov 2003 15:26:10 -0500My Work Begins in León
http://mn-leon.org/node/75
<address><i>... a city where every greeting includes a kiss and a handshake</i></address><p><img hspace="0" src="image/view/280" align="baseline" border="0" />I have spent the past three months rediscovering traffic that doesn’t stop for pedestrians <strong>or </strong>stop signs, the presence of at least four rocking chairs in every home and "Nica-time" (meaning most meetings start about one hour later than scheduled)! In Nicaragua, the letter “S” will not be heard in spoken Spanish and people point with their lips instead of a finger. I wake up at 5:30 am to the sun shining on my face, lizards running across the walls, and cockroaches staring at me in the shower. I am treated to a kiss and a handshake with every greeting.</p>Sun, 31 Oct 2004 01:57:19 -0500Nicaragua Is Not an Image Somewhere Far Away
http://mn-leon.org/node/74
<address><i>Christine Munger's last letter from León</i></address><p>I'm convinced life is cyclical. Everywhere there are cycles. There are the big ones: seasons, birth, life, death -- but the smaller ones mimic the larger cycles. During my past year in Nicaragua I realize I passed through cycles in my work, in my relationships and in my spirit, too.</p><p>Leaving Nicaragua, it seemed so much had changed! Yet, in arriving back home, I realize that things are still mostly the same. I think cycles help us to understand the phenomenal tension between what seems to be "so much change" in life vs. life seeming to be the "same old-same old," over and over again.</p>Sun, 31 Oct 2004 01:57:55 -0500Letter from Stephanie, October 2003
http://mn-leon.org/node/73
<p>Hello friends from sunny, rainy, sunny León, Nicaragua!</p><p>Today Amati attended school without mom, an event that has brought the typical mix of emotions of both relief and anxiety (for me). I have been attending with him since he started; can you imagine a parent whispering in your ear for six hours a day, "write, tie your shoe, take out your science notebook, all papers need to go into folders, she asked if you understand, he asked if you speak Spanish, they said ... she said ... say this ..."? Chances are good he's quite happy with my lips detached from his earlobes. And, if you can believe it, I was happy being able to wash my clothes at 6:15 (by hand) rather than the typical 2pm when the sun is so hot. (Mom, you are right...one <em>can</em> wear some things twice in a row before washing them.)</p>Tue, 14 Oct 2003 20:45:20 -0400Thoughts While Meeting, In a Closet, With My Heart...
http://mn-leon.org/node/76
<p>Queridos amigos y familia,</p><p>A few weeks ago Amati and I made a spiritual pilgrimage to San Salvador for a visit to the tomb of my hero, the late Archbishop Oscar Romero. Romero advocated for government changes that would feed and educate the people, and he knew he would die a violent death because of it.</p><p>During the 1970s and 80s, death squads were hired by the ARENA government to rape, torture, and murder rural poor people in fear that the poor, restless with their hunger, might find a way to organize themselves and topple the government. The death squads were also hired to murder professors, teachers, nuns, priests, university students and anyone else speaking on behalf of lawful elections, land reform, or free education. In all, over 75,000 Salvadorans were killed, one million would flee the country, another million were left homeless, constantly on the run from the army, and this in a country of only 5.5 million persons. Most of those killed (women and children) never touched a gun.</p>Sat, 16 Aug 2003 21:07:16 -0400The Art of Leadership
http://mn-leon.org/node/68
<address>First Impressions in Nicaragua</address><p>Having been in Nicaragua for three weeks I feel that my first impressions are still developing. Each day here has been filled with additions to my experiential knowledge of this amazing country. I have been awed as the people I meet accept me into the fluid motions of their daily lives.</p><p>I am fascinated with every meal, every walk through the community and every morning shower; all seem a world away from life in the states yet in many ways feel like home. The murals that cover so many public structures in León tell its history and their same vibrant colors pop up unexpectedly in Anexo Villa Soberana in the burnt-red curtains of the house where I stay and are echoed in the color of our six o'clock sunsets.</p>Fri, 25 Feb 2005 17:11:19 -0500The American Dream: A Lifestyle of Easy Consumption
http://mn-leon.org/node/63
<address>Self Reflection: A list of common goods and our relationships to them</address><p>Asking ourselves questions about the consumption of the goods we use is an important step not only for conscientiousness-raising, but also in the overall process of taking actions to rectify our personal part in the injustices that exist in our globalizing world.</p><p>We begin best by realizing that as U.S. citizens, we belong to a population that makes up 6% of the world's population, yet we consume 50% of the world's natural resources. With such a gross imbalance, we must continue asking ourselves, "How this can be?" and "What more can I do? Or undo?"</p>Sun, 31 Oct 2004 01:58:59 -0500Personal Side of Privatization
http://mn-leon.org/node/62
<p>Greetings! I hope you all are soaking up Spring in the States. Supposedly, May is the month in which winter sets in here, i.e. the wet season. We're now experiencing a saturating hotness during the days as we wait for the moisture to fall. It's a crazy game the weather is playing with me right now -- the days are so hot and sticky and then the evenings are cool and the clouds pass over tantalizing me with their refreshment of rain. May it all fall soon!</p><p>I am getting increased commentary on how more and more "Nica" I am becoming. I suppose it's true -- I've acquired a bit more clingy style of dress; I walk down the streets with a hardened, serious face while keeping my eyes alert for tentative catcallers; my Spanish accent cuts off all 's' and 'r' sounds at the end of words (i.e. "adios" is "adio-"); I'm doing more cooking in my mini-kitchen and the main plates always include rice and beans; not to mention that I'm now a professional "pinol" twirler (a typical Nica drink made from corn that keeps its powdery substance which necessitates twirling in order to get to the goodies which sink to the bottom of the cup). Yes, others are certainly noticing these things about me, but really, I consider them normal subtleties considering I've lived here for almost a year now.</p>Fri, 30 May 2003 13:55:01 -0400Minnesota Nice, Nica Warm
http://mn-leon.org/node/60
<p>Hello from Nicaragua,</p><p>After a brief visit to Minnesota, we are now once again in León. My tail between my legs, I feel sorry I have come and gone from the states twice since I updated you last. Many of my closest friends didn't even get a phone call as a result of my visits to family in Milwaukee, Stillwater, and Minneapolis. You are my priority when I arrive in August. After both trips several Nicaraguans noted I appeared <em>un poco mas chelita y un poco mas gordita </em>(i.e. a bit more pale and a bit more chubby).</p><h2>Transitions</h2><p>Traveling <i>to</i> the United States from Nicaragua has been more taxing emotionally than traveling <i>from</i> the US to Nicaragua. After my trip last January we traveled from one shocking extreme (10 below and blustery) to the next (95 and sunny -- feels like 108), but other than that and missing my family, adjustment was fairly smooth. As a contrast, during my time in the US I felt drugged up on Nyquil: languid, spiritless. I also felt peeved and prickly with the noise of the TV, bombardment of marketing by billboards and telemarketers.</p>Fri, 18 Apr 2003 20:56:18 -0400