for more info:
nohr4437.org
Saturday, April 29, 2006
MAYO 1- UN DIA SIN INMIGRANTES
El día se acerca rápidamente y el miedo de las corporaciones americanas es muy palpable, particularmente los que emplean a millones de inmigrantes en trabajos de servicio; hoteles, restaurantes, hospitales, etc. Éstos no son miedos infundados. La ausencia de trabajadores en cualquier compañía lastimará su capacidad de proveer producto(s) a sus clientes, ya sea un producto tangible o intangible.
Aquí en Las Vegas, los casinos y la unión de trabajadores, “exhorta" a sus miembros (sobre todo trabajadores de hoteleros) que no dejen de trabajar y que mejor atiendan a una "reunión" después de el trabajo donde pueden firmar una petición que será enviada a los representantes del estado en el congreso. Esto reducirá al mínimo el ausentismo el 1 de Mayo; por lo menos ésa es la meta. ¿Va a ayudar? Mi opinión es que habrá bastantes trabajadores ausentes pero las compañías han establecido ya planes para lidiar con esta situación. Lo interesante de esta “amistad” es el hecho de que la unión y las compañías aquí encontraron tierra común. En vez de que la unión llamara para apoyar a las marchas, acordó organizar un mitin con los presidentes de los hoteles. Por supuesto lo están haciendo por pura conveniencia. El contrato entre los hoteles y la unión va a ser re-negociada muy pronto y esto le ayuda a la unión a pedir mas concesiones.
¿Y los trabajadores que?
Habrán mas marchas y habrá gente que no trabajara en todas partes del país este Mayo1, de eso no hay duda. Todo esto afectara las decisiones tomadas por el Congreso No duden que la presión de los grupos cívicos y el miedo a que las marchas podrían aumentar en frecuencia y tamaño afectará las decisiones que el congreso toma. Es absolutamente posible que si no se hace nada, la premisa de la película, "A Day Without Mexicans" pudiera ser realidad.
Aquí en Las Vegas, los casinos y la unión de trabajadores, “exhorta" a sus miembros (sobre todo trabajadores de hoteleros) que no dejen de trabajar y que mejor atiendan a una "reunión" después de el trabajo donde pueden firmar una petición que será enviada a los representantes del estado en el congreso. Esto reducirá al mínimo el ausentismo el 1 de Mayo; por lo menos ésa es la meta. ¿Va a ayudar? Mi opinión es que habrá bastantes trabajadores ausentes pero las compañías han establecido ya planes para lidiar con esta situación. Lo interesante de esta “amistad” es el hecho de que la unión y las compañías aquí encontraron tierra común. En vez de que la unión llamara para apoyar a las marchas, acordó organizar un mitin con los presidentes de los hoteles. Por supuesto lo están haciendo por pura conveniencia. El contrato entre los hoteles y la unión va a ser re-negociada muy pronto y esto le ayuda a la unión a pedir mas concesiones.
¿Y los trabajadores que?
Habrán mas marchas y habrá gente que no trabajara en todas partes del país este Mayo1, de eso no hay duda. Todo esto afectara las decisiones tomadas por el Congreso No duden que la presión de los grupos cívicos y el miedo a que las marchas podrían aumentar en frecuencia y tamaño afectará las decisiones que el congreso toma. Es absolutamente posible que si no se hace nada, la premisa de la película, "A Day Without Mexicans" pudiera ser realidad.
May 1 a day without
May 1, a day without immigrants.
The day quickly approaches and the fear of the American corporations is palpable, particularly those that employ thousands of immigrants in service jobs; hotels, restaurants, hospitals, etc. These aren’t unfounded fears. They have seen hundreds of thousands of marchers across the country express their support for legislation that will allow some sort of amnesty for the undocumented population of the U.S. and as time passed since the marches began just a few weeks ago, the significance of May 1, as the day of the worker, has become greater here in the States. Typically Labor Day is celebrated in September. In many other countries, Labor day is May 1. So, why are the corporations afraid? one simple term, profits.
The absence of workers on May 1 in any company will hurt their ability to deliver product(s) to their customers, whether it is a tangible or intangible product. This in turn affects their bottom line in unhappy customers and when you are dealing with thousands and thousands of customers daily, it can get a bit frightening. In the service industry, this is dogma. So what to you do about it?
Here in Las Vegas, the large corporations and the local union, have teamed up to “encourage” their members (Mostly hotel workers) to show up for work and instead, attend a “rally” at a very popular spot here in town where they can sign a petition which will be sent to the State representatives in Congress. This “should” minimize absenteeism on May 1; at least that is the goal. Is it going to help? My guess is that there will be plenty of workers who will be absent form work but the companies have already established plans to deal with this issue. What I find interesting is the fact that the union and the companies here found a middle ground with regards to this issue. Instead of the union calling for support from their membership for the marches, they have agreed to hold the rally. Of course they are doing it for leverage. Contract negotiations are beginning soon, so instead of antagonizing their counterparts, they are willing to cut a deal that will help the hotels get through May 1 without major issues. I am wondering if this has happened in other parts of the country.
What about the workers?
There will be people marching and missing work throughout the country on May 1, no doubt about it. Will it affect decisions made in congress in regards to immigration? In the long run, I think so. There is no doubt that the pressure that civic groups and the fear that the marches could increase in frequency and size will affect the decisions that Congress takes. It is quite possible that if nothing is done, the premise of the movie, “A Day Without Mexicans” might come true.
The day quickly approaches and the fear of the American corporations is palpable, particularly those that employ thousands of immigrants in service jobs; hotels, restaurants, hospitals, etc. These aren’t unfounded fears. They have seen hundreds of thousands of marchers across the country express their support for legislation that will allow some sort of amnesty for the undocumented population of the U.S. and as time passed since the marches began just a few weeks ago, the significance of May 1, as the day of the worker, has become greater here in the States. Typically Labor Day is celebrated in September. In many other countries, Labor day is May 1. So, why are the corporations afraid? one simple term, profits.
The absence of workers on May 1 in any company will hurt their ability to deliver product(s) to their customers, whether it is a tangible or intangible product. This in turn affects their bottom line in unhappy customers and when you are dealing with thousands and thousands of customers daily, it can get a bit frightening. In the service industry, this is dogma. So what to you do about it?
Here in Las Vegas, the large corporations and the local union, have teamed up to “encourage” their members (Mostly hotel workers) to show up for work and instead, attend a “rally” at a very popular spot here in town where they can sign a petition which will be sent to the State representatives in Congress. This “should” minimize absenteeism on May 1; at least that is the goal. Is it going to help? My guess is that there will be plenty of workers who will be absent form work but the companies have already established plans to deal with this issue. What I find interesting is the fact that the union and the companies here found a middle ground with regards to this issue. Instead of the union calling for support from their membership for the marches, they have agreed to hold the rally. Of course they are doing it for leverage. Contract negotiations are beginning soon, so instead of antagonizing their counterparts, they are willing to cut a deal that will help the hotels get through May 1 without major issues. I am wondering if this has happened in other parts of the country.
What about the workers?
There will be people marching and missing work throughout the country on May 1, no doubt about it. Will it affect decisions made in congress in regards to immigration? In the long run, I think so. There is no doubt that the pressure that civic groups and the fear that the marches could increase in frequency and size will affect the decisions that Congress takes. It is quite possible that if nothing is done, the premise of the movie, “A Day Without Mexicans” might come true.
Monday, April 17, 2006
EASTER SUNDAY
There is a strong message on Easter Sunday that doesn't have anything to do with Bunnies or Easter eggs.
It is an uplifting message of hope and new life out of death. Whether you are religious or not, you cannot help but to listen and reflect. I guess the message is stronger after you suffer some form of tragedy, distress or life altering event.
I make it a point to attend at least a couple of services throughout the year; Christmas, Easter and whenever Olivia is singing in the choir. Of course there are plenty of excuses, not reasons, not to attend. My main one is that I like to sleep in on Sundays, have pancakes and just enjoy the morning. I used to go every Sunday to church back in Mexico, now it is here and there, particularly when Olivia wants to go. She is there a lot more frequently than I am so, I suppose I should make some kind of personal commitment with God about being a regular attendee at one of our churches.
It isn't being with churchgoers, or what the preacher, priest, pastor may say. It is the message I get out of it and the connection I make with my own self or god. Is it a matter of age?
I stopped going in my mid-twenties and as I grow older, I feel the need to have a closer connection with God.
What do you do?
What do you think?
Thursday, April 13, 2006
One More Year
Another year that goes by.
Another torrent of memories unleashed.
It was early in the morning. Standing on the balcony at the Century Plaza in L.A. There was a thick blanket of fog enveloping the building. I could barely make out the railing that kept me from the ground bellow. Barely a sound around or maybe I just shut down all my senses. It seemed so peaceful up there. I did think of jumping and only one thought kept me from doing it.
Olivia.
How do I go about telling her that her mom had just died a few hours before?
Barb had just gone through a bone marrow transplant at UCLA Medical a few days before. Our hopes were so high that she would get through the transplant, but a few days after, things began to turn for the worst.
The last thing I remember telling her was that we were going to take her down into the ICU for close observation. She replied with tears in her eyes, "OK, OK." Because of pain they had to heavily sedate her. After that, she was barely conscious while her body began to show signs of deterioration. It took about 5 days in ICU and eventually her vital organs began to fail.
One by one went.
Many doctor came by, who hardly exchanged words with us. Barb's mom and sisters were always in the room and we took turns to go out to get some food or a bathroom break.
It was a certain doctor, whose face I still remember who brought us or me, into full reality mode.
He explained that my wife was dying, that there wasn't much more that they could do. He explained that all the symptoms and signs indicated that her body was shutting down and that eventually her heart would stop beating.
I broke down and cried. Sobbing like a kid whose ice cream just fell off the cone. I cried on my mother in law's shoulders and embraced comforting each other. There wasn't much else to say. The tears and sobs got in the way.
The future at that point looked so uncertain. The only thought was for my daughter..
and it still is.
Eventually she stopped breathing and then a few minutes later, her heart stopped. And just like that, our lives as we knew them, were over.
We all comforted each other back at the hotel later that morning. Barb's dad had stayed back at the hotel to babysat Olivia while we were at the hospital. We cried more after we told him of what had happened. Olivia was till asleep.
So much pain, so much sadness.
And it doesn't go away ...as easily.
Another torrent of memories unleashed.
It was early in the morning. Standing on the balcony at the Century Plaza in L.A. There was a thick blanket of fog enveloping the building. I could barely make out the railing that kept me from the ground bellow. Barely a sound around or maybe I just shut down all my senses. It seemed so peaceful up there. I did think of jumping and only one thought kept me from doing it.
Olivia.
How do I go about telling her that her mom had just died a few hours before?
Barb had just gone through a bone marrow transplant at UCLA Medical a few days before. Our hopes were so high that she would get through the transplant, but a few days after, things began to turn for the worst.
The last thing I remember telling her was that we were going to take her down into the ICU for close observation. She replied with tears in her eyes, "OK, OK." Because of pain they had to heavily sedate her. After that, she was barely conscious while her body began to show signs of deterioration. It took about 5 days in ICU and eventually her vital organs began to fail.
One by one went.
Many doctor came by, who hardly exchanged words with us. Barb's mom and sisters were always in the room and we took turns to go out to get some food or a bathroom break.
It was a certain doctor, whose face I still remember who brought us or me, into full reality mode.
He explained that my wife was dying, that there wasn't much more that they could do. He explained that all the symptoms and signs indicated that her body was shutting down and that eventually her heart would stop beating.
I broke down and cried. Sobbing like a kid whose ice cream just fell off the cone. I cried on my mother in law's shoulders and embraced comforting each other. There wasn't much else to say. The tears and sobs got in the way.
The future at that point looked so uncertain. The only thought was for my daughter..
and it still is.
Eventually she stopped breathing and then a few minutes later, her heart stopped. And just like that, our lives as we knew them, were over.
We all comforted each other back at the hotel later that morning. Barb's dad had stayed back at the hotel to babysat Olivia while we were at the hospital. We cried more after we told him of what had happened. Olivia was till asleep.
So much pain, so much sadness.
And it doesn't go away ...as easily.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Monday, April 10, 2006
IMMIGRATION MARCHES-MORE COMING
Rather than write a long essay about the immigrant movement going on in this country, I will give you my view of the whole thing.
The movement is catching white America by surprise. Not many people expected that thousands and thousands, weeks after weeks of protesters would take to the streets in a peaceful manner. When some people opposed to the marches or to the whole idea of granting any kind of amnesty for immigrants complained that the marchers "should" wave American flags and not the Mexican flag, organizers of these marches asked and suggested to their participants to wave and hold the American flag. Protesters complied and in the last two days, most of the marchers were indeed holding American flags. I suppose that after this weeks protests, the people opposed to the protests will cry "foul" about some other aspect of the marches.
The people opposed to the moveements fail to see that this is not an issue that pertains only to Mexican immigrants. In the marches you will see, besides Mexican flags, Salvadoran, Ecuadorian, and from other countries. But, it isn't just about nationalities or flags.
It is about accepting a group of people into American society. About making them productive members of society who will pay their taxes and contribute economically into the system. I am not suggesting that the amnesty should be given across the board, but rather to those who have been here for a long time, 5 years, 10 years, I am not sure, perhaps at least five years. If the figures being passed around these days are correct, at least 10 million undocumented aliens are living in the country. Of those millions, perhaps the majority have been here more than five years. Drive around any neighborhood in any major city of the United States and you will see many businesses and housing that are owned by immigrants. These people have been working hard and for a long time to attain their dreams. The irony is that many of these people are undocumented immigrants. There are ways of buying a house and or starting a business without having documents. These people have also settled in this country. They have kids who are American citizens and the prospects of going back to their native countries is far fetched. These are the kind of people that need the amnesty. There have to be guidelines to achieve this amnesty. Starting with a "penalty" fee or whatever you want to call it. Say a document fee of $1000.00 or more. If there are at least 7 million undocumented immigrants who will qualify for this amnesty, each paying $1000.00 each, You do the math.
That money will go directly to the tax coffers of the federal government. This can be used to pay back to States that are most "affected" by immigrants or to pay for social services that may need to be provided for many of them. Although, I would suggest that any new applicant or once the amnesty is granted, they cannot receive or apply for social services such as; Medicare, social security, etc. There will always be non profit groups, churches or civic groups that would step in to assist those in dire need.
Yes, they have families back home, parents, sisters, brothers. However, those who chose to stay also have families of their own and the idea of making a deadly trek through the dessert with kids in tow is out of the question.
Most of those daring to come north are single, men and young. The kind of workers that a vibrant economy needs. Now if these people can prove that they have been here at least 5 years, then they should apply. If not, there ought to be other options available that will at least keep track of their whereabouts. At the same time, the federal government needs to do more efforts to seal the border with Mexico.
There are more advantages to granting amnesty than disadvantages.
More of that later...
The movement is catching white America by surprise. Not many people expected that thousands and thousands, weeks after weeks of protesters would take to the streets in a peaceful manner. When some people opposed to the marches or to the whole idea of granting any kind of amnesty for immigrants complained that the marchers "should" wave American flags and not the Mexican flag, organizers of these marches asked and suggested to their participants to wave and hold the American flag. Protesters complied and in the last two days, most of the marchers were indeed holding American flags. I suppose that after this weeks protests, the people opposed to the protests will cry "foul" about some other aspect of the marches.
The people opposed to the moveements fail to see that this is not an issue that pertains only to Mexican immigrants. In the marches you will see, besides Mexican flags, Salvadoran, Ecuadorian, and from other countries. But, it isn't just about nationalities or flags.
It is about accepting a group of people into American society. About making them productive members of society who will pay their taxes and contribute economically into the system. I am not suggesting that the amnesty should be given across the board, but rather to those who have been here for a long time, 5 years, 10 years, I am not sure, perhaps at least five years. If the figures being passed around these days are correct, at least 10 million undocumented aliens are living in the country. Of those millions, perhaps the majority have been here more than five years. Drive around any neighborhood in any major city of the United States and you will see many businesses and housing that are owned by immigrants. These people have been working hard and for a long time to attain their dreams. The irony is that many of these people are undocumented immigrants. There are ways of buying a house and or starting a business without having documents. These people have also settled in this country. They have kids who are American citizens and the prospects of going back to their native countries is far fetched. These are the kind of people that need the amnesty. There have to be guidelines to achieve this amnesty. Starting with a "penalty" fee or whatever you want to call it. Say a document fee of $1000.00 or more. If there are at least 7 million undocumented immigrants who will qualify for this amnesty, each paying $1000.00 each, You do the math.
That money will go directly to the tax coffers of the federal government. This can be used to pay back to States that are most "affected" by immigrants or to pay for social services that may need to be provided for many of them. Although, I would suggest that any new applicant or once the amnesty is granted, they cannot receive or apply for social services such as; Medicare, social security, etc. There will always be non profit groups, churches or civic groups that would step in to assist those in dire need.
Yes, they have families back home, parents, sisters, brothers. However, those who chose to stay also have families of their own and the idea of making a deadly trek through the dessert with kids in tow is out of the question.
Most of those daring to come north are single, men and young. The kind of workers that a vibrant economy needs. Now if these people can prove that they have been here at least 5 years, then they should apply. If not, there ought to be other options available that will at least keep track of their whereabouts. At the same time, the federal government needs to do more efforts to seal the border with Mexico.
There are more advantages to granting amnesty than disadvantages.
More of that later...
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
BRUINS--WHAT A RUN!
O.K.
So my team didn't make it. They lost in the finals. Florida was convincingly the better team. Time to move on..
Busy week here at work. This weekend there is a concert for Billy Joel and the following day for "Queen" Of course Queen without Freddy Mercury is like KISS without make up, Like the Beatles without John or George, Like Katie Curic without Matt Lauer.....
Now that is stretching it...
Yes did you hear Katie Curic is moving to CBS to do 60 Minutes?...
Should be interesting...
So How is your week?.
So my team didn't make it. They lost in the finals. Florida was convincingly the better team. Time to move on..
Busy week here at work. This weekend there is a concert for Billy Joel and the following day for "Queen" Of course Queen without Freddy Mercury is like KISS without make up, Like the Beatles without John or George, Like Katie Curic without Matt Lauer.....
Now that is stretching it...
Yes did you hear Katie Curic is moving to CBS to do 60 Minutes?...
Should be interesting...
So How is your week?.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
BENGAL TIGER IN ALABAMA
BENGAL TIGER IN ALABAMA
So, while driving home today from work, I heard on the radio that there is a Bengal tiger prowling around the State of Alabama.
(No location given)
Supposedly it is a tiger with a red strap on its neck. Of course speculation is that someone had it and raised it since it was a cub and it got away from them or they actually let it loose.
Why in the world would you want a pet like that?....
I was afraid of the sharp claws that my cat “used to have”.
Each time I picked her up when she was a kitten, I’d be weary of the scratches I was going to get, now imagine a tiger cub.
What do you feed an animal like that?...
What size is their litter box?
Does it chase birds and mice?
Does is scratch at the window and howl while there are other cats outside?..
I do think every cat should have a colorful strap though…….
Do your pets have a red strap?????
Animal pets that is..
So, while driving home today from work, I heard on the radio that there is a Bengal tiger prowling around the State of Alabama.
(No location given)
Supposedly it is a tiger with a red strap on its neck. Of course speculation is that someone had it and raised it since it was a cub and it got away from them or they actually let it loose.
Why in the world would you want a pet like that?....
I was afraid of the sharp claws that my cat “used to have”.
Each time I picked her up when she was a kitten, I’d be weary of the scratches I was going to get, now imagine a tiger cub.
What do you feed an animal like that?...
What size is their litter box?
Does it chase birds and mice?
Does is scratch at the window and howl while there are other cats outside?..
I do think every cat should have a colorful strap though…….
Do your pets have a red strap?????
Animal pets that is..
Saturday, March 25, 2006
BRUINS ON TO THE FINAL FOUR!
Picture by AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez
They did it again..
Yes they are going to the Final Four. That in itself is an accomplishment, but not good enough. Now they must go for the big one; The National Championship. Just like they did 11 years ago.
Yes, time does fly.
What ever happened to; Ed O'Bannon, Cameron Dollar, Tyus Edney, Toby Bailey, etc, etc.?
If you know?.....Let me know..
Final Four Saturday and Monday, April 1 and 3, 2006
They did it again..
Yes they are going to the Final Four. That in itself is an accomplishment, but not good enough. Now they must go for the big one; The National Championship. Just like they did 11 years ago.
Yes, time does fly.
What ever happened to; Ed O'Bannon, Cameron Dollar, Tyus Edney, Toby Bailey, etc, etc.?
If you know?.....Let me know..
Final Four Saturday and Monday, April 1 and 3, 2006
Friday, March 24, 2006
WEEKEND
Hot weather is coming soon to Vegas. Currently Spring Break is here. This means loud, obnoxious, dirty and inconsiderate college students are all over the place. I was once a college student too. But, not a loud one so I cannot identify with these brutes. The girls tend to be nicer, unless they are a little drunk, but hey, it's time to "live it up" right?..
Since I am on the subject of College and Spring Break, March Madness is here. March Madness is all about Collegiate Basketball. A tournament with lots of teams playing for The NCAA National Championship. Four teams (The Final Four) will play for the final two spots to select the National Collegiate Champion. Last night was a very wild one. The Bruins (UCLA) came back from behind to beat a team that "had" it already won..... But, it isn't over till its over..
Read on..
Bruins Win
GO BRUINS!
Since I am on the subject of College and Spring Break, March Madness is here. March Madness is all about Collegiate Basketball. A tournament with lots of teams playing for The NCAA National Championship. Four teams (The Final Four) will play for the final two spots to select the National Collegiate Champion. Last night was a very wild one. The Bruins (UCLA) came back from behind to beat a team that "had" it already won..... But, it isn't over till its over..
Read on..
Bruins Win
GO BRUINS!
Sunday, March 19, 2006
ONE YEAR
Yes, It's been a year since I've been blogging. It's been fun and educational. I still manage to read some bloggs in between working and everyday living. I have seen a few bail out. Some new ones, some that grow and evolve. I think eventually the blogg world will thin out to leave mostly those who are serious about writing about a particular or specific subject and those that serve a special "need".
Mine?..
Just to keep a timeline about my own personal happenings. someday when I sit down to write my memoirs, this blogg will serve as a reference for this part of my life. I do have an interesting life.
Chapter 1 will be
Hijo de la Sierra.
Or A Child of the Highlands
It is a story that takes me from a small village, nestled in the highlands of the state of Oaxaca in Mexico. From there to Mexico City and 15 years later to the city of Los Angeles. In between; tragedy, love, tears, despair, sadness, loneliness and all those emotions that make us stronger and able to continue facing what is ahead each day.
Mine?..
Just to keep a timeline about my own personal happenings. someday when I sit down to write my memoirs, this blogg will serve as a reference for this part of my life. I do have an interesting life.
Chapter 1 will be
Hijo de la Sierra.
Or A Child of the Highlands
It is a story that takes me from a small village, nestled in the highlands of the state of Oaxaca in Mexico. From there to Mexico City and 15 years later to the city of Los Angeles. In between; tragedy, love, tears, despair, sadness, loneliness and all those emotions that make us stronger and able to continue facing what is ahead each day.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
GREEN ENCHILADAS
Someone has been asking for recipes so here is my first one.
This is a recipe for "Green Enchiladas". Enchiladas are a very traditional Mexican dish. There are many variations, including "Enchiladas Swizas" "American Enchiladas-only found in the US-", etc.
I prefer the green ones:
I think of myself as a good cook, However, I am not much for following recipes, so I hope if you follow my instructions, you will turn out a good dish for about 4 people.
YOU NEED:
4-Chicken Breasts-with bones
A Packet of Tortillas(12 to 24)-Corn works best
A Bush of cilantro
Tomatillos( about 12)-very important part of recipe.
GourmetSleuth -� Tomatillos (Husk Tomatoes)Tomatillos provide the tart or sour flavor to the dish. Most big markets carry these nowadays.
Garlic- 1 head
Onions (4)
Some type of "Crumbly cheese"
Jalapenios (6)(Or chile Serrano)-Fresh-"Not Canned!"
Cooking oil
1 container of creme fraiche (Or mexican creme, thinner than sour cream)-not sour cream
Salt pepper and all other necessary kitchen spices.
1 Blender
2 Pots
1 Pan
1 Pyrex-glass type shallow and long
Begin by cooking the chicken breasts with quartered onions, garlic, salt and pepper.
While that is cooking, clean the cilantro, jalapenios, remove the husk from the tomatillos and wash. Gather a couple of pans for cooking (boiling) the jalapenios and tomatillos with onions.
(Clean the cilantro by removing the bottom part of the stem. Some people just use the leaves, I like to use the stems as well.)
Once the chicken is cooked, remove from pot and let cool, since you will be removing the breast meat from the bones. Save the broth. This will be used for making the sauce. The meat will be used to place inside the tortillas. More about that when we get to that part.
Preheat oven at 250.
Once the jalapenios and tomatillos are cooked, drain water and you will need to blend everything that you cooked with the tomatillos (onions, garlic, jalapenios). Instead of water, use the chicken broth to add to the Sauce in the blender. Be careful not to add too much or the sauce will be runny. While the blender is going, add handfuls of colanders. Add a bit more salt, depending on particular taste.
Set the sauce aside and begin to shred the chicken-by hand.
While you are shredding the chicken, place the salsa in a large pan and place on the stove to maintain hot and also to cook off some of the liquid in case it is too runny. No more than 10 minutes.
The chicken will be placed inside the tortillas.-Soft tortillas work the best, of course in Mexico you have the "luxury" of just walking to the corner tortilleria to get fresh tortillas. Here in the states, you have to microwavethem to make them soft and manageable. You can either roll the tortilla with the chicken inside or just fold over in half (Like and actual Mexican quesadilla)
You will need a pan with hot oil to fry the tortillas once they are folded with the chicken inside. Fry to a light brown, ,not too hard-place on paper napkins or plate to drain oil.
Place the already fried enchiladas into a long Pyrex type glass ocntainer. Lay them flat, side by side or however you want. The sauce will be spread over the enchiladas, add the cheese to the top and quickly place in the preheated oven.
While the pan is ine over for about 10 minutes, set the table, get your favorite beer out and then serve the enchiladas.
Add more cheese, add cream on top, sliced onions to tatse and maybe some shredded cilantro for garnish or whole leaves.
A dish with 4 or five enchiladas has enough nutrients and flavor tha you do not need anything else to go with them
However,
Enchiladas can be served with refried beans (That will be my next recipe for you) IN the meantime, canned refried beans are OK. You can also serve with rice (Another Mexican dish with lots of variations)
Enjoy!
This is a recipe for "Green Enchiladas". Enchiladas are a very traditional Mexican dish. There are many variations, including "Enchiladas Swizas" "American Enchiladas-only found in the US-", etc.
I prefer the green ones:
I think of myself as a good cook, However, I am not much for following recipes, so I hope if you follow my instructions, you will turn out a good dish for about 4 people.
YOU NEED:
4-Chicken Breasts-with bones
A Packet of Tortillas(12 to 24)-Corn works best
A Bush of cilantro
Tomatillos( about 12)-very important part of recipe.
GourmetSleuth -� Tomatillos (Husk Tomatoes)Tomatillos provide the tart or sour flavor to the dish. Most big markets carry these nowadays.
Garlic- 1 head
Onions (4)
Some type of "Crumbly cheese"
Jalapenios (6)(Or chile Serrano)-Fresh-"Not Canned!"
Cooking oil
1 container of creme fraiche (Or mexican creme, thinner than sour cream)-not sour cream
Salt pepper and all other necessary kitchen spices.
1 Blender
2 Pots
1 Pan
1 Pyrex-glass type shallow and long
Begin by cooking the chicken breasts with quartered onions, garlic, salt and pepper.
While that is cooking, clean the cilantro, jalapenios, remove the husk from the tomatillos and wash. Gather a couple of pans for cooking (boiling) the jalapenios and tomatillos with onions.
(Clean the cilantro by removing the bottom part of the stem. Some people just use the leaves, I like to use the stems as well.)
Once the chicken is cooked, remove from pot and let cool, since you will be removing the breast meat from the bones. Save the broth. This will be used for making the sauce. The meat will be used to place inside the tortillas. More about that when we get to that part.
Preheat oven at 250.
Once the jalapenios and tomatillos are cooked, drain water and you will need to blend everything that you cooked with the tomatillos (onions, garlic, jalapenios). Instead of water, use the chicken broth to add to the Sauce in the blender. Be careful not to add too much or the sauce will be runny. While the blender is going, add handfuls of colanders. Add a bit more salt, depending on particular taste.
Set the sauce aside and begin to shred the chicken-by hand.
While you are shredding the chicken, place the salsa in a large pan and place on the stove to maintain hot and also to cook off some of the liquid in case it is too runny. No more than 10 minutes.
The chicken will be placed inside the tortillas.-Soft tortillas work the best, of course in Mexico you have the "luxury" of just walking to the corner tortilleria to get fresh tortillas. Here in the states, you have to microwavethem to make them soft and manageable. You can either roll the tortilla with the chicken inside or just fold over in half (Like and actual Mexican quesadilla)
You will need a pan with hot oil to fry the tortillas once they are folded with the chicken inside. Fry to a light brown, ,not too hard-place on paper napkins or plate to drain oil.
Place the already fried enchiladas into a long Pyrex type glass ocntainer. Lay them flat, side by side or however you want. The sauce will be spread over the enchiladas, add the cheese to the top and quickly place in the preheated oven.
While the pan is ine over for about 10 minutes, set the table, get your favorite beer out and then serve the enchiladas.
Add more cheese, add cream on top, sliced onions to tatse and maybe some shredded cilantro for garnish or whole leaves.
A dish with 4 or five enchiladas has enough nutrients and flavor tha you do not need anything else to go with them
However,
Enchiladas can be served with refried beans (That will be my next recipe for you) IN the meantime, canned refried beans are OK. You can also serve with rice (Another Mexican dish with lots of variations)
Enjoy!
Friday, March 03, 2006
Month Long Absence
Yes, it has been a month.
A month without writing, not that I don't have anything to write about, I have just been busy with work..and with everyday life.
At work- I cannot believe the stupidity of people over the simplest things---
"I cannot have any bread, so can you make a sandwich without bread?"
Of course the answer is yes (All for customer service).....
My questions is:
If you cannot have bread in your diet, why walk into an establishment where the specialty is Sandwiches?.... Why not try a coffe shop or buffet?, for crying outloud, it is Vegas!
Don't feel offended if you fall in this category-It is called "planning ahead"
Another one is:
"Can you make a sandwich with my own bread?----I have my own bread"
That is definitely a no- no.
It goes against health regulations, then again, if you carry your own particular kind of bread around, why not go to the store and buy the ingredients to make your own?..
At home- Just hanging out when I get the chance.
Reading books, trying to relax after the stress of work.
(Currently reading- The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova)
Just venting.......
and you.
How've you been?...
A month without writing, not that I don't have anything to write about, I have just been busy with work..and with everyday life.
At work- I cannot believe the stupidity of people over the simplest things---
"I cannot have any bread, so can you make a sandwich without bread?"
Of course the answer is yes (All for customer service).....
My questions is:
If you cannot have bread in your diet, why walk into an establishment where the specialty is Sandwiches?.... Why not try a coffe shop or buffet?, for crying outloud, it is Vegas!
Don't feel offended if you fall in this category-It is called "planning ahead"
Another one is:
"Can you make a sandwich with my own bread?----I have my own bread"
That is definitely a no- no.
It goes against health regulations, then again, if you carry your own particular kind of bread around, why not go to the store and buy the ingredients to make your own?..
At home- Just hanging out when I get the chance.
Reading books, trying to relax after the stress of work.
(Currently reading- The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova)
Just venting.......
and you.
How've you been?...
Monday, February 06, 2006
NOW WHAT!
Yes, now what!
Football season is over, Texas beat USC in college football. March madness is coming up (College Basketball) but still, NBA, don't follow it enough, at least not until the playoffs.
SO, the US Government "pressures" the Starwood chain of hotels (Westin, Sheraton, W, etc.) to kick out a Cuban delegation out of the hotel where they were staying to conduct meetings with US Businessmen.
Yes, I know there is an embargo against Cuba, However, this happened in Mexico City!. Of course the Federal Government there (Currently PAN) decided to stay out of this sticky situation by claiming that it was an issue between "private individuals." The hotel even kept all monies previously paid by the Cubans for their reservation.
I doubt that the embargo was the reason behind the removal of the Cubans out of their hotel. Simply because if the embargo was to be applied constantly and frequently, we would have plenty of people all over the world getting kicked out of their rooms, since most hotel companies or chains, tend to be American.
American businessmen, even Senators have gone to Cuba for one reason or another, why have they not been stopped?
Maybe it had to do with an American company trying to do business with a Cuban company which would have a negative effect on one of George Bush's interests or a friend's?...
Just pure speculation here.
Football season is over, Texas beat USC in college football. March madness is coming up (College Basketball) but still, NBA, don't follow it enough, at least not until the playoffs.
SO, the US Government "pressures" the Starwood chain of hotels (Westin, Sheraton, W, etc.) to kick out a Cuban delegation out of the hotel where they were staying to conduct meetings with US Businessmen.
Yes, I know there is an embargo against Cuba, However, this happened in Mexico City!. Of course the Federal Government there (Currently PAN) decided to stay out of this sticky situation by claiming that it was an issue between "private individuals." The hotel even kept all monies previously paid by the Cubans for their reservation.
I doubt that the embargo was the reason behind the removal of the Cubans out of their hotel. Simply because if the embargo was to be applied constantly and frequently, we would have plenty of people all over the world getting kicked out of their rooms, since most hotel companies or chains, tend to be American.
American businessmen, even Senators have gone to Cuba for one reason or another, why have they not been stopped?
Maybe it had to do with an American company trying to do business with a Cuban company which would have a negative effect on one of George Bush's interests or a friend's?...
Just pure speculation here.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Blogg Abandonment
Another blogger who I read on and off is giving it all up. Because of hackers and her constant "fixing" of her website, etc, etc... She is leaving and not writing anymore. Why do people take bloggs so seriously?..
I know there is time invested in writing, thinking, etc. But, is it that big of a deal that people mess with their; settings, pictures or just write negative comments on their bloggs?.
I think when you put something out there for anyone to see and read, you can expect a lot of reactions. Now, if they are accessing your personal files on your computer, that is more of a security issue that needs to be addressed by blogger or your own security settings, or software.
Maybe they will start a new blogg under a different name, then again,
who cares?
I know there is time invested in writing, thinking, etc. But, is it that big of a deal that people mess with their; settings, pictures or just write negative comments on their bloggs?.
I think when you put something out there for anyone to see and read, you can expect a lot of reactions. Now, if they are accessing your personal files on your computer, that is more of a security issue that needs to be addressed by blogger or your own security settings, or software.
Maybe they will start a new blogg under a different name, then again,
who cares?
Monday, January 23, 2006
PATTERN
Last I blogged:
Monday January 2
Monday January 9
Monday January 16
Now I am getting ready to write a new post....Notice a pattern here?....
Anyways.
Today is Monday and though there is so much I could talk, write, post, blogg about, I cannot find something meaningful that you would be interested in.
Aside from telling you about the weather cold), there isn't much else. I am off from work on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Here is a topic-People that come knocking at your door to sell you stuff!
I just had to answer the door for some guy "raising" money for his class at UNLV(local university).
He is selling books and part of the collected price goes to the fundraiser. I was about to buy one when I realized that I had run out of checks to write.
He was OK with me not having checks and just left to bother someone else...
Now that I think about it he did have a nice silver Movado watch on (About 800.00 worth...)
I wonder how much of his own money he's contributing .......
I hate fundraisers.....(Including the ones for the kid's school)
Monday January 2
Monday January 9
Monday January 16
Now I am getting ready to write a new post....Notice a pattern here?....
Anyways.
Today is Monday and though there is so much I could talk, write, post, blogg about, I cannot find something meaningful that you would be interested in.
Aside from telling you about the weather cold), there isn't much else. I am off from work on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Here is a topic-People that come knocking at your door to sell you stuff!
I just had to answer the door for some guy "raising" money for his class at UNLV(local university).
He is selling books and part of the collected price goes to the fundraiser. I was about to buy one when I realized that I had run out of checks to write.
He was OK with me not having checks and just left to bother someone else...
Now that I think about it he did have a nice silver Movado watch on (About 800.00 worth...)
I wonder how much of his own money he's contributing .......
I hate fundraisers.....(Including the ones for the kid's school)
Monday, January 16, 2006
SICK< SICK< SICK
What is going on in this world?
What is going on in this country?.
A little girl was found in a dumpster here in Vegas last week. Police are of course investigating....Read here
Another girl-was beaten to death by her step father, while her mom watched and did nothing.Daily News
This was in NY- (Heard it this morning in the news).
That is just the latest, now if we go back every month for the last year or years, there isn't a time when you do not hear or read a bout children being mistreated, starved, beaten, abused and more.
Do we as a society not give a dime about children?.. Is it the government that is not doing its job to protect kids? It sure isn't the church that is getting high marks either..
Somebody has to do something about it.
But whom.
I cringe at the tought of my daughter being hurt in any shape or form. As you've heard before from many caring and loving parents that they would kill anyone with their bare hands if they hurt theirs, I probably would too.
Is that kind of blindness, that would allow us to kill a stranger, the same blindness that allows other people to hurt their own kids or someone else's?..
Does any ounze of guilt or remorse go through their minds as they are commiting their crime?.. I don't know.
I just pray to God that I am never blinded by hatred, evil or malice to hurt someone, much less a child.
I will do my part by taking care of my kid and those around me and those whom I cannot protect I will say a prayer for them.
It has to start with us as responsible caring and loving parents.
What is going on in this country?.
A little girl was found in a dumpster here in Vegas last week. Police are of course investigating....Read here
Another girl-was beaten to death by her step father, while her mom watched and did nothing.Daily News
This was in NY- (Heard it this morning in the news).
That is just the latest, now if we go back every month for the last year or years, there isn't a time when you do not hear or read a bout children being mistreated, starved, beaten, abused and more.
Do we as a society not give a dime about children?.. Is it the government that is not doing its job to protect kids? It sure isn't the church that is getting high marks either..
Somebody has to do something about it.
But whom.
I cringe at the tought of my daughter being hurt in any shape or form. As you've heard before from many caring and loving parents that they would kill anyone with their bare hands if they hurt theirs, I probably would too.
Is that kind of blindness, that would allow us to kill a stranger, the same blindness that allows other people to hurt their own kids or someone else's?..
Does any ounze of guilt or remorse go through their minds as they are commiting their crime?.. I don't know.
I just pray to God that I am never blinded by hatred, evil or malice to hurt someone, much less a child.
I will do my part by taking care of my kid and those around me and those whom I cannot protect I will say a prayer for them.
It has to start with us as responsible caring and loving parents.
Monday, January 09, 2006
GADGETS IN MY POCKETS
As requested:
What I have in my pockets.
It hardly varies, aside from small pieces of paper or coins, this is pretty much what you would find in my pockets any time of the day.
Car Keys,
Wallet,
Ipod-(Not always)
Palm pilot (Most of the time)
Now, if you were to ask me to take a picture of everything that I have in my car......Forget it!
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
SAD STORIES
I was tagged by Utterly DrunkBulb about writing sad stories.
Is it sad that you cannot see your parent or parents for over 7 years?..
Of course it is, even if it iis for a few days or years, or never again.
Yes That is sad. I was deprived of the presence of my mother from the age of 12 'till about 19.
Of course this was due to issues between my father and her. When they split up, I stayed with my dad. After that, she moved out of town, along with my younger sisters and brother, and that was it.
There were many days of sadness and tears and I don't think I ever got over not seeing her.
I always missed her to the point where I was ready to call "mom" to the couple of women that my dad dated or lived with after.
Once she came back into my life, Nothing was the same, I was happy to see her again, but I did not want to be around her as much as I would have thought. We still have a good relationship till now, but it is sad to say that There is no mother son love there, she might as well be an aunt that I haven't see for years.
Sad isn't it?
Is it sad that you cannot see your parent or parents for over 7 years?..
Of course it is, even if it iis for a few days or years, or never again.
Yes That is sad. I was deprived of the presence of my mother from the age of 12 'till about 19.
Of course this was due to issues between my father and her. When they split up, I stayed with my dad. After that, she moved out of town, along with my younger sisters and brother, and that was it.
There were many days of sadness and tears and I don't think I ever got over not seeing her.
I always missed her to the point where I was ready to call "mom" to the couple of women that my dad dated or lived with after.
Once she came back into my life, Nothing was the same, I was happy to see her again, but I did not want to be around her as much as I would have thought. We still have a good relationship till now, but it is sad to say that There is no mother son love there, she might as well be an aunt that I haven't see for years.
Sad isn't it?
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