New 2025 RAM 1500 | The Strongest Ram 1500 Ever

 The 2025 Ram 1500 continues to solidify its position as one of the premier options in the full-size pickup truck segment. Combining bold exterior styling, a luxurious interior, and an impressive balance of performance and technology, this latest iteration of Ram's flagship truck is designed to appeal to a wide range of buyers, from those seeking workhorse reliability to those wanting luxury and comfort. Here's a detailed review covering the exterior, interior, performance, and overall impressions of the 2025 Ram 1500.

Exterior Design: Rugged Yet Refined

The 2025 Ram 1500 boasts an assertive and modern design, characterized by its bold front grille and sleek LED headlights. The truck maintains its muscular stance, with strong lines running down the sides that give it a sense of strength and durability. This version comes with a redesigned front fascia that offers a more aggressive look, while the wide chrome accents across the grille add a touch of elegance to its rugged persona.

Ram’s attention to detail is evident in the subtle aerodynamic tweaks, such as the sculpted hood and integrated air vents, which not only enhance the truck's performance but also improve its fuel efficiency. Available in a variety of colors, the metallic black finish with chrome touches adds an extra level of sophistication. Large alloy wheels and the lifted suspension create a powerful image, making the Ram 1500 a head-turner whether on city streets or off-road trails.

Interior: Comfort Meets Technology

Step inside the 2025 Ram 1500, and you'll find an interior that rivals many luxury sedans. The cabin is spacious and beautifully designed, featuring high-quality materials that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The model we reviewed comes with black leather seating that exudes comfort and class, complemented by wood accents across the dashboard and doors. The craftsmanship is top-notch, ensuring that this truck is as comfortable for long road trips as it is for daily driving or heavy-duty work.

The centerpiece of the interior is the updated 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Positioned prominently on the center console, this touchscreen is intuitive, responsive, and loaded with features. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. The truck also features an advanced driver information display that combines digital and analog elements, offering a futuristic feel while maintaining some traditional aesthetics.

The 2025 Ram 1500 does not skimp on convenience features either. Ambient lighting, multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof are available in higher trims. The rear seats offer generous legroom, and with the optional reclining seats and added storage under the rear seats, passengers in the back enjoy the same level of comfort as those up front.

Performance: Power and Precision

Under the hood, the 2025 Ram 1500 offers several engine options to cater to different needs. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6 with eTorque mild-hybrid technology, delivering a respectable 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with or without eTorque is available, pumping out up to 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.

For drivers prioritizing towing capacity, the Ram 1500 excels with a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds when properly equipped. The addition of air suspension not only helps with handling heavy loads but also improves the truck's overall ride quality. The 2025 model year also includes off-road-focused features like skid plates, an electronic locking rear differential, and all-terrain tires, ensuring that the Ram 1500 is just as capable on rocky trails as it is on highways.

A new hybrid option is also expected, further enhancing fuel economy without sacrificing performance. Ram is continuing its effort to balance power and efficiency, appealing to buyers looking for both performance and eco-friendliness.

Technology and Safety: Cutting-Edge Features

Ram has packed the 2025 Ram 1500 with a host of advanced technologies. In addition to the massive touchscreen, it includes a heads-up display, 360-degree camera, and adaptive cruise control. The suite of driver assistance features—adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist—makes driving safer and more convenient, whether you're on a long highway drive or navigating a crowded city.

The Ram 1500's infotainment system has been further enhanced with a new voice-activated assistant, making hands-free control easier and more intuitive. With customizable settings for climate control, navigation, and media, the truck’s tech-savvy interior is designed to make life on the road more connected and comfortable.

Overall Impression: The Complete Package

The 2025 Ram 1500 strikes the perfect balance between rugged capability and refined luxury. Whether you need a reliable work truck or a vehicle for family road trips, the Ram 1500 offers versatility in spades. Its bold, aggressive exterior design catches the eye, while the interior provides luxury and cutting-edge technology that make every drive enjoyable. With its wide range of powertrain options, class-leading towing capacity, and a full suite of safety features, the 2025 Ram 1500 continues to set the standard in the full-size truck category.

For anyone in the market for a new truck that offers style, power, and comfort, the 2025 Ram 1500 should be at the top of your list.

Minimizing Tax Liability On Death

 

What Will Your Tax Liability be?

When we die, most of us leave behind a fairly substantial and intricate web of assets and liabilities, including money, our home and our other possessions. In most jurisdictions, there arises a liability to tax on death that must be borne from the totality of the estate, and this can lead to a significant reduction of inheritance for our loved ones. Having said that, there are a number of ways in which liability to tax on death can be vastly reduced whilst still ensuring sufficient legacies and provisions mortis causa. In this article, we will look at some of the most salient ways in which one can seek to minimize his estate's liability to tax on death, and ways in which careful planning can help increase the legacies we leave behind.

Tax liability on death usually arises through bad inheritance planning, and a lack of legal consideration. Of course to a certain extent it is unavoidable, but with some care and consideration it is possible to reduce liability overall. There's absolutely no point in making legacies in a will which won't be fulfilled until after death and which haven't been properly considered in light of the relevant legal provisions. If you haven't done so already, it is extremely advisable to consult an attorney on minimizing liability on death, and on effective estate planning to avoid these potential problems and to ensure your family are left with more in their pockets.

Ensuring Legacies for Family Members

If you intend to leave legacies to family members of a specific quantity or nature, it may be wise to do so at least a decade before you die, which will ultimately divert any potential legal challenges upon death which would give rise to tax liability. Obviously there is seldom any way to tell precisely when you are going to die, but making legacies at least a decade beforehand avoids any liability that might be attached on death. In effect, donating during your lifetime well before you die means you can still provide for your family and friend without having to pay the corresponding tax bill.

Another good way to minimize tax liability is to get rid of assets during your lifetime by way of gifts to friends and family. One of the most effective ways to do this is to transfer your house to your children during your lifetime, or to move the house into a trust for which you are a beneficiary. This means you remain functionally the owner, but legally, the asset doesn't feature in your estate on death and therefore doesn't attract tax liability. Again, it is of great importance to ensure that the transfer is made well before death to avoid potential challenges and potential inclusion in the estate which would lead to inheritance tax liability.

Careful Planning Needed

Death is a particularly important phase in our lives, particularly in legal terms. The change between owning our own property and distributing ownerless property provides a range of challenges, and the controversial tax implications can cause serious problems. Without careful planning and an expert hand, it can be easy to amass a significant tax bill for your loved ones to bear. However, with the right direction, it can be easy to use the relevant mechanisms to minimize the potential liability to tax on your estate upon death.

The Foraker Act

 

A Key Chapter in Puerto Rico’s Political History and Its Lasting Effects

The Foraker Act of 1900, formally known as the Organic Act of 1900, was a pivotal moment in Puerto Rico’s history. It established a civil government on the island after it became a U.S. territory following the Spanish-American War of 1898. This law laid the foundation for Puerto Rico's relationship with the United States and shaped its political and social structure in ways that continue to influence the island today.

This post will examine the key provisions of the Foraker Act, its historical context, and the lasting effects it has had on Puerto Rico’s political status, governance, and identity.

Historical Context: The Spanish-American War and Puerto Rico’s Transition to U.S. Rule

In 1898, the Spanish-American War resulted in Spain’s defeat and the signing of the Treaty of Paris. As part of this treaty, Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States. Puerto Rico, which had been a Spanish colony for over 400 years, suddenly found itself under U.S. rule. The island’s political future became uncertain, and the United States had to decide how to govern its newly acquired territory.

Initially, Puerto Rico was placed under military rule. However, there was widespread recognition that a more permanent solution was needed. This led to the drafting and passage of the Foraker Act, named after Senator Joseph B. Foraker of Ohio, who was instrumental in its creation.

Key Provisions of the Foraker Act

The Foraker Act established a civilian government for Puerto Rico, ending the brief period of military rule. However, while it allowed for some local control, the island remained firmly under U.S. authority. The act had several key provisions:

1. Establishment of a Governor: The governor of Puerto Rico would be appointed by the President of the United States. This placed significant executive power in the hands of a U.S. appointee, rather than a locally elected official.

2. Bicameral Legislature: The act created a bicameral legislature for Puerto Rico, consisting of the Executive Council (the upper house) and the House of Delegates (the lower house). The Executive Council was appointed by the U.S. government, while members of the House of Delegates were elected by Puerto Rican voters. This structure allowed for limited local participation in governance but ensured that ultimate control remained in U.S. hands.

3. Judicial System: The Foraker Act established a judicial system in Puerto Rico, with a Supreme Court and lower courts. Federal cases from Puerto Rico could be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, further cementing the island's integration into the U.S. legal system.

4. U.S. Citizenship Exclusion: One of the most contentious aspects of the Foraker Act was that it did not grant Puerto Ricans U.S. citizenship. Instead, it created a new status called “Puerto Rican citizenship,” which left the island’s residents in a legal limbo. They were neither citizens of the United States nor fully independent.

5. Trade and Tariffs: The Foraker Act established that goods traded between Puerto Rico and the United States would be subject to tariffs and customs duties. This created economic challenges for the island, as it effectively treated Puerto Rico as a foreign entity for trade purposes.

The Lasting Effects of the Foraker Act on Puerto Rico

The Foraker Act was a turning point in Puerto Rico’s history, and its impact continues to resonate today. Several lasting effects can be traced back to this legislation.

1. Puerto Rico’s Political Status as a U.S. Territory: The Foraker Act was the first step in defining Puerto Rico’s status as an unincorporated territory of the United States. This meant that the island belonged to the United States but was not on a path toward statehood. This ambiguous status persists to this day, leaving Puerto Rico in a state of limbo between full integration and independence.

Subsequent legislation, such as the Jones Act of 1917, granted U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans but did not resolve the broader questions of the island’s political status. Today, Puerto Rico remains a U.S. territory, and debates over statehood, independence, or continued territorial status continue to dominate its political discourse.

2. Limited Local Autonomy: The Foraker Act provided some degree of local governance, but the real power remained with U.S. officials. The governor was appointed by the U.S. president, and the upper house of the legislature was controlled by U.S. appointees. While Puerto Ricans could elect members of the lower house, their ability to influence decisions was limited.

This system of limited self-government set a precedent for future governance on the island. Even after the establishment of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico in 1952, many of the island’s key decisions, particularly those related to defense, foreign policy, and certain aspects of economic regulation, remain under U.S. control.

3. Economic Dependency: The trade and tariff provisions of the Foraker Act created economic challenges for Puerto Rico. The island was treated as a foreign entity for trade purposes, making it subject to tariffs and duties on goods imported from the U.S. This stifled economic growth and contributed to Puerto Rico’s long-standing economic dependency on the mainland.

While some of these trade restrictions were lifted in subsequent years, the Foraker Act’s legacy of economic dependency has persisted. Puerto Rico continues to struggle with high levels of debt, unemployment, and poverty, and its economy remains closely tied to the U.S. mainland.

4. Identity and Citizenship: One of the most profound and lasting effects of the Foraker Act was its impact on Puerto Rican identity and citizenship. By creating a separate Puerto Rican citizenship and excluding the island’s residents from U.S. citizenship, the act placed Puerto Ricans in a unique and ambiguous legal position.

Even after U.S. citizenship was granted in 1917, the question of Puerto Rican identity remains complex. Many Puerto Ricans feel a deep sense of pride in their distinct cultural heritage, while others advocate for closer integration with the United States. This tension between Puerto Rican identity and U.S. citizenship continues to shape the island’s political and social landscape.

Conclusion

The Foraker Act of 1900 was a foundational moment in Puerto Rico’s history, shaping the island’s political, economic, and social trajectory for over a century. While it provided a framework for civil government, it also entrenched Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory with limited autonomy. The act’s legacy continues to influence debates over the island’s political status, economic dependency, and cultural identity, making it a crucial chapter in understanding Puerto Rico’s ongoing relationship with the United States.

Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade

 

the Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade is back for its 38th anniversary taking place this October! This is a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Puerto Rican community in the Bronx. The Parade will kick off with a fantastic Gala on a Thursday evening filled with joy, music, food, networking and celebration! Registration for the Gala and the Parade is now open!

Gala:

Thursday October 17th

Villa Barone Manor, 6pm

737 Throggs Neck Expressway,Bronx, NY

Parade:

Saturday October 19th

on The Grand Concourse between E 164th Street & Mount Eden Ave, 11AM

For more info please email: infoprparade@yahoo.com

Bombazo Dance Co. | Bomba Dance Company

 

Bombazo is New York’s leading Bomba dance company. A 501(c)- 3 non-profit Bronx-based drum and dance organization, whose mission is to preserve, educate and showcase traditional Bomba and Afro Caribbean and traditional folkloric elements. Founded and directed by Puerto Rican Native, Bomba master dancer, and choreographer: Milteri Tucker Concepcion. At Bombazo we further combine Bomba main ingredients and fuse them with classical, contemporary, and social styles of dance, thus, creating a new movement vocabulary while still preserving the authenticity of our culture. Bombazo has had the distinction to perform at Lincoln Center, Summer Stage, City Center, BAAD, Hostos Performing Arts Center, Pregones Theater, among many other venues, and internationally in Santiago De Cuba, and Mexico. Bombazo has been featured in the spanish network Univison comercial: “Herencia Puertorriquena” and in Lin Manuel Miranda’s “In The Heights” The movie released Summer 2020.

Mission

Bombazo is a 501(c)- 3 non-profit drum and dance company, whose mission is to preserve, educate and showcase traditional Afro Puerto Rican Bomba and Afro Caribbean and traditional folkloric elements. We further combine those main ingredients and fusing them with classical, contemporary and social styles of dance. Thus, creating a new movement vocabulary while still preserving the authenticity of our culture.

The word "Bombazo" signifies a Bomba jam. It is where the community gathers to celebrate life through its rhythms, song and dance. Our company members are professionals in their field. They hail from different countries, such as Asian, European, Central & South America, from the Caribbean and African Diaspora. All are strong technical dancers, learning , sharing and performing Bomba.

As choreographer and artistic director, our audiences experience how a simple element can be taken to new heights and beyond. Therefore, our mission is to further enrich the knowledge of all who come and support our dance concerts within the universal language of dance and dance education.

Milteri Tucker, Director

Born and raised in Puerto Rico. Ms. Tucker holds degrees in Dance, Biology and Chemistry, a master in Dance Education from New York University-NYU. Is the founder and artistic director of BOMBAZO Dance Co. Ms Tucker has apprenticed and performed with Bomba elders and distinguished Bomba families in Puerto Rico from San Juan, Santurce, Loiza, Catano, Ponce, Mayaguez, Arroyo. As an educator and Master Bomba dancer, she lectures in dance departments on Bomba dance technique, figure and timing across the United States and internationally. Milteri has worked for distinguished dance companies and choreographers from Puerto Rico, the Caribbean and United States. She has performed and showcased her work at City Center, Alvin Ailey, Hostos Main Stage, BAAD, Pregones Theater, Thalia Spanish Theater, Castillo Theater, El Museo del Barrio, Julia de Burgos Cultural Center, Lehman Center for the Performing Arts, PRTT and STEPS.

Theater Credits include:The Perils Of Chencha" written and directed by Anita Velez Mitchell, YES I YES, written by Acclaimed Spanish writer Yolanda Garcia Serrano directed by Noelle Mauri, Amor Latino written and directed by Angel Gil Orrios, La Negra Mas Bella", "Llamada/ Rally Cry" both written and directed by Nancy Nevarez, Lulu en la Habana written by Ntozake Shange and directed by Carla Pinza. She portrayed Josephine Baker for Macy's Herald Squares tribute to the "First Diva: Josephine Baker" in 2007, performed for Broadway's Easter Bonnet at the Minskoff Theater in 2011 and highlighted dancer at the Latin Billboards for Puerto Rican urban artist, Don Omar. Milteri is a cast dance member in Lin Manuel Miranda's "In the Heights The Movie" set to release in 2020.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0GizeGdaWY

Follow Us on Social Media

Website: https://www.bombazodanceco.com/

26th Annual National Cuatro Festival

 

 

Saturday, November 2, 2024 @ 7pm
Harris Theater at Millennium Park

205 East Randolph Street, Chicago, IL

 

Welcome to the 26th Annual National Cuatro Festival!

This year, the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance is thrilled to present "La Magia del Cuatro y Güiro" (The Magic of the Cuatro and Güiro) for its 26th Annual National Cuatro Festival. This unique concert will highlight the enchanting sounds of Puerto Rico’s cuatro music while also showcasing the güiro, a traditional percussion instrument integral to various Latin American music styles, particularly Puerto Rican folk genres like plena and salsa.

The National Cuatro Festival will feature a captivating blend of the cuatro (by Puerto Rico's legendary Modesto Nieves) and the güiro, celebrating the artistry of renowned güireros such as Neftali Ortiz, Rosaura Batista, and Monica Nieves. These musicians have mastered the güiro and captured the imagination of audiences in Puerto Rico and beyond.

Additionally, the festival will include a spectacular performance by Luis Sanz, one of Puerto Rico’s esteemed cuatristas. Accompanied by his 10-piece ensemble, which includes the return of guitarist and vocalist Lisvette Sanz, Luis Sanz will deliver a dynamic fusion of contemporary and traditional cuatro music. Their performance promises to resonate with a new generation while honoring the rich heritage of Puerto Rico’s musical roots.

el Convento Hotel Old San Juan

  

A Charming Stay in San Juan Puerto Rico

Imagine a destination as grand and storied as the "Isle of Enchantment" itself, nestled just steps away from historic landmarks and nightlife in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Old world charm and elegance meet contemporary comfort and luxury at Hotel El Convento. Built in 1646, it was the first Small Luxury Hotel of the World member in Puerto Rico and is the oldest member of the Historic Hotels of America.

Within the walls of a 350-year-old former Carmelite convent, an air of refined sophistication merges harmoniously with genuine warmth and hospitality. Immerse yourself in classic elegance, as high ceilings, exquisite mahogany beams, handcrafted tiles, antique chests, and wrought ironwork all bear witness to the authentic charm of the Conquistador Age. Every guest room captures captivating vistas of Old San Juan and the mesmerizing bay beyond.

Make the Best of Your Stay in San Juan

No matter what your reason for escaping to beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico, Hotel El Convento offers guests a distinct island experience that you won't find anywhere else. Our hotel packages make it even easier for you to escape to a relaxing realm of indulgent services, award-winning cuisine and warm tropical breezes.

Old San Juan Hotel Rooms

Step into a world of unparalleled history and luxury at Hotel El Convento, where we merge modern comfort and luxury with the timeless charm of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. Indulge in the epitome of relaxation in our timeless 81 hotel rooms, each adorned with ornate handcrafted furniture, marble bathrooms, and exquisite tile floors. Bask in the beauty of a magnificent bay vistas. Every detail of our Spanish Colonial hotel has been thoughtfully restored with love and dedication, preserving the essence of the past while embracing modern comforts. Rich mahogany beams stand exposed, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that adorns this architectural gem in the heart of Old San Juan.

Bed and Breakfast

Begin your days of exploring Old San Juan with a delightful start at El Convento! Our Bed and Breakfast package offers the perfect way to welcome each new day.

Package Includes:

• Accommodations and daily Continental Breakfast for two (2) adults at Patio del Níspero Restaurant.
• Upgrade to Full American breakfast for an additional $15 per night

Alegría Patio Bar

Unwind and experience ultimate relaxation at Alegría Patio Bar, surrounded by a serene ambiance while savoring handcrafted afternoon cocktails.

100 Calle del Cristo 00901 San Juan Puerto Rico 

Hotel El Convento

100 Calle del Cristo, San Juan P.R. 00901
Phone: +787-723-9020  |  Email: info@elconvento.com