2025 Ford Explorer Review

 The 2025 Ford Explorer delivers a much-needed refresh to this family-favorite SUV. It upgrades both its exterior and interior aesthetics, adds robust tech, and sharpens its driving experience—bringing it closer to current segment leaders.

Design & Trims

Visually, the refreshed Explorer looks wider and more confident thanks to a modern grille, squared-off LED headlights, and sculpted contouring that updates the profile without a full redesign. Available black-painted roof options add a dash of style to the ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims.

Ford has simplified the trim lineup to four: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum—streamlining choice while offering distinct styling and feature tiers.

Performance & Capability

Under the hood, the Explorer retains familiar yet potent powertrains: a standard 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 300 hp, and an optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6 with 400 hp—standard on the ST and available on the Platinum.

Fuel economy is competitive: rear-wheel drive yields an estimated 20/29 mpg (city/highway) with the four-cylinder, dropping to 18/25 mpg for the V6. Performance is strong—0–60 mph in around 6.8 seconds for the base engine and as quick as 5.2 seconds in the ST model.

Towing is practical, too, with a 5,000-pound capacity standard across trims thanks to a Class III hitch.

Cabin, Comfort & Tech

The headline of the 2025 update is inside: a completely revamped interior with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, anchored by the new Ford Digital Experience system, based on Android Automotive.

This system introduces Google Maps, Google Assistant, the Google Play Store, and apps such as YouTube or Zoom for use when parked. Plus, Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

The cabin materials have also taken a step up: soft-touch surfaces, contrast stitching, and a clever “drop zone” tray with wireless charging lend a refined feel across all trims—especially noteworthy in Platinum, which shows off quilted leather with piping.

Space-wise, the Explorer offers generous legroom in the first two rows; the third row remains tight, better suited for kids, a common trait in this class. Cargo capacity is solid, with 16.3 cu-ft behind the third row, growing to 46 cu-ft behind row two and topping out around 85–88 cu-ft with rear seats folded down.

Technology & Safety

Along with infotainment, Ford packs in advanced safety and driver-assist features. The standard Co-Pilot360 Assist+ includes emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping tech, and more.

Higher trims—ST-Line, ST, and Platinum—offer the hands-free BlueCruise 1.2 system, complete with a 90-day trial. Subscription rates hover around $700/year or $75/month. Safety also scores highly, with a five-star overall NHTSA rating.

Real-World Impressions

In a head-to-head comparison with the Honda Pilot, Edmunds gave the Explorer the edge for its sharper performance and tech-rich interior, though the Pilot offered a smoother ride, more cargo storage, and better rear comfort.

What’s Not Perfect?

Despite big strides, not everything hits the mark:

• The third row remains cramped and less comfortable for adults.
• Cabin quality, while improved, still trails behind more upscale competitors.
• Ride can feel firmer than rivals, especially on bumpy roads.
• Cargo space, while adequate, doesn’t match the very best in class.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Ford Explorer marks a meaningful reset for a long-standing icon. It blends bold styling, powerful engines, trailer-ready capability, and a tech-forward cabin that finally rivals the competition. With its more refined interior, futuristic infotainment, and available hands-free driving, it’s a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment.

That said, if maximum cargo volume or third-row comfort are your top priorities, or if you crave a luxury-level cabin, you may still find better fits elsewhere. But for families and tech lovers craving sportier driving dynamics and modern flair, the new Explorer is undeniably a step up—and a stylish, connected choice for today’s SUV buyers.

Hon. Thomas Rivera Schatz Presidente del Senado de Puerto Rico

 

El actual Presidente del Senado de Puerto Rico se encuentra en su tercer término como líder del Alto Cuerpo. Con una larga trayectoria de servicio público, el licenciado Rivera Schatz ha demostrado su liderazgo, consolidando su influencia política y su rol clave en la creación y aprobación de legislación fundamental para el desarrollo económico, social y político de Puerto Rico.

Heredó de sus padres su vocación por el servicio público, además de su integridad y compromiso, principios morales que son la base de sus ejecutorias. Su formación académica incluye un Bachillerato en Ciencias Políticas Magna Cum Laude de la Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico y un grado de Juris Doctor, con honores, de la Facultad de Derecho de la misma Universidad.

Inicia su carrera profesional como servidor público en 1993, como asesor en el Senado y en la Cámara de Representantes de Puerto Rico. En 1996 fue designado Fiscal del Departamento de
Justicia. En el año 2000 es nombrado Comisionado Electoral del Partido Nuevo Progresista (PNP) y en el 2004 es nombrado Secretario General del PNP, cargos que desempeñó simultáneamente hasta el 11 de agosto de 2007, cuando radica su candidatura al Senado de Puerto Rico por Acumulación.

Fue electo Senador por Acumulación en el 2008, cuando sus pares lo escogen como el decimocuarto Presidente del Senado de Puerto Rico, cargo que ocupó hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2012. En el 2013 es reelecto como Senador por Acumulación. Ese mismo año, es electo como Primer Vicepresidente del PNP.

En 2016, se postula al Senado por Acumulación y es reelecto. Nuevamente sus compañeros Senadores lo eligen como Presidente del Senado. Obteniendo de nuevo un amplio respaldo del electorado, el 5 de noviembre de 2024 revalida como Senador por Acumulación y la Delegación de Mayoría lo escoge como Presidente del Senado de Puerto Rico. Es el primer Senador en la historia de Puerto Rico en presidir el Senado en tres ocasiones, a lo largo de diferentes cuatrienios.

Durante su carrera legislativa ha presentado Proyectos de Ley fundamentales para el desarrollo socioeconómico de Puerto Rico y el bienestar del pueblo puertorriqueño, abarcando temas como: mejorar la educación pública, reformar el sistema de salud, optimizar la infraestructura energética, promover la creación de empleos, fortalecer el sistema judicial, promover la transparencia gubernamental, ampliar la seguridad pública, la modernización de la Ley Electoral, mejorar los beneficios para la clase obrera; así como la implementación de políticas fiscales y económicas, en beneficio del pueblo, todo ello a través de reformas que promueven el bienestar y la equidad social.

Moca Puerto Rico: A Tapestry of History and Charm

 

History and Vibrant Culture

In the northwestern region of Puerto Rico, the town of Moca stands as a testament to the island's rich history and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the "Capital del Mundillo" (Capital of Mundillo Lace), Moca offers a captivating blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and artistic heritage.

Moca was officially founded on June 22, 1772, though its origins can be traced back to earlier settlements. The formal establishment of the municipality was largely attributed to Don Manuel de Acevedo y Polanco, a prominent figure who played a crucial role in organizing the local community and petitioning for official recognition from the Spanish Crown. The name "Moca" is believed to derive from the Moca tree (*Andira inermis*), a common species in the region, signifying the close relationship between the town and its natural surroundings.

In its early days, Moca's economy was primarily agrarian, with coffee, tobacco, and sugarcane being the main crops cultivated. The fertile lands and favorable climate contributed to the town's gradual growth and prosperity. Like many municipalities in Puerto Rico, Moca witnessed the ebb and flow of Spanish colonial rule and the subsequent transition to American sovereignty. These historical periods have left their mark on the town's architecture, traditions, and cultural identity.

Official Colors and Identity

The official colors of Moca are green and gold (or yellow). Green symbolizes the lush vegetation and agricultural heritage of the region, while gold represents the town's historical and cultural richness. These colors are proudly displayed in the municipal flag and are often incorporated into local events and celebrations, serving as visual emblems of Moca's identity.

Moca boasts several sites of interest that attract both locals and visitors. One of the most prominent landmarks is the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate, the town's main Catholic church. This beautiful church, with its distinctive architecture, serves as a focal point for religious and community life. The devotion to Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate (Our Lady of Montserrat) is deeply ingrained in Moca's cultural fabric, with annual festivities held in her honor, showcasing the town's religious fervor and traditions.

Another significant attraction is the Casa Alcaldía (City Hall), an impressive structure that reflects the town's historical and administrative importance. The central plaza, often bustling with activity, provides a gathering space for residents and hosts various cultural events and festivities throughout the year.

For those interested in the town's artistic heritage, a visit to local artisan workshops, particularly those specializing in mundillo lace, is a must. This intricate and delicate form of lacemaking has been a cherished tradition in Moca for generations, with skilled artisans creating exquisite pieces that are highly valued both locally and internationally. The dedication and artistry involved in mundillo lace have earned Moca its title as the "Capital del Mundillo."

Moca's Natural Beauty

Beyond its historical and cultural landmarks, Moca is also surrounded by natural beauty. The region's rolling hills and green landscapes offer opportunities for exploration and appreciation of Puerto Rico's diverse environment. While not directly on the coast, Moca provides a tranquil inland experience within relatively easy reach of the island's beaches and other natural attractions.

Moca, Puerto Rico, is a town that beautifully intertwines its rich history with a vibrant present. From its founding by Don Manuel de Acevedo y Polanco in 1772 to its enduring tradition of mundillo lace, Moca offers a unique glimpse into Puerto Rican heritage. With its welcoming community, significant landmarks like the Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate, and the symbolic green and gold colors representing its identity, Moca remains a charming and historically significant gem in the heart of Puerto Rico.

Pepe Ríos y Orquesta La Mancha

 

Intro

Grupo musical de salsa puertorriqueño con más 30 años de experiencia en la música, desde el 2012 conocidos como Pepe Ríos y Orquesta La Mancha. Compositores de todos sus éxitos con más de 7 discografías en toda su trayectoria.

Quienes Somos

​Grupo musical de salsa puertorriqueño con más 30 años de experiencia en la música, desde el 2012 conocidos como Pepe Ríos y Orquesta La Mancha. Compositores de todos sus éxitos con más de 7 discografías en toda su trayectoria.

En tarima nos circunscribimos a interpretar las composiciones nuestras. Nuestro repertorio musical es variado, e incluye: salsa, bolero, merengue, plena, aguinaldos y seises, etc. Nos caracterizamos por nuestro sentido de responsabilidad, puntualidad y vestimenta apropiada al evento.

Pepe Ríos

Trayectoria Musical

El Sr. José "Pepe" Ríos Santos, con nombre artístico: "Pepe Ríos"; es un compositor, cantante, trovador y músico de percusión menor. Se adentra en la música a su edad juvenil como intérprete de música típica, y de ahí a la música tropical: boleros, guarachas, valses etc.

​Luego incursiona en el género de la Salsa, en la década de los altos 60, a interpretarla, y como músico de percusión menor. Ya para los años 80, tenía su propio conjunto criollo, con amistades del barrio.

Luego funda el "Conjunto 100 x 35", para ser más formal el trabajo, y obtener presentaciones en tarima. Ya ahí, interpretaba sus propias canciones con una que otra de otros compositores. En los años del 94 al 99, estuvo con el Conjunto Jataca, del Sr. Efraín Rivera, en calidad de trovador y compositor. Vuelve y retoma su Conjunto 100 X 35, hasta noviembre de 2011.

Para el 12 de febrero de 2012, funda la Orquesta La Mancha, con la intención de entrar también al género de la Salsa, pero como compositor y cantante.​ Siempre tuvo la intención de llegar al público con temáticas sociales, culturales, principalmente al público adulto, y con una lírica de respeto hacia la mujer, en esencia.

Contrataciones

PR-618 KM 7.8
Corozal, PR 00783

prorquestalamancha@gmail.com
Tel: (787) 433-9876

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEsxz-3pw2o

 

Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon Governor of Puerto Rico

 

Jenniffer González-Colón was elected Governor on November 5, 2024.  Prior to this election González-Colón served as Puerto Rico’s sole Representative to the U.S. Congress, known as Resident Commissioner, and was the first woman to hold the office. A lifelong Republican advocate for Puerto Rico statehood, González-Colón began her political journey in a special election in 2002, becoming the youngest member ever elected to the Puerto Rico House of Representatives. She quickly ascended through the ranks, serving as Speaker of the House for four years and later as Minority Leader for an additional four years.

Her priorities as Puerto Rico’s voice in Congress included spearheading the economic recovery of the Island, securing equal treatment for Puerto Rico’s 3.2 million American citizens in federal laws, regulations, services, and funding, and ensuring that Congress responds decisively to the overwhelming mandate of Puerto Rico’s voters for admission as the 51st state of the Union as reflected by clear majorities through locally-held plebiscites in 2012, 2017, 2020, and 2024.

Puerto Rico suffered its worst natural disaster in 90 years after hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated the Island in 2017. González-Colón’s efforts to keep Puerto Rico’s recovery at the forefront of Congress’ attention, organizing visits of members of Congress and administration officials, building bipartisan alliances, have resulted in over $117 billion in appropriations after the disaster, as well as legislation allowing infrastructure to be rebuilt to improved standards, full federal share in funding for rebuilding, and an extension in the emergency agencies’ mandates. Her contributions have been acknowledged through various honors, including being named one of the 100 most influential Republican women by NewsMax and consistently ranking among the top 20 in the Bipartisan Index rankings compiled by the Lugar Center and Georgetown University.

A product of the Puerto Rico public schools, holder of a Juris Doctor and Master of Laws degree (LL.M.), González-Colón served as Chair of the Puerto Rico Republican Party from 2015 to 2021, and First Vice Chair of the local pro-statehood party, Partido Nuevo Progresista.

Waterbury Puerto Rican Parade and Festival

 

FESTIVAL INFORMATION
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Downtown Waterbury
1:30 pm - 7:30 pm!

​Since its inception, the Greater Waterbury Puerto Rican Festival will feature some of the best local Puerto Rican talent - groups, solo artists, cultural acts - and it closes with a few well-known performers who come to the festival from Puerto Rico specifically to be part of the event. Attendees arrive early to grab the best space at the park, shop with the vendors, and get first dibs at the delicious food provided by both local restaurants and out-of-town vendors.

The Greater Waterbury Puerto Rican Day Parade & Festival Committee envisions a thriving, empowered Puerto Rican community leading in civic life, culture, and opportunity—where our people are always a priority, always included, and a permanent force for progress in the city/region.

The mission of the Greater Waterbury Puerto Rican Day Parade & Festival Committee is to celebrate, uplift, and empower the Puerto Rican community by producing an annual Puerto Rican Day Parade & Festival in perpetuity—while advancing civic engagement, cultural pride, leadership, and opportunity across Greater Waterbury.

  

El Platanal Restaurante

 

El sabor del el platanal

Casi 10 años le tomó al restaurador Rafael Hidalgo poder desarrollar el modelo empresarial de su restaurante El Platanal, que le permitiera seguir presentando los sabores y los platos emblemáticos de su proyecto culinario en otras localidades, en Puerto Rico. Primero fue en Carolina (hace 12 años), lugar donde inició su aventura empresarial, seguido de Cupey (10 años), Hato Rey (inicios de 2021), Piñones (desde de 2022) y ahora en Bayamón Rexville desde el pasado 27 de Marzo.

El Platanal de Piñones, localizado casi en la entrada del emblemático sector turístico de Loíza, es un edificio amplio, con áreas al aire libre y salón comedor muy cómodo que proyecta su concepto “un pedacito del campo en la ciudad”. Presenta el mismo ambiente cálido y con predominio de detalles en madera como en el resto de sus restaurantes hermanos, lo que afianza la marca, a lo que se une el distintivo sabor de su comida criollo-caribeña.

La pandemia de coronavirus covid-19 y la situación de escasez de empleomanía no han sido impedimento para que Hidalgo abriera su cuarto restaurante, con miras a más… Sí, según expresó Hidalgo a Gastronómico/EL VOCERO: “estoy en el proceso de concretar acuerdos de renta de lugares en otras zonas del área Metro y cercanas a ella, para establecer el quinto y hasta el sexto El Platanal. Me siento complacido con el buen trabajo que estamos haciendo y con el apoyo de nuestros fieles comensales, que es lo que me ha motivado a soñar en grande con el establecimiento de más restaurantes. También cuento con el respaldo de mi equipo de trabajo, que en su mayoría ha estado conmigo desde los inicios del restaurante hace 12 años, y abrir otros negocios me permite ofrecerles oportunidades de crecimiento dentro de la empresa”.