Yolanda Begum Visits Downtown Entertainment District

by Jim Barton on Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 1:21pm ·

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      Yolanda Begum is a survivor.  Not only has she fought and won a lengthy battle with cancer, but she has dealt skillfully and graciously with the dirty tricks of the supporters of Erin Hernandez Garcia, Ernie's daughter who is also seeking the Justice of the Peace, District 2-2 spot.  The destruction and theft of over $1000 of her campaign signs has not discouraged her.  She understands the ugly side of politics and running for office. 

     She has also endured criticism for speaking English with a Spanish accent, but the reality is that ethnic and regional bias is based on ignorance.  New Yorkers make fun of the way New Jersey residents speak.  Those from the deep south sometimes are criticized for speaking with a southern drawl.  Residents of the Rio Grande Valley have their own speech patterns, but with the distinct advantage of being bilingual, able to communicate in two languages.  That is an asset, not a liability.

     Despite the obstacles, Ms. Begum may be emerging as the frontrunner in the JP campaign despite the heavy push by the Hernandez machine.  Begum has replaced the destroyed and stolen signs and is now getting out her message through timely television spots.  Friday night Ms. Begum and a few friends took the time to visit guests at two downtown music venues.  They stopped first at the Crescent Moon for the performance of "Making Charlie", the folksy duo of Sarah Stapleton Reeves and her husband Jake and the Doc Scully Blues Band.  

     Next Begum and her group visited The Haven owned by longtime friend and fellow downtown business owner Juan Kenigstein.  Sipping ice water, Ms. Begum enjoyed the live music while chatting with some of Juan's regulars at the club.