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Raul Colon - photographer, digital marketer & writer living on the beach in Puerto Rico.

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To the Veterans

November 11, 2013 by Raul Colon

robert-alex-afghanistan To the Veterans
SFC Alex Burgos and SFC Robert Delirah in Afghanistan 2013

When I was 17 I made the decision to join the military and to this day I clearly did not understand very well what I was getting into. There where a few things that motivated my enlistment and one of them was following in the steps of my Uncle Rey and both my Grandfathers who served in the military.

Following in My Uncle Rey’s and Grandfathers’ Footsteps

As a kid I use to dream of becoming a soldier especially since my uncle Rey had served in the military for a few decades. When he finally went to combat he was a Lt. Colónel and was the highest ranking Puerto Rico National Guard officer inside the combat theatre.

My uncle left shortly after his tour in Iraq where I guess he served around 34+ years in the National Guard. Once I saw he left it also kept me away from re-enlisting.\

Both my grandfathers also served in the military. My grandfather on my Dad’s side was thrown out of the military because he stood up the racism and unjust treatment Puerto Rican Soldiers received. To this day I admire the stance that my Grandfather Ignacio took. He was so hurt by the situation even when it was decided that he was entitled to veterans benefits given they had enough evidence to prove that how he was treated was unfair, it is my understanding he turned them away.  I have tried to ask him about his service and it is a subject he steers clear from.

My Closest Friend and Brother in a Combat Zone Again

For the past 10 months I have tried to steer clear from getting any news on Afghanistan. My best friend and brother of another mother Alex Burgos was serving in a combat zone in Afghanistan (his second tour in Afghanistan). For me no news is good news, and I also was confident in Alex’s training as a soldier but more importantly an awesome leader and commitment for his team.

One thing I learned from Alex on this deployment was that he was in combat for the third time primarily to make sure his team and brothers in arms would come back safely. I congratulate Alex for doing an awesome job. But I would be lying if say I was not worried during the 9 months since I was on the list to be notified if anything happened to him.

The Combat Risks

We all step outside our doors and don’t know how much time we have on this earth. A soldier steps into the battlefield and knows there is a higher probability for them to get hurt or injured. I have soldiers who I served with who were injured in combat like Jose Rodriguez Soba who was injured in Combat, received the purple heart and I communicate with still on facebook. He is truly an example to follow such a positive attitude towards even after the struggles him and his family have gone through.

I’m glad all my friends that were recently in combat zones returned safely to their families especially Carlos Gonzalez (my buddy while in the military), Deb Hancock (was my Military Instructor now a good friend),  Luis Diou (Long time Friend) and Luis Javier Ramos (our neighbor for the four years we lived in Coamo).  I am sending positive vibes to my buddy Robert Delirah who is currently in Afghanistan and I am anxiously waiting for his safe return.

A Lesson from Veterans

During my time in the military I met veterans not only from the U.S. Army but from the many other countries we had an opportunity to train with.

One thing I learned from all of them was how War was cold and ugly. Combat veterans usually have  scars that are not seeing and easily forgotten by those who don’t dig deep enough to understand them.

Let’s Do something for the Veteran’s

Today I see how there is a veteran’s day sale and how people commemorate them. But then all I have to do is quickly browse over to Mark Hovarth’s website and see that so many veterans are not only misunderstood but they are forgotten on the streets to fend off on their own.

You would have thought that in 2013 especially when the U.S. has been at war for over a decade veterans would be taken care off a bit better. But the reality is that there is still much to do.

Instead of complaining about what is still to be done I rather have you help me in donating even $5 to someone who helps veterans every day.

Stop by Invisiblepeople.tv and help my buddy Mark Hovarth to get those veterans who are still on the streets a roof over their head.

It’s great that you posted a picture, wrote a message, and congratulated our veterans but a small sacrifice for some of us can mean a whole deal to a veterans sleeping in the streets.

To my veteran friends and family Thank you for your service.

Now skip a Latte or two and donate in the name of veterans.

May all those Serving Return Back Safely.

May those that return get the support they need for the sacrifice they made.

Alex-return-home To the Veterans
Welcome Back Alex!

Filed Under: Featured, Holidays Tagged With: Army, Veterans

Piloto 151 San Juan’s First Co-Working Space

October 31, 2013 by Raul Colon

IMG_9036-1024x768 Piloto 151 San Juan's First Co-Working Space

Working at home has its benefits and yes it is convenient to wake up in the morning, roll out my bed, and walk towards my office which is in the room next to ours. But there are a few limitations when it comes to growing a business or starting one, which is the case with Limonade at the moment.

Seeking Less Interruptions

On some occasions,  I want to have a space where I can go jot down ideas, research them, ask someone else’s opinion, and have less interruptions.

I love Being Near My Daughter

I love the fact that I get to work close to my daughter who will be turning three. I also don’t have the heart to say, “no” to her when it comes to her requests. A way I can get through work by distancing myself from these small distractions is working outside the house when given the chance in the form of co-working spaces.

First Co-Working Space in San Juan

Yesterday I was able to stop by Piloto 151, for a free co-working day and Sofia, one of the founders, was nice enough to extend a complimentary day pass at the Piloto 151 co-working space. (I went a day ahead.)

The place is pretty awesome and I like the fact that it has many open spaces. Having other people working around you that are talented, motivates me to continue putting my head down and completing important tasks.

Today they have a free co-working space so if you are in the San Juan Area and want to meet some pretty cool people, stop by and say hi.

Networking and Professional Development Opportunities

They are also running a series of business sessions where they are offering the surrounding community informational resources and speakers at little to no cost.

Moving forward, if everything continues to progress with Limonade as it has been moving in the first months of operations, I might have to look for a space like Piloto 151 to get some of my best and important work done with less interruptions.

Making it Easier to Set up a Business Locally

During my conversation with Sofia, she informed me of the ways they are helping out new business owners and those that want to do business on the island (something that is very well needed.)

If you want to learn more about Piloto 151, stop by their website and get in touch with them.

Event on Friday

Understanding the Future of IT: Ride the Wave to Grow Your Business

When?

Fri, November 1, 2013 5:00pm – 7:30pm

Where?

Piloto 151, Calle San Francisco 151 (al lado de la alcadía en la Plaza de Armas) map

What is the event about?

What we’re calling “Big Data” today is getting even bigger, at a faster pace than we ever anticipated. In this session, Martina will discuss some emerging trends in IT and potential models for future analytics systems, technologies and infrastructure that are seeking to address these trends.

We’ll also have an interactive session to discuss how you can ride the wave of these emerging trends to grow your business as Big Data becomes truly big and truly fast. Martina Trucco is responsible for research strategy and portfolio management at HP Labs, HP’s global corporate research lab.

Filed Under: Events, Featured Tagged With: Puerto Rico, San Juan, Working from Home

A Memorable Experience – Misfit Conference Fargo

July 17, 2013 by Raul Colon

misfit-fargo-small-600px A Memorable Experience - Misfit Conference Fargo

As I headed to Fargo, North Dakota to attend the first Misfit Conference created by my friends AJ Leon and Melissa Leon I was anxious to set my feet on the ground after the rocky plane ride I had just experienced. Perhaps that was going to be an indication of how the conference was going to differentiate itself from ones I had attended previously.

The next few days were going to create a memorable experience that would push me to continue my path to where I want to go next. Like I read the posts of other attendees, the  Misfit Conference was an introduction to many new friends and a better understanding of previous people I had met in my past experiences.

A Memorable Flight

On my flight from Chicago to Fargo, I experienced the scariest flight ever. For approximately 2 hours the turbulence on the plane was horrible. That has happened only a few times in my 33 years on this earth.  The only thing I could think about was being on the ground. On my way to the hotel, I was with the flight crew and over hearing how complicated it was to get through the many storms and finally land in Fargo. I felt less of a coward when I understood snippets of their conversation of how bad it was in the air and was very grateful to be headed to my hotel room after a long day of flying from San Juan to Fargo.

Emotional RollerCoaster

It was only  the beginning of many emotional highs and lows I experienced at the Misfit Conference. The few lows where linked closely to the fact that one of my clients and friend lost her husband to criminals targeting small business owners on the Island. The speakers shared so much of themselves  that on a few occasions what they spoke about made me face the reality  that my friend is now a widow in her early thirties taking care of two kids, which triggered many emotions that where expressed in tears.

The many high’s where brought upon the great people I met and the unique interactions  I had with them.  It’s amazing to think what an awesome job Melissa and AJ did by moving such talented and kind hearted individuals into one space.

A Higher & Creative Representation of Attention to Detail

The details of the conference where planned in a healthy disorder. At times things felt spontaneous but knowing AJ, Melissa, and Jessie I know it was   planned and harmonized in a creative way. As an ex-military instructor, security consultant, and IT auditor I can tell you that I love breaking things apart and analyzing them in depth.  In the case of the Misfit Conference there where so many precisely executed and planned details it was hard to keep up.

From the art placement, to food items selected (especially the vegan ones, which I am very grateful for ),  to the comfortable antique refurbished chairs, inspiring speakers from diverse backgrounds, and the music that was played live for us by local artists made me think of a quote by one of the speakers which describes it in 5 words:

“Experiments are intentionally created imperfections”.

I was even happier when seeing that not even paper cups where used we  drank out of reusable containers and two beautiful mugs made  the trip back with me. Embracing a more minimalist me I gave the other one to my close neighbor and friend.

misfit-fargo-mugg-700px A Memorable Experience - Misfit Conference Fargo

Enchanting Imperfections

I have to confess I fell in love with the many imperfections I experienced throughout my whole experience.

I have never been to a conference or gathering where:

  • So many things surprised me
  • Made me smile and laugh
  • Made me cry
  • Made me get so deep into each element I lost track of time and the world outside that conference room.

The mix of those who visited Fargo like me to the People who live in Fargo.

  • From Greg Tehven who gave us a bit of his soul on stage and later on I was able to see how much of a leader he is in his community and how much he is loved.
  • Nichole Rae who gifted us with some cool typography, art, and prints that we all left with to a cool message on my Misfit Moleskin.
  • To the voice of Randi Olsen who on our last night we listened too while we got ready to say our good-bye.
  • The lens of Jesse Hoorelbeke who captured many moments to help us as reminders of the great experience as a photographer.

misfit-fargo-randy-700px A Memorable Experience - Misfit Conference Fargo

Overall Fargo will be a unique adventure I will always cherish.

PS: My next post I will share how my experienced helped me clear my head on to my next ventures and my new company which I am currently building with the help of my core team. If you want to receive my next blog posts in your inbox feel free to subscribe to my newsletter.

misfit-fargo-band-700px A Memorable Experience - Misfit Conference Fargo

Special thanks to AJ LEON, Melissa, Cheeze, Mirko and Genevieve who created such a unique experience for all of us.

Video Recap of the Misfit Conference by AJ Leon

Misfit Con Fargo 2013 from Misfit, Inc. on Vimeo.

More Pictures

8971371381_ecfe9f320e_z A Memorable Experience - Misfit Conference Fargo

Filed Under: Events, Featured Tagged With: AJ Leon, Misfits

Keeps Your Hands Free during SXSW

February 28, 2013 by Raul Colon

feeding-pigeons-runnur-raul-daniela-1024x768 Keeps Your Hands Free during SXSW

Yes it’s that time of the year again and I am getting ready to make my third pilgrimage to Austin along with many geeks, bloggers,  developers, and people interested in learning more about digital.

Last year I created a few posts and a guide on making your SXSW experience an easier one.  I do this more as an exercise to prepare myself; I advise that when it comes to SXSW Interactive, especially if it is your first one, most of the planning goes out the door once the conference starts.

Last year while walking the SXSW trade show floor, I found a booth that had a neat mini-backpack called a Runnur.

Andrew Hamra, CEO of the company, gave us all a quick explanation of the functionality of the Runnur. Andrew also did a great job on focusing on how it would benefit me by observing that my pockets where full of things I needed to keep in hand.

Being a fan of bags, I thought that the Runnur offered me a unique way of carrying my gadgets and gear with accessibility.

Don’t Leave Home Without It

A year later, if anyone has seen me in public, they have probably seen me with my Runnur. As the old American Express slogan use to say  “Don’t Leave home without it”. I probably don’t ever leave home without my Runnur.

Walking the Dog on the Beach

When I walk the dog on the beach, I carry extra treats and even hang my sandals from the carabineer.

Visiting the Gym

I carry my headphones, my water bottle, and even hang my towel from it while having everything on hand.

Fun Walks with my Daughter

When we are out with our daughter, it keeps my cell phone handy, along with charger, and water bottle. I even made a small first aid kit with some necessities that every dad with a toddler might need.

Back to SXSW or any other Big Conference

RIMG0175-1024x768 Keeps Your Hands Free during SXSW
SXSWi 2012 with Rock Star C.C. Chapman wearing my Runnur

Once I arrive at SXSW my Runnur will have:

  • License – Very useful when I am trying to get into venues with an age limit and they might think I am under 21.
  • Bus Pass or Shuttle wristband– The previous two years I used the RR Shuttle, which made you carry a wristband that had a cost of approximately $60-$70 dollars. If you lost it, you would have to buy a new one. Keeping it in a safe place like your Runnur will save you money and a headache when every bus driver asks for the wristband.
  • Sunglasses – I normally don’t buy expensive sunglasses because their life span in my hands tends to be short. Last year I had some sunglasses I accidentally dropped and broke. Since then, I use the compartment made for sunglasses.
  • Extra Battery Pack – At SXSWi you need to ABC or Always be Charging. For that reason I will be carrying my Extra-Battery pack with me so my cell phone does not run out of battery.
  • Phone Charger Cable – I will have the cable to my iPad 2 and iPhone 5 handy.
  • Instead of my wallet I will be using my Runnur. I will have my credit cards, debit cards, and cash. A lot easier to lose your wallet than to lose your Runnur.
  • My iPhone5 will also act as a Wi-Fi hotspot when the SXSW networks gets slow and I need to do something online.
  • My Point and shoot camera, a Ricoh CX2, with an extra battery.
  • Since going to SXSW is a business expense, I can store my receipts and scan them later.
  • If you’re staying at a hotel the key can also be placed in the Runnur.
  • I will be using the carabineer to carry my swag bag.

I am sure I will find other ways to make use of my Runnur.

One thing is certain, if you see me at SXSW you will see me wearing one.

Buy a Runnur (now called the iBand Adjustable Sling) from me here.

Filed Under: Featured, SXSWi Tagged With: Runnur, SXSW

Meeting Kevin Mitnick Thanks to ISSA PR

February 4, 2013 by Raul Colon

IMG_0002-1024x682 Meeting Kevin Mitnick Thanks to ISSA PR

In my previous life as an IT Security and Governance professional, I use to earn most of my income helping companies safeguard their overall assets by identifying Threats, Vulnerabilities, and the risk each IT process could create.

I fast forward to now and I am more in the state of looking into business processes to help businesses of all sizes use new technology in order to help their ideas, concepts, and/or businesses grow.

This past November I had the opportunity to collaborate with a few colleagues who were working on the Fifth Annual ISSA Puerto Rico conference.

Since the ISSA Puerto Rico Chapter was founded, I have not missed any symposiums and I was not going to miss this one. The ISSA board brought me in to help them with their online communications and as a volunteer to share the event with our communities.

The day of the symposium started with a welcome by the Board’s president Elimael Aviles and a quick overview by Bruno Haring on how he founded the chapter 5 years ago.

Don’t Become an Easy Target – Q1 Labs

One of the speakers that quickly caught my attention was Peter Allor an ex-Special Forces officer turned IBM security consultant for Q1 Labs ( an IBM Company). He spoke about Cyber Security Threat Landscape. Peter moved around the public and explained why he was not at the podium. He said it felt similar to being a static object in combat hence becoming an easier target to hit. That comment reminded me of two things:

  1. Last march when internet pioneer Jeff Pulver visited Puerto Rico for a meet up, he made me think a bit more about how a speaker projects himself by taking the stage or staying at the same level of the audience.
  2. The many sharp officers I met during my military career which would get the troops pumped up and inspiring them by standing in front and showing they cared.

Later I had the opportunity to chat with Peter Allor about his experience as a Special Forces officer and how that has helped him greatly in many aspects of life especially when dealing with people.

Peter was nice enough to create this quick spontaneous video explaining what Q1 Labs does and as an ISSA Sponsor. If you want to learn more about security go to IBM.com/Security 

Mobile Application Case Study

One of the reasons I never miss the ISSA Conference is the diversity in topics that fit in one way or the other the overall IT Security ecosystems.

The mobile banking experience by @molinary #issa #puertorico @popular

A post shared by Raúl Colón (@raulcolon) on Nov 16, 2012 at 6:43am PST

Last march at SXSWi I met Rachid Molinary while walking on Austin’s 6th street and weeks later I became a fan of the pictures he shares online. Rachid works for Banco Popular and was one of the people in charge of creating their mobile platforms including the iPhone application.

Rachid spoke about how Banco Popular uses innovation to improve overall customer experience. One of my main concerns with my current bank is how they are so behind in tools to help me manage my accounts that after hearing Rachid talk about Banco Popular’s innovation, I might change my feelings towards the bank and open a business account with them.

Kevin Mitnick 

As I shared in this blog previously , I have been a fan of Kevin Mitnick. I had the opportunity to talk with him for a few minutes before he spoke to the audience. I had seen Kevin on TV and in a very funny interview with Stephen Colbert but I was not expecting him to get on stage and be such an awesome storyteller.

The Colbert Report
Get More: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

Kevin took us back to his childhood years and how he started hacking processes to his benefit; from getting free rides on the LA transport system to changing the phone infrastructure to play some well-structured pranks on others.

Kevin Mitnick #keynote @kevinmitnick #infosec #puertorico #issa

A post shared by Raúl Colón (@raulcolon) on Nov 16, 2012 at 10:54am PST

During his talk I began to really understand why he was able to create so much commotion by being one of the most well known hackers in history.

When Kevin spoke it felt like he was sitting in a living room somewhere sharing his stories with people that where in his inner circle. Trying to create this ambience in an audience of 200+ people is no easy task but Kevin was able to accomplish it.

Meeting @kevinmitnick after his keynote! Extraordinary hacker even greater story teller!

A post shared by Raúl Colón (@raulcolon) on Nov 17, 2012 at 6:47am PST

After Kevin ended his talk he stayed for multiple pictures with those who approached him. I was able to get a picture with him and also have him record some safety tips for parents who have their kids using the computer for our other blog Papaheroes.com.

Overall, I was very impressed with how the ISSA Puerto Rico Board did such a great job organizing the event.

I am very grateful that Vincent De Hoyos and Ricardo Acosta invited me to collaborate with them to make such an awesome event happen.

Special Thanks to these two sponsors

Ricoh – To Ricoh for sponsoring the previous year and raffling a camera that I won. Some of the images shared where taken with a Ricoh CX2.

Q1 Labs – To Peter Allor and Catherine Meehan for the neat swag they gave me and other participants but most importantly for the time they took in explaining their products so I could get a better understanding of them.

Other Sponsors

  • Ernst and Young
  • Absolute Software
  • BDO
  • EDP
  • SIDIF
  • Microsoft 

Filed Under: Events Tagged With: ISSA

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