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Thunderstorms affect local neighbourhoods

This news story talks about the recent thunderstorms in Barranquilla and how they affect the local population.

Recently, thunderstorms have turned into increasing occurrence in Barranquilla. Given the city's infrastructure, arroyos are also common, and they are dangerous. People can get dragged on by the arroyos caused by the thunderstorms, and die. Thunderstorms also cause strong winds which can affect the homes of the poor by flooding. This is important because it involves people's lives; it's not just a single occurrence with no consequences, it's a grave problem that can kill people.

Conclusion: In my opinion, Barranquilla should improve its infrastructure in order to solve these problems more easily.

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The Carnival season burst into motion today along Vía 40, where comparsas, cumbiamberas, and marching bands brought a wave of color and sound to the city’s signature parade. Spectators lined the route well before sunrise, waving flags and donning handmade masks as floats rolled by with dancers performing cumbia, mapalé, and garabato.

Local schools, neighborhood groups, and cultural foundations led the procession with meticulously crafted costumes—feathered headdresses, beadwork, and painted wooden masks that told stories of the Caribbean coast. Vendors selling water, raspao, and arepas de huevo threaded through the crowd as families cheered performers by name.

City officials reported a smooth start, aided by extra hydration points and shade tents at key intersections. First-aid teams and volunteers stood ready along the route, while performance marshals kept rhythm sections moving on time. “Carnival is where Barranquilla shows the world who we are,” said one troupe director before stepping off. “It’s joy, heritage, and community—on parade.”

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Sure! Here’s the transcription of the text in the image:

A foot race on the Barranquilla seawall last Sunday, July 6, generated significant economic benefits.

This event was one of the most attended by the city’s economy. Renowned radio stations such as Alimpica Esterio were also present, along Erith Dj Javier Echeverri. In addition to the guests, there were security measures such as ambulantes and hydration stations

At the end of this sporting event At the end of this sporting event, 20 won first place and 30 won and were in second place. The other contestants who came in third and fourth place after the awards ceremony a celebration in honor of the winners

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Barranquilla implements a contingency plan in preparation for the rainy season. The District System for Risk and Disaster Management (SIGR-D) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to protect vulnerable communities and prevent the floods that have historically affected the city. The plan includes the following key measures:

Cleaning of Streams and Drains: Authorities have intensified the removal of debris, trash, and sediment from the city's main streams (known locally as arroyos), such as La Felicidad, El Salado, and the one on Calle 21.

Constant Monitoring: Real-time monitoring systems will be installed and activated in high-risk zones to alert authorities and the public to potential rising water levels.

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Here’s a news-style article about Junior de Barranquilla in English:

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Junior de Barranquilla Secures Important Victory in the Colombian League

Barranquilla, Colombia – Junior de Barranquilla achieved an important win this weekend in the Colombian professional football league, keeping their hopes alive for a place at the top of the standings. Playing at the Estadio Metropolitano Roberto Meléndez, the “Tiburones” impressed their fans with a strong performance, defeating their rivals with both determination and skill.

The team’s attacking power was once again highlighted, with their forwards creating constant pressure and converting key opportunities. The midfield showed solid control of the game, while the defense maintained composure to secure a clean sheet.

With this result, Junior continues to climb in the league table and strengthens its position as one of the contenders for the championship. Fans in Barranquilla celebrated with passion, reaffirming the city’s love and pride for its team.

Junior will now prepare for their next match, which could be decisive in their fight for the title and a possible qualification to international tournaments.

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My Composition about a Civic Event"

Writeng composition

Yesterday there was a cívico event ay my school to celebrate the, Battle of Boyacá. Sereral activities took place, such as dances, plays, songs, parayers, ando exhibition, the event was held ay La Concepción District Educacional intitution in Barranquilla students ando teachers participated actively, and the audience enjoyed every part of the program It was impotant because It heped usted remember our history and valve the heores Who fought for our country

Reporte: Crismary Ulacio Grado 10

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Edgar Rentería Wins the Baseball Final

Introduction:
Colombian baseball player Edgar Rentería became the hero of the World Series final.

The game was played in the United States with thousands of fans cheering in the stands. Two strong teams fought for the championship. In the last inning, Rentería hit the ball that gave his team the victory. Coaches, players, and fans celebrated with flags, music, and joy. This event is important because Rentería became a sports hero and a symbol of pride for Colombia.

Edgar Rentería’s victory showed that with talent and determination, Colombians can shine on the world stage and inspire future generations.

Reporte: Juan Carlos Acosta

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Shakira’s Spectacular Concert in Barranquilla

The news is about the unforgettable concert Shakira offered in her hometown, Barranquilla, which gathered thousands of fans.

The event took place at the Metropolitan Stadium, filled with lights, exciting performances, and loud cheers from the audience. Shakira sang her greatest hits and dedicated emotional words to her city. Fans from different places came to see her, making it one of the most important musical events of the year in Barranquilla.

The concert was a night to remember, celebrating Shakira’s talent and the pride of Barranquilla. It brought joy, unity, and unforgettable memories to everyone who attended.

Reported by: Leandro Lobo 9•

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The junior vs union magdalena match is one of the most exciting football rivalries in Colombia. Both teams have a long history and passionate fans, making every game a special event.

Last Sunday junior faced union magdalena in an unforgettable match at the Metropolitano Stadium in Barranquilla. The atmosphere was electric as thousands of fans filled the stands with red and white colors. Both teams played with great intensity, showing their desire to win.

Junior managed to score two goals, while union magdalena fought hard until the end.

By: Dylan Restrepo 9°

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Junior vs. Unión Resumen completo liga betplay DIMAYOR

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SHAKIRA STATUE

the shakira statue, unveiled no december 26, 2023 at the gran malecón along the magdalena Rivera un Barranquilla Is a 6.5-mete Bronze anda

aluminio sculpture dipicting the Stinger un her icónico belly-dance.

the Shakira statue was created by artist Yino Márquez with the help of over 30 students and graduates from the District School of Arts. Sculpted in clay,

molded in silicone and fiberglass, and cast in bronze with aluminum details,

it depicts the singer in her iconic hip movement and symbolizes

Barranquilla’s connection to the river and the sea.

directed by: mariangel montes

grade 9°

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The Carnival of Barranquilla: A Festival of Heritage and Unity

The Carnival of Barranquilla is a world-famous celebration that highlights Colombia’s rich cultural traditions. Every year, it welcomes thousands of visitors who come to enjoy parades, live music, colorful costumes, and traditional dances that reflect the city’s joyful spirit.

During the Carnival, Barranquilla transforms into a lively stage filled with rhythm, color, and creativity. For four days, the streets are filled with comparsas, orchestras, and artistic performances that blend African, Indigenous, and Spanish influences into one vibrant celebration.

The Carnival of Barranquilla is more than just a party—it is a living tradition that preserves history, strengthens community bonds, and shares Colombia’s cultural identity with the world.

Directed by:

Emanuel Montaño

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She was a lawyer, defender and a great woman.

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In Memoriam: Carmen Peñas Visbal

In dedication to Carmen Visbal, who dedicated her entire life to jurnalism and motivated others to follow her passsion, who gave smiles, love, and Joy.

Colombia and her laved ones bid forewell to the important journalist and lawyer, Carmen Peñas Visbal, a warrior who fought to the bitter end against T‐cell leukemia. Not only Editor-in-Chief of 'EL HERALDO' but also a regional editor for 'EL TIEMPO' and Diario Del Caribe. With a brilliant mind and a knack for uncovering innate talents, she excelled in the judicial field and made her team a family. Full of life and ideas, she says goodbye this Agust 11th, leaving a deep void in journalism and friends, as well as the motivation and desire to achieve the great career she had as a warrior and sister fighing for our rights. Thus, leaving her beautiful smile engraved in the hearts of those who knew her and giving way to lives filled with her inspiration.

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Title:

Luis Díaz’s Wedding in Barranquilla

Introduction:

What is the news about?

The wedding of Colombian soccer star Luis Díaz took place in Barranquilla with family, friends, and fellow athletes in attendance.

Body:

Details of the event:

Luis Díaz, player for Liverpool FC and the Colombian national team, married his long-time partner, Gera Ponce, in a beautiful ceremony in Barranquilla. The celebration featured music, dancing, and traditional Colombian food. Many guests, including teammates and celebrities, attended the event, which became a joyful occasion for fans and the community.

Conclusion:

Luis Díaz’s wedding in Barranquilla was more than a private ceremony—it united family, friends, and fans, highlighted his strong ties to his hometown, and became a joyful moment for the community. It marks a new chapter for Luis Díaz and Gera Ponce while projecting a positive image of Colombian football and Barranquilla.

Reportes by: Joseph Hernández 9°

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Shakira shines again I'm Barranquilla with new sculpture

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The sculpture shows Shakira in one of her iconic dance poses, capturing her energy, talent, and connection to her hometown. The artwork not only celebrates Shakira’s international success, but also reflects the pride of Barranquilla in its local heroes.

The monument was installed in early August 2025 and quickly became a trending topic on social media. It was made by Yino Márquez, a well-known sculptor who has also created a statue of Sofía Vergara, another famous figure from Barranquilla.

This artistic work honors Shakira’s roots and promotes local tourism and culture. It also gives visibility to talented artists from the region who contribute to the city’s identity through their creations.

Report by Freddy Andrés Navarro Macías 9©

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Title:

Luis Díaz’s Wedding in Barranquilla

Introduction:

What is the news about?

The wedding of Colombian soccer star Luis Díaz took place in Barranquilla with family, friends, and fellow athletes in attendance.

Body:

Details of the event:

Luis Díaz, player for Liverpool FC and the Colombian national team, married his long-time partner, Gera Ponce, in a beautiful ceremony in Barranquilla. The celebration featured music, dancing, and traditional Colombian food. Many guests, including teammates and celebrities, attended the event, which became a joyful occasion for fans and the community.

Conclusion:

Luis Díaz’s wedding in Barranquilla was more than a private ceremony—it united family, friends, and fans, highlighted his strong ties to his hometown, and became a joyful moment for the community. It marks a new chapter for Luis Díaz and Gera Ponce while projecting a positive image of Colombian football and Barranquilla.

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Barranquilla hosts national basketball tournament

Last weekend, Barranquilla became the center of attention for basketball fans as it hosted the national basketball tournament 2025

The event took place at Elias chewing coliseum from August 2nd to 4th. Teams from across colombia participated in exciting and competitive matches. Hundreds of fans attended the games, enjoying music, food, and great plays. The final match was between Barranquilla sharks and Medellin eagles, and the sharks won 78-72

This event not only promoted sports in the city but also brought joy and unity to the local community

Reported by: Cristal Delgado Albarado 9°

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The Carnival of Barranquilla: A Celebration of Culture and Joy

The Carnival of Barranquilla is one of Colombia’s most important and colorful cultural events, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world to enjoy music, dance, costumes, and traditions.

The Carnival of Barranquilla transforms the city into a vibrant stage for four days of music, dance, color, and tradition, celebrating a unique mix of African and Spanish heritage. It takes place in Barranquilla, Colombia, and involves a wide range of participants, including local residents, tourists, folk dance groups, and cultural organizations.

This important event preserves Colombia’s cultural heritage, unites the community, boosts tourism, and fills the streets with joy and celebration

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A Great match at the Metropolitano stadium

An exciting football match took place at the Metropolitano Stadium in Barrilla.

Fans filled the stands waving flags and wearing t-shirts. Two teams played with passion, the ball moving fast on the green field. The referee, coach, and light made the event special.

It was a great sports event that brought people together.

Reported by:

Gassin Mroue 9°

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School Concert Unites Community with Talent and Joy

Over 300 attendees gathered at Centenario School’s auditorium last Friday to celebrate the Summer Concert 2025, under music teacher Rosa Andrade’s direction, performed a vibrant mix of genres to enthusiastic applause from families.

The Summer Concert 2025 at Centenario School brought together over 300 attendees and featured more than 50 student performers under the direction of music teacher Rosa Andrade.

The repertoire, ranging from classic ballads to modern rhythms and supported by choir and instrumental accompaniments, earned enthusiastic applause from families.

Reported by Oriannys Molina 😊

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school concert unites community with talent and joy

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School Concert Unites Community with Talent and Joy

Over 300 attendees gathered at Centenario School’s auditorium last Friday to celebrate the Summer Concert 2025, under music teacher Rosa Andrade’s direction, performed a vibrant mix of genres to enthusiastic applause from families.

The Summer Concert 2025 at Centenario School brought together over 300 attendees and featured more than 50 student performers under the direction of music teacher Rosa Andrade.

The repertoire, ranging from classic ballads to modern rhythms and supported by choir and instrumental accompaniments, earned enthusiastic applause from families.

Reported by Oriannys Molina ☺️

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Organizing My ideas.

title Morat's electrifying Concert Vin Barranquilla.

Introduction?

the city of Barranquilla Came alive with the morat Concert on June 28, 2025, event that brought thousands of fans together at the Romelio Martinez stadium.

Body

the atmosphere was thrilling and Vibrant, with lights and a massive The band Crowd. Played their most Popular hits, and the l was contagious, with energy People Singing and dancing all night

the band with their undeniable charisma and talent, performed a setlist that included ther biggest hits such as Besos en guerra, Como te atreves and No se va.

Victoria cury

Grado:9

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Wild silvestre Dangon AND Juancho de la Espriella

Silvestre Dangon AND Juancho de la Espriella reunirte yo hice colombia the tour that no INE can miss web Will experience a tour fully of memorias classics feeling AND pure vallenato flavor with the Sinha that defines a generación

A night fully of nostalgia emoticón and puré vallenato Will tale place un Barranquilla no September 20 when silvestre Dangon AND Juancho de la Espriella reunite at the metropolitano stadium as parte of their long awaited national tour el último baile it Will he the firts Time that the renowed dúo Performs on This emblematic stage which has generarte greal expectations among fans of the Gere

The concert Will take place on September 20 at the metropolitano stadium

José Guillermo Escorcia 9°

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Barranquilla honors Sofía Vergara with majastic statue at the malecón del río in Barranquilla.

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Sofía vergara’s statue

On July 10th, 2025, coinciding with the 53rd Birthday of Barranquilla, Born actress Sofia Vergara monumental statue in her honor was unveiled At The Gran Malecón del Río in Barranquilla.

A 7.5. Tall 5.5. Ton bronze scultupture was revealed created by máster sculptor Yino Márquez, with the presence of mayor Alejandro Char.

Yino Márquez, the same artist behind Shakira’s statue, worked with six students and graduates from the EDA at school for seven monthes.

Sofía Vergara expressed her excitement online, saying, “I never imagined my story would leave such a meaninghul mark on the land i love so much”.

With this work, Barranquilla not only honors one of its most internacionally recognized daughters but also stongthens the malecón as a cultural landras.

written by: Alexandra Padilla Cervantes 9-º

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Barranquilla Carnival Breaks Records as South America’s Top Festival

Barranquilla celebrated its annual Carnival, attracting more visitors than ever before. The event, held in February 2025, has made history and positioned the city as South America's leading festival destination.

The Barranquilla Carnival, recognized by UNESCO and the World Travel Awards, received almost 800,000 visitors in 2025, including thousands of international tourists. Over four exciting days, more than 6.7 million spectators joined the vibrant festivities, enjoying spectacular parades like the Batalla de Flores, colorful dances and traditional music. Hotels reached 100% occupancy, generating an economic impact of more than $880,000 million Colombian pesos. The carnival was celebrated across the city with over 360 free events, showcasing Barranquilla’s cultural heritage and energetic party spirit.

The record-breaking Barranquilla Carnival has reinforced the city’s global reputation for culture, celebration, and tourism, showing the world why it is South America’s top festival destination.

Juan Manuel Guiza Hoyos 9°

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"The 'Shark' Passion at the Metropolitano: A Night of Glory for Barranquilla"

Describe the atmosphere before the match: the excitement in the streets, the red and white colors all over the city, and the importance of the match for the team's aspirations. Introduce the setting, the Estadio Metropolitano, and the challenge that Junior de Barranquilla faced.

Narrate the development of the match. Describe the most notable plays, the tension among the crowd, and the opposing team's goal that tested Junior's resilience. Then, detail the key moment: the winning goal, the explosion of jubilation in the stadium, and the players' celebration. You can describe how people in the stands reacted, the intensity of the game, and the skill of the key players.

Summarize the importance of the event for the city. Talk about how the victory was not just a sports triumph but a reflection of the Barranquilla spirit: joyful, a fighter, and full of faith. Conclude with the celebration after the match and the feeling of pride that united all the city's inhabitants.

Name: Geidys barrios 10

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The Central American and Caribbean Games Barranquilla 2018

In 2018, the city of Barranquilla hosted the Central American and Caribbean Games, an event that brought together thousands of athletes from all over the region. This competition was a great opportunity to showcase the culture and sporting spirit of the city.

The games were held from July 19 to August 3, 2018, with the participation of 37 countries. More than 5,000 athletes competed in different sports such as athletics, swimming, soccer, basketball, and cycling. Sports venues like the Metropolitano Stadium and the Elías Chegwin Coliseum were renovated to welcome the competitors. In addition to the competitions, the event included cultural performances that reflected the joy and traditions of the people of Barranquilla.

The 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games were a success for Barranquilla. They not only left medals and records but also improved sports infrastructure and unforgettable memories for everyone who participated and attended. This event proved that the city is ready to host international-level competitions

Name: Dana Julio 10°

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los juegos centroamericanos y del caribe Barranquilla, imágen 

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Interschool Football Match Thrills Students

Last Friday, our school hosted an exciting interschool football match against Green Valley School. Students, teachers, and parents gathered to cheer for their teams.

The match started at 3:00 p.m. on the main football field. Both teams played with great energy and skill. The first half ended with a score of 1–1, but in the second half our school scored the winning goal. The crowd was full of excitement, waving flags and shouting encouragement.

In my opinion, this match was not only fun but also a great way to promote teamwork and friendship between schools. Next month, there will be a rematch at Green Valley School, and everyone is already looking forward to it.

MARIA ANGEL FERREIRA BLANCO

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A Cleaner Caribbean Sea! Massive Cleanup Campaign at Playa de Puerto Mocho.

Last Saturday the Barranquilla community came together in a major cleanup campaign to leave Playa de Puerto Mocho free of waste. Led by the volunteer group "Guardianes del Río Magdalena," dozens of people gathered to tackle the growing plastic pollution.

The event, which started at 9 a.m., had the enthusiastic participation of students from Universidad del Norte and Barranquilla residents. Armed with gloves and bags, the volunteers scoured the beach from end to end, collecting all kinds of trash. By the end of the day, they had managed to collect an impressive total of over 500 kilograms of garbage, which was sorted for later recycling.

The campaign not only had an immediate visual impact on the beach, but also served as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that "The Golden Gate of Colombia" has towards the Caribbean environment. The organizers hope that this event will inspire more Barranquilleros to adopt sustainable habits and participate in future initiatives to protect our valuable natural resources.

Name: Valentina Orozco 10

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Alcaldía de Barranquilla, Distrito Especial, Industrial y Portuario

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Barranquilla sí tiene playa: más de 1 tonelada de residuos fueron retirados de Puerto Mocho – Alcaldía de Barranquilla, Distrito Especial, Industrial y Portuario

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Disfrutar de la única playa urbana que tiene Barranquilla será pronto una…

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This August, the Gran Malecón of Barranquilla became an open-air gallery showcasing life-sized sculptures of beloved celebrities—Shakira and Sofía Vergara—created by local sculptor Yino Márquez.

Yino Márquez, originally from Magdalena, crafted monumental sculptures of Shakira and Sofía Vergara, now exhibited prominently in the city’s historic promenade. His creative process blends deep research, technological tools, and a strong sense of local identity. Working from his La Paz workshop—and with the support of his son, Camilo, who simulates installations—Márquez molds clay into pieces weighing up to five tons. He imbues his art with Caribbean symbolism: Shakira’s skirt flows like waves, symbolizing the river and the sea, while Sofía’s attire blends elegance with the vibrant colors of the Caribbean.

These sculptures do more than decorate; they tell a story. Through them, Barranquilla honors its cultural diversity and creative spirit. Márquez’s work inspires young people by showing how local talent and technology can transform public spaces into sources of connection and pride. This art installation is a compelling invitation for teens to explore and contribute to the cultural legacy of their city

Reported by David Alfonso

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Nacido en un corregimiento de Magdalena, Márquez se abrió camino hasta destacarse como uno de los principales escultores del Caribe colombiano. "Son heroínas", dice sobre las dos artistas

Yino Márquez sostiene una pierna del modelado de la escultura de Shakira, en su taller, en Barranquilla, el 17 de julio de 2025. Mariano Vimos

La voz de un soldado se escucha bajo el sol ardiente de Barranquilla, capital del departamento del Atlántico en la costa Caribe colombiana:

-"Un paso al frente... A la derecha; no tanto. ¡Quieto ahí!"

El Gran Malecón, que recorre cinco kilómetros bordeando el río Magdalena, está cerrado en la tarde calurosa de jueves para el ensayo de un desfile militar. La instrucción del soldado no busca una alineación perfecta. Se dirige a uno de los compañeros que estira su uniforme y saca pecho junto a la imponente escultura de Shakira. Las caderas de bronce de la estrella barranquillera parecen sacudirse con la fuerza de la brisa.

-"¡Como si estuviera bailando con ella! ¡Sonría!", grita el soldado que ha encontrado el mejor ángulo mientras captura la foto con el móvil.

El creador de la escultura de 6,5 metros de altura, Yino Márquez, observa la escena con la misma fascinación que sintió cuando su profesor de colegio, Álvaro Tirado, lo llevó a conocer el taller de bellas artes de la Universidad del Atlántico. "Él fue el que identificó mi talento cuando estaba en bachillerato. Me veía haciendo dibujos y un día me dice: 'vamos a bellas artes para que vea cómo es'. Quedé impresionado. Me matriculé y ahí comencé", recuerda.

Márquez, de 54 años, nació en un corregimiento del municipio del Plato (Magdalena), a cinco horas de Barranquilla en carro. No alcanzó a conocer al padre que se marchó, pero le bastó el amor materno. La mamá salió del pueblo con cuatro hijos pequeños, en busca de nuevos horizontes. Márquez, el menor de todos, apenas tenía edad para entrar al jardín. La madre les aseguró educación trabajando como empleada doméstica.

Vivían en el barrio La Esmeralda, en una zona del suroccidente de Barranquilla, donde el padre Cyrillus Swinne, un sacerdote holandés que llegó en la década de los setenta, ayudaba a aliviar las preocupaciones. "Estudié en el Colegio Comunal Mixto que lidera el padre Cirilo. Tenía teatro, artes plásticas, danza y uno podía escoger. Ahí fue donde conocí al profesor Álvaro. Era un colegio privado, pero el cura ayudaba a las familias. A mi vieja, que no tenía con qué, le daban la pensión y la matrícula", narra Márquez, delgado y de estatura media, con mirada fija detrás de los anteojos.

Cursó la carrera universitaria con el mismo interés que lo asaltó cuando conoció el taller de escultura. Finalizando sus estudios universitarios, Márquez se ganó una convocatoria para levantar una de sus primeras esculturas: las manos enamoradas. Cuando las moldeó, no quiso resignarse a que la pasión que expresaban aquellas manos entrecruzadas quedara oculta y se empeñó en instalarlas en un lugar público. "No conseguí ni una varilla", rememora entre risas.

En la campaña presidencial de 1998, el barranquillero Gustavo Bell, fórmula a la vicepresidencia de Andrés Pastrana, conoció a Márquez. "En una correría de esas, el padre Cirilo lo lleva a mi taller. Bell entra, ve esas manos y se queda sorprendido. 'Si llego a ser vicepresidente te apoyo', me dijo", relata el escultor. Tras el triunfo en las elecciones, llegaron vehículos cargados de hierro y cemento. Bell no solo permitió que la escultura se montara en el parque de Los Enamorados, sino que gestionó una beca para que Márquez se especializara en España.

"Me daban 1.000 euros mensuales para estudiar en Barcelona. En esa época era platica. Yo ahorraba y pude quedarme cuatro años. Vendía cuadros y así fui a otras ciudades. Con un tiquete, cada vez que daban vacaciones a los estudiantes, uno montaba en tren a cualquier ciudad de Europa, era fantástico", recuerda.

El escultor en las calles

El arte que Márquez conoció en Barcelona se le quedó en la memoria. "Barcelona me enseñó mucho. Si trabajas con la identidad del lugar hay más impacto. ¿Yo qué voy a hacer una escultura abstracta? Pasará desapercibida", afirma frente a su mesa de dibujo, en el taller de la parte trasera de su casa en el barrio La Paz. Sobre los escaparates de madera tiene pinturas, utensilios y una colección de maquetas de bustos y esculturas.

Una familia se toma fotos junto a la escultura de la actriz colombiana Sofía Vergara, en el malecón de Barranquilla. Mariano Vimos

Cuando regresó a Barranquilla, la ciudad se convirtió en enclave de su creatividad. Sus esculturas sobresalen en parques, calles y plazoletas, incluidas las de la cantante y compositora Esthercita Forero y la del cartagenero Joe Arroyo, leyenda de la salsa y la música tropical. "Cuando se pone un personaje nuestro, llega a mucha gente. Son populares y la gente los quiere tocar", dice el escultor. Sus esculturas más famosas, sin embargo, son las figuras de Shakira y la famosa actriz y modelo Sofía Vergara, que se imponen en el Gran Malecón.

Las creaciones de Márquez comienzan desde antes de dibujarlas. "Caminando, voy pensando; antes de acostarme, durmiendo me imagino lo que voy a crear, ¿oíste?", revela con acento costeño. Luego se sumerge en fotos, videos y documentos. "En el caso de Sofía, vi muchas entrevistas, la serie reciente de ella en Netflix me la tiré toda".

Su hijo Camilo, un ingeniero de sistemas de 27 años, hace una simulación de cómo se verán las esculturas instaladas. La mente de Márquez se eleva. Sus manos comienzan a dar forma a la imagen moldeando la arcilla con la paciencia que lleva hasta la punta de los dedos; todo un desafío para esculturas que terminarán pesando cinco toneladas. "Es un artista auténtico, apasionado y muy creativo. Cada escultura que hace tiene su esencia. Es detallista y fiel a su estilo", destaca Olga Cervantes su esposa, licenciada en educación preescolar.

Márquez trabaja en el taller doméstico y en otro más grande a pocas cuadras. "Me gusta el clima, la gente. Y me gusta el Caribe, ese sol, ese mar, esa brisa en diciembre", dice mientras camina hacia el sitio bajo los árboles que dan sombra a las calles del barrio. Dedicó entre seis y siete meses para esculpir a las celebridades en un espacio de unos cuatro metros cuadrados, demarcado por andamios y rodeado de polisombras donde solo entra el calor sofocante que pega la ropa al cuerpo. "No tengo mucha distancia para verlas. Yo veo la figura completa ya terminada, puesta allá".

Con Shakira enfrentó el apretado paso del tiempo. "La hice de los pies al ombligo, sacamos los moldes y se empezó la fundición, mientras terminaba la otra parte", recuerda. "En el recorrido pueden cambiar cosas. A Shakira le puse la falda que se convierte en olas, que simboliza el río y el mar. En la de Sofía jugué con los colores del Caribe colombiano. Le hice un traje con corte de sirena porque la quería ver elegante, pero eso no estaba metido en el negocio".

Los fundidores -que reciben los moldes con la réplica del modelado en arcilla para la elaboración final en bronce- le dicen, en tono divertido, que con él podrían quebrar. "Es tremendo, demasiado exigente con sus obras. Es de un nivel de detalle bárbaro. Lo más retador son los rostros. Hay que llenarse de paciencia porque a veces uno dice: lo veo bien, pero él dice: 'no, no me gusta, hay que volver a repetirlo", asegura Fabiricio Villareal, fundidor de 60 años. Llevan casi media vida trabajando juntos.

"Es una persona apasionada por su trabajo, a veces le digo que se pasa de responsable... Es muy perfeccionista, un poco ansioso con el tiempo y siempre quiere que las cosas se hagan bien", coincide Cenia Morales, coordinadora administrativa de la escuela distrital de arte donde Márquez es coordinador de artes plásticas. Algunos alumnos participan en sus obras.

- "Quedó muy linda [la escultura de Sofía Vergara, recién inaugurada]. Ya me hice una foto con ella", le dice una mujer que lo ve entrar a la escuela, antes del paseo por el Malecón.

El profesor sonríe. "Cada escultura es un reto que trato con el mismo respeto. Quiero que la gente se sienta bien con la obra, que la defienda y la haga trascender en el tiempo", comenta. Cuando sus esculturas se develan, siente un vacío. "A veces me siento como desamparado cuando termino, me siento huérfano. Con Shakira yo amanecía en el taller, desayunaba allá, almorzaba allá, cenaba allá".

Márquez abraza la modestia. "Se hace pasar por visitante en las esculturas. No le gusta atraer las miradas", dice su hijo Camilo. La contemplación es para su obra. Como la que dedican los soldados que buscan la mejor pose junto a Shakira. No se detienen ante la imagen de un personaje con rango militar, sino frente a sus ídolas colombianas. "Son heroínas, son grandes porque vencieron obstáculos en el camino", concluye el escultor. Los uniformados lo animan a unirse a la foto del grupo.

Más información

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Yino Márquez, el escultor de Shakira y Sofía Vergara, que acerca las celebridades a Barranquilla

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Nacido en un corregimiento de Magdalena, Márquez se abrió camino hasta destacarse como uno de los principales escultores del Caribe colombiano. "Son heroínas", dice sobre las dos artistas

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The Barranquilla Marathon at the Gran Malecón

The Barranquilla Marathon is an annual athletic event that has gained popularity, attracting thousands of runners. Recently, the event used the iconic Gran Malecón del Río as its main stage.

The marathon was not just a race, but a sports festival with different distances so that everyone could participate. From the most experienced athletes who ran the 42 kilometers to the beginners who joined the 5K race, everyone shared the same goal. The route offered participants panoramic views of the Magdalena River and the modern spaces of the Malecón, creating a unique experience.

The Barranquilla Marathon is not only a sports competition but also a celebration of the community spirit and urban development of the city. By using the Gran Malecón as its venue, the event reaffirms Barranquilla's commitment to sports and to promoting its public spaces as meeting and recreation points for everyone.

Name: Valery Cury Guillin 10

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Barranquilla, la puerta de oro del Caribe

Vibrante, acogedora y llena de historia, Barranquilla es el punto de encuentro entre el río Magdalena y el mar Caribe. Su famosa brisa, su gente cálida y su energía inagotable hacen de esta ciudad un destino imperdible.

¡Vívela, recórrela y déjate contagiar por su alegría!

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Barranquilla, la puerta de oro del Caribe Vibrante, acogedora y llena de historia, Barranquilla es el punto de encuentro entre el río Magdalena y el mar Caribe. Su famosa brisa, su gente cálida y su energía inagotable hacen de esta ciudad un destino imperdible. ¡Vívela, recórrela y déjate contagiar por su alegría!

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Marathon on the Barranquilla seawall

A foot race on the Barranquilla seawall last Sunday, July 6, generated significant economic benefits.

This event was one of the most attended by the city’s economy. Renowned radio stations such as Alimpica Esterio were also present, along Erith Dj Javier Echeverrí.In addition to the guests, there were security measures such as ambulantes and hydration stations

At the end of this sporting event At the end of this sporting event, 20 won first place and 30 won and were in second place. The other contestants who came in third and fourth place after the awards ceremony a celebration in honor of the winners

Journalist Guillermo Escorcia

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Carrera Rio 15k | Barranquilla | 6 de julio

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Carrera Rio 15k en Barranquilla | 6 de julio de 2024 | Regístrate ahora.

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Title: Feid's Amazing Concert in Barranquilla

A recent music concert took place in Barranquilla, and it was one of the most exciting events in the city. Feid, a famous reggaeton singer, performed at the Romelio Martínez stadium on July 20th. Thousands of fans came to enjoy the show.

The concert was full of energy. There were colorful lights, dancers on stage, and very loud music. People were singing and dancing all night. Some special guests also joined the concert. It was an unforgettable

night for everyone who attended.

This event was important because it brought happiness to the city, attracted tourists, and helped the local economy. Barranquilla showed once again that it is a city full of life and music.

Reported by Taliana Diaz Ninth grade