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2000
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WOW NEWS
People Enjoy New Beaches Of Vieques
By Proviana Colon Diaz of WOW News
May 4, 2003
VIEQUES — It has been four years since the last time Jorge Gonzalez was able to bathe in the crystal clear waters of Caracas beach, also known as Red beach. Since May 1, however, he has been able to enjoy it.
"They (U.S. Navy) left it pretty much ok. I am very happy to be here," Gonzalez said.
The 56 year-old resident from Vieques was enjoying the day at the beach with friends and relatives. As he set up beach toys for the younger ones he recalled how that beach would be used by the U.S. Navy to unload gas for its vehicles at U.S. Camp Garcia.
"See, the platform is still there," said Gonzalez as he pointed out to the distance.
Following the turmoil of May 1, many residents, visitors, and tourists visited Caracas and Manuel Key beaches. The U.S. Navy used to called them Red Beach and Blue Beach, respectively.
Former political prisoner Dylcia Pagan was also enjoying herself at the beach with a group of people from New York. She said they had renamed the beach "La
Colora", which means 'the red one.'
One of her companions, Maria Kerkedo, said the beauty of the beach mesmerized her.
"It's a shame we didn’t get to enjoy it for so long," Kerkedo said.
Since Wednesday, the two pristine beaches have become part of a wild life reserve under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
Access to the area is controlled, but not restricted.
Signs reading "danger zone" and "environmental site" can be seen at different points of the reserve.
The areas will remain closed to the public until the cleanup and removal of ordnance are done.
On Saturday, the gubernatorial transition committee for Vieques was scheduled to visit the off limits area along with Fish and Wildlife personnel.
Dozens of cars could be seen going up and down the roads wondering around the area that for over sixty years had been used as a target range for ship to shore U.S. Navy military practices.
The observation point, were civilian guard David Sanes was killed by an accidental bombing in 1999 and the roads into the areas where most practices were held will remain closed pending the clean up.
Meanwhile visitors will be able to swim or simply enjoy the beautiful beaches.
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