After making South Florida home, Venezuelans turning to politics

South Florida's burgeoning Venezuelan population is visible in culture, cuisine and commerce. As more Venezuelans become American citizens, politics is next. It's the American way, said Veronica Block, 44, a native of Venezuela who has lived in the U.S. for two decades and became a citizen in 2002. "I voted right away. That's the first thing I did. I wanted to be part of this country the right way," said Block, who lives west of Boca Raton. "I could not be a prouder citizen." Such sentiment is increasing, especially in places like Weston, referred to by many as "Westonzuela" because it is home to so many residents of Venezuelan ancestry. "Obviously there's an increase, and as time progresses, a lot of the Venezuelans who are now living in the United States are turning into registered voters," said Weston Commissioner Angel Gomez. More…