10th Annual Universal Pasteles Contest

 the 10th Annual Universal Pasteles Contest

Saturday Nov. 16, 2024

el Barrio Artspace
215 E 99th Street New York NY 10029
bet. 3rd and 2nd Ave
FREE ADMISSION

The 10th Annual Universal Pasteles Contest’s Program 2-9 pm

12-12:30 Contestants Sign-in Pasteles Drop-off. One minute after 12:30 you will be a disqualification

1:30- 1:45 pm Judges arrive for voting instructions

2 pm Doors open for the public

2:30-3:00  Welcoming remarks, Judges' Public Introduction, and Honor walk to the Judges' Tables for the Traditional Pasteles segment.

3:05-4:05 pm The Traditional Pasteles judging begins

4:10-4:30 pm Awardees Presentation

4:35-4:55 pm Judges Introduction and Honor Walk for the Multicultural Pasteles segment.

5-5:30 pm Vegan Pasteles Judging

5-6 pm Judging period and a Singer performance during.

6:15 - 6:45 pm Winners announced awards presented, and photo shoots.

7-7:45 Entertainer(s)

7:50-9 p.m. Continue music and dancing.

9 pm End the day’s Celebration.

Note: Music and dancing will be ongoing during judging…

Puerto Rican pasteles are a holiday tradition that brings families together: 

• Preparation: The labor-intensive process of making pasteles requires multiple steps and an assembly line approach. Each family member is usually assigned a task, such as grating, mixing, stuffing, or wrapping.
• Memories: Making pasteles is a time for family to connect, laugh, and share jokes. 
• Gift-like experience: Unwrapping a pastel is similar to unwrapping a gift. 
• Special occasion: Pasteles are a classic tradition for holidays and special occasions.
• Family recipes: Each Puerto Rican family has their own recipe for the masa and filling.
• Variations: There are many variations on the dish, including using yuca instead of green plantain. 
• Serving: Pasteles can be served on their own or with sides like rice and beans, escabeche, or roasted pork. They can also be topped with a dollop of hot sauce or ketchup.
• Freezing: Pasteles can be frozen to eat later, up to the start of Lent. 

Healthy Rican Founder Mayra Luz Colon

 

At Healthy Rican, we’re on a mission to bring the tasty culture-rich flavors of Latin and Puerto Rican cuisine to kitchens everywhere, while promoting a healthier lifestyle. Born from a deep love for our cultural heritage and a commitment to wellness, Healthy Rican offers an exciting line of all-natural seasonings crafted with the finest ingredients nature has to offer.

At Healthy Rican, we believe that people no longer have to choose between quick ‘n’ easy or healthy. We exist so that healthy eaters no longer have to choose between quick bland meals, or tasty culture-rich dishes. Healthy Rican bridges the gap. Because we all deserve to live a healthy life con sazón!

“We are more than a brand, we are familia.”

Our Story

As a Latina Woman, seeking for healthy alternatives to my favorite foods, I felt underrepresented in the Health, Wellness, and Nutrition world. I couldn’t find much out there that would fit my needs. After studying at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, and learning how food can impact our health, I started re-creating my favorite Puerto Rican foods in a healthy way.

Soon, my friends and family started asking me for my tips and recommendations. That is when I discovered there was a need in our community. I founded my blog nutritiondork.com as a place where I could share my health and wellness journey, wellness tips, coaching services, resources, and healthy recipes.

Shortly after, I decided to write a cookbook to share not only my recipes, but tips on how to choose healthy ingredients, how to combine food for a healthy digestion, and more. While working on the cookbook it ignited my passion for sharing the love for my culture and its wonderful cuisine. During this journey, I discovered that there weren’t many healthy options for our cultural staple seasonings. Most brands in stores contain artificial ingredients and preservatives. While they may be used for looks and shelf life, they certainly don’t add to our health. Leaving not much room for natural ingredients which provide the real flavor #PuroSabor.

About the Founder

Mayra Luz Colón is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach who’s obsessed with superfoods and family meal time. Known as the Nutrition Dork, Mayra is the driving force behind the Healthy Rican brand, bringing tasty Puerto Rican recipes and seasonings to homes everywhere.

Mayra is also the author of the cookbook Healthy Rican: Put the Latin Spice in your Healthy Life! She’s on a mission to banish bland foods and provide tasty alternatives for everyday people who want to eat well.

Mayra’s vision is to serve women stuck in their own health and wellness journey. To teach women how to unlock their true selves while embarking on a complete lifestyle and mindset reset.

Following your heart, your gut, and your wisdom is the key to well-being. Nutrition is a tool to guide us during the process—and Healthy Rican’s nutritious products and motivational services light the way.

 

 

 

 

 

Available Products from Healthy Rican

Single Adobo

Single Small Sofrito Seasoning

Single Sazon

November Horoscopes from Boricua.com

 

November Horoscopes

November is a month of intense energy and transformation. The Scorpio New Moon on November 1st brings new beginnings and opportunities for growth. However, Mercury retrograde from November 26th onwards may cause communication challenges and delays. Overall, November is a time for reflection, introspection, and making significant changes in your life.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

November sparks a surge of energy, dear Aries! You’ll find yourself motivated to tackle long-standing projects. The cosmos are aligned for breakthroughs in your career. But be cautious—don’t let impulsiveness override patience in relationships. Listen to your partner’s needs. Mid-month, opportunities for travel or study open doors to exciting adventures. Keep your focus on self-care to balance out this high-paced energy.

Taurus (April 20–May 20)

November invites you to reflect, dear Taurus. Relationships take center stage, offering chances for deeper connections. You may be pulled to reassess your values, especially around finances and emotional security. Venus encourages beauty and indulgence, so don’t be surprised if you’re drawn to the finer things in life. Be mindful, however, of overspending. This month is ideal for building long-term plans—lay those foundations now!

Gemini (May 21–June 20)

Curiosity is your keyword this November, Gemini! The stars bring social events and new connections that could open professional doors. Communication flows smoothly, but be careful not to spread yourself too thin. Your wit will be your greatest asset, yet make time for introspection as well. Love is lighthearted but offers depth if you open up emotionally. Keep things balanced.

Cancer (June 21–July 22)

Your home and family life come into focus, Cancer. You’ll feel the urge to nest and create a sanctuary as the cooler months settle in. There’s a shift in your emotional world, helping you confront past wounds and heal. Pay close attention to your intuition, especially when it comes to family matters. This month could bring financial windfalls or opportunities to increase your stability.

Leo (July 23–August 22)

The spotlight finds you, Leo! This month, the universe gifts you with the confidence to lead and express yourself. Creativity is at an all-time high, and you’ll attract admirers both professionally and personally. However, balance is key—don’t burn out trying to be everything to everyone. Love takes on a playful tone, but meaningful connections are possible if you stay open-hearted.

Virgo (August 23–September 22)

November offers you a moment to slow down, Virgo. You’ll be called to reflect on your work-life balance and health. Take time to detox, declutter, and organize your physical and mental space. This month may bring clarity in financial matters, helping you restructure for the future. Love blooms quietly; a practical approach can lead to deeper emotional fulfillment. Trust the process.

Libra (September 23–October 22)

The winds of change blow gently in your direction, Libra. Relationships flourish as you become more attuned to your partner’s needs. If single, this could be the month someone special enters your life. Diplomacy will be your superpower, but don’t lose sight of your own desires. The Full Moon in Taurus at the end of the month could bring clarity around finances.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

Happy Birthday, Scorpio! This is your season, and the universe amplifies your passion and determination. You’re magnetic, and others will notice your powerful energy. However, keep an eye on your emotions, as intensity could lead to overreaction. This is a month of deep transformation, whether it’s in your career, love, or personal growth. Embrace the mystery and let your intuition guide you.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

November opens the door to new horizons, Sagittarius. Travel, education, and personal expansion are all highlighted. You’ll feel a thirst for adventure and a desire to break free from the routine. It’s also a perfect time to explore spirituality and your deeper purpose. Relationships take on a philosophical tone, but remember to stay grounded. The end of the month brings clarity around long-term goals.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

Capricorn, November focuses on your inner world. This is a time to reassess your goals, finances, and the structures of your life. You may feel the need to withdraw and recharge, allowing space for contemplation. Family or home-related matters may come up, urging you to find balance. By month’s end, new opportunities arise in your career—stay diligent and patient.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

Innovation is key for you, Aquarius! November brings a fresh wave of ideas, and your social circle will be buzzing with activity. Collaborations could lead to exciting ventures, so don’t hesitate to share your unique vision. However, be mindful of burnout—schedule downtime for self-care. In love, someone unexpected could make an appearance, offering a refreshing dynamic.

Pisces (February 19–March 20)

Dreamy Pisces, November brings focus to your career and reputation. You’ll feel a creative surge in your professional life, with opportunities for recognition. Be prepared to step into the spotlight! Balance is necessary, though—your emotional and spiritual health also need attention. In relationships, vulnerability will deepen connections, but ensure you’re not overextending yourself. Trust in your intuition as your guide.

How to Get the Health Care You Want and Need

 [caption id="attachment_19532" align="alignnone" width="640"] Home caregiver helping senior woman to walk[/caption]

Older Adults Speak Out About Aging

(Family Features) Older adults in America often face a harsh reality when it comes to health care. While Baby Boomers are living longer than prior generations, they are more likely to struggle to get the care they need due to financial challenges, hard-to-navigate health insurance coverage and widening gaps between who receives high-quality care and who doesn’t.

They’re now speaking up about how the health care system isn’t listening to them. Older adults want care that adds life to their years, not just years to their life, according to research from Age Wave and The John A. Hartford Foundation. Just 1 in 10 older adults surveyed gave the U.S. health care system an “A” grade, and 4 in 5 (82%) said it is not prepared for the evolving needs of America’s aging population.

“The United States is on the brink of an age wave of unprecedented proportions, and American health care requires a radical and immediate rethink to match our health spans – being able to live every year to its fullest – to our lifespans,” said Ken Dychtwald, founder and CEO of Age Wave.

Older adults’ top concerns include:

• Health span matters more than lifespan: 97% of older adults agree being healthy means being able to do the things they want to do throughout their lives.
• Affordability: 68% of older adults are concerned about being able to afford future health and long-term care needs like nursing home care.
• Talking about what matters: More than 40% of older adults who have a health care provider are not being asked what matters to them regarding their health by their clinicians.

“It’s important for people to know they can demand age-friendly care,” said Terry Fulmer, president of The John A. Hartford Foundation. “Clinicians can make changes to better provide care that’s based on what matters most to their patients. It’s a win-win for older adults and providers.”

3 Ways to Get the Care Older Adults Need

Older adults who receive age-friendly care, or care that prioritizes their preferences, are more likely to report having a good health span than those who do not. They’re also more likely to remain socially and physically active and follow a healthy diet.

There are tools to help older adults get age-friendly care:

1. Check if local care providers offer age-friendly care, and if they don’t, ask “why not?” Age-friendly care is offered in more than 4,000 care settings across the country. Use an online tool to find an age-friendly hospital or practice at org/agefriendly.
2. Talk to clinicians about care preferences using the 4 M’s.
   • What Matters: As people age, their care needs may change. Use an online guide to identify health priorities and start discussions with care providers.
   • Medication: Ask about the side effects of prescriptions using a tip sheet.
   • Mind: Learn about the signs of memory decline and what to do about it.
   • Mobility: Create an activity plan to help you keep moving and stay healthy.
3. Learn more about age-friendly care.

For more information about how older adults view health care and resources to get needed care, visit johnahartford.org/crossroads.

Photo courtesy of iStock

Why This Mom is Advocating For Flu Vaccination

 

(BPT) - Like many seven-year-olds, Kaden Stevenson was active and healthy, enjoying martial arts and soccer. When Kaden's mom Michele noticed he wasn't his usual energetic self, she assumed he might have a cold or stomach bug. But after four days of rest, he was getting worse, and he was starting to complain that his right leg hurt. As soon as Michele noticed swelling in his leg and the rash all over his body, she took him to the emergency room.

Kaden was airlifted to a children's hospital where a pediatric orthopedic surgeon could relieve the pressure in his leg. He was diagnosed with influenza A and strep. As a complication of influenza, bacteria had entered Kaden's bloodstream, causing him to go into toxic shock. In addition to being at risk of losing his leg, Kaden's heart, liver and kidneys were failing.

Kaden spent two weeks in pediatric intensive care, where Michele learned her son would need both legs amputated due to the infection in his bloodstream. He’s lucky to have survived the ordeal. "I thought I might lose him," said Michele.

Kaden has learned to thrive with his new "robot legs," and his family is grateful for the medical team who helped save his life. Michele learned firsthand how critical it is to prioritize annual flu vaccination, and she wants parents to understand the importance of getting their children over 6 months of age to get vaccinated against the flu every year.

"Pay attention to your kids, because it's easy as parents to think we know it all," said Michele. "You know your child, but when they're young, they don't always know how to express themselves. Don't assume you can fix everything on your own."

Both of Kaden’s legs were amputated due to flu complications.

 

Not the common cold

Influenza, or the flu, is different from a cold. Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but sometimes flu can lead to complications (such as pneumonia) which can lead to hospitalization and death.¹

Flu may impact each person differently, but symptoms can appear suddenly and include fever (or feeling feverish/chills), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue.¹

The flu is very contagious. People can begin spreading flu to others one day before symptoms start, and up to a week after becoming sick — and some, especially young children, might be contagious to others for even longer.² Flu viruses are spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk.² Getting a flu vaccination annually can help prevent the flu for both you and your family.

Who may experience flu complications

Flu can impact anyone, of any age, race and gender² — even people who feel healthy — and serious problems related to flu can happen at any age.² However, some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick,² including people 65 years and older, people with certain chronic health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease), pregnant women and young children.^2,3

Vaccination is especially important for people across diverse racial and ethnic minorities, who may also be at higher risk for getting flu or developing serious illness.⁴ From 2009-2023, flu hospitalization rates have often been higher among Hispanic, Black, American Indian or Alaska Native adults.⁴ One issue is that people from some racial and ethnic minority groups face barriers to healthcare in general and, specifically, lack easy access to vaccination.⁴

When and where to get protection

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best way to protect against flu is for everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated annually.^2,5 If you don't have insurance or a primary care doctor, ask your local pharmacist about flu vaccination.

Protecting your family is crucial during flu season — October through May — peaking between December and February.⁶

"The best way your family can stay healthy is by getting a flu vaccination, ideally by late October," said pharmacist and GSK vaccines educator Dr. Leah Smith. "Vaccination doesn't mean you'll never get the flu, but it can lessen the severity of symptoms and prevent flu complications."

If you or a family member is unable to get vaccinated until November or later, vaccination is still recommended, because the flu typically peaks in February, and significant activity can continue into May.⁵

Getting flu vaccinations is typically quick and convenient, so you can help protect your family from the flu with minimal time commitment. Some locations like your local pharmacy may accept walk-ins. Vaccinations are usually free for people with medical insurance, including Medicaid, Medicare, ACA plans and private plans.⁷ Flu vaccinations are offered in healthcare settings including doctor's offices and clinics, but you can also get vaccinations in places like pharmacies, urgent care clinics, college health centers and some schools or workplaces.⁸

Ask your pharmacist or doctor about getting your flu vaccination this season. Learn more about flu prevention at CDC.gov/flu.

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1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu Symptoms & Complications. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/symptoms.htm. Accessed July 22, 2024.

2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Key Facts About Influenza (Flu). Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm. Accessed July 24, 2024.

3 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People at Higher Risk of Flu Complications. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/index.htm. Accessed July 24, 2024.

4 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health Equity and Flu. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/disparities-racial-ethnic-minority-groups.html. Accessed July 24, 2024.

5 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2024–25 Influenza Season. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/rr/rr7305a1.htm?s_cid=rr7305a1_w. Accessed August 30, 2024.

6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu Season. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/index.html. Accessed July 24, 2024.

7 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. How to Pay. Available at: https://www.hhs.gov/immunization/get-vaccinated/pay/index.html. Accessed July 24, 2024.

8 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Key Facts About Flu Vaccines. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm. Accessed July 24, 2024.

Home Insurance and Hurricane Preparations

 

Hurricane Damage in the Billions

The violent winds, rains and storm damage from hurricanes can devastate communities and cause billions of dollars worth of destruction. The losses from hurricanes this year alone have surpassed that from almost any other natural disaster in years. The risk to your home and possessions can be enormous and you really should be considering insurance cover for hurricane damage if you live in any area that is exposed to the risk of hurricane. As well as insurance cover however, there are other steps you can be taking to prepare for, and minimize the damage to your property and risk to your family that hurricanes pose.

Since the Atlantic hurricane season in June and continues through till the end of November, there is a significant of the year during which you should be in some way for hurricane threats. Some of the preparations below will be required by insurance policies, others will not but are still helpful to you and your family. Some of them may even be able to bring down your insurance policy price as the insurance company recognizes that you are safer than you otherwise would be and are therefore less likely to be making a claim.

Be Prepared

First of all you should be familiar with the terms of your insurance policy and any disaster preparedness and response plans they have. These will help you in the case that disaster does strike or you find yourself in need of making a claim.

If you think you may need to evacuate your area, you should contact the appropriate authorities before hand to know what those requirements will be. You should have a plan formulated in advance and if there are shelters nearby you should know where they are and how to get to them.

Hurricane Supply Kit

Keep supplies such as food, water, gasoline, portable radios and batteries stored somewhere safe so they will be available to you in the emergency. Several flashlights with extra batteries should be included. Copies of important identification and insurance documentation would also be useful in certain situations to speed up applications in the event that wide spread devastation occurs. Medical supplies such as aspirin and aspirin free painkillers, antacid, bandages, gauze and disinfectant are also useful.

While insurance is a very important step you should be taking to protect your possessions and family in the event of disaster, there are many other steps you can take to prepare for the situation also.

Boricua Giannina Braschi’s New Book Putinoika

 

Boricua author Giannina Braschi’s new book Putinoika is an epic tragicomedy of the Trump and Putin Era. Inspired by ancient Greek tragedies, Putinoika unfolds in three-parts: Palinode, Bacchae, and Putinoika. In a world flooding with collusion, delusion, and pollution, hope not only stands its ground in Putinoika, but it elevates us to higher realms with exhilarating new literary forms, poetic expressions, and a renewed faith in creativity. Putinoika insists that poets, philosophers, and lovers have the capacity to create on a scale greater than society’s capacity to destroy. If Waiting for Godot is a threnody of hope in the atomic age, Putinoika is the “Invictus” we didn’t know we were waiting for after the global pandemic.

 

Publisher:        Brown Ink, a new imprint of FlowerSong Press, curated by Frederick Luis Aldama

Illustrators:      Rosaura Rodríguez and Omar Banuchi of Días Cómic; Roi du Lac

ISBN-10: ‎       1963245784
ISBN-13: ‎       978-1963245783

Available through Amazon, FlowerSong Press, or any online bookseller.

 

Praise for Putinoika

 

“In Giannina Braschi’s churning imagination, in her exuberant, upwelling, hilarious and mortifying performances of wonderment, howl, synchronic time, ethical insistence, and linguistic swirl, it’s not unusual to find words such as ‘generosity’ and ‘spirit’ leading, in the same sentence, to ‘welfare,’ ‘radiation,’ and ‘tax deductions.’ If, as in Ezra Pound’s translation of Aristotle, the ‘swift perception of relations’ is truly the ‘hallmark of genius,’ it’s in the brightly lit halls of Braschi’s books where poetry is tested and stamped with such a mark. Like her character, Frenzy, she's a provocateur who believes in and pledges her fidelity only to ‘everything that exists.’”—Forrest Gander, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and Chancellor Emeritus of the Academy of American Poets

 

“Braschi’s most audacious and electrifying creation yet! This thrilling ride spans from classical Greece to front page news, where the supernatural dances with the mundane. Eccentric, hilarious, and profound, Putinoika is the rara avis of modern literature—a true original that shatters conventions and leaves an indelible mark on your soul. As Tony Kushner gives us Angels in America marking the AIDS epidemic and Perestroika, Braschi gives us Putinas in America amidst the global pandemic with Putinoika. Her fearless storytelling sweeps you off your feet.” —Nuria Morgado, Director, North American Academy of the Spanish Language

 

“A tour de force of philosophical poetry and poetical philosophy, offering a biting and hilarious denunciation of Trump’s America.” —Madelena Gonzalez, Chair, Anglophone Literature, University of Avignon

 

“This powerful, funny, profound, wise, crazed book is a wild ride. It is a bomb (a poem?, a novel?, a play?, fiction? essay?, comedy?, drama? all of the above?). It is a meditation on poetry, art, the pandemia, politics, Trump, his wall, the Putinas, the author, Puerto Rico, Oedipus, and Baudelaire. I laughed to tears here and there while the book displays one of the cruelest portraits of our times. Bravo!” —Carmen Boullosa, award-winning novelist and playwright

 

About the Iconic Puerto Rican Author

 

Boricua Giannina Braschi writes poetry, fiction, and political philosophy in Spanish, Spanglish, and English. Her epic works include El imperio de los sueños (Empire of Dreams), Yo-Yo Boing!, United States of Banana, and Putinoika. The Library of Congress calls Braschi “cutting-edge, influential, and even revolutionary,” and PEN America recognizes her as “one of the most revolutionary voices in Latin America today.” Her lifework is the subject of the anthology Poets Philosophers Lovers: On the Writings of Giannina Braschi, edited by Frederick Luis Aldama and Tess O’Dwyer. Braschi has received awards and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, New York Foundation for the Arts, Ford Foundation, Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña, and PEN America—as well as Lifetime Achievement honors from the North American Academy of the Spanish Language (ANLE), Cambio 16 news in Spain, and her native city of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

 

Terms frequently associated with Braschi include Postcolonial Literature, Latinx Philosophy, Postdramatic Theatre, McOndo, and Post-Boom. She goes simply by poet.