NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF PUERTO RICAN WOMEN-SoCal
NUESTRAS VOCES PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE AND RIGHTS THROUGH MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
VOL 3, DECEMBER 2025
WHO WE ARE
NACOPRW is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization seeking to promote the full participation of Puerto Rican and other Hispanic women in the social, economic and political life in the United States. The Southern California Chapter (SoCal) achieves this by educating, developing leadership among Puerto Rican women and providing role models for our youth and our community. NACOPRW-SoCal celebrates what unites all of us: our love and respect for Puerto Rico, its traditions and people. BOARD MEMBERS: GLORIA SAN MIGUEL, MBA, PRESIDENT MARJORIE PATTON, MS, CPC, ELI-MP 1ST VICE PRES. NILSA J. THORSOS, PH.D., 2ND VICE PRESIDENT SONIA COLÓN-LAMAS, BA, AFIP, TREASURER MARIE NUBIA FELICIANO, PH.D., SECRETARY
Editorial - Entre Nosotras PRESENTING OUR EDITORS FOR THIS ISSUE: Nilsa J. Thorsos & Gloria San Miguel
Dear Members and Friends, As we step into Winter, this final publication of 2025 offers a moment to reflect on a truly successful and vibrant year for the NACOPRW Southern California Chapter. More than a summary of events, this edition stands as a testament to the energy, commitment, and collective spirit of our members, to keep reading, and continue our philanthropy. Throughout the fall months and into winter, our chapter remained active and engaged. Our holiday recipe of arroz con dulce reminds us that traditions, food, and storytelling connect us across generations. This edition highlights our outstanding members, Mercedes Julian and Rocio, and this year’s Orgullo Boricua Recipient, Ingrid Otero-Smart, as we also proudly recognized our scholarship recipients, an investment that remains at the heart of our mission. The momentum continued through November 2025 Coquito Workshop and Fundraiser, which brought members together in celebration of culture and community while supporting our scholarship efforts. One of the most meaningful highpoints of this year was our participation in the National Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico. There, we were deeply honored to receive the 2025 Chapter of the Year Award, a recognition that reflects the dedication and impact of our collective work. This edition also captures memorable moments from the convention, including an inspiring meeting with Sila M. Calderón, the first Puerto Rican woman to serve as governor, which reminded us of the power of leadership, representation, and service. As we bring this year to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our members for their engagement, enthusiasm, and unwavering support. On behalf of NACOPRW-SoCal we wish you a joyful holiday. For our community, Christmas is a season filled with peace, connection, and celebration, wherever we may be, surrounded by loved ones. With appreciation and wishing you all a Happy New Year! We are pleased to announce the 2026 NACOPRW SoCal Executive Board:
For more information about our chapter, membership or donations visit us at:
www.nacoprwsocal.org
President: Gloria San Miguel First Vice President: Dr. Anaida Colón Muñiz Second Vice President: Dr. Nilsa J. Thorsos Secretary: Dr. Marie Nubia Feliciano Treasurer: Sonia Colón Lamas
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EL FOGÓN
BORICUA
Arroz Con Dulce: A Bridge to Puerto Rico by Nilsa J. Thorsos, Ph.D. During our winter break in December, my mother always did everything she could to get us to Puerto Rico. We were children of the diaspora, moving back and forth between the cold winters of the States and the island that always felt like home, no matter how long we’d been away. I now appreciate my mother's efforts to keep us connected to her traditions. The moment we walked into Abuelita’s house, time seemed to slow, and the rhythm of a Puerto Rican Christmas wrapped around us like a familiar, comforting blanket. On Christmas Eve morning, long before the sun was fully up, the kitchen was already buzzing. My mother, my aunts, and Abuelita prepared for our Noche Buena dinner, gathering ingredients, sharing tasks, and simmering the spice tea of cinnamon sticks, cloves, and ginger with rice. That warm, sweet aroma filled every corner of the house, becoming its own language, one we understood instinctively, even if we spent most of the year speaking English. We, kids, were the unofficial apprentices, hovering nearby, pretending to help but mostly absorbing the magic around us. Someone always turned on the radio, and soon the kitchen filled with tríos, aguinaldos, and classic Navidad songs. I can still hear “El Burrito de Belén” and José Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad” playing in the background. In those moments, the kitchen felt like the heart of the island. The women told stories—some repeated every year, others full of updates about relatives or the latest bochinches. Each story felt like a gift. They shared memories of their own childhoods in Puerto Rico, of mischievous cousins, and of Christmases when laughter was abundant even if resources weren’t. Every anecdote carried a piece of our family history, like ornaments passed down and lovingly polished over time. As the arroz con dulce thickened in the pot, we took turns stirring, the wooden spoon heavy with tradition. The mixture bubbled softly, releasing clouds of cinnamon-scented steam that seemed to pull us all together, those who lived on the island and those who lived far away—bridging our worlds for a moment in that warm, busy kitchen. When the arroz con dulce was finally poured into trays to cool, we knew the wait would be worth it. It wasn’t just a dessert. It was a bridge between here and there, between who we were in the States and who we became the moment we stepped onto Puerto Rican soil. It tasted like belonging. Even now, years later, the first swirl of spice tea in a pot transports me right back to that kitchen, where three generations stood shoulder to shoulder, stirring sweetness into memory. Christmas always began long before the first bite. Today, I share this tradition with my own grandchildren, who have become my new “apprentices,” helping stir the rice just as I once did. Enjoy this recipe, it's from my grandmother’s cherished repertoire. And don’t forget to check out a few videos listed below to help you get a feel for the technique. It’s a dish best learned by watching, listening, and feeling, just like we did. Ingredients 2 cans of coconut milk ½ Tbsp vanilla extract ½ tsp salt ½ tsp cinnamon 1 cup of soaked rice overnight (water drained) 1 oz box of raisins plus 2 Tbsp of liquid 2 Tbsp butter 1 cup granulated sugar ½ cup brown sugar ¼ cup coconut cream
Ingredients for spiced tea (1 ½ cup): 3-4 cinnamon sticks 1 piece of fresh ginger 2 star anise 5 allspice berries 10 whole cloves ½ tsp nutmeg Let it steep then take out the spices
Before you start cooking: Soak the rice overnight (make sure to use short or medium grain) Make a spice tea infused in the coconut milk (slowly infuse the tea, 12-15 minutes) low to medium heat Soak the ½ cup of raisins in Brandy or just water to rehydrate.
Instructions Nilsa is passionate about cooking Puerto Rican foods. She shares all the recipes with 1. Rinse the rice several times until the water runs clear. Soak her children and grandchildren. the rice in 2 cups of water (enough to cover), at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. When ready to cook, drain the rice and set it aside. 2. In a large caldero or pot, add 2 cans of coconut milk and the spice tea. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and keep the medium heat. 3. Add salt to the pot with the infused coconut milk (keep the cinnamon sticks). Then add drained rice. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. 4. Add the 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup brown sugar, and raisins to the rice and gently stir. Continue cooking at a simmer, uncovered, until the rice is tender and creamy, about 15 minutes. Add 2 Tbsp butter and ¼ cup coconut cream. Gently stir the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. It should look runny, but not soupy. The rice should be cooked and have a creamy texture. Take out the cinnamon sticks. 5. Pour the arroz con dulce into a dish and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon before serving.
Links to “arroz con dulce” tutorial videos: 1: Cooking con Omi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9boS7IVpR8 2. Jeff and Jo’s Puerto Rican Kitchen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Su6ql61emGs 3. *Aida’s Kitchen Boricua: https://aidaskitchenboricua.com/coconut-rice-pudding/
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MERCEDES JULIAN By Gloria San Miguel
This month, NACOPRW SoCal proudly spotlights Mercedes Julian, an amazing member, whose life reflects resilience, intellectual curiosity, and a deep commitment to community. A proud 100% “Cubanorriqueña”, Mercedes joined NACOPRW a few years ago as soon as she learned about the organization. She found her work on the Scholarship Committee last year especially rewarding and hopes to continue supporting this meaningful mission. This year’s Coquito Workshop was another highlight— productive, joyful, and a perfect example of NACOPRW’s spirit of “juntadera” and collaboration. Mercedes has called South Orange County home for the past 42 years, but her journey spans cultures and geographies. Born in Cuba in 1958, she was raised in Puerto Rico from ages four to fourteen, spent her adolescence in Decatur, Georgia, and arrived in San Diego in 1978, where she began her adult life. A lifelong learner and critical thinker, Mercedes earned a B.S. in Mathematics, a B.A. in Spanish, and a high school teaching credential from the University of Georgia. She later completed a master’s degree in Spanish at San Diego State University and was awarded a Ph.D. fellowship that brought her to Orange County. Professionally, Mercedes dedicated 27 years to the County of Orange as an Administrator of Education and Human Services programs for youths and adults, collaborating with agencies across the county to develop impactful initiatives, including vocational education for inmates and workforce pathways for high-priority youth. At the same time, she remained deeply connected to the classroom, serving as Adjunct Faculty at Irvine Valley College from 1984 through 2021, teaching Advanced Spanish and Conversation and Culture and Civilization.
Mercedes is a 100% “Cubanorriqueña. Here celebrating the Celia Cruz’ US Quarter celebration at UCI.
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Mercedes finds fulfillment by spending time with her family, particularly with Janice, her life partner of 43 years, her daughter, Kristina, and grandchildren, Gabriel, Elena and Sofia. She enjoys outdoor activities, travel, book clubs in English and Spanish, international films, and, of course, a good “basilón” with friends, especially if good food is involved. Mercedes Julian truly embodies the values, culture, and service that enrich NACOPRW. Thank you Mercedes for being a part of the NACOPRW SoCal family. Interested in joining NACOPRW-SoCal? Go to www.nacoprwsocal.org/membership and complete & send us your application to nacoprwsocal98@gmail.com
Mercedes and her family: Sofia, Janice, Gabriel, Kristina, Mercedes, and Elena during Kristina’s EdD graduation .
FLOW NATURAL: ROCIO DELGADO’S NEW EXHIBITION AT THE CAPITOL OF PUERTO RICO In October 2025, the historic Capitol of Puerto Rico was filled with color, movement, and emotion with the opening of Flow Natural, the latest exhibition by Puerto Rican artist and NACOPRW SoCal member, Rocío Delgado. The exhibition opened on October 14, 2025, at the José Tous Soto Gallery, located in the basement of the Capitol in San Juan, offering the public a visual experience inspired by the fluidity of nature and the connection between the natural environment and human emotion. Born in Ciales, Rocío Delgado presents in Flow Natural a series of works that explore movement, energy, and harmony between nature and the human spirit through a vibrant color palette and flowing compositions. The pieces reflect both her background in architecture and her artistic sensitivity, creating a bridge between structure and intuition.
From left to right: Monica D. Torres, esq., Rocío Delgado, and Representative Gabriel Rodriguez Aguiló.
The exhibition was promoted by the leadership of the Capitol with the goal of supporting local art and opening cultural spaces within this emblematic building, which is visited by both residents and visitors to Puerto Rico. Flow Natural not only celebrates Rocío’s talent but also highlights the diversity and richness of contemporary Puerto Rican art. The exhibition remained open to the public throughout October, allowing viewers of all ages to enjoy a proposal that invites reflection of nature through the artistic lens of a Puerto Rican creator with international reach. Rocío Delgado was awarded with the 2023 NACOPRW Dora Strope Art Award in our National Convention. On her website www.unrocioart.com you can purchase her art as well as beautiful fashion and accessories with her spectacular designs.
Rocío cutting the ribbon to open the exhibition. First row: (left to right): Sylvia Villafañe, Cuca San Miguel, Rocío Delgado., Americo Delgado,, Rep. Gabriel Rodríguez Aguiló, and Americo A. Delgado. Back row(left to right): Speaker of the House, Carlos “Johnny” Méndez Núñez, Mónica D. Torres, Juan Arturo Delgado, and José Lloveras.
A few of the pieces presented (from top to bottom): Natural Flow, Flow Natural 2, and Splash of Romance
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VOL 3, DECEMBER 2025
ORGULLO BORICUA 2025: INGRID OTERO-SMART LEADING WITH PURPOSE AND BUILDING LEGACY By Gloria San Miguel
On Saturday, 9/27/2025, the NACOPRW SoCal Chapter honored Ingrid Otero-Smart with the 2025 Orgullo Boricua Award. Ingrid is the President and CEO of Casanova//McCann, one of the most prestigious national and international advertising agencies. Past NACOPRW SoCal and National President, Dr. Anaida Colón-Muñiz, acted as the event’s Master of Ceremonies, introducing Ingrid’s outstanding career, as well as memories of Ingrid as part our Southern California Chapter. Stories about past events and even a Holiday “parranda” to her house brought warm memories and smiles to the audience.
Honorees with Former and Current Board Members: Left to right: Sonia Colón-Lamas, Marie Nubia Feliciano, Gloria San Miguel, Ingrid Otero-Smart, Hydee Feldstein Soto, Anaida Colón Muñiz, and Marjorie Patton.
During her remarks, Ingrid shared her personal journey and the lessons that shaped her leadership, reminding the audience that careers are rarely linear. A proud graduate of the University of Puerto Rico’s School of Communications, she began her career in advertising in Puerto Rico and decided to to get experience in the U.S. for a “couple of years” with plans to return home, never imagining that more than three decades later she would be part of a strong, colorful, and vibrant Puerto Rican diaspora. She reflected on the importance of keeping an open mind, learning from women leaders, and building organizations that celebrate culture and community. In 2020, during unprecedented global challenges, Ingrid made the bold decision to purchase the Casanova//McCann. Today, Casanova//McCann is a female-owned, minority agency recognized as one of the most honored Hispanic agencies and among the top-ranked firms in the U.S. and globally. Above all, Ingrid emphasized that true success is measured by impact, not titles. Her leadership philosophy centers on lifting others as we rise, mentoring future leaders, and using storytelling to create meaningful change. She closed by affirming that legacy is built every day—through courage, inclusivity, and purpose—and as a proud Boricua, she leads with a deep commitment to making her Island proud. She closed with the words of the Ricky Martin song: “lo que fui, lo que soy, y seré, por mi Isla Bella.” We are very proud of you, Ingrid, and how you represent our Island and Puerto Rican women in Southern California and the world.
During the event our 2025 NACOPRW SoCal Scholarship recipients received their award certificates. Left to right: Scheilla A. Perez Ramos and Silvi Romito.
Friends from House of Puerto Rico, San Diego honored us with their presence. Left to right: Dr. Ana Celia Zentella, Joe Carballo, and Gloria San Miguel.
The evening was further enriched by the presence of 2023 Orgullo Boricua Award recipient and Los Angeles City Attorney, Hydee Feldstein Soto, who honored the occasion by presenting a beautiful City of Los Angeles proclamation in recognition of Ingrid Otero-Smart. Despite her demanding schedule, Hydee took the time to join us in celebration, a gesture for which we are deeply grateful and truly honored. The 2025 Orgullo Boricua Award celebration was a powerful reminder that when Boricua/Latina women lead with purpose, courage, and heart, our impact resonates far beyond our community, across the world.
Special thanks to our Events Committee for creating such a beautiful event. From the decorations to the food, everything looked and tasted amazing. Left to right: Gloria San Miguel, Hildegarde Feliciano, Grissel Benitez-Hodge, Vivian Valdez, Sonia Colón-Lamas, Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Norma Teissier Silva, and Hilda Ovalle. Not present: Dorianne Montalvo. íGracias!
Thank you, Rocio Delgado, who donated a copy of her most recent work “Corazón Boricua” for our opportunity prize.
NACOPRW SoCal women who attended the 2025 Orgullo Boricua Event. Strong, brilliant, and united—women uplifting women while honoring our Boricua pride.
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53RD ANNUAL CONVENTION: LEADING WITH PURPOSE IN PUERTO RICO By Gloria San Miguel
The National Conference of Puerto Rican Women (NACOPRW) held its 53rd Annual Convention from November 7–9, 2025, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, bringing together chapters, members, leaders, advocates, and community members for a weekend of learning, reflection, and connection. Centered on the theme “Leading with Purpose: Building Bridges Across Generations,” the convention took place at the Centro Para Puerto Rico in Río Piedras.
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The convention officially opened on Friday, November 7, at 7:00 p.m. with a warm welcome reception graciously hosted by Esperanza Cyber Charter School. Participants gathered to reconnect and set the tone for a meaningful and engaging convention. Saturday’s program began with breakfast and welcoming remarks from NACOPRW President Amaris Hernández-Padget, who greeted attendees and emphasized the importance of intergenerational leadership and collaboration. The morning sessions opened with timely and impactful discussions, including “From Dependency to Self-Sufficiency: Reclaiming Food Sovereignty in Puerto Rico” and “Building Digital Bridges: Using Social Media to Amplify Voices Across Generations.”
At the Friday night reception we met new friends from other NACOPRW chapters. Upper left, National President, Amaris Hernández-Padget, opening the event. Upper right: Members of the SoCal chapter Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Gloria San Miguel, Sonia Colón-Lamas and Grissel Benitez-Hodge. Lower image: members of NACOPRW chapters. In the first row are sitting the “madrinas” or past National Presidents: Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Amaris Hernández (current President), Lourdes Hernández, and Vilma Colóm.
During lunch, keynote speaker Sara Manzano-Díaz, Commissioner and former Director of the U.S. Women’s Bureau, delivered a powerful and inspiring message, motivating women to dream boldly, lead with confidence, and continue striving for equity and opportunity. The afternoon sessions continued with the viewing of the documentary “Sobrevivimos,” followed by a panel discussion on “Puerto Rico’s Economy: Ensuring Generational Opportunities and Growth.” The day concluded with a thought-provoking session titled “Building Bridges: The Round Trip Between Island and Diaspora,” highlighting the shared responsibility and connection between Puerto Rico and its diaspora communities. The convention culminated with a beautiful Awards Reception, honored by the presence of Puerto Rico’s first female Governor and founder of the Centro Para Puerto Rico, the Honorable Sila M. Calderón. Her participation and message highlighted the significance of women’s leadership and legacy in Puerto Rico. Throughout the convention, participants were deeply engaged, inspired, and enriched by the powerful sessions and meaningful dialogue. The 53rd Annual NACOPRW Convention successfully reinforced the importance of leading with purpose while building strong bridges across generations.
Images from Saturday: interesting panels, and guest speakers made the event memorable. Attendees danced at the sounds of Puerto Rican Bomba, and our Southern California Chapter was honored with the 2025 Chapter of the Year Award. Thank you to all our members who travelled to represent us at the Convention. Also, big thanks to local volunteers Izabella Espinal San Miguel, Layla San Miguel Meléndez and Milagros Fernández Calimano. Also, thanks to Rocio Delgado who presented her new piece “Corazón Boricua” that beautifully decorated the event. The piece was sold and she donated a percentage of the proceeds of the sale to NACOPRW National.
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CHAPTER OF THE YEAR 2025: NACOPRW SOCAL By Gloria San Miguel
Dear NACOPRW SoCal members and collaborators, It is with immense pride and gratitude that I share the wonderful news that our NACOPRW Southern California Chapter was honored with the Chapter of the Year Award at the 2025 National Convention! This recognition is truly special—not because of a title, but because it belongs to each and every one of you.
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Image of the beautiful Chapter of the Year Award given to the Southern California chapter during the 2025 National Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
This award was earned through the dedication of our volunteer members who give their time, talent, and heart to create meaningful events, raise funds, support our mission, and uplift one another. Your commitment has transformed our chapter into more than an organization— it has become a true sisterhood of Boricua women, proudly representing our culture and values while being far from our island home.Together, we have built a community rooted in service, leadership, and love for Puerto Rico and for one another. This honor reflects the passion, resilience, and unity that define us. I am deeply thankful to stand alongside such inspiring women and to serve as your president. Thank you for showing up, for leading with purpose, and for proving that distance from home only strengthens our bond. FELICIDADES Y GRACIAS.
Members of the Southern California Chapter receive the Chapter of the Year award from NACOPRW National President, Amaris HernándezPadget. From left to right: Vincent Hodge, Nilsa J. Thorsos, Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Sonia Colón-Lamas, Amaris Hernández-Padget, Gloria San Miguel, Grissel Benítez-Hodge, Dorianne Montalvo, and Nelson Lamas.
NATIONAL MEETING AND 2026 BOARD INSTALLATION On Sunday, November 9, 2025, the NACOPRW National Annual Membership Meeting was held at the TRYP by Wyndham Isla Verde. This important meeting brought together the NACOPRW chapters to reflect on the year’s accomplishments, discuss organizational matters, and conduct the official swearing-in of the 2026–2027 National Executive Board. We are pleased to announce and present the newly elected 2026–2027 NACOPRW National Executive Board: National President: Lynette Pérez (Philadelphia) National First Vice President: Vilma Colóm (Northern Illinois) National Second Vice President: Deborah López (Chicago) National Treasurer: Maritza Rivera (Philadelphia) National Assistant Treasurer: Damarys Vera (Philadelphia) National Secretary: Gloria San Miguel (Southern California) We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the new National Board as they begin their leadership journey. We also sincerely thank all the candidates who were nominated for their time, dedication, and commitment to this important process. Their willingness to serve reflects the strength and leadership within NACOPRW.
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nacoprw convention 2025: a phenomenal woman: sila m. calderon and the center for puerto rico By Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Ed.D.
On November 8 t h , during the NACOPRW’s annual convention in Puerto Rico this year, we had the privilege to hear from the Honorable Sila María Calderón, former mayor of San Juan, and the first woman governor of Puerto Rico, who served in that post from 2001 to 2004. She presented a moving keynote speech during the evening gala, following the convention sessions that were held that day at the Centro para Puerto Rico: Fundación Sila M. Calderón, which Sila founded in 2008 (501c3). Sila was a successful businesswoman who chose to leave a toxic political scene to pursue her lifelong vocation as a philanthropist and advocate for women, the poor and disenfranchised, and to seek a more equitable society. Her long and remarkable career is reflected not only in the passionate words that she shared with us, but also in the numerous awards that she has been given locally, nationally, and internationally over the years. The Center’s location is near the University of Puerto Rico in Rio Piedras. It has a spectacular entrance, with high ceilings and a large, inscribed plaque on the wall (see photo). This plaque is symbolic of Sila’s vision for raising the status of women in Puerto Rico, especially those who have experienced domestic violence and poverty, and to build and strengthen urban life. The building has an auditorium, classrooms, and a library- all the facilities needed for dialogue, research and education. A special focus of the center is to establish a place where women could attain a business degree and forge ahead into starting their own careers in that field or others, as well. A nearby facility was built to house and support victims of violence and has been a great service to the community. We applaud Sila and are proud to call her un Orgullo Boricua!
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COQUITO MAKING & FUNDRAISER 2025 by Marjorie Patton
Saturday, November 22, 2025
On November 22, members of NACOPRW–SoCal gathered once again to make our traditional Christmas beverage, Coquito. This gathering has become one of the chapter’s most treasured events, both because it brings us together to honor a beloved Puerto Rican tradition and because it fuels our most significant annual scholarship fundraising effort. And of course, we always have a wonderful time working side by side and enjoying each other’s company in the spirit of true Boricua sisterhood. This year’s Coquito Workshop was graciously hosted by our friend and long-time collaborator, Ericka Pérez. Ericka has supported NACOPRW– SoCal for many years, and this time she welcomed the 2025 Committee to a beautiful space in her community in Tustin. A heartfelt thank you to Ericka for making this year’s workshop so special! Even though this event requires monumental effort, including finding and purchasing materials, coordinating workstations, preparing the delicious beverage, and organizing pickups and deliveries, it is, without a doubt, a labor of love. To the committee members who supported us this year, we are deeply grateful for your unwavering dedication. You consistently step up when needed most, contributing not only to the preparation of the Coquito, but equally to ensuring its successful donations and distribution. Lastly, to all the Coquito enthusiasts who support our mission to raise funds for the education of Latina women in Southern California, we extend our sincerest appreciation. Your donations and sponsorships sustain this cherished initiative and allow us to continue empowering young Latina leaders who benefit directly from these efforts. For more information on how to obtain a Coquito bottle (or two) during December please email nacoprwsocal98@gmail.com
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EL RINCóN DEL COQUÍ: NACOPRW SOCAL 2025 DONATION: HOGAR FAMILIA BETHESA ORPHANAGE IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC As part of our ongoing efforts to support charities and other non-profits, this year’s NACOPRW SoCal donation was made in memory of our beloved Doña Minerva to the orphanage that she supported in Santo Domingo for over twenty years. Her daughter and dedicated member, Grissel BenítezHodge, organized this Holiday Gifting effort to collect clothing, school supplies, toiletries, food, and toys for the children this Christmas. The name of the Orphanage is Hogar Familia Bethesda and the director is María Noesi González. In addition to our organization’s donation, individual members donated as well as many of Grissel’s personal friends. The drive was so successful that there were three boxes shipped, each weighing 80 pounds! The director of the orphanage was extremely grateful. The pictures included here are a testament of the happiness that this donation brought to these beautiful children in the Dominican Republic. I think Doña Minerva is smiling from heaven right now.
by Anaida Colón-Muñiz, Ed.D.
Doña Minerva Ruiz Sotomayor supported the Hogar Familia Bethesda for 20 years. Now her daughter, Grissel Benítez-Hodge, continues this beautiful tradition of helping others, especially during the Holidays.
The children of the orphanage Hogar Familia Bethesda in the Dominican Republic smile and pose with their new clothing and presents sent by Grissel.
rincón literario: A PUERTO RICAN CHRISTMAS CAROL BY mARIBEL VÁZQUEZ López by Milly C. Lugo-Rios My curiosity got the best of me when I decided to review this book. It was entertaining, albeit unoriginal and simple. Maribel Vásquez López a.k.a. Lebi P. Nieves Moran was born in PR and is autodidactic in literature. Vázquez López adapted Dickens' A Christmas Carol to a Puerto Rican setting. This short play (34 pages) presents the corrupt politician, Mr. Rivera, as Ebenezer Scrooge. Mr. Rivera has prioritized his career and business over his family. The three ghosts are presented as the Jibaro (Ghost #1), Yal (Ghost #2 – she is wearing the quintessential “doobie” hairdo*) and a man carrying a baby in black clothing (Ghost #3) who brings him to reality, saying “you are not a politician, you are a POLITIQUERO!”. *Doobie (dubi) – you take your hair and wrap it around your head, hold it with hairpins, and when it is unpinned after it dries, the hair will be completely straight. While the theme correlates somewhat with Dickens’ story, the plot is weak. The author states that the play was performed in 2016 (site unknown). Perhaps its performance enhanced the story. My expectations, however, were not met. The most interesting aspect of this play was reading common Puerto Rican sayings. Examples are: Ahora se te pusieron a peseta; You don’t live from the story (no vives del cuento); This son of his mother! (Ese hijo de madre!); and Carifresco! (someone who takes advantage of a situation).
My rating for A Puerto Rican Christmas Carol: 1 of 5 coconuts!
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BOMBA CONNECTION! 2025 In Review
2/8 NACOPRW SoCal Board Retreat 3/23 Board Installation and Member Meeting (virtual) 5/1 Scholarship Committee Process Begins 4/23 Nuestras Voces Newsletter 6/22 Domino Tournament Fundraiser 8/11 Scholarships Awarded to Recipients 8/18 Nuestras Voces Newsletter 9/27 2025 Orgullo Boricua and Scholarship Recognition 10/16 Virtual Board and Member Meeting 10/16 Donation to Hogar Familia Bethesa, D.R. 11/2 NACOPRW SoCal 2026 Board Elections 11/7-9 NACOPRW National Convention - San Juan, PR 11/22 Coquito Workshop Fundraiser 12/21 Nuestras Voces Newsletter 12/28 NACOPRW SoCal Holiday Celebration Looking for something to see during the Holidays? Don’t miss the movie Diario, Mujer & Café. Written and directed by Puerto Rican actress Roselyn Sánchez, it’s a beautiful road trip of best friends (the Tiki Tikis) around Puerto Rico. Through laughter, conflict, and unexpected challenges, their bond is tested and transformed-reminding us that sometimes the trip we didn't plan is the one we need most. This movie is available for purchase or rental in Amazon Prime.
!FELIZ CUMPLEAÑOS SONIA & GRISEL!
Happy birthday to our dear Sonia Colón-Lamas and Grissel Benitez-Hodge, who both celebrate birthdays in December. Thank you both for your constant support to our Chapter.
On behalf of the NACOPRW SoCal Board we wish you Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year 2026. Gloria, Marjorie, Nilsa, Sonia and Marie
Meet our Newsletter Team:
Nilsa J. Thorsos, 2nd VP and Committee Chair
Gloria San Miguel, President, Layout & Contributor
Marjorie Patton, 1st VP and Contributor
Sonia Colón-Lamas, Treasurer and Contributor
Milly C. Lugo-Ríos, Member and Contributor
Anaida Colón Muñiz, Past President and Copy Editor
Dear readers, As we wrap up the Fall and begin the Winter seasons, we are thrilled to share this publication, which highlights the incredible work and achievements of our NACOPRW– SoCal members. There is so much to celebrate! With joyful holiday gatherings ahead and the excitement of 2026 on the horizon, we look forward to a year filled with growth, connection, and new opportunities for our chapter. Stay tuned, exciting events and meaningful activities await us in the new year!
Nilsa