NUESTRAS VOCES_2026_09 FINAL

NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF PUERTO RICAN WOMEN-SoCal

NUESTRAS VOCES PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE AND RIGHTS THROUGH MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

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 ANAIDA COLON-MUÑIZ, Ed.D. 1ST VICE PRESIDENT 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: Anaida Colón-Muñiz & Milly C. Lugo-Ríos

Dear Members, Welcome to September and to the second issue of the fifth year of publication of Nuestras Voces! As we approach the fall season. we find that this issue is filled with exciting news and articles that remind us of how proud we are of our legacy as an organization—one that uplifts our heritage and numerous contributions while also recognizing and addressing the hardships we must navigate as a people.

We begin by welcoming our newest member, Dr. Olivia Gallardo, who has hit the ground running as she pitches in to participate in various committees and events. We also celebrate the success of the July presentation led by President Gloria San Miguel, Dr. Marie Nubia Feliciano, and Dr. Nilsa Thorsos at the Irvine Multicultural Association, “Exploring the World: Puerto Rico — An Island Small in Size but Giant in Influence.” A Southern California audience of 60 attendees learned about our heritage, history, food, and culture. ¡Kudos!

We are happy to announce this year’s long-awaited scholarship winners, whom you will get to meet at the September 13th Orgullo Boricua Award Event. At the Event, we will also celebrate the illustrious Dr. Ana Celia Zentella, Professor Emerita, University of California, San Diego. We hope to see you at this event, where you can hear her powerful talk about language and culture, meet old and new friends, take part in the silent auction and win exciting opportunity prizes. You can also enjoy our special Boricua Caribbean fare! Speaking of food, El Fogón Boricua shows how to celebrate the culinary art of making La Mallorca Puertorriqueña, so don’t miss it in this issue.

The next segment, Cuando Vives en Puerto Rico…, sheds light on current Boricua hardships related to both the unreliable electric grid and recurring droughts. Both issues are serious concerns, and we must stay well informed for the sake of our families and friends on the Island.

On a lighter note, the article “Tradiciones de Puerto Rico: The Art and Legacy of Mundillo Lace” shares fascinating history about our ancestral tradition of making beautiful Mundillo lace, a national treasure that must be preserved. El Rincón del Coquí brings important announcements about our chapter’s upcoming election cycle, as well as the national convention, which will be held November 6-8, 2026 in Puerto Rico.

Our beloved Rincon Literario reviews a new and highly recommended book, Urban Folk Tales by Y. Rodríguez, which earned a 5 coconuts rating! Interesting new podcasts are announced in Nuestras Voces Spotlight. While in Bomba Connection, we are reminded of several upcoming events and opportunities that may be of interest to you. For example, how you can support our national convention by purchasing a jewel to honor a family member or friend.

Enjoy this issue and stay connected!

Anaida and Milly

For more information about our chapter, membership or donations visit us at:

www.nacoprwsocal.org

Mark Your Calendars!

2026 Orgullo Boricua Award & Scholarhip Recognition Sunday, September 13, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm At the Norman P. Murray Community Center PAGE 1

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: OLIVIA GALLARDO

By Sonia Colón-Lamas, Treasurer

Celebrating Education, diversity and Community Leadership, the SoCal Chapter, is proud and honored to welcome Dr. Olivia Michel Gallardo as our newest member.

A graduate of the University of San Francisco, Dr. Gallardo earned her degree in multicultural education and children’s literature. She dedicated 25 years to California’s edification as a bilingual educator.

Her passion and dedication continued at the university level, where she taught at the Department of Teacher Education, California State University in East Bay California for another 15 years. To date she continues her commitment to our community, through parent leadership programs, conducting workshops for parents in both Spanish and English.

Olivia joined our chapter this year and has actively participating in several committees. Thank you for joining NACOPRW SoCal!

Of Mexican heritage, Dr. Gallardo brings to us, a rich multicultural perspective. Her dedication to serving families and creating opportunities for others, exemplifies the leadership and service that NACOPRW SoCal strives to promote. We are thrilled to have the knowledge, experience and kind heart she brings to our organization.

Please join us in giving Dr. Olivia Michel Gallardo our sincerest warm welcome.

EXPLORING THE WORLD: PUERTO RICO AN ISLAND SMALL IN SIZE BUT GIANT IN INFLUENCE

By Gloria San Miguel, President On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, NACOPRW SoCal had the honor of presenting “Exploring the World: Puerto Rico — An Island Small in Size but Giant in Influence,” hosted by the Irvine Multicultural Association.

More than 60 attendees joined us for a colorful journey through Puerto Rico’s history, culture, traditions, and remarkable influence. Presenters Dr. Marie Nubia Feliciano, Dr. Nilsa J. Thorsos, and Gloria San Miguel explored the beautiful blend of Taíno, Spanish, African, and American influences that have helped shape Puerto Rican life—from our food, language, music, and dance to our celebrations, politics, natural beauty, and cultural identity.

The presentation also highlighted notable Puerto Ricans whose accomplishments have made an impact far beyond the Island, as well as Puerto Rico’s unique wildlife and natural treasures. To add a taste of Puerto Rico to the experience, guests were treated to traditional mezcla sandwiches and polvorones cookies, allowing everyone to enjoy a little flavor of the Island. Special thanks to our members Dorianne Montalvo, Lizy Alvarado, and Camille Dexter, who were there early to help set up and support the presenters.

Upper left: members Dorianne Montalvo and Lizy Alvarado ready to help, Upper right: Maximina Marin from IMA, Dr. Nilsa J. Thorsos and SoCal President Gloria San Miguel. Left: participants enjoying mezcla sandwiches and polvorones.

The event concluded on a joyful note with an interactive singing activity, as participants joined together in singing the traditional “La Bomba,” bringing Puerto Rican music, rhythm, and community spirit to life.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Irvine Multicultural Association for the invitation and for its commitment to educating the community about world cultures. Special thanks to Carla Deville and Maximina Marin for their guidance and warm hospitality. Through cultural exchange, we are reminded that we have far more similarities than differences.

Above: Richie Roberts, resident of Irvine, brought his two granddaughters to learn about Puerto Rico. To the right: SoCal President Gloria San Miguel, Dr. Marie Nubia Feliciano, member Camille Dexter and her sister, with Dr. Nilsa J. Thorsos

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

2026 NACOPRW SOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND THE WINNERS ARE...

CELEBRATING THE 2026 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE

By Gloria San Miguel, President

The NACOPRW SoCal 2025 Scholarship Committee has once again gone above and beyond to make our annual scholarship program a success. This year’s selection committee - chaired by Dr. Marie Nubia Feliciano, was joined by members Dr. Olivia Gallardo, Mercedes Julian, Milly Lugo-Perez, Dr. Nilsa Thorsos, Nilsita Smith, and Marjorie Patton - all who devoted countless hours to reviewing applications, carefully reading each essay, and conducting interviews with our talented applicants.

Their dedication, insight, and compassion ensured that our scholarship awards truly reflect the values and mission of NACOPRW SoCal: “Preserving our Heritage and Rights through Mentorship and Leadership for a Better Tomorrow.” By investing their time and expertise, they have helped to open doors for the next generation of leaders and changemakers in our community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to each committee member for their commitment, professionalism, and passion for empowering others. Your work is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart.

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EL FOGÓN

VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

BORICUA

La Mallorca Puertorriqueña

By Dr. Nilsa J. Thorsos

One of my family’s most cherished traditions in Puerto Rico was stopping at the neighborhood panadería for breakfast. There was something special about those mornings—the familiar warmth of the bakery, the sound of conversations all around us, and, most of all, that unforgettable aroma of freshly baked pan sobao filling the air.

Our favorite panadería in San Juan is La Panadería El Hipopótamo. Like many Puerto Rican families, we made breakfast at the panadería part of our Island experience. In our family, one of our favorite traditions was stopping there on our way to the airport to pick up relatives. Somehow, that simple stop always felt like more than just breakfast—it was a moment to reconnect, slow down, and enjoy being together.

We would usually order mallorcas con café, and those warm, soft pastries dusted with powdered sugar paired perfectly with a cup of Puerto Rican coffee. There is something about that combination that brings back the feeling of being home—the flavors, the conversations, the laughter, and the anticipation of spending time with family. Ahh, that aroma of pan sobao! Even today, it can take me right back to those mornings in San Juan.

These are the memories I treasure most from our visits to the Island. The mallorcas, the coffee, the panadería, and, most importantly, the time spent with family have become a delicious and deeply meaningful part of our Puerto Rican story.

Ingredients 1 pkg dry yeast 1/2 cup lukewarm milk 1 1/2 cup water 8 egg yolks 3/4 cup white sugar

3 sticks butter 6 1/2 cups bread flour 1 teaspoon salt powdered sugar

Instructions: 1.Use a stand mixer; combine eggs, sugar, and melted butter, whisk until well combined. In another large bowl, pour in the milk and water, sprinkle in the yeast, and let sit for a minute.

2.Add yeast mixture to egg mixture and whisk until well combined. In a large bowl, whisk together salt and flour.

3.Add flour mixture to the egg mixture one cup at a time, using a dough hook attachment. Mix until dough just comes together. Turn out onto a floured work surface and knead until tacky.

4.Be patient…..Transfer to a bowl and cover with a kitchen cloth and let rise on the counter for 2 hours or until it doubles in size. The dough can also be refrigerated and rise overnight.

5.Line two light aluminum sheet pans with parchment paper. NOTE: Do not use dark sheet pans because they will over-brown the bottom of the rolls.) Generously flour a clean work surface, turn dough out on a work surface, and sprinkle with flour. Tear the dough into 12 even pieces.

Roll the dough pieces into 1/2-inch ropes. Shape the ropes into coiled buns, tucking the end under the bun.

6.Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

7.NOTE: Be patient! Place 6 rolls per sheet pan, loosely cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise another 45 minutes. Using a pastry brush, gently brush rolls with melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until they are just beginning to brown.

8.Allow buns to cool, then sift generously with powdered sugar. Enjoy with coffee!

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

CUANDO VIVES EN PUERTO RICO: HARDSHIP WITH INSECURE ELECTRIC GRID AND DROUGHT

By Dr. Anaida Colón Muñiz

It seems like every day we hear about another natural or manmade problem in our beloved Puerto Rico. Through news coverage, social media, and especially through our friends and families, we learn about the suffering Puerto Ricans are navigating everyday just to live a somewhat normal life. My sister Rosa, who lives in Bayamón said that while living in Puerto Rico, you have to always be ready for the worst, “Cuando tu vives en Puerto Rico siempre tienes que estar listo para lo peor. Aquí siempre pasa algo. Este año no hay huracanes, pero hay sequía.” If it’s not the lack of water, it’s the interrupted electrical service. According to U.S. Energy Information Administration, “In 2025, customers in Puerto Rico experienced an average of 36 hours of power interruptions that were not caused by major events such as hurricanes, 19% more than in 2024.” 1

The Electric Grid Since before Hurricane María, Puerto Rico had been subjected to an aging electrical grid and weak infrastructure. Delays in federal aid post Maria have left many resources unspent, slowing recovery efforts. And economic restrictions placed on the Island by the Promesa Act (to restructure the Island’s debt) only made things worse. 2 Once one devastating hurricane hit after another, attempts to reestablish the grid resulted in dismantling the existing Puerto Rican system and privatizing with companies that have yet been unable to successfully rebuild the electrical grid. The Island has interrupted service especially in times of high demand. Protests against LUMA, the current energy provider, as well as against the government have not been effective in attaining the changes needed. Some areas can only count on a few hours of service a day. Locals with economic means have resorted to buying home generators while others limit buying grocery items that need refrigeration. Many depend heavily on businesses that own large generators for their food and air conditioning, just to make it through the week. We don’t know if and when positive changes will be brought about that can effectively address these issues. A recent study conducted by researchers at Polytechnic University in Puerto Rico, analyzed challenges in the systems and operations that affect the Island's energy strength. They recommend that, “Immediate actions should focus on grid upgrades, expansion of distributed generation, adoption of smart technologies, and strengthening cybersecurity. Furthermore, consistency in public policies and transparent regulatory oversight will be key to achieving energy transition goals.” 3

The Drought While many Puerto Ricans are thankful for no hurricanes this summer, our tropical island of Puerto Rico is also suffering what some consider unimaginable, a drought! Despite this interpretation, “Drought is a normal climate pattern that has occurred in varying degrees of length, severity, and size throughout history.” 4 Yet, according to CBS news, “July was the driest month on record for San Juan in more than 120 years – since 1899 – with just 0.54 inches of rain”. El Niño and La Niña conditions have become more intense with climate change, affecting the weather conditions worldwide. “Sahara days” are not unusual in Puerto Rico, as trade winds are known to lift and carry desert sand all the way to the Caribbean and Latin America. A 2024 study made this connection, “This study finds that days with the most prominent extensions of Saharan dust toward the Caribbean were also less favorable for thunderstorm activity over the Atlantic Ocean and resulted in island-wide below-average rainfall in Puerto Rico.” 5 Sahara Desert sands have been so dense this year that they have blocked the moisture that normally promotes rain. 6 High temperatures have been intense, leading to extremely concerning levels, especially for vulnerable communities that can’t access air conditioning or even a fan because of the power grid. This condition has exacerbated the dire conditions under which many of our friends and family have to live.

Hotels and other resorts for tourists typically accommodate them because they secure the resources to provide water and electricity. Also, more households have cisterns or buy and save water for emergencies, but especially for those with limited economic mobility, our hearts go out to them as they bravely endure these hardships. According to AccuWeather “Better coordination between the utility companies that supply the archipelago’s drinking water, the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, the National Weather Service, the island’s municipalities, the agricultural sector, universities, and community organizations could also help improve water use.” 7 Rain will return, but scientific research and wiser policies can lead to a more resilient infrastructure overall for Puerto Rico!

Protesters line up to demonstrate against LUMA Energy, which operates Puerto Rico’s electric grid. The next two years will determine whether the island advances toward a resilient, decentralized energy system or remains stuck in a cycle of outages and fiscal instability, writes Puerto Rico Energy Bureau Chair Edison Avilés. Angel Valentin/Getty Images via Getty Images

A fish carcass lies on the receded shoreline of the Carraizo reservoir amid an ongoing drought in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026. (Photo Credit: AP Photo/Alejandro Granadillo)

1. See U.S. Energy Information Administration, August 10, 2026. https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=67926 2. Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA; P.L. 114-187) efforts to restructure Puerto Rico's public debts. https://www.everycrsreport.com/reports/IF12913.html 3. See Inefficiencies and Vulnerabilities of the Puerto Rico Electrical Power Systems by Luis Noé Alicea Rodríguez Advisor: Héctor J. Cruzado PhD, PE Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico. https://prcr.cobimet.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/160d85f3-49b6-47c8-a16f-1f9df1e7a18a/content 4.See Drought.gov. National Integrated Drought Information System https://www.drought.gov/states/puerto-rico 5. AGU.. The Relationship Between the Saharan Air Layer, Convective Environmental Conditions, and Precipitation in Puerto Rico. https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1029/2023JD039681 6. The Climate Program Office. Increased Drought Risk in Puerto Rico Correlates to Saharan Dust Plumes. https://cpo.noaa.gov/increased-drought-risk-in-puerto-rico-correlates-to-saharan-dust-plumes/ 7. See AccuWeather. What you need to know about the water crisis in Puerto Rico. Aug 18, 2026. https://www.accuweather.com/en/climate/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-water-crisis-in-puerto-rico/1924264

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

TRADICIONES DE PUERTO RICO: THE ART AND LEGACY OF MUNDILLO LACE

By Dr. Anaida Colón-Muñiz

Perhaps you have come across a blouse adorned with Mundillo lace, or perhaps you have family who made Mundillo, and wondered about how this tradition came to be? Brought primarily by Europeans to Puerto Rico and the fusion of local talent, creativity, and resources, Mundillo is a form of bobbin lace (encaje de bolillo) 1 that developed during the 19 th and mid-20 th centuries in Borinquen. It is still available to some degree on the Island, but variations are still found in communities around Europe, where bobbin lace originated much earlier in history (16 th -17 th centuries).

A fascinating article on the history of Mundillo was written by Boricua scholar Ellen Fernández-Sacco (2009). According to FernandezSacco it is a “…creative endeavor conceived of and expressed through a network of threads manipulated with bobbins and pins over a geometric pattern wrapped on a pillow.” 2 The word Mundillo itself refers to the small pillow (telar) used in making the lace. The bobbin is a pencil like tool that holds the thread to make the lace designs. The first lace made in Puerto Rico was a variety of torchon lace, and it was considered of inferior quality, but then developed with time into exportable quality. Fernandez-Sacco explains that the “documented use of the lap box or telar goes back to the 1880s, and some hypothesize that it is an innovation developed in Moca, perhaps the result of Spanish and French migration to western Puerto Rico.

Early on, Puerto Ricans were creative in how they replicated the tools and materials using local resources as well as imported ones.

Designs were enhanced by calado (defined as drawn work), smocking (gathering fabric to create an elastic effect}, and bordado (embroidery). Included in the patterns and styles, were Alencon, Valenciennes, Chantilly, Honiton, Milanese, and Ret-fi Català 3 . Mundillo is now highly sought out by collectors due to its original and intricate designs.

According to PR Day Trips 4 “[Mundillo] is an old craft…[that] became the very popular as ornamentation on clothing – for those who could afford it – because only certain artisans could do it”. Fernandez-Sacco (2009) explains that, while highly sought by higher classes, it was a cottage industry (work mainly done at home) supplementing the income of poor Puerto Rican families until the mid1900s. It was painstaking work that took many hours to complete the smallest amount. Even children made lace in-between school and other chores to help their families. The pay was extremely low, with women and children earning just pennies for a yard of three-inch wide lace taking about 100 hours, or 3 hours per inch. While awfully limited, these funds helped families in an economy that had scarce opportunities, especially for women.

Because fewer people today know how to make Mundillo, and it is becoming a vanishing craft, the Museo del Mundillo de Puerto Rico (or Bobbin Lace Museum) in Moca preserves this beautiful art and promotes it with demonstrations, classes, and social media, which are helping it to grow in interest within and outside the Island. 5 PR Day Trips company offers tours and information also helping revive this craft. The Museo del Mundillo opened in 2004 by artisan, historian, and dedicated founder Benito “Mocay” Hernández Vale, who runs and promotes it. There is no charge for admission to the museum, but donations are welcomed to keep it viable. It is open daily from 8am to 12 noon but closed on the weekends. The museum showcases all sorts of lace samples, bobbins, patterns, and furniture used for weaving. So, on your next trip to Puerto Rico, be sure to visit Moca and the Museo del Mundillo, learn about this legacy, and contribute what you can to keep this legacy alive! Call 787-877-3815 or email at museomoca@museodelmundillo.org for information. It is located at 237 Calle José Celso Barbosa, downtown Moca, in a small house on the corner. Parking is nearby or behind the Museo.

Weaving Mundillo.

Credits Diana P. Martinez

Different varieties of mundillo lace

2015 Miss Puerto Rico wearing a Mundillo lace dress

Museo del Mundillo, Moca has free admission. It is dedicated to preserving this craft

References: 1. Las palilleras y el encaje de bolillos https://youtu.be/UOPeyl40Kws?si=5HFicrH5QO6nIbfZ 2. See Ellen Fernández-Sacco, “Mundillo and Identity: The Revival and Transformation of Handmade Lace in Puerto Rico,” in Women and the Material Culture of Needlework and Textiles, 1750–1950 (Farnham: Ashgate, 2009), 3. See Diana P. Martínez Rodríguez. The Making of Mundillo The bobbin lace tradition of Puerto Rico (Feb 13, 2023). https://pieceworkmagazine.com/the-making-of-mundillo/ 4. See Gwenn. Discover the Beauty of Bobbin Lace in Moca, (n.d.) https://www.puertoricodaytrips.com/moca-bobbin-lace/ 5. Al Corazón del Mundillo. Rigoberto Figueroa Figueroa Foundation. https://fundacionrff.org/museo-mundillo/

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

2026 NACOPRW SOCAL’S ORGULLO BORICUA AWARD: DR. ANA CELIA ZENTELLA

Join us for an inspirational afternoon as we honor an exceptional SoCal Puerto Rican leader

Dr. Ana Celia Zentella with 2026 NACOPRW SoCal’s Orgullo Boricua Award Norman P. Murray Community Center at 24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo, CA 92692.

During this event we will also be presenting

University Scholarship Winners Whether you are a longtime NACOPRW SoCal member or new to our community, this is the perfect opportunity to connect, get inspired by this remarkable Boricua woman, and learn more about our mission to support and empower Puerto Rican and Latina women and their allies in Southern California. During the event we hope to learn more about each other and our own experiences with our language and culture.

Mark your calendars and join us to honor excellence, build community, and celebrate our Boricua pride together.

Feel free to invite bring a friend or two, we would love to meet them!

Boricua Caribbean Fare served, Dress Code: Business Casual To register and pay for the event go to: https://www.punchbowl.com/parties/bd342d2c998a4aa023ba Payment with RSVP:$45. Click on "Contribute" button on invitation or website. Option to use Zelle - Treasurer: sonialamas12@outlook.com.

Dr. Zentella’s new book is coming soon. To pre-order go to: Language, Identity and Justice: The Anthropolitical Worlds of Ana Celia Zentella

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

EL RINCóN DEL COQUÍ: NACOPRW SOCAL ELECTIONS - OCTOBER 2026

By Gloria San Miguel, President

Summary of Officer Responsibilities

It’s that exciting time of year again — NACOPRW SoCal Chapter’s elections are just around the corner! This October, we will be electing our next group of passionate leaders to guide our chapter into another year of growth, advocacy, and sisterhood.

Serving on the Board is not only an honor but also a unique opportunity to shape the future of our chapter. Whether you have years of leadership experience or are simply ready to take your first step into a leadership role, your voice, ideas, and energy are needed!

Our chapter thrives on collaboration. Tasks and committees are well-organized, responsibilities are shared, and our leadership team works together in a supportive and fun environment. It is a space where creativity flourishes, friendships are built, and every contribution makes a meaningful difference towards our mission.

We encourage you to nominate yourself or a fellow member for a leadership position. If you are nominating someone else, please be sure to confirm with them first to ensure they are ready and excited to serve. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at nacoprwsocal98@gmail.com.

This is your moment to be part of something bigger — to preserve our heritage, promote our rights, and empower women in our community. Let’s continue building a chapter that uplifts and inspires! Nomination details and position descriptions will be shared soon. In the meantime, start thinking about how you — or someone you know — can bring your unique talents to the table. Our chapter needs you!

2026 NACOPRW NATIONAL CONVENTION The National Conference of Puerto Rican Women (NACOPRW) is thrilled to announce our 54th Annual Convention, taking place November 6–8, 2026 in beautiful San Juan, Puerto Rico.

This year’s theme, “Together We Are The Legacy of Puerto Rican Leadership, Advocacy, & Cultural Power,” celebrates the power of Puerto Rican women to unite, inspire, and lead—across time, geography, and culture.

DATE: November 6-8, 2026 LOCATION: Condado Palm Inn Hotel, 55 Condado Ave., San Juan This dynamic gathering will bring together women from the Island and the diaspora for professional development, cultural workshops, and community advocacy. It is also a great opportunity to connect with members from all NACOPRW chapters and create stronger bonds with our organization. We invite you to be part of an experience that strengthens our leadership, honors our heritage, and builds lasting bonds across generations.

To register and more information about the convention go to www.nacoprw.org or QR code below. Scroll down to the Convention 2026 section for information, prices and registration.

When Puerto Rican women lead with purpose, we change the world!

See you in San Juan!

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

RINCÓN LITERARIO: URBAN FOLK TALES BY Y. RODRIGUEZ

By Milly C. Lugo Ríos WOW!! An unusual way to begin a book review, but the short stories in Urban Folk Tales really blew me away (in a good way, of course!) I don’t usually read short stories, but each story in this book encapsulate the lives, loves, tragedy, joy, and quest for survival of immigrants in New York city…and they were fantastic!.

Y. Rodriguez was born in Manhattan to Puerto Rican parents. She is a playwright whose plays have been produced Off-Broadway. Her writing style is at times poetic and other times basically mundane. In Urban Folk Tales, she is able to nimbly project feelings of hope, redemption, prejudice, and suffering through each character in the stories. Y. Rodriguez writes that her stories are “based on real people, places, and incidents” that she encountered. She uses magical realism to give meaning to the message in the story, such as in the story of “The Erasable Man”, where racism is noted. Why does a black Puerto Rican meet discrimination and not a white Puerto Rican? In “The Manicurist”, she makes reference to the tragic fire of a nightclub that occurred in the 1990s. The fire was at the “Happy Land Social Club” where 87 Latinos died. Y. Rodriguez’ stories are full of likeable and unique characters like David “El Caballo”, (‘Laura and the Kickboxer’), and the tragedy of Dr. Wu (‘Waiting for Dr. Wu’).

I was “literally blown away” by each story. This is a book that should be read slowly- a couple of stories at a time. Each story deserves a moment of deep reflection.

(5 coconuts out of 5)

Must Read!

NUESTRAS VOCES’ PODCAST SPOTLIGHT The Incomplete Worldcon Podcast

Featuring NACOPRW SoCal Member Isabel Schetcher We are excited to spotlight NACOPRW SoCal member Isabel Schetcher, host of The Incomplete Worldcon Podcast, created for science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts and fans of conventions and fandom culture.

Through the podcast, Isabel explores the world of science fiction and fantasy with a special interest in Latinx and Puerto Rican voices, authors, stories, and perspectives. Her episodes provide another avenue for discovering the growing presence and influence of Puerto Rican creators within these imaginative genres. Tune in and explore!

The Incomplete Worldcon Podcast is now available on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Pocket Casts. And listeners can enjoy episodes directly through the podcast's Riverside website.

Frecuencia Narrativa: Cultural Stories (podcast) & Oldies en Español (radio music show) Featuring NACOPRW SoCal collaborator Tanya Zabalegui

We are pleased to spotlight Tanya Zabalegui, creator and host of two Spanish-language programs broadcast on KUCI 88.9 FM, the public radio station of the University of California, Irvine.

Frecuencia Narrativa: Cultural Stories is a California-based cultural project showcasing authors, artists, and creatives from Latin America and Spain. Through engaging conversations and stories, the program opens a window into the rich cultures and experiences of the Spanish-speaking world. It airs Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. PT on KUCI 88.9 FM and is available afterward on podcast platforms.

Tanya is also the creator and producer of Oldies en Español, on the air since 2024. The program celebrates Spanish-language music from yesterday, today, and tomorrow, combining music with anecdotes, memories, and stories that connect generations. It airs Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. PT. Listen & Connect: KUCI 88.9 FM • Spotify • FrecuenciaNarrativa.com • Oldies en Español on Facebook

Congratulations, Isabel and Tanya on your exciting and creative endeavors. Your voices and talent amplify Puerto Rican and Latinx perspectives, celebrate our culture, music, and storytelling, and create meaningful connections in the community!

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VOL 5, ISSUE 2, SEPTEMBER 2026

BOMBA CONNECTION! Mark your Calendars Saturday, September 11, 2026 - From Distance to Influence, Hosted by NACOPRW National in Washington, D.C. Sunday, September 13, 2026 - Orgullo Boricua Award and Scholarship Recognition, Mission Viejo, CA October 2026 - Chapter and National Elections Sunday, October 11, 2026 - De Mujer a Mujercita Mom and Teen Mentorship event, OCCTAC, Santa Ana, CA November 6-8, 2026 - NACOPRW National Convention, San Juan, Puerto Rico Saturday, November 2026 - Annual Coquito Workshop

Friday, September 11, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. ET | Washington, D.C. The Puerto Rican diaspora has a powerful opportunity to turn its collective voice into meaningful action for Puerto Rico’s future.

NACOPRW, ALPFA, and UnidosUS are bringing together professionals, community leaders, advocates, and changemakers in Washington, D.C. for an evening of networking, meaningful dialogue, and collaboration.

The event will explore how the diaspora can strengthen its connection with Puerto Rico, elevate Puerto Rican voices, support sustainable solutions, and transform distance into influence and lasting impact. If you live in the Washington, D.C. area, or know someone who would benefit from this important conversation, spread the word and join us!

Register today at www.nacoprw.org Celebrate a Special Woman — Donate a Jewel!

Donate a jewel for yourself or dedicate one to a special woman in your life while supporting NACOPRW National initiatives and our 2026 National Convention. Your name and jewel dedication will be proudly featured on the NACOPRW website beginning November 6, 2026, and recognized in the program of our National Convention, November 6–8, 2026, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. To dedicate a jewel, visit nacoprw.org and select DONATE A JEWEL from the National Convention page, or simply scan the QR code to the left.

Honor her. Celebrate her. Support our mission!

Meet our Newsletter Team:

Nilsa J. Thorsos, 2nd VP, Committee Chair, & Contributor

Anaida Colón Muñiz, 1st Vice-President, Copy Editor & Contributor

Gloria San Miguel, President, Layout & Contributor

Sonia Colón-Lamas, Treasurer and Contributor

Marjorie Patton, Member and Contributor

This publication summarizes the recent activities of NACOPRW-SOCAL, showcasing our members' achievements. As we approach the Fall and Winter months, we are excited about the upcoming elections and our National Convention in Puerto Rico this November 2026. We encourage everyone to stay tuned for future events and activities.

Milly C. Lugo-Ríos, Member and Contributor

Nilsa