FEAT: COMEDIAN MIKE RITA, CHEF JOEMAC, WRITER DEVIN MEIRELES AND MUCH MORE
It has been with hard work, integrity and dedication that PFSA has served the community for over one hundred years, and it is an example of what being Portuguese Proud and honored to serve is all about.
PAMA was founded on the same principles, to serve our community as a voice and much more for the needs of Luso Americans, and their descendants,to spread our culture, our language and our "orgulho"Those who are proud of their heritage, but may have felt disconnected, perhaps because they no longer speak the language, or there may not be a medium to connect them.
We work hard every day to serve as their bridge. We have more than a team, we have a family that is dedicated to helping our community grow. It is an honor and a privilege to have this partnership with PFSA.
a photographer based in Toronto My roots trace back to Portugal, adding a touch of cultural richness to my work I’ve immersed myself in various genres of photography, specializing in lifestyle, contemporary, and fine art, with a specific love for black and white.
Ever since my teenage years, I’ve been in a journey, continuously pushing myself to explore the depths of my passion That journey led me to Canada, where I embraced the opportunity to further develop my skills and unleash my artistic talent. I’ve dedicated myself to capturing those precious, oneof-a-kind moments and transforming them into lasting memories
Through a lifestyle photography approach, my goal is to create an unforgettable experience
Playing with light and shadows, shapes and lines, textures and contrasts it’s all part of the magic I bring to my craft I’m captivated by the elegance of minimalism and the architectural uniqueness that surrounds us. By blending these elements, I strive to create visually exquisite results that leave a lasting impact
I’m thrilled to have had the honor of seeing my photography featured in both local and international magazines From full editorials to covers, it’s been an incredible journey so far
As a photographer with a deep longing for art, I have grown and evolved into an art director and creator This transformation reflects my heartfelt desire to pursue my artistic passions. Over the past three years, I have worked diligently to establish three distinct photography brands Through these I have discovered boundless opportunities to express my unique vision and ignite my creativity
Now, as an creative director, I use my expertise to explore and embrace the art of photography and videography
My aim is to create not just images but unforgettable experiences that evoke emotions and tell compelling stories As I look to the future, I am excited to continue embracing my role as an art director and photographer, pushing the boundaries of my craft and capturing the essence of beauty in its purest form
THE INSPIRATION
I truly connected with our stories and cultural heritage in a way that inspired me artistically.”
The idea for this project began when I was photographing the celebrations of 70th Years of Portuguese Immigration in Canada, held in Toronto It was during a conversation with Carina Neto, who was performing with Rancho da Nazaré de Toronto, that I was deeply moved by the richness of these events and inspired by the people who attended.
Growing up in Portugal, I was surrounded by our rich cultural traditions However, it was during these celebrations that I truly connected with our stories and cultural heritage in a way that inspired me artistically As a creative director and photographer, I feel a profound inspiration to bring new audience attention to our cultural heritage.
The stories of the people, who have preserved their traditions through generations, made me realize the importance of keeping our cultural practices alive Their strength and resilience in the face of adversity, and their dedication to preserving their heritage, inspired me to create something that honors their legacy
This project is my way of honoring the past while making it relevant for today’s audience. I believe that it is crucial for new artists to reinterpret and keep our traditions alive in their unique ways By blending traditional elements with contemporary fashion and storytelling, I aim to create a dialogue between the past and the present, showing that our heritage is not just a history of the past but a living, breathing part of our identity
Working on this project has been a journey of self-discovery and reconnection with my roots. It has made me appreciate the depth and richness of our cultural practices and the importance of preserving them for future generations. Through this project, I have experienced a deeper personal and transformative connection with the community
RANCHO FOLCLÓRICO DA NAZARÉ DE TORONTO
Founded in 1959 by a group of recent immigrants, Rancho Folclórico da Nazaré de Toronto began as a gathering of friends who played traditional songs from Nazaré, Portugal. The group soon evolved into a formal dance folklore group dedicated to celebrating and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Nazaré with the wider Portuguese community. In its early years, the group had few dancers and rehearsed wherever they could- a church basement, St. Christopher House, New Canadian Club and First Portuguese Canadian Cultural Centre. In the 1960s and for several decades, they would be a major part of the Nazaré Club on Dundas St. They would also spend time at the Portuguese Cultural Centre of Mississauga in the 1990s. In more recent decades the rancho has found a home to rehearse in various other places throughout the GTA. Despite facing a few recent challenges, including a transition in leadership after the pandemic, today the Rancho has grown into a vibrant group of over 25 dance members. Their mission is to celebrate and promote Portuguese culture by preserving traditional folklore and educating the broader community, all while fostering new connections along the way.
Over the years, Rancho Folclórico da Nazaré de Toronto has achieved remarkable milestones, from performing at the 1976 Montreal Summer Olympics to appearing in Nelly Furtado's music video "Powerless". The group has also performed at various local festivals as well as a Grey Cup halftime show. Notably, they won first place in 1964 at a folklore competition held at the O’Keefe Centre in Toronto, where over 100 countries participated. As the oldest Portuguese folk dance group in Canada, Rancho Folclórico da Nazaré proudly marked its 65th anniversary in 2024, and is proud padrinhos (godparents/sponsors) to numerous other folklore groups in the community.
The Rancho's traditions are deeply rooted in the coastal life of Nazaré where the women wear the famous seven skirts. The dancers perform barefoot to reflect the lives of Nazaré's fishermen and their families who would dance barefoot on the beach. Looking forward, the group's aspirations include growing their social media presence and touring Portugal and North America to continue sharing the beauty of Nazaré's folklore with new audiences.
CARINA NETO
C A R I N A
Carina Neto, a daughter of proud Portuguese immigrants, was born in Canada but has always identified with her Portuguese roots. When asked where she’s from, her answer is always, "Portugal." Carina began dancing in folklore groups at the age of six, and since then, has been part of three different folklore groups, each a testament to her deep pride in her heritage. Her journey with Rancho Folclórico da Nazaré de Toronto began in 2013. Despite a brief break, she has been an active and contributing member for the past two years.
In addition to being a dedicated dancer, Carina plays a vital role in shaping the group’s public online presence. Assisting the president, Diane Cabral, with social media engagement, content creation, growing brand awareness, and strengthening public relations alongside Melissa Capitão, a fellow dancer and media team contributor. Together, they strive to ensure that Rancho Folclórico da Nazaré remains connected with the community and beyond.
Carina is particularly proud of her recent collaboration with Ricardo Araujo, photographer for TO Photography, where she represented the women of Nazaré by modelling in a stunning editorial photoshoot that grew great attraction and reached magazines in France and now PAMA magazine in America!
FADO - A TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE MUSIC GENRE KNOWN FOR ITS EXPRESSIVE AND MELANCHOLIC STYLE
RANCHO- A LIVELY PORTUGUESE FOLK DANCE PERFORMED IN GROUPS, OFTEN DURING FESTIVALS
TRAJE - TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE ATTIRE, OFTEN ELABORATE AND SPECIFIC TO DIFFERENT REGIONS
VIANA - REFERS TO VIANA DO CASTELO, KNOWN FOR ITS RICH FOLKLORE AND ELABORATE TRADITIONAL COSTUMES
GALO DE BARCELOS - A ROOSTER SYMBOL IN PORTUGUESE FOLKLORE, REPRESENTING HONESTY AND GOOD LUCK.
AZULEJOS - DECORATIVE CERAMIC TILES OFTEN USED IN PORTUGUESE ARCHITECTURE, FEATURING INTRICATE DESIGNS.
FESTAS - TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE FESTIVALS CELEBRATING RELIGIOUS OR CULTURAL EVENTS.
CHAMARRITA - A FOLK DANCE FROM THE AZORES, CHARACTERIZED BY ITS LIVELY RHYTHM. ROMARIASRELIGIOUS PILGRIMAGES OFTEN ACCOMPANIED BY FESTIVALS AND TRADITIONAL ATTIRE
FILIGREE - DELICATE METALWORK, OFTEN USED IN TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE JEWELRY
FOLCLORE - PORTUGUESE FOLKLORE, ENCOMPASSING TRADITIONAL MUSIC, DANCE, AND STORIES
CANTE ALENTEJANO - A TRADITIONAL POLYPHONIC SINGING STYLE FROM THE ALENTEJO REGION
AMÁLIA - REFERS TO AMÁLIA RODRIGUES, THE ICONIC FADO SINGER WHO POPULARIZED THE GENRE GLOBALLY.
VIRA - A TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE FOLK DANCE WITH FASTPACED, ENERGETIC MOVEMENTS.
MANTAS - TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE WOOL BLANKETS, OFTEN HANDWOVEN AND DECORATED WITH PATTERNS.
CORTIÇA - CORK, A TRADITIONAL PORTUGUESE MATERIAL USED IN VARIOUS CRAFTS, INCLUDING FASHION AND FOOTWEAR
MIIKE RITA
Portuguese/Canadian comedian and actor.
REETS
Mike Rita spun his tale of growing up in a Portuguese immigrant family in a not-soglamorous corner of West downtown Toronto into a comedy goldmine! With a sprinkle of his family's quirks and a hearty dose of their grind-it-out work ethic, he shattered the low bar set for Portuguese-Canadian boys like him. Now, he's rocking the comedy scene in Toronto and winning hearts across the Portuguese diaspora!
For the rest of my life, no matter how big or little I am at the finish line, I'll never be to good to appreciate the little slices of history that exist all along this incredible ride.
-Mike Rita
Mike’s parents, Carlos and Maria Pimentel de Melo, kicked off their love story in Ribeira Quente, a charming fishing village on São Miguel island, Azores. Carlos, a fisherman’s son, had some battle tales from the Colonial Wars in Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau, while Maria hailed from a peasant family. In 1975, they packed their bags and made the big leap to Canada, settling in Toronto and tying the knot. Carlos kicked off his career as a cobbler before diving into the world of machine metal work, while Maria donned her cleaning lady cape one of her gigs even had her sprucing up for Governor General Adrienne Clarkson!
Born in 1990, Mike was raised to proudly wave his Portuguese flag, diving headfirst into vibrant community festivities, homemade wine making, and the not-so-glamorous art of pig slaughtering. He strummed his way through life on the accordion, caroling door-todoor with his parents until the sun peeked up at three in the morning. Oh, and let’s not forget Mike's other great love weed! His passion for pot culture is a hilarious highlight of his comedy and public persona!
MIKE'S EXCEPTIONAL TALENT HAS TAKEN HIM TO SOME OF THE MOST PROMINENT PLATFORMS IN COMEDY, INCLUDING THE ACCLAIMED JUST FOR LAUGHS COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TV’S ROAST BATTLES CANADA. HE HAS SHARED THE STAGE WITH COMEDY LEGENDS LIKE RUSSELL PETERS AND HAS OPENED FOR RENOWNED COMEDIANS SUCH AS JOE ROGAN, TOMMY CHONG, GILBERT GOTTFRIED, AND MANY OTHERS. WITH HIS SWIFT ASCENT IN BOTH STAND-UP AND TELEVISION, MIKE RITA IS A PERFORMER YOU WON'T WANT TO OVERLOOK.
THE FUNNIER SIDE OF GROWING UP ETHNIC
PORTUGUESE PROBLEMS
WE FINALLY MADE OUR DREAM A REALITY AND CREATED SOMETHING TRULY UNIQUE AND SPECIAL; OUR VERY FIRST TV SHOW!!! IT’S TITLED “PORTUGUESE PROBLEMS”, A 6 EPISODE HALFHOUR SKETCH COMEDY SERIES ON RTPI, RTP PLAY AND WILL ALSO AIR IN PORTUGAL ON RTP1! BIG THANK YOU TO RTP FOR HAVING THE FAITH IN US TO CREATE THEIR FIRST EVER ENGLISH PRODUCED PROGRAM OUTSIDE OF PORTUGAL. IT’S BEEN A WILD RIDE FOR USTHIS YEAR WE CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF PERFORMING ON STAGE TOGETHER AND WE WOULDN’T CHANGE IT FOR THE WORLD WE DIDN’T DO THIS ALONE! JOINING US ON SCREEN WILL BE MIKE RITA, VANESSA MEDEIROS, TAYLOR AMARANTE, CHANTELL ARRAIAL AND GRAÇA PINHANCOS- AN ALL PORTUGUESE CAST. SPECIAL THANK YOU TO EMMY AWARD WINNING CINEMATOGRAPHER DEAN CAMARA WHO TRULY MADE THIS PROJECT SHINE. - THE PORTUGUESE KIDS -
My name is Catarina, and I am the co-owner of Vianaccessories, a thriving business venture I share with my mother, Linda. Our brand is deeply rooted in tradition, yet blossoming in innovation, offering an array of handmade items inspired by Portuguese culture.
Based in New Jersey, Vianaccessories is a lusoamerican, women owned, small business. From clothing to accessories, purses to jewelry, we try our hardest to make sure that our creations accurately and beautifully embody the rich heritage of Portuguese Lenços and traditional patterns, with a modern twist.
Mãe e filha THE HEART OF VIANA
Our journey began long before our business was established, tracing back decades to my mother's early years in Portugal. Linda started dancing Rancho in Portugal at a very young age, and her passion continued to burn brightly when she immigrated to the US some 25 years ago. She made sure to pass this love to my brother and I, forming our deep connection to our Portuguese roots. For as long as I can remember, we have been a part of the vibrant Portuguese community here in New Jersey
As someone with an eye for fashion, I found myself looking for uniquely Portuguese pieces to wear at cultural events. In Portugal, I always saw stores selling beautiful lenço shirts, but I could never find anything similar here! Frustrated by the lack of options in the US, my mother and I embarked on a journey of creativity and entrepreneurship. Drawing from our shared love for Rancho and fashion, we founded Vianaccessories.
VIANAACCESSORIES
Launching
It has truly been an experience that I would relive one hundred times over.
Launching a business within such a niche community definitely posed its challenges. Today, nearly a year later, we stand proudly thanks to the support from family, friends, and other Portuguese immigrants around the world. We have recieved an immeasurable amount of love from complete strangers, and it has been incredibly reassuring and motivating.
Beyond the success measured in sales, the true reward is the bond my mother and I have formed. Despite our occasional disagreements and creative differences, the shared moments of creativity and collaboration have strengthened our relationship in ways we never imagined. Whether we're sewing side by side for hours or calling eachother at crazy times to brainstorm new ideas, each day brings us closer together. It has truly been an experience that I would relive one hundred times over.
THE “PORTUGUESE PALM SPRINGS”
The Portuguese fell head over heels for Pismo Beach, flocking there so much that the town earned the playful nickname ‘the Portuguese Palm Springs’! They brought their vibrant traditions along, kicking off one of their most beloved celebrations, The Feast of St. Anthony of Padua, straight from Lisbon, Portugal! The party got started in Pismo Beach back in 1956, and it’s been a blast ever since!
The Pismo Beach St. Anthony Celebration procession is like a parade on steroids—possibly the biggest bash in the whole state! If it’s your first rodeo joining the community for some delicious food, get ready for a weekend adventure in Pismo Beach that’s anything but ordinary!
Thankfully for the Portuguese Heritage Association the Portuguese have another yearly event to add to their roster! Join us October 12th as we celebrate “Portuguese Heritage Day!”
MADE IN CALIFORNIA SLODEVIE
MULHERVELHAAGUARDENTE
Portuguese Style Brandy
Mulher Velha Aguardente has been created after an old world tradition, which I have carried with me from my childhood home in the Azores Islands of Portugal
At Slo De Vie Distillery, we combine two traditional styles of this spirit: Vinica, which is distilled from young fresh wine, and Bagaceira, which is distilled from pomace (pressed grape skins) We use pomace from choice vineyards in Edna Valley on California’s Central Coast It is processed immediately after the pressing to capture delicate flavors Only destemmed grapes make it into our traditional copper pot still, thus avoiding any hint of wood alcohol
Both Vinica and Bagaco are blended together, then aged in fine oak barrels to round up the flavor in order to satisfy the most discerning Aguardente connoisseurs
CARRIENATIONVODKA
Vodka from CA Grapes
Carrie Nation Vodka is named after the six-foot-tall hatchet-wielding persona of the Temperance movement who entered saloons with a greeting “Good morning, destroyer of men’s souls ” She then would “hatchetise” saloons whilst singing hymns After famous boxer and proprietor John Sullivan ran and hid at the sight of Carrie’s entrance, it became apparent that men of Congress would follow suit and vote for prohibition Whoever said that Vodka can’t reflect terroir hasn’t tasted this spirit. Carrie Nation Vodka comes from distillation of the Central Coast grapes, coupled with our own crisp fresh well water Our vodka is gently filtered to enhance its smooth texture. Eminently sippable on its own, or in mixed drinks, Carrie Nation Vodka will delight your senses
AGUARDENTEANISE
Anise Seed Flavored Brandy
Slo de Vie Distillery - is proud to present the ancient way of making Aguardente Anise Just two ingredients are used: grape spirit and anise seeds Both are distilled together using a traditional copper pot still and comes either aged or unaged The resulting spirit is subtle, aromatic and deeply comforting! It is customary to mix the spirit with water in a glass at which point it will turn into a light milky color Aguardente Anise pairs well with mussels, scallops, bacalao, feta and goat cheese with basil and olives It is nice to sip at the end of a meal, or any other time!
AGUARDENTEMARACUJA
Passion Fruit Flavored Brandy Passion Fruit, or Maracuja, grows in abundance in Azores Passion Fruit is an integral part of the islands cuisine and is known as the fruit of tranquility Maracuja is used in baked goods, cakes, yogurt, mousse, jams and jellies, sodas, liquors and tea Aguardente Maracuja is very nice to sip chilled, or on ice and it is our homage to the old world tradition in honor of our culture
AGUARDENTEBRANCA
Freshly distilled Aguardentea
Having been born in the Azores, I remember my father, grandfather, and uncles making Aguardente They took great pride in sharing it with friends and relatives. I remember great stories told ringing with laughter over freshly distilled Aguardente
It is my goal to keep up the tradition of the old country alive here, at my new home in California At Slo de Vie Distillery, we distill local grapes, using our copper pot stills. We diligently cut away heads and tails and only the heart makes it to this bottle
TWOFOXES
California Premium Grappa d’Uva
Combining traditional methods of Italian Grappa makers and French Cognac and Armagnac distillers with our own innovations, Two Foxes Grappa D’Uva is the very definition of Old World meets New Distilled in small batches in all-copper pot still from wine and fresh-from-the-press grape pomace using strict cut, Two Foxes and It is further pampered in oak barrels to round the taste
CARRIENATIONGIN
Gin from CA Grapes
Carrie Nation Gin is named after the six-foot-tall hatchetwielding persona of the Temperance movement who entered saloons with a greeting “Good morning, destroyer of men’s souls ” She then would “hatchetise”
saloons whilst singing hymns After famous boxer and proprietor John Sullivan ran and hid at the sight of Carrie’s entrance, it became of Congress would follow suit and vote for prohibition represents of apparent that men
Our Gin the the beautiful Central Coast The spirit comes from locally grown grapes which add gentle character to the mix
Many botanicals such as rosemary, lavender and Seville orange are grown in our own backyard and fresh water is drawn from our local artisanal well Carrie Nation Gin brings to you the magical flavors of the Central Coast distilled essence
7 8 4
AGUARDENTEFIG
Gently distilled in copper pot stills
Grapes, olives, and figs offer the most emblematic representation of Iberian culture and cuisine. Those were the first plants that immigrants and missionaries cultivated upon arrival to California Following the old world tradition, our Fig Aguardente is gently distilled in copper pot stills
We diligently cut away heads and tails and only the heart makes it to this bottle We strive to bring forward the true expression and character of this ancient fruit It is our hope to see everyone happy raising a glass of Aguardente Fig
CALIFORNIAGRAPPAD’UVA
Award Winning Grappa
Slo De Vie Grappa D’Uva combines traditional distilling methods of Italian Grappa, French Cognac and Armagnac with our own innovations
the very select
Thus it is the very definition of Old World meets New We distill from local wine and fresh-from-the-press grape pomace using our all copper pot still. Only rich and elegant cut makes it to the “heart.”A blend of three to seven years old spirit, aged in French oak barrels offers great complexity and vigor Slo De Vie Grappa D’Uva is distilled, aged and bottled at our distillery in Grover Beach, California
AGUARDENTERESERVA
Port Barrel Aged Aguardente
At Slo De Vie Distillery, we combine two traditional Portuguese Aguardente styles: Vinica, which is distilled from young fresh wine, and Bagaceira, which is distilled from pomace (pressed grape skins) We use pomace from choice vineyards in Edna Valley on California’s Central Coast. It is processed immediately after the pressing to capture delicate flavors Only destemmed grapes make it into our traditional Copper Pot still, thus avoiding any hint of wood alcohol Our Reserva is the result of a very strict cut, which translates into a pure heart of the spirit
200 S 4TH ST, GROVER BEACH, CA
OPEN HOURS: FRI & SAT 12-6
Other days by appointment only.
MJOE AC
Dive into the rich culinary traditions of Portugal and America with Chef JoeMac’s Table: Portuguese & American Cuisine. A celebration of flavors, featuring a delightful mix of traditional Portuguese dishes and classic American favorites. Each recipe is crafted with love and expertise, reflecting Chef JoeMac’s extensive culinary journey and heritage.
JOEMACHADO Agency
BUY HERE!
Joe a published author, business executive, business owner,andproudLeCordonBleugraduate Bornand raisedintheAzores,Portugal,andspentthelast45years in the USA, primarily in Northern California. Himself and beautiful wife have called North Carolina home for the pastfouryears.Hespentmostofhiscareer runningverylargetomediumsizebrandsasaCOOand CEO,workinghiswayupfromGeneralManager positions.
“Our brand encompasses cookbooks, a line of gourmet/designer spices, sauces, and European and American-stylegourmetcoffeeblends.Wehaveadeep love for Mediterranean and Portuguese cuisine, and a specialfondnessforNorthCarolinaBBQ!”
The first cookbook, released in early 2022, and is available at major retailers including Walmart, Amazon, andTarget.
Ourfirstcookbook,releasedinearly2022,isavailableatmajorretailersincludingWalmart, Amazon,andTarget.Afterretiringfromalifelongcareerintherestaurantindustry,Idecided to pursue my own business ventures. Leveraging my culinary training and extensive experience,Ilaunchedalineofdesignerspicesmadefromthehighestqualityingredients. WethenintroducedatraditionalPiriPiriSauce,celebratedforitsuniqueculturalflavorand balanced heat. Our journey continued with the creation of European and American-style coffeeblends.
Chef JoeMac’s Traditional Piri
Piri Sauce
Experience the authentic taste of Portugal with Chef JoeMac’s Traditional Piri Piri Sauce. Crafted with the finest ingredients, our sauce is a perfect blend of heat and flavor, designed to elevate any dish Inspired by our rich culinary heritage, this sauce brings a unique cultural twist to your table. Unlike typical hot sauces, our piri piri sauce focuses on maximizing flavor, not just heat, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen Whether you’re marinating, grilling, or simply adding a finishing touch, Chef JoeMac’s Piri Piri Sauce promises to deliver a burst of vibrant, mouth-watering goodness
Chef JoeMac’s Gourmet Spices
Chef JoeMac’s Gourmet Spices Elevate your culinary creations with Chef JoeMac’s exclusive line of gourmet spices. Each blend is meticulously crafted to bring out the best in your dishes, whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simply adding a finishing touch. Our spices are inspired by unique Portuguese flavors and designed to enhance the taste of beef, chicken, pork, and more.
Splash of Portugal: A vibrant blend that captures the essence of Portuguese cuisine, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal.
Island Tropical Splash: Infused with tropical notes, this spice blend is ideal for those who love a hint of exotic flavor in their dishes. Iberian Coast Seasonings: A versatile mix that brings the rich, savory tastes of the Iberian Peninsula to your kitchen. These spices are not only great for BBQ rubs but can also be sprinkled on any food item to enhance its natural flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, Chef JoeMac’s spices will transform your cooking experience.
Chef JoeMac’s Gourmet Coffee Blends
Indulge in the rich and diverse flavors of Chef JoeMac’s gourmet coffee blends Each blend is crafted with precision and passion, bringing together the best of European and American coffee traditions. Our coffee line is designed to cater to a variety of palates, ensuring a perfect cup for every coffee lover
European Dark Roast
This blend offers a robust, full-bodied flavor with low acidity and a semi-sweet, earthy profile. Ideal for those who appreciate a darker brew, it stands up well to both filter and espresso brewing
American Classic Blend
A smooth and balanced coffee with a medium roast profile, perfect for your everyday cup It combines rich flavors with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile choice for any time of day.
Inspired by traditional Portuguese coffee, this blend delivers a bold and intense flavor, perfect for espresso lovers. Its deep, rich taste is complemented by a smooth finish, making it a delightful experience with every sip.
Jessica DeMelo
WALT DISNEY WORLD, FLORIDA
DISNEY CRUISE LINE
CASTAWAY CAY
CLICK HERE!
Devin Meireles is a creative nonfiction writer in his thirties. His articles have been featured in literary journals, health magazines, and cultural newspapers. He was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, where growing up around the Portuguese diaspora had a profound effect on him.
His two self-published books celebrate his love of family and the place they come from to preserve his rich Portuguese ancestry ‘The Portuguese Immigrant: Atlantic Heritage Story’ is a biography about his grandparents’ immigration from the Azores; and ‘Finding Madeira’ is a travel journal about finding heritage where you feel most at home
Devin’s contribution to the Portuguese diaspora dialogue is to be applauded It’s heartwarming to know that the history of Portuguese immigrants to Canada continues to be written and that the stories of individual families become part of the collective narrative of the Luso experience.
By writing about his heritage, Devin gives his family the greatest honour anyone can think of: perpetuating them through the written word; by writing about Portugal, he honours his place of family origin.
Apart from creative writing, he enjoys collecting tattoos, banknotes and travel stamps He lives near Lake Ontario with his wife and dog
10 TIPS FOR HOSTING YOUR FAMILY FROM PORTUGAL
BY: DEVIN MEIRELES
First impressions are key. That’s why it’s important to get your house in order before the visitas arrive. Otherwise they can lose faith as quickly as they step in Avoid the judgment and those side-eyed looks with a sparkling clean home for your guests.
2.
In the same motion of tidying your space, make sure to conceal all remnants of party paraphernalia. That includes your hidden stash, pipes and bongs and unmentionable toys Leave no evidence of criminality or else that could be the stain that smears your perceived morality.
3.
Your family may be adverse to recreational drug use but alcohol typically has no limits. If there is fun to be had, it’s with booze and lots of it! So stock up on the beer and aguardente and let the good times roll. Or else a dry house will be enough to rue the stay
4. Learn To Cook
Along with a fridge full of drinks, your guests need to eat, and they’re not accustomed to fast food. Our Portuguese friends are used to fresh, home cooked meals. So it might be a good idea to scrounge up some quick recipes and serve them something other than takeout. Or at least have some resources that they can munch on while at home.
5. Tolerate Language Barriers
English may not be their forte. In the same way we don’t appreciate our Portuguese being criticized, there is no need to laugh at how they pronounce their sentences Just be courteous and do your best to understand them. This may even be an opportunity to improve your vocabulary and speak better Portuguese.
Hide Foul Play
Stock Up The Fridge
6. Be Ready To Drive, A Lot
Hosting can be tiring but making memories to last a lifetime can be the most fulfilling thing you can do All for family Be ready to sacrifice a lot of sleep and personal time to give them a trip they’ll never forget. That involves a lot of time on the road to make it happen.
As you exert all your energy to show them a good time, don’t count on sleeping much. For that matter, you may even give up your bed to make sure they are taken care of. You’d be surprised how much adrenaline can carry you throughout and don’t worry, you’ll catch up on Z’s when they depart back home.
Being a gracious host, make sure you treat your houseguests to a good time out that includes a nice dinner. Not only will that relieve you of cooking another meal but also provide a unique experience for them to savour. Needless to say, don’t split the bill nor let them get a look at the cost For everything they do when you ’ re in Portugal, it’s the least you can offer!
9. Avoid Tourist Traps
It’s the nature of the Portuguese to be smart with their money. So, unless something really peaks their interest, don’t waste any time on the typical tourist attractions. Observation decks, museums, bus rides, none of it is worth the admission, and besides, most of them offer a picturesque view from outside the entry point. You will save time, money and the guilt trip of wasting either of those.
10. No Encomendas
After an extended stay, packing can be a feat with all the souvenirs collected. Needless to say, your guests don’t need any more stuff to fit into their suitcase No gifts or anything else Do not send them home with encomendas! The most lasting thing you can give them are memories for a lifetime. Rest assured they will look after you just the same when you go back to Portugal.
7. No Need For Sleep
8. Pay The Bill
ourosts
Earlier this year, PALCUS launched its new signature event - Heritage Portugal, inviting a group of 12 Luso-Americans to participate in a cultural enrichment program throughout the mainland and Azores. This immersion focused on creating connection points to the nation’s past, present, and future - highlighting the most unique elements of Portuguese culture, discussing the country’s current sociopolitical contexts, and helping them find their roles in the society of tomorrow.
Drafted and developed by the cohort themselves, the now-available 2024 Heritage Portugal Program ($35, hardcover) gives readers a peek into the day-to-day of the program and insights into the minds of the participants Across these chapters, individuals will be able to understand more about the cohort’s individual stories, insights and reflections by PALCUS leadership, and the impact of a new commitment toward Portuguese cultural investment.
Help support PALCUS and future cohorts of the Heritage Portugal program by snagging a copy today!
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• Minimum 21 years.
SEP IRA Policy Highlights
Contribution Amount
• Minimum $100 Initial Deposit available with $25 per month EFT
•
•
Current Interest Rate
• Interest Rates are determined every year by the Board of Directors
Contributions Limits on SEP IRA’s as per IRS limits The contributions made to each employee’s
SEP IRA each year cannot exceed the lesser of 25% of compensation or $69,000 for 2024
Guaranteed Interest Rate
• 3%
Taxation
• Tax deferred until withdrawal
• Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income 10% IRS Tax Penalty for withdrawals before 59 1/2
Annuitization Income Options
• Interest Income, Fixed Period, Specified Amount, Single and Joint Life, Life Income with Guaranteed period, Life Income without Guaranteed period
for the love of folklore!
Directions: Send a snap shot of your artwork to portuguesemedia@gmail com or @PAMAmedia on all social media platforms. 6 entries will be voted on our FB page and the winner will be submitted in the PAMA Magazine and receive an in and out gift card!
PAMA
PAMA PULSE MUSIC SPOTLIGHT
JOEY MEDEIROS
Musicans of our community
Music has the ability to bring people from different backgrounds together and create a sense of unity and understanding
DOWNLOAD THE PAMA APP TO HEAR JOEY AND MANY MORE!
JOEY MEDEIROS
MUSICIAN -VOCALIST - PRODUCER
Love for music.
Joey Medeiros was born on January 7, 1992, in San José, California. He was a cheerful child who learned through observation and participation in the activities around him His musical life began at the age of three when he enthusiastically sang along to the radio. By listening to and singing the songs on the radio, he learned two things: first, he discovered his love for music, and second, he learned to speak Portuguese fluently.
By the age of nine, Joey already had an artistic agent. At that point in his life, he worked in television and print. To this day, he is a member of SAG-AFTRA.
THE EVOLUTION
Joey Medeiros started performing professionally for Portuguese communities in California and soon after for communities in other parts of the world. He spends most of his time in his studio, where he enjoys singing, composing, and arranging his own music. Joey is currently earning his doctorate in music education at Boston University.
Joey is passionate about creating music for all generations, and his music encourages people of all ages to participate in Portuguese festivals.
Yourparagraphtext
July 10, 2024
As Scammers Target PG&E Customers, Here’s What You Need to Know to Not Fall Victim
Customers report losses of over $300,000 during 2024
OAKLAND, Calif. Utility scams have continued at an alarming rate during 2024, with Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) customers reporting over $300,000 in losses to scammers. To stop this trend, PG&E is committed to helping customers recognize the signs of a scam and avoid falling victim
A typical sign of a scam targeting a utility customer includes a caller claiming to be from PG&E and threatening disconnection if immediate payment is not made via a pre-paid debit card, digital payment mobile application, or other methods of money transfer. As a reminder, PG&E will never send a single notification to a customer within one hour of a service interruption and will never ask customers to make payments with a pre-paid debit card, gift card, any form of cryptocurrency, or instant mobile payment applications, like Zelle® or Venmo
“Scammers seek to create a sense of panic, threatening disconnection of utility services if immediate payment is not made,” said Matt Foley, lead customer scam investigator for PG&E. “If a phone call, visit to your home or email doesn’t feel right, don’t fall for it. Hang up, shut the door or delete it Remember, PG&E will never ask for your financial information over the phone or via email, nor will we request payment via pre-paid debit cards or other methods of money transfer, including mobile applications.”
During 2024, PG&E has received nearly 13,000 reports of scams targeting residential and business customers with customers reporting losses of over $313,000 The average scam victim lost over $600, and nearly 500 customers have reported falling victim This number is likely just the tip of the iceberg however, as many scams go unreported.
Business customers also are not immune from scam attempts In fact, PG&E has received nearly 400 reports of scams targeting small and medium-sized businesses, and these attempts frequently occur during busy business hours when scammers hope to catch unsuspecting victims while they are distracted or stressed.
Another recent scam trend involves scammers creating fake websites which provide a fraudulent phone number when you search services related to PGE such as “bill pay” or “start/stop” service These sites and phone numbers often appear when a handheld device is used to search for and contact PGE. As a reminder, customers looking to contact PG&E should either call our customer service number, 800-743-5000 or by logging into your account at www.pge.com.
Scammers can be convincing and often target those who are most vulnerable, including senior citizens and low-income communities. They also aim their scams at small business owners
during busy customer service hours. However, with the right information, customers can learn to detect and report these predatory scams by visiting www.pge.com/scams or by calling 1833-500-SCAM.
Signs of a potential scam
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• Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively demand immediate payment for an alleged past due bill.
Request for immediate payment: Scammers may instruct the customer to purchase a prepaid card, then call them back supposedly to make a bill payment.
• Request for prepaid card: When the customer calls back, the caller asks the customer for the prepaid card’s number, which grants the scammer instant access to the card’s funds
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Refund or rebate offers: Scammers may say that your utility company overbilled you and owes you a refund, or that you are entitled to a rebate, and ask you for your personal financial information.
Scammers Impersonating Trusted Phone Numbers: Scammers are now able to create authentic-looking 800 numbers which appear on your phone display. The numbers don’t lead back to PG&E if called back, however, so if you have doubts, hang up and either log into your account at pge.com to confirm your bill details or call PG&E at 1-833-500-SCAM If customers ever feel that they are in physical danger, they should call 911.
How customers can protect themselves
• Customers should never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. PG&E does not specify how customers should make a bill payment and offers a variety of ways to pay a bill, including accepting payments online, by phone, automatic bank draft, mail or in person
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If a scammer threatens immediate disconnection or shutoff of service without prior notification, customers should hang up the phone, delete the email, or shut the door. Customers with delinquent accounts receive an advance disconnection notification, typically by mail and included with their regular monthly bill.
Signing up for an online account at pge.com is another safeguard. Not only can customers log in to check their balance and payment history, they can also sign up for recurring payments, paperless billing and helpful alerts.
Customers who suspect that they have been victims of fraud, or who feel threatened during contact with one of these scammers, should contact local law enforcement. The Federal Trade Commission’s website is also a good source of information about how to protect personal information
For more information about scams, visit pge.com/scams or https://consumer.ftc.gov/scams.
About PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.
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