PAMA MAG JUNE 2024

JUNE 2024

VOL 1 ISSUE 3

Portugal PAMA is a strong ally to the LGBTQ+ communities

Welcome to PAMA Magazine!

Our magazine follows the same principles that our company and our radio stations have been created on: To inform and educate Portuguese Americans who speak English and may or may not speak Portuguese, yet want to know about our culture and our communities.

This is a one-of-a-kind project in English and will focus on not just Portuguese communities, but communities in general, with issues that affect us all.

We want this to be a new form of information and education while keeping our culture in the middle of all of it. Our contributors and staff are from all backgrounds and will enrich the content of this monthly online publication.

As always, PAMA keeps an open door policy for community advocates, leaders, and organizations to help spread the word about all issues, events, information, etc. and this magazine will be yet another means to do so.

I am formally inviting you to join our list of subscribers and if you want to be a contributor, that door is very open as well.

In the name of all our team, WELCOME, and we hope you join us from today on…

Sincerely,

Nelson Leite PAMA MEDIA

A little-Known war By: Cecilia Soares

I was pleased to see that the Dia de Portugal Festival in San Jose this year is celebrating the Carnation Revolution. It was 50 years ago that Portugal revolutionaries managed to pull off a bloodless overthrow of power. Fifty years is a big deal and a perfect time to reflect on its impact. Perhaps this was felt most strongly with the Portuguese soldiers who were fighting overseas at that time. How do I know this?

I have one of those veterans in my home – my husband Antonio, who has told me lots about his war time over the years.

In the 60’s & 70’s The tiny country of Portugal was trying desperately to hang onto its overseas colonies in Africa and Asia. Anyone can now see how futile it was for a small country to waste its limited resources trying to retain and govern its empire from so far away, when all these colonies really wanted was their own independence. So, young men were drafted to fight for their country. In fact, when a male reached the age of fifteen, he was no longer allowed to leave the country until his military service was completed.

A LITTLE KNOWN WAR

Among these draftees, was my husband who was assigned to serve in the large country of Angola in southern Africa. He said he was relieved at the time because one of the alternatives was Portuguese Guinea (now Guinea-Bissau) which was known to have the highest number of casualties. The enemy in both cases were guerrilla warriors. In Angola, they either supported the MPLA, UNITA, or the FLNA, although there were other less popular factions. The conflict between these factions is a complicated affair that has never been fully resolved. It involved Russia and the United States. The ruling party today is the MPLA which is supported by Cuba. I do not claim to understand this conflict, so I will just focus on the life of the Portuguese soldier fighting to protect Portugal’s imperialistic and outdated policies.

SOLDIERS WERE TRANSPORTED TO ANGOLA by ship or plane by the hundreds after completing their six-month boot camp training.

They were set up in barracks mostly in the coastal cities. They did daily drills and sentinel watches.

Their outings involved protecting food supply caravans that were sometimes attacked by wellcamouflaged guerrillas. They especially protected their communications operator who spoke in code and was always a target for the enemy. Some of their outings included weeklong treks into the jungle, mostly for preparedness drills. According to my husband, this was his least favorite part.

They would carry a heavy knapsack and the only food was a can of tuna, a can of chocolate milk and saltine crackers to be eaten three times daily.

To this day, he cannot stand to eat canned tuna.

Wild animals were a problem, especially leopards, snakes and hyenas. They often came across large snakes slithering up trees which was especially dangerous if they were black mambas which can kill a human in less than four hours.

He said it was always safer to be back in the barracks.

At the barracks, everyone had to look after themselves. They each slept with their rifle loaded and by their bedside. They had to bathe in the local rivers.

Grenades were detonated at the riverbanks to clear out the crocodiles and then half of them stood watch for more crocodiles while the other half bathed or washed clothes. The weather was also hot and humid. They also killed their own game and brought it back for the cook to prepare. Gazelle, deer and wildebeest were special treats. Vegetables were scarce, so meat was served with rice or potatoes.

Another constant threat was land mines. Picture Princess Diana in a protective suit being photographed for one of her favorite causes – the eradication of land mines. If you remember that photo shoot, then you are looking at Angola. To this day, adults and children still lose limbs when they accidentally step on a hidden land mine. My husband Antonio said that during his time there, land mines were often buried in roadways to catch their jeeps. Those were the expected ones, the ones hidden in the jungle were more treacherous as one never knew where they might be. According to a keynote address that Lady Di delivered when she visited Angola, there were fifteen million mines buried in a country that had a population of ten million. At the time of her death in 1997, there were about 800 deaths and 1200 injuries per month due to land mines.

Despite all these hardships, Antonio also had some fond memories. He created some lasting friendships and reconnected with some members of his old platoon through Facebook. He said they had good times when they went to the capital city of Luanda. Shrimp was abundant and nightlife was full of music and dancing to African merengue.

At the barracks, they had their own pet monkey who would steal anything he could get his hands on including shavers, combs and toothbrushes. He was so loved that their lieutenant brought him to Portugal when he returned.

The happiest day was when word reached their radio operator that the Revolution was taking place in Lisbon.

Within hours, they heard that not only was it successful, but no blood was shed. It meant that the war was over, and independence would soon follow. There was much celebrating that day amongst the soldiers.

They even danced with brooms all night. They didn’t go home for another eleven months, but they were now peacekeepers. They helped supervise the mass exodus of 500,000 Portuguese civilians, but the fighting was definitely over. Unfortunately, it was just the beginning of a 20-year conflict marked by more civil war and unrest for Angola. ​ oday, Angola is a county with beautiful T beaches and many resources like coffee, oil and diamonds. Big companies like Chevron are investing there and hopefully the future will be brighter.​It’s too bad that these Portuguese veterans, who live outside Portugal, are never recognized and honored for their service like they are in to the motherland. I think they are forgotten here and it’s a shame since their numbers are shrinking. Let’s not forget to appreciate their service wherever they may be.

THANK YOU Portuguese American Veterans For your service

27

D I A D E P O R T U G A L

W H Y D O W E C E L E B R A T E “ D I A D E P O R T U G A L ? ”

Portugal Day is a national holiday in Portugal that is celebrated annually on June 10th, the day of the death of poet Luis de Camões. This day pays tribute to Portugal, the Portuguese people, the Lusophone culture, and the Portuguese presence worldwide.

70

LUIS DE CAMOES Luís de Camões is considered Portugal's greatest writer and poet. He has even been compared to William Shakespeare. Among his most famous works, the epic poem ‘Os Lusíadas’ (The Lusiads), first published in 1572, is considered a literary masterpiece and widely regarded as the most important work of Portuguese literature.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE !

JUNE 8TH IN SAN JOSE CA

KELLEY PARK 10-5PM

of the Caration Revolution

We have so much fun in store for Dia De Portugal. Come find us at our booth and take pictures in front of our backdrop. There will also be a raffle and a coloring contest for kids to be featured in PAMA magazine.

Volunteers Needed!

Our Dia de Portugal Festival is only possible because of the volunteers who make it possible.

To volunteer, please call (415) 990-5534 or fill out the form on the Volunteers page today so that the committee can plan for your participation.

LGBTQ+ RIGHTS IN PORTUGAL

Portugal has been becoming more progressive over the years, and homosexuality was decriminalized in 1982 – which is quite a long time before many other countries. In fact, there are many countries (even in the western world) where the battle for gender and sexual equality is still ongoing.

Gay marriage is legal in Portugal, as are adoption by gay people and couples, and so is military service by gay people.

Currently, however, there is no ban on conversion therapy, which might not be a problem for visitors or immigrants but could be an ideological issue.

Gender identity and sexual orientation are protected in Portugal, so while you might still encounter some isolated incidents of discrimination in the country, you can report them and do have legal protection and recourse.

LGBTQ+ Marriage in Portugal

LGBTQ+ marriage has been legal in Portugal since 2010, and same sex or LGBTQ+ couples have the same right to sponsor their partners for immigration as heterosexual couples.

The legal age for same sex and LGBTQ marriage has been brought in line with heterosexual marriage too – so there is no additional waiting time for couples who want to tie the knot. Inheritance laws are also the same for both LGBTQ+ and heterosexual companies, so spouses and children have the same right to inherit.

Welcoming Neighbors

As with most countries, the most LGBTQ+ friendly places in Portugal are big cities.

Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve are at the top of the LGBTQ+ friendly list.

In the city of Lisbon, there are some areas that are considered more LGBTQ+ friendly than others, including: Principe Real – where the Pride parade happens Bairro Alto – a vibrant community that is popular with expats Cascais – a neighbourhood that is near but not in Lisbon Arroios – voted the coolest neighbourhood in the world in a recent poll

THE

LESBIAN

DAUGHTER

OF

PORTUGUESE IMMIGRANTS Although it has been 20 years since I first came out to my family and friends, I can remember the moment as if it were yesterday. I was nervous, understandably so, to finally openly express who I was. It was the summer before my freshman year of college and I had just finished 4 years of my high school career, in a small town in Massachusetts. I sat on my bed and contemplated what I was going to say to my Mom and Dad, who were just downstairs, cooking and watching tv.

There I was, just turned 18 years old, anxiously trying to navigate the words that were about to come out of my mouth. I was a daughter of two Portuguese Catholic immigrants and I was about to tell them that I was a lesbian. After an hour of contemplation, I called for my Mom to come upstairs.

BY: VANESSA MEDEIROS

I could not recite word for word what came out of my mouth; however, I know that it was not what I had rehearsed. I remember telling her that I “liked girls more than friends”. After some mumbling and crying, I was finally able to get my point across to her. She appeared to be surprised but also supportive with a bit of confusion in the mix. I do not think she was expecting it, but it was a relief to know that she was accepting of it. She then called downstairs to my father, who does not let anything get to him, and asked him to come and hear what I had to say. My father had a response that truly calmed my soul, as he answered with humor, stating: “you are my daughter; if I like girls, it makes sense that you would too.”

That was it, in a matter of minutes, the conversation that I spent weeks thinking about was over. I was still unsure if they were truly accepting of it, and so I struggled with some anxiety thereafter. As time went on, and more people were informed, the more I began to feel like my truest, most authentic self. Three out of my four grandparents were also very accepting of me; which truly made me feel as though being a lesbian was just a bonus to the fact that I was a daughter, granddaughter, niece, and cousin of Portuguese immigrants. I felt empowered to be a voice in many ways for a varied group of people. I embraced all parts of who I was and began to flourish in ways that allowed me to express myself freely and creatively.

I became a part of the local comedy community, becoming a member of “The Portuguese Kids”, entertaining others with a lighthearted and creative approach to bring laughter and “saudades” to the Portuguese community. I became comfortable with being an advocate and “voice” in my daily job, assisting and supporting youth and families with concepts of identity. I became a vessel of support for those individuals of Portuguese families who shared a similar story. I became a shoulder to cry on for those who did not receive the level of support that I did.

As time went on, I realized that acceptance, or lack thereof, had less to do with my Portuguese culture, and more to do with individual people. Fast forward to today, June of 2024, and I am happily engaged to a Portuguese female. My fiance’s family, much like mine, is beyond supportive and accepting. I hope to continue to exist in a space where other individuals can feel supported and loved through their journey, whatever that journey may be. I hope to continue to be an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community through my stories, experiences, and overall lifestyle.

Homosexuality Vs. the community BY: NELSON LEITE

In 2024, being gay, bi, trans, or having an alternative lifestyle, in general, is still “taboo” amongst the Portuguese community. Most people, like myself, are all about the MYOB (mind your own business) when it comes to how other people live their lives. If it makes them happy and doesn’t affect me personally, then who cares?

Still, many believe otherwise, and it is because of them, that many people truly want to come out to the World and be themselves, but don’t because of the fear of being judged, criticized, hated, neglected, and embarrassed by their closest friends or family.

The facts are, that there are amazing gay people in

WE CAN DO BETTER….

As a community, As an individual.

Let’s once and for all embrace diversity.

Let’s accept all for who they are.

our communities who do amazing good, they

Let’s treat all people, for

contribute every day like any other person, or many

what they are…PEOPLE.

times even more.

Some dare to come out and tell everyone who they are, while many others hide in fear of judgment, ignorance, or even hate. Isn't it time for us as a people to be understanding? To be caring and loving of all others regardless of what makes them happy in their private lives?

If your son or daughter comes out, LOVE THEM JUST THE SAME! They are just looking for happiness in the way they feel inside. WHO CARES what society thinks!

They are still the same person, with a different view from yours about love.

WE ARE ALL PEOPLE. Let’s be better, let’s do better.

Happy Pride Month!

Music Spotlight Musicans of your community Highlighting Luso Musicians

Music has the ability to bring people from different backgrounds together and create a sense of unity and understanding

We are happy to highlight fadistas David Silveira Garcia & Katrina Pacheco

CALIFORNIA BORN FADISTA

David Silveira Garcia David Silveira Garcia was born on December 7th, 1980 in San Jose, California to two adoring Azorean immigrant parents, Rosa Maria and António Garcia.

Since David’s parents had only been in the U.S. for six years, David was raised in the true, old-fashioned Portuguese way: only speaking Portuguese and listening to all genres of Portuguese music.

He attended private Catholic school at Five Wounds from Kindergarten through 8th grade where he graduated in 1995. He then went on to attend his four years of high school at San Jose High Academy, where he was enrolled in their International Baccalaureate Program for Portuguese Studies. He then received his certificate of proficiency in the language when he graduated in June of 1999.

At a young age, David developed a love of music, whether it was singing or playing an instrument. In 1993, David began learning the Alto Sax, and only in a few months, was ready to play for the Portuguese Band of San Jose, where he played for fourteen years.

Within those fourteen years, he played the Alto Sax, the Tenor Sax, the Baritone Sax, and the Bass Drum when needed. In 1997, he became the band’s Assistant Conductor, having also served as president of the organization from 2002-2003.

David began playing the mandolin in the mid 90’s, having been taught the scale by his great-uncle, Luis Garcia da Rosa, who was a well know mandolin player, poet, and writer, both in the Azores and in the Portuguese community of San Jose.

CONTINUED - DAVID GARCIA

As a child, David always imagined setting foot in the world as Fadista. He idolizes fadistas like Carlos Macedo, Fernando Farinha, Carlos do Carmo, Amália Rodrigues, Mariza, and many others.

Helder Carvalheira, Manuel Escobar, and João Cardadeiro from 7 Colinas have been the backbone for David’s journey into the Fado world. Their constructive criticism, advice, and support have led David to a new chapter in his life, and having had a family filled with poets and musicians, it’s no surprise that David is now a Fadista. David had his first Fado night in January of 2011. Just a year later, he was already releasing his first Fado CD, “Fados d’Alma Lusa” which has reached airwaves in 14 countries across the globe. Since then, he has performed over 150 shows singing alongside more than 80 Fadistas and having been accompanied by more than 25 guitarristas. He has sung all throughout California, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Hawaii, Canada, the Azores, and even in some Fado houses of Lisbon in Bairro Alto and Alfama.

PALCO DA VIDA David raised the bar with the release of his second CD, “Palco da Vida”, where he comes into the world of Fado as a songwriter. In this album, David has two original Fados. The first, “Realidade de um Sonho,” elucidates in poetry and song the experience he had when he sang for the first time in the Fado taverns of Lisbon in 2013.

The second, “Joia Negra do Mar,” describes his roots and the homeland of his ancestors from the island of Pico in the Azores. These Fados, along with three other original lyrics written by Hélio Costa, Abel Raposo Sr., and Fábio Ourique, two original music compositions by Helder Carvalheira, and several traditional Fados from the 60’s and 70’s, bring together a collection of relatable emotions and life experiences in a personalized style as part of his “Stage of Life” (Palco da Vida). It’s no surprise that this album was recognized by the Recording Academy in consideration for the 61st ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS in 2018.

David had the pleasure of working on a project with several Portuguese artists from around the world where David represented the United States. This project showcased a virtual Portuguese global community embracing 6 continents, 10 countries, and 10 singers, with their anthem, “ABRAÇOS” (HUGS).

This song not only unites the artists, but it is able to capitalize on showing the world the best of what the Portuguese culture has to offer. It demonstrates a variety of Portuguese artists abroad who embrace their individuality, their culture, and their music. This song also identifies the participating artists in the album which commemorated the centennial of the beloved, Amália Rodrigues; AMÁLIA EVERYWHERE In December of 2020, David and Helder released their first fado single, “Negra Solidão”. This fado put into song the struggles many had been facing while in quarantine, dealing with isolation, and uncertainty.

In July of 2021, on the 101st birthday of Amália Rodrigues, David released his second fado single, “Rainha”. This was a perfect opportunity to pay tribute to the dearly departed Fado Queen with this original Fado, co-written by David and dear friend, Deolinda M. Adão. This single fado is also part of the worldwide tribute album previously mentioned, AMALIA EVERYWHERE. During the month of September 2021 (on World Peace Day) David released his third fado single, “Fado Igualdade”. This fado looks back through the years and reflects on how deeply divided we are, how far we’ve come, and how far we still need to go to truly achieve human equality. All three singles, being composed, arranged, engineered, and produced by Helder Carvalheira, were also released with a music video filmed and produced by his son, Evan Carvalheira, with Shot by Nave. These videos are all available on YouTube, while also being available on iTunes, Spotify, & Pandora along with both records David has released.

“I wanted to take this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our amazing Portuguese community for your unwavering support on my journey in the Fado world. Your encouragement means the world to me. As we kick off Pride Month, let's celebrate love, acceptance, and diversity together. Wishing everyone a joyous and empowering Pride Month! "

🏳️‍🌈

-David Silveira Garcia

KATRINA Katrina Nicole Pacheco was born on December 2nd, 1996 to Ulisses and Sandra Pacheco. She was born and raised in San Jose, California. Her father was born on the island of Graciosa, Azores and her mother was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Katrina attended Mt. Pleasant High School in San Jose where she was part of the school band, the French club, and the Portuguese club. She graduated in 2014 and went on to continue her education at San Jose State University. Here, she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, minoring in both Spanish and Sociology and graduated in 2019. Katrina is currently working towards obtaining her Master’s degree in Behavior Analysis with hopes of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

PACHECO

california fadista Katrina has always been very involved in the Portuguese Community and appreciates the rich and diverse culture. She has participated as a sidemaid for the Holy Ghost of Gilroy.

She has performed in Carnaval dances for the last 15 years, and currently plays clarinet for Nova Alianca Portuguese marching band where she started at the young age of 10.

Katrina is a young woman of many talents including music, singing, drawing and working with children. She began learning the piano when she was just six years old and taught herself how to play the guitar later on. Her current passion is Fado music and has been fortunate enough to perform in different venues throughout California.

Katrina’s mother, Sandra Pacheco an she has decided to follow in her footsteps. The first time Katrina performed Fado was at her mother’s CD release party in 2015 and has In 2019, she was honored to perform at the San Joaninas festa in Terceira, Azores.

Katrina is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and is supported by all of her family and friends.been performing ever since.

Dia De Portugal Património - Heritage, often referring to cultural and historical heritage.

Lusofonia - The community of Portuguese-speaking nations.

Marítimo - Maritime, highlighting Portugal’s seafaring history.

Descobrimentos Discoveries, referring to the Age of Discoveries.

Camaradagem Comradeship or fellowship.

Futebol - Soccer Seleção - National Team Jogador - Player Treinador - Coach Estádio - Stadium Partida - Match Golo- Goal Campeão - Champion Guarda Redes - Goalkeeper Defensor - Defender Meio-campista - Midfielder Atacante - Forward Arbitragem - Refereeing Árbitro - Referee Cartão amarelo - Yellow Card Cartão vermelho - Red Card Substituição - Substitution Treino - Training Tática - Tactics

DISNEY CRUISE LINE - CASTAWAY CAY

Jessica DeMelo Travel Planner Specializing in Disney Destinations

WALT DISNEY WORLD, FLORIDA

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“With my experience and expertise, I can help families plan every step of their vacation, removing the stress so you can enjoy the magic.”

ADVENTURES BY DISNEY - PORTUGAL

Speaks fluently in Portuguese

@friendlikejess jessica@friendlikemetravel.com

2024 Kits EURO CUP 2024 JERSEY

EURO 2024

BY: DANNY PINTO

PREP MATCHES

EURO 2024 GROUP F MATCHES

June 4 v. Finland (Lisboa – Estádio José Alvalade)

June 18 v. Czech Republic

June 8 v. Croatia (Oeiras – Estádio Nacional)

June 22 v. Turkey

June 11 v. Ireland (Aveiro – Estádio Municipal de Aveiro)

June 26 v. Georgia

THE QUEST It’s June…School is out, vacations to the Azores and Portugal are beginning… and the Seleção is preparing to add some more hardware to its trophy case.

The quest for a 2nd European Championship is on the hearts and minds of almost every fan of the Portuguese National Team. However, the lead up to this tournament for the Seleção has been very unfamiliar in comparison to previous tournaments and qualifications.

First off, this will be the first tournament since 2016 (do we remember who won that one?) that Portugal will not be led by manager Fernando Santos. As you recall, Santos and the Federação Portuguesa de Futebol (FPF) mutually agreed to part ways in December 2022 following Portugal’s quarter final exit in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Enter Roberto Martinez, appointed as the new manager in January 2023. A surprising hire, according to many soccer/futebol pundits (myself included), Martinez was available after resigning from the Belgian National Team following its disappointing exit in the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The questions and criticisms that came following Martinez's hiring were merited, but what ensued in EURO 2024 qualification was something never before seen in FPF history: a PERFECT qualification for a major tournament, as Portugal won all 10 of its group matches, scoring 36 goals and only giving up 2 en route to winning their group.

PAMA MAGAZINE

Continued Danny Pinto

VAMOS

PORTUGAL! The unfamiliar feeling of this dominant qualification was due in part to the Seleção making qualifying for the last couple of major tournaments much more difficult than a team of its caliber and talent should have ever had made it. Thankfully, it was not the case this time.

And as we fast forward to EURO 2024 in Germany, another unfamiliar sight is Portugal NOT being in the dreaded "Group of Death".

Much like its qualifying group, Portugal should come out of Group F in first place, ahead of their opponents: Turkey, Czech Republic, and Georgia.

On May 21, with a deep talent pool to choose from, Roberto Martinez called up his 26player squad tasked with bringing Portugal its 2nd European Championship. The squad is a balanced mixture of veterans (Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe), players in their prime (Rúben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes), and young, promising talent (Vitinha, Rafael Leão), among others.

If Portugal plays up to its talent and skill, there is no reason why the Seleção should not make it to at least the semi finals of EURO 2024... perhaps even making it to the final and winning the whole thing.

I cannot wait for EURO 2024 and what could be another magical Seleção summer...

FORÇA PORTUGAL!!!

11

You can order Devin’s books by tapping on the link below.

CENTRE OF THE ISLAND FEELS LIKE EATING IN HEAVEN By: DEVIN MEIRELES In the depths of the middle of the island, there is a place to feed your carnivorous appetite. The most authentic espatada you could ever have. Finding your way there will hardly be easy but this is one the most unique experiences that Madeira has to offer.

North of Funchal, there is a remote town that sits between mountain peaks, Curral das Freiras. It’s a hidden gem. I heard that the Catholics hid the nuns from intruding pirates there, hence the name —Nuns Valley.

It’s the chestnut capital of the island and offers a lot of flavoured liquors. During the Christmas season, they also have a mega presepio (nativity scene) that takes nearly fifteen minutes to walk through. It’s a pleasant little town accessible only from the south.

From there, you climb a road on the western side of the valley towards Miradouro de Fajã Negra, literally a dead end, but across the road is where you find Restaurante O Lagar Antiguidades. That’s where it is.

While we waited for our table to be prepared, we had a taste of their homemade aguardente (moonshine) for an aperitif. It tasted like fuel for an airplane. One of those shots could kill a rat but it opened our appetite for what was to come.

CONTINUED DEVIN MEIRELES

The menu is small yet perfect, specializing in a few items really, really well. Beef or chicken cooked with bay leaf skewers over an open fire. It’s juicy with a crispy char that’s tender enough to melt in your mouth. Accompanied with sides of bolo do caco (Madeiran bread), salad, and potatoes. That’s it. Simply heaven.

The candor of it all is reflective of the people of the valley. That’s what makes it so good. When you’re there you realize how the simple things in life are usually the best. Dining with a majestic view of the valley, it's an unadulterated experience unlike anything else. Just as if you’re dining with God themself.

While savvy locals make the trip there and hikers find the restaurant off the beaten path, they all leave with the same sentiment—a full stomach, catharsis and a reminder that life is what you make of it.

PAMA MAGAZINE

5

s ’ e n a i a D

Published in Portuguese (BRZ) and I did see that the movie has Portuguese subtitles as well!

“IN HONOR OF PRIDE! MONTH I'M GOING WITH AN OLDY BUT GOODY!’

What to expect:

Summary:

- Queer romance <3 - Funny - Cont. Romance - Entertaining

What happens when America's First Son falls in love with the Prince of Wales?

When his mother became President, Alex ClaremontDiaz was promptly cast as the American equivalent of a young royal. Handsome, charismatic, genius―his image is pure millennial-marketing gold for the White House. There's only one problem: Alex has a beef with the actual prince, Henry, across the pond. And when the tabloids get hold of a photo involving an Alex-Henry altercation, U.S./British relations take a turn for the worse.

Heads of family, state, and other handlers devise a plan for damage control: staging a truce between the two rivals. What at first begins as a fake, Instragramable friendship grows deeper, and more dangerous, than either Alex or Henry could have imagined. Soon Alex finds himself hurtling into a secret romance with a surprisingly unstuffy Henry that could derail the campaign and upend two nations and begs the question: Can love save the world after all? Where do we find the courage, and the power, to be the people we are meant to be? And how can we learn to let our true colors shine through? Casey McQuiston's Red, White & Royal Blue proves: true love isn't always diplomatic.

My Thoughts: This was one of the cutest love stories I've read. Lighthearted romance that fills the soul! Super romantic, most meaningful, intense... NO. But it made me laugh, it's fun and entertaining! It is a pretty "fast paced" read which I prefer in a romance novel since it doesn't really need space or time to world build or deeply develop characters and that made this book feel like a Rom-Com which I REALLY enjoyed! ( I just found out there is Movie that came out last year!!!!! Watching that tonight!) There were some things in the book that I just really can't help point out that this is obviously unrealistic with some of the characters' situations or logics but it was so good I didn't even care! It is not meant to be a deep romance but a rom-com through and through and it really delivered. The comedy was actually really good. If you're a Star Wars fan, you will LOVE references and bonding over Sci-Fi universe.

I could have done with more spice but...you know me ;)

My name is Joey Peixoto, and I am proud to be a first-generation Portuguese-American. I live in the Bay Area, California, and have always felt blessed to be surrounded by a large Portuguese community.

My love for our heritage and traditions blossomed at a very young age when my parents enrolled me in LusoAmerican Fraternal Society, Youth Council #16 of Contra Costa. Through this society, I learned to dance folklore, made many friends, and understood the true meaning of community. My passion for "Luso" led me to teach the youth in our community for two other youth councils after I was no longer considered a youth member.

Over my 22 years of service, I have formed numerous lifelong relationships and memories, for which I am profoundly grateful.

Joey Peixoto

JOEY PEIXOTO CONTINUED While my love for folklore flourished in Luso, I began my journey in various folklore groups, including; Rancho Folclorico "Centro Social Português," Rancho Folclórico "Portugal na California," and Grupo Folclórico "Alma Ribatejana." At the age of 21, I decided to fulfill my childhood dream of starting my own folklore group, Rancho Folclórico "Saudades do Ribatejo."

With the knowledge, skills, and relationships I gained from Luso and my previous folklore groups, I established Saudades do Ribatejo. Based in the Central Valley, California, our 30 members, some of whom travel up to 70 miles (113 kilometers) for practice, are united by a passion for our culture and traditions. Our group has performed throughout California and looks forward to performing abroad in the coming years.

In addition to folklore, I have played saxophone and keyboard in Conjunto Aliança for about 10 years and saxophone in Sociedade Filarmonica Lira Açoreana De Livingston for a few years. In 2016, I was fortunate to travel with Lira Açoriana da Terçeira, Açores, Portugal, to play in the Festa das Sanjoaninas. This was an experience of a lifetime, and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity.

CONTINUED JOEY PEIXOTO

In 2019, I made a promesa (promise) to become festa president in 2020 for a Holy Ghost Society that I have been involved with my entire life and served as festa king twice. Although 2020 was the year of the pandemic, we adapted with drive-thru dinners. I was then selected to be festa president again in 2021, as my first year did not count as a “real” festa year. Despite the continued restrictions in 2021, I would not change a thing. The Holy Spirit blessed me and guided me through these challenging times, and I am deeply thankful for that journey.

While I enjoyed all these endeavors, I also faced many hardships. As a child, I often felt like an outsider, never fitting in with either boys or girls.

For years, I struggled to fit in, believing something was inherently wrong with me. In my teenage years, as my differences became more apparent, I felt the need to present myself inauthentically to avoid ridicule and harassment.

At 17, I realized I was gay, a revelation that finally made sense to me. Although I was in denial for a few years, I eventually decided to live my authentic life. I never felt it was necessary to come out publicly, assuming everyone either knew or was in denial. I did not want to make a big deal out of it because, to me, I am just another normal person. My relationship might look different, but I am just like anyone else. While I do not make my sexuality my entire identity, I describe myself as a PortugueseAmerican who happens to be gay. I am now proud of my sexuality, despite the cultural and religious challenges. I strive to show that, despite being different, I can share the same space and take on leadership roles.

My goal has always been to foster a sense of community and belonging, bridging generational and cultural gaps to ensure our traditions are passed to future generations. My story is a testament to the power of cultural pride and community engagement in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant society. I am humbled to contribute to preserving our heritage and inspiring others to embrace their roots while navigating personal challenges with resilience and determination. Together, we can enrich our community and celebrate the diversity that makes us stronger.

Initially hesitant to share my life, I now believe that silence leads to stagnation. By sharing my story, I hope to make others like me feel more comfortable in our community and aspire to pursue leadership roles. If I can do it, you can too. The journey may be difficult, but the rewards are profoundly fulfilling.

Força para a nossa comunidade portuguesa!

JOEY PEIXOTO

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INTERNATIONAL PORTUGUESE MUSIC AWARDS 2024 WINNERS: THE COMPLETE LIST Music Video “We'll Be Fine” - The Manic Boys And Girls Club, Realizador: Ernie Vasquez (Canada) Instrumental “Folia” - Pedro H. da Silva, Lucía Caruso, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields (USA) World Music

“Caxon Ka Tem Cofre (ft. Charly Duri)” - Assol Garcia (USA) Traditional “Maria Faia (Ao Vivo)” - Filipa Biscaia (Portugal) Fado “A Ver as Vistas” - Ana Margarida Prado (Portugal) Rap/Hip-Hop/Dance “Vem Comigo” - Hipots (Portugal) Rock “A Love Revolution” - The Blues Emergency (Canada) Pop “Rock Paper Scissors” - CMAGIC5 (Canada) Música Popular “Nasci Maria” - Cláudia Pascoal (Portugal) Song of the Year “Need to Say” - Noa Rangel, escrito por Noa Rangel, Christina Chirumbolo (Portugal) People's Choice, presented by LIUNA-OPDC “Malhão Português” - 4MENS (Portugal) New Talent Alison DaSilva (USA)

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BUSINESS VOL. 11 | LICERIA & CO. | ISSUE 12

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