Spotlight Media Magazine - No.3 - 2021 SPRING ISSUE

Issue No. 3 Spring 2021

“To be beautiful and joyful for all to behold, choose Radiant Beauty Skin Care Med Spa.”

A PASSION FOR BEAUTY

Frances

Calayan R A D I A N T

MARTIN AND POPS: STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

ELECTRIC FEEL

SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

T R U E L OV E I S N ' T FO U N D IT'S BUILT.

Of Love, Light and New Year's Delight PEN DE LEON MANAHAN

Don’t you just love ringing in the New Year? The time when we are promised with new hope and a fresh start.

While we cannot discount the continuous rigors of the COVID-19 pandemic, we must choose to shine the spotlight on the opportunities this year brings. We had been brought down pretty badly in the past year, so we must treat it as the rock-bottom which also serves as the stone that will propel us back up, bigger and brighter!

Apart from welcoming 2021, this issue is also an ode to the season of love, where you will see light, leisure reads reminiscent of Valentine’s and also the celebration of the Year of the Metal Ox in deference to the Chinese Lunar New Year.

Within this issue you can expect a chockfull of articles that aim to delight and inspire: personalities such as Jergs Correa, the visionary behind the hottest new game, “Lockdown Hero” a testament to how great things can come from the most trying times.

Get a glimpse of powerful imagery as we fly to Paris to meet a photography ingenue, Ryan Arbilo, photographer to the stars and of breathtaking sights!

Take walk down memory lane with us as we talk to the Philippines’ dynamic love duo, Martin and Pops in an exclusive interview where the former married couple share how they continue to keep the musical flame alive even after all these years.

We encourage you to stay home but go on a gastronomic adventure in your own kitchen as we give you three different takes on your favorite dishes. We also feature “Breakable Hearts” by a business-minded and talented young baker from California; something you should consider including in your holiday menus.

I’d like to share one of my most favorite quotes about love,

by Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu, for it speaks of truth about Love as an unstoppable force: “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”

Be strong and be brave always!

Then, we dive into the Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman, where we also express our take and have a bit of fun with our very own Love Language Quiz.

Let God be our Spotlight.

And there’s so much more to discover only in the pages of your premier Asian American Lifestyle Source, just as there are so many delightful things to look forward to this year, so keep your heads up, and embrace the beauty of going back to basics and putting emphasis in what truly matters.

Founder & Publisher

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Table of Contents

08-11 Spoken like a True (LOCKDOWN) Hero with Jergs Correa

40-42 For the Love of Travel

13-14 Poetry in Pictures

by Ryan Arbilo

56-59 What’s your Love Language?

16-17 GUERRA DE ROSAS: A red collection of ROCKY GATHERCOLE

66-69 Electric Feel

19-22 MARTIN & POPS: Straight from the Heart

30-37 Forever (20) 21

74-77 A Candid Heart to Heart with Ms. M

24-29 Frances Calayan Cuento: A Passion for Beauty

RECIPES: 44

Cupid’s Concoction

60-63

It’s All in the Stars

45

My Cherry Amour

70-71

Homebaked by Bam

46

Mint to be

78-80

Top 3 Fun Home Exercises

48-51

A Passion for Pasta

82-88

CDC Guidelines

52-53

Meat your match

SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

Spoken like a True

[Lockdown] HERO

They say that adversity only brings out one’s true identity. Not about to get knocked down by the pandemic lockdown, video game developer, 3D animator and entrepreneur extraordinaire, Jergs Correa achieves victor y in a time of difficulty.

What separates heroes from ordinary mortals? For me, it would be the uncanny ability of a man to see what most do not, and to take advantage of disheartening adversity and triumphing against the odds.

Where most whine and even decry the year 2020, Jergs Correa proved that he was no mere mortal, but a tech god, catapulting himself to groundbreaking history achieved in 2020 with Lockdown Hero.

Embracing the times, Lockdown Hero is an open-world adventure game where the player’s goal is to find a cure for the virus, and ultimately save the world from the pandemic. Set in 3rd person mode it has various gameplay for its open-world environment; like roaming the big city to do quests from the residents, scouring around for hidden prized items such as masks for protection, and even alcohol as a weapon! It is quirky, cute and so timely! It also boasts of map activities to unlock new gear for character customization and added fun.

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Players can also embark on ball games, gliding, driving and other mini game adventures that will surely get players of all ages hooked! Jergs even injects humor by alluding to pandemic frenzy quirks such as hoarding toilet paper!

One would be amazed to find that one-man show, Jergs Correa, the visionary behind Brick Greek Games, runs the show that has since gone viral. Correa shares that instead of letting the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic get him down, he switched gears and worked nonstop on this game. It was a wild idea that made sense to him, sharing, “I ran with the Lockdown concept since it was going to be a very timely and unique game.” After 5 sleepless weeks, Lockdown Hero was born. It was unveiled on April 12, 2020. Now we can all turn our minds away from COVID, thanks to this Cool Vid (Game)!

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More than just being a tech hero, Correa also owns a lucrative burger concept in an upscale mall in Manila, Philippines known as Brick Burger, now known as the coolest place, to hang out, build models using bricks, and most of all enjoy food that tastes as good as it looks, with the buns fashioned after colorful bricks! He is also is an awesome husband and dad! “I may be a one-man show as a developer, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t get any help; I am surrounded by inspiration, especially thanks to my daughter. She is now 10 years old and she was my QA game tester, and she also did some of the voiceovers!” This proved to be effective to the game’s success, as his smart and talented daughter helped him capture what would appeal to their broad target market. It was also their way to bond and for Jergs to instill in his daughter a profound love and appreciation for technology, and all its benefits. But that’s not all; Jergs is also developing an online RPG game that he will share with the world very soon!

Brilliant, creative and tenacious, Jergs Correa would like to remind everyone, especially as we all continue to navigate the aftermath of this pandemic that now is the time to reach for your dreams and make things happen, “Anything is possible. If someone like me can make a game all by myself, like most of the successful indie game developers out there, then you can do it too. Just remember to enjoy the journey. Use every milestone of success as a source of motivation and inspiration.”

We invite you and everyone in your family to bring out the hero in each of you today! It is beautifully and mindfully designed, even its background music is wholesome and safe especially for young (but already tech-savvy) children to enjoy!

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Lockdown Hero is available for download in the Google Play Store and it is also listed on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1359840/Lockdown_Hero/ You can also follow Brick Geek Games on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ brickgeekgames/ Lastly, don’t forget to watch the cute and exciting trailer on YouTube by subscribing to their official channel, Brick Geek Games and watching it at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIQiescoAqY

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SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

At the age of 22, Ryan moved to Paris to rejoin his mother who had not been present in his life for quite some time. Wide-eyed with wonder, the young man from Laguna explored the streets of Paris.

His immersion at the picturesque capital of street art with its historic bridges, squares, and landmarks brought him to study photography independently.

Little did he know that this path will lead him to worldwide acclaim with his socio-political art, illuminating the daily repertoire of working Filipinas in France and migrant Filipinas in Italy. His “accidental” art brought him to be the first Filipino photographer to exhibit his work at the very prestigious Maison Européenne de la Photographie in Paris. His nine-piece photography collection presented Filipino women and their hands damaged by their housekeeping work. The masterpieces were creatively taken from an angle that magnify the hands that serve as the main medium of livelihood. Aptly titled “Chicken hands”, the photos is his paean to the Filipina working woman whose voices are stifled by the economic dislocation from their motherland and the working conditions in a foreign country. In an interview article by Renee Ultado of ANCX, Arbilo reflects, “I wanted to pay homage to my mother, and on a bigger scale, to highlight the Filipinos’ conditions here in Europe,” says Arbilo. “The Filipino spirit. Our work ethic, strength, and dedication.”

POETRY IN PICTURES BY Ryan Arbilo

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His work became a big sensation in French art circles, which led him to more exhibits in Dubai, Milan, and Manila’s homecoming exhibit at the Yuchengco Museum. His next artistic sojourn was Italy in search of more “chicken hands” subjects.

However, the art muses led him to discover a new theme - the vibrant racial mix of Filipina women married to Italian husbands. The antecedent compilation shows mixed-culture families composing the Italian father, the Pinoy mother, and their Europinoy offspring photographed in an Italian ambiance. The fitting title was “Halo-Halo” a Filipino dessert with shaved ice and many different layers of sweet beans, fruits, and other treats. Sylvana Lorenz, a gallerist and Arbilo’s staunch mentor, says, “Halo-Halo follows different Filipinas who have claimed their rights to happiness, to be surrounded by a family, to be held, to be loved, and to be a woman.”

Ryan Arbilo is currently working on more exhibits in different parts of the world, as he champions the Filipino diaspora’s causes through Poetry in Pictures.

GUERRA DE ROSAS: A red collection of ROCKY GATHERCOLE

SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

Avant Garde and fashion design maverick, Rocky Gathercole is known for his outrageous sculptured art wear, which is not foreign to accolades from the world's entertainment and fashion industries. After all, his lineup of Hollywood clients such as Paris Hilton, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, J Lo and a host of many more celebrities are enough to speak of his high caliber work.

Discovered by agent, and currently managed by, Jacob Meir at a New York fashion parade, Rocky Gathercole continued to make waves in Hollywood with his astonishing work.

Mr. Gathercole is Filipino and raised by his American father and Filipina mother. He had a very humble upbringing as he used to live in the streets abd would sell food to make money as a teenager. When it comes to his fashionable talents, he is a self-taught designer without formal fashion education.

His parents were not able afford to send him to school, so he sustained and survived by plying the streets of Manila.

"My inspiration for my work is based on the textures, colors,

With the help and mentoring of a friend, he held a stunning

and beauty of what I see which gives me creative freedom.

career in Dubai through the years." I had to pretend that I

Independent women and strong men with daring personality

was a Fine Arts graduate in order to be accepted and taken

fuel my design," he declares.

seriously." While in Dubai, Rocky joined the Miami Fashion Week and received exceptional reviews which opened the opportunity for him to join the New York Fashion Week.

In New York, he met his manager and that paved the way towards an illustrious career in the world of fashion.

Rocky Gathercole presents his thoughts in the season of love and says, "Love is everywhere. Let us share that to everyone. For this pandemic, I urge all to pray and stay strong. Everything that is happening now will lead us to more positive results."

Rocky showcases GUERRA DE ROSAS (War of Roses) to readers of Spotlight Media Magazine.

A very Gathercole collection.

Photography by Roj Miguel. Make up by Naploeon Candelaria. Shoes by Jojo Bragais. Model is Vivian Gischewski Monteiro.

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M A RT I N AND PO PS : Stra ight Fr o m Th e Hea r t

As Valentine’s day approaches, we begin to think of love songs and love teams. If you are Filipino who grew up in the ‘80s, you absolutely can’t go without thinking about the most enduring love teams of that generation, Martin and Pops. Though their fans have matured since, they are still electrified by the love team’s on-stage magical chemistry as displayed at their reunion concerts.

Martin met Pops in the early ‘80s on the set of Penthouse Live TV show. Eventually, they were married and had two children, Robin and Ram. They were known to be The Concert King and Queen. After 14 years of marriage, they separated and led their own careers and lives. This year, they work together on a TV show called eXes and whYs, which is directed by their son, Robin Nievera.

Spotlight Media Magazine catches up with Martin and Pops as they give us the scoop on their show and how they find ways to keep the magic alive through the years.

ABOUT THEIR LOVETEAM SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE (SMM): What do you think makes your love team endure time and separation? The fans, as they matured, are still happy to see you work together. Tell us how you feel about your fans still patronizing your love team?

MARTIN: What's more amazing than how we as exe’s can still be friends and work together, is how the fans have stayed with us through it all. Yes, some have moved on, but the plentiful amount of our fans who have held on give us reason enough to do what we do together, even if we aren’t together like we used to be. Pops and I were the best of friends before we were anything else, so that foundation, plus Pops willingness to forgive, has kept our sincere magic strong.

POPS: It's the chemistry that somehow, we've always had. I am so happy that our followers are so supportive. They have been socially active as well, as I get to read some of their messages.

ON WORKING TOGETHER SMM : Is it easier to work with each other than before?

MARTIN: Of all those I have joined forces with on stage, and or television, Pops is the easiest. Even though we have not done this in years, it seems like only yesterday that we share a script. Until this day, we both know when the other should talk and sometimes finish each other's sentences. We know when to shine and when to step back to allow the other to shine too.

POPS: It has never been difficult working together. Whether we go through good times or bad, somehow, the magic happens and turns on the minute we get up on stage.

VALENTINE'S DAY THOUGHTS SMM: What comes to your mind on Valentine's Day? MARTIN: Pops and I, for many years now, have always had Valentine's Night. Even when we were still married, in some of our concert venues, we celebrated Valentine's. So Valentine's, for me, is a reminder of love through songs, but because of these weird times, this will be the first time in history that we won't have a Valentine's concert together or with anyone else.

POPS: It's a typical day for me...unless I have work (laughs).

ABOUT THE TV SHOW eXes and whYs SMM: Tell us how the eXes and whYs started as a project? What inspired both of you to do this?

MARTIN: For me, just knowing that Pops needed my help for this project and that our firstborn Robin was flying in from Hollywood, California, to direct us was enough motivation for me to do so.

POPS: It started as an idea for YouTube, then the idea grew bigger. When I pitched the show to Martin, he immediately liked the idea. Now with Robin helping us out behind the scenes, it makes it even more special.

SMM: What can fans expect from the both of you in this TV show as co-hosts? Will we see a modern version of Penthouse?

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MARTIN: Every time we talk to each other, or other people in the same party, it seems like "Penthouse Live," so I guess interviewing and telling stories is something Pops and I do naturally. And I believe that is what the fans who have stayed love the most. They are brought back to a happier time when we all met every Sunday on Penthouse Live.

POPS: We have matured (compared to our Penthouse days). You can see and hear it from our spiels. We are also used to working individually for the past years now, so it is exciting when Martin throws unexpected lines at me.

SMM: Timing-wise, what drove you two to produce this show during the pandemic?

MARTIN: Our schedules never aligned, and what could have been just a good idea for an online show, turned into content for an actual television show. This is where Pops and I are most comfortable. Our magic is natural and automatic. I don't have this connection with any of my other power collabs -and I have worked with the best.

POPS: It's always been on our minds. The thought of doing another show on the screen. I believe things happen at the right time, and since we still have mostly everyone still staying in their homes, having an added new program in their "to watch every week- list" should be good.

ON THE PANDEMIC SMM: While concerts are taking a backseat due to the pandemic, what non-showbiz projects, if any, have you ventured into?

MARTIN: Non-show biz projects? Hmmm, Sad to say I have no other talents. As a singer, I need to continue to sing to inspire and comfort people who may be alone and scared during this pandemic. So I do a lot of online charity work and perform for no other reason but companionship with the lost and lonely. I also keep myself busy by recording new songs with Vicor Records and shooting episodes of ASAP. POPS: I have an online shop of my merchandise: @perfsocial on IG and FB page and @bacolodatbp for food (laughs).

SMM: What thoughts can you share with the people during these dark and trying times?

MARTIN: I think every lesson learned from this pandemic should be wisdom we take with us to the new year and beyond. The most important lesson being is that we need to take care of each other by following the rules and being sensitive enough to stay socially distant and wear a mask. I am confident that we will all hug and smile again, but let's not be afraid to live love and laugh until then. Let's do all of the above carefully and responsibly.

POPS: We should never lose hope and keep our faith. This will pass. In the meantime, let us be grateful to each other and for all the blessings we have.

MARTIN NIEVERA

POPS FERNANDEZ

** For US viewers, eXes and wHys episodes will be posted on the Youtube channel Showboxx Media.

W W W. G O D B LV D . C O M

Frances Calayan Cuento

SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

A PASSION FOR BEAUTY

M

aking others feel and look beautiful is ultimately rewarding. All the good skincare can do for clients propelled Frances Calayan Cuento to pursue her passion in making people feel beautiful.”

I have this passion, almost an intense passion, to help people radiate the beauty within them. Each and every one of us are beautiful in our own way but because of aging, radical external environmental factors and stress, we become less confident in how we look. Our medical spa provides clients with high grade modern technology that will retain youthful land healthy looking skin.” Frances Calayan Cuento comes from a family of doctors and skin care experts. She graduated Cum Laude from the California State University in Fullerton with a Nursing degree and obtained her Master of Science in Nursing from the Azusa Pacific University. Currently, a licensed family nurse practitioner with extensive training in Aesthetics, Frances is a true-blue medical skin care expert -not just because of pedigree, but because of real scholastic training and years of practice. “At Radiant Medical Spa, we have meticulously selected non-invasive procedures that give highly effective results.” she adds. Her long line of very enthused and happy clients in Southern California and Southern Nevada speaks of her renowned skills in aesthetics and skin care.

T

he pursuit for beauty continues to be a family affair as husband Mariel “Muyie” Cuento, R.N. works with her in operating the medical spa.” My husband also shares my passion for beauty and skin

care.” the soft-spoken Frances narrates. With two skincare medical experts, how can you go wrong? Radiant Beauty Skin Care Med Spa offers a very impressive set of state-of-the-art treatments and services. Her top three treatments are Ultherapy, Thermage and Aerolase. Ultherapy is a skin tightening ultrasound procedure which combats the aging process by lifting, toning, and tightening deep facial structures. This is the best procedure for those who opt to have a facelift, neck lift and brow lift while skipping surgery’s risks and downtime.Thermage is another skin tightening treatment which works by focused radio frequency energy. The heat treats deep tissue and stimulates the body to heal by forming new collagen. It is ideal for facial lines and helps define the jawline and tighten loose jowls. The third popular treatment is Aerolase. It is an advanced skin rejuvenation laser procedure which addresses skin tone and texture, redness, pigmentation, and laxity. This is very effective in controlling acne, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and facial hair removal.

V

ery soon Radiant Beauty Skin Care Med Spa will launch an online store which will promote high medical-grade skin care products. Frances Cuento excitedly shares, "This is a game changer in

home skin care routine with our signature product -The Radiant Boost Vitamin C Cream." This is a powerful anti-aging Vitamin C cream base which nourishes, hydrates, protects skin while it reverses signs of aging. It contains 5 types of bioavailable self-stabilized Vitamin C and delivers 4 times more than the leading formulas in the market today. It has collagen stimulating benefits to firm and tighten the skin. It also brightens skin tone, giving a fresh and healthy skin glow. It has been clinically tested and its efficacy in diminishing melanin, collagen stimulation and reduction of free radical, resulting in highly effective UV protection. The online store will carry other high medical grade products for various skin issues.

Frances Cuento strongly believes in her personal philosophy on beauty as she says, "To be beautiful and joyful for all to behold, choose Radiant Beauty Skin Care Med Spa." Indeed, a thing of beauty is a joy forever.

Log on to www.radiantbeautymd.com. to learn more about their services.

“To be beautiful and joyful for all to behold, choose Radiant Beauty Skin Care Med Spa.”

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SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

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FOREVER (20)21

If 2020 was the year the world will never forget, then make 2021 the year we will always remember as we take the forecasted fashion trends and threads on to new heights. Now is the Time not just to rebound, but also to Astound.

Let our very own Founder & Publisher, Ms. M. show you how as she dazzles in the hottest forecasted looks of this bright and promising year!

LOOK # 1 PRETTY IN PINK.

Girl Boss in the ultimate Girl Color. Why not? Topping the list of both high-end designer fashion houses, mid-level couture lines in department stores and even online stores are suits in different hues of pink...

Ms. M’s TIPS: “Gone are the days when pink was finicky, when it was said to only suit a certain demographic. Back then, people thought that it was only for little girls, and that it is not something suitable when you mean business, with how today’s designers have cleverly put a twist to this favorite by applying it in serious couture that commands both attention and respect. At the end of the day, the use of this color denotes a woman in power; someone who knows her game, takes it seriously while also knowing how to have fun!”

I suggest the following when owning this trend: • Choose a tone of pink that will suit your skin tone. By this, I would say that you should stick to lighter pink shades until you become comfortable with the color.

Don’t jump right away to bright, neon tones until you’re confident enough that you can own it.

• Be confident. Times are a-changing and so should you. Fashion is also all about how you carry yourself, and so if you decide to go with a pink-tastic look for the day, make sure to feel good about yourself too because if you end up feeling timid about it, then it defeats the purpose. Pick out the pink-dominated look that suits you and dominate your day!

• THINK PINK. This is my most important advice – the color pink is so provocative, because it is all about an empowered femininity. When you don this particularcolored suit, make sure that you got the rest covered, because whatever is within will definitely show.

No need to be looking over your shoulder, because everyone will be looking on your shoulder with another hot 2021 trend, statement shoulder sleeves: dramatically puffy, large and eye-catching, you can be queen of the everyday runway if you wear this trend the right way!

Ms. M’s TIPS:

LOOK # 2 WEAR YOUR ART ON YOUR SLEEVE

“A fun, fashionable way to hide the holiday weight as your work your way to a slimmer You this year, this trend has really taken so many forms, and it’s great for everyday wear! It is Art in itself and it commands the right kind of attention. I just love how this look lets you be formal and playful at the same time!”

I suggest the following when owning this trend: • The point of focus is on the shoulders, but it doesn’t mean that you can just choose any shabby bottom to go with it. It has to jive with your jeans, slacks or skirt. Choose a hue and a cut for your bottom that will not battle with the drama, but instead enhance it.

• Sure, the dramatic form is the whole point, make sure that you still consider symmetry; if you don’t have wide shoulders, choose a more tame, less puffy sleeve, otherwise your head will look funny, and you don’t want to look like you’re in a Shakespearian play!

• If you intend to use a coat, then save this look for another day. This trend is meant to stand out on its own, so if you will hide it inside a coat or jacket then there is no point to it. Plus, it will create a weird hump inside your jacket or coat, so use this look when you can wear it without an outerwear.

SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

LOOK # 3 FLOWER POWER

Another ultra-feminine theme blooms this year! Floral prints are all the rage these days: from neon-colored tulips, to sunny yellows and shy pinkish blossoms, the flower motifs show no sign of wilting away!

Ms. M’s TIPS: “I absolutely love this trend because it’s something that I feel never goes out of style; it just keeps getting reinvented. Another great thing about it is that no matter what age, you can rock a floral motif look. In fact, it doesn’t just go beyond the boundary of age, but even of gender because this is something even the gentlemen can get away with. I would love to see my husband and sons in the right kind of floral ensemble; it is a look that can be both charming and refreshing.”

I suggest the following when owning this trend: • For starters go with more neutral floral prints. Don’t go neon blinding bright until you are comfortable with this look. Give yourself time to blossom when it comes to flowery prints.

• While this is a timeless look, it can also lead one to be outdated or even tacky.

Make sure that the floral prints make you look smart and not like one that you’d wear inside the house. Remember there is a fine line between floral nightgowns or dusters and smart floral prints on suits or sleek, elegant dresses. Be crisp, smart and sleep in floral. Don’t look like you’re about to go to bed.

• Be wary of overdoing it. If you’re wearing a heavily printed floral dress, make sure that you tone down everything else like your bag, shoes and accessories.

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LOOK # 4 Americas Sweat HEART.

Sweat suits have come a long way not just as a fashion trend but even as a symbol of affluence. Matching track suits will continue to dominate the second quarter of 2021 especially as the winter season comes to an end and come summertime, this look will soar to new heights! Especially with how rapidly the world is changing, suits are the way to go, enabling one to comfortably go from the office to a grocery run and even some family fun.

Ms. M’s TIPS: “This is a favorite of mine because they’re so easy to wear! It does not take much effort plus it is so comfortable! Both men and women can seize their days in fashionable track suits.

Plus, this ensemble gives me the chance to put my sporty sneakers or trainers and use my edgy handbags. A standout look that is as timely as it is trendy!” I suggest the following when owning this trend: • Don’t be lazy. Sure, it is the safe pick when you’re not in the mood to put the usual effort, but don’t go out in mismatched, unkempt sweats. Stay sleek and savvy as you rock this look.

• Match your hairstyle and accessories with this look. Since it gives an athletic vibe, go for footwear and accessories that will go with it; what makes it special is that it is functionable fashion, so don’t go donning killer stilettos if you’re going out for errands in your tracksuit, otherwise it would only defeat (or de-feet) the purpose.

• Remember that it is a very easy, breezy look that usually comes in two separate pieces, so if you are mixing and matching, make sure they jive.

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ME + CHOCOLATE = FOREVER

For the Love of Travel Another year of reeling from the rigors of the COVID-19 pandemic may spell additional travel restrictions worldwide, but who says that we cannot go on adventure? Now is the best time to take the little ones on a journey they will always treasure! All we need is undivided attention and endless imagination! Here are some of our top “Traveling

at Home” Tips:

Go on a Safari

Africa will have to wait. But now is the time for parents to tell their kids what a safari is all about, while letting them experience it right now! To go on this adventure, parents can do the following with their kids:

Watch documentaries involving safaris

Have a safari face painting party! Warning:

especially the animals to watch for.

things can get PURR-retty wild and fun!

Create a map of the continents, showing the majestic African con-

Hold your own at-home safari and wildlife conservation efforts by

tinent and its unique qualities. You can even cut them out into

caring for the family’s dogs and cats such as giving them a shower,

puzzle-like pieces that they can put together! This is the best way

and teaching them how to properly train them, instilling a sense of

to teaching them geography and let them travel the world in the

discipline that both your human and furry children can share!

comfort of your own home!

Explore the Amazon Rainforest!

Okay, even if the pandemic never happened, it is not really wise to travel into the world’s largest tropical rainforest which is also famous for its biodiversity! But we can still go into an Amazonian adventure (minus the piranhas, mosquitoes and deadly critters). You can do the following for this expedition: Teach your kids about new (and even dangerous creatures) starting with the critters below which are mostly endemic to the Amazon Jungle or Amazon River only: •

Amazonian Giant Centipede, aggressive and venomous critters that can grow to 12 inches long!

•

Black Caiman, the largest in the Alligator family!

•

The Brazilian Wandering Spider, aka the Banana Spider. Move over, tarantulas! These are bigger and their venom can cause paralysis or worse in seconds!

•

Bull shark. Yup, they are not only in the seas, but even in the Amazon River!

•

Piranhas – the kings of the Amazon River until their man-eater notoriety led to illegal trade beyond the Americas!

Take them to safe, nearby canyons and state parks for a memorable hike! This way, you can also hunt for spiders, centipedes and many other amazing creatures in the wild. Just don’t forget to maintain a safe distance socially, and from dangerous creatures you may find, such as spiders and rattlesnakes.

Plant your own little rainforest! Allow the little ones to pick out the seedlings or seeds and learn about gardening techniques together.

Your own flowers and vegetable patches? It may not be the Amazon but it surely is Amazing!

Teach them about Meditation as early as now! It is not so complicated; all it really is are breathing techniques that enable one to focus that leads to more productivity! It also helps relieve stress because hey, children get stressed too!

Fun Fact: Did you know that the Amazon Rainforest produces 20% of the world’s oxygen? You don’t have to travel far for this… just pick a nice and comfy space and breathe in all the goodness today!

Cupid’s Concoction A h , t h e r e g o e s t h at l i t t l e c h e r u b , p o p p i n g ‘ r o u n d F e b r u a r y a g a i n , a l o n g w i t h s w e e t, s i l ly y e t c at c h y r h y t h m s t h at g o , “ s t u p i d C u p i d , s t o p p i c k i n g o n m e … ” Y o u w o n ’ t b e a b l e t o r e s i s t M s . M ’ s d e l i g h t f u l V a l e n t i n e c o c k ta i l , t h e “ C u p i d ’ s C o n c o c t i o n , ” i n h o n o r o f C u p i d , t h e a n c i e n t R o m a n g o d o f l o v e . I t o n ly ta k e s 3 m i n u t e s ; s ta r t b y p r e pa r i n g t h e f o l l o w i n g ( y i e l d s 2 s e r v i n g s ) : • • • • • • • •

6 ounces white cranberry juice 4 ounces lemon lime soda 2 ounces vodka 2 ounces grenadine 4 ounces simple syrup or honey 4 ta b l e s p o o n s g r a n u l at e d r e d s p r i n k l e s A variet y of red fruits: strawberries, cherries and raspberries are recommended Ice cubes

Instructions: • • • •

P o u r t h e s i m p l e s y r u p o r h o n e y i n t o a f l at p l at e t h at i s b i g g e r t h a n t h e g l a s s t h at t h e c o c k ta i l w i l l b e s e r v e d i n . I n a s e pa r at e p l at e , p l a c e s p r i n k l e s o n t h at p l at e . P l a c e t h e r i m i n t h e s i m p l e s y r u p a n d t h e n in the sprinkles until the rim is lined.

Fill cup with ice and then pour in the white cranberry juice, vodka, and grenadine, T o p w i t h r e d f r u i t s o r s e t o n t h e r i m f o r a d d e d h e i g h t a n d t e x t u r e . S e r v e i m m e d i at e ly.

For those who would be bringing your very own lit tle Cupids along to your Valentine’s dinner and would w a n t t o m a k e s u r e t h at t h e y t o o e n j o y t h i s s a m e d e l i c i o u s m i x , a l l y o u n e e d t o d o i s r e p l i c at e t h e s a m e s t e p s M I N U S t h e V o d k a … a n d V o i l a ! I n s ta n t V a l e n t i n e ’ s a f fa i r t h at e v e n t h e l i t t l e o n e s c a n e n j o y

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“My Cherry Amour” This non-alcoholic drink will get you singing Stevie Wonder’s hit song, “My Cherie Amour,” and get you danci n g t h e T w i s t at t h e s a m e t i m e , t h a n k s t o t h e f i z z ! M s . M ’ s s i g n at u r e “ M y C h e r r y A m o u r , ” i s a n o n - a l c o h o l i c f i z z y d r i n k t h at e v e n t h e y o u n g o n e s c a n e n j o y; i t ’ s y o u r fa v o r i t e c h e r r y d r i n k w i t h a t w i s t… o r a f i z z !

S ta r t b y p r e pa r i n g t h e f o l l o w i n g ( y i e l d s 4 s e r v i n g s ) : • • • •

4 c u p s o f f l a v o r e d s e lt z e r . Y o u c a n c h o o s e w h at e v e r y o u r fa v o r i t e f l a v o r i s , b u t M s . M r e c o m m e n d s b l a c k cherry fl avored fiz z!

8 tsp juice from the bottled, preserved cherries 4 c u p s o f j u i c e . Y o u m ay u s e g r a p e o r a p p l e j u i c e , b u t M s . M r e c o m m e n d s c r a n b e r r y j u i c e And of course, Maraschino cherries! You can pile as much as you’d like, but we’d recommend 2-3 pieces j u s t t o g a r n i s h o r p l a c e at o p t h e s t r a w o r t h e g l a s s r i m . Y o u c a n a l s o u s e a d d i t i o n a l p i e c e s o f c h e r r y a s s i n k e r s , d e p e n d i n g o n y o u r p r e f e r e n c e . D o n ’ t g o o v e r b o a r d , t h o u g h , f o r s i n k e r s , w e o n ly r e c o m m e n d n o m o r e t h a n 5 p i e c e s s o a s t o n o t ta k e a w ay f r o m t h e fa c t t h at t h i s i s m e a n t t o b e s i p p e d .

N o w y o u c a n m a k e t h i s f u n , f r o t h y, fa m i ly- f r i e n d ly d r i n k !

• • • •

S ta r t w i t h t h e 8 t s p j u i c e f r o m t h e b o t t l e d c h e r r i e s , l e t i t s e t t l e at t h e b o t t o m o f t h e p u n c h b o w l o f t h e f o u r s e pa r at e g l a s s e s . T h e n m i x i n t h e s p l a s h o f j u i c e . S t i r w e l l .

A d d t h e i c e c u b e s a n d t h e n t o p i t a l l o f f w i t h t h e s e lt z e r a n d s e e i t f i z z !

P u t i n t h e c h e r r y s i n k e r s o r g a r n i s h t h e s i d e s a n d t h e m o c k ta i l s t r a w o r d o i t a l l !

M a k e s u r e t o s e r v e w i t h i n m i n u t e s , t o e n s u r e t h at t h e f i z z f r o m t h e s e lt z e r r e m a i n s s t r o n g , a s t h i s i s w h at g i v e s t h e d r i n k t h at e x t r a t w i s t !

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Mint to be Ms. M adds her own special twist to the popular “virgin mint mojito,” a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage.

Ta n g y, s a v v y, s w e e t, a n d a l l t h e s e n s at i o n s , h e r e i s a n o t h e r t r e at t h at c l e a n s e s t h e pa l at e a n d c o m p l e m e n t s h e a r t y, h o m e m a d e d i s h e s t h i s s e a s o n o f h e a r t s ! P r e pa r i n g t h e f o l l o w i n g ( y i e l d s 2 ta l l g l a s s o r m a s o n j a r servings): • • • • • • • • • • •

2 tbsp lime juice 1 tbsp honey or basic syrup 24 mint leaves C h o o s e a g u s h e r . O p t i o n s a r e S p r i t e , s pa r k l i n g w at e r , c l u b s o d a , o r g i n g e r a l e .

1 lime, sliced in half (a half for each of the drink glasses) Ice cubes S ta r t b y g e t t i n g t h e g l a s s o r m a s o n j a r s , a n d t h e n p u t i n t h e l i m e j u i c e , s l i c e d l i m e s , s y r u p o r h o n e y.

Before adding in the mint leaves, crush or muddle the leaves to bring out the zest and most of all , rel e a s e t h e e s s e n t i a l o i l s . D o n ’ t o v e r d o i t, m a x i m u m o f 1 2 l e a v e s o n ly p e r g l a s s o r j a r a s i t c a n c a u s e y o u r c o n c o c t i o n t o t u r n b i t t e r a n d u n p l e a s a n t. L e t i t s i t f o r a b o u t 2 0 s e c o n d s .

Fill the glasses with ice, and then pour in your Gusher. Ms. M recommends Sprite as it complements the f u s i o n o f f l a v o r b e s t a n d a l s o g i n g e r a l e , f o r a h e a lt h i e r m i x .

Garnish with the lemon slices and a mint leaf on the side. Serve and enjoy!

T o s p i c e t h i n g s u p, y o u c a n a l s o s p i k e t h i s d r i n k b y s i m p ly a d d i n g 2 ta b l e s p o o n s o f y o u r fa v o r i t e v o d k a , a l o n g with 2 teaspoons of lemon or lime juice per glass or mason jar before you pour in the gusher. Sprite and club s o d a m i n g l e b e s t w i t h v o d k a . D o n ’ t f o r g e t t o g a r n i s h o n e s i d e o f t h e c o c k ta i l g l a s s w i t h i o d i z e d s a lt a l o n g w i t h t h e l e m o n s l i c e a n d m i n t l e a f.

46

A Pa s s i o n f o r Pa s ta !

M s . M ’s To p 3 p a s t a r e c i p e s w i l l n o t j u s t h av e y o u r g u e s t s s m a c k i n g t h e i r l i p s a n d s ay i n g “A m o r e ; ” t h e y w i l l a l s o b e a s k i n g fo r M o r e !

We fe a t u r e t h r e e d i f fe r e nt t y p e s o f p a s t a : t h i c k , f l a t a n d l o n g s t r a n d s o f carbonara, wide and f lat strips of lasagna and bow-tie shaped pieces of fa r f a l l e !

• Ro m a n c e y o u r t a s t e b u d s : C a s a n o va O y s t e r C a r b o n a r a • Only for you r Sweetheart: Heart-sh aped Lasagna • Fa r f a l l e i n l o v e w i t h c l a s s i c B a ke d Fa r fa l l e P a s t a w i t h M o z z a r e l l a H e r e ’s h o w t o m a ke t h e s e t h r e e e a s y a n d d e l i c i o u s p a s t a d i n n e r i d e a s t h i s Va l e n t i n e ’s d ay …

CASANOVA OYSTER CARBONARA G i a c o m o C a s a n o va wa s a n I t a l i a n a d v e nt u r e r, a u t h o r a n d e v e n a n o u t l aw f r o m I t a l y, b u t h e i s m o s t k n o w n a s a l o v e r ! I n s p i r e d b y C a s a n o va , w e t h r o w i n a p o p u l a r a p h r o d i s i a c , o y s t e r s fo r o n e u n fo r g e t t a b l e g o o d m e a l !

T h i s r e c i p e s e r v e s 4 a n d y o u w i l l n e e d t o p r e pa r e t h e f o l l o w i n g i n g r e d i e n t s : • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

A b o x o f f e t t u c c i n i pa s ta ( a b o u t 1 2 o z . ) 2 c u p s o f a l l- p u r p o s e f l o u r K o s h e r o r H i m a l aya n p i n k s a lt Fresh cracked black pepper O l i v e o i l f o r f r y i n g , a b o u t 3 ta b l e s p o o n s 8 strips of dried and smoked artisanal quality bacon cut to an inch long 1 s h a l l o t, f i n e ly d i c e d 2 cloves of garlic, crushed and sliced 6 e g g s b e at e n a n d s e a s o n e d w i t h a d a s h o f p e p p e r a n d a p i n c h o f s a lt 2 c u p s o f b r e a d c r u m b s a l s o s e a s o n e d w i t h s a lt a n d p e p p e r 2 large egg yolks ¾ cup of chicken stock G r at e d z e s t o f 1 l e m o n 3 o z o f Pa r m i g i a n o - R e g g i a n o c h e e s e 1 4 - 1 5 p i e c e s o f s h u c k e d , d r u n k L o u i s i a n a o y s t e r s . G e t t h e s e f r e s h o y s t e r s d r u n k b y l i g h t ly m a r i n at i n g each piece in liqueur (no more than 5 drops of vodka each). Other excellent options are juniper gin or martini.

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S ta r t b y ta k i n g a b o w l a n d c o m b i n i n g t h e f l o u r w i t h 1 0 g r i n d s ( 3 p i n c h e s ) o f p e p p e r a n d 2 t e a s p o o n s o f s a lt.

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P r e h e at t h e o i l o v e r m e d i u m h e at t o a b o u t 3 5 0 d e g r e e s Fa h r e n h e i t. S i m u lta n e o u s ly c o o k t h e pa s ta i n a l a r g e p o t o f s a lt e d w at e r w i t h a f e w d r o p s o f o l i v e o i l a n d b r i n g t o a s i m m e r , t h e n p r e pa r e t h e r e s t.

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R e n d e r ( t u r n t h e fat i n t o o i l ) t h e b a c o n s l o w ly i n a s k i l l e t o v e r m e d i u m h e at a n d t h e n a d d t h e s h a l l o t and garlic, cooking in the bacon oil for no more than 2 minutes.

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S h a k e e x c e s s l i q u e u r a n d l i q u i d f r o m t h e o y s t e r b u t k e e p t h e m m o i s t. P l a c e t h e m i n t h e f l o u r a n d c o at c o m p l e t e ly. N e x t, d i p e a c h p i e c e i n t h e b e at e n e g g a n d p l a c e t h e m i n t h e b r e a d c r u m b s , c o at i n g e a c h p i e c e c o m p l e t e ly.

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P r e pa r e t h e o i l t o d e e p ly f r y e a c h o y s t e r p i e c e u n t i l t h e y t u r n c r i s p y a n d g o l d e n b r o w n . S e t a s i d e o n a pa p e r t o w e l a n d s e a s o n w i t h s a lt m i l d ly.

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W h i s k t h e e g g y o k s a n d c o m b i n e t h e c h i c k e n s t o c k t h e c o m b i n at i o n o f o y s t e r z e s t a n d l i q u e u r .

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R e v e r t t o t h e pa s ta ; r e m o v e f r o m i t s s i m m e r i n g s tat e a n d t h e n p l a c e i t i n t h e s k i l l e t w i t h t h e b a c o n , t h e n a d d t h e l i q u e u r a n d y o l k m i x t u r e . C o o k t h i s c o n c o c t i o n o v e r m e d i u m l o w h e at u n t i l i t t h i c k e n s i n t o f i n e s a u c e , c o at i n g t h e pa s ta .

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A d d s o m e g r at e d Pa r m i g i a n o - R e g g i a n o c h e e s e , c a r e f u l ly t o s s i n g a n d n o t s t i r r i n g i n s o a s t o n o t b r e a k t h e s o f t pa s ta i n t o p i e c e s . T h r o w i n a d a s h o f b l a c k p e p p e r .

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L a s t ly, p l a c e t h e pa s ta i n a b o w l , w i t h t h e f r i e d o y s t e r s a r o u n d i t. T o p i t w i t h t h e r e s t o f t h e g r at e d Pa r m i g i a n o - R e g g i a n o c h e e s e a n d t h e n t o p w i t h t h e g r at e d l e m o n z e s t.

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Serve warm and enjoy!

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HEART SHAPED LASAGNA

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T o a c h i e v e t h at s p e c i a l h e a r t s h a p e , u s e a 1 0 - c u p h e a r t- s h a p e b u n d t pa n S ta r t b y p r e h e at i n g t h e o v e n t o 3 5 0 d e g r e e s Fa h r e n h e i t, a n d t h e n ta k e a l a r g e p o t o f s a lt e d w at e r w i t h a f e w d r o p s o f o l i v e o i l t o c o o k t h e l a s a gna noodles until it achieves the al dente texture, which is cooked well, b u t n o t t o o s o f t.

D r a i n t h e n o o d l e s a n d s p r e a d t h e m f l at o n a b a k i n g s h e e t o r t r ay t o d r a i n t h e m o f f t h e l i q u i d c o m p l e t e ly.

T a k i n g a n o t h e r p o t, h e at i t o v e r m e d i u m h e at, a d d i n g i n t h e o n i o n s , s t i r r i n g i t g e n t ly f o r n o m o r e t h a n 5 m i n u t e s , a n d t h e n a d d i n t h e g a r l i c a n d o r e g a n o f o r a n a d d i t i o n a l 2 m i n u t e s o n ly. T h e n a d d i n t h e b e e f, 2 t e a s p o o n s o f s a lt a n d b l a c k p e p p e r , m a k i n g s u r e t h at t h e b e e f s t r i p s w i l l not form bunches.

B r i n g t o a s i m m e r a n d t h e n a d d t h e t o m at o pa s t e w h i l e s t i r r i n g c o n t i n u o u s ly. A f t e r a m i n u t e , a d d i n t h e t o m at o e s , s u g a r , w at e r a n d a n o t h e r d a s h o f s a lt a n d p e p p e r , s t i r r i n g u n t i l t h e s a u c e t h i c k e n s .

T a k e a n o t h e r c l e a n b o w l f o r t h e c h e e s e s - r i c o t ta , Pa r m e s a n a n d m o z z a r e l l a , a l o n g w i t h t h e pa r s l e y, e g g s a n d c o m b i n e i t a lt o g e t h e r , m i x i n g w e l l y e t g e n t ly.

R e v e r t t o t h e n o o d l e s w h i c h s h o u l d b e d r i e d b y n o w , a n d c u t i t i n a h a l f c r o s s w i s e m a n n e r , a n d t h e n ta k e t h e b u n d t pa n , l i n i n g t h e b o t t o m w i t h 4 o f t h e h a l f - c u t n o o d l e s , c a r e f u l ly p l a c i n g 2 p i e c e s a l o n g t h e s t r a i g h t line and 2 along the arches.

L ay 1 2 w h o l e n o o d l e s i n t h e b o t t o m o f t h e pa n , s l i g h t ly o v e r l a p p i n g a n d m a k i n g s u r e t h e e n t i r e b u n d t pa n i s c o v e r e d a n d t h e h e a r t s h a p e i s a p pa r e n t.

P o u r i n a c u p o f t h e w a r m m e at s a u c e a n d t h e n t o p 1 c u p o f t h e r i c o t ta m i x t u r e o v e r t h e s a u c e . T o p a g a i n w i t h 4 n o o d l e h a lv e s a n d r e p e at t h e pa s ta a n d m e at m i x t u r e l ay e r i n g u n t i l i t r e a c h e s t h e t o p.

F i n a l ly, f o l d t h e e d g e s o f t h e o v e r h a n g i n g l a s a g n a p i e c e s , m o v i n g t o w a r d s t h e c e n t e r t o c o m p l e t e ly c o v e r t h e h o l e i n t h e c e n t e r .

B a k e i n t h e o v e n u n t i l i t t u r n s g o l d e n b r o w n , f o r n o m o r e t h a n 4 5 m i n utes.

L e t i t c o o l f o r a b o u t 1 0 m i n u t e s a n d t h e n i n v e r t t h e pa n o n t o a c u t t i n g b o a r d o r t h e f i n a l d i s h . R e h e at s o m e o f t h e r e m a i n i n g s a u c e a n d p o u r i n t o the center of the heart a few minutes before serving.

Putting in the Art in H e a r t , a n d S av o r i n F l av o r, t h i s exq u i s i t e dish is not just pleasing to the palate, but oh so d e l i g ht f u l t o t h e e y e s … h e r e ’s h o w t o m a ke i t …

P r e pa r e t h e f o l l o w i n g ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 p o u n d s o f g r o u n d b e e f K o s h e r s a lt a n d f r e s h ly

ground black pepper Tw o ta b l e s p o o n s o f o l i v e oil 3 c l o v e s o f g a r l i c , f i n e ly minced O n e 1 6 - o u n c e b o x l a s a g n a noodles 1 large onion, chopped

e v e n ly 2 t e a s p o o n s o f d r i e d o r e g a no ½ c u p o f c h o p p e d f l at- l e a f t y p e o f f r e s h pa r s l e y T o m at o pa s t e a b o u t h a l f a cup or 6-ounce can T o m at o pa s t e , 1 ½ c u p o r 2 8 ounces 2 t e a s p o o n s o f b r o w n s u g ar 1 2 o u n c e s o f R i c o t ta c h e e s e

N o w , y o u r l o v e d o n e s , e s p e c i a l ly y o u r S w e e t h e a r t c a n s a v o r t h e g o o d n e s s o f y o u p o u r i n g y o u r h e a r t o u t t h i s one special night!

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B A K E D PA S TA FA R FA L L E WITH MOZARELLA

Making this delicious dish is as easy as putting on a bowtie! The recipe bel o w i s g o o d fo r 4 g e n e r o u s s e r v i n g s . F i r s t , p r e p a r e t h e fo l l o w i n g i n g r e d i e nt s : • • • • • • • • • •

H a l f a p o u n d o f fa r fa l l e , a l s o k n o w n a s b o w -t i e pa s ta 1 c l o v e o f g a r l i c , f i n e ly m i n c e d 1 t e a s p o o n o f o l i v e o i l A c a n o f p u r e e d , w h o l e p e e l e d t o m at o e s H a l f t e a s p o o n o f o r e g a n o , p r e f e r a b ly d r i e d ¼ t e a s p o o n o f s u g a r C o a r s e o r r o c k s a lt 4 o u n c e s o f c h i c k e n s a u s a g e s ( a b o u t 3 p i e c e s ) c u t i n t o b i t e - s i z e d p i e c e s ½ c u p o f g r at e d f r e s h Pa r m e s a n c h e e s e 1 0 o u n c e s o f m o z z a r e l l a c h e e s e ( r o u g h ly 2 c u p s ) , c u t i n t o h a l f - i n c h c u b e s

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S ta r t b y p r e h e at i n g t h e o v e n t o 4 0 0 d e g r e e s Fa h r e n h e i t. T h e n b e g i n c o o k i n g t h e pa s ta . O n c e i t c o m e s t o a b o i l a n d h a s t h at a l d e n t e t e x t u r e , d r a i n a n d s e t a s i d e . M a k e s u r e t h at t h e pa s ta i s n o t t o o s o f t o r overcooked.

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P r e h e at t h e o v e n t o 4 0 0 d e g r e e s a n d g e t a l a r g e s a u c e pa n a n d h e at t h e o l i v e o i l .

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A d d g a r l i c a n d s a u t é f o r n o m o r e t h a n o n e m i n u t e , o r u n t i l f r a g r a n t a n d t h e g a r l i c t u r n s m i l d g o l d e n b r o w n . T h e n a d d t h e o r e g a n o , t o m at o e s a n d s u g a r . B r i n g i t t o a b o i l a n d r e d u c e i t t o a s i m m e r t o b r e a k u p t h e t o m at o e s a n d t h i c k e n t h e s a u c e .

•

A d d s a lt t o t h e t h i c k s a u c e a n d s t i r g e n t ly. T h e n a d d t h e pa s ta , s a u s a g e a n d h a l f o f t h e m o z z a r e l l a c h e e s e . T o s s t o c o m b i n e o n ly, d o n o t s t i r s o a s t o n o t c r u s h t h e pa s ta .

•

T r a n s f e r t o a b a k i n g d i s h a n d t o p i t w i t h t h e r e m a i n i n g m o z z a r e l l a a n d Pa r m e s a n c h e e s e b e f o r e p u t t i n g in the oven.

•

B a k e f o r n o m o r e t h a n 1 5 m i n u t e s o r u n t i l t h e d i s h i s b u b b ly a n d s l i g h t ly b r o w n .

•

Cool for a minute then serve.

W at c h y o u r fa m i ly a n d g u e s t fa r - fa l l e i n l o v e w i t h e a c h b i t e o f t h i s d e l e c ta b l e d i s h w i t h r i c h , g o o e y c h e e s e !

M E AT Y O U R M AT C H O f s e r e n a d e s a n d m a r i n at e s … h e r e a r e T W O p e r f e c t s t e a k i d e a s t h at w i l l m a k e y o u a n d y o u r d at e ’ s h e a r t s i n g ; u n i q u e f l a v o r s s e t t o r o m a n c e t h e pa l at e w i t h a t r u ly A s i a n t w i s t t o a t r a d i t i o n a l d i s h !

T h e M i s o M a r i n at e d F l at I r o n S t e a k w i t h Y u z u K o s h o Y o u w o n ’ t “ m i s o ” a b e at w i t h t h i s f l av o r f u l s t e a k m a r i n at e d w i t h E a s t A s i a n f l a i r : M i s o , Y u z u k o s h o , S a k e , W a s a b i a n d M i r i n … p u t y o u r h e a r t at e a s e w i t h t h i s m i n d - b l o w i n g J a pa n e s e i n s p i r e d d i s h …

You’ll need: ½ c u p M i s o pa s t e W a s a b i pa s t e i n t u b e 3 tbsp sake ½ cup mirin ½ cup brown sugar y u z u k o s h o , ( a c i t r u s p e p p e r pa s t e , a v a i l a b l e i n m o s t A s i a n a n d o n l i n e g r o c e r y s t o r e s ) 4 p i n c h e s o f H i m a l aya n s a lt 4 s l i c e s o f f l at i r o n s t r i p s t e a k ( y o u m ay a l s o u s e f l a n k s t e a k ) Optional: butter for frying • • • • • • • •

S i m p ly c o m b i n e t h e s a k e a n d m i r i n w i t h t h e b r o w n s u g a r u n t i l i t i s w e l l- d i s s o lv e d .

A d d t h e w a s a b i pa s t e , e m p t y i n g a b o u t h a l f o f t h e s m a l l t u b e , o r a b o u t 1 ½ ta b l e s p o o n , d e p e n d i n g o n y o u r preferred level of spiciness.

L e t i t s i t f o r a c o u p l e o f m i n u t e s , t h e n p r e pa r e t h e s t r i p s o f s t e a k a n d t h e n p u t a p i n c h o f s a lt i n e a c h piece.

A d d a d a s h o f y u z u k o s h o . S e t i t a s i d e f o r 3 - 5 m i n u t e s .

A d d t h e m i s o pa s t e i n t h e e a r l i e r c o n c o c t i o n a n d s t i r v e r y w e l l u n t i l i t i s s m o o t h a n d c r e a m y i n t e x t u r e .

P u t i n t h e s t r i p s o f s t e a k i n t h e m a r i n a d e .

W a i t f o r 1 - 2 h o u r s a n d t h e n f r y w i t h s a lt e d b u t t e r o r g r i l l . A d d a n o t h e r l i g h t d a s h o f y u z u k o s h o w h e n it is almost done, cooked depending on your preference.

S e r v e h o t.

52

I gotcha baby with Steak Kombucha We a d d a n o t h e r O r i e nt a l t w i s t t o s t e a k w i t h ko mb u c h a t e a , a fe r m e nt e d a n d lightly e f fe r v e s c e nt tea drink, now growing in popularit y th anks to its many health benefits. It is said t o b e b e n e f i c i a l fo r t h o s e battling c a n c e r, diabetes, gout, hemorrhoids and more. Most of all, it is said t o b e g o o d fo r t h e H e a r t !

W h a t a p e r fe c t i n g r e d i e nt in this Season of Hearts!

S T E A K M A R I N A D E P R E PA R AT I O N : P l a c e t h e s t e a k i n a l a r g e r e s e a l a b l e b a g a n d t h e n s e a s o n i t w i t h a f e w p i n c h e s o f k o s h e r s a lt, a n d s e t i t a s i d e a s y o u p r e pa r e t h e m a r i n a d e a n d t h e n d o t h e f o l l o w i n g s t e p s : •

T h e r e c i p e b e l o w s e r v e s 4 . S ta r t w i t h p r e pa r i n g t h e f o l l o w i n g i n gredients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 c u p o f c l a s s i c k o m b u c h a tea (ginger-lemon variant is also good) 3 ta b l e s p o o n s o f l i g h t s o y sauce 3 ta b l e s p o o n s o f r i c e v i n e gar, unseasoned 3 c l o v e s o f g a r l i c , m i n c e d H a l f a c u p o f o l i v e o i l A teaspoon of red pepper

flakes K o s h e r s a lt 1 ta b l e s p o o n v e g e ta b l e o i l T h i n ly s l i c e d s h a l l o t, 1

large piece or 2 small pieces 6 P e r s i a n c u c u m b e r s 1 ta b l e s p o o n o f S r i r a c h a

s a u c e ( G o c h u j a n g i s a n a lt e r n at i v e ) S e a s a lt f l a k e s 2 p o u n d s o f s k i r t s t e a k , c u t into 4 even pieces H a l f c u p o f b u t t e r t o c o o k the steak 1 0 o u n c e s o f s h r e d d e d m o z zarella (2 ½ cup) ¾ c u p o f g r at e d pa r m e s a n 2 l a r g e e g g s

•

•

I n a m e d i u m b o w l , w h i s k t h e k o m b u c h a , s o y s a u c e , r i c e v i n e g a r , g a r l i c , o i l and red pepper flakes together.

W h e n s m o o t h , p o u r h a l f o f t h e c o n c o c t i o n i n t o t h e b a g w i t h t h e s t e a k a n d s e a l i m m e d i at e ly, p r e s s i n g o u t t h e a i r a n d m a s s a g i n g t h e b a g t o d i s p e r s e t h e m a r i n a d e . W a i t f o r 2 0 m i n u t e s i n r o o m t e m p e r at u r e , b u t i f r e f r i g e r at e d , a l l o w u p t o 2 h o u r s o n ly.

T a k e t h e r e m a i n i n g h a l f o f t h e m a r i n a d e a n d a d d t h e s l i c e d s h a l l o t s . S e t aside for a few minutes.

C U C U M B E R S A L A D P R E PA R AT I O N : G at h e r t h e c u c u m b e r s o n t o a c h o p p i n g b o a r d and crush them using a rolling pin or a large knife. Make sure to be gentle so a s t o n o t s q u a s h t h e m c o m p l e t e ly, l e a v i n g b i t e - s i z e d , s m a s h e d c h u n k s o n ly.

• •

P u t t h e c u c u m b e r s i n a b o w l a n d a d d a p i n c h o f s a lt a n d l e t i t d r y f o r a few minutes.

T o s s t h e m a r i n a d e w i t h t h e s h a l l o t s o n t o t h e b o w l o f c u c u m b e r s . A d d sriracha or gochujang sauce, cover and then set aside.

COOKING & SERVING • • •

C o o k t h e s t e a k i n t w o b at c h e s s o a s t o n o t c r o w d t h e pa n . A l s o m a k e s u r e t h at t h e b u t t e r d o e s n o t b u r n . W at c h c l o s e ly u n t i l t h e s t e a k p i e c e s t u r n golden brown on both sides.

O n c e t h e l e v e l o f d o n e n e s s i s a c h i e v e d , t r a n s f e r t h e s t e a k t o a c u t t i n g board and let it rest for 8-10 minutes.

S l i c e t h e s t e a k i n t o h a n g i n g t e n d e r s t r i p s a n d t h e n s p r i n k l e a b i t o f f l a k y s e a s a lt a s y o u s e r v e i t o v e r t h e s m a s h e d c u c u m b e r s a l a d . I t a l s o goes very well with simple steamed rice.

N o w y o u c a n i n v i t e e v e r y o n e o v e r t o t h e d i n n e r ta b l e b y s ay i n g ,

“Kom” and get it!”

WE ARE M O ST A L I V E WHEN WE’RE I N LOV E

W H AT ’ S YO U R L OV E L A N G U AG E ?

With over 13 million copies sold since being publ i s h e d i n 1 9 9 2 , D r. G a r y C h a p m a n’s b e s t - s e l l i n g book, “The Five Love Languages: How to express H e a r t fe l t C o m m i t m e nt t o y o u r M a t e ” h a s n o w become a widely respected and adhered-to pillar of tenets when it comes to all things Love.

The simplicity and practicality of the principles of the Five Love Languages along with its creat i v e p r e s e nt a t i o n m a ke s i t r e l e va nt a n d a p p e a l i n g across generation s, cultures and demographics.

T h e F i ve L o ve L a n g u a g e s a r e d e s c r i b e d a s fo l l o w s : •

Wo r d s o f A f f i r m a t i o n – t h i s p e r t a i n s t o those who are all about giving and receiving e n c o u r a g e m e nt o r a f f i r m a t i o n t o t h e i r l o v e d ones. The people who cling to this Language ex p r e s s t h e i r fe e l i n g s i n b o t h v e r b a l a n d n o n - v e r b a l a c t i o n s . T h e y s h y away w h e n t h e i r e f fo r t s a r e n o t a p p r e c i a t e d o r r e c o g n i z e d .

•

P h y s i c a l To u c h – t h i s i s t h e s i g n a t u r e o f those who show how much they care through touch. The sense of touch is the first to dev e l o p a m o n g i n fa nt s a n d t h e l a s t s e n s e t o g o upon demise. This is why “touch therapy” h as become a ver y popular practice among mothe r s d u r i n g p r e g n a n c y a n d d e l i v e r y. T h i s L a n guage is all about hugs, kisses, cuddling and o t h e r t o u c h y - fe e l y way s o f s h o w i n g l o v e . T h e opposite of this is physical abuse and neglect.

•

Re c e i v i n g G i f t s – w h o d o e s n’ t l o v e t h i s p a r t i c u l a r L o v e L a n g u a g e ? T h i s i s fo r t h o s e w h o t u r n t o m a t e r i a l g e n e r o s i t y w h e n i t c o m e s t o ex p r e s s i n g t h e i r l o v e .

They appreciate receiving tangible gifts and shower their loved ones with the s a m e . Fo r g e t t i n g s p e c i a l o c c a s i o n s a n d d e l i b e r a t e l y w i t h h o l d i n g m a t e r i a l g i f t s e v e n w h e n o n e c a n a f fo r d s u c h a d v e r s e l y a f fe c t s t h o s e w h o c h o o s e t h i s l a n g u a g e .

•

Q u a l i t y T i m e – t h i s o n e i s a p p l i c a b l e t o c o u p l e s , a n d a l s o fo r p a r e nt - c h i l d r e l a t i o n s h i p s . T h i s L o v e L a n g u a g e m a ke s i t e a s y fo r t h o s e w h o a d h e r e t o i t , t o c u t d i s t r a c t i o n s a n d w h o l l y fo c u s o n t h e o n e t h e y l o v e . I t ’s a l l a b o u t s i m p l e , s p e c i a l m o m e nt s l i ke a wa l k i n t h e p a r k , d o i n g c h o r e s t o g e t h e r, a s l o n g a s t h e fo c u s i s o n l y o n e a c h o t h e r. D e f i n i t e l y, d i s t r a c t i o n i s a m a j o r d e t r i m e nt t o t h i s p a r t i c u l a r l o v e l a n g u a g e .

•

A c t s o f S e r v i c e – a n o t h e r o n e t h a t t r av e r s e s b e y o n d r o m a nt i c r e l a t i o n s h i p , t h i s l o v e l a n g u a g e c a n a l s o a p p l y t o t h e ex t e n d e d fa m i l y a n d va l u e d m e mb e r s o f t h e c o m m u n i t y.

H e r e , t h e “ g i v e r ” i s a l l a b o u t l i g ht e n i n g o t h e r p e o p l e ’s l o a d . I t ’s a l l a b o u t c h a r i t y a n d s u p p o r t a n d c a n r a n g e f r o m a c t s a s s i m p l e a s c a r r y i n g a n o t h e r ’s g r o c e r y b a g s t o r e s p o n d i n g e f fe c t i v e l y d u r i n g a n e m e r g e n c y. O n t h e o p p o s i t e o f t h i s s p e c t r u m w o u l d b e a p a t h y o r l a c k o f c o n c e r n , e s p e c i a l l y w h e n o t h e r s a r e fa c e d w i t h a d i f f i c u l t s i t u a t i o n .

TA K E T H E L OV E L A N G U AG E QU I Z !

S e a s o n o f L o v e , w e w i l l h e l p y o u d i s c o v e r y o u r L o v e L a n g u a g e . We h o p e t h a t t h i s c a n h e l p y o u e n h a n c e y o u r r e l a t i o n s h i p s w i t h y o u r s i g n i f i c a nt o t h e r, y o u r c h i l d r e n , p a r e nt s , s i b l i n g s a n d c l o s e f r i e n d s . S i m p l y t a ke t h e q u i z b e l o w, a n s w e r a s h o n e s t l y a s p o s s i b l e a n d w e h o p e t h a t y o u c a n e mb r a c e a n d e n h a n c e t h e way y o u s h o w l o v e a n d l i g ht t o t h o s e n e a r e s t a n d d e a r e s t t o y o u .

D I S C L A I M E R : T h i s q u i z i s d e s i g n e d s o l e l y f o r e n t e r t a i n m e n t p u r p o s e s o n l y, b a s e d o n t h e w r i t e r’s interpretation of the Five Love Languages. It does not make certified claims, and neither is it intended to ascertain equivalence to or replace professional clinical, medical and psychological assessment.

O n a l o v e l y, l a z y, c a r e f r e e S a t u r d ay m o r n i n g , y o u w o u l d b e : • • • • •

Vo l u n t e e r i n g i n a h o m e l e s s s h e l t e r o r c o l l e c t i n g d o n a t i o n s f o r t h e l e s s f o r t u n a t e Going on a hike with your special one Doing groceries and then preparing for an extra special brunch for the family Enjoying one-on-one hot tub complete with bubbles and scented candles Starting a movie marathon with your loved ones early; right after breakfast and coffee!

Yo u r D r e a m C a r e e r w o u l d b e …

• • • • •

An FBI Agent An Entrepreneur with a thriving self-made business H e a d o f R e t a i l o r M e r c h a n d i s i n g o f a To p D e s i g n H o u s e A Fabulous Fashion Designer A Te a c h e r o r G u i d a n c e C o u n s e l o r

I f y o u w e r e g i v e n m o n e y t o h o l i d ay o n t w o s p e c i f i c l o c a t i o n f o r a w e e k , w h e r e w o u l d you go?

• • • • •

Machu Picchu, Peru B a l i , I n d o n e s i a P a r i s , F r a n c e Bangkok, Thailand M a l d i v e s

and and and and and

Easter Island, Chile Kerala, India N e w Yo r k C i t y, U S A Budapest, Hungar y The United Kingdom

57

The hit tv series and star that you like or can relate with the most in this list would be…

• • • • •

G r e y ’s A n a t o m y a n d E l l e n P o m p e o a n d P a t r i c k D e m p s e y G i l m o r e G i r l s a n d A l e x i s B l e d e l a n d M i l o Ve n t i m i g l i a Gossip Girl and Blake Lively and Penn Badgley The Client List with Jennifer Love Hewitt and Brian Hallisay Supernatural with Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles

When your best friend rushes to you with a problem, what do you do first?

• • • • •

Give food or drink, anything that will make him or her feel better Spend the entire day to help him or her through it Ta k i n g h i m o r h e r o u t s h o p p i n g a n d d i n i n g Giving a nice warm hug and going on a spa day Just listen to him or her pour his heart out, not giving any judgement or advice

Yo u r c o m f o r t f o o d a n d p l a c e w o u l d b e …

• • • • •

A nice, hearty homecooked casserole that taste and feels like home.

Chocolate, ice cream, cake… only sweets, please!

Steak, wine and other fabulous, fine dining staples.

Sushi, sashimi in your favorite local authentic Japanese food joint.

Burgers, fries, root beer float… the works!

On a night out but you can’t take in alcohol because you will be driving the gang home, your beverage of choice is…

• An energy drink mix, of course, for that energy all night, ing on you.

• Piña colada mocktail. Sweet and tangy at the same time.

• Pomegranate mojito mocktail. Pink pomegranate… need I • J u s t g o o d o l d s o d a . S p r i t e o r C o c a - C o l a . W h o c a r e s , i t ’s • H o t t e a . S o m e t h i n g n i c e , u n a s s u m i n g a n d h e a l t h y.

because they’re all dependYo u d e s e r v e i t ! say more? t h e f i z z y o u ’ r e a f t e r.

The one song that you would secretly sing and dance to in the shower would be…

• • • • •

Don’t Stop Believing by Journey N o t h i n g ’s g o n n a s t o p u s n o w b y S t a r s h i p Material Girl by Madonna YMCA by The Village People Eye of the Tiger by Sur vivor

I f y o u h a d a s u p e r p o w e r, w h a t w o u l d i t b e ?

• • • • •

Super speed, just like Flash I want to be part of a family of Supers, like the Incredibles Super intellect just like Ironman M i n d c o n t r o l a n d Te l e k i n e s i s Time travel. The ability to go back in time and even stop time.

W h a t i s y o u r h e a r t ’s d e e p e s t w i s h , o r a t l e a s t t h e o n e c l o s e s t t o y o u r s ?

• A w o r l d d e v o i d o f w a r, c r i m e a n d p o v e r t y.

• To h a v e a l o n g a n d h e a l t h y l i f e .

• All the money in the world that you will use for good, of course. Or at least to be as rich as Elon Musk who rang in 2021 as the richest man in the world.

• To b e a b l e t o h e a l d i s e a s e s .

• To b e a f a m o u s b e s t s e l l i n g a u t h o r a n d / o r m o t i v a t i o n a l s p e a k e r.

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It’s now time to learn your Love Language! Simply count which letter you chose the most and refer to the chart below: M o s t l y A’s : Yo u r L o v e L a n g u a g e s i s …

ACTS OF SERVICE!

• Yo u l o v e h e l p i n g o t h e r s a n d e v e r y o n e l o v e s h o w y o u d e v o t e y o u r t i m e , t a l e n t a n d r e s o u r c e s o u t s i d e j u s t y o u r i m m e d i a t e f a m i l y. K e e p i t u p , b u t d o n ’ t forget to also give yourself love and attention because you deser ve it!

M o s t l y B ’s : Yo u r L o v e L a n g u a g e s i s …

QUALITY TIME!

• Yo u l o v e p r i v a t e t i m e w i t h t h o s e d e a r e s t t o y o u ; y o u d o n ’ t y e a r n t o s a v e t h e w o r l d b e c a u s e y o u r w o r l d c o n s i s t s o f t h e f e w n e a r e s t y o u a n d t h a t ’s alright. After all, we start with loving ourselves first, our spouses, our k i d s a n d m e m b e r o f o u r f a m i l y, a n d s o o n , w e w i l l s e e t h a t l o v e s p i l l f o r t h !

M o s t l y C ’s : Yo u r L o v e L a n g u a g e s i s …

RECEIVING GIFTS!

• Yo u ’ r e s o m e o n e e v e r y o n e w a n t s t o b e a r o u n d w i t h , e s p e c i a l l y d u r i n g special occasions because you love giving gifts as much as or more t h a n r e c e i v i n g a n y t h i n g . S e e i n g t h e s m i l e s o n y o u r r e c i p i e n t ’s f a c e s i s e n o u g h t o m a k e y o u s m i l e . Yo u a l s o k n o w h o w t o l a v i s h y o u r l o v e d o n e s with presents; just don’t overdo it, keep the finances healthy; only spend w i t h i n y o u r m e a n s . B e a w i s e s h o p p e r b e y o n d j u s t a c h e e r f u l g i v e r.

M o s t l y D ’s : Yo u r L o v e L a n g u a g e s i s …

PHYSICAL TOUCH!

• Yo u r s p o u s e s a n d k i d s a l l l o o k f o r w a r d t o y o u r s p e c i a l t o u c h . W h e n your partner gets home, you lovingly give a nice neck, back or even f o o t r u b . Yo u r l i t t l e o n e s l o v e h o w y o u m a s s a g e t h e m a f t e r e v e r y s h o w e r. D o n ’ t f o r g e t t o g i v e y o u r s e l f a s p e c i a l s p a d a y t o o , a t l e a s t once a month because you also deser ve to unwind and keep your magic touch, so that you can keep giving on that good, sensual love.

M o s t l y E ’s : Yo u r L o v e L a n g u a g e s i s …

W O R D S O F A F F I R M AT I O N !

• Ever yone looks on you for words of wisdom and advice, because you speak from the heart and you genuinely care. But m o s t o f a l l , y o u a l s o k n o w h o w t o l i s t e n , a n d t h a t ’s w h y y o u k n o w e x a c t l y w h a t t o s a y. S t a y h o n e s t w i t h y o u r s e l f a n d t h o s e around you because that is what they loved most about you.

W h at e v e r y o u r L o v e L a n g u a g e i s , e m b r a c e i t a n d a l l o w i t t o e n h a n c e y o u r r e l at i o n s h i p w i t h t h o s e w h o m at t e r m o s t !

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It’s All in the Stars February 12, 2021 kickstarts the auspicious Year of Metal Ox, and it said that this is the year where endurance, dependability, strength and determination, the very nature of the Ox is celebrated!

Being one with the world in rejoicing this awe-inspiring tradition, we share insights toward the traits of each of the 12 animal spirits in the Chinese Zodiac and also famous names who are born under each sign and have successfully capitalized on the corresponding traits of their animal guides!

1. RAT (1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020) • According to the ancient Chinese horoscope legend, the emperor of the forest organized a race among the animals and the rat, said to be quick-witted, charming, persuasive and cunning won first place, thus making this animal lead the cycle of 12.

• Asian-American celebrities born in the Year of the Rat are Freida Pinto, Indian American beauty who most notably rose to fame after the success of Bollywood Hit, Slumdog Millionaire and also Broadway star, Eva Noblezada who also top-billed the movie, Yellow Rose.

• We also have Katy Perry, Lebron James and activist Rosa Parks.

2. OX (1973,1985,1997,2009,2021) • It’s the year of the Metal Ox, and so will it be extra auspicious for the following Asian American stars born under this animal sign?

• Patient, kind, conservative, persevering and stubborn are just some of the traits attributed to the Ox. And we can definitely see these traits in some of these AsianAmerican stars which include Bruno Mars, Naomi Osaka, Chrissy Teigen, George Takei and Lana Lana Condor.

2. OX (1973,1985,1997,2009,2021) • It’s the year of the Metal Ox, and so will it be extra auspicious for the following Asian American stars born under this animal sign?

• Patient, kind, conservative, persevering and stubborn are just some of the traits attributed to the Ox. And we can definitely see these traits in some of these AsianAmerican stars which include Bruno Mars, Naomi Osaka, Chrissy Teigen, George Takei and Lana Lana Condor.

3. TIGER (1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022) • Brave, authoritative, emotional, wise, creative and intense are just some of the attributes of this glorious animal!

• Those proudly born under this sign is Malaysian actress best known for being a Bond girl, Michelle Yeoh, Chinese actor, Dylan Wang and of course, Korean-American director, Jenna Ushkowitz.

• Let’s not forget Hollywood A-Listers Lady Gaga, Leonardo Di Caprio, Tom Cruise and of course, the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt! We can certainly see the Tiger in all of them!!

4. RABBIT (1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011) •

Compassionate, gentle and sincere: these are the things that define this animal spirit.And that we can definitely see in these Asian-American stars, Jet Liu and Liu Yifei who has made the Asian community proud with their superb performance in Mulan live action film.

•

Stars with proud Asian ethnic roots born in this year also include Darren Criss, Karan Brar, Isa Briones (up and coming star and daughter of Filipino-American actor, Jon Jon Briones) and even adorable Youtuber, Ryan Kaji of Ryan’s World (formerly known as Ryan’s Toy Review).

•

Hollywood heavyweights and former lovers with a 12-year age gap, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie were also born under the sign of this auspicious animal.

5. DRAGON (1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012) •

The most-desired year for many families, especially among the Chinese and Japanese, as it was said to be the most auspicious animal of them all is the mystical, enigmatic and powerful dragon!

•

Those born under this sign are said to be fearless, energetic, charismatic, leader-like and bold.

•

The most popular Asian-American stars born under the mark of this animal – the only mythical one among all 12 creatures of the Chinese astrology are Bruce Lee, Awkwafina, Brenda Song, Vanessa Ann Hudgens along with NBA superstar, Jeremy Lin.

•

Let’s also not forget the extraordinary Martin Luther King, Jr. who remains as legendary as the dragon, to this day.

6. SNAKE (1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013) •

• Entrancing, gregarious, generous, talented and very smart to the point of sly, some of the famous Asian Americans born under this sign are famous Japanese American DJ and music producer Steve Aoki, Kelly Marie Tran who rose to fame with Star Wars and who also voices Raya in Disney’s latest animated film, Raya and the Last Dragon.

•

There’s also Korean superstar, Psy and beautiful Chinese-Singaporean Hollywood actress, Gong Li.

•

Let’s not forget the legends past and present such as Robert Downey, Jr., Audrey

•

Hepburn, Muhammad Ali and Billie Eilish

7. HORSE (1966,1978,1990,2002,2014) •

Independent, wild at heart, impatient, energetic travel bugs are what the horse is most noted for.

•

The most popular Asian Americans born under this sign are martial artists Jackie Chan and Jason Scott Lee.

•

There’s also part-Filipino Disney princess Anna Maria Perez De Tagle, the star of slumdog millionaire, IndianAmerican Dev Patel and Hollywood’s Highest Paid actress as of late, Jennifer Lawrence..

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8. SHEEP / GOAT (1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015) •

This is the only interchangeable sign that is sometimes interpreted as Sheep, and inother cultures, as the Goat. It is not to be mistaken for the bovine, which is the Ox. Theyare said to be meek, gentle, coy, sweet yet intelligent.

•

Those born under this sign are tech legends Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, Hollywood stars Jason Momoa, and also Chinese American actords who both appeared in the celebrated film, “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” Zhang Ziyi and Chow Yun Fat.

•

Let’s not forget today’s hottest singing sensation, Filipino on her dad’s side and German on her mother’s side, Americanborn actress, singer and songwriter, Olivia Rodrigo.

9. MONKEY (1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016) •

Brilliant, fun, hyperactive, energetic, good in busines and sometimes sly, those born under the sign of the Monkey are twins Cole & Dylan Sprouse, Tom Hanks, Will Smith, Zayn Malik, Kim Kardashian and Cardi B!

•

With their brilliant antics and vibrant personalities, you can say that in a way, they truly have the Monkey spirit!

10. ROOSTER (1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017) •

Independent, practical, observant and gallant are just some of the traits this animal sign is known for.

•

But with some of the best singers born under this sign, we’d say that “superb singers” should also be part of that list!

Some of the famous crooners born under this sign are

•

Beyonce Knowles, Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Dolly Parton and Bette Midler!

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Let’s not forget these powerful and iconic women like Yoko Ono, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Ellen Degeneres who also use their voices in a different way – for a cause.

11. DOG (1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018) •

The one known most loyal, faithful, kind, patient and generous are the ones born under the year of the Dog, following the traits of Man’s best friend!

•

Popular stars born under this year are part-Japanese model-actress Devon Aoki and also Japanese director, screenwriter and producer, Akira Kurosawa. There’s also Constance Wu.

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Let’s not forget the legends, too in music, Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley, and in film, Steven Spielberg and Stan Lee.

12. PIG (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019) •

Finally rounding up this list are those known to be loving, tolerant, honest and appreciative of luxury… like the Pig!

•

Famous celebrities born under the Year of the Pig are Korean American stars Sandra Oh, Aubrey Anderson-Emmons and Steven Yeun along with K-Pop sensations Kim Taehyung and Jimin.

•

And let’s not forget 2021’s erstwhile holder of the “richest man in the world” Elon Musk. Chinese Astrology is a big part of Asian culture – especially in East Asia and so whether or not you believe in this tradition, it is always a delight to learn all about it, to broaden our perspective and regard for all cultures and individuals.

TESLA / ROADSTER

ELECTRIC FEEL As the world is rapidly changing, the technology in our automobiles follow suit. Global warming has become an increasingly impor tant subject, and many argue that our own personal vehicles are a huge contributing factor to the damaging ef fects of our environmental changes. In California, Governor Gavin Newsom has gone as far as signing an order in which only electric vehicles may be bought at dealerships within 30 years. Granted, you may still own a gaspowered car in California after the order goes into ef fect, but only if you buy it used.

Many purists despise the fact that many auto brands are adopting the EV (electric vehicle) platform. They are worried the sheer driving experience will be a thing of the past, as the near dead silence of an EV vehicle does not compare to a roaring engine. If the sound of an engine and connected feel to a vehicle isn’t all impor tant to you, then maybe the technology an EV has to of fer may entice you.

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HUMMER EV

AUDI / E-TRON GT

Tesla is one of the biggest EV producers in the market right now. It has become a hot commodity in the car industr y as it is considered to be the definition of a luxur y EV. Their technology does not come shor t, as ever y single car runs on an iPad tablet-like infotainment center, aside from its electric powered motor of course. From there, you can control practically anything the car has to of fer. The most impressive feature a Tesla car has to of fer, in our opinion, would have to be its self-driving autopilot capability. Once thought to be a ver y futuristic feature that we wouldn’t be able to see in our lifetime, Tesla has accomplished that feat and successfully introduced it to the general public.

On top of that, Tesla vehicles may even be dubbed the smar t cars as it can predict a potential car accident, which will assist you out of a dangerous situation. There are many videos online showcasing how the accident-avoidance system has saved not only the drivers lives, but also ensured the safety of others around them. Tesla has changed the image of what an EV should be.

TESLA / CYBERTRUCK

Once thought to be uncool and unappealing, the styling of a Tesla exemplifies luxur y and class. A far cr y from the Toyota Prius. But, what about spor ts cars enthusiasts? Will the thrill a gas-powered car brought them become obsolete? That’s debatable. Tesla has introduced the, yet to be released, Roadster. The answer to an all-electric spor ts car. Despite packing a modest 288 horsepower, the Roadster can reach a high speed of 250 miles per hour and reach 0-60 in an astonishing 1.9 seconds. Those stats alone should be enough to garner interest from a car enthusiast. On top of that, it has a range estimated to go 620 miles on a single charge. To us, that sounds, elec-terrific.

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It may sound that the only choice you have for an exceptionally wor thy EV comes from Tesla. While that may be true at the time of this writing, there are many up and coming brands that look to challenge the EV giant. Enter Nikola. While they’ve only introduced one vehicle to the market, they have yet to even produce it. However, their first entr y into the EV market is no slouch by any means. The Badger is an electric super truck with ver y impressive numbers to match its unique and appealing styling. This super truck can have up to 906 horsepower and up to 980 ft pounds of torque, making it a real contender to the likes of GMC’s Hummer EV and Tesla’s radically designed Cyber truck. Nikola’s super truck is expected to begin production in 2022, which means we are still a little while away from seeing it on the road.

NIKOLA / THE BADGER

The future of electric vehicles is bright. Whether you are on board with these vehicles or not, the EV is here to stay. The likes of Audi, BMW, Ford, and even Jaguar, (to name a few), are beginning to dive into the electric powered car market with their own iterations. Although the electric vehicles seem to have been around for a while, we have only seen the beginning of it. As technology progresses, you can count on these EV’s to progress with it. The possibilities of what technology and vehicles can accomplish are endless, and it’s only a matter of time until we see full electric supercars make a splash in the market. With Audi gearing up to reveal their new E Tron GT electric spor ts car, we can’t contain our excitement to see what Audi brings to the electric powered car industr y.

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TESLA / MODEL X

AUDI / E-TRON

HOMEBAKED

BY BAM As much as the pandemic has halted the lives of many people and businesses, it has also presented as much of an oppor tunity for others to dabble in new interests and hobbies.

Homebaked by Bam is just

that. Located in Orange County, California, Vanessa Dagdag, nickname known as Bam, star ted her business by simply baking a cake - for fun.

With the suppor t of friends and family, Dagdag received numerous amounts of positive feedback thus leading to the confidence of opening a small business. The idea of a flourishing baking business never came to mind due to never receiving any formal experience beforehand, but what star ted as an experiment is now a success with a selection of creations custom made to order for any occasion.

SM:

Tell us a little bit about yourself - what do you do professionally, and share anything you’d like about your background - family, hobbies, achievements, etc.

Vanessa:

I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to the US in 2005. I work in the healthcare industr y. I also work for Miss M as her executive assistant and I want to take this oppor tunity to say thank you for featuring Homebaked by Bam on Spotlight Media Magazine. I never asked her to do this, but we all know how generous and suppor tive she is. This is going to be a big help for my small business, especially in these tr ying times. I am also a pawrent to a French bulldog which I got from Miss M as well. Her name is Luna.

SM: As a baker, how did you get your first star t and what led you to opening Homebaked by Bam?

Vanessa: I star ted baking as a hobby when the pandemic hit and California went on a lockdown. For fun, I thought I would bake a chocolate cake for my friend’s bir thday. That was the first time I’ve ever made a cake. To my surprise, they loved it. That inspired me so the next day, I tried to make Basque burnt cheesecakes for friends and family. Gladly, I received positive feedback. Soon after, I experimented with other flavors like dalgona cof fee and matcha green tea. With a little self-encouragement and suppor t from them, I took the plunge and made it into a humble small business. Currently, I have selections of home-baked goodies available for pre-order such as olive oil cake, Yakult cheesecake, cupcakes, cake pops, decorated cakes for kids and kids at hear t, and also for furr y pets. There’s a special cake that I love to make and is the most fun one. It’s called “breakable hear t” and it’s pretty interactive. It comes with an adorable little mallet to smash the hear t-shaped desser t. Then, a surprise reveals itself as it crumbles. One time, my cousins surprised their dad with a brandnew car for his bir thday. They ordered one of my breakable hear t cakes and hid the car key inside. Stories like these make my hear t full and content.

SM: What are some of the challenges you’ve faced with operating your own business?

Vanessa: There were some challenges along the way because of Covid-19 restrictions. However, it worked itself out. There were moments when business was slow. It was something I had expected because that’s just the nature of it. I made it a priority to engage with my customers on Instagram and Facebook to keep it as fun as possible. Although it had become a small business, I didn’t want to take away the fun out of it. It is my way to have some creative release. I tr y not to stress much about it. I’m still learning about this newfound passion.

SM: What keeps you going despite some of the challenges you face- it can be financial/income, seeing smiles on your clients/ repeat customer faces, etc.

Vanessa: The best thing about all of this is seeing the sweetest smiles from my customers. The money is good, but when they aren’t happy, it defeats the purpose. My passion doesn’t only require mixing the ingredients and hoping it’s good enough when it’s done baking.

My passion ultimately requires a pleasant experience for the customers to have as they enjoy ever y bite of my home-baked products.

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To place an order, or to check out her latest creations, follow Vanessa on Instagram @ homebacked_by_bam located in Stanton, California.

YOU ARE LOVED 72

“ A Candid Heart to Heart with Ms. M” FAMILY FEUD

DEAR MS. M, Filipinos are taught to put family first. Since emigrating to the United States 5 years ago, my parents have depended on me to cover all their needs, and I also put my 2 brothers gladly through college. I also star ted investing in real estate and bought a condo about 3 years ago, and my parents and two unemployed brothers (both of whom are now college graduates) and they seem to just want to rely on the money I send.

I had recently told them also that after a year I intend to have that condo rented out to augment my income since I have to pay its amor tization for 7 years. They can easily move back to our home in the province which I have renovated, and where living costs are much lower, especially since they don’t have work in Manila.

Now, they are accusing me of kicking them out, being selfish and refusing to let them stay in my nice condominium when they had been living there for 3 years and I even said they can stay for one more year before having it rented out next year, when it’s safe to travel to the Philippines.

I think that I’ve given them enough; more than just my hand, I have given them my shoulders or even more!

And yet, they still call me proud, ungrateful and someone who feels so superior when it is them who has taken advantage of me and this has been af fecting me too much.

Emily B. Nurse based in Newark, New Jersey

Dear Emily, It is the usual case of Filipino families who become financially dependent on their relatives abroad. It is a cultural problem, but whether you admit it or not, this is a classic case of enablers. Emily, unfor tunately, you have allowed this to happen as many other OFWs. Now you have to set boundaries as this has made your family too dependent on you, to the point of not working ( two unemployed brothers). This practice has led many Filipinos to become irresponsible for their finances while waiting for their families' remittances.

You have to make it ver y clear to them that they are not your only obligation. You have your bills and your own life. You have to schedule a family meeting, maybe through zoom, so all of you can see each other. Let them understand that as much as you can be generous, you have to set a limit. They should realize that you got your concerns with your life. Your suppor t is only complementar y to their expenses. They should not be entirely dependent on you. They have to learn that money is not easy abroad as they think.

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UNHAPPY HOUSEWIFE FROM HANOI

DEAR MS. M, I am Vietnamese national and a legal permanent resident of the USA. I married my longtime sweethear t and when I moved here to join him about three years ago, I still wake up in utter culture shock. I know you think I should have already adjusted by now, but the culture is so dif ferent here, and even the food doesn’t come close to Vietnam. The worst par t is that I don’t even know who my neighbors are. I am preparing to take my naturalization soon, but I am having cold feet. Should I stay in the USA? I don’t have many friends; people seem to mock and laugh at my Vietnamese accent behind my back and that’s why I never gained any confidence to find work. I speak good English for a Vietnamese, but it will take longer to remove my noticeable accent.

I was someone in Vietnam and I feel like nobody here. I love my husband, he is the only good thing here, and he says that the USA holds so much oppor tunity for me (I used to be a marketing and adver tising manager back home) but I don’t see it at all. How do you think I can adjust and maybe embrace life in the USA?

Ms. Hanoi, Mid-30’s based in San Diego, California

Dear Ms. Hanoi, I have to tell you that there is no reason to feel belittled in America as a Vietnamese legal resident here in the US. Be proud of your heritage. The Vietnamese people have contributed much to the economy of the countr y. Throughout America, Vietnamese-Americans have opened supermarkets, restaurants, bakeries, barbershops and auto-repair, personal ser vices, repair and maintenance businesses, and nail and beauty salons. Give it some time, and soon you will embrace this countr y as your second home. Believe your husband in what he told you. There may be some challenges at first, but soon you will use those skills to sur vive here if you were a professional in your home countr y. Ever y Asian American has stories to tell, much of which is their dif ficulties embracing the American culture but most of them are thriving entrepreneurs. So I wish you all the luck as you find your success.

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SPOTLIGHT MEDIA MAGAZINE

WISHING OUR STEPMOM AWAY

DEAR MS. M, Hello, my name is Victoria, and I am 15, and my younger brother, Noah is 13. We like looking at your magazine. We were born and raised in California and our life was per fect until our parents divorced three years ago. We only have each other, now.

It is so sad that my mom has a new husband, but we like our dad better anyway, until about 6 months ago when moved to the other end of America, taking us far away from our friends and family. We were fine at first because it enabled our dad to provide better for us as it was a great employment-related move, but then he shor tly got married to a strange woman, who did not even take time to know us! He did not even consult us like he usually would before.

Now, we feel that our dad is mostly tight in cash because he spends for this woman’s salon, shopping and all her other crazy expenses! She doesn’t even come and talk to us, does not cook for us, does nothing at all! She’s older than us but way younger than him, and it’s like he’s got someone we need to babysit and it’s unfair! She is your classic evil stepmother, and she’s not even as beautiful as our mom! We want to rebel or runaway sometimes! I just wish this woman just goes away and so we can have our once great dad for ourselves again.

What should we do so that we won’t be so angr y and resentful all the time?

Kids who hope our Dad leaves our Stepmom

Dear VICTORIA, Your problem is the cliche wicked stepmother in many fictional stories, but yours is real. So this is ver y challenging, but you got to address this issue and tackle the bull by its horns since you are ver y mature for your age.

First, you need to understand your stepmother better so you can deal with the situation more ef fectively.

Then, you have to harness that courage to be frank, and honest with her.

Give a good thought and analyze your attitude towards your stepmother. Understand why she is giving you rude behavior. Confront your stepmother about her behavior. If it doesn't help, ignore her behavior, lead your life, and don't let it get into you.

DESPERATELY SEEKING FOR HAPPINESS

DEAR MS. M, I am 60 years working mother of 3 children who are all grown up and working like me. Two are married happily, and one teenager lives with us. I live a life of quiet desperation. Over the years, I have been living a life of a loveless marriage and ungrateful children. My life has been a discontented routine of waking up, preparing food, working, going home. I have accepted my lot in life, but is there more to this?

Ms. M., I need a listening ear. What should I do?

DESPERATE SUSAN

Dear Desperate Susan, You have taken the 'leave it alone and don't think about it" option . This option is like you rejected the optimistic route and succumb to depression or, as you say, "quiet life of desperation". I suggest that you face these sad facts head-on, admit to and own them, and then tr y to decide if there's anything you either want to or can do about it.

Take an active step. Do not lose hope. Look into improving your relationships with your husband and set your kids to know how you feel. Open communication is the best thing in situations where you think life has taken over your happiness. You will realize that after this moment of truth, action to improve your life begins with you.

Dear Ms. M is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, and is not a diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, mental-health professional, or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. By submitting a letter, you agree to let Spotlight Media Magazine use it – in part or in full - and that we may edit it for length or clarity.

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TOP 3 FUN, SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE EXERCISES YOU CAN DO AT HOME Now, more than ever, espousing measures to boost the immune system is vital. Exercise remains the top means of helping the body naturally fight against infections, especially COVID-19.

But how exactly can one continue an active lifestyle and regular exercise routine in the time when the world still struggles to recover from the unprecedented era brought about by a pandemic?

Here are our top tips to stay in top shape without leaving the comfor t of home!

• Planks versus Zombies…

This is the best way to make yourself feel like you are coming alive! Fight the zombiemode days brought about by the pandemic, with the plank, which is the simplest exercise anyone can do, and the best core workout you can do essentially anywhere! It may seem simple; it can be tricky and hard but it’s definitely wor th it! Plus, it helps with improving balance!

All you need to do is find a comfor table place and then star t in a push-up position on your toes, back and legs forming a straight line all the way up to your shoulders (literally, turning yourself into a plank). Tighten your abs and glutes, star ting with 30 seconds and as you grow stronger, add 1-15 seconds to the time you hold the plank for each day, until you can hold as much as 3 minutes, which is said to be the most ideal.

Don’t forget to rest for about 15-20 seconds in between and strive for 10-15 reps a day.

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• Don’t skip meals… Skip Rope!!!

Bring out the kid within you, and if you have kids let them tag along, or rather, skip along! Skip rope or jump rope is not just a fun way of losing those calories (in fact it’s equivalent to jogging and sprinting, depending on how many reps you take) and it is also a popular warm up for more strenuous spor ts or even combative ones such as boxing and mar tial ar ts.

All you need is to grab a rope next time you go shopping, make sure that it’s not too long, adjust it according to your height, and we recommend for you to step in the middle of the rope with one foot and then pull both ends or handles up along the side of the body so that it is straight and taut. Ideally, the handles should reach the shoulder for beginners, so adjust it accordingly.

This improves balance, focus, coordination and more! Star t with 30 skips, progressing to double, and so for th. Soon, you might find your way to a thousand skips a day, like the People’s Champ Manny Pacquaio who used to do a minimum 5,000 skip rope jumps a day!

And did we mention the best par t? It helps you boost your metabolism too, now you don’t have to skip meals, just help your body naturally enhance its metabolism so that you can enjoy a complete meal along with a sweet treat without feeling guilty!

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• Stair things up or simply Step up!

We’d recommend jogging up and down your staircase, for a minimum of 20-20 reps (ascents and descents) but for those who don’t have stairs at home, surely you have one step, be it at the sidewalk or your handy-dandy stool.

It’s so easy! All you need to do is alternate one foot up, and the other balancing down, and then reach a steady rhythm until you’ve done 50 reps, and then rest for about 10-15 seconds. Do this at least 3 times for the first week until you can progress to more reps.

Soon, you’ll find yourself fit and firm in no time!

We recommend all of the above three simple, low-risk exercises that you can do at home especially when you are binging on movies on your favorite streaming ser vice! Be more fit, boost your immune system and your body will thank you! Don’t forget to stretch before you begin any routing, and then cool down by doing the same stretches and adding more basic massage strokes to the areas most af fected such as the arms, legs and core. If you are unsure if you are able to per form the exercises above, consult with your doctor to ensure it is safe for you to do so.

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Stop the spread of germs

that can make you and others sick!

Wash your hands often

Wear a mask

6 feet 2 jump ropes

Cover your coughs and sneezes

Keep 6 feet of space between you and your friends cdc.gov/coronavirus

CS 316683-F 12/04/2020

How to Safely Wear and Take Off a Mask

Accessible: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

WEAR YOUR MASK CORRECTLY • • • • •

Wash your hands before putting on your mask Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face Make sure you can breathe easily Do not place a mask on a child younger than 2

M

AS

K

BA

RR

IER

USE A MASK TO HELP PROTECT OTHERS • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth to help prevent getting and spreading COVID-19 • Wear a mask in public settings when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when indoors and when it may be difficult for you to stay six feet apart from people who don’t live with you • Don’t put the mask around your neck or up on your forehead • Don’t touch the mask, and, if you do, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer

FOLLOW EVERYDAY HEALTH HABITS • • • •

PHARMACY

Stay at least 6 feet away from others Avoid contact with people who are sick Avoid crowds and places with poor ventilation Wash your hands often

TAKE OFF YOUR MASK CAREFULLY, WHEN YOU’RE HOME • • • • •

Untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops Handle only by the ear loops or ties Fold outside corners together Place mask in the washing machine Wash your hands with soap and water Personal masks are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators, both of which should be saved for health care workers and other medical first responders.

For instructions on making a mask, see: CS 316488I 12/21/2020

cdc.gov/coronavirus

Critical workers: Care for yourself one small way each day Find new ways to safely connect with family and friends, get support, and share feelings

Take breaks to relax and unwind through music, sports, gardening, or new hobbies Treat yourself to healthy foods and get enough sleep

Take care of your body and get moving to lessen fatigue, anxiety, or sadness Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Hotline: call or text 1-800-985-5990 320352-F

cdc.gov/coronavirus

Parents: Care for yourself one small way each day Find new ways to safely connect with family and friends, get support, and share feelings

Take breaks to relax and unwind through yoga, music, gardening, or new hobbies Treat yourself to healthy foods and get enough sleep

Take care of your body and get moving to lessen fatigue, anxiety, or sadness Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Disaster Distress Hotline: call or text 1-800-985-5990 320352-H

cdc.gov/coronavirus

COVID-19 Vaccines Vaccines (shots) are one of the tools we have to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

To stop this pandemic, we need to use all of our prevention tools. Vaccines are one of the most effective tools to protect your health and prevent disease. Vaccines work with your body’s natural defenses so your body will be ready to fight the virus, if you are exposed (also called immunity). Other steps, like wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth and staying at least 6 feet away from other people you don’t live with, also help stop the spread of COVID-19.

Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines are very effective at keeping you from getting COVID-19. Experts also think that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may help keep you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19. These vaccines cannot give you the disease itself.

The vaccines are safe. The U.S. vaccine safety system makes sure that all vaccines are as safe as possible. All the COVID-19 vaccines that are being used have gone through the same safety tests and meet the same standards as any other vaccines produced through the years. A system in place across the entire country that allows CDC to watch for safety issues and make sure the vaccines stay safe.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CS322256-A | 02/03/21

Different types of COVID-19 vaccines will be available.

Most of these vaccines are given in two shots, one at a time and spaced apart. The first shot gets your body ready. The second shot is given at least three weeks later to make sure you have full protection. If you are told you need two shots, make sure that you get both of them. The vaccines may work in slightly different ways, but all types of the vaccines will help protect you.

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/vaccines

What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine Accessible version: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect/after.html

COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may feel like flu and may even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.

Common side effects On the arm where you got the shot:

Throughout the rest of your body:

 Pain

 Fever

 Tiredness

 Swelling

 Chills

 Headache

Helpful tips If you have pain or discomfort, talk to your doctor about taking an over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot:

To reduce discomfort from fever:

• Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area.

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Use or exercise your arm.

• Dress lightly.

Ask your healthcare provider about getting started with v-safe

When to call the doctor In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is normal. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider:

Use your smartphone to tell CDC about any side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

You’ll also get reminders if you need a second dose

• If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours

Learn more about v-safe. www.cdc.gov/vsafe

• If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days

Remember • Side effects may feel like flu and even affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.

• With most COVID-19 vaccines, you will need 2 shots in order for them to work. Get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first one, unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get a second shot.

• It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require 2 shots may not protect you until a week or two after your second shot.

• It’s important for everyone to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions. Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, stay at least 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds, and wash your hands often.

HEALTHCARE PROVIDER, PLEASE FILL IN THE INFORMATION BELOW: If your temperature is

°F or

°C or higher or if you have questions, call your healthcare provider.

Tell your healthcare provider about:

Healthcare provider phone number: Medication (if needed): Take

every

hours as needed.

(type and dose or amount)

cdc.gov/coronavirus CS 321466-A 12/13/2020