Sofrito For Your Soul, cultural online magazine for Latinos! How do you feed your soul?

Daily Dose of Sofrito: Chicago's Jibarito Sandwich

In 2005, I had an opportunity to visit Chicago for a few days for a business conference and as soon as I arrived to the hotel my conference was being held at, I recieved an email on my blackberry from a friend Dulce Ramos. Dulce Ramos is a Chicago native and very successful woman that has an amazing career in real estate as well as very unique women's shoe store called the Pump Room Boutique. I decided to call Dulce to let her know I was in town and before I knew it...she was at the Hotel picking me up to give me the Chicago Express Latino Tour.

You see...I had written an article inquiring about the existence of Latino Life in Chicago and Dulce really wanted to show me how proud the Boricuas are out in Paseo Boricua. What I encountered was fascinating, all these really nice shops and boutiques with very interesting themes and personality all of their own. She asked me if I wanted to have a "Jibarito" and I looked at her with a puzzled look...I had no idea what she was talking about. She took her time to explain it to me as we drove to a place called "Borinquen Restaurant" which is also known as the home of this Mysterious "Jibarito Sandwich". We get there and the place is hopping (es la hora de "lonche") and I am looking at the awesome artwork on the wall created by a local artist named "Cuca". The tables are actually hardwood and in the shape of Puerto Rico. I ordered a "Jibarito de Pollo" and when I got it, i was really taken back. It was a chicken sandwich with lettuce tomato and cheese...with tostones instead of bread with a little garlic drizzed on the top. This was soooo cool, I am having this really funky sandwich while Salsa is playing in the background in a place surrounded by Latinos.

It was so good I had to go back with my Fraternity brothers...Big shout out to the brothers of the Chi Chapter of Phi Iota Alpha, Inc who hosted me for the rest of my trip.

below is a recipe that a lady named Julia sent me from Chicago.

Get an authentic "Jibarito" when you are in Chicago...Find out how at www.borinquenrestaurant.com


A special thanks (y una abrazo) to Dulce Ramos for being a fantastic host and you can find out much more about her at www.DulceRamos.com and www.ThePumpRoomBoutique.com

As I am,
George Torres
The Urban Jibaro

Jibarito Recipe

Source: Julia

The Puerto Rican style jibarito (pronounced hee-bah-ree-to) sandwich was created at the Borinquen Restaurant in Chicago by owner Juan "Peter" Figueroa. Here's my take on making his famous jibarito at home. The plantain "bread slices" for this sandwich are most easily made if you have a large deep fryer, but it can also be done in a deep skillet with oil. I originally saw this made on FoodTV's "Roker on the Road" (episode "On a Roll"). According to the Borinquen website, these sandwiches are known as "emparedado de platano" in Puerto Rico.

1 large green plantain, peeled and sliced lengthwise and in half (4 pieces)
oil (for deep frying)
1 tablespoon butter
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup thinly sliced onions
2 cloves garlic, smashed and minced
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1-2 pinch cayenne or dried chipotle powder, to taste
6 ounces shaved shoulder steak (or other tender cut such as flank, or thinly sliced chicken breast meat)
salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 slices American cheese
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
romaine lettuce
thinly sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers
1 teaspoon melted butter
1/4 teaspoon roasted minced garlic

2 servings 2 sandwiches

(Also, you will need 2 heavy cutting boards - rectangular ones work better with the shape of the plantain).

Heat oil, then fry the peeled and sliced plantain for 1 minute.

Remove plantain from oil, place on a heavy cutting board (if wooden, wrap board in plastic first, which will assist in the spreading of the softened plantain), top with another cutting board, and flatten the plantain between them.

Fry the now-flattened plantain in the oil again, until outside is golden and crispy; remove from oil, set aside on paper towels to blot oil, and keep warm.

Over medium high heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter and olive oil together, then sauté the onions until just becoming soft.

Add the garlic, cumin, and cayenne (to taste), stir well, then add the meat slices and sauté until browned; season to taste with salt and pepper.

Spread mayonnaise on bottom slice of flattened fried plantain, lay down 2 slices of American cheese, then the meat and onions. Top with lettuce and thinly sliced tomato (or roasted red pepper), then the remaining plantain top.
Combine 1 teaspoon melted butter with 1/4 teaspoon roasted minced garlic, then brush the top plantain slice with the butter garlic mixture.

Repeat steps to make another sandwich.

Serve completed sandwiches with Arroz Con Gandules (Yellow Rice With Pigeon Peas).

Jibaritos can also made with other combinations of roast pork, white or dark chicken meat, vegetables or ham - don't be afraid to experiment.

Happy Mother's Day!

Hot Myspace Comments - Dezrum.com

On behalf of Sofrito For Your Soul, I want to wish all Mothers a very Happy Mother's Day!
Let today be the first out of many days that you show them how important they are in your life...

As I am,
George Torres
The Urban Jibaro...
Hijo De Carmen, Nieto De Gloria!

Daily Dose of Sofrito: Bodega Ave

Bodega Ave. is a pop fantasy and ridiculous satire based on a bunch of pre-teens living in Brooklyn, New York. The diverse cast of kids reflects not only upon New York but most of America. Many of these stories come from personal experience and memories growing up amidst a neighborhood of dredlocks, braids, and jewfros. This comic is about growing up weird and out of place in the world. For those of you who have ever felt the same way as a child or adult, Bodega Ave. is the place for you!

The Creators

Tara Lopez – Artist
Tara is an immigrant from Staten Island (AKA “Da Dump,” or “Shaolin”), now living in Brooklyn. She is an alumnus of Parsons School of Design (No, I don’t know Tim Gunn but sure wish I did), where she majored in Illustration and animation (Like Rob Zombie). Currently, works as a freelance illustrator and Graphic Designer… Oh, and comic artist .

Aurin Squire – Writer
Aurin is from Opa Locka, Florida. A place nobody has ever heard of that causes people to get a quiet and glazed-over look in their eyes. For this reason he just says he’s from Miami, which always elicits a knowing nod, friendly smile, and an occasional “Scarface” reference. He graduated from Northwestern University and from The Actors Studio, majoring in film and creative writing respectively. He has been a reporter for various publications, including The Chicago Tribune and Miami Herald. Due to a myriad of work-related projects he has spent the past year traveling between New York, Florida, and New Mexico.

Tatiana Suarez Pico – Writer/Translator
Tatiana is a New York-based actress with writing aspirations. She has a business degree in Marketing and an MFA in acting. Tatiana is a story contributor, provides the lovely Spanish translations for the comic, and has many jobs to support her love of acting, which has made her poor in the pocket but not in spirit… which is where it counts the most.

Character Bios

Alejandra Christina Lopez
Friendly, energetic, slightly scheming, Ale is the unspoken leader of her the group. She tends to find herself in silly situations but is always able to think her way out of them. She plays herself off as tough, but is not-so-secretly very sensitive and caring. Don’t ever tell her that though, or you might get punched in the face.

Edgar Olof Santos
Edgar is the twin brother of Sven. Edgar is extremely laidback and friendly, but like Sven has an obnoxious joker streak. He’s very good friends with Ale leading most people to believe they like one another (both deny the accusations). Edgar and Sven are of Irish/Swedish and Dominican descent, which accounts for their unusual red hair and Nordic names. Although, he’s the older of the two, Edgar’s easy-going nature usually leaves him vulnerable to jokes from Sven.

Caren Steinburg
Super sweet and super ditsy, she’s Ale’s self-proclaimed best friend. She’s very loyal and will go out of her way to help any of her friends. She comes from a not-really-practicing Jewish family, though her father tries, in vain, to make them attend Synagogue. Caren is known for spacing out, but often she will surprise her friends by making remarkably intelligent observations, which totally go unnoticed by her.

Sven Augustin Santos
Sven is Edgar’s twin. He was born three minutes after Edgar, which gives him a bit of an insecurity complex. Sven is extremely competitive. He comes across as sarcastic and obnoxious but deep down Sven is a very sweet kid. Usually, the only people to see this side of him are girls, whom he treats with unique chivalry. He is a huge practical joker, often using his unsuspecting brother as the butt of his jokes.

Haruko Alia Thomas
Haruko is one of Ale’s closest friends. She’s a self-described tomboy who rarely, if ever, backs away from a challenge. Haruko is exceptionally smart but socially awkward. She tends to say things in the wrong place at the wrong time, often resulting in uncomfortable silences for all others involved. She was raised speaking English and Japanese by her parents and taught herself Spanish, as a hobby, in one month.

Esperanza Angelica Dominguez
Esperanza is Ale’s arch nemesis. She is rich, spoiled, and exceedingly arrogant. She loves to flaunt her money and resources to Ale whenever she can. Espe, as she is known to those close to her, has a crush on Julian, Ale’s older brother. And, much to Ale’s chagrin, she makes a point to drop by to see him. Espe is the head of her group of friends, which include the other rich kids at school.

Maria Christina Lopez
Maria is Ale and Julian’s mother. She works as an “Executive Assistant” in Manhattan. Ale suspects this title is fancy-talk for secretary. When not busy at work, Maria has her hands full running after her two children and somewhat irresponsible husband. She loves to shop and is not-so-secretly addicted to the Home Shopping Network. She can be extremely neurotic when it comes to cleaning and is often found “straightening up” the house.

Hector Gilberto Lopez
Hector us Ale and Julian’s father. He is frequently seen lounging around the house but don’t be fooled, Hector is a successful engineer. He has a carefree personality (in contrast to his high-strung wife) and takes pleasure in spoiling his family, especially, his “Baby” Ale. As a young fool, Hector attended culinary school and is therefore, the primary cook for the family. Hector is always late and will readily evoke “Puerto Rican Time” whenever needed.

Julian Lopez
Ale’s older brother. If he’s not chillin’, playing video games or reading comics, he’s likely causing mayhem with his friends. A slacker and a dork, he’s very popular at school and with the girls. Even though, he and Ale are two years apart, they are very close. Julian will come to Ale’s rescue in times of need… as long as it doesn’t coincide with his video game time!

Check out a clip of Bodega Ave!
CLICK HERE!

Synopsis - Battle of Titans
When money talks will the Lopez family walk? Mega-developer Garth Slaw has moved to Bodega Avenue. And, he has big plans for the block.

As the houses around the neighborhood are bought and vacated, Ale and her family remain the lone holdout. Mr. Slaw presents a plan for ‘TITAN’S UNIVERSE’ (TU), which is going to make the lives of all Brooklynites much easier. No more traveling around to supermarkets, tire shop, pet stores, winery, gourmet restaurants, or roof repairs: all are contained in the 99 acre behemoth that will be built on top of the ‘highly under-utilized’ Evergreen Cemetery between Brooklyn and Queens. TU has been designed by market polling and therefore has everything anyone could possibly want. Ever. It is open all the time. Many residents dream about TU. It is not uncommon to find people sleepwalking to TU, to wake up in the food court with a shish kabob and over $200 in scented candles and herbal tea from Bed, Bath, and Beyond.

What they don’t know is that Mr. Slaw plans to make Ale’s neighborhood a parking lot for Titan’s. Ale only has one choice to save Brooklyn: make Mr. Slaw’s life in the borough a living nightmare. She will drive him to insanity if that’s what it takes. Ale begins a campaign to sabotage Slaw’s house, business, and Stepford family.

For more info check out their website at www.BodegaAve.com

Daily Dose: Ay Dios...Martha Stewart's Paw Paw died....

Let me first say that my condolences go out to Martha Stewart during her time of mourning. My commentary is not to belittle the relationship between a pet and it's owner...it is just me showing how twisted the mainstream media is.

I have been a lil under the weather and yesterday I decided to unplug from any contact with the outside world. I did not bulletin on MySpace, did not update my status on Facebook, all my instant messengers (aim, yahoo and gtalk)were off, turned off my favorite RSS Reader (VIIGO) and I event went so far as to turn my Blackberry Curve off so that I can just get better. Besides coming to the realization that I am too damn connected with the world...I plugged back in this morning to 17 press releases and countless blogs about Martha Stewart's dog Paw Paw losing his battle to renal failure. You can read the AP Post here!

Is this really news? Does anyone really care? Are we that saturated by the media that we are starting to feel "connected" to people we do not even know? Or is this just some twisted publicity stunt for Martha Stewart to appear like she is "normal folk" to get all these women who follow her to buy her products? I actually went to Martha's website and it turns out that she has a section on her blog dedicated to her pets and in her "up close and personal" blog she has a note that reads "UPDATE: Thank you for the many kind words, they are most appreciated. I have added a new picture of Paw Paw's final resting place at the end of this post". After reading her heartfelt blog post (do you think she really wrote it?) I called Latyn Jazz laughing and asked her what is going on in the world in the one day I decided to unplug besides that tragic demise of Martha's Stewart's dog. She jumped off the phone and we both decided to research and tell you what is going on in the real world during this time.

On a side note, I want to congratulate Martha Stewart's PR Team for a spectacular job dominating the news and I want them to know that I will be looking to hire them once my media empire rises to the point that the pets in my home get a section on my website...carajo I cannot even afford a pet.

Here it is...a list of 20 things that is going on while Martha Stewart is mourning Paw Paw. (compiled by Latyn Jazz and yours truly

1. Junot Diaz won a freakin Pulitzer Prize!!!

2. The Pope is visiting the USA

3. Absolut Vodka plans to reconquer the USA...then apologizes for the plot (This is hysterical)

4. VIVA Hollywood is on VH1 so that Maria Conchita Alonso can do for Latinos what Flava Flav did for Blacks...reinforce stereotypes.

5. LAMUSICA.com making big moves with MYSPACE LATINO!

6. In hidden news...Finally, a rise in Latino and Blacks admissions in the University of California system (but does that mean a decline in admission to the penal system?)

7. In The Heights is the hottest ticket on Broadway!

8. PapoSwiggity still can't find his Choopy! How come the media is not trying to rally for that cause? huh? is it because he is BORICUA? Is it because he has ties to progressive Latino orgs in the NYC area? Stay tuned!

9. Capicu Poetry & Cultural Showcase has announced their next show for May 2nd featuring the comedic talent of Cindy SugaRush and countless open mic comedians and poets. Email us at CapicuPoetry@gmail.com for a chance to win free passes.

10. Didn't you read #1?... Junot Diaz ... a freakin Pulitzer!!!

Buen provecho pet lovers!!!

As I am,
The Urban Jibaro

Radio Capicu is back on April 23rd!!!!

East Texas Teenager Attacked Over History Project

The Urban Jibaro wants to know what is up with this?

It was an assignment for history class--to make a protest sign for or against an issue, and Melanie said she chose illegal immigration. Her sign read, "If you love our nation, stop illegal immigration." Somehow, Melanie said the sign got passed around lunch and angered a group of Latino students.

read more | digg story

Daily Dose of Sofrito: MTV Tr3s Unveils New Shows

NEW YORK, April 9, 2008 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Three new original productions that place the world and dreams of young Latinos at the center were announced today by MTV Tr3s . Beginning April 14, MTV Tr3s viewers will find out what it's like to make dinner for a Latino superstar on "Rock Dinner," the moves some viewers will risk for something that really matters to them in "Bust a Ritmo," and how to get a video produced by MTV in "Dame un Break."

Based on feedback from the MTV Tr3s Cooltura Panel, a group of 100 trendsetting young Latinos who provide input and feedback to the channel on programming strategy and content, MTV Tr3s has discovered that its viewers want to see themselves reflected in programming, discover new sounds and artists they can't find anywhere else, and insist on interactivity and engagement as part of their music experience. They also seek an intimate and less traditional approach to music programming.

Our viewers have spoken and we're listening and acting

"At MTV Tr3s, everything we do puts our young Latino consumer at the front and center, and they've told us that Latin music defines them. The sounds, lyrics and artists are the soul of their culture, a source of pride, a unifying force and a form of expression that differentiates them from other youth segments. For this reason, music is at the core of MTV Tr3s," explained Lucia Ballas-Traynor, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the channel.

"Our viewers have spoken and we're listening and acting," added Lily Neumeyer, Vice President of Programming and Production, MTV Tr3s. "Young Latinos expect MTV Tr3s to give them unique and deep connections to the artists they love, and that is what a series like 'Rock Dinner' is all about." In "Rock Dinner", which premieres on April 14 at 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM EDT and features Baby Bash, Awkid, AB Quintanilla, Pitbull, Kat de Luna and Enrique Iglesias, fans get to cook dinner for their favorite artists and then sit down to enjoy a private concert by them. With only five hours (and a limited budget) to prepare the meal and tidy up the house, the excited fan has to stay cool while trying to impress their superstar dinner guest.

What some viewers will do to make a dream come true will be seen in "Bust a Ritmo," which premieres on June 16. Hosted by PeeWee, the road-tested veteran of two successful groups, Kumbia Kings and Kumbia All Starz (with whom he charted hits such as "Sabes a Chocolate," "Dulce Niña," "Chiquilla," and "Speedy Gonzalez") the series focuses on dance as a motivator in helping young Latinos accomplish a goal. In each episode, a young person is faced with an ultimate test. They have one day to learn a complicated dance routine and then use his/her newfound skill to make a dream come true... surprising a girlfriend with a marriage proposal or telling their overprotective Latina mom that they are moving out of the house!

"Being the host of my own show has allowed me to explore new sides of me I didn't know I had... and to be silly... and to just have fun!" said PeeWee.

In addition to the star power MTV Tr3s is able to give its viewers, the discovery of new talent has been a pillar of the MTV Tr3s music strategy since the network launched. "Dame un Break" takes music discovery to a whole new level by not only inviting viewers to discover new sounds, but also giving them a chance to be discovered themselves. The multiplatform project that launches on May 12 gives Latino youth a chance to showcase their talent by entering a contest to win a chance of a lifetime: their very own music video produced by MTV Tr3s, and to get an album or EP released. To enter the contest, bands will to uplink their song to the Dame un Break website , create their own artist profile and invite the world to vote for them.

"Dame un Break will give the wealth of undiscovered U.S. Latino talent the opportunity they've only been able to dream about... until now. I am excited to see and hear some of tomorrow's Latino stars," said Jesus Lara, Senior Vice President of Music and Talent, MTV Tr3s and MTV/VH1 Latin America.

MTV Tr3s is the most widely distributed TV network dedicated to superserving today's bicultural Latino youth and is currently seen in 6.2 million Hispanic TV households and 31.9 million total TV households. Music programming is at the core of MTV Tr3s, and the channel features hitmakers, emerging artists and new sounds that resonate with young U.S. Latinos and celebrate their hybrid identity and culture.

Sponsor Message Meet Millions of local spanish singles for dating, romance, and fun. It's Free and Easy to Join. What are you waiting for? Join now!

Daily Dose of Sofrito: In The Heights on Broadway

Mi Gente, check out this hilarious video spoofing Rihanna's Umbrella! This is a promo announcing "el ticket mas caliente de Broadway"!

Check it out, get those tickets and support the arts!

As I am,
The Urban Jibaro

--------------------

GET READY TO EXPERIENCE an exhilarating journey into one of Manhattan's most vibrant communities, named "BEST MUSICAL OF THE YEAR" by New York Magazine and "BEST OF 2007" by The New York Times. With an amazing cast, incredible dancing and a gripping story of hope and self-discovery, In The Heights is your ticket into a world where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music.

Find out what it takes to make a living, what it costs to have a dream, and what it means to be home...In The Heights.

For more info and to buy tickets, click here!

Unsung Souls: Isabel Garcia

Mi Gente...

On behalf of Sofrito For Your Soul, I am proud to present Ms. Isabel Garcia (Ms New York Plus America 2008) as the January 2008 Unsung Soul recipient. Ms. Garcia is truly a role model for full figured women trying to break the mold of what society percieves as beauty. As an ambassador to this cause, she is able to raise awareness about real issues affecting women in communities worldwide.

As I am,

The Urban Jibaro

Here is her story...

Ms. Garcia is a native New Yorker, born and raised in Brooklyn. Her professional experience includes working in a non-profit serving youth and low-income families and special education. She is currently working toward a degree in special education. .

As Ms. Plus New York she has chosen domestic violence as her platform because of her personal and compelling story of survival and the prevalence of the problem worldwide. When she was 23 years old her boyfriend shot her in the face with a .38 magnum handgun during an argument and left her to die. Prior to this incident he repeatedly abused her. Fortunately, as she recovered from her physical injuries she also gained the emotional strength to tell her story. As part of a universal ministry she has traveled around the world telling her story of survival to hundreds of women in El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Cuba and Israel.

Her motto, "be proud of who you are," is something she communicates to audiences of women: "No matter if you are a size 2 or 20 we are all beautiful and you need to love yourself first then everything else will fall into place." Her message to battered women is "Stay strong and don't dismiss your dreams. To be without dreams is to be without hope. To be without hope is to be without purpose."

Isabel is also an enthusiastic supporter and promoter of the One in Three© campaign. She is helping to spread the word about the important work the organization is doing globally to raise awareness of violence against women and the trauma women suffer when domestic violence is part of their lives.She is also the international spokes person for voices love music tour for victims of Abuse.1 Voice 2gether..Helping Others Find their "Beautiful Wonder " within To Break the Silence!

You can contact her for bookings via MySpace or by calling her Manager, Sonia at 917-577-2878

Ms New York Plus America 2008's Calendar

Jan 12 2008 12:00P
John Perrys Model Club Fashion Show @ Queens NY
Jan 12 2008 6:00P
Curvesity and Phat City Ent.Step to the Mic "Feat.Khari" @ @ KB's 140 Club
Jan 18 2008 9:00A
E-Zones Domestic Violence Me and Khari @ Brooklyn
Jan 18 2008 5:30P
Michael Shane Bridal Show @ Brooklyn
Jan 26 2008 3:00P
Plus Size Academy Openhouse. @ New York
Feb 8 2008 9:00A
Real Women Real Curves Calendar Photo Shoot @ Louisville Kentucky
Feb 9 2008 9:00A
Real Women Real Curves Calendar Photo Shoot @ Louisville Kentucky
Feb 10 2008 9:00A
Real Women Real Curves Calendar Photo Shoot @ Louisville Kentucky

Unsung Soul Award
The idea for this award was concieved as a tribute to Latinos making a difference in our community everyday. It is inspired by two very amazing people in my life. The first is my grandmother, Gloria Delrio who was a dedicated community advocate for the elderly community in Brooklyn for over 30 years before she retired The second is the late former Young Lord Richie Perez, a community activist that fought against police brutality for people of color...and personally served as a spiritual and political mentor to me since the age of 15.


Do you know an unsung soul?

Whether that community is the barrio...the suburbs...college...as long as that person or group's actions impacts our people in a positive...they too, may be an Unsung Soul.

If you are interested in nominating an individual or organization for this award please contact us at SofritoSubmissions@gmail.com and let us know why they should be recognized as a Unsung Soul.

Mi Gente...Today is Three Kings Day!

Saludos...

As a Boricua, I have recently began to miss one of the great traditions of my childhood...Dia De Los Reyes. Now I know that many Latinos in the US, primarily 2nd and 3rd Generation do not observe this holiday...but I felt it important enough to share with those that remember, hoping that they will not let Santa be the only thing our children look forward to on during las fiestas navidenas.

The art featured in this post is that of Olga Ayala, please support her by visiting her link and buying some of the beautiful work she creates.

Felicidades en este Dia de los Reyes!

As I am,
The Urban Jibaro.

---------------------------------------------------------
Three Kings Day
(source Wikipedia)

In Spain, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico and some other Latin American countries Epiphany day is called El Día de los Reyes (The Day of the Kings). The day when a group of Kings or Magi of the Bible arrived to worship and bring three gifts to the baby Jesus after following a star in the heavens. This day is sometimes known as the Día de los Tres Reyes Magos (The day of the Three Royal Magi) or La Pascua de los Negros (Holy Day of the Blackmen) in Chile, although the latter is rarely heard. In Spanish tradition, on the day of January 6th, three of the Kings: Melchor, Caspar, and Balthazar, representing Europe, Arabia, and Africa, arrived on horse, camel and elephant, bringing respectively gold, frankincense and myrrh to the baby Jesus.

In Spain, Argentina, and Uruguay, children (and many adults) polish and leave their shoes ready for the Kings' presents before they go to bed on 5 January. Sweet wine, nibbles, fruit and milk are left for the Kings and their camels. In Mexico, it is traditional for children to leave their shoes on the eve of January 6 by the family nativity scene or by their beds. Also a letter with toy requests is left and sometimes the shoes are filled with hay for the camels, so that the Kings will be generous with their gifts. In Puerto Rico, it is traditional for children to fill a box with grass or hay and put it underneath their bed, for the same reasons. In some parts of northern Mexico the shoes are left under the Christmas tree with a letter to the Three Kings. This is analogous to children leaving mince pies or cookies and milk out for Father Christmas in Western Europe.

In the afternoon or evening of the same day the ritual of the Rosca de Reyes is shared with family and friends. The Rosca is a type of sweet-bread made with orange blossom water and butter, and decorated with candied fruit. Baked inside is a small doll representing the baby Jesus. The person who finds the doll in his piece of rosca must throw a party on February 2nd, "Candelaria Day," offering tamales and atole (a hot sweet drink thickened with corn flour) to the guests. In Spain, the bread is known as Roscón; made with the same items, traditionally the roscón was simply a round sweetbread with candied fruit on top, however, recently, different flavoured whipped creams are used as filling. The 'Jesus' doll evolved into a small toy similar to a Kinder Surprise it also includes a bean. The person who gets the toy is then crowned king for the day, while the person who finds the bean is responsible for paying for the Roscon.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Read more about Olga Ayala here on Sofrito For Your Soul!
Nuestra Arte: Hecho A Mano con Olga Ayala

or you can contact her at:

OLGA AYALA
HANDICRAFTS (HECHO A MANO)
Functional Art In Polymer
(718) 448-0730
(718) 709-6574 cell
http://www.olgaayala.zoomshare.com
http://www.myspace.com/prpetite

Daily Dose: Radio Capicu returns!

Radio Capicu's new season starts January 16th!

Radio Capicu hosted by Capicu Co-Founder George "Urban Jibaro" Torres and Javier "The Guy" Ramirez promises to keep listeners captivated with the latest in news and information about cultural events and items of interest in the Latino / Urban community nationwide. Segments will include open mic poetry, in depth interviews and discussions with prominent people in our community about issues relevant to the evolution of our culture as well as the preservation of our heritage.

First things first.. what does it mean? In the game of Dominos, el Capicu is a very special winning piece that covers all ends, it is the ultimate finishing move. Any piece can become the Capicu, with the right mixture of skill and fate. The Fichas (as dominos are sometimes called) is often slammed down on the table for emphasis, in celebration!

Click here to listen to Radio Capicu

Brooklyn Cheers The Pa'l Pueblo Charity Event For Kids!

SofritoWire: December 2007
This year, not only does Santa Claus wear a Pava in Brooklyn, he definitely dances to hot salsa!

The Pa'l Pueblo Charity event held on Friday December 14th 2007; what an incredible success story! So many talented artists of different disciplines took the stage to stand in solidarity with the Capicu Poetry commitment to giving back to the community. Over a hundred kids had a Christmas this year due directly to our Pa'l Pueblo event.

The stage was set for a full scale parranda celebration. The native congas of Notice Lounge were now in the company of magnificent band instruments awaiting their masters calls.

At the door, you were greeted by the warm smiling faces of Bushwick United Headstart volunteers and their Family Coordinator, Jessica Arocho who would take your donations, answer any questions about the event and direct you to the heated trays of delicious arroz, pollo y pernil which were available all night for guests.

On a wall near the stage, one would see large posters of some of our event sponsors, Phi Iota Alpha, American Latino TV, and 5 Star Events.

As one looked around the lounge and saw all the familiar faces of the immediate neighborhood, most of which have never seen anything like Capicu Poetry in their whole lives in Brooklyn, right away we knew that this would indeed be a powerful, significant step towards our goal of community engagement and service. This is what the Pa'l Pueblo Charity represents. This is what we are about.

Showtime. After thanking our sponsors and our staff, Urban Jibaro introduced the evening by saying that due to the budget, we would be celebrating Noche Buena, Navidad, Ano Nuevo and Dia de Los Reyes all rolled up in one night, to which the crowd laughed and applauded. Jibaro introduces the Master Of Ceremony PaPo Swiggity, who immediately gets to work to whip the full house into a frenzy.

Here are some lines from the opening salvo:

"Let me tell you about this rumor I heard today,
I'm bringing you the best bochinche in NYC, uncut.
Are you guys ready for what I found out about cuz it's tssssss hot..

Here it is.. (points to a man in the crowd, asks his name)
I heard that YOU are an ACTIVIST.
(does the same with 2 more people around the room)
The allegations are that tonight you aligned yourself with the
progressive Capicu movement.. yes! You, a Community Activist! An agent
of change. Think not? if you made a donation today, of toys, money, or time..
put your hands up for me. If you are a sponsor of this event, or an artist,
musician, or brought someone with you, thus making you a
promoter.. put your hands up. By your participation, you are directly
responsible for the positive emotional welfare of a child in Brooklyn
who otherwise may not have had a holiday this year, so give yourselves
a round of applause! And we're not stopping here, are we?"

PaPo then tells the crowd that they are now infused with the spirit of the Civil Rights Era Black Panthers, Brown Berets and Young Lords who were all about assuring community control, and gets them to pump their
fist into the air and yell out "Pa'l Pueblo!" and "Capicu!" What a sight.

The energy was high, and right away the stage bursts into live parranda
music by the legendary Joe Falcón & the Coco Rico band. Falcón's bass guitar stood as tall and proud as he, as they swayed together to form the rhythmic dance of music making. We were certainly not surprised that salsa dancing broke out in the middle of the party, as this is becoming a ritual of the Capicu community since MelleSol and Canella had their salsa dance-off in September.

The range of artists was astounding. Conscious hip hop, reggaeton, poetry, comedy, salsa y parranda, Taino art and revolutionary urban art. All delivered as promised by Capicu Poetry, making them indeed the Capicu Cultural Showcase. There were music performances by Peruvian female hip hop artist IllFamed, the hip hop poet OL SoUL who set spoken word to a hip hop beat, a reggaeton performance by La Vision and stand up comedy by Edgar Rivera (of Tangana Comedy; Nuyorican Poets Cafe). Our Poetry session included powerful spoken word by Blaze-A-Page, poet/musician Bonafide Rojas of The Mona Passage, Brooklyn's own Conan, Canella ("but he is not a poet") and poet/painter/playwright (from the Dominican Republic) Yubelky Rodriguez.

We were also honored to feature the urban fashion of 1Soul Designs, a fellow progressive Brooklyn Boricua company which challenges the media, fashion industry, and implements programs for neighborhood High School teens (and, in fact, throughout Latin America) to learn the fashion craft.

More highlights of the evening included the spontaneous collaboration of Edwin Berroa (of 5 Star Events) playing congas with Coco Rico, comedian Edgar Rivera's hysterical performance as he poked fun at the crowd, The Taino Godfather Kahayarix (of Despierta Boricua) coming through with big red bags full of toys! They came from a host of organizations connected to Kahayarix and Taino Spirit from the Lower East Side to Yonkers. Last but not least, artists Reina Miranda & Aguilar Marrero (from Taino Spirit) raffling off their hand painted Taino themed denim jackets. This stunning artwork helped Capicu Poetry raise an additional $400.00 to buy toys for the Bushwick United kids, and we thank them deeply for showing such strong support for the kids and offering their creations to our public.

Indeed, a magical night in a sense, if you consider a handful of people set out to bring Christmas to over 100 kids, and to have done so succesfully. We want to thank all who showed support, and we'll see you at our New Years Open Mic on Friday, January 18th, 2008. Happy Holidays to you and yours from the staff at Capicu Poetry!

Note:
This event was made possible via sponsorships from the following
entities, Notice Lounge, LatiNation, American Latino TV,
SofritoForYourSoul.com, Blaze – A Page Graphics, 5 Star Events, Phi
Iota Alpha Fraternity Inc, Hermandad De Sigma Iota Alpha Sorority Inc,
Exit Studios, Boricuation.com, Aguilar Marerro & Reina Miranda from
Taino Spirit, The United Confederation of Taino People, Raul Rios from
Despierta Boricua, Pathmark, Rachael Strauss (People in Espanol) and
FutuVision.

SUPPORT SOFRITO FOR YOUR SOUL!

We need your help to keep Sofrito For Your Soul on the web!

Thank you for your interest in preserving our culture. Supporting Sofrito For Your Soul helps us to continue to bring quality information and programming to the Latino community, a mission we have been committed to for over 10 years.

One of our biggest aspirations is to take Sofrito For Your Soul beyond the scope of the internet and integrate with other means of communication. Great examples of this is our new Blog Talk Radio Show, RADIO CAPICU and our partnership with Espacio Latino in creating a premier venue for cultural expression in Brooklyn, NY called CAPICU POETRY & CULTURAL SHOWCASE. 

Your support will help us provide a variety of of education and outreach services that will take our commitment beyond the website and directly address needs in the community. We still need to reach those who may not have access to the internet.

Donations from supporters like you represent the single largest source of support for our website. Your support can take many forms, for example;

• Financial Donations (see secure Chip In form below)
• Advertising with Sofrito For Your Soul
• Article / Content Submissions
• Sponsorship of Educational / Collegiate Events
• Volunteering at Sponsored Events
• Becoming an Advocate for Cultural Expression

Thank you for empowering us to continue to enrich the lives of all those looking to feed their souls with the best of Latino culture on the web!

For more information on how you can help, contact us at SofritoMediaGroup@gmail.com

LOSE CONTROL TV

In the city that never sleeps there is never a shortage of things to do...but with a night off the regular Capicu Cultural Showcase show, my business partner Paposwiggity and I decided to hit up the Broadway Comedy Club to experience Lose Control.

So we roll up to the club not really knowing what to expect...and before you know it, Andres " Chulisi" Rodriguez begins to acknowledge us as well as other guests. Almost instantly his take control comedic personality starts interacting with all of his guests in a very unique way. Although he is talking to (you) and making the experience very personal, he does so in a way that does not alienate the rest of the audience. His hosting style completely sets the stage for what is going to come next...just simply some of the funniest sketch comedy you will see. The humor is derived from familiarity...if you are Latino, you cannot walk out of this show not seeing someone in your family. I know I saw like my whole mother's side of the family.

The show was off the hook with sketches like HOOK/SHOOK UP which shows you what can happen if you put Latinos on an anglo show like Change of Heart. THE INTERVENTION which was a Latino family trying to get help for a Latino...that is just TOO LATINO and has never assimilated to American culture. (I have an uncle like that...noooo joke). LATINOS ANONYMOUS (featured clip) which highlights a woman addicted to stealing souvenirs and capias from parties, a man addicted to lottery scratchoffs as well as a woman addicted to Novelas who actually looks like she is living one.

What is unique about this show (which actually reminds me of In Living Color meets House of Buggin) is that it reflects who I am as a Latino...young, bilingual and very diverse in cultural experiences. The show combines comedy with heavy doses of music, dance and poetry. That combination of elements really helps demonstrate the richness of our culture which is celebrated but also deals with real life experiences which may not be so pleasant. it also really allows the comedic actors to really showcase a multifaceted portfolio of talents. The featured performers that night were Caroline Hulsc, Yaritza Prendergrast, Nixaliz Rojas, Hector Lopez, Jazmine Villegas, Jerry Diaz, Jaime Fernandez. There is soooo much more to this show... and it is more than what I can possibly describe in this article . After talking to some regulars I realized that unlike other comedy troupes, Lose Control actually makes sure that every time you come to show...the experience is different. Just like an actual TV show...you get your doses of Lose Control in seasons.

Aside from the show, the venue was really conducive of what the show brings to the stage. The Broadway Comedy Club is conveniently located in the Broadway Theatre District. The club is known for featuring comics who have appeared on Letterman, The Tonight Show, Saturday Night Live, Mad TV, Conan O'Brien, HBO, Showtime, Comedy Central, and/or BET. The bar has a great drink menu and the drinks are average price for a NYC hotspot but are bigger than your average bar drinks (did someone say 20oz Pina Coladas?) and a great assortment of finger foods.

Again...in order for you to get a taste of Lose Control's Comedic Sancocho...you will have to go down their personally. There is a $15.00 cover charge and a Two Drink Minimum. If you have a friend with you who is having a birthday...let the host know and get your cameras ready! I do not have a scoring system for reviewing shows but if I did I would give Lose Control 5 Quenepas!

The Broadway Comedy Club is located at 318 W. 53rd St. , right off the corner of Eighth Avenue and in the heart of the Broadway Theater District.

Their next two shows are July 13th and July 27th...All shows start at 7pm sharp!!!

For More Info about Lose Control click here or see them on My Space

Check out this Latinos Anonymous Clip!!!