2011 Aetna Latino Calendar

Aetna Latino Calendar Dancing to be healthy

al ritmo de tu salud

20 11 20 11 Siente el ritmo de la salud

¡Imagínate lo bien que te sentirías si vivieras tu La evolución – y la revolución – del baile forman parte vida como un inmenso baile! integral de la cultura general de este país, inspirando cada día a más y más personas a vivir los efectos Los trece individuos que presentamos en el calendario positivos que tiene el baile sobre el cuerpo, la mente, latino 2011 de Aetna se han dedicado a mejorar su y el espíritu. Como dice Anita Martinez, “el baile es salud, así como el bienestar de sus comunidades por el instrumento más perfecto para desarrollar un medio de la danza. Algunos bailan para ganarse la cuerpo saludable”. vida, y otros supervisan programas para el bienestar basados en el baile. En Aetna nos enorgullecemos en presentar nuestro cuarto calendario latino, celebrando como el baile Muchos de los artistas aprendieron sus primeros pasos latino motiva a individuos y comunidades por igual de baile siendo niños, y viven su pasión explorando y a descubrir y vivir un estilo de vida al ritmo de la compartiendo su arte y su talento. diversión... y de la salud.

Por medio de su trabajo comunitario, han inspirado por igual a niños, adultos y personas de la tercera edad a mantenerse activos y a mover sus cuerpos como jamás lo hubieran imaginado.

al ritmo de tu salud

Feel the Rhythm of Health

Imagine how confident and healthy you might Through their collective work, they have inspired feel if you never let a dance go by! children, adults and seniors to think on their feet and move their bodies in ways they never thought possible. Thirteen individuals featured in the 2011 Aetna Latino Calendar have committed to improving their own The dance revolution has taken its place on the front health and the wellness of their communities through line of pop culture. This encourages more people to dance. Some dance for a living, while others oversee experience firsthand the positive therapeutic effects of dance and fitness programs. dance on the body, mind and soul. As Anita N. Marti- nez shares, “Dance is the most perfect instrument to Many of the performing artists took their first build a healthy body.” dance steps as children, and fulfilled their passions by exploring their craft and talent. Aetna is pleased to present its fourth annual Latino Calendar celebrating how Latin dance motivates individuals and communities to discover and embrace a fun, healthful rhythm. Anita Nañez Martinez Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, Inc. Dallas, TX

Anita Nañez Martinez era una tejana tímida cuya familia emigró de México a los Estados Unidos hace cinco generaciones; pero cuando aprendió a bailar descubrió la confianza en si misma. A los ocho años de edad, participaba en representaciones de danza teatral con otros niños del vecindario en la agrupación “Little Mexico” de Dallas.

“El baile es el instrumento perfecto para construir un cuerpo sano. Nutre la mente y el alma. La danza transmite felicidad al corazón y a los demás”, dijo Martinez. “Ha sido una constante en mi vida”.

Martinez quería motivar a los jóvenes en el oeste de Dallas. En 1975, comenzó a ofrecer clases de baile folclórico en un centro de recreación de Dallas, que ahora lleva su nombre. “Quería darles la oportunidad de enorgullecerse de su herencia y cultura”, dijo. “Así que les traje música y danza.”

Sus clases han crecido hasta convertirse en un renombrado grupo profesional de ballet folclórico que se presenta regularmente en el AT&T Performing Arts Center en Dallas.

“Hay mucha gente que apoya nuestro trabajo”, dijo Martinez. Por ejemplo, Communities Foundation of Texas donó a la organización un edificio que tiene 100 años de antigüedad. Este edificio se convirtió en el lugar fijo para realizar los ensayos y presentaciones de bailarines de distintos niveles, desde novatos hasta profesionales.

En su papel de voluntaria activa y recaudadora de fondos, Martinez está feliz de poder tener un impacto tan positivo en la vida de miles de niños latinos. “Los padres ven cómo sus hijos desarrollan disciplina, la práctica de trabajar en equipo e incluso obtienen mejores calificaciones en la Los padres ven cómo sus hijos desarrollan escuela cuando bailan”, explicó. “Cuando se le imparte a un niño disciplina, la práctica de trabajar en equipo e confianza en si mismo, se le entrega el mundo”. incluso obtienen mejores calificaciones en la escuela cuando bailan”.

– Anita Nañez Martinez 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD La buena postura puede ayudarte a bailar mejor. Mantente derecho, empuja tus hombros hacia abajo enero/January y hacia atrás, y mantén tu cabeza en alto. HEALTH TIP Good posture can help you become a better dancer. Stand up straight, push your shoulders down and back, and hold your head up. dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 New Year’s Day Anita Nañez Martinez was a bashful fifth-generation Texan who found

Liberation Day confidence once she learned how to dance. At 8 years old, she would (Cuba) perform dance theatre with other neighborhood children in Dallas’ “Little Mexico.”

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 “Dance is the perfect instrument to build a healthy body. It nurtures the mind and the soul. It brings happiness into the heart and onto others,” Make a commitment Three Kings Day said Martinez. “It has been a constant part of my life.” now to achieve and maintain a healthful weight. Martinez wanted to motivate young people in West Dallas. In 1975, she began offering folklorico dance classes in a Dallas recreation center, which now bears her name. “I wanted to give them a chance to be proud of 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 their heritage and culture,” she said. “So I brought the music and the dance to them.” Schedule a medical Begin a dance exercise checkup with your program this month. doctor this week. Check with your doctor before starting. Today, her classes have grown into a renowned educational performing dance organization that is a resident company at the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas.

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 “There are a lot of people who believe in what we’re doing,” said Rev. Dr. Martin Luther Martinez, including Communities Foundation of Texas, which donated King Jr. Birthday Observed (U.S) a 100-year-old building to the organization. The building became a permanent place for the young and professional dancers to rehearse and perform.

23 24 25 26 27 28 29 As an active volunteer and fund-raiser, Martinez is thrilled she has been able to positively impact the lives of thousands of Latino children. Give the gift of life this month. “Parents see how their children find discipline, practice teamwork and 30 31 Donate blood. even get better grades in school when they are dancing,” she said. “When you give a child confidence, you give them the world.”

“Parents see how their children find discipline, practice teamwork and even get better grades in school when they are dancing.” – Anita Nañez Martinez

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Luis Salgado Founder, R.Evolución Latina New York, NY

A juzgar por su aspecto actual, sería imposible imaginar que Luis Salgado, un coreógrafo muy respetado de Broadway y en excelente condición física fue una vez un niño gordito. Descubrió el baile en un programa en las tardes después de la escuela en Puerto Rico. Ése fue el comienzo de su trayectoria por vivir y compartir su pasión por las artes.

A los 17 años, abrió su primera escuela de danza, que dirigió durante cinco años antes de mudarse a Nueva York. “Después de ver un espectáculo de Broadway, cai en cuenta que tenía que vivir ahí”, dijo.

A pesar de que sus raíces artísticas combinan el jazz con los ritmos latinos, Salgado quería experimentar una variedad de géneros musicales en Nueva York. Descubrió, sin embargo, que se necesitaban maestros de bailes latinos. Consiguió un trabajo dirigiendo la coreografía latina para el musical de Broadway In the Heights. “Nadie puede negar nuestra cultura latina”, dijo. “La música y el ritmo están en nuestros corazones”.

Después, Salgado fundó R.Evolución Latina, una alianza de artistas en Broadway que asesoran y enseñan a jóvenes latinos. “Queremos que los estudiantes superen sus inseguridades y dudas por medio del baile”, dijo. “Nosotros les simplificamos el proceso y los dirigimos paso a paso. En realidad es una revolución de la evolución, y nuestra mayor arma es el arte”.

Además de visitar las escuelas durante todo el año, Salgado y su compañía tienen un campamento juvenil de verano gratis. “Lo hermoso del baile es que sus beneficios para la salud vienen naturalmente. Los músculos trabajan. Se queman calorías. Ayudamos a los niños a estar más conscientes de lo que sienten sus cuerpos mientras bailan”, dijo.

“Queremos que los estudiantes sobrepasen sus inseguridades y sus

dudas por medio del baile”.

– Luis Salgado

20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Sonríe mientras bailas, aun si bailas solo. ¡Te gusta bailar, así que demuéstralo!

HEALTH TIP Smile while you are dancing, even if you are dancing alone. febrero/February You love to dance, so let it show!

dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 2 3 4 5 Looking at Luis Salgado today you would never know that the Give Kids a Smile Day. Mexican Don’t forget to Constitution Day well-respected and physically fit Broadway choreographer was a chubby schedule a dental child. He discovered dance at an after-school program in Puerto Rico. appointment for your child. This was the beginning of his journey to fulfill and share his passion for the arts. 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 At age 17, he opened his first dance school, which he ran for five years before coming to New York City. “After seeing a Broadway show, Remember to brush your teeth twice a I realized this was where I needed to be,” he said. day – it will make your smile brighter and keep your mouth healthier. Though his dancing roots fused the flair of jazz with Latin rhythm, Salgado wanted to experience a variety of genres in the city. He discovered, though, there was a need for Latin dance teachers. He landed a job 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 leading the Latin choreography for the Broadway musical In the Heights. Get your blood “No one can deny who we are as Latinos,” he said. “It’s in our hearts – pumping – get up and move around. the music and the rhythm.”

Salgado then founded R.Evolución Latina, an alliance of Broadway performing artists who mentor young Latinos. “We challenge students to go beyond their insecurities and doubts through dance,” he said. 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 “We break it down for them and take it step by step. It really is a Presidents’ Day Know your numbers. (U.S. and Puerto Rico) Get your blood pressure revolution of evolution, and our biggest weapon is the arts.” checked today.

Besides visiting schools throughout the year, Salgado and his company host a free youth summer camp. “The beauty of dance is that healthful benefits come naturally. Muscles are engaging. Calories are burning. We 27 28 help kids become more aware of the sensations they are feeling in their Dominican Republic bodies when they dance,” he said. Independence Day

“We challenge students to go beyond their insecurities and doubts through dance.” – Luis Salgado

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Vanessa Calderón-Rosado Chief Executive Officer, Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción Villa Victoria Center for the Arts Boston, MA

Todo empezó hace unos años, cuando varias mujeres latinas de la tercera edad decidieron juntarse para bailar con el fin de mantenerse en forma y saludables. Hoy en día, esta agrupación atrae a grandes multitudes hacia sus presentaciones en Boston.

El grupo, Las Pleneras de la Villa, está compuesto por mujeres de la comunidad, mayores de 55 años. No tienen educación formal en danza; sin embargo, se reúnen cada semana para practicar los bailes, y también suelen cantar. Además, las integrantes elaboran su propio vestuario. Las Pleneras de la Villa presentan danzas tradicionales de Puerto Rico como la plena y la bomba en eventos y festivales en la ciudad.

“Es muy inspirador ver a estas mujeres bailar. ¡Tienen tanta pasión!”, dijo Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, Directora general de la organización comunitaria Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (“IBA”). “Son famosas en toda la ciudad. El baile les ha dado a muchas un nuevo significado en sus vidas”.

Las Pleneras de la Villa comenzó como parte de la programación artística de IBA y su Villa Victoria Center for the Arts, un centro multifuncional para las artes que promueve las artes latinas, y proporciona educación artística y otros programas asequibles para todos. Algunos de los cursos de IBA tienen como objetivo mantener a las personas de la tercera edad activas por medio del baile y la música.

El grupo surgió como parte de la programación de IBA para las personas de la tercera edad, cuando María Flores, una residente de la comunidad, decidió reunir y organizar a aquellas damas que disfrutaban del baile.

“El baile las fortalece sicológica y físicamente. Incluso, una de ellas ha perdido mucho peso. Pero todas también se han beneficiado desde el punto de vista emocional y social”, dijo Calderón-Rosado. “El arte puede reafirmar la identidad cultural y el orgullo del latino, y puede “El grupo ejemplifica los criterios y objetivos de IBA”, explicó. “El arte utilizarse como una herramienta para edificar una comunidad”. puede reafirmar la identidad cultural y el orgullo del latino, y puede – Vanessa Calderón-Rosado utilizarse como una herramienta para edificar una comunidad”. 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD El baile puede reducir el riesgo de enfermedades de las arterias coronarias y del corazón, y puede también bajar marzo/March tu presión arterial. HEALTH TIP Dancing can lower your risk of coronary heart disease and decrease blood pressure.

dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 2 3 4 5 Eat a balanced diet, It started a few years ago when a group of senior Latina women danced including five helpings of fruits and vegetables together to stay in shape and be healthy. Today, the group draws large a day. crowds at their performances throughout Boston.

The group, called Las Pleneras de la Villa, is made up of local women 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 55 and older. They have no formal background in dance. Yet they meet every week to practice their dance steps. They usually sing along as well. Make sure your children Ash Wednesday start their day with a Members make their own costumes. They perform traditional Puerto Rican healthful, well-balanced dances such as the plena and bomba at events and festivals in the city. breakfast! “It is so inspiring to see these women perform. They have such passion,” said Vanessa Calderón-Rosado, CEO of the community-building 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 organization Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción (IBA). “They have become

See your doctor or popular all over the city. It has given many of their lives new meaning.” other health care provider for a routine health screening. Las Pleneras de la Villa began as part of IBA’s arts programming and its Villa Victoria Center for the Arts, a multifunctional arts center that promotes Latino arts, and provides affordable arts education and programs. Some of IBA’s programs aim to get seniors active through 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 dance and music. Birth of Benito Juarez Abolition Day (Mexico) (Puerto Rico) The group grew out of IBA’s senior programming, when community member María Flores decided to organize senior women who enjoyed dancing into a formal troupe.

27 28 29 30 31 “Dancing has made them feel empowered. They have benefited Eat an apple instead physically. One member even lost a lot of weight. But they also have of chips with your benefited emotionally and socially,” said Calderón-Rosado. lunch today!

“The group exemplifies what IBA believes,” she continued. “The arts can reaffirm Latino cultural identity and pride, and can be used as a tool to build community.” “The arts can reaffirm Latino cultural identity and pride, and can be used as a tool to build community.” – Vanessa Calderón-Rosado

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Betsy Dopico Zumba® Fitness and Zumbatomic® Instructor Dance. Art. Fitness. Studio Miami, FL

Cuando Betsy Dopico acudió a su primera clase de Zumba Fitness mientras vivía en Mexico, el programa la intrigó. Pero cuando se enteró de que existía una versión de ese programa de ejercicios bailables para niños llamada “Zumbatomic”, se inspiró.

“Fue maravilloso ver que había un programa divertido para que los jóvenes disfrutaran hacer ejercicio”, dijo Dopico, quien ahora enseña ambas clases de Zumba en su estudio llamado Dance. Art. Fitness. Studio en Miami, Florida.

Zumba Fitness incorpora estilos de baile y ritmos latinos e internacionales en un intenso programa de entrenamiento por intervalos. Zumbatomic mezcla los movimientos básicos del programa con ejercicios entretenidos y seguros para los niños.

“Los niños trabajan juntos en una rutina de baile mientras aprenden diferentes ritmos y pasos. Aprenden cumbia, salsa, merengue y más”, explicó Dopico. “Para ellos es jugar y bailar, y no es ejercicio”.

Dopico da clases de Zumbatomic en su estudio a niños entre los cinco y 13 años de edad dos veces por semana. “He visto cómo muchos niños han perdido peso al tomar mi clase. Los padres también me dicen que sus hijos tienen más confianza en si mismos – bailan en todas partes, y son más sociables”, dijo.

Dopico valora los importantes vínculos que hay entre la danza, el ejercicio y el bienestar emocional, ya que gracias al baile pudo sentirse como en casa después de mudarse de su Cuba natal a México y después a Miami. “Fue maravilloso ver que había un programa “Al principio cuando me mudé me era difícil bailar”, dijo. “Pero cuando me encontré con el programa Zumba, empecé a hacerlo de nuevo, y me divertido para que los jóvenes disfrutaran hizo sentirme conectada a mi cultura. Me inspiró, y quiero ofrecer esa hacer ejercicio”. misma inspiración a otros”. – Betsy Dopico 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD El baile promueve la buena salud de los huesos y puede fortalecer tus piernas y caderas. HEALTH TIP abril/April Dancing promotes bone health, and can strengthen the bones of your legs and hips.

dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 2 When Betsy Dopico first took a Zumba Fitness class while living in Stop by your local police department to have Mexico, she was intrigued. But when she learned about the kids-focused your child’s car seat version of the dance fitness program called Zumbatomic, she was inspired. installation inspected.

“It was wonderful to see that there was a fun program for young people that makes exercise enjoyable,” said Dopico, who now teaches both 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Zumba programs at her Dance. Art. Fitness. Studio in Miami, Florida. When was the last time you saw your dentist? Zumba Fitness incorporates Latin and international dance styles and Is it time for your yearly rhythms in a calorie-burning interval-training program. Zumbatomic cleaning? mixes the core program’s moves with fun and safe exercises for kids.

“Kids get to work together on a routine while learning different rhythms 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 and steps. They learn the and more,” Dopico said. cumbia, salsa, merengue Prepare healthful meals “They think of it as playing and dancing, not as exercising.” with your children. Teach them about smart food choices. Dopico teaches Zumbatomic twice a week in her studio to children ages 5 to 13. “I’ve had many children lose weight from taking my class. Parents also tell me that their children are more confident – they dance everywhere, and they are more social,” she said. 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Palm Sunday Small steps add up – Good Friday take the stairs instead Dopico recognizes the important links between dancing, fitness and of an elevator today. emotional well-being because it was dancing that made her feel at home again after moving from her native Cuba to Mexico and then to Miami.

“When I first moved, it was hard for me to dance,” she said. “But when 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 I found the Zumba program, I started to dance again. It made me feel Easter Children’s Day connected to my culture. I was inspired. And I want to provide that (Mexico) inspiration to others.”

“It was wonderful to see that there was a fun program for young people that makes exercise enjoyable.” – Betsy Dopico

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Luis Martinez Artistic Director, Kean Dance Theatre, and Associate Professor, Physical Education and Recreation Health Kean University Union, NJ

Luis Martinez se guía por las palabras que su padre le impartió siendo niño: “La vida es demasiado corta como para dejar pasar un baile.”

A una edad temprana descubrió el baile, pero empezó a interesarse en el baile teatral a la edad de cinco años después de ver West Side Story. Años más tarde en la Universidad de Illinois, inició su trayectoria con el fin de alcanzar sus sueños. Hoy en día, comparte su pasión por el baile con sus alumnos de Kean University, donde además dirige la agrupación de baile teatral y ejerce como asesor de “Ritmo Latino”, un club estudiantil de estudios y bailes latinos.

Los beneficios de la danza son infinitos, dice Martinez, tras indicar que estudios científicos publicados en el “New England Journal of Medicine” han demostrado que el baile mejora la salud mental, física y emocional.

“El baile es una actividad con múltiples facetas simultáneas. Tu cerebro y tu mente tienen que ser flexibles. Tienes que pensar mientras bailas. Tienes que aprender y memorizar las rutinas, y después bailar mientras proyectas una amplia gama de expresiones”, dijo.

Algunos de los beneficios que imparte el baile a la salud, dijo, incluyen la reducción del estrés, el aumento de los niveles de energía, el mejoramiento del tono, flexibilidad y coordinación muscular mientras quemas calorías, y la disminución de la presión arterial y de los niveles de colesterol. “Esto es especialmente importante para las comunidades latinas, donde la presión arterial alta y el colesterol alto son más frecuentes”, dijo Martinez.

Para ayudar a los nuevos estudiantes a sobrepasar el miedo de bailar, “Les digo que cada quien tiene su propio ritmo. Martinez anima a los estudiantes a no juzgarse a sí mismos. “Les digo que cada quien tiene su propio ritmo. Disfrútalo. Sé constante y fíjate una Disfrútalo. Sé constante y fíjate una meta”. meta”, dijo.

– Luis Martinez 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Para bailar tienes que memorizar pasos y colaborar con tu pareja, lo cual te presenta retos que ayudan a mantener mayo/May ágil a tu mente. HEALTH TIP Dancing requires memorizing steps and working with a partner, both of which provide mental challenges that are crucial for brain health. dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Cinco de Mayo Protect your eyes. Luis Martinez lives by the words his father shared with him while growing Wear those shades! up: “Life is too short to let a dance go by.”

He was introduced to dance at a young age, but he became intrigued with theatrical dance at age 5 after watching West Side Story. Years 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 later at the University of Illinois, he began to pursue his dancing dream. Today, he shares his joy of dancing with the students he teaches at Mother’s Day National Women’s Kean University, where he also directs the dance theatre and serves as Checkup Day. Don’t forget to make an the advisor to Ritmo Latino, a student club that studies and performs appointment for a checkup with your Latin dance. health care provider. The benefits of dance are endless, according to Martinez, citing that 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 scientific studies published in theNew England Journal of Medicine

Paraguay Cuba have shown that dance improves mental, physical and emotional health. Independence Day Independence Day “Dance is a multitasking activity. Your brain and your mind have to be flexible. You have to think on your feet. You have to learn and memorize routines, and then perform them with a varied range of expression,” he said. 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Revolution Day Have you made that Some of the healthful benefits of dance, he said, include reducing (Argentina) appointment for an eye exam? stress; increasing energy levels; improving muscle tone, flexibility, and coordination while burning calories; and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. “This is especially important for Latino communities, where high blood pressure and high cholesterol are more prevalent,” 29 30 31 said Martinez. Memorial Day Observed Thought for the day: You can’t be unhappy To help new students overcome the fear of dance, Martinez encourages when you’re smiling or singing. students not to judge themselves. “I let them know that we each have our own drumbeat and pace. Enjoy it. Be consistent and set a goal for yourself,” he said.

“I let them know that we each have our own drumbeat and pace. Enjoy it. Be consistent and set a goal for yourself.” – Luis Martinez

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Salud Leon and Sergio Leal Directors, Latin Dance Pro Pasadena, CA

Para Salud Leon y Sergio Leal, la danza es más que un pasatiempo. Es una manera de vivir.

“El baile ha cambiado todos los aspectos de nuestras vidas de la manera más positiva”, dijo Leon. “Compartimos la pasión por la danza, y nos ganamos la vida con ella. Nuestra meta es compartir esa pasión con los demás y demostrar los efectos transformadores de la danza – tanto física como mentalmente”.

Los dos grandes amigos descubrieron su amor por la danza en la universidad, y su talento natural fue reconocido desde temprano. Los dos han enseñado, actuado, competido y coreografiado danzas juntos desde entonces.

Hoy en día dirigen su propia academia de baile y compañía de entretenimiento, Latin Dance Pro, en Pasadena. Se centran en la enseñanza de bailes latinos como la salsa, cumbia, cha-cha-cha, merengue y tango argentino.

“Presentar el baile a nuestra comunidad es una experiencia gratificante y única”, dijo Leal. “En nuestras clases, nos esforzamos por crear un entorno que sea acogedor y estimulante. A través de bailes latinos, ¡ayudamos a personas de todos los sectores de la vida a dejar a un lado sus inhibiciones y divertirse”!

León dice que una vez que los nuevos estudiantes se sienten a gusto, experimentan numerosos beneficios. “Para muchos de nuestros estudiantes, el baile se convierte en una rutina para mantenerse en buena salud”, dijo. “La emoción y los beneficios de aprender a bailar pueden ser adictivos”.

Leal está encantado de que la danza latina esté ganando popularidad. “El baile latino le ha abierto muchas puertas a nuestra cultura a través del “La emoción y los beneficios de aprender movimiento y la música. La energía positiva que crea la danza impulsa a otros a experimentar y comprender quiénes somos. Es increíble”. a bailar pueden ser adictivos”. – Salud Leon 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Es importante seleccionar un buen instructor de baile. Un maestro de baile no sólo enseña nuevos pasos y técnicas, sino que también corrige tus errores.

HEALTH TIP junio/June Know the importance of choosing a good dance instructor. A dance teacher not only teaches new steps and techniques, but also corrects mistakes. dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 2 3 4 For Salud Leon and Sergio Leal, dance is more than a hobby. Make time today for It is a way of life. exercise.

“Dance has altered every aspect of our lives in the most positive ways,” said Leon. “We share a passion for dance, and we have turned it into our business. Our goal is to share that passion with others and to demonstrate 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 the transformative effects of dance – both physically and mentally.” Don’t forget your sunscreen today. The two longtime friends discovered their shared love for dance in college, and their natural talent was recognized early on. They have been teaching, performing, competing and choreographing dance together ever since.

Today, they run their own dance academy and entertainment company, 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Latin Dance Pro, in Pasadena. They focus on teaching Latin dances such Practice safety habits at as the salsa, cumbia, cha-cha-cha, merengue and Argentine tango. home to prevent falls and fractures. “Introducing our community to dance is a rewarding and unique experience,” said Leal. “In our classes, we strive to create an environment that is welcoming and inspiring. Through Latin dancing, we enable people from all walks of life to let go of their inhibitions and have fun!” 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Father’s Day Leon said that once new students feel at ease, they experience numerous benefits. “Dancing becomes a fitness regimen for a lot of our students,” she said. “The excitement and benefits of learning to dance can be habit forming.” 26 27 28 29 30 Leal is thrilled that Latin dancing is gaining popularity. “Latin dance Buckle up! Wear a seat has opened up many doors for our culture through the movement and belt at all times. the music. The positive energy that dance creates draws others in to experience and understand who we are. It’s amazing.”

“The excitement and benefits of learning to dance can be habit forming.” – Salud Leon

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Lillian Rodríguez López President, Hispanic Federation Fourth Annual Get Up! Get Moving!TM New York, NY

Desde 2007, la Federación Hispana ha motivado a miles de personas a levantarse y moverse en la ciudad de Nueva York. ¿Cómo? Con su evento comunitario anual que lleva un nombre irresistible: “¡Bailando hacia la salud!”.

“Queríamos hacer algo que fuera culturalmente relevante para nuestra comunidad. Gracias a la televisión, el baile se ha vuelto muy popular”, dijo Lillian Rodríguez Lópes, presidente de la Hispanic Federation. “Ésta es una manera excelente y económica de motivar a la gente”.

El evento “¡Levántate y Muévete!”, que cuenta con el respaldo de la Alianza Nacional para la Salud Hispana y de corporaciones como Aetna, ofrece exámenes y talleres sobre la salud, clínicas deportivas, y lecciones de baile. Los asistentes pueden aprender salsa, merengue, y también participar en una competencia de baile.

“Hay personas de todas las edades que bailan en la competencia”, dijo Rodríguez López. “Hay madres e hijos y abuelos y nietas bailando juntos; verdaderamente éste se ha convertido en un evento multigeneracional. Nuestros jueces eliminan a los participantes hasta quedar con los tres mejores equipos. El premio a los ganadores son lecciones de baile”.

La Federación decidió impulsar este evento hace cuatro años, debido al problema creciente de la obesidad en las comunidades latinas. “La gente se ha vuelto muy sedentaria mirando televisión y jugando juegos de video. Tenemos que recordarles constantemente a las personas cómo mantener un estilo de vida saludable”, dijo Rodríguez López. “La música y el baile están en nuestra sangre, y pueden verdaderamente cambiar tu estado de ánimo y relajarte”. “La música y el baile están en nuestra sangre, y pueden verdaderamente cambiar tu estado de ánimo y relajarte”. – Lillian Rodríguez López

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UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Estírate y caliéntate por lo menos 10 minutos todos los días. Verás que bailar es más fácil y tendrás más energía. julio/July HEALTH TIP Stretch and condition at least 10 minutes every day. You will find that dancing is easier, and you will have more energy.

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1 2 Applying sunblock to Since 2007, the Hispanic Federation has been getting thousands of people your face daily, even during the winter up and moving in New York City through its annual community event. months, keeps your How? By focusing the event on Dancing Towards Health – ¡Bailando skin healthy and protected. hacia la salud!

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 “We wanted to do something that was culturally relevant to our community. Dancing has become very popular with TV shows,” said Independence Day Venezuela Argentina Lillian Rodríguez López, president, Hispanic Federation. “This is (U.S. and Puerto Rico) Independence Day Independence Day such a great and inexpensive way to engage people.”

The “Get Up! Get Moving!” event is supported by the National Alliance for Hispanic Health and corporations such as Aetna. It provides health 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 screenings and workshops, sports clinics and dance lessons. Attendees have the chance to learn different dance styles such as or . Avoid overexposure to salsa merengue the sun. They also can compete in a dance-off.

“People of all ages compete in the dance-off,” said Rodríguez López. “We have mothers and sons and grandfathers and granddaughters dancing together. It really has become a multigenerational event. Our judges 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 narrow it down through the process of elimination to the three best Colombia Drink lots of water. teams. The winning teams get dance lessons as their prize.” Independence Day Your body needs it. The Federation decided to take on this event four years ago because of the growing challenges of obesity within Latino communities. “People have become so stationary at home watching television and playing video 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 games. We have to constantly remind them how to achieve healthful lifestyles,” Rodríguez López said. “Music and dance are ingrained in all Constitution Day Do everything in Peru (Puerto RIco) moderation. Even your Independence Day of us. They can really change your mood and act as a de-stressor.” favorite activities. 31

“Music and dance are ingrained in all of us. They can really change your mood and act as a de-stressor.” – Lillian Rodríguez López

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Esther Gutiérrez Sloan Founder and President, SALSArobics®, Inc. Chicago, IL

Después de dar a luz a dos niños en la década de los 80, Esther Gutiérrez Sloan, nacida en Colombia, buscaba una manera de volverse a vincular con su cultura y a la vez mejorar su salud.

“Empecé a pensar acerca de la música y el baile. Pensé que si podemos bailar como actividad social y para celebrar nuestra cultura, ¿por qué no podemos utilizar esa misma pasión para cuidar nuestra salud y bienestar?” dijo Gutiérrez Sloan.

Con ese propósito creó SALSArobics, un ejercicio aeróbico que incorpora música auténtica y los pasos de populares bailes latinos como la salsa, cumbia, mambo, merengue y otros. Con la ayuda de su esposo, Gutiérrez Sloan produjo un video de ejercicios de SALSArobics. El video fue considerado como pionero en su industria y hasta hoy en día continúa gozando de popularidad. Posteriormente, presentó SALSArobics a su comunidad de Chicago, ofreciendo clases y entrenamiento, y certificando instructores a nivel local.

“Nuestras clases instruyen a la gente acerca de la danza y la fisiología del ejercicio”, dijo Gutiérrez Sloan. “Puedes tomar lo que aprendes a la discoteca. También puedes modificar los pasos para trabajar a tu propio ritmo. ¡Puedes fácilmente quemar 500 calorías en una clase sin siquiera darte cuenta!”.

Para Gutiérrez Sloan, SALSArobics es más que una manera de mantenerse en forma. “El baile me mantiene cerca de mi país y de mi cultura. Cuando bailo cumbia, me siento como si no estuviera lejos de mi hogar. No es sólo el ejercicio físico, es también un ejercicio para la mente y una terapia emocional. ¡Me mantiene viva!”, dijo.

“El baile me mantiene cerca de mi país y de mi cultura”. – Esther Gutiérrez Sloan

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UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Bailar salsa es bueno para fortalecer tu resistencia y a menudo sirve como método para bajar de peso. HEALTH TIP agosto/August Salsa dancing is known to build stamina and often serves as an effective weight-loss method.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 After giving birth to two children in the 1980s, Colombia-born Volunteer at a local Bolivia Esther Gutiérrez Sloan was looking for a way to reconnect to her blood drive this month. Independence Day culture while improving her health.

“I began to think about music and dancing. I thought, if we can dance to be social and to celebrate our culture, why can’t we extend that passion to taking care of ourselves from a health and fitness 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 standpoint?” Gutiérrez Sloan said. Ecuador Independence Day She created SALSArobics, an aerobic exercise that incorporates authentic music and steps from popular Latin dances such as the salsa, cumbia, mambo, merengue and others. With the help of her husband, Gutiérrez Sloan produced a SALSArobics exercise video. The video was considered 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 groundbreaking in the industry and is still popular today. She then Don’t forget to schedule introduced SALSArobics to her Chicago community by offering classes an eye appointment for and training, and certifying local exercise instructors. your child.

“Our classes educate people on dance and on exercise physiology,” said Gutiérrez Sloan. “You can take what you learn to the nightclub. You also can modify the dance steps to work at your own intensity. You can easily 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 burn 500 calories in one class without even realizing it!” Time to renew your Uruguay driver’s license? Independence Day Consider becoming an For Gutiérrez Sloan, SALSArobics is more than a way to stay in shape. organ donor. “Dance keeps me close to the country and culture from which I came. When I do the cumbia, I feel like I’m not far away from home. It’s not just physical exercise. It’s also mental exercise and emotional therapy. 28 29 30 31 It keeps me very alive,” she said. Shop at a farmers market. It’s a great way to eat healthfully.

“Dance keeps me close to the country and culture from which I came.” – Esther Gutiérrez Sloan

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Jorge Alonso Pérez Founder and CEO, “Dance Therapy” Dance Your Depression Away!, Inc. San Antonio, TX

Jorge Alonso Pérez descubrió los poderes curativos de la danza siendo un niño en México. Cuando era joven, perdió a varios seres queridos. Agobiado por la depresión, encontró consuelo en la danza.

El ver bailar a Fred Astaire por primera vez lo motivó a convertirse en un bailarín profesional. Fue instructor de baile en varios estudios locales. También enseñó en Alemania mientras servía en la Fuerza Aérea de los EE. UU.

Sin embargo, Pérez siempre supo que tenía que alcanzar metas más altas. Mientras se recuperaba de un ataque al corazón siendo todavía joven, decidió vivir su sueño de ayudar a otros a superar la depresión.

En 2003, Pérez fundó “Danzaterapia” ¡Baile y No Se Deprima!, Inc. Esta organización sin fines de lucro ayuda a los niños, adultos y personas de la tercera edad a vencer la depresión por medio del baile. El programa combina el baile latino con el asesoramiento, el descubrimiento espiritual y la educación cultural. Hoy en día, Pérez supervisa este programa en casi 30 centros de nutrición para personas mayores en San Antonio y tres escuelas primarias con 90 estudiantes de tercer grado.

“Todas nuestras actividades se centran en la familia y la comunidad”, dijo Pérez. “Cuando tienes un niño saludable, tienes una familia saludable. Y con familias sanas, se crean vecindarios saludables. Los vecindarios saludables forman una ciudad saludable”.

El baile, según Pérez, es mucho más que moverse. “Por medio del baile ayudamos a las personas a sentirse más felices y menos estresadas. No hay nada mejor que ver a los niños y a sus padres bailando juntos”, dijo. “Por medio del baile ayudamos a las personas a sentirse más felices y menos estresadas. No hay nada mejor que ver a los niños y a sus padres bailando juntos”. – Jorge Alonso Pérez 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Bailar no sólo aumenta el flujo de sangre al cerebro, sino que la interacción social que promueve el baile conlleva a una disminución del estrés, la depresión, y la sensación septiembre/September de soledad. HEALTH TIP Not only does the physical aspect of dancing increase blood flow to the brain, but also the social aspect leads dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat. to less stress, depression and loneliness.

1 2 3 Mexico Presidential State Preserve the nutrients Jorge Alonso Pérez discovered the healing powers of dance as a young of the Union Address and colors in vegetables. Cook them quickly by boy in Mexico. As a young man, he lost several loved ones. Overwhelmed steaming or stir frying. by depression, he found solace in dance.

Seeing Fred Astaire dance for the first time motivated him to become 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 a professional dancer. He taught dance at various local studios. He also taught in Germany while serving in the U.S. Air Force. Labor Day Brazil Know your numbers. (U.S. and Puerto Rico) Independence Day Learn your current blood pressure, cholesterol and But Pérez always knew he had a greater calling. While recovering from body mass index. a heart attack at an early age, he decided to pursue his dream of helping others overcome depression.

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 In 2003, Pérez founded “Dance Therapy” Dance Your Depression Away!, Inc. The nonprofit organization helps children, adults and seniors deal Independence Day Mexico (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Independence Day with depression through dance. The program combines Latin ballroom Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua) dance with counseling, spiritual discovery and cultural education. Currently, Pérez oversees the dance program in nearly 30 San Antonio senior nutrition centers and three elementary schools serving 90 third-grade students. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Chile Belize If you are a man over “Everything we do is about family and community,” said Pérez. Independence Day Independence Day 50, schedule a prostate exam this year. “When you have a healthy child, you have a healthy family. When you have healthy families, you create healthy neighborhoods. Healthy neighborhoods build a healthy city.”

25 26 27 28 29 30 Dance, according to Pérez, is much more than movement. “We are empowering people to feel happier and less stressed. There is nothing Don’t forget to wear red on World better than seeing children and parents dancing together,” he said. Heart Day.

“We are empowering people to feel happier and less stressed. There is nothing better than seeing children and parents dancing together.” – Jorge Alonso Pérez

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Julie Avalos Project Director, Healthy Movimiento Congreso de Latinos Unidos Philadelphia, PA

¿Cuál es la mejor manera de motivar a los adolescentes a comer bien y hacer ejercicio? Por medio de actividades interesantes y divertidas.

“Muchos adolescentes piensan que el ejercicio es aburrido”, dijo Julie Avalos, directora de la organización de multiservicios Congreso de Latinos Unidos. “Nuestro objetivo fue crear un programa para superar esa percepción con el fin de interesar a los niños y cambiar sus hábitos de comportamiento”.

Avalos y su organización desarrollaron Healthy Movimiento, un programa para el bienestar para los jóvenes entre los 12 y 21 años de edad. El programa se lleva a cabo cada verano en campamentos de día y escuelas locales. Cada sesión incluye 30 minutos de educación para el bienestar y una hora de enseñanza de baile.

“Es una excelente combinación. Comenzamos cada sesión con un tema como la obesidad y sus consecuencias, cómo medir tu índice de masa corporal, o cómo controlar el tamaño de las porciones. La clase de baile que sigue está relacionada a la información que se impartió en clase”, dijo Avalos.

Durante la sesión de baile, los bailarines profesionales enseñan a los jóvenes cómo pueden elevar su ritmo cardíaco bailando merengue, salsa y hasta hip-hop.

“Tratamos de darles a los niños herramientas para su propio desarrollo”, dijo Avalos. “Queremos que entiendan que el ejercicio no debe sentirse como una faena. Puedes reunirte con tus amigos, sudar y divertirte mientras te pones en forma”.

Healthy Movimiento cierra con un gran evento para la comunidad. Los jóvenes realizan bailes y comparten lo que han aprendido durante todo el programa. “Los chicos están muy entusiasmados. Al final se puede “Queremos que entiendan que el ejercicio no debe sentirse como una faena. ver que han cambiado su perspectiva acerca del ejercicio y la nutrición”, dijo Avalos. Puedes reunirte con tus amigos, sudar y divertirte mientras te pones en forma”. – Julie Avalos 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Tu cuerpo bailará mejor cuando estés relajado. Respira profundamente varias veces y aclara tu mente. Aprende a dejarte llevar por la música. octubre/October HEALTH TIP Your body will dance best in a relaxed state. Take a few deep breaths and clear your mind. Teach yourself to unwind to the music. dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 What is the best way to motivate teenagers to eat right and exercise? Make it interesting and fun.

“Many teenagers think exercise is boring,” said Julie Avalos, director of the multiservice organization Congreso de Latinos Unidos. “Our goal was to design a program that overcame that perception to engage kids 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 and change their behaviors.” If you’re a woman over 40, schedule a Avalos and her organization developed Healthy Movimiento, a wellness mammogram this year. program that targets youth 12–21. The program takes place each summer in local day camps and schools. Each session includes 30 minutes of wellness education and one hour of dance instruction. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 “It’s a great mix. We start each session with a topic such as obesity and Columbus Day Observed National Day (Spain) Schedule time this its outcomes, how to measure your body mass index, or learning about (U.S. and Puerto Rico) month to talk with your doctor about your portion control. The dance instruction that follows is tied to the prescriptions. information learned in class,” said Avalos.

During the dance session, professional dancers teach youth how they can get their heart rates up while doing the merengue, salsa and even hip-hop. 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 World Food Day. Donate a nonperishable “We try to empower the kids,” said Avalos. “We want them to understand food item to your local that exercise doesn’t need to feel like work. You can get together, sweat shelter or food pantry. and have fun while you get fit.”

Healthy Movimiento culminates with a large event for the community. 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 The youth perform dances and share what they’ve learned in class. Keep a positive attitude “The kids are so enthusiastic. By the end you can see that they’ve really toward life. Do something today that makes changed their perspective on exercise and nutrition,” said Avalos. 30 31 you happy.

“We want them to understand that exercise doesn’t need to feel like work. You can get together, sweat and have fun while you get fit.” – Julie Avalos

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Dunia Sanchez, LMT, CPT, CES Wellness Instructor, Medical Wellness Center University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Miami, FL

Para Dunia Sanchez, empezar un programa de ejercicios y aprender a bailar se basa en la misma cosa – dar un primer paso decisivo y fundamental.

“Para mucha gente, bailar es un territorio desconocido. Es como ir a un gimnasio por primera vez. Las personas se sienten intimidadas y no quieren probar. Pero una vez que dan el primer paso, se dan cuenta de lo divertido que es”, dijo.

Sanchez es una instructora para el bienestar en el Centro Médico para el Bienestar de la Facultad de Medicina Miller de la Universidad de Miami. Es profesora de Zumba® Fitness, un programa bailable de ejercicios, que incorpora bailes y ritmos latinos e internacionales en intervalos de entrenamiento cardiovascular y de resistencia.

“Las clases de Zumba son para personas de todas las edades y habilidades”, dijo. “Es como una gran fiesta. La gente viene a aprender a bailar, a socializar y a pasar un buen rato”.

Sin embargo, el programa Zumba es más que sólo divertirse, dijo Sanchez. “Bailar es un ejercicio cardiovascular fantástico. Ejercita todos los músculos en el cuerpo con el fin de mantener el ritmo. Aumenta el tono muscular y eleva al máximo el gasto calórico necesario para bajar de peso. También libera endorfinas, las ‘hormonas de la felicidad’ que reducen el estrés”, dijo.

Sanchez da clases de Zumba desde hace cuatro años, pero ha bailado toda su vida. “Aprendí a bailar antes de caminar. Cuando yo era un bebé en Cuba, mi madre me levantaba y me pedía que bailara para ella. Sacudía las caderas para arriba y para abajo,” dijo. “Creo que es muy común en la cultura latina que la danza forme parte de la vida desde el primer momento. El baile está marcado en mi ADN”.

“Las clases de Zumba son para personas de todas las edades y habilidades”. – Dunia Sanchez

20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Es esencial que calientes tu cuerpo antes de empezar una actividad física, para poder mantener la salud de noviembre/November tus músculos y esqueleto. HEALTH TIP Warming up is essential to maintaining musculoskeletal health during repeat strenuous activity.

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1 2 3 4 5 All Saints Day All Souls Day Eat less saturated fat Dunia Sanchez believes that starting an exercise regimen and learning and cholesterol. Day of the Dead how to dance both rely on the same thing – taking that decisive and (Mexico) critical first step.

“For many people, dancing is an unknown territory. It’s very much like 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 going to a gym for the first time. People are intimidated and don’t want to try it. But once they take the first step, they see that it’s fun,” she said. . Election Day Veterans Day (U.S. and Puerto Rico) (U.S. and Puerto Rico) Sanchez is a wellness instructor at the Medical Wellness Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She teaches Zumba® Fitness, a dance fitness program that incorporates Latin and international dance styles and rhythms to create cardiovascular intervals and resistance training. 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 “Zumba classes are for anyone – people of all ages and abilities,” she said. Challenge someone Discovery of you know to participate Puerto Rico “It’s like a big party. People come to learn how to dance, socialize and in the Great American Smokeout. have a good time.”

The Zumba program is not only about having fun, said Sanchez. “Dancing is a fantastic, high-cardiovascular exercise. It engages every 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 muscle in the body in order to keep to the rhythm. It increases muscle Ask your doctor to test Thanksgiving Day tone and maximizes the caloric expenditure needed to lose weight. It also your blood sugar levels. releases endorphins, the ‘happy hormones’ that reduce stress,” she said.

Sanchez has been teaching Zumba classes for four years, but she has been dancing for her entire life. “I learned to dance before I could walk. When 27 28 29 30 I was a baby in Cuba, my mother would hold me up and ask me to dance for her. I’d shake my hips up and down,” she said. “I think it’s Panama Independence Day very common in Latino culture for dance to be part of life from birth. It’s embedded in my DNA.”

“Zumba classes are for anyone – people of all ages and abilities.” – Dunia Sanchez

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Jorge Mercado Founder and President, Houston Salsa Dancers Pearland, TX

Jorge Mercado se siente afortunado de haber podido combinar su amor por la docencia con su pasión por el baile. Mercado, consejero en una escuela secundaria, decidió hace más de una década que quería enseñarle a la gente cómo utilizar el baile para descubrirse a si mismos.

“El baile y la música son terapéuticos por naturaleza”, dijo. “Siempre han sido una parte importante de mis procesos curativos y para manejar el dolor”.

En 1999, Mercado fundó Houston Salsa Dancers. Además de proporcionar más de 150.000 dólares en becas universitarias a adolescentes latinos, el grupo lleva “Salsaterapia” a la comunidad para impartir un efecto positivo, mental y físicamente.

La “Salsaterapia” ofrece a los participantes la oportunidad de expresar su individualidad e imaginación. También les enseña a colaborar con otras personas. Según Mercado, es más que una experiencia física – es también una experiencia emocional y espiritual.

“El baile ejerce un efecto muy poderoso sobre nosotros”, dijo Mercado, quien también es presidente de la Asociación Tejana de Instructores de Salsa. “Es una herramienta de curación. Es una oportunidad para utilizar tu cerebro para crear patrones. Es una actividad física, es divertido, y nos da la oportunidad de expresarnos “.

La ‘Salsaterapia’ ha llevado esperanza a pacientes con cáncer, parejas con dificultades matrimoniales, y niños. “El objetivo es expulsar los sentimientos negativos y transmitir energía positiva”, dijo.

Mercado se siente especialmente orgulloso de su trabajo ayudando a pacientes de cáncer del Centro Médico de Houston a mover sus cuerpos por medio del baile. “Tengo el privilegio de poder ayudar a otros a enfrentar nuevos retos y a lograr cosas que jamás pensaron que “El objetivo es expulsar los sentimientos podían hacer”, dijo. negativos y transmitir energía positiva”. – Jorge Mercado 20 11

UN CONSEJO PARA TU SALUD Cerciórate de utilizar el calzado correcto para bailar. Los zapatos de baile están cuidadosamente diseñados para proteger las piernas y los pies, y para ofrecerte el soporte que necesitas al bailar. diciembre/December HEALTH TIP Be certain that you are dancing in the correct type of shoe. Dance shoes are carefully structured to protect the legs and feet, and to benefit the dancer. dom./Sun. lun./Mon. mar./Tue. mié./Wed. jue./Thu. vie./Fri. sáb./Sat.

1 2 3 Jorge Mercado feels lucky that he has been able to combine his love for Try singing the alphabet in your head while teaching with his passion for dance. A high school guidance counselor, washing your hands. Mercado decided more than a decade ago that he wanted to show people It’s a great way to make sure you’re washing how to use dance to better connect to their inner selves. them long enough.

“Dancing and music are therapeutic by nature,” he said. “They have 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 always been an important part of my healing and grieving process.”

In 1999, Mercado founded Houston Salsa Dancers. In addition to providing more than $150,000 in college scholarship money to Latino teens, the group brings Salsa Therapy into the community to positively impact the mind and body. 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Salsa Therapy gives participants the chance to express their individuality Be committed to Christmas Posadas begin and imagination. It also shows them how to work with a partner. healthful diet and exercise habits during According to Mercado, it’s more than a physical experience – it’s the holiday season. emotional and spiritual as well.

“Dance has a very powerful effect on us,” said Mercado, who also is president of the Texas Association of Salsa Instructors. “It is a healing 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 tool. It’s a chance to use your brain to create patterns. It’s physical, Stay aware of toy recalls Christmas Eve this holiday season. it’s fun, and it gives us a chance to express ourselves.”

Salsa Therapy has brought hope to cancer patients, struggling married couples and children. “The goal is to kick away negative feelings and pass along the positive energy,” he said. 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Christmas New Year’s Eve Mercado is especially proud when he helps cancer patients at the Houston Medical Center get their bodies moving through dance. “I’ve been blessed that I have had the opportunity to help others accept new challenges and do things that they never thought they were capable of doing,” he said.

“The goal is to kick away negative feelings and pass along the positive energy.” – Jorge Mercado

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Biographies For Spanish translations of these biographies, visit www.aetnalatinocalendar.com

Julie Avalos Esther Gutiérrez Sloan Anita N. Martinez Julie Avalos is the director of family health services at Congreso de Esther Gutiérrez Sloan is the president and founder of SALSArobics®, Anita N. Martinez has been involved in community service work in Latinos Unidos, a nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia that Inc., an exercise program that provides a whole-body workout and teaches Dallas, Texas, for over 64 years. She is the founder and chief fund-raising strengthens Latino communities through social, economic, education Latin dancing at the same time. She also created the FITKIDS children’s officer of Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, Inc. (ANMBF), an and health services; leadership development; and advocacy. fitness program for the Lake Forest Health and Fitness Institute in educational performance-based dance organization dedicated to instilling Chicago, which teaches children the importance of exercise and good cultural pride and awareness in the Hispanic community while educating Avalos is responsible for developing, implementing and managing health habits. the general public about the Hispanic cultural contribution to society. successful health-related services, and ensuring that they are culturally and linguistically appropriate. She also oversees programs that focus Certified by the American Council on Exercise and trained in Total ANMBF teaches Hispanic youth about the riches of their culture through on several public health areas, including services for domestic violence Body Training Systems, Gutiérrez Sloan teaches SALSArobics at several performing arts, making them more aware of traditional Mexican music, survivors and their children, maternal infant and child health services, locations in the Chicago area. She is a popular presenter, having led dance and history. This awareness motivates them to stay in school and community health prevention programming, and services for pregnant SALSArobics exhibitions at fitness conventions, health clubs, high schools aspire to higher education goals. and parenting teens. and ethnic festivals nationally and internationally. She has performed SALSArobics on local and national television in Illinois and California. Under Martinez’s leadership, ANMBF has grown from a small group of A licensed social worker, Avalos is an active member of Philadelphia’s dancers who met in a Dallas community recreation center into the largest Mayor’s Taskforce on Domestic Violence and The Philadelphia Coalition Since 1998, Gutiérrez Sloan and SALSArobics have been part of the professional ballet folklorico in the United States. It comprises more than of Victim Advocates. She has done systems work both locally and statewide; Pathways to Learning “Be Well/Take Care” curriculum for continuing 36 dancers and serves hundreds of people during weekly performances. advocating to reduce health disparities, improve access to resources within education for K-12 teachers. Gutiérrez Sloan is currently a presenter for the ANMBF features traditional Hispanic music, authentic costumes, and the Latino community and promote general positive health outcomes. Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, introducing young dances from various geographical regions and historic periods of Mexico. girls (K-8) throughout the Chicago area to a fitness lifestyle through the Avalos earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from “Fit to Be Me with SALSArobics” program. Prior to creating ANMBF, Martinez was active in public affairs. In Temple University. 1969, she served as a member of the Dallas City Council, becoming the Gutiérrez Sloan is a sought-after motivational speaker, who continually first Hispanic woman elected to the city council of a major U.S. city. presents at elementary, middle and high schools; colleges; and universities Her efforts as a council member led to a number of physical and social Vanessa Calderón-Rosado for both students and faculty. Active in her community, she is a PTO improvements in communities of West Dallas and “Little Mexico.” Vanessa Calderón-Rosado is the chief executive officer of Inquilinos volunteer and has offered her time to City of Hope, the American Boricuas en Acción (IBA), a community-building nonprofit organization Heart Association, Aids Walk Chicago, Dance for Life, and Latino As a tribute to Martinez’s years of service to the community, the based in Boston, Massachusetts, that develops low- and moderate-income Entertainment by leading warm-ups and exercise segments, and Dallas City Council named the Anita N. Martinez Recreation Center housing, provides support services to families, and promotes and preserves participating in promotional events. in her honor. Latino artistic expression. Gutiérrez Sloan received a bachelor’s degree in computer science from During Calderón-Rosado’s tenure, IBA has completed a dramatic financial, Northeastern Illinois University, graduating with high honors. She has Luis Martinez operational and programmatic turnaround. Under her leadership, IBA been married for 38 years and has two daughters. Luis Martinez has been a professional dancer and dance instructor since has expanded the Pathway Technology Campus, a joint venture with 1981. He currently is an associate professor of dance and the artistic Bunker Hill Community College that created a technology-infused director of Kean Dance Theatre (KDT) at Kean University in Union, satellite campus in IBA’s affordable housing community, Villa Victoria. Sergio Leal New Jersey. She also has helped increase IBA’s arts and culture programs to anchor Sergio Leal is a founder and director of Latin Dance Pro, a dance academy it as New England’s prime Latino arts hub. and entertainment company based in Pasadena, California; and Latin Martinez has choreographed over 40 works for KDT, the theatre and Dance Fashions, an online Latin dancewear company. He also competes music departments, and for numerous campus and community events. In 2009, Calderón-Rosado was selected for the Barr Foundation Fellowship internationally in professional Latin dancing. He teaches modern dance composition, improvisation, jazz, dance theatre granted to 12 of the most gifted nonprofit leaders in Greater Boston. production, Latin dance and ballroom dance at Kean. He also is the At Latin Dance Pro, Leal teaches everything from the basic salsa step to faculty advisor of the student-based Latin dance group Ritmo Latino, Calderón-Rosado serves on the board of directors of Massachusetts’ Board complex patterns and partnering techniques. He has won high praise which is dedicated to researching and performing traditional and social of Elementary and Secondary Education, Boston Afterschool and Beyond, for his teaching method that simplifies complicatedsalsa patterns into Caribbean and Latin American dances. and the National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders. She easy-to-learn movements.

is a member of the advisory committees of the Center for Community Leal’s performances and choreography have been featured in award- Martinez has presented his works at regional and national conferences Health Improvement at Massachusetts General Hospital, the Mauricio winning routines, television, film, and numerous articles and magazines. such as the American College Dance Festival; and the American Alliance Gastón Institute at UMASS-Boston and the McCormack Graduate In 2005, Leal and his partner, Salud Leon, were semifinalists at the 10th for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. School of Policy at UMASS-Boston. Annual Mayan Salsa World Competition and took third place in the World Salsa Competition in Miami. Prior to working at Kean University, Martinez performed with various Calderón-Rosado has many outside interests, including reading, dancing, dance companies in Cleveland, Ohio, and New York City; including the pilates, Zumba®, cooking and traveling. She received her doctorate in Costumes from Latin Dance Fashions have appeared in film and television, Rod Rodgers Dance Company and Ballet Hispanico. He also served as an public policy on aging at the Gerontology Center of the University and have been worn by celebrity dancers in prestigious competitions and adjunct professor at Pace University in Briarcliff Manor, New York; and of Massachusetts at Boston. showcases worldwide. Latin Dance Fashions is one of the top-ranking as a guest dance teacher in Osaka, Japan. Martinez has studied with two online stores in the world. renowned master teachers and performers of Latin dance, Eddie Torres Calderón-Rosado lives in Milton, Massachusetts, with her husband (the Mambo Dance King) and Maria Torres (a Broadway performer and two sons. Leal received a bachelor’s degree in pure mathematics from California and choreographer). State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Martinez holds bachelor’s and master’s of fine arts degree in dance/ Betsy Dopico choreography from the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana. Betsy Dopico, a native Cuban, is a renowned Zumba® instructor and Salud Leon musician. She is a cofounder of Dance. Art. Fitness. Studio Salud Leon is a founder and director of Latin Dance Pro, a dance academy (DAF Studio) in Miami, Florida. and entertainment company based in Pasadena, California; and Latin Jorge L. Mercado Dance Fashions, an online Latin dancewear company. She also competes Jorge L. Mercado currently is a guidance counselor at Charles H. Milby DAF Studio represents the synergic collaboration of the mind, body and internationally in professional Latin dancing and has worked as a nurse. High School in Houston, Texas; a salsa dance instructor at the University spirit through dance, arts and fitness. At DAF Studio, Dopico leads a of Houston (Cougar Salsaros); and a former history professor at team of well-seasoned professional choreographers and artists who instruct Leon’s approach to teaching salsa at Latin Dance Pro stresses the social Interamerican University in Puerto Rico. He is the founder of the both children and adults by utilizing various forms of dance to promote aspects of the dance by emphasizing leading and following techniques over after-school program Salsa Therapy; and the nonprofit organization greater physical and cognitive well-being. choreography, which produces a smooth look and feel to partner dancing. Houston Salsa Dancers, Inc.

Certified five times in Zumba, Dopico was chosen as a Zumba master In 2005, while working simultaneously as a professional competitive Through Salsa Therapy, Mercado meets with Houston-area high school trainer by its creator, Beto Pérez, in 2007. She has appeared as a Zumba dancer and nurse, Leon and her partner, Sergio Leal, took third place students at various schools and community centers twice a week, teaching image in Mexico on the television programs “Revista Hoy” and in the World Salsa Competition in Miami and were semifinalists at them Caribbean dances and counseling concepts such as developing “Otro Rollo.” the 10th Annual Mayan Salsa World Competition. self-esteem and creating personal goals. The students meet on their own an additional two times a week to improve their skills. In 15 years leading As a member of the 5 de Diciembre Brigade of the Universidad Central, Leon’s credits include print and commercial modeling, as well as the program, Mercado has reached out to over 5,000 students. Dopico received national awards for choreography as first figure in the appearances on television and in film. productions La Cenicienta and Poupurrit Cubano. In 1999, Mercado and a group of his family members founded Houston Latin Dance Fashions provides high-quality, affordable, custom-made Salsa Dancers, an organization designed to enrich and empower youth A trained pianist, Dopico won the Cuban National Award as Latin dance costumes to dancers all over the world. It is one of the and anyone willing through an exploration of dance and culture. Houston Instrumentalist, presented by the National Brigade of Amateur Artists, top-ranking online stores in the world. Salsa Dancers developed and created The Houston Salsa Congress, three years in a row. In 1999, she was awarded the Gold National Medal which is the first-eversalsa congress in Texas; and The Texas Salsa Open, as Cuba’s best instrumentalist. In addition to her exploits as a performer, Leon received a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University a competition that qualifies dancers to participate in the annual World Dopico has worked as a children’s music and piano teacher. of Phoenix. Salsa Championship. The organization has awarded more than $150,000 in college scholarships to students in Houston. Dopico received a degree in arts from Universidad Central de Las Villas in Cuba.

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com Biographies For Spanish translations of these biographies, visit www.aetnalatinocalendar.com

A certifiedsalsa instructor, Mercado is the president of the Texas Under Rodríguez López’s leadership, the Federation has dramatically R.Evolución Latina is a collective of artists and activists committed to Association of Salsa Instructors (TASI), which certifiessalsa instructors increased its organizational capacity to serve a growing network of empowering the artistic community in order to inspire growth within in Texas. Mercado developed the history of salsa curriculum for TASI. member agencies and respond to the Latino community’s local and the Latino community through collaboration, productions and national needs. educational support programs. Salgado teaches dance in communities Mercado earned a master’s degree in counseling from State University of in need throughout the five boroughs of New York City through New York at Brockport, a master’s degree in history from State University Prior to joining the Hispanic Federation, Rodríguez López was employed R.Evolución Latina’s educational programs. of New York at Buffalo and earned 36 hours toward a doctorate degree at the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation, a public benefit in history from the University of Valladolid in Spain. corporation that oversees New York City’s public health care system. In addition to In the Heights, Salgado has performed in shows such She worked in several capacities, including as executive assistant to the as The Mambo Kings, Fame on 42nd Street and Aida; and is now performing chairman of the board of directors. on Broadway’s Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. He has Jorge Alonso Pérez choreographed the musicals Serenade, Salsa Gorda, I’ll Be Damned and Suffering from depression as a child and adult, Jorge Alonso Pérez Rodríguez López currently is chair of the National Hispanic Shafrika The White Girl. realized that dancing made his depression disappear. Combining his Leadership Agenda and cochair of the National Latino Coalition on passion for dance with his desire to serve the community, Pérez founded Climate Change. She also serves as a member of the Citizen’s Union Salgado has appeared in the filmsStep Up 2 The Streets, Enchanted, “Dance Therapy” Dance Your Depression Away!, Inc., a nonprofit Board, Nielsen’s Hispanic Latino Advisory Council and News Across the Universe and Dirty Dancing 2: Havana Nights. organization based in San Antonio, Texas, that helps children, adults Corporation’s Diversity Council. and seniors conquer depression through Latin ballroom dancing. Salgado’s choreography in the musical Serenade won the HOLA In 2010, People en Español selected Rodríguez López as one of its (Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors) Award for choreography. “Dance Therapy” offers free introductory dance lessons designed to 25 Most Powerful Latinos in the Country. She also was elected the relieve stress, build confidence and self-esteem, strengthen spirituality and 2007 Coors Hispanic Leader of the Year. healing, and teach healthful life choices. The organization also provides Dunia Sanchez advocacy and referral of depressed individuals to qualified mental health Rodríguez López received a bachelor of arts degree in communications Dunia Sanchez is a wellness instructor at the Miller School of Medicine’s agencies and practitioners. from Fordham University and completed the Executive Program at Medical Wellness Center at the University of Miami. She uses her passion the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University under the for helping others and her conviction that fitness is an essential part of Pérez has grown “Dance Therapy” from a program run out of his car 2003 National Hispana Leadership Institute. a more healthful lifestyle to help the center’s members achieve their into an organization that serves nearly 30 senior nutrition centers and wellness goals. Dancing With The Children program in three elementary schools across San Antonio. Pérez’s efforts through “Dance Therapy” was instrumental Luis Salgado Sanchez incorporates her expertise as a licensed massage therapist to in the community-wide San Antonio Mayor’s Dance Challenge. A veteran performer and choreographer on the stage, in the movies help the wellness center’s members understand the importance of and on television, Luis Salgado played Jose and is the Latin assistant proper posture when exercising to maximize results and prevent injuries. choreographer of the Tony Award-winning musical In the Heights. A passionate dancer, Sanchez also is a Zumba® instructor, currently Lillian Rodríguez López He also is the founder and director of R.Evolución Latina, a nonprofit teaching “Zumba Sculpt” and regular Zumba classes at the center. Lillian Rodríguez López is president of the Hispanic Federation, a organization in New York City focused on empowering Latino nonprofit membership organization serving close to 100 Latino health communities through the arts. Sanchez’s fitness experiences include gymnastics, ballet, professional dance and human service agencies in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and sports-conditioning training. She is certified by the National Academy and Pennsylvania. of Sports Medicine as a personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist, certified fitness nutrition specialist and American Heart Association CPR instructor. Sanchez graduated from a sports academy high school in Cuba.

RESOURCES PARA ORDENAR CALENDARIO SPECIAL THANkS CREDITS For information about Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, Inc., visit Los calendarios están a la venta por $4 cada uno. Aetna Hispanic Employee Resource Group Produced by www.anmbf.org. Raymond Arroyo Aetna Inc. Si desea un calendario, por favor envíe un cheque, Miguel Centeno For information about R.Evolución Latina, visit pagadero a Aetna, a: Florentino Colon Project Manager www.revolucionlatina.org. Aetna Latino Calendar Jane Condron Peggy Garrity Corporate Communications, RW3H Sharon Dalton For information about Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción Villa Victoria Center 151 Farmington Avenue Clemente Gonzales Project Assistants for the Arts, visit www.iba-etc.org. Hartford, CT 06156-3213 Floyd Green Myrna Blum Teléfono: 860-273-0509 Nohemi Lopez Sharon Valechko To find a Zumba® class near you, visit www.zumba.com/us. Fax: 860-273-6675 Maria Mendez Federico Preuss Creative Development For information about Kean Dance Theatre, visit www.kean.edu/~kdt. TO ORDER CALENDAR Dawn Romberg Pita Group LLC Additional calendars are available for Rachel Vorobyev Rocky Hill, Connecticut For information about Latin Dance Pro, visit $4 each. Thomas Wynn www.latindancepro.com/phpweb/index.php. Creative Director To order, please send a check, Lisa Santoro For information about the Hispanic Federation, visit payable to Aetna, to: www.hispanicfederation.org. Aetna Latino Calendar Writers Corporate Communications, RW3H Emily Cretella To find a SALSArobics® class near you, visit www.salsarobics.com. 151 Farmington Avenue Kim Pita Hartford, CT 06156-3213 For information about “Dance Therapy” Dance Your Depression Away!, Inc., Phone: 860-273-0509 Designer visit www.dancetherapydepression.org. Fax: 860-273-6675 Lisa Santoro

For information about Congreso de Latinos Unidos, visit Photography www.congreso.net/home.php. Lou Jones Studio Boston, Massachusetts For information about Dunia Sanchez’s fitness class, visit wellness.med.miami.edu. Photographer Lou Jones For information about the Houston Salsa Dancers, visit www.houstonsalsa.org. Assistants Mike DeStefano Matt Kalinowski David Lincoln Keith McWilliams Leah Raymond Kurt Wittman

Printer Allied Printing Manchester, Connecticut

2011 Aetna Latino Calendar | www.aetnalatinocalendar.com