If there is something that Cubans have always been grateful for, it is television programming, the one that even in the current moments and in the middle of summer, we value much more.

A little bit about history

When I was a child, not all families owned a TV, and we were not the exception, so I had to go in front of my house where a good neighbor, Elisa, lived to watch TV series and sometimes the soap opera, accompanied by my faithful grandmother who usually supported me on these visits.

However, I remember there was a program that enjoyed a considerable television audience and you saw in the windows of the lucky ones who had that equipment. Many times, people who, if my memory serves me correctly, stopped at 5 pm to see the recipes that that pair of talented women proposed to the population; I mean, as I am almost sure you have noticed, to the ” Cocina al minuto ” show, hosted by its leader Nitza Villapol and her inseparable assistant Margot.

This program is already heritage of the nation and it is now seventy years old.

We remember it with a special affection; while many have the book that bears the same name. Not a few learned to cook from such useful recipes, which are currently used by a good number of Cuban families.

Admiration and recognition

For me, I confess I am not at all skilled in these culinary tasks; this show has saved my life, on more than one occasion. Yes, because fortunately there are still others that, following that same line, are broadcast on Cuban television and radio; with excellent results and a great acceptance of the population.

Also in our province there are writers who have contributed to these issues and have even won awards in competitions.

Once again, I repeat, we are all very lucky, for having so many personalities, facts, events, that have turned our land into a unique city, which, moreover, has just turned thirteen years after UNESCO designated part of its Historic Center, World Heritage.

Serve this comment then, to congratulate us all for having enjoyed this cook who dedicated a good part of her life to dignify this job through the small screen, from where so many of us always learned something new from the culinary world.

Also, let us congratulate all the people of Camagüey, for living in this privileged city and let us strive every day a little more to be better citizens and human beings, helping to preserve, care for and always protect our heritage.

Translated by: Aileen Álvarez García