DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine -20 Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 6
6th Annual Celebrity Casino Night presented by L’Oreal – Paris Eva’s Heroes hosts benefit fundraiser for individuals with special needs BY: Jason E. Moody - Publisher PHOTOGRAPHY BY: VIDA Publications, LLC.
Eva’s Heroes is a nonprofit organization
third place – a trip to Las Vegas, Nevada.
dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals
According to figures maintained by the
with intellectual special needs by providing
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
an inclusive setting built on four tenets: inte-
about 6.5 million people in the United States
ract, grow, learn, and love. Based in San An-
have an intellectual disability; that includes
tonio, Texas, the organization helps teens and
more than 545,000 school-age children. One
young adults ages 14 and older who have in-
of the greatest challenges for children across
tellectual special needs to integrate and flou-
the spectrum of intellectual special needs
rish in society. The organization was foun-
is developing the life skills necessary for in-
ded in 2006 by actress Eva Longoria and
tegrating into society. Active and ongoing
Board President Christiane Perkins-Garcia.
community participation is a key ingredient
vities, such as bowling, dance, workshops,
VIDA covered the red carpet event on
to helping children reach their full potential,
museum visits, and interactive and specta-
Saturday, October 12, 2013, in San Antonio,
but the cost and availability of accommoda-
tor sports, are offered throughout the year.
Texas, at the Eilan Hotel Resort and Spa. Over
ting programs are obstacles for many families.
Summer Enrichment Program gives young
650 attended the signature event celebrating a
Eva’s Heroes offers unique opportunities
people the opportunity to enjoy a summer
theme of the “Swinging Sixties”, which was one
for these young men and women that may not be
camp experience in a structured and suppor-
of the most dynamic decades – an era known
able available to them elsewhere. This outreach
tive environment. The Summer Enrichment
for The Rat Pack and the resurgence of Elvis.
is conducted through three primary programs.
Program, which is open to your ages 14 to 21,
Brownsville artist Eric Medina, of Me-
After School Program is open to middle and
is held annually during a six-week period when
dina’s Custom Poker Tables built a cus-
high school students with intellectual special
school is in summer recess. Participants enga-
tom poker table as one of the main grand
needs. The program is conducted every week
ge in dynamic activities that weave education
prizes,
$7,500.
from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday.
and recreation together, such as sports and
“I am honored to have participated
Monthly Activities Program is recrea-
outdoor activities, cooking, computer skills,
and provide Eva and Christiane’s organi-
tion-based and designed to empower par-
arts and crafts, archery, fishing, and canoeing.
zation a custom poker table,” Medina said.
ticipants to try new and unique activities.
Not only was Medina a guest of
Participants must be at least 16 years old
the event but he participated in the an-
and are accompanied by highly qualified
nual celebrity poker tournament and won
staff and volunteers. A rich variety of acti-
which
was
valued
over
7
Eva’s Heroes
13526 George Rd. Ste. #110 San Antonio, Texas 78230 www.evasheroes.org
VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness:21A Community Issue DECOMAGAZINE
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Shawne Stewart-Zakaria PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Jenn Stevenson
DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine -2Health
& Wellness: A Community Issue 10
CONTENTS
KING TUT EXHIBITION Experience the world renowed exhibition here in the Rio Grande Valley
36 6
EVA’S HEROES VIDA Magazine was present to cover Eva’s remarkable charity event.
22
SANDRA BETANCOURT Take a new look what it takes to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
26
MCALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY Nationally recognized architectural
GABRIEL BERNAL
An inspirational story about selfmotivation, power, and achievement.
12
project here in the Rio Grande Valley.
40
ACCION Learn about the magnificent benefits of organizations such as Accion in South Texas.
On the Cover: Gabriel Bernal on East Elizabeth Street Brownsville Texas. Photography by Fox Aguilar.
46
LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE New management in Longhorn Steakhouse - dining at its best.
11
VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness:3 A DECOMAGAZINE Community Issue
Staff
Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 2013 Publishers Jason E. Moody & Osli J. Mejia Advertising Specialist Aida Alvarez Account Executive Monica Montalvo 5HQDWR 5RGULJXH]
CEO WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE Meet the women in charge of maintaing high quality healthcare to all Valley residents.
18
28 ALMA DE LA ROSA An agent unlike no other, willing to bring forth solutions for your needs.
29 GOURMET CENTRAL Take a sneak peak at what makes locally recognized Gourmet Central special.
30 DR. MARIN
Creative VIDA Publications, L.L.C. Copy Editors Cecilia S. Moody Lauren Quackenbush Writers Cori Aiken Stephanie Barbosa Jose Borjon Ernie J. Garrido Monica Gonzalez Michael Leos Naissa Lopez Photography Fox Aguilar Joe Hermosa Norberto Martinez Yvette Martinez
New doctor settling in Brownsville, Texas here to serve you and your families.
31 MESSINA HOFF Fine wine - a small piece of “Napa Valley” just Texas style!
32 H.O.P.E.
Take a look at this magnificent organization out to help those with medical needs.
Web Design VIDA Publications, L.L.C. Founded in April 2013, VIDA is the official publication of South Texas in Arts | Culture | Lifestyle| Innovation Copyright © 2013 Founded in March 2013, RGV | Spotlight™ is the official partner of VIDA Magazine in providing patent #61/804,190 Copyright © 2013
DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine - 4Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 12
GABRIEL BERNAL Hope. Diligence. Determination.
Gabriel been
a
Bernal hard-worker
has at
always heart.
Born and raised in Brownsville, Bernal is a full-time student, physical trainer, and bodybuilder. As a child, Bernal was always very active, participating in basketball, football, baseball, hockey and even gymnastics. He graduated from Hanna High School in 2006, where he played cornerback for the football team. In 2005, Bernal was introduced to the sport of bodybuilding by a group of friends at his local gym, and he hasn’t looked back since. Bernal is inspired by people who continue to test their physical and mental limitations in the effort to fulfill their dreams. “I’ve seen a couple of bodybuilders who Gabriel Bernal, student and fulltime trainer/competitor.
have no legs or arms, but they still get on stage and they do what they love to do,” Bernal says. “Hard work and hard-working
people
like
that
motivate
me.”
It is safe to say that Bernal is one of those people who pushes the limits for his goals. He was born with a heart murmur, so he must exercise caution whenever he trains. He says it can have a negative effect on his bodBY: Stephanie R. Barbosa
ybuilding training, because he gets tired very
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Fox Aguilar
quickly, and he has to take longer breaks than
13
VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness:5 A DECOMAGAZINE Community Issue
1st place winner of the National Physique Committee West Texas Classic. Regardless of his title or conditions, he excells in training and discipline.
most other people. Because of these limitations, he admits that he sometimes must work harder to maintain his health and physique. “When I work out I do get tired a lot faster than other people, but I love bodybuilding. I think it’s an art and not a lot of people can do it. Since I love it so much I try to overcome all those things,” Bernal says. And all that hard work has certainly paid off. Since he started training in at the age of 18, Bernal has placed in several natural bodybuilding contests, including the National Physique Committee West Texas Classic. He admits his initial nervousness about entering the intimidating world of bodybuilding. “I didn’t even know what I was getting into, but I continued working on it and everything just fell into place,” he says. Now at 26, he sees bodybuilding as his second home. Bernal continues to train and hopes to enter in more competitions by the end of next year. He says training for each competition usually precedes with several weeks of cardio and strength training, and a muscle-building diet. Bernal is not all brawn and muscle; he also has an artistic side. With his limited amount of free time, he enjoys acrylic painting, pla-
DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine -6Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 14
As a committed employee to Gold’s Gym, Gabriel enjoys the company of his co-workers as they all come together to deliver the best customer service he can provide.
ying with his dogs, and horseback riding.
our little brother [Alejandro Bernal] with
He also studies at UT Brownsville and
medical school in Dominica,” he says.
works as a personal trainer at Gold’s Gym.
Another source of inspiration comes
After he earns his bachelors degree, Bernal
from his mother, Lucila Garcia Bernal.
aspires to enter a post-grad college to study
“My mom has rheumatoid arthritis and has
physical therapy so he can continue to help
been in pain 24/7 since she was about 30, but
others achieve their health and fitness goals.
she still manages to get up to make breakfast
As well as hard work, Bernal’s fami-
for the family and do other activities,” he says.
ly is a strong motivational force for him.
Bernal also describes his father, Jose An-
He talks about his family with so much en-
gel Bernal Sr., as a go-getter who doesn’t
thusiasm that it is apparent where his po-
know the meaning of the word “quit.” In the
sitive attitude and diligence comes from.
80s, Jose Angel started Star Plumbing Su-
“My twin brother [Jose Angel Bernal Jr.]
pply, where Gabriel works from time to time.
and I are both going to school and wor-
In addition to his help with the family busi-
king to help our family with the bills and
ness and personal training, Bernal has also
7
DECOMAGAZINE
worked at Best Buy since he was about 20. Working three jobs and being a full-time student doesn’t give Bernal much time to catch a breath for his love of bodybuilding, but he fits in as much cardio and resistance training as he can to maintain his health and muscle, and to continue working towards his goals. “I try to utilize every second I have, because every second goes towards the future.”
“Gabriel Bernal has always been a hardworker at heart.” Discipline is a characteristic worth training for. As a personal trainer, Gabriel instills his positive attitude in reaching fitness goals.
Gabriel Bernal personal trainer
Gold’s Gym @Brownsville 800 Sunrise Blvd. Brownsville, Texas 78526 956.982.7903
DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine -8Health
& Wellness: A Community Issue 18
CEO WOMEN IN HEALTHCARE
BY CORI AIKEN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY NORBERTO MARTINEZ )2; $*8,/$5
Seeking to put healthcare on track by focusing on patient care and affordability and superior quality, Susan Andrews,
Leslie
Bingham,
Jennifer
Garza
and
Cris
Rivera
are
concentrating
on
what
is
important
to
the
community.
With technology changing every day and a new medical school on the horizon, VIDA talked with these leaders from the highest levels of the healthcare industry to discuss the future of health, wellness and technology that is leading the way in South Texas. No matter the course, there is one goal among the three women: quality healthcare for the people of the Rio Grande Valley.
SUSAN ANDREWS - VRMC
for any type of failure or problem,” she said. “It cuts out several
Valley Regional Medical Center CEO Susan Andrews belie-
steps which makes it more efficient and a lot safer. One hundred per-
ves every person in Brownsville deserves quality health care, and her
cent of our physicians have been trained, and we are running pretty
goal is to provide the best patient-centered care for our community.
close to 65 percent of all of our orders being placed electronically.”
Born and raised in Corpus Christi, she had many friends
Andrews credits the entire team at Valley Regional for top sco-
from the Rio Grande Valley and would often visit the area.
res in patient satisfaction and believes it starts with the employees.
Andrews earned a bachelor’s degree in business with a concentration in
“We have a very involved group here. We ranked fair-
marketing from Corpus Christi State University and later received a master
ly high in engagement in our employment,” she said. “Ha-
of business administration from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
ppy employees translates to better care for our patients.”
She previously served as chief operating officer of Corpus Christi Medical Center. She chose to remain in South Texas because it is her home.
High tion
marks or
aside,
Andrews’
focus
improving
numbers,
her
is focus
not
on
recogni-
is
the
patient.
“I wanted to do something for the area that I was born and rai-
“Making sure that our patients are safe, getting the very best medical
sed in,” she said. “We all deserve to have our health care needs
care that they can receive and doing it with the right things in place,” she said.
met, and I want to make sure that we’re doing that. This is my
Having
way of giving back to the community that helped raise me.”
ship
With so many different technological advancements being made every
the is
key
right to
doctors,
nursing
accomplishing
this
staff goal,
and she
leaderstressed.
“Once you have all of those things, everything falls into place.”
day in medicine, Andrews considers one of the greater innovations to be the system known as Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE). The system is being implemented across hospitals not only in Texas, but throughout the United States. Valley Regional Medical Center began implementing it last January. The CPOE system allows physicians to submit medication orders, laboratory orders and radiology orders for patient care into a Web-based program throughout the hospital, Andrews explained. For example, if a physician places a prescription order for a patient, it sends that prescription straight to
Susan Andrews, CEO of Valley
the pharmacy and the pharmacist fills the order.
Regional Medical Center at
“That way patients get the correct medication
Brownsville
at the correct time and there is a lot less room
19
VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness:9 A Community Issue DECOMAGAZINE
LESLIE BINGHAM - VBMC Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville
area after she got the hospital back on its feet.
Institutes of Health) grants to do research to
CEO Leslie Bingham initially had no plans to
About a month into the job though, she ca-
see how we can make a difference in the lives
enter the health care profession, but 20 years
lled her boss and said she didn’t want to leave.
of the people of the Valley,” she explained.
later she is happy with the path she took.
“The Valley was such a wonderful place,”
She hopes that the research into the chronic
Born and raised in Memphis, Tenn., she
she said. “It was so family oriented and there
health problems of the Valley -- one being dia-
received her bachelor’s degree in special edu-
were so many opportunities, I wanted to stay.”
betes and its related conditions, such as obesity,
cation and her master’s in education psy-
One of those opportunities was the ability to
kidney disease and heart failure -- will help to
chology from the University of Mississippi.
further her education at an esteemed university.
improve the overall health of the community.
Shortly after earning her degrees, she
At the time, she had 12 years of on-the-job
Bingham is also excited about the up-
moved to Texas and began to teach for the
business leadership experience but no formal
coming plans for a medical school and be-
San Antonio Independent School District.
education in business leadership, so in 1997 she
lieves the opportunities will be endless.
While reading the local paper one day,
decided to attend the University of Texas Pan
“What our elected officials have done
she came across an advertisement that cau-
American and enroll in their weekend courses.
to try to encourage UT to open a me-
ght her attention. A local hospital was
Two years later, she had earned her
dical school to actually grow our own
looking for an instructor to teach sum-
master of business administration (MBA).
mer
school
remarkable,”
she
said.
She considers herself an honorary citizen of
Bingham considers herself a server of the
“I taught summer school in the hospi-
the Valley and is excited for what the future holds.
community and is passionate about making
tal and loved it so much,” she said. “It was a
“UT-Houston has a biomedical research
sure everyone is getting quality health care.
real supportive environment for the kids.”
center on the UTB (University of Texas at
the
hospital-bound
is
children.
When
to
physicians
new
school
year
“We’re
taking
care
of
‘abue-
be-
Brownsville) campus, and as a result of it
los,’ our neighbors and our kids’ tea-
gan, she left the school district and star-
opening here…the attention has brought re-
chers,” she said. “We can’t forget that.”
ted teaching at the hospital full time.
searchers down here with NIH (National
“How I got into management was,” she continued, “I was working with the kids… they had an opening for a pediatric unit and asked me if I would be interested in helping, and so I ran that unit. Shortly after that, I was given responsibilities of another unit, then I got into leadership from there.” Since the beginning of
her career,
Bingham has moved from San Antonio back to Memphis, then eastward to North Carolina and eventually back to Texas. In 1993, Bingham was working in the Dallas-Fort Worth area when she was ca-
Leslie Bingham, CEO of Valley
lled upon to relocate to the Valley. Hesitant
Baptist Medical Center at
at first, her supervisor assured her that he
Brownsville
would transfer her to a larger metropolitan
VIDA Magazine -32Health DECOMAGAZINE
& Wellness: A Community Issue 22
MAKING BETTER CHOICES WITH FOOD
BY: NAISSA LOPEZ
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JOE HERMOSA
Zumba is so much Fun – with Sandra Betancourt
23
33 A DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness: Community Issue
The relationship that many people have with food is often a positive one. The study of what is essential to our bodies is what inspired Sandra Betancourt to become a registered dietician and fitness instructor. A registered dietician is an individual who meets all the credentials needed to earn the prestigious title of “RD.” “I love food!” said Betancourt when asked why she chose healthy eating as her career path. “I love to eat. It’s one of the best pleasures in life. I started wondering ‘What can I eat and how should I make better choices?’” Growing up, Betancourt did not have the financial support to travel out of state for her education and attended the University
of
“I
between
chose
Texas
Zumba Sessions at Coria Fitness
Pan-American.
becoming
a
nur-
“Betancourt became interested in helping others on their quest to make better lifestyle changes for themselves.” - Sandra Betancourt se, an occupational therapist or a registered
dietician,”
said
Betancourt.
Those who choose to become registered dieticians will excel academically in areas such as food and nutrition, microbiology and chemistry. The field itself is vast and registered dieticians can work in hospitals, daycares, nursing homes, school districts or even
start
their
own
private
practices.
After graduating with her Bachelors of Science and Dietetics, Betancourt became interested in helping others on their quest to make better lifestyle changes for themselves. “I am certified in child and adolescent wei-
& Wellness: A Community Issue 24
VIDA Magazine -34Health DECOMAGAZINE
ght management, renal disease, adult weight
There are many health benefits in adding
and I will show you everything,” said Betancourt.
management and diabetes to name a few,” said
Zumba to your lifestyle. Along with improving
One eye-opening fact that she ad-
Betancourt. “I will teach you to change your
your coordination and burning fat in your core,
ded was discussing how our body rege-
eating habits.
These are commitments you
Zumba also sculpts various muscles in the body.
nerates itself and is a reflection of the
are willing to carry out to better your body.”
“One hour of Zumba can burn up to
things we have eaten mere days before.
“I was at the mall and saw a very handso-
1000 calories depending on your wei-
“Every 29 days our body regenerates and
me, tall boy come up to me. Turns out I had
Betancourt.
we produce brand new skin, said Betan-
seen him when he was eight years old. His mo-
“There are participants of all ages. My
court. “Everything that we have eaten those
ther told me that to this day he has continued to
youngest client is 10-years-old and the ol-
past 29 days will show, isn’t that amazing?”
eat healthy,” said Betancourt, while remembe-
dest is 71,” said Betancourt when asked
Betancourt says, “You literally are what you eat!”
ring a young man whose life she helped change.
what the average Zumba clients age is.
After consulting with Betancourt, you
“It is very gratifying to see someone who
“We should exercise 6 times a week for
notice a weight change in as little as
has lost weight, said Betancourt. “It is important
30 minutes to be heart-healthy, and for wei-
two
that when we begin to lose weight we continua-
ght loss we should exercise for an hour.”
Betancourt’s Zumba class is taught at Co-
lly eat healthy. It is a complete lifestyle change.”
A sit-down office visit with Betancourt will
After being asked about simple things that
not only entail discussing your goals and eating
day to Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
an individual can do to improve their health,
habits. She will also show you first hand what
and Saturday’s from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Betancourt elaborated on many small chan-
you put into your body that you should not be
ges that can make a difference in our bodies.
eating and give you the healthier alternatives.
“Drink “70
water!”
percent
of
Betancourt our
body
is
said.
ght
and
intensity,”
said
ria
weeks Fitness
with in
her
recommendations.
Brownsville
from
“I’m a visual person. My office looks like a pantry
fluid.”
She recommends cutting back on fatty goods and not eating any fry foods. Instead, she adds that we should bake it. She notes that decreasing sugar intake is also essential and there are so many sugar substitutes available now. Sandra began teaching at Gold’s Gym and helped start the Zumba movement in Brownsville. She received her Basic I Zumba certification in May of 2009 and teaches a Zumba class at Coria Fitness Club in Brownsville. She later became trained in Basic Zumba II, Zumba Toning, Zumba Sentao (a much more intense form of the exercise) and Zumbatomic, which is Zumba for children between 4 and 12. “It is fun for many of us because we like to dance,” said Betancourt when asked why
ZUMBA & DIET SERVICES WITH SANDRA G. BETANCOURT 26 S. Coria St. Brownsville, Texas 78520
form of wellness training. “It is a stress relie-
956.546.3889 855 Price Rd. Suite 3
ver with the advantage that you are losing fat.”
Brownsville, Texas 78520
people should participate in this particular
956.554.7705
Mon-
Architecture - Health DECOMAGAZINE 24 & Wellness: A Community Issue 26
McAllen Public Library Nationally Recognized Architecture in the RGV
BY: McAllen Public Library PR PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: McAllen Public Library
We all know that if we need a Wal-Mart we can find one
the size of two football fields. Close to $19 million in renovations were
just about anywhere. But what becomes unique is what used
spent, considering that is still is 25 % to 33% less than the average total
to be a Wal-Mart building becoming a modern and contempo-
of starting to build a library building from the ground up. The proud
rary library that has won awards and has been recognized as one
architectural firm from Minneapolis Meyer, Scherer, & Rockcastle, Ltd.
of the most beautiful and innovative libraries in the country.
who has three decades of experience under its belt is the one responsible
That is why the Rio Grande Valley is so proud of the McAllen Pu-
for this amazing make-over which has earned the City of McAllen, The
blic Library because that is exactly what it has become. An architecture
International Interior Design Association 2012 Library Interior Design
jewel of what was an abandoned chain store. One of the main objectives
Award this past June. This is also the largest one-story library in the
of this risky idea was to offer the community a place to gather and at
nation after the Library of Congress, offering its visitors a quiet room,
the same time help this community has the best a library could offer.
several computer labs, a bookstore, and a café. Space for an art gallery
And so far so good, since it has been extremely busy on a daily basis.
was not left out as well as an auditorium with a capacity of 180 people.
When Wal-Mart closed its doors to open a bigger one just right down
The inside of the library is divided into three spaces, children’s
the street, the City of McAllen purchased the old building for $5 million
section, adults’ section, and an area for meeting spaces and sta-
for the property which measures about 124,500 square feet which equals
ff. The beautiful redesign flaunts twenty-foot ceilings, along with
27
Architecture - Health & Wellness:25A Community Issue DECOMAGAZINE
skylights and large windows which generates a special brightness and a sense of cleanliness. To break up the librarian sections large three-dimensional dividers hanging from the ceilings do the job quite wall redefining the modernistic style of the renovation. Technology is one of the most important tools nowadays but especially in a library. The McAllen Public Library uses as many automated services as possible allowing the staff to have more time to interact and attend to visitors. When one visits this ugly duckling turned swan, one can tell that technology was a main priority in services for its visitors. The City of McAllen wanted to serve its 130,000 residents with the latest technology and the most innovative design and services and it did work since membership increased about 25% in about seven months from its inauguration. It has helped the city come together since it includes a section for all age group population. From the youngest to the oldest and it includes a teen center.
PHOTO INFO: The entire building was redesigned to provide a more unique feel modern look for all residents and visitors. Its design has been praised by both residents and national figures.
McAllen Public Library 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen, TX 78504 www.mcallenlibrary.net
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
9:00 am – 9:00 pm
9:00 am – 6:00 pm 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm
VIDA Magazine -26Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 36 DECOMAGAZINE
KING TUTANKHAMUN EGYPTIAN TREASURES
From the private collection of Giovanni Amin, the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts presents a selection of beautiful artwork and delicate Egyptian treasures such as relief panels, the inner Sarcophagus and Funerary Mask of King Tutankhamun, Mummy and reminders of rituals practiced by this ancient culture. The stunning Sarcophagus and gold death mask were the most famous treasures to emerge from his tomb. This exhibit hosts more than 150 artifacts, antique objects, jewelry, and high quality replicas that will transport you to Ancient Egypt, and aims to offer the ultimate Egyptian Adventure and intimate historic knowledge that will relive Howard Carters memories and discoveries. Tutankhamun was a pharaoh during ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom era, about 3,300 years ago. He ascended to the throne at the age of nine but ruled for only 10 years before dying at 19 around 1323 B.C.
BY: Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts
37
VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness: Community Issue 27 A DECOMAGAZINE
“The stunning Sarcophagus and gold death mask were the most famous treasures to emerge from his tomb.”
Take a sneak peak of the experience that Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts will deliver...
Despite his brief reign, King Tut is perhaps Egypt’s best known pharaoh because of the wealth of treasures – including a solid gold death mask – found during the surprise discovery of his intact tomb in 1922. Though several of the foremost excavators over the past century had declared there was nothing left to find in the Valley of the Kings, Howard Carter and his sponsor, Lord Carnarvon, spent a number of years searching for a tomb they weren’t sure existed. In November 1922, they found it. Carter had discovered not just an unknown ancient Egyptian tomb, but also one that had lain nearly undisturbed for over 3,000; what
The discovery of King Tutankhamun could possibly be one of the best descoveries in human history.
lay within astounded the world. Live the adventure and discover King Tutankhamun ancient Egyptian treasures at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Art. Exhibition Dates:
November 11, 2013 – October 2014
Museum Hours:
Monday – Tuesday; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wednesday; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Thursday - Saturday; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts 660 E. Ringgold St. Brownsville, Texas 78520 956.542.0941 www.brownsvillemfa.org
Arts & Entertainment - Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 38 DECOMAGAZINE 18
SANTA AND FRIENDS PRESENTS THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS
Joyful entertainment sets the tone for the
holiday
season!
school district. It has since grown into
award-winning
one of the major productions that we
Fine Arts Department of the Brownsville
prepare for our community,” said Rendon,
Independent
a
School
The
Story and Photography Courtesy of the BISD Public Information Office
District
renews
a
31-year
employee
of
BISD.
heartwarming tradition by announcing the 2013
Elementary students have always been
schedule of performances for “Santa & Friends.”
the primary audience for “Santa & Friends.”
This “The Fine
year’s Magic
Arts
theme of
Administrator,
is
However, as the shows have grown in
Christmas!”
popularity, the number of performances has
Dr.
Rebecca
expanded
to
accommodate
a
broader
Rendon has been on board for “Santa &
audience. Again this year, three nights have
Friends” since the inception in 2006. “The
been specially reserved for the public to
original idea was to give a gift of holiday
enjoy the holiday revue produced and
cheer to the elementary students in the
performed
by
BISD
middle
and
high
“The original idea
was to give a gift of holiday cheer to the elementary students in the school district.” - Dr. Rebecca Rendon Fine Arts Administrator
39
Arts & Entertainment - Health & Wellness:19A Community Issue DECOMAGAZINE
school students in the Fine Arts program.
7 PM on December 4th, 5th and 6th
Rendon has always believed in the concept
at
of
Theatre. Tickets are $5. More information
students
performing
for
students.
She noted, “It is rewarding to produce
is
the
Central
available
by
Administration calling
(956)
Building 982-3730.
this type of production. The students have a great time, and in return for their hard work
and
preparation,
earn
community
service hours. There is also satisfaction in watching unique elements of the arts such as band, choir, theatre, visual arts, and dance come together in a collaborative effort.” Members of the community are invited to attend the evening performances at
“It is rewarding to produce this type of production. The students have a great time, and in return for their hard work and preparation, earn community service hours.” - Dr. Rebecca Rendon Fine Arts Administrator
Innovation - Health DECOMAGAZINE 42& Wellness: A Community Issue 42 PROVIDED BY: ACCION TEXAS
Accion Builds Pathways to Success Accion Texas – Rio Grande Valley
Mission Statement To provide credit and services to small businesses and entrepreneurs who do not have access to loans from commercial sources and to provide leadership and innovation to the microlending industry.
History: San Antonio based Accion Texas, Inc. is a non-profit, multi-state microand small business lender based in San Antonio that helps new and existing entrepreneurs successfully grow their business. They began lending in San Antonio in 1994 and later developed and implemented an innovative “blueprint” for establishing micro lending and small
“MMS™, powered by Accion TX, Inc. is a web-based, comprehensive solution for business loan origination. MMS™ increases lending efficiency, enables program scalability, and improves portfolio quality.”
business programs in new areas. They now lend in eight states: Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. In 2007, Accion Texas began providing underwriting and loan services to other micro lending institutions nationwide through Accion’s creation of Microloan Management Services™. Profile: Accion Texas lends to any legal small business in their service area. They do not exclude any profession or occupation. Most clients use loans for working capital or equipment purchases. Many of their clients have received more than one loan from us. Sixty-one percent of clients identify themselves as Hispanic, 17 percent identify as African-American and 16 percent identify as White. Women comprise 40 percent of borrowers.
3
43
Accion Texas, Inc. can provide support in:
Innovation - Health & Wellness:43A Community Issue DECOMAGAZINE
Financial Profile:
Number of Active Clients: 2,353
Total Number of Loans: 14,601 Total Dollars Disbursed: $152,798,284
Economic Impact:
+ Financial Planning and Budgeting
Active Portfolio: $30,363, 457
In 2012, their micro- and small business owners
Total Loans Under Management: $31,224,025
created 894 jobs and retained 2,120 jobs. The
Average Loan Balance: $12,904
SBA 504 borrowers reported creating 268 jobs
+ Business and Strategic Planning
Loan Range: $500 - $250,000
and retaining 226 jobs, for a total of 3,508 jobs
+ Marketing and Sales Planning
created and sustained by our borrowers in 2012. Organizational Profile:
A 2012 study conducted by researchers at the
Number of Offices: 21
University of Texas at Austin, the University
Number of Employees: 99
of California Los Angeles and New York University analyzed five years of applicant data
+ Legal Structure, Start-Up and Growth Planning
(5,400 applicants, 2006 -2011) and concluded
1. Lindos Momentos - Adult Daycare in McAllen, TX Berta Villagomez Owner 2. Juan Pena from Superior Refrigeration 3. President & CEO, Janie Barrera
+ Perfecting Your Pricing & Cost
that startups receiving microloans from Accion Texas have a 74 percent survival rate; financing increased the probability of a firm’s survival by 44 percent; and borrowers increased sales by 72.9 percent. A 2009 study of Accion Texas economic impact calculated their commitment
1
in lending capital between 1994 and 2009 created economic activity of approximately $173.8 million. These results represent an estimated 60 percent social return on investment – every dollar lent creates an additional 60 cents annually in new economic activity. After three small loans with Accion, clients on average increase business equity by 22 percent, bring in 67 percent more in monthly business profits and increase take home pay by 44 percent.
Accion in Brownsville Chase Bank Bldg. 2nd Floor 2300 Boca Chica Blvd. Brownsville, Texas 78522 1-888-215-2373 @acciontexas.org 2
McAllen/Edinburg – establish 1998 Total Loans: 1,480 Total Disbursed: $12,812,241 Brownsville – established 1998 Total Loans: 752 Total Disbursed: $6,450,059
DECOMAGAZINE
16
City of Brownsville Parks & Recreation The
Brownsville
Sports
Park
conti-
sports fields, and the addition of hundreds
BY: Courtesy of City of Brownsville Parks and
nues to live up to the expectations by at-
of transplanted trees from the City’s nursery.
Recreation
tracting over 225,000 visitors annually. The
The park also continues to be the ul-
150-acre includes 11 soccer fields, con-
timate location for soccer and footba-
cession stands, and 4 basketball courts.
ll by being the only synthetic municipa-
A five-acre manmade lake equipped with
lity of its kind in the Rio Grande Valley.
a boardwalk, pier, and boat ramp is one of the first views that visitors see upon entering the park complex. The centerpiece of the complex is a premier soccer field and stadium that seats 5000 spectators, which serves as an anchor for ten soccer fields The park is also home to the area’s only BMX track and large skate park. The Sport’s Park continues to host to many major, national, regional, and state local softball, soccer, and football tournaments. The community takes advantage of the Skateboard’s Park and the BSP was a haven for walkers and runners as well. In 2009, the park boasted the addition of the Beach Sports Cove, which hosts sand volleyball, beach flag football, and beach soccer public open play, leagues and tournaments. Other improvements included the addition of a stateof-the-art Wind Harp, fencing for the multi-use
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: VIDA Publications, LLC
43
17 A DECOMAGAZINE VIDA Magazine - Health & Wellness: Community Issue
The Brownsville Community Improvement Corp. (BCIC) took to the task of revitalizing a low-poverty neighborhood by building the first cycle and pedestrian trail in the city to run through a densely populated area. In partnership with the Community Development Corporation of Brownsville (CDCB) and the Dallas-based firm bcWorkshop, the planning and design phase of the Belden Trail was conceived as a public/private pilot program with the hopes of replicating the same concept throughout similar neighborhoods in Brownsville. West Brownsville’s new trail was inaugurated on October 24, 2013, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and a neighborhood celebration, but area residents were already using it to walk to school and ride their bicycles. The Belden Trail has helped revitalize the neighborhood along its one-mile path that begins at PraxOrive Jr. Park and ends behind Skinner Elementary School. Homes along the trail have been painted and repaired by their owners. A landscaping palette was also reestablished using native plants that are
alongside a street named for Samuel Bel-
BY: Ernie Garrido
beautiful, functional and low-maintenance.
den, who laid out the town of Brownvi-
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Mundo Buentello
Local businesses appreciate the change the
lle along with his partner, Charles Stillman.
and Courtesy of BCIC
Belden Trail has brought to the neighborhood. “My father, Nick Serafy, Sr., the founder of Serafy Laboratories, had a deep appreciation for the semi-tropical plants that can thrive in Brownsville. He thought that any building would be enhanced by this type of landscaping,” said CEO of Serafy Laboratories Nick Serafy, Jr., whose lab has been on West Levee Street since 1976. “Our efforts to continue this are a tribute to him, and I view the Belden Trail as an extension of his thinking.” The trail runs through the old railroad tracks of the St. Louis, Brownsville & Mexico Railway.
The original rail line ran
VIDA Magazine -18Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 44 DECOMAGAZINE
Spinach, peppers, broccoli, squash, pump-
ville’s Parks and Recreation Department.
nomic benefits community gardening yields,
kin, indeed a variety of vegetables and herbs
As a testament to the true investment in and
participants enjoy social interaction, and physi-
thrive in the 26 bed community garden on
commitment to the community, especially those
cal activity while beautify their neighborhoods.
the corner of 8th and Tyler in downtown
low income areas in dire need, The Brownsvi-
Please visit www.brownsvillefarmersmar-
Brownsville. Diligently tended by neighbor-
lle Wellness Coalition’s efforts do not end with
ket.com for more information on the Browns-
hood residents, the garden serves to memo-
the construction phase. The BWC espouses a
ville Community Gardens and Farmer’s Market.
rialize the three children whose lives tragically
simple but mighty and multi-faceted mission:
and abruptly ended in the adjacent building.
to educate the community on how to grow,
This blossoming plot of land, dubbed the
share, and prepare healthy local food. With the
Tres Angeles (Three Angels) Community Gar-
intent of fostering a community of self-suffi-
den, also serves to lift the gloom that loomed
cient gardeners, the coalition offers a variety
over the community for just over a decade.
of free lectures on topics including growing
Tres Angeles, the fruit of the Browns-
and harvesting, preparing and cooking, and se-
ville Wellness Coalition’s labor, is the first
lling fresh produce at the Brownsville Farmers’
of 13 community gardens the local group
Market which the BWC hosts every Saturday
hopes to construct in the city’s downtown
a mere block away from the Tres Angeles site.
area with the support of the City of Browns-
In addition to reaping the health and eco-
BY: Monica Gonzalez
PHOTOGRAPHY BY:
VIDA Publications, LLC
Dining - Health DECOMAGAZINE
&40Wellness: A Community Issue 46
LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE
BY: JOSE BORJON PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE
ANNOUNCES NEW MANAGING PARTNER OF SOUTH MCALLEN RESTAURANT DORA LOMAS PROMOTED TO LEAD TEAM
Dora Lomas, a Mexican-American and
She has a passion for leading by exam-
native of the Rio Grande Valley, was recently
ple and works diligently every day to ensu-
promoted to managing partner of the south
re guests walk in and out of the restaurant
McAllen LongHorn Steakhouse. In this posi-
happy with their experience. She has been
tion, aside from overseeing 55 team members
working for the restaurant since 2011 and
and three managers, Dora also manages all as-
has a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from
pects of the restaurant’s operations, including
the
University
of
Texas-Pan
American.
ensuring the highest level of guest satisfac-
Dora, who was raised by her grandparents
tion and service is delivered on a daily basis.
and credits them for instilling her strong work
LongHorn Steakhouse 3600 W. Expressway 83 McAllen, Texas 956.630.6426
47
Dining - Health & Wellness: A Community Issue 41 DECOMAGAZINE
LEFT PHOTO TITLE: Sius, quis nonsume in pertem et ca porit, quo essendum mo etimmovit que dummei u description hereLat.
ethic, is also passionate about being a wife
explain what it is you do and why you love it.
makes a point of celebrating her team’s ac-
and mother of her two sons, ages 11 and
This may make them more likely to be unders-
complishments. Her work ethic is contagious.”
7. As a busy career woman and an expert in
tanding and supportive of your career goals.
“I’m very excited to be promoted to Mana-
multi-tasking, Dora has three tips she lives by
Maximize Your Time at Home – When
ging Partner and to join the team at LongHorn’s
and is happy to share them with other moms
you’re at home as a family, don’t cook or
South McAllen location,” said Lomas. “I’m
who want to maximize their work-life balance:
clean! Spend as much time as possible interac-
fortunate to lead a dedicated and hardworking
Accept Help – Don’t feel guilty about ac-
ting to make the most of your time together.
team that always puts the guest first. As I conti-
cepting the help of family and friends. Building
Leave your house chores for another time.
nue to meet our regular guests and get acclima-
a strong support network is important to you
“LongHorn Steakhouse has a proud history
ted to the community, I look forward to making
and your family’s peace of mind and balance.
of being a place where people can fulfill their
a significant impact here in South McAllen.”
Show Your Children You Love Your Job Too
professional goals and career aspirations, and
Visit Lomas and her team at the
– As a career-loving parent, make sure your chil-
we are especially proud of Dora’s promotion
LongHorn
Steakhouse
dren understand that your job is equally as im-
to Managing Partner,” said Shane Lyell, Mana-
th
at
portant as your home life. It’s healthy for them
ging Director of Operations for LongHorn.
to see you as a role model that is passionate
“Dora has quickly become an invaluable leader.
about a career. Talk to them about your job and
She lives and breathes the LongHorn way and
McAllen
3600
in Expressway
Sou83.