Core HealtH
Jovita CHase celebrates 50 years of Brownsville Coffee Shop No. 2 How lifestyle and environment shape our health
sandra nieto shares her lifelong dedication to education in Raymondville
CHristine Castillo found success by making life her classroom in Harlingen
Anna Oquin’s partnered journey to McDonald’s franchisee and community leader
Summer is the time to take a break, enjoy the beach, visit local parks, and plan a family vacation—and be sure to take a copy of Valley Women Inspire Magazine along with you.
Women are strong individuals who protect their children and families above all else. How often have we said or heard that phrase?
That effort extends far beyond the immediate family. Women play a pivotal role in educational, economic, and social development, paving the way for their descendants and communities to achieve a future filled with greater opportunities.
The work, vision, and community service of the women featured in this summer edition offer a shining example of what can be achieved in a community such as Cameron County.
In the business and community service sectors, we introduce Anna Oquin, a franchise owner of a popular fast-food restaurant who has successfully expanded her business from Brownsville to San Antonio.
In education, Maria Elisa Pineda—principal at Los Fresnos United—carries on her parents’ legacy by prioritizing education and approaching every student with compassion. Meanwhile, for Yolanda Chamberlain, CTE coordinator at Los Fresnos CISD, the goal is to see students excel, earn certifications while still in high school, and secure higher incomes than those without such credentials.
Christine Castillo is someone who embraces life as her classroom; she is never afraid of
hard work. Seeing the happiness on her clients’ faces motivates her to continue her work in catering services.
If you live in or are visiting Brownsville, stopping by Mrs. Jovita Chase’s restaurant for coffee, breakfast, or lunch is a local tradition. Discover the story behind her 50-year career in the restaurant industry and her plans for the future.
In the realms of sports and personal growth, Liliana Peña—known as “Lily Diamond”—from South Padre Island shares how her children have motivated her to stay active despite weather challenges. She has successfully overcome life’s difficult trials and come out stronger.
Is there a song that inspires you when you hear it? For Micaela Escobar, a song by the Mexican band Maná inspired her to launch an educational program focused on sustainable development in Brownsville elementary schools. Learn about the program that connects children with their ecosystem.
The Inspire team extends its congratulations to Dr. Sandra Nieto, who is proudly retiring from her career at Raymondville ISD. She shares her story, along with a lingering question: What’s next?
We also invite you to reflect by asking yourself: What’s next for you?
G. Zulema Baez Phillips Editor
6
From early reader to career builder: Yolanda Chamberlain shapes futures in the Rio Grande Valley.
On Her Terms: Christine Castillo found success by making life her classroom.
From Numbers to Nature: Micaela Escobar’s vision transforms sustainability in Brownsville ISD.
Girls’ night out, in fashion! Friends dressed in glamorous attire to attend the premiere of The Devil Wears Prada 2.
Diamond Life. Triathlete Liliana Peña endures tragedy to write her new story.
24
Full Circle. Dr. Sandra Nieto shares her lifelong commitment to education, faith, and community. 26
Maria Pineda, dedicated to students and their education.
A family tradition brewed over generations: Jovita Chase celebrates 50 years of Brownsville Coffee Shop No. 2.
TOP 5 meal planning prep and freezer systems that support real life.
20
She’s lovin’ it: Anna Oquin’s partnered journey to McDonald’s franchisee and community leader.
32
Stars, Stripes & Freedom. Inspired by the patriotic celebration, Chef Monica Pean shares a recipe for a watermelon-blueberry salad with chicken.
34 A World Within. Women’s wellness and preventive health article.
36 Smart planning makes every trip easier.
38
More than a dress.
The lasting impact of Cinderella’s Closet, a signature project of the Junior League of Brownwsville.
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
Yolanda Chamberlain has been in education for the past 20 years, but her passion for learning began when she was just a toddler in Illinois.
“My parents were migrant workers, and my dad spoke often about the importance of education,” Chamberlain recalled. “Apparently it worked, because my dad later told me that I was asking for books
when I was just 2 years old.” Her favorite books were the Little Golden Books, Record Read Along series, which included a record with narration and music.
“I would use my dad’s record player and read along,” Chamberlain recalled. “By the time I was three I was a pretty fluent reader.”
Chamberlain’s early start carried over into her schooling. She was in fourth grade when she and her family moved to the Rio Grande Valley. Due to different enrollment laws in Illinois and Texas, Chamberlain was a year younger than her classmates. Consequently, she graduated from Harlingen High School at 16 and entered
college at 17. Chamberlain initially planned to become a lawyer, but life had other plans.
Marriage during her senior year of college and the
arrival of her first son soon after reshaped her priorities.
A pivotal turning point came during her time working in juvenile probation and later with the Texas Youth
Commission. There, she saw firsthand how instability at home impacted young lives.
“I remember telling my family that I really needed to move into a different career path,” Chamberlain said. “All of these boys had gotten into trouble because they lacked a stable family life. So I wanted a career that would allow me to spend lots of time with my sons.”
That realization led her to a career in education.
Through an alternative certification program via Region One ESC, she began teaching in 2003, spending seven years in elementary school classrooms. Over the next two decades, she grew into leadership roles across
three public school districts and Triumph Charter High School in Brownsville.
Today, Chamberlain serves as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) coordinator for Los Fresnos CISD, where she oversees a wide-ranging portfolio designed to prepare students for both college and the workforce. The district offers 19 programs of study spanning healthcare, welding, culinary arts, and more.
“These programs add value to the traditional high school diploma,” Chamberlain explained. “If a student earns a pharmacy technician certification while they’re in high school, they can work part time in that field while they’re in college—and earn more income than someone without those credentials.”
The financial impact is significant. “Just in the health science field alone this year, the cost savings to our students is over half a million dollars,” she said.
For Chamberlain, however, the most rewarding part is seeing former students succeed.
“Absolutely,” she said when asked if students return to share their stories. “They come back during their college breaks or time off work, and share what they’ve accomplished.”
She points to one standout example from the district’s partnership with Texas State Technical College. Students graduate not only with a high school diploma but also with an associate degree in mechatronics.
“One of them was hired at SpaceX,” she said. “And the need for skilled technicians here in the Valley is really
going to start to boom.”
That growth is fueled by expanding industry across the region, from manufacturing to aerospace. Chamberlain believes Los Fresnos CISD is uniquely positioned to meet that demand, thanks in part to its facilities and partnerships.
“Our welding facility has 40 welding booths, and there’s nothing like it in the Rio Grande Valley—not even at the colleges,” she said.
The district also collaborates with a wide range of community and industry partners, including healthcare systems, law enforcement, local businesses, and national companies. In the culinary arts program, students gain hands-on experience by catering real events— planning menus, preparing meals, and managing fullservice operations.
“They’re learning the whole application,” Chamberlain
said. “From planning to execution.”
At home, Chamberlain’s commitment to education is equally evident. A single mother of three sons, she has watched each pursue academic and professional success. Her oldest is a mechanical engineer in Dallas, her middle son earned a cybersecurity degree, and her youngest is graduating high school at 17, already having passed the pharmacy technician exam.
“I’m a first-generation college graduate,” she said. “And one thing I always tell my boys is, now we’ve started a new generation of college graduates.”
Despite her long career, retirement is not on her horizon just yet. “I’m not,” she said with a laugh. “I still have to put one more baby through college.”
Her advice to students reflects the same resilience and ambition that have defined her life.
“ don’t be afraid to take risks,” Chamberlain said. “Start something and finish it—but don’t be afraid to pivot. every day is a new day. invest in yourself and your education, and take the risk. You only live one life; live it to the fullest.”
From a self-taught reader spinning records in a small home to a leader shaping the workforce of South Texas, Chamberlain’s journey is one of purpose, perseverance, and the transformative power of education.
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
As most graduates of Harlingen High School’s Class of 1989 headed off to college, Christine Castillo chose a different path.
“I didn’t go to college,” Castillo said. “I did enroll in a medical assistant program several years after graduation, but it didn’t take long for me to realize healthcare wasn’t for me. That’s when I decided to pursue a career in the food industry.”
Around 1997, Castillo answered a help-wanted ad for a lunch lady position. By the time she arrived for the interview, the job had already been filled. Instead, she was offered a position with Edible Pursuits’ owner, Larry Wray.
“My first job was unforgettable,” Castillo recalled. “It was a wedding in Brownsville at the Alonzo Building. I sat on an ice chest in the back of an old blue Frito-Lay delivery truck they called ‘Big Bertha.’”
She helped unload dishes, set up equipment, and prepare for the event.
“We carried everything but the kitchen sink,” she said. “It was physically hard work, but I loved it.”
More than 30 years
“
i believe in a strong woman” Castillo said. “a woman should stand
up for herself. hold your head up high and carry the world in your heart.”
later, Castillo is still in the food industry—a career she never anticipated but quickly grew to love.
“My passion is seeing people’s happiness when they walk into their event and see the decorations and food displays,” she said. “It fuels my soul—even though over the years I’ve been partially run over by ‘Big Bertha’
and once had a butane stove explode in front of my face.”
Under Larry and Lisa Wray, Castillo learned the catering business from the ground up, from floral arrangements to designing elaborate food displays.
“Whether it was a 500-person wedding or a corporate event for a thousand, it was always
a challenge—but it got done,” she said.
Over the years, she has served four U.S. presidents, along with movie stars, comedians, and professional athletes. One memory stands out most.
“The one I enjoyed the most was George H.W. Bush,” Castillo said. “He was humble and down-to-earth. He talked about his grandkids and his wife.”
In the mid-2000s, the Wrays retired and closed their business.
Castillo briefly worked in fast food but found it unfulfilling. She soon joined Stefano’s Brooklyn Pizza, where owner Steve Eddik recognized her talents.
“He found out I had catering experience,” Castillo said. “He added catering to the restaurant, with me running it.”
Since then, she has maintained a demanding schedule.
“I’ve been working seven days a week, 12 to 14 hours a day,” she said. “If I don’t have an event outside the restaurant, I work here.”
Castillo describes herself as a “people person,” and her work allows her to connect with a wide range of individuals. Through Stefano’s catering services, she is also able to give back to the community. She participates in fundraisers for local families facing hardship and caters meals for special-needs students in the Harlingen school district’s Transitions Program.
“I love seeing their faces at the end of the school year when they get their awards,” she said. “The happiness I see makes my heart feel 10 times bigger.”
Castillo also embraced motherhood on her own terms, raising her now-adult children, Dee and Gabriel, as a single mother.
“I married my life, and I’m OK with that,” she said. “It was challenging—working late nights while helping with school projects—but my parents and grandparents helped when I needed them.”
Retirement is not in her plans anytime soon.
“I’ll keep working until my
on Friday, may 15,
body gives out,” she said. At the time of this writing, Castillo was also preparing for a new role: becoming a grandmother.
“Each event holds a piece of my heart,” she said. “I don’t mind working long
days to make sure everything is perfect and everyone is happy. That’s worth more than I ever dreamed of.”
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
After nearly three decades of service with the Brownsville Independent School District, Micaela Escobar has built a career defined by adaptability, leadership, and an unexpected passion for environmental stewardship.
Now serving as the district’s director for records, sustainability, and warehouse, Escobar has quietly led a transformation that is reshaping how thousands of students experience—and care for—the natural world.
Escobar’s journey with BISD began in 1997 as an accountant. Over 29 years, she has held a variety of roles, steadily expanding her expertise before stepping into her current position in 2020. At the time, the district’s environmental efforts were modest, largely centered on paper recycling.
Escobar saw untapped potential.
“I believed we could do more to create meaningful opportunities for students and campuses throughout the district,” she said. “I began reaching out to city, county, and state organizations to get guidance on programs that could strengthen our environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives and get students involved at the campus level.”
The results have been remarkable.
Since January 2021, Brownsville ISD has recycled 3,531 tons of commingled recyclables across the district. That effort has yielded
“ i always have this song in my mind: ‘¿dónde jugarán los niños?’ (Where the children will play?), from the mexican band maná,” escobar said while students were working at their stations in the garden at breeden elementary School in brownsville. “They need a green field and gardens. That’s why i do this work,” she added.
significant environmental benefits, including saving nearly 40,000 trees, conserving more than 13 million gallons of water, and preserving almost 30,000 cubic yards of landfill space.
Additional initiatives—such as crayon recycling and clothing and shoe collection programs—have further broadened the district’s sustainability footprint. But for Escobar, the impact
goes far beyond statistics.
Beginning in the 2024–2025 school year, BISD implemented a policy guaranteeing at least 15 minutes of daily unstructured recess for students in prekindergarten through fifth grade. The move underscores the district’s commitment to outdoor learning and access to green spaces.
According to Escobar, 89.3% of their students are classified as economically disadvantaged. “For many of them, school may be one of the few places where they can regularly experience nature, participate in outdoor
learning, and develop a meaningful connection to the environment,” she said.
To support that vision, Escobar has cultivated partnerships with local and regional organizations.
Working alongside Brownsville Beautification Committee Chair Oscar Zertuche, he secured funding to plant 136 trees across seven schools.
“The grant was issued to the Brownsville Beautification Committee to plant trees within BISD. This was the first of our district sustainability partnerships” Escobar said.
Today, reforestation programming has been introduced at 20 elementary campuses districtwide.
One standout example is Breeden Elementary School, where sustainability has become a defining part of campus culture. Students participate in activities ranging from gardening and recycling programs to the popular Egg-to-Chick project, all designed to foster handson environmental learning.
The school’s efforts have earned it the Healthy South Texas designation as well as 4-H Champion School recognition.
“The success of these initiatives would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of teachers and staff,” Escobar said. “The leadership and vision of people like Principal Petra Torres have played an essential role in inspiring students to become environmentally responsible and engaged members of their community.”
Escobar’s connection to nature, however, has roots in her own life story.
Born in Brownsville, she
moved with her family to Los Angeles at the age of four, growing up in East L.A. before returning to the Rio Grande Valley as a high school senior. The experience proved transformative.
“It was challenging in East L.A.,” she recalled. “We basically went from the house to school and from school to the house. The first time I noticed the stars was when we came back to Brownsville. I also loved it when it rained. Some people found it unusual that I would stand in the rain instead of running from it, but to me, it brought a sense of peace.”
That rediscovery of nature left a lasting impression—one that now shapes her work.
Interestingly, Escobar’s academic background is not in environmental science. She holds both
a bachelor of business administration and a master of business administration in business management from the University of Texas–Brownsville, along with professional certifications including SHRM-CP and certified school risk manager.
She credits that business foundation with helping her successfully design and implement districtwide sustainability initiatives.
Today, Escobar continues to expand BISD’s reach by collaborating with partners such as the city of Brownsville, Keep Brownsville Beautiful, Gladys Porter Zoo, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, and Sea Turtle, Inc.
Her work is also driven by a deeply personal motivation.
Escobar is married to Tim Ramirez and is part of a
blended family that includes three adult children and two grandchildren. Becoming a grandmother, she says, has strengthened her commitment to environmental stewardship.
“Becoming a grandmother has deepened my commitment to sustainability,” Escobar said. “It inspires my work to help create a better world for future generations. I believe that when we teach children to care for the environment, they help inspire their families to do the same.”
For Escobar, sustainability is more than a program—it is a generational mission. And through her leadership, thousands of Brownsville students are learning that even the smallest action can help shape the future of their community and the planet.
Friends dressed in glamorous attire to attend the premiere of The Devil Wears Prada 2, in early May at local theaters in Brownsville and Harlingen.
In keeping with the film’s theme, attendees dressed as characters from the movie, including Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), Andrea “Andy” Sachs (Anne Hathaway), and Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt).
photos
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
Liliana Peña’s fellow runners know her as “Lily Diamond.” It’s a fitting nickname for a triathlete who understands that pressure, over time, creates strength and brilliance. But the name didn’t originate on a racecourse.
The nickname stuck with her in a different way. Years ago, Peña adopted “Lily Diamond” as a social media handle—a nod to her late husband and a way to maintain a sense of privacy. Over time, it became something more. Today, in running circles across the Rio Grande Valley, it’s the name everyone recognizes.
And like the gem she’s nicknamed after, Peña has been shaped by immense pressure—refined not just by miles, but by loss.
That pressure intensified in October 2019, when her husband of 25 years, Rafael, passed away suddenly at just 45 years old.
At the time, Peña was
at the peak of her athletic life. She had just completed a full Ironman in The Woodlands and her third Boston Marathon within a single year. Then everything stopped.
“It doesn’t feel like I opened another chapter,” Peña said. “It feels like I opened another book.”
Peña’s journey into endurance sports didn’t begin with elite ambitions. It started in 2009 on the sidelines of her sons’ youth football practices.
A bilingual educator with a degree from the University of Texas at Brownsville, Peña spent long afternoons in the South Texas heat watching her boys train. When they complained about the weather, she issued a challenge.
“I told them, ‘Every time you guys have practice, I’m going to train too. Rain or shine—you do it, I do it.’”
What started as motivation for her children quickly became a personal passion. By 2012, she had earned a second degree in communication disorders from Utah State University. By 2014, she ran her first marathon. And in 2017, she reached one of the sport’s most prestigious stages: the Boston Marathon.
Qualifying for the Boston Marathon is a lifelong goal for many runners. Peña accomplished it five times.
She ran through the heavily secured years following the 2013 bombing and adapted again during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, when the race went virtual, Peña brought Boston to Brownsville.
“I felt very blessed,” she said. “I couldn’t go to Boston,
ance events in which she has participated, on may 16, 2026, in Port isabel.
“ The success of every woman should inspire another.”
“make yourself strong so that nothing can disturb your peace of mind, your purpose, or your success.”
so the community brought Boston to me. People ran with me and set up water stations—it was incredible.”
Her resume extends far beyond Boston: a 140.6mile full Ironman, the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, and ultramarathons reaching 50 miles. That same year, she placed third in her age group at the Houston Marathon— proof that she wasn’t just
to find each other again.” Today, each of her sons has followed a path of service: Rafael in the Navy, Ethan in the Coast Guard, and Kriz pursuing a career in the Air Force.
Two years ago, in a powerful full-circle moment, the family traveled to Hawaii to run a marathon together— her sons’ first.
In 2023, after two decades in education, Peña stepped away from teaching to pursue a new direction.
With support from her life partner, Eddie Reyes, she embraced entrepreneurship.
Together, they manage rental properties through REK Investments, contribute design work for a real estate publication, and operate a private charter business, “SPI Pontoon Boat Charters”.
Peña has even added scuba diving and surfing to her growing list of skills. Still, her commitment to service remains strong. She continues working as a speech-language pathologist assistant, helping children in Port Isabel find their voices.
Liliana Peña’s story is about more than athletic achievement. It’s about resilience—the kind that extends far beyond physical endurance.
finishing races; she was competing at a high level.
In the wake of Rafael’s passing and the isolation of the pandemic, Peña and her three sons—Rafael, Ethan, and Kriz, known as the “REK” boys—leaned on each other.
“We bonded throughout COVID,” Peña said. “We were together all the time— training, running. It became our therapy. We needed that
Because for Peña, the hardest races haven’t been measured in miles.
They’ve been measured in moments of loss, reinvention, and perseverance.
Whether she’s crossing a finish line, diving into the Gulf, or building a new future for her family, “Lily Diamond” continues to shine—proof that life’s greatest pressures can produce something extraordinary.
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
Anna Oquin’s story begins with a lesson she didn’t realize she was learning at the time. Born in Mexico and raised in Houston by a single mother, Oquin grew up watching resilience in action. Her mother worked two and sometimes three jobs to keep food on the table and a roof overhead. To Oquin, it wasn’t unusual —it was simply life.
“As a child, you don’t know any difference,” Oquin said. “You don’t know if you’re poor or rich. All I knew was watching my mother work hard and make sure we were taken care of.”
Those early experiences shaped Oquin’s outlook. Her mother never relied on government assistance, instead emphasizing independence, consistency, and dignity through work. That example left a lasting mark. “Watching her work instilled that ethic in me,” Oquin said. “It motivated me to want more and to do better.”
At just 16, Oquin took her first step into the workforce at a place that already held special meaning: McDonald’s. Growing up, visits to the restaurant were a rare treat—a reward for good behavior or achievement. So when a co-op teacher helped her secure an interview and she got the job, it felt like a milestone.
“I was excited. It was my first job, and it was at McDonald’s, which was already special to me,” she said.
Oquin started at the ground level, like many employees do—working the register or grill—and quickly found her footing in the fast-paced environment. She enjoyed the energy, the teamwork, and the interaction with customers. What she didn’t initially envision, however, was a long-term future with the company, much less ownership.
“I never really thought I
was going to be an owner,” she said. “It takes a lot of passion and commitment to be a franchisee. “I’m 1 in 8.”
One out of eight Americans has worked at McDonald’s, she explained.
Still, that uncertainty didn’t stop her from advancing. McDonald’s structured development system allowed her to steadily move up the ranks—from crew member to shift manager, then department
manager, and eventually general manager. With each promotion came new responsibilities and a simple question that drove her progress: What’s next?
That mindset would ultimately change her life.
One day, Oquin received a call from McDonald’s leadership asking if she would consider becoming an owner-operator. She didn’t hesitate.
“I believe when people
give you an opportunity, you never say no,” she said. “That opportunity might not come back again.”
By that time, she had met her future husband, Lonnie, also a McDonald’s employee. The two built not only a family but also a shared work ethic that leadership took notice of.
“I think McDonald’s recognized the work ethic that I had, and the work ethic that Lonnie had,” she said. “When they were looking for someone to put on track for ownership, someone suggested we be considered.”
In October 2001, the Oquin family moved from Houston to Brownsville, and on February 1, 2002, they officially became franchisees. Their first location, near the Gladys Porter Zoo, featured a zoo-themed interior that celebrated the local community.
From there, growth came steadily. Today, the Oquins own and operate 15 McDonald’s locations across South Texas. But expansion was never automatic — it was intentional.
“With McDonald’s, you really never have just one,” Oquin said. “But for us, it was always about deciding how many we could handle while still being part of our communities.”
“ i believe when people give you an opportunity, you never say no,” she said. “That opportunity might not come back again.”
becoming a franchisee through McDonald’s Next Generation program. Her daughter, Brittany, a University of Houston graduate, oversees marketing and community engagement efforts.
Community involvement has remained central to Oquin’s mission. She is deeply engaged in philanthropic and civic work, supporting organizations such as Ronald McDonald House Charities and participating in initiatives that promote wellness, financial independence, and professional development for women.
McDonald House Charities. Despite her success, Oquin is quick to redirect attention away from herself.
Her leadership extends across several influential boards, including the McDonald’s National Franchisee Leadership Alliance, the Greater Brownsville Economic Development Corporation, the International Bank of Commerce, and the Gladys Porter Zoo. She has also served in key roles with the Brownsville Public Utilities Board and Ronald
“I can’t do what I’ve done by myself,” she said. “It takes a whole village.”
That “village” includes her husband; her children, her mother—who once helped care for her children as she worked; and a loyal team of employees, many of whom have been with the company for decades.
Her children are now part of the business as well. Her son, Tristan, a Texas A&M graduate, is working toward
For Oquin, success is measured not just in business growth, but in the strength of relationships and the opportunities created for others. She embraces a philosophy often attributed to McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc: “None of us is as good as all of us.”
It’s a belief she has lived out—from a 16-year-old crew member to a respected business leader—proving that hard work, humility, and teamwork can turn even the smallest beginnings into something extraordinary.
Locally Owned Small Business
Owner and founder Cassandra Barrera is redefining movement in Brownsville through a modern approach to Pilates that blends precision, strength, and intentionality
Drawing from her background as a third-generation Pilates teacher, Cassandra created Studio C to offer an elevated fitness experience that blends classical Pilates principles with a contemporary, athletic approach to movement
Today, Studio C serves hundreds of clients throughout the Rio Grande Valley through reformer Pilates, barre, mat sculpt, dance cardio, and wellness events designed to help people move with confidence and purpose.
Brownsville, Texas @studiocpilates.co
Now booking via Mindbody
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
For Dr. Sandra Nieto, the road to retirement is not an ending but a return—to faith, family, and the same community that shaped her from childhood.
Born in Harlingen and raised in Raymondville from the third grade on, Nieto credits her upbringing by her mother and grandmother as the foundation of both her character and career.
“My parents divorced when I was 10, and we moved in with my grandmother,” she recalled. “So I was really raised by my mom and my grandma.”
That upbringing instilled resilience and direction. Her mother’s encouragement, paired with the steady prodding of two uncles— both educators—pushed her to keep moving forward. Their mantra was simple, yet profound: “OK, what’s next?”
It became a guiding question throughout her life.
After graduating from Raymondville High School, she pursued higher education at the University of Texas–Pan American, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She began her career in Edcouch-Elsa as a classroom teacher, specializing in reading and
to education, faith, and community
dr. Sandra nieto, director of curriculum and instruction for the raymondville independent School district, is seen in her office Tuesday, may 19, in raymondville.
working with elementary students across several grade levels.
“I’ve always been an avid reader,” Nieto said. “That naturally led me into teaching before I moved into administration.”
Still, the question persisted: What’s next?
She answered by continuing her education, even as life grew more complex. Marriage, motherhood, and professional responsibilities stretched her time thin, delaying her doctoral dreams. Yet the goal never
disappeared.
“I started a PhD, but life happens,” she said. “Between work and raising children, I had to put it off for a while. But I finished it when I was about 40.”
She eventually earned her doctorate online through Capella University, balancing a growing career in educational leadership.
Her journey in administration began in 2007 in San Perlita as a principal, followed by roles as assistant principal and principal in both Raymondville and Harlingen.
Along the way, she made a brief transition into higher education as associate vice president of College Readiness and Advancement for Texas State Technical College.
There, she oversaw programs including dual enrollment, migrant student initiatives, and the Challenger Learning Center—expanding her impact beyond traditional classrooms.
But public education, particularly in Raymondville, remained close to her heart.
“I graduated from
Raymondville High School, so to come back and eventually serve as principal there—that was coming full circle for me,” she said.
Her time as principal brought about one of her proudest achievements. Taking on the role initially with a oneyear plan, she stayed three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, the school earned an “A” rating—a milestone she calls her “biggest flex.”
“It was exactly what I was supposed to be doing,” she said.
She later moved into her current role as curriculum and instruction director at Raymondville ISD, a position she has held for the past four years. Now, with retirement less than two months away, she reflects not only on her career but also on what lies ahead.
Her future plans center on something she admits she once placed second: ministry.
A licensed local pastor and associate pastor at Valley Praise in Harlingen, she has spent the past five years preaching and serving parttime. Retirement will allow her to fully embrace that calling.
“That’s what I’m going to focus on now,” she said. “Something I didn’t prioritize before, but I should have.”
Faith has long been at the core of her identity—a legacy passed down from her grandmother.
“My grandmother was a strong believer in Christ,” she said. “That’s all we knew growing up. A lot of who I am is rooted in that faith.”
Her mother, too, played a role, serving as a church pianist—sometimes with her young daughter close by on a blanket beside her.
“That’s just how I was raised—in the church,” she said. “It’s always been reassuring to have God at the center of my life.”
Beyond ministry, retirement will also mean more time with family. She and her husband, Freddy Nieto—general manager of a ranch in Willacy County—have been married 22 years. Together, they raised two daughters, each pursuing very different but equally meaningful paths.
Their oldest, 20, attends Tarleton State University and is studying agriculture, following in her father’s footsteps. Their youngest, 13, is a seventh grader in Raymondville with a passion for rodeo—a pursuit that keeps the family traveling frequently.
“I’m a rodeo mom,” she said with a smile. “We travel a lot because that’s her dream — to make it on the rodeo circuit.”
As she prepares to close one chapter, she offers simple but powerful advice to the next generation—especially young girls just beginning their journeys.
dr. Sandra nieto, director of curriculum and instruction for raymondville iSd, shares her reflections on her career and upcoming retirement plans on Tuesday, may 19, in raymondville.
“ Challenge yourself,” she said. “You’re only as good as what you set your mind to. do the hard things. explore the world. learn from others.”
and when that journey brings them back home?
“Share what you’ve learned with the next generation.”
it’s advice she has lived: a life shaped by curiosity, perseverance, and purpose. and in stepping away from the classroom, she leaves behind more than a career—she leaves a legacy rooted in service, faith, and the enduring question that guided her all along: What’s next?
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
Maria Pineda’s dedication to education was nurtured during her childhood. The Los Fresnos United principal was raised by parents who hadn’t finished high school, but they wanted their children to have what they did not.
“They were very adamant about our education,” Pineda recalled. “I took it to heart, and as a result, I had perfect attendance all the way through high school.”
That discipline became the foundation for everything that followed. Growing up with three sisters—two older and one younger—she was surrounded by strong influences.
“My older sisters … helped with my upbringing, especially where school came in,” she explained.
Pineda learned more about the importance of dedication to a purpose in band. She began playing the flute in fifth grade. With the help of her high school band director, Mrs. Ochoa, Pineda earned first chair and All-State honors. She also learned to play the piccolo.
“Mrs. Ochoa saw my potential when others didn’t,” Pineda said. “She coached me to become the best version of myself. Her guidance became a model for how I guide my students today.
Sometimes, all it takes is one person believing in you.”
After graduating high school in three-and-a-half years, Pineda took a job at Target while simultaneously taking college courses. At work she went from employee to team leader and eventually became an assistant manager.
“The shifts were hard,” Pineda said. “Sometimes I started my work shift at 3 in the morning. I would go to class afterward, then go back to work after that.”
Pineda eventually earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, a Master in Special Education, and a leadership certification. In the middle of that grind, a
coworker who noted Pineda’s determination gifted her a cap and gown to celebrate her progress.
“That was such an inspiring moment,” Pineda said. “I cried and cried because it made me feel like not just my family believed in me but my coworkers did too.”
When Pineda finally stepped into education, she knew almost immediately she had found her place. She began by teaching kindergarten at Rancho Verde Elementary School. From there, her career progressed steadily. She has been an assistant principal and a principal in elementary and middle schools and now serves as principal at Los
Fresnos United, a ninth and tenth grade campus.
“The kids I started with in kindergarten are now seniors … and I’m so excited to see them cross that stage,” she said. “It makes me so proud to have been a part of their lives. I’m really happy where I’m at. I really love the campus. I love this age group, but I would love to be the principal at the eleventh and twelfth grade campus one day.”
Outside of school, her greatest source of pride is her children. Her daughter, the youngest, just finished college and is pursuing a career in healthcare. Her two sons are in the Navy and currently deployed as part of the
ongoing hostilities in the Middle East.
“I’m praying that my sons and their fellow sailors return home safely,” Pineda said. “My faith in God is what gets me through the day without worrying too much. My faith has always been important and a big part of my life.”
At the heart of her education philosophy is a deep belief in understanding and having compassion for each and every student. When a student acts out in a negative way, her first reaction is not about punishment but about understanding the root of their behavior. Her advice to students reflects that perspective.
“ i tell students to live happy and always have someone they can talk to,” Pineda said. “i feel like this was my calling—to help kids as much as i can.”
By Benjamin Treviño Staff Writer
For Jovita Chase, the restaurant business has never been just a way to make a living— it’s been a lifelong calling rooted in family, resilience, and community.
In July 2025, Chase celebrated the 50th anniversary of Brownsville Coffee Shop No. 2, a milestone that reflects not only decades of hard work but also a legacy that began in childhood and continues to thrive at the heart of Brownsville.
“It’s been wonderful,” Chase said. “I love interacting with my customers and catching up with their lives. They’ve become part of my family, so I don’t look at it as a job. I look forward to coming in.”
Circumstances prompted the family’s entry into the restaurant business. Chase’s mother, Rafaela Manzano Alviar, became a single mother with two children, and in order to pay the bills, Alviar went to work as a waitress.
“Her boss was very kind,” Chase said. “My brother and I would hang
around the restaurant and play in the corner until her shift ended. So I’ve been
in the restaurant business since I was three.”
By 1964, Alviar had
saved enough money to open the original Brownsville Coffee Shop on Elizabeth Street. The diner was a hit, and she eventually opened three more restaurants in Brownsville.
Chase was 15 when she became a waitress at her mother’s original location.
“I was so excited to go to work,” Chase said. “I bought myself a white uniform and a red apron, but when I waited on my first customer, I was so nervous. The first couple
of days were very difficult for me, but then I got the hang of it.”
Chase learned everything about the restaurant business by working alongside her mother. There were only two Brownsville Coffee Shops when her mother retired in 1975.
Chase’s brother, Andres, took over the original restaurant, but it closed after he became ill and could no longer run the business.
Chase assumed ownership of Brownsville Coffee Shop No. 2 on International Boulevard, and like the original diner, it has become more than just a place to eat.
“My customers are my extended family,” Chase said. “We’ve had people get engaged here. They’ve gotten married, and now their children and grandchildren are coming here to eat. It
warms my heart.”
Most of the food at Brownsville Coffee Shop No. 2 is still prepared using Alviar’s original recipes, including popular favorites like the carne guisada plate and menudo. But Chase has also added some of her own specialties to the menu.
“One item we just introduced is the Borrachos,” Chase said. “They’re tamales, but they’re thicker than the regular ones. They have a lot of jalapeños, and they’re becoming very popular. I believe they are the best tamales in South Texas.”
The city of Brownsville, Cameron County, and District 37 State Representative Janie Lopez sent congratulatory proclamations when Chase marked the restaurant’s anniversary last year.
Brownsville Coffee Shop No. 2 is also a three-time winner of The Brownsville Herald’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
“I was very honored by the recognition. I am just blessed to have grown up with a mom who instilled a strong work ethic in me, so
she shares the credit with me,” Chase said. At 78, Chase has no immediate plans to retire. She says she’ll keep working as long as she’s healthy enough to continue. Her advice to the younger generation is straightforward:
“ be sure that you love whatever you do for a career. You have to have a passion for it. if you’re in it just for the money, you’ll be miserable,” she said.
BBy Carrie Fullerton Professional Organizer in the Rio Grande Valley
usy families do not need complicated meal plans. They need simple systems that make feeding their family easier during real life—work schedules, school activities, exhaustion, appointments, and the nights nobody feels like cooking.
After years of helping families organize their homes and routines, one thing becomes very clear: the best meal systems are the ones people can actually maintain.
Here are five simple meal planning, prep, and freezer systems that truly support real life.
1.Create simple weekly meal themes
Decision fatigue is real. One of the easiest ways to simplify meal planning is assigning a loose theme to each day.
Examples:
Monday: Chicken
Tuesday: Taco Tuesday
Wednesday: Wing Wednesday
Thursday: Out or planned leftovers
Friday: Homemade or store-bought frozen casseroles, Italian or family favorites
Saturday: Skillet, stir-fry, soup, or salad
Sunday: BBQ, link sausage, or burgers
This removes the daily stress of constantly figuring out what to cook.
2. prep ingredients instead of full meals
Many busy women do better prepping components rather than entire Pinterest-style freezer meals.
1 or 2 simple prep ideas on the weekend:
- Need to chop onions and peppers; chop in bulk to use later.
- Brown several pounds of hamburger meat.
- Freeze cooked chicken portion cooked cauliflower rice.
- Prep bulk shredded cheese. Wash fruit and vegetables.
- Having ingredients ready makes weeknight cooking much faster and more realistic.
3. Use the ‘cook once, freeze twice’ method.
One of the most effective freezer systems is cooking extra on purpose.
When making soup, taco meat, casseroles, or cooked proteins, double the batch and freeze portions for later.
Even freezing one extra meal a week adds up quickly.
4. Keep a simple freezer inventory.
Most people forget what they already have.
If the system is too complicated, it will not last.
5. Build a ‘real-life backup meal’ shelf.
Every family needs simple backup meals for hard days.
Keep easy options available:
- frozen cooked proteins
- broth
- frozen vegetables
- pasta sauces
- canned staples
- freezer-friendly soups
- pre-cooked rice or cauliflower rice
Meal planning is not about perfection. It is about reducing stress and supporting your family during busy seasons.
At Fullerton’s Professional Organizing, we believe simple systems create more peace at home. The best systems are the ones that work during real life—not just on perfect days.
For more simple meal planning, freezer prep, and realistic home systems, watch my YouTube channel and follow along as we simplify life one small step at a time.
For this year’s Independence Day celebration, food becomes more than a centerpiece—it becomes a reflection of summer, community, and the many cultures that shape the American experience. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of the season, this dish highlights fresh produce, bold color, and elevated comfort, making it equally at home at a backyard gathering, a poolside brunch, or an intimate dinner beneath the fireworks. With a balance of rustic Americana and chef-driven sophistication, it captures the essence of summer entertainment.
By Monica Pean Chef and food stylist monivane@hotmail.com
But behind the recipe is a deeper story of gratitude and identity. As a Mexican immigrant chef, this holiday represents more than tradition—it symbolizes opportunity, resilience, and belonging. This Fourth of July marks more than 250 years of freedom in America, and for many immigrants, it is also a reminder of the chance to build a life, pursue a
dream, and contribute something meaningful to the communities they now call home. Through food, culture becomes a bridge: a way to honor one’s roots while embracing a new chapter.
In many ways, that is what American cuisine has always represented — a blending of histories, influences, and personal stories brought together around the table. This dish serves as both a celebration of the season and a tribute to that spirit: one that values diversity, creativity, and the shared experience of gathering through food.
Ingredients
5 oz of baby arugula
0.7 oz Fresh Mint
4 chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp of chicken bouillon
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
1-2 tbsp. Agave syrup
1 cup of extra virgin olive oil
4 pieces of watermelon (seedless), cut to 1 inch thickness
2 cups of fresh blueberries (1 cup for dressing and rest for garnish)
2 cups of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese (sheered)
Instructions
Blueberry vinaigrette
1 cup of blueberries
1/3 cup of vinegar
1/3 cup of olive oil
Agave syrup
Pinch of salt and pepper
- Add all ingredients into a highspeed blender or food processor.
- Blend on high until completely smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning (more salt, vinegar, or a touch of honey if needed). Set aside.
- Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, chicken bouillon, and olive oil.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a large pan on medium heat and seal it for two minutes on each side.
- Transfer the pan with chicken to a preheated oven to 350°F and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked thoroughly. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken. I recommend using a cooking thermometer to determine exactly when chicken is fully cooked. Once it is cooked, remove the pan from the oven and set it aside; let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Using a large cookie cutter, cut the watermelon slices into circles 1 inch thick. Use a knife to trim off any parts that make the circle even, so it sits flat on a plate.
Salad
- For the salad, in a large bowl, toss arugula, mint, olive oil, and salt.
- Arrange the watermelon circles on a plate, then top each one with cooked chicken and a small handful of the arugula mixture.
- Sprinkle each salad with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, drizzle with olive oil and blueberry vinaigrette, garnish with fresh blueberries around, and enjoy!
You’ve probably heard someone say, “Back then, I could eat anything I wanted and never gain a pound. “Sound familiar?
Well, that’s not just a “slowing metabolism.” It’s your digestive system and your hormones teaming up for a plot twist. As we age, hormone levels dip, digestive function loses some of its sharpness, and then, to spice things up, we add modern life: stress, processed foods, hidden chemicals, and sleep deprivation. That combination creates the perfect storm of inflammation.
And inflammation? That’s the new global currency inside the body, expensive, exhausting, and draining right down to your mitochondria, the tiny engines that keep your energy alive.
Hang on tight for more! You may have heard people say, “The gut is the new brain.” Researchers, including Dr. Stephen Gundry and many leaders in gut-brain science, are beginning to recognize the digestive system as far more than a food chute. It’s an entire operating system. A command center. A living world.
This gut “world” isn’t just a tube of muscle and tissue (which could cover an entire tennis court if stretched out). It’s home to trillions of bacteria, both good and bad, working around the clock to keep you alive. This ecosystem communicates directly with your brain through neurotransmitters, shaping what you crave, how you feel, and how you
respond to stress. Therefore, when you say, “I have a gut feeling,” you’re not being poetic. You’re being biological.
Your intestines, both the small and large, have layers of defense. The mucosa is the first line, trapping pathogens and absorbing nutrients. Beneath that lies a layer rich in white blood cells, your immune system’s protective army. Deeper below, the tissue that makes up your intestinal wall. When this delicate balance is disturbed, inflammation takes hold, and your hormones start dancing to the wrong rhythm.
Here’s the hard truth: our gut health, hormone balance, and even disease risk are shaped not just by what we eat, but by where and how we live, our environment, culture, habits, and even stress patterns. It’s all connected.
Often, it’s easy to blame “getting older” for the fatigue, bloating, mood swings, or weight changes; it’s truly about understanding that your body is an ecosystem in motion.
What is more, that ecosystem needs attention, nourishment, and a little humor, because the body, like life, is a work of art in progress. Your gut influences mood, cravings, memory, focus, anxiety, addiction patterns, and even your ability to regulate weight. Take leptin, for example, the hormone that tells you you’re full. Many people struggling with weight have no idea that their issue isn’t “willpower” but
By Yessica Y. Acosta MSN, APRN, FNP-C, ENP-C Women’s Health Advocate & Health Consultant
Vincit Medical Practice & Aesthetics 3000 Central Blvd., Suite 3 Brownsville, TX 78520 Phone: 956-443-0049 frontdeskvmp@vincitmed.com
Yessica Acosta is a double board-certified Family and Emergency Nurse Practitioner, founder of Vincit Medical Practice & Aesthetics, and a passionate advocate for women’s health, preventive care, and regenerative wellness. She blends clinical expertise with forward-thinking education to empower women to take authorship of their health across every stage of life.
leptin resistance or imbalance. And here’s where the plot thickens: Your gut microbiome directly controls your hormone balance. When the ecosystem gets disrupted by stress, sugar, processed foods, proton-pump inhibitors, NSAIDs, antibiotics, or poor sleep, it sends shockwaves through the entire body. Those triggers start stripping away the protective mucous layer of the gut. Good bacteria weaken. Bad bacteria overgrow. This imbalance,
called dysbiosis, opens the way for harmful organisms to nibble at the intestinal lining that was built to protect you.
At first, the body fights back with a local inflammatory response.
But if the poor diet continues, the lining becomes compromised and permeable. That means particles that were meant to stay inside the gut start slipping out: food particles, bacterial fragments, toxins… the whole mess. Now we go from a local reaction to a whole-body alarm system. A danger cell activation as a systemic inflammatory response.
The immune system flips into “cell danger response,” calling for backup from white blood cells, platelets, bone marrow, and everyone. The peritoneal space becomes inflamed. This is the birth of leaky gut syndrome: carrying bloating, irregular bowels, fatigue, and an unexplained inflammation you may describe as “general malaise.”
Contained, this might look like colitis, diverticulosis, or diverticulitis.
But when these particles enter the bloodstream, they break through the blood-brain barrier, that sacred wall meant to protect your brain. The brain becomes contaminated with fragments of food, bacterial debris, and feces. The brain becomes inflamed. Not sterile. Not sharp. Mental fog makes an entrance.
Slower thinking, brain fog, mood shifts, attention issues, cognitive decline, and mental health issues not limited to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
And here’s the part most people never hear:
When the gut becomes too inflamed, the body tries to protect
Yessica Y. acosta and dr. arturo rodriguez, who is the director of health, Wellness, and animal Services for the city of brownsville, attended the Sí lantro Festival. The event took place on Saturday, march 21, 2026, at Southern Pacific linear Park, located on ringgold St. in brownsville.
the brain by shutting down gut-tobrain communication. This is the emergency “gate closing.” Helpful short-term. Devastating long-term.
Because that silence leads to disrupted neurotransmitters, withdrawn glial support cells, and pruning of the dendrites that should be helping your brain stay connected and resilient.
Let’s simplify what’s happening inside
• Your intestines, both small and large, have multiple layers of defense.
• The mucosa: your nutrientabsorbing, pathogen-trapping shield
• The immune layer: packed with white blood cells
• The structural lining: the barrier that keeps the world inside your gut
•When those defenses fall, inflammation rises, and your hormones follow the chaos.
and here’s the truth that stings a bit: Your gut, your hormones, your mood, and your disease risk aren’t just shaped by age. They’re shaped by what you eat, how you sleep, how you live, your culture, your stress, and your environment.
While it’s easy to blame “getting older” for fatigue, bloating, mood swings, or weight gain, the real story is this: Your body is an ecosystem. a living world. and that world needs attention, nourishment, and sometimes a sense of humor, because the human body, like life, is a masterpiece in progress.
By Carmen Nordyke Travel agent azucarmen@aol.com
Traveling becomes much easier when you plan carefully, whether you are exploring your city, visiting another part of your country, or going overseas. A few simple steps can save time, money, and stress.
When traveling in your city, preparation is still important. Check traffic, parking, and weather before you leave. For example, if you are attending a concert downtown in Austin or visiting a local festival, buying tickets online and reserving parking can save you
Simple planning saves time, money, and stress on any trip
both time and frustration. Carry only what you need, such as your phone, identification, and a small amount of cash.
Although traveling within your own country may be easier, it also
requires planning. First, check the best seasons to visit the place you are interested in. Book flights, trains, or hotels as early as possible to get better prices. For example, a trip to New York City is often less expensive if you book two or three months ahead.
International travel requires extra preparation. Make sure your passport is valid with a minimum of 6 months from your departure date; some countries will deny entry if your passport is close to expiring, and always check if you need a visa; many countries are adopting a special permit to enter them. Research the area you are visiting so you know what to pack. Some
places are hot during the day and cold during the night. That is why the clothing you choose is extremely important. Travel with the minimum you feel comfortable with; you can always buy essentials almost everywhere you go. Comfort is a key word to enjoy your trip. For example, a trip to Italy may require comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and covering your shoulders and knees when entering some churches.
Always keep digital and printed copies of your reservation confirmations, credit cards and documents, and list of important phone numbers.
Also, notify your bank and credit cards which countries you will visit, and always consider travel insurance.
No matter where you travel, planning ahead makes every trip safer, smoother, and more enjoyable. Working with a travel consultant helps you every step of the way!
Junior League of Brownsville
Special to Inspire Magazine
Cinderella’s Closet, a signature project of the Junior League of Brownsville (JLB). What began as a provisional project from the class of 2023-2024 has evolved into a powerhouse of community confidence, ensuring that students have the chance to shine, regardless of their socio-demographic.
The premise of Cinderella’s Closet is straightforward but profound: JLB members collect new and gently used formal dresses, shoes, and accessories, which are then provided to local students in need at no cost to them or their families. In addition to picking out a dream dress, we also provide real-life skill workshops. To name a few: Banking 101 and Career Skills & Mental Health. The goal isn’t just to provide a dress; it’s to provide an experience. When a student walks into the “closet,” they aren’t treated like a charity recipient. They are treated like a VIP, with personal stylists by JLB volunteers and local boutique retailers helping them find the perfect fit and style that reflects their personality.
The Junior League of Brownsville has been a pillar of female leadership and civic action since 1939. Cinderella’s Closet serves as a physical manifestation of the League’s core values: service and empowerment.
For the volunteers, the impact is witnessed in the “mirror moment,” that specific second when a young woman sees herself transformed and realizes her sense of belonging. For the community, it’s a reminder that Brownsville looks after its own through collaboration
efforts from local businesses to citizens of our town. We aren’t just giving away dresses; we are giving these young women the confidence to stand tall and celebrate their achievements alongside their peers.
Cinderella’s Closet is a testament to what happens when a dedicated group of women identifies a gap in the community and fills it with grace. Through the Junior League of Brownsville’s efforts, the “fairytale” of a perfect prom night becomes a reality for students, proving that in Brownsville, style and soul live happily ever after.
