Latinx International San Antonio May 2024

LATINX

MaytéDanyelaRuiz LaTamalera

FilmWriter/Actress

LIVING YOUR DREAMS WHILE JUGGLING LIFE

MOTHER’SDAY EDITION

A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO THE WOMEN THAT INSPIRE US!

OUR TEAM

LETTERFROM THEEDITOR

I believe our dreams are not just destinations but blueprints for the extraordinary. Let this magazine be the compass guiding you to embrace your passions, defy limitations, and carve your own path towards the stars."

DearReaders,

AsIstepintotheroleof Editor-in-Chief,I'mthrilledto embarkonthisjourneywith you.Ourmagazineismore thanjuststories it'sacanvas fordreams,aplatformfor

WhateverItouchprospers,and successfollowsmeeverywhere!

DUETERONOMY 28:8

Thankyouforentrusting uswithyourstoriesand dreams Together,let's inspire,empower,and uplifteachotheraswe journeytowardthestars.

Warmregards, creativity,andabeaconof inspiration.Ibelieveinthe powerofourdreamstoshape ourdestiny.Throughour pages,let'sexploreuncharted territories,embraceselfdiscovery,anddaregreatlyin pursuitofouraspirations.

Editor-in-Chief VeronicaAmaro

INTHIS ISSUE

We are dedicated to spotlighting our community's diverse experiences in Fashion and Entertainment, Health and Nutrition, and Sports. From emerging designers to seasoned performers, we celebrate creativity and innovation. We empower individuals to prioritize theirwell-beingandcultivatehealthyhabits.InSports,wechampionathleticismandunity. Joinusasweelevatevoices,inspiredreams,andchampionafutureofboundlesspotential.

Let’s raise our voice in honor of Mothers

In the heart of fiery lands, where love's embrace Fills the air with warmth and grace, Reside the mothers of Latin descent, Whose love is an eternal ascent.

Their laughter, like the salsa's beat, Brings joy to every street, With eyes that sparkle like the stars above, They shower us with boundless love.

In their arms, we find solace sweet, Where troubles vanish, fears retreat. Their strength, a fortress, unwavering and true, Guides us through skies of azure blue.

From dawn's first light to dusk's soft glow, They nurture dreams, help them grow. With hands that weave tales of hope and cheer, They chase away every shadow of fear.

In every dish, a taste of home, A flavor that whispers "you're never alone." Fromsavory empanadas to dulce de leche, Their cooking, a love language we'll forever relish.

With a spirit that dances like the tango's sway, They light up our lives in every way. Their resilience, a beacon in the darkest night, Guides us towards futures bright.

So on this day, let's raise our voice, In honor of mothers, our eternal choice. For Latina moms, with hearts so grand, Their love, a melody across the land.

MAYTÉ DANIELA RUIZ

“ThisMommy,Mama,Mom, Mami,bruh…willalways continuetostrivetobebetter thanIwasyesterday.”

There is no hood like Motherhood. It’s a strength like no other, one that can be compared for centuries and even though there are no instructions on how to be the perfect mother…a woman’s intuition kicks in and we do ourbest.

Whether we learn from the women before us or we read others' opinions, watch TikToks, or reels on how to conquer motherhood, nobody’s perfect. We all have our moments of happiness, excitement, anxiousness, worry, heartbreak, and the list of emotionsgoesonandon.

My struggle began at the young age of 16. Nobody can really say they are ready to be a Mom and as a teenager, well…we are barely learning about the confusing world around us, much less ready to be responsible for another human being. I became severely sick and when I was taken to the doctor in Alice, TX, he ran all sorts of tests, bloodwork,CTscans,andEKGs.

The results showed that I had an autoimmune disease called Lupus and was a borderline diabetic. We had no idea what all this meant. Family and friends thought I was dying and they treated me as such. For 7 months, my life consisted of doctor's visits and cutting sugar from my diet. I was extremely weak and visited the school nurse regularly. Friends would carry my backpack to and from different classes and there were times when I would just go lay down in the nurse's office and cry. The nurse became my confidant and she would give me crackers and apple juice when my sugar was too low. The teachers knew that if I wasn’t in class, Mayte was in the nurse's office. It didn’tstopmefromgettinggoodgrades.

“When are you going to tell your Mom?” the nurse asked me one day in December. The question was confusing. Tell my Mom what exactly? The nurse, who saw me on a daily basis since August, had her own diagnosis on my health. She suspected that I was pregnant. The thought raced through my head. Could it be that everything I was feeling was more than just Lupus? Was there a little someone growing inside me? Everyone always wondered how I didn’t know. Well, I was under the care of a doctor. How did the doctor not know after so many tests? I was also very thin, my abdomen was soft and I was sick everyday. Due to this, I was put on homebound instruction and worked on modules for the rest of mysophomoreyear.

My family didn’t take it very well. The positive pregnancy test came as a huge shock and my world flipped. The doctor didn’t know what to say except that I was about 30 weeks pregnant and it was a girl. In about 2 months, I was going to be a Mom,aMomwhostillhadLupus.

My daughter was born in February. When they placedherinmyarms,Iquicklyexaminedher.She hadall10littlefingersand10littletoes.Shelooked at me and gave a big yawn. Mija was tired, we had gone through so much. That day had started out gloomy and gray, but the moment she was born, the sunlight peered through the clouds. This was a sign from heaven that everything was going to be alright.

For the next nine years, my daughter was cared for by me, and also blessed to be raised by her grandmother, great-grandmother and great aunt. During those years, I was in remission from Lupus and graduated high school as a junior. Yes, I was a statistic but I broke barriers for no one expects a teenage mom to graduate high school much less go to college. I wanted to be a pharmacist and started my path to a degree in Biology. I received my Associates in PrePharmacy and became a pharmacy technician. I worked mainly in retail and soon learned to mix I.V.’s for home infusion therapy. The pharmacy life was fun, rewarding and fast paced. The day would speed by with patients coming in and out, droppingofforpickinguptheir

I broke barriers for no one expects a teenage mom to graduate high school much less go to college.

prescriptions, handling phone calls, making blister packs for nursing homes and mixing I.V. fluids. While I was working, Mija was at daycare. She would look through the window from the playroom, awaiting my arrival. We would go eat and have fun before I dropped her off with my Mom. She loved being in the presence of my Mom and Grandmother. They would take her to the bingo while I attended evening college classes. That's right, I continued myeducationtowardsmypharmacydegree.

I had dreamed of being Dr. Mayte Ruiz, PharmD. Little did I know that when you attend pharmacy school, it's not ideal to work due to the heavy course load. The pharmacy hours conflicted with my university classes. How was I going to provide for my daughter? When was I going to spend time with her? There was only one reasonable solution, I was going to change my major to something I could finish quickly andalsobepresentthroughmija’smilestones.

About a year and a half later, I received my Bachelors degree in Education. I became certified to teach 4th through 8th grade in all subject areas. Seventeen years later, I have now taught 5th grade Monolingual and Bilingual, 3rd grade Math…I had to receive another certification to teach 3rd grade. I remember thinking to myself, I don’t know anything about teaching phonics (the study of letter pronounication), I’m not going to pass. Guess what? I passed and became certified to teach Early Childhood through 8th grade in all subject areas. I’ve also taught 7th grade Reading, 6th7th grade Monolingual and Dual Language Science, and my favorite - 8th grade Science. Teaching is so rewarding, especially when you see past students being productive in society. Some have their own families, military, real estateagents,nursesandsomeIhaveinspiredto becometeacherstoo!

We as women wear many hats! You’ll hear me jokingly talk about changing hats or wearing multiple ones at the same time. While wearing the “Teaching Hat”, my “Mommy Hat” was always on and sometimes flipped on backwards. In fact, I was blessed with two sons, they are now 14 and 11 years old. My blue-eyed and green-eyed monsters, I call them out of carino! My daughter took on the bigsisterrolelikeachampandis like their “little mommy”. She became my biggest helper when I decided to go back to school to receive my Master’s degree in Instructional Design and Technology. This degree will enhance any future possibilities in case I ever decide to teach adults, do project management, orevencreateonlineclasses.

One thing I really enjoy is making memories, especially around the holidays. This is how “La Tamalera” came to existence. For Christmas, I would make homemade tamales for my family. My Abuelita loved the fact that she taught me well. These tamales became popular quickly through my coworkers, who insisted that I needed to sell them.

After meeting with my kids and careful thought, “La Tamalera” was born in 2019. I was making 40-50 dozen a weekend! This side hustle has won me 1st place at the Pearsall Tamale Cook Off in 2021 and also 1st place at the ArtisanCraftBarTamaleFestival in 2023. I expanded the menu of tamales with different ingredientsandpossibilities.

My creativeness and curiosity keeps me from being stagnant. If there is something that sparks my interest, I’m not afraid of trying or learning from it. The culture in my city of San Antonio, TX, allows me to experience and learn. Through networking and creating positive relationships, the doors of opportunity have opened for me inthefilmscene.

For the past three years, my talent has been shared amongst producers and directors which landed me roles in different projects. Whether it be an actress, producer assistant, assistant director, script supervisor, an extra…I was always willing to lend a hand and be present. I’m blessed to have written my first film and it's currentlyinproduction.

Our production crew and cast have been working very hard and we are respectful of our familytimeandalsoourfulltime jobs. This is what it's all about! Learning from seasoned professionals who are willing to share their expertise and give hands-on experience. Thank you, LatinX International, for trusting in me in becoming a part of the wonderful journey of this magazine/podcast. For this, Iamextremelygrateful!

This Mommy, Mama, Mom, Mami, bruh…will always continue to strive to be better than I was yesterday. Many experiences have molded me into the Chingona I am today. Whomever you call “Mom”, make sure to give them a warm hug this Mother’s Day. Every Mommy has their story, learn from them or the rest of us who live everyday trying to figure it all out. Now, I have to learn to beaGRANDMA,I’msoexcited!

Happy Mother’s Day…Feliz dia de las Madres to all of our LatinX International readers and viewers!

Mayté Danyela Ruiz

FROMREFUGEE TOEDUCATOR

The Inspiring Journey of Dr. Renelinda Arana Bressler

R nelinda Arana Bressler’s journey is thing short of remarkable. A testament the resilience and transformative power education. Born into circumstances that rced her family to seek refuge from anagua, Nicaragua to the United States, octor Bressler did not allow her early life allenges to define her future. She anneled these experiences into a passion r learning and teaching. This ultimately aped her into a respected educator and inspirationtomany.

. Bressler believed that education could en doors for a better life. Her wavering determination led her to excel her studies. After graduating with nors from NEISD Churchhill High hool, she studied for two years at SAC d received a perfect GPA. From here, e pursued an even higher education rning a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology th a concentration in Mexican American udies and Demography from the niversity of Texas at Austin. It was at UT here she developed her love for the social ences. This gained her a place at inceton University, furthering her ucation and receiving a Master of Art daPhDinSociology.

“Dr. Bresslers story is an inspiration to students and educators alike.”

Her focused studies in demography, immigration and incarceration reflect her deep commitment to understanding and addressing the complex issues that affect marginalizedcommunities.

She returned to San Antonio and works as an assistant professor at Our Lady of the Lake University continuing to make significant contributions to the fields of sociology and education. Dr. Bresslers story is an inspiration to students and educators alike. Beyondtheclassroom,sheactively

engages in community initiatives, working towards educational equity andsocialjustice

Her transition from refugee to respected professor serves as a powerful example of the transformative potential education has had on her life and the many livesshehastouched.

Her dedication to her students and her research continues to empower others, fostering a learning culture and leaving a legacy of hope and inspiration.

TATTOOARTISTANDMODEL: BETHHARPER

“I'maSanAntoniotattooartistandthe

proudownerofBeBe’sBeautifulPain Tattoos.Asasinglemomoffour,including twoIadoptedfiveyearsago,mykidsare myinspirationanddrivetosucceed.”

Inajourneyfueledbyloveforherchildrenanda passionfortattooing,Beth,aproudsinglemother offour,embarkedonapathtofollowherheart. Herfascinationwithtattoosbeganattheageof thirteenwhenshewitnessedhermothergetting inkedforthefirsttime.Inspiredbytheexperience, Bethexpressedherdesiretobecomeatattooartist andmodel.Despiteveeringoffcourseinher youth,Bethreturnedtoherpassionfouryearsago, largelyself-taughtandundeterredbythe challengesahead.

InJanuary2020,Bethplacedherfirsttattoo,a simpleoutlineofTexas,markingthebeginningof herflourishingcareer.Witheachtattoo,she embracedthelearningprocess,acknowledging failuresasopportunitiesforgrowth.Encouraging otherstopursuetheirdreams,Bethemphasizes perseveranceandtheimportanceofasupportive community.

BETHHARPER

“From mommy to mommy if you have a passion, a gift or a dream and have to balance it with the day to day remember this: Do not give up! It will get easier. “

- Beth

Launching her ow 2021, Beth thrived and business own each day's lessons. journey took an un when she lost her broken partnersh facing rejection a Beth refused to despair. Motivate children and her belief in herself, pursued opportuni foundanewhome

Now, in 2024, Be having achieved g ago. With the su tattoo family at Tattoo," she ve teaching and partic first tattoo Reflecting on her offersamessageof empowerment, e fellowwomenfacin

Her story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to oneself. Beth's journey reminds us that despite the challenges life may present, positive action and unwavering determination can pave the way for success. As she continues to grow and learn, Beth encourages others to embrace new experiences and remain openminded. 6

Beth expresses gratitude for her journey and the opportunity to inspire others. With humility and grace, she acknowledges the support that has propelled her forward. Beth's story is a reminder that with courage, resilience, and a supportive community, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve their dreams.

CFO OF DIVERSE CONSTRUCTION GROUP LLC

ElaineHernandez

Friend,Mentor,Mother,Sister,businesspartnerwife MothersDay.Adayofcelebrationforallmothers,young andold,torecognizethemother’scontributiontothe world.IfyoulookupthedefinitionofMother,itstates…” AFemaleParent,GiveBirthTo,Bringupwithcareand Affection”.Averysimplisticdefinitionofaverycomplex woman.MydefinitionissomuchmorecomplexasI writethiswithElaineinmind

By Dario Hernandez

Elaineisamotherof10,6boysand4 girls,adaughter,afriend,anurturer, ahousekeeper,achef,asister,awife, amentor,ataxi…allthatevenbefore shestartsherdaytogotowork.She isatherapist,adoctor,abanker,a beautifulsoul.Sheisnotthegluethat holdseverythingtogether,sheisthe concretethatbindsherfamily,and herfamily,thathasnoend.Her generousandhugeheartmakesher familyhavenoend Itextendsfarpast atypical“family”definitiontoone whichincludessosomany

TosayElaineiswonderfulorfantastic fallssoshortofwhosheis.One cannotpossiblyuseanywordsto describeher,sheisfelt Toknowheris aprivilegehoweversheneverthinksof herselfinthatsense Sheismomma, honey,babe,sis,boss and sometimes Elaine

Again,everythingIhavejustwritten happensbeforeshewalksoutthe door,veryputtogether,classy, Christianandbeautiful,insideandout. Shepresentsalwaysstrongand confidentevenifsheherselfhas worries.

Sheincludedmeinlifewithout hesitationalthoughwhoIamisnot alwaysseenpositivelyinthisworld.

Iknowtherearesomanywonderful mothersinthisworld,however,Elaine Hernandez“MySunshine“isthebest ofthebest IsowishIhadbetter wordstodescribeherbutthosewords donotexist Again,sheisjustfeltin myheartandsoul

MynameisDarioRamonHernandez withoutElaine’slove,wouldstillbea lostsoul!!!!!!

She’smyHarleyQuinn

CHRISTINA MAJOR

DANCING THROUGH LIFE: A JOURNEY FROM MILITARY SERVICE TO SALSA INSTRUCTOR

Upon moving to San Antonio, she seized the opportunity to immerse herself in the local dance scene. Starting with free salsa classes and private lessons, Christina committed herself to mastering the art of Latin dance, refusing to let her previous injuries hold her back.

As her skills progressed, Christina became not only a proficient dancer but also a valued mentor within the community. Transitioning from student to assistant teacher, she now shares her expertise with others, helping them build confidence and find joy through movement. For Christina, dance is more than just a hobby it's a form of self-expression and a means of connecting with others.

FLEXIBILITY, FAMILY, AND FINDING

SUCCESS:

THE JOURNEY OF CASSANDRA GALAN, TAX PROFESSIONAL

In the bustling heart of San Antonio, Texas, lies the story of Cassandra Galan, a determined tax professional and bookkeeper Her journey is not just about entrepreneurship; it’s about carving out a life that aligns with her values, centered around family and flexibility.

A Mother’s Dilemma:

Cast back to the end of 2018, Cassandra found herself at a crossroads. Balancing the demands of a corporate career with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood felt increasingly untenable. Juggling work, commute, and precious few hours with her newborn daughter left her feeling disconnected and unfulfilled

“I got tired of feeling like my family were raising her more than we were,” Cassandra reflects, her voice carrying the weight of that pivotal decision. “I wanted more flexibility, more time to be present for my daughter.”

The Leap into Entrepreneurship

Driven by a desire for autonomy and a longing to create a life of balance, Cassandra took the leap into entrepreneurship. Armed with a vision and a readiness to embrace the unknown, she founded her own tax and bookkeeping business

C A S S A N D R A G A L A N

The timing couldn’t have been better; her virtual business model, established even before the COVID-19 pandemic, proved to be a stroke of prescience.

“When the pandemic hit, it was like a validation of my business model,” Cassandra shares.

“People needed services they could access from the safety of their homes, and I was there to provide just that.”

A Journey to Texas

In 2022, Cassandra and her family made the bold decision to relocate to Texas in pursuit of a better quality of life.

While daunting, the move didn’t disrupt her business operations significantly Her clientele spanned multiple states, a testament to the power of virtual entrepreneurship.

“Moving here was about more than just a change of scenery,” Cassandra explains “It was about pushing myself out of my comfort zone, both personally and professionally.”

Embracing the Community

For an introvert like Cassandra, networking wasn’t second nature. Yet, she recognized its importance in expanding her business and fostering connections Through local events, presentations, and networking groups, she gradually stepped into the spotlight, conquering her fears one interaction at a time.

“The support and camaraderie I found within the local community were invaluable,” Cassandra reflects. “It’s amazing how empowering it is to connect with fellow women entrepreneurs who understand your journey.”

As Cassandra navigates the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, she anchors herself in her ‘why’ – her family. Through the inevitable challenges and uncertainties, it’s her unwavering commitment to her loved ones that fuels her resilience and determination.

“Being a parent and a business owner is a constant balancing act,” Cassandra acknowledges. “But knowing that I’m building a better future for my family keeps me motivated, even on the toughest days.”

Cassandra Galan’s story is one of many tales of triumph and transformation within the entrepreneurial landscape. Her journey serves as an inspiration for those seeking to forge their own path, on their terms, guided by the compass of their dreams and the unwavering support of their loved ones.

Cassandra Galan

MOVES MOVES MOVES1 1 12 2 23 3 3

ALBIEROBLES

AAlbie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.

I’ve always been a performer. I used to act on stage when I was younger. People told me I was great I loved it I also play music Guitar, piano, and harmonica.

I went to film school in Vancouver, learned the basics of production, as well as how to edit film and audio. I moved to Dallas and got a job at the Studios at Las Colinas I would take whatever production jobs came from friends and a couple that I just sort of stumbled upon. I always wanted to buckle down and really start pursuing a career in film, but I kept putting it off. Looking back, I think I was scared of really going for it, only to learn that I really didn’t have it in me. Basically, I wanted success, but I was just waiting for that success to happen to me. I did nothing to push myself forward.

I met my wife on a film set, got married, and before long, time was flying by. I didn’t have a job that could grow into a career. I had kids, and suddenly I found myself too short of time (an excuse), and also too exhausted from work (also an excuse) to pursue any career in a creative field. I turned forty. To me, That was it. I felt that I had let time pass by and that it was officially too late to start any type of career in film or media I had a discussion about it with my wife. I told her I was becoming depressed.

That on top of not having a creative outlet, I was past the point of starting a career in a creative field. I didn’t know how wrong I was, of course. We prayed about it I needed direction Less then two weeks later, I answered the phone at work and the person at the other end said, “Whoah, you should be doing voice work!”

To me, this was like a key turning in a lock It felt right This woke me up from this passive way that I was living, going from job to job, and feeling like a passenger in my own life. I took control. I pursued knowledge about voiceover from every possible source I could find I studied, practiced, and for the first time, I actively pursued the career I wanted, and I did it aggressively.

After a lot of learning, I began recording in the bedroom closet with a mic my dad had given me Then I began to acquire gear. I began to get work. We had a wardrobe we weren’t using much and I converted that into a recording space, which I continued to improve over time until I ended converting a room in our house into a full voiceover studio Finally, I officially went into business, and once I was getting work on a regular basis, I left my job to do voiceover full time.

Has it been a smooth road?

Voiceover is one of those things that is much harder than people realize Until you start doing it, you don’t realize how much there is to learn. Then the more you learn, the more you realize you don’t know yet Also, you work hard and submit a lot of auditions and proposals. Only a few of these get you gigs. A huge percentage of this job is marketing and looking for the work

We’d love to hear more about your work.

I do a lot of different types of voiceover. Audiobooks, explainer videos, corporate training videos, etc My background in stage and improv help me to connect to

what I am doing. I can bring out genuine enthusiasm for whatever the subject matter is. What I love the most, however, and do best is character work. This includes video games, animation, and voiceover for movies Because I have a somewhat deep voice, and because it is the most fun, I am mostly cast as villains. THAT is my favorite thing to do It’s what I feel I do best

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?

I am absolutely impressed by the level of talent and creativity there is here From the film community to the music scene, you can get involved and learn anything you want if you know where to look

I see a lot of litter at times I wish more people would take care of the city. We have a lot of great architecture here. I’d love to see people take more pride in the city.

Soaring High: Jacqueline Castaneda's Aerial

Journey from Texas to the World Stage

JacquelineCastaneda,a23-yearoldnativeofSanAntonio,Texas, has embarked on a remarkable journey that blends passion, perseverance,andtheartistryof aerial performance. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Business ManagementfromtheUniversity of the Incarnate Word, Jacquelinehaschosentopursue her dreams as an aerialist instructor and performer, captivating audiences with her graceandskill.

Jacqueline's love affair with aerial arts began in June 2023 when she first encountered the Lyra, a hoop apparatus that would become her initial muse

As she honed her craft, her journey took flight, leading her to explore the mesmerizing world of silks, a ribbon apparatus, in September of the same year From the moment shewasintroducedtoaerialarts by an acquaintance, Jacqueline wasentranced,herspiritignited bytheexhilaratingfreedom

of flight. Driven by a desire to empower others and effect positive change, Jacqueline madethebolddecisiontoshare her passion by teaching aerial arts to the youth. Believing that nurturing the next generation is essential for building a brighter future, she embarked on a mission to inspire and uplift through her artistry and expertise.

In April 2024, Jacqueline's dedication and talent were put to the test as she competed in herfirstNationalCompetitionat the prestigious Aerialympics. Facingoffagainstaerialistsfrom around the globe, she soared to new heights, earning a thirdplace finish that affirmed her placeamongtheelite.

The Aerialympics not only provided Jacqueline with a platform to showcase her skills but also offered valuable feedback from seasoned judges, fueling her passion and determination to reach even greaterheights.

For Jacqueline, aerial arts transcends mere performance it is a transformative journey thathasenrichedeveryaspectof herlife.Beyondthephysicaland creative outlet it provides, aerial artshasinstilledinherasenseof strength, confidence, discipline, andmentalwell-being.

AERIALARTSISINCLUSIVE, WELCOMINGINDIVIDUALSOF ALLBACKGROUNDS,SHAPES, ANDSIZESTOEXPERIENCETHE EXHILARATIONOFSTEPPING OUTSIDETHEIRCOMFORTZONE.

Throughherartistry,Jacquelinehasconquered fears, shattered perceived limits, and discovered the boundless potential within herself.

More than just a sport, aerial arts is a community adiverseandinclusivespacethat welcomes individuals of all backgrounds, shapes, and sizes to explore the exhilarating thrill of pushing beyond their comfort zones. Jacqueline'sjourneyservesasaninspirationto aspiringaerialistseverywhere,remindingthem that with passion, perseverance, and a willingnesstosoar,anythingispossible.

To catch a glimpse of Jacqueline's aweinspiring aerial journey, including her electrifying performances and competitions, viewers can visit her YouTube channel @Nenatheaerialist or follow her on Instagram @goldenchildsun. As she continues to reach new heights and inspire others along the way, Jacqueline Castaneda is a shining example of thepowerofdreamstakingflight

Meet Dr Marianne Pinkston, an extraordinary beacon of resilience and healing in the field of family and integrative medicine. From a young age, inspired by her grandfather's wisdom in nature and healing, she embarked on a journey marked by determination and passion.

Against the backdrop of numerous setbacks and rejections, Dr. Pinkston pursued her dream of becoming a healer with unwavering resolve. Her educational path led her through Texas Tech University and UTHSCSan Antonio Medical School, where she laid the foundation for her career in medicine. Despite the challenges she faced, including personal health battles like Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cancer, she persevered, driven by a deep commitmenttohercalling.

The essence of Dr. Pinkston's journey lies not only in her personal triumphs but also in her dedication to others. Through her private practice, she has touched the lives of over 40,000 patients, earning their trust through her expertise and compassion. Her approach to medicine is holistic, blending traditional practices with innovative approaches like Functional Medicine, which she embraced to transform her own health and guide others on their healing journeys

Beyond the confines of her clinic, Dr Pinkston is a tireless advocate for education and empowerment. She shares her wealth of knowledge through teaching, radio shows, podcasts, and advocacy work with organizations like the Global Pain Association and the San Antonio Women's Chamber of Commerce. Her mission extends to the pages of magazines and online platforms, where she seeks to inspire and educate a broader audience.

Dr. Pinkston's impact transcends the boundaries of conventional medicine. She specializes in hormone therapy, weight loss, autoimmune illnesses, and more, offering innovative solutions tailored to individual needs. Her commitment to excellence has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as one of the most compassionate doctors and top physicians in her field.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr.Pinkston is at the forefront of cuttingedge treatments, offering weight loss programs, sexual health solutions, and hair regrowth treatments.

Through her dedication and innovation, she continues to transform lives and inspire hope in those she serves.

To learn more about Dr. Pinkston and her transformative approach to healthcare, visit her website at Drpbetterlife.com or contact her practice at Pinkstonfamilypracticesa.com. With her unwavering dedication and pioneering spirit, Dr. Marianne Pinkston embodies the true essence of healing and serves as a beacon of inspiration for all.

MELISSA CAVAZOS

Melissa Cavazos, a proud native of McAllen, TX, nestled In the vibrant Rio Grande Valley, brings over three decades of expertise as a registered pharmacist. Her professional journey Is seasoned with a profound love for her community and its cultural richness.

Beyond the pharmacy counter, Melissa finds joy in the rythms of life. Whether swaying to the soulful melodies of Tejano music, nurturing her garden oasis, or mastering the art of the push button accordion to the tunes of traditional conjunto music, her spirit resonates with the heartbeat of her heritage.

A fervent advocate for the arts, Melissa champions local talent and organizations like the Conjunto Heritage Taller, dedicated to preserving the soul-stirring traditions of conjunto music. San Antonio holds a special place in her heart, a city she adores for its vibrate culture and warmth.

From her early days volunteering in high school to accelerating her academic journey at the age of 17, Melissa’s path has been one of passion and purpose. Yet, amid all her achievements, her greatest pride lies In her two beautiful children, Cougar and Zia, whose endeavors in entertainment and non-profit work illuminate her life with boundless joy and inspiration.

TransformingPaininto Power:A100Pound WeightLossJourneyto HealthandHappiness

Each step, each choice, a testament to the profound capacity we possess to overcome adversity and emerge stronger, healthier, and happier than ever before.

ANGELAM. MORA CONTRIBUTOR

In September of 2022, a wake-up call came in the form of a photograph taken at a convention in Austin. Looking at the image, I was confronted with a stark reality:

I had gained an additional 45 pounds since embarking on my weight loss journey after a break-up and unhealthy choices that took me to a jolting 300 pounds It was a sobering moment, but it also served as a powerful reminder of my determination to change.

With renewed resolve, I reached out to a friend who had expressed interest in

joining me on my journey to better health. The early mornings were tough at first, but as we pushed each other to keep going, I began to see results.

Encouraged by my progress, I decided to take proactive steps to ensure that my weight loss journey would be sustainable in the long term

I consulted with my doctor who suggested certain medications that had shown promising results in helping individuals manage obesity by regulating blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss.

Angela Mora

Intrigued by the possibility of incorporating medication into my weight loss journey, I decided to give it a try Armed with newfound knowledge about nutrition and fitness, I began to carefully monitor my food intake, make healthier choices, and learned about the importance of balancing macronutrients.

I experimented with different fasting techniques to optimize my weight loss efforts. Alongside my workouts, I enlisted the help of personal trainers who provided guidance and support as I worked towards my goals

As the months went by, I continued to see progress The combination of medication, exercise, and dietary changes proved to be effective, and by 2024, I had nearly shed 100 pounds. It was a remarkable achievement, one that filled me with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Not only had I lost weight, but I had also regained control over my health and well-being

Looking back on my transformation, I realized that it was about more than just losing weight. It was about reclaiming my health, my confidence, and my sense of self-worth Gone were the days of feeling winded and embarrassed at sports arenas and concerts. Instead, I found myself embracing life with renewed vigor and enthusiasm, unencumbered by the weight of my past struggles.

Today, I am proud to say that I have not only achieved my weight loss goals but have also cultivated a newfound sense of self-love and acceptance. I no longer hide behind baggy clothes or shy away from social situations. Instead, I embrace each day as an opportunity to live my best life, confident in the knowledge that I am capable of overcoming any obstacle that comes my way

In sharing my story openly and honestly online, I hope to inspire and encourage others who may be struggling with their own health and fitness journey. I want them to know that they are not alone, and that with dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to seek help when needed, anything is possible. My journey is proof that it’s never too late to make change, and that the path to a healthier, happier life begins with taking that first step forward.

JODYWELCHANS

PHARMACIST

"Exploring Patient-Centered Health: Beyond Traditional and Alternative Medicine"

In the practice of pharmacy, there are remedies that come and go, and some that stand the test of time. Some are well studied, and some everyone just knows they work (even if we can’t explain how) Both approaches can provide good and bad outcomes for patients. Which one is better in the end? The one that works for the patient. Sometimes providers forget this simple fact. Naturopaths accuse big pharma of trying to kill people Traditional medicine won’t accept treatment options that have not had adequate peer reviewed studies.

Alternative medicine sees the peer review process as rigged against them. When a provider is more invested in the type of treatment than the patient outcome, no one wins. The truth of the matter is that no one provider, specialty, or practice type has all the answers. Every living being has a unique body chemistry, so every treatment is an experiment with an outcome that can’t be predicted exactly.

A chemical derived from a plant will interact with other molecules the exact same way as a chemical formulated in a lab. Previous studies and new treatment options may not have taken specific patient variables into account At the end of the day the patient is the one that has to live in the body being experimented on. They have the best insight onto how well it is working.

Patients have more options than ever before if they want to take an active role in managing their health So much so that it can become overwhelming. Remember that no one will know all the answers. It’s OK to ask for recommendations from people that have specialized knowledge.

Just remember that it is important to know what to look for if the treatment works AND if it doesn’t work. If the patient and the provider put their best effort into the treatment, the odds of success are good If it doesn’t work, it’s OK to look for another option

Look at pain management as an example. Everyone experiences pain at some point in their life. Scientists have studied it for years. Everyone has a recommendation from their abuela about how to fix it And if it gets bad enough, patients are usually willing to try almost anything to get rid of it. Until the patient makes themselves look at the problem objectively, most treatments will fail.

Take me as an example. After years of standing behind the counter for 12+ hours at a time, I developed significant lower back pain. I could control it with muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatory medications, but it was always there in some form or fashion

And when I would run, I would always use a knee brace because I usually had a dull pain in the knee. One day I misplaced the knee brace (I think my cat drug it under the bed or something) and I still wanted to go for a run My experience after that changed everything about how I approach pain management.

By being patient and persistent, I was able to improve the overall function of the knee.

At first I would only run a mile or two without the brace. I would take a break or walk as soon as I feel pain After a month or so, I was able to run a 5k race without problems, except for minor aches and pains which I would apply lidocaine or diclofenac over the counter. I was still scared to run much longer than that without a brace, but I continued to run As I gained more confidence, I was eventually able to run longer distances, eventually completing a half and even a full marathon without a knee brace.

In hindsight, what I did was strengthen the muscles and connective tissue around the knee. By being patient and persistent, I was able to improve the overall function of the knee. So I tried the same thing for my back. After spending time in the gym focusing on the back muscles, I can confidently say that I don’t feel the back pain every day It’s still there, but noticeably better. This took a lot of work, but it’s definitely rewarding to fell my pain get better, even as I age.

Benefits of Excercise and Medication

I hope my case illustrates that I was able to use medications and exercise to help improve my daily life It also helped me lose weight and look better, but that’s a different case study.

Putting in the work to train for the marathon resulted in quite a few days of sore feet and knees. I was able to put my years of experience in formulating and compounding topical medications to good use. I incorporated lidocaine, diclofenac, and menthol into a cream that kept everything feeling normal. Over time, I also added natural pain-relieving ingredients such as CBD and Arnica to improve the effectiveness without having to increase the dose or frequency of the original formulation. And my vanity kicked in a little, because I really tried to reduce the medicine-y odor so I wouldn’t walk around smelling like an old man Now I can offer it to everyone – not just me I never expected that in a million years

As you can see, every patient’s journey can lead them in unexpected directions Keep your eyes on the road, embrace it, and learn from the experience. At least it will keep things interesting.

A Sweet Tradition LA CONCHA

A Sweet Tradition: The Legacy of The Concha

Picture it: Mexico, centuries ago Spanish conquistadors bring wheat, and bam! Concha sweet bread is born. Legend has it a baker joked, "¡Mira qué conchas tan bonitas!" and the name stuck.

Fast forward, and Conchas are the life of Mexican breakfast tables Families gather for laughs and bites Then, they spread worldwide, carrying humor with them

Today, artisanal bakers get wild, mixing flavors and colors like mad scientists Each bite of Concha is a taste of history Imagine Abuelitas swapping stories over plates of Conchas, their laughter as infectious as the scent of cinnamon and vanilla.!

THEARTOFCULINARYFUSION:

WhereFlavorsCollide

In the heart of San Antonio, Mon Chou Chou Brasserie, located at the Historic Pearl, introduces France to the table Hospitality company Southerleigh Hospitality Group, also has other food concepts such as, Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery located at the Pearl as well, and Southerleigh Haute South located at the Rim

The menu of Mon Chou Chou appraises Chef Laurent Rea’s homeland cuisine. Grandmother inspired, these dishes are diverse each in their own way, giving people a taste of different regions of France The restaurant has an indefatigable sentiment for pallette alluring menus, that change according to season Serge

Gainsbourg playing on the speakers above, dimmed lights, a glass of Pinot Noir, and crème brûlée. Partaking in this decadent dining experience is unforgettable and lovely for gathering with family. Au Revoir!

www.southerleigh.com

S H A N E L L E D Y E R

A tale of a lady ninja who's personally inspired me from a different country Shanelle Dyer She's 21 years young. Her base is Muay Thia and she is lighting up the competition in England. Shanelle Dyer is a fighter whom im excited to follow for the next decade plus

Written BY MMA-is Life

John Noriega

I noticed a lot of the nerds here (stateside) are starting to finally take notice. Real recognize real and for over a year now I've been a fan of then 19 year old natural striker Shanelle Dyer. She has absorbed every aspect of mixed martial arts like it's her destiny " Nervous goes without saying From being comfortable and natural at one sport to trying a brand new, different, and life changing one like BJJ " Brazilian JuJitsu

Training stand up (Muay thai and K1) for about 6 years before. Even trying or eying BJJ sounded impossible as Dyer was to busy having fun racking up more than 100 fights which almost all were wins. Those wins include 27 Titles in World, European and British Championships

Shanelle got into Muay Thai at 9 along with her brothers at Allstars gym. By 10, Winning her first title. "It was the best day of my life so far." Age 12 she won her first international title fight in Turkey. This is when I knew without a doubt martial arts was for me.

Knowing this from the bottom of her soul young Dyer took a three year break as a teen, returning to fight under the Knowlesy academy banner I now fight Thai/K1 professionally

With a million things running through that young mind she went to Team Underground and got lost. Honestly, I was fed up with stand up at the time I took a close loss, and decided to hit up MMA coach Steven Cooke. On her walk over there she found herself bombarding her soul asking a lot of ‘what ifs’

What if I get my arm broken?’ ‘What if I get choked to death?’ ‘What if this is just a waste of time?’

Reassuring herself that she'd just stand up and turn the tables with her Muay Thai. She calmed down a moment and thought out loud one of the silliest thoughts an aspiring MMA fighter could ever have "My striking can and will get me through all of this jujitsu stuff " "The biggest realization that hit me on my walk was: I didn’t have any clue to what ju jitsu was. "

Watching everyone warm up; shooting, sprawling, rolling all looked and felt like stuff from another planet! I had never watched any MMA before so my perception of the sport was sweaty people rolling around hugging each other until one person goes to sleep or gets their arm broken

Even while practicing Coach Cooke would shout out ‘get closer hold tighter" In my head however all I could think about was how sweaty the opposition was Plus im not much of a hugger Especially hugging strangers

This was something new, different and way out of my element at the time. Still I went back. Everyone in the class was just amazing. Really patient and informative when it came to doing something or asking to repeat anything. The variety of levels in the class left a strong impact on me "Would you look at all these people striving to get better and evolve at this?"

I saw people better than me, The restless white belts hungering to get better with each session Those who I needed to get as good as. To the top of the food chain folks I just had to beat. A strong impact felt indeed.

How I wished BJJ was as easy as just grabbing an arm and having em tapping. BJJ is a puzzle that never fully gets finished There's the momentum, body weight, leverage, fakes and combinations that take years and years to master

So dang, there went that master plan of just standing up and beating them with my Muay Thai The daily frustration of being tapped out in what felt like a million times was growing It was such a humbling feeling i felt totally downgraded and vulnerable I must admit i hated it. That feeling of being weak and helpless. Something needed to change. This change would not come easy but hey I love learning. One of the more difficult things through this journey i was taking on was taking it solo. I didn’t tell anyone I was going to the BJJ class initially Not even my dad until a few weeks after Like many who don't fully understand mixed martial arts he wasn’t a fan of the sport Mainly the limb breaking part Whether he could see it in my eyes or hear it in my tone im still not quite sure to this day. All i know is he was now on board and supportive with my new found journey. "My first MMA fight four months later on 5 days notice is when i would first allow to admit this to myself. "Hey I could really do this. I could fight MMA?" Everything was just starting to sync in my brain I started to fall even deeper in love with the sport, submitting guys that were literally double my weight and size The sport became less alien to me.

Now that all the things i was being taught were starting to sync in. For fun i enjoy watching YouTube videos and starting to master the more flashy fancy moves Allowing myself to just have fun with it and it's been a blast I look forward to seeing where my new found love takes me I even get that same feeling my first love Muay Thai gave to me....

MMA-IS-LIFE.

It's now 2023 and Shanelle Dyer now known as The Nightmare has competed and represented Team London on many occasions winning medals While being an absolute nightmare in the amateur scene Shanelle Dyer just made the move having her first professional fight March 11th 2023 Winning by spinning back fist KO in the 1st round. She had her very next fight 4/22/23 a little over a month later

and exactly one day before turning 22. I hope somebody found inspiration in this ninja tale on my Facebook buddy Shanelle who's whooping ass in the U.K. I'm salivating at the day when i could watch this young lady perform live being an absolute nightmare to the lady ninjas in the states Proud to be the first if not one of the first (the first) to start telling the story of UK's prospect Shanelle The Nightmare Dyer here in the states.

King Ryan “The Jester” Garcia

Well boxing fans, we have all been fooled I will be the first to admit that Ryan Garcia pulled a brave stunt in front of all our faces I guess he figured that fooling everyone that he was cray was much easier than trying to convince everyone that he was of sound mind and fully recovered from the last two bouts including Gervonta “tank” Davis and ready to fight Devin Haney for the WBC super lightweight title last weekend.

Many of us expressed concern, including myself, earlier during the last two months when he began to rant about serious allegations, showed erratic behavior and what appeared to be excessive drinking and drug use. I clearly recall me stating then “I hope he gets medical attention regarding his mental status if he is really suffering mental issues”. His many allegations went straight out of a Hollywood studio and seems as if though he was all in. You must give the man credit he has a very creative mind when it comes to trolling the Internet.

THAT'S A MATCH

Garcia claims that it was all planned out weeks and even months prior to the fight he claims he had it all documented he doesn’t know what made him come up with the idea.

One day he just decided just to go all in and just commit to the plan that he had and that he was not going to budge for anybody He was quoted as saying “we had it prerecorded with my cameraman months ago I said I’m about to make sure everybody thinks I’m going to go crazy I have it all documented I was planning it months ago. I don’t know what made me come up with the idea, I just decided to go all in and commit to the plan that I had. People, that’s on them, they underestimated me because of social media. You can make anything look a certain way on social media. They fool themselves,” said Ryan Garcia.

Well Needless to say it was a well-planned out plan and perfectly executed Like I mentioned previously I was fooled by his antics, And I know I’m not alone. If you live under a rock and did not watch the fight. You missed a good one. Ryan Garcia dropped Haney three times before claiming the majority decision victory. He has now gone 2-0 since him suffering his first pro loss by a body shot from Gervonte “Tank” Davis in 2023. The only flaw in Garcia’s plan was making weight. Garcia is in the period in his life where he can no longer make 140 lbs. He walks around well over 140 lbs. and knew that if he even tried to make 140 lbs., he would not be able to be at full speed and power the day of the fight This is why he purposely came in 3 lbs overweight

He struggled over the fact that if he was overweight chances where he was either going to have the fight cancelled, have to pay a fine, or not be eligible to win the world championship title if he were to be the winner of the fight. So, what is next for Ryan Garcia? Well, he has plenty of options,

I honestly think he’s moving up in weight to 147. He would try to capture the world title at that weight. The only problem is the champ at that weight class is one of the top pound for pound boxers in the world Terrence “bud” Crawford He will either fight Stanionis, Barrios, or Ennis Another possibility is to get a rematch with Gervona “Tank” Davis, but I honestly don’t think that will happen unless it is at a catch weight of 143lbs145lbs. I also don’t think he will give a rematch too Devin Haney being that was such a decisive victory over him.

FERNANDO MORA, MBA JOURNALIST 2TEN SPORTS

Avaya was selected to serve on the leadership council at Robert G. Cole Middle School

She is an all around athlete that participates in volleyball, basketball and track

AVAYA BRUNDIDGE

SPORT: Volleyball, Basketball, Track

AAU Basketball: Lady Hoops Sky Blue

Favorite Food: 10 piece chicken nugget meat at McD

Favorite Color: Pink

Favorite Movie: Home

Hero: My Mom, she’s an active duty soldier In the Army.

Avaya was the leading scorer on her Robert G. Cole Middle school team averaging 25 points per game resulting in an undefeated season and District Championship She continues to play AAU basketball year round as a starting player for Lady Hoops Sky Blue, where she excels as a well rounded player bringing positive team play to the court. Avaya has received an invitation to showcase her talent at the Phenom National Camp in Orange County California this summer, giving her a platform to take her talents to the next level.

Avaya has aspirations to play woman’s college basketball for a program such as LSU or Baylor, as well as making it in the WNBA

The Dallas Cowboys: A Legacy of America's Team

Since their inception in 1960, the Dallas Cowboys have been more than just a football team; they've become an institution, a symbol of American sports excellence, and a beacon of resilience. With a storied history that spans over six decades, the Cowboys have left an indelible mark on the National Football League (NFL) and the hearts of millions of fans worldwide. The Cowboys were born out of the vision of Clint Murchison Jr. and Tex Schramm, who believed that Dallas deserved its own NFL franchise. In 1960, the team took to the field for the first time, clad in distinctive blue and silver uniforms, under the guidance of head coach Tom Landry. Despite early struggles, Landry's innovative coaching methods and the acquisition of talent like Roger Staubach, Bob Lilly, and Tony Dorsett laid the foundation for greatness The 1970s saw the Cowboys ascend to the summit of the NFL. With the iconic "Doomsday Defense" and a high-powered offense led by Staubach, the team clinched two Super Bowl titles (VI, XII) and made five appearances in the big game during the decade. The "Hail Mary" pass, the "Doomsday Defense," and the iconic star-studded helmets became synonymous with the Cowboys' brand of football. In the 1980s, the Cowboys solidified their status as "America's Team." Despite on-field struggles, their popularity soared, thanks in part to their groundbreaking presence on television through NFL Films and appearances on primetime games. The emergence of stars like Emmitt Smith, Troy Aikman, and Michael Irvin in the 1990s reignited the Cowboys' winning ways, leading to three Super Bowl victories (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX) in four years under head coach Jimmy Johnson and owner Jerry Jones.

The new millennium brought both triumphs and trials for the Cowboys. Despite flashes of brilliance, including playoff runs and division titles, the team faced challenges on and off the field. Coaching changes, roster turnovers, and high expectations often led to unfulfilled promises. However, the unwavering support of the fans and the resilience ingrained in the Cowboys' DNA kept hope alive In recent years, the Cowboys have focused on building a team for sustained success. Led by quarterback Dak Prescott, running back Ezekiel Elliott, and a talented young core, the team aims to recapture past glory while forging a new legacy. Under the guidance of head coach Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys seek to blend tradition with innovation, utilizing modern strategies to complement their rich history. Off the field, the Dallas Cowboys are more than just a football team. Their iconic stadium, AT&T Stadium, stands as a testament to the franchise's grandeur, hosting not only NFL games but also concerts, conventions, and other major events. The Cowboys' brand transcends borders, with a global fan base and a presence in popular culture that extends far beyond the realm of sports As the Dallas Cowboys march forward into the future, their legacy remains firmly entrenched in the annals of NFL history. From humble beginnings to Super Bowl glory, from adversity to resilience, the Cowboys embody the spirit of America's Team. Whether they're hoisting championship trophies or navigating rough seas, one thing is certain: the star will always shine bright over Dallas.