December 2023 Inspiration 4 Life Magazine by Inspiration 4 Life

inspiration4life.org

December 2023

INSPIRATION 4 LIFE MAGAZINE

GET INSPIRED! BE INSPIRED! STAY INSPIRED!

#AllOverSA #AllOverTX #AllOverTheWorld

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Contents 3

ROTARY ICE RINK Travis Park (Photo Credit: Rotary Club of SA)

ANA BANDA Cincinnati, Ohio

UNIVISION La Posada Festival

ANGIE VIVIAN Puro Texas Charm

TRISTAN RAMIRES Heart Chakra Healing

BACKYARD ON BROADWAY Lobster Day

TEXAS RED WOLVES ABA 2023-2024 Season Schedule

Stay tuned for more great Issues of Inspiration 4 Life Magazine. We will cover more amazing topics such as Ministries, Leadership, Communities, Local Heroes, Fitness, Beauty, Fashion, Sports, Events, Art, Gala's, Markets and so much more! Trademark and Copyright Laws Protect Inspiration 4 Life Magazine. No part of this Magazine may be reproduced without permission. Articles are submitted by Team Writers and images by Advertisers. Inspiration 4 Life Magazine is not responsible for Content submitted. Copyright 2023

Editor's Note CEO/Radio/TV/Web Host & Personality

Hello everyone! I want to thank everyone for being a part of our Journey and our Online Digital Magazine. Our Magazine is simply here to inspire you and help be a Voice for everyone! We love to share your stories with the world. This is another wonderful Platform we have put together for you to enjoy. We are here to help encourage those who love to write but don't know where to start, have hidden talents as writers, editors, photographers, graphic designers and so much more, to be a part of our Magazine. We want to inspire you to embrace new talented writers as some will be sharing their stories for the first time. We also have experienced, amazing writers from around the world. Here at Inspiration 4 Life, we are a judge free zone and love to give others the opportunities to also live their dreams and passions. We have been trying to make this dream come true since 2010 but with so many obstacles that stood in the way, we managed to break barriers and still made our dream come true. We inspire you to never give up on your Dreams! In this Magazine, you will read about some of our amazing Inspiration 4 Life Team, our Members, Partners, Sponsors, Advertisers and more. Inspiration 4 Life has covered the Eastside, Westside, Southside, Northside, surrounding areas and also around the world. There are no boundaries of the location and type of inspiration we will cover in our Magazine. We have covered it all after all these years. We have so many amazing people in our Communities of San Antonio, therefore we will always have stories for you. Inspiration 4 Life will always be thankful for our Local Heroes Segment on KENS 5 Great Day SA, Sunday Morning Show from 2011-2015. If you would like to be a part of our Magazine or have any questions, you can visit www.inspiration4life.org/Contact

Rita Hernandez Editor-in-Chief

Get Inspired! Be Inspired! Stay Inspired!

ROTARY ICE RINK AT TRAVIS PARK Welczme ¶z ¶he Czzle¨¶ Place io Tz×o Admission Pricing General Admission – $15+taxes Cheap Skate Nights – $7+taxes (Tuesdays Only) Valero Sponsor – $7+taxes Military

and

First

Responders

–

$10+taxes

(Mondays Only) FOR TICKETS CLICK HERE Location 301 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205

NOVEMBER 17, 2023 – JANUARY 15, 2024 The Rotary Ice Rink presented by Valero will return this fall at Travis Park in downtown San Antonio. Since 2019, nearly 200,000 people have enjoyed the rink and surrounding festivities. The Rink will open the Friday before Thanksgiving and will operate daily through mid-January 2024. #RotaryIceRink For the safety and convenience of all guests, a limited number of visitors will be admitted to the ice rink every 30 minutes. All visits must be reserved in advance by purchasing a timed ticket(s) online. All visitors will receive a confirmation email with a safety waiver and a receipt. Entry is not guaranteed to those who walk up to purchase tickets. Those who attempt the “walk-up” purchase of tickets in person, will be shown a QR code to purchase tickets on their smartphones; if the present time is fully booked, the guest will be shown other available times to skate. If you have any questions or need to change your reservations email travispark@icerinkevents.com

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Operating Hours Monday – Thursday: 5-10pm Friday: 5-11pm Saturday & all School Holidays*: 11am-11pm Sunday: 12 pm-8pm Thanksgiving Day: 11 am-11pm Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve: 11am-7pm Christmas Day & New Year’s Day: 1-7pm Martin Luther King Day (Jan. 15): 11am-10pm School Holidays: Nov 20-24, Dec 18-29, Jan 1-5 & 15 (MLK) How To Make A Reservation, and Buy A Ticket 1. Click the link above and select the date and time you wish to skate. 2. After completing payment, a receipt will be emailed and a separate email will include a link to complete the waiver(s). 3. Check your inbox for E-tickets. NOTE: You will not receive your E-ticket(s) until you have completed the waiver(s). For all issues related

ticketing,

support@icerinkevents.com

please

contact

Military Appreciation Night

Mondays

Military & First Responders Night

All active-duty military and first responders

All

skate

responders skate for free from 5-10pm.

for

free

from

5-10pm.

off

admission for dependents

active-duty

military

and

$5 off admission for dependents

Ska¶iog ×i¶h ¶he S¶a ¨ S¾odaÝ¨ Hea ¶ zf TeÜa¨ Fig¾ e Ska¶iog Cl¾b ×ill e fz m zo ëlec¶ S¾odaÝ¨ d¾ iog iok ëa¨zo. Make lao¨ ¶z a¶¶eod a e fz maoce! ( leaë oz¶e: ¶he iok ×ill z eo a¶ 1:00 ¶z ¶he geoe al ¾blic) Pe fz maoce Da¶e¨: S¾odaÝ, Decembe 3 d 11:30 – 12:30 S¾odaÝ, Decembe 17¶h 11:30 -12:30 S¾odaÝ, Jao¾a Ý 14¶h 11:30 – 12:30

first

Downtown San Antonio will come alive this season with the launch of what will no doubt become a time-honored holiday tradition for residents and visitors. Set against the backdrop of one of the city’s most historic and charming promenades in San Antonio Holidays on Houston Street launches November 24, and runs through January 2. More than five blocks of Houston Street (from Legacy Park all the way to the Alamo) will glisten with twinkling lights and oversized décor elements, bustle with entertainers and themed offerings from restaurants, shops, and partners along the way. Upcoming activities that promise even more excitement will be announced, including a weekend market Dec 15-17 at the Alamo where guests will feel as if they’ve stepped into a charming European Christkindlmarket. The nostalgia of San Antonio holidays will unfold under the soft glow of Houston Street lampposts, recalling memories of Christmas’ past, and inspiring the making of new holiday memories for all. 5

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December Awareness *Rosa Parks Bus Seat Refusal Anniversary - December 1 *World AIDS Day - December 1 *Giving Tuesday - 1st Tuesday after Thanksgiving *International Day of Persons with Disabilities - December 3 *Wildlife Conservation Day - December 4 *International Cheetah Day - December 4 *International Volunteer Day - December 5 *World Soil Day - December 5 *Pansexual/Panromantic Pride Day - December 8 *National Llama Day - December 9 *Human Rights Day - December 10 *Nobel Prize Day - December 10 *International Animal Rights Day - December 10 *International Mountain Day - December 11 *Monkey Day - December 14 *Bill of Rights Day - December 15 *International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers - December 17 *International Migrants Day - December 18 International Day of Epidemic *Preparedness - December 27 *Visit the Zoo Day - December 27 *New Year’s Eve - December 31

CINCINNATI, OHIO BY ANA BANDA Home of the first Major League Baseball team in America, the Cincinnati Reds and home to the NFL team, the Cincinnati Bengals. Cincinnati is also known as The Queen City. Did you know that the state of Ohio is the only state with a pennant shaped state flag vs a rectangular shape? I was fortunate to visit the city of Cincinnati in the fall of 2020. Considering the closures and the major changes that year, I was grateful to explore the city. Cincinnati is in the state of Ohio which is located in the center of 5 neighboring states. Ohio is bordered by Pennsylvania and West Virginia to the east, Kentucky and West Virginia to the south, Michigan and Lake Erie to the north, and Indiana to the west. In the fall of 2020, I was on a road-trip driving in to Ohio from Kentucky, which is located on the southern border of Ohio.

Visiting Cincinnati in the fall offered sunny weather with cool

temperatures. I wore a light jacket and a beanie while there. One of my favorite things to do when traveling is talking to locals. It is always exciting to ask locals about their love for their town and any food or entertainment that they may recommend. Upon arrival to Cincinnati, I asked the locals what is a must try food in this town. I was enthusiastically encouraged to try their famous chili. I am a Texas girl, so I am only familiar with our chili con carne recipe, a side of crackers or a side of corn bread. I was surprised to learn that Cincinnati’s chili is not anything like our Texas recipe. In fact, their chili recipe was founded by a Greek immigrant who brought his Mediterranean flare to Cincinnati! Cincinnati is actually known for their chili! The recipe includes a plate of spaghetti topped with a sauce. That sauce resembles a coney sauce that you would top your hotdog with. The spaghetti and sauce is then topped with shredded cheddar cheese and is served with a side of oyster crackers. I drove to the nearby Skyline Chili restaurant as encouraged by the locals. I ordered the Cincinnati chili and sat down to enjoy it. You may be a bit skeptical to try it as I was, but it was well worth it! I took my first bite and I was sold! It was delicious! I personally tasted a hint of cloves in the sauce and I enjoyed every last bite! This chili was so delicious to me, that before I left Cincinnati, I opted for one last stop to enjoy my last meal in Cincinnati, a plate of their famous chili!I personally only tried this restaurant chain but I recommend it! It was definitely a must try food option while in Cincinnati, so delicious! I was told Cincinnati boasts great barbecue, but I personally did not have the opportunity to try it during

my stay.

As I continued exploring Cincinnati, I made my way over to see the downtown area. As a major league baseball fan, I was excited to walk over to the REDS baseball stadium. It is called the Great American Ball Park. Did you know that the Cincinnati Reds (formally known as the Cincinnati Red Stockings-1869) was the first Major League Baseball team in this great nation? It was definitely a sight to see! The stadium is in walking distance from the Ohio River and the John A Roebling bridge. I learned that the John A Roebling bridge located over the Ohio River connects Ohio to Kentucky. This bridge was in fact the inspiration for the famous landmark in New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge! It is a bittersweet story in fact. John A Roebling was a civil engineer who

designed

and

built

wire

rope

suspension bridges, including this bridge in Cincinnati. John A Roebling designed the Brooklyn Bridge in New York but died before its completion. The Brooklyn Bridge was completed by John A Roebling’s son and his daughter in law, who completed the project. I learned that Cincinnati is known for its craft beers. I proceeded to sample some of Cincinnati’s beers. I was told that beer is to Cincinnati as bourbon is to Kentucky. I walked over to a nearby brewery and enjoyed a couple of IPAs or Indian Pale Ales. After enjoying some craft beers, I decided to walk over to enjoy the late afternoon views by the Ohio River. I paused and took in the beauty of the Ohio River and the John A Roebling bridge and the history there. I enjoyed people watching. I took in the beauty of the river and the bridge and smiled as I watched the pedestrians and cyclists also enjoying the afternoon.

Shortly

after

this

relaxing

moment, I proceeded to walk over to see the stadium where the NFL team, the Bengals play. This stadium is called Paycor Stadium, previously known as Paul Brown Stadium. I walked around the stadium and took

some

exploring Cincinnati.

pictures.

the

beauty

really and

enjoyed

history

I sat down and spoke to a Cincinnati born veteran. He shared that he was born and raised in Cincinnati before he left to the military. I was curious to know his experience growing up in Cincinnati in the 70’s. He mentioned that the town at the time had predominantly citizens of German and Jewish descent. He recalls celebrating Hanukah in his elementary school! It was no surprise to learn that Cincinnati is the home to the first Jewish hospital which opened in 1850. I am intrigued with the different times and cultures and to learn from other’s experiences. I personally grew up in San Antonio in the 80’s and early 90s in a predominately Hispanic community. I can share that cumbias, a type of Latin American music was played at our high school dances! I recall our pep rally song was to the tune of the Mexican song Jalisco! I find it satisfying to learn about our different cultures and match up the times in history! This gentleman proceeded to share about what the importance of the Ohio river is to him and his family. Growing up in this city, the Ohio river is what separated the north from the south. Being of African American descent, he explained that the Ohio river has a very symbolic significance, as it divided slavery from freedom. So many interesting facts about our nation right here in this great

city!

I Cincinnati has something for everyone. Nature walks, the Cincinnati Zoo, the botanical gardens, professional sports, museums, festivals to name a few. It was the year of 2020 when I had to opportunity to visit. I would be interested to visit Cincinnati in the Spring and catch a baseball game! I would love to enjoy more sights and museums and definitely go back for that Cincinnati chili! Here is fun fact about Cincinnati: Jerry Springer, who most remember as a Television show host, served as mayor of Cincinnati in 1977! From Cincinnati, my next stop was Indianapolis, Indiana. This drive is about 112 miles and it took about two hours to arrive. Traveling tip from a Texan: If you are ever in the Cincinnati area and have some time, get in your car or a rental car and take advantage of the short distances to the neighboring states. As a Texan, visiting neighboring states in central Texas is not that feasible for day trips! Until next time! Stay tuned for my next adventures and experiences from my travel journey! My goal of visiting all of America is almost complete! Follow me on FB – Ana Banda and on Instagram: The Ana Banda

13 13

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Christmas ~ Anon Every time a hand reaches out To help another....that is Christmas Every time someone puts anger aside And strives for understanding That is Christmas Every time people forget their differences And realize their love for each other That is Christmas May this Christmas bring us Closer to the spirit of human understanding Closer to the blessing of peace! 47

BLESSINGS FOR 2024 By Rita Hernandez

I love that I get to play a huge part in many lives, to send the message of a simple thank you or a heartfelt story of hope through my Inspiration 4 Life International Internet Radio/TV/Web Network. I love capturing moments through Radio Interviews, Shows, Video Productions, Photos, telling one’s story through an Article or TV Segment. It’s an honor to help be a Voice to get one’s message out and be heard. Inspiration 4 Life is thankful to all of you and helping us be successful in sharing your message. Let’s finish this Christmas Holiday Season with a giving heart and bring in the New Year with great, inspiring stories to be told. Sharing your story in humbleness from your heart, are the best stories to be told. Who or what are you thankful for? We are ready to hear from you! Thank you once again, to all those who have been reading our Articles. Special thank you to Jaime Vidal with Street Talk Magazine for believing in us and allowing us to bring inspiring people and events to your Magazine, as well. I want to give a special and warm thank you to my Mom, Maria Escobedo, , my brothers Robert and Rudy Ramos, entire family, all of my wonderful friends, business partners, sponsors and all of my family. I am thankful for every single one of you. My heart, love and many thanks goes especially to my Husband Blas Hernandez, my two beautiful daughters, Amanda Cantu and Jasmine Hernandez and my handsome son, Angel Julian Hernandez. Without their love and support, I wouldn’t be able to do all the things I love. Nothing would be possible without the never-ending love from my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I am forever grateful. Check out our flyer, on the back Cover, for our upcoming

As 2023 is coming to an end and we prepare for

Toy Drive and Celebrity Meet & Greet Event on

2024, you must never forget to give thanks to all those

Wednesday December 14, 2023 at Mi Familia at the RIM!!!

who have been there for you. Especially those who

It is absolutely free and everyone is invited to come and

have shown love and support towards your Cause,

Celebrate with us. We just ask you to please bring an

Business, Non Profit or whatever your Passion is.

unwrapped toy for our Annual Toy Drive. We have so many

Sometimes it is hard to express gratitude or we get

surprises in store for you!

too caught up in life to where we forget, but we must make the time for these precious moments. A simple thank you goes a very long way. Inspiration 4 Life is on the lookout for people like you! We are always ready to Interview those with a Heart of Gold, inspiring people and Events for great Causes.

I leave you with these last encouraging words. Be thankful and give thanks. I wish you all a very safe and Merry Christmas and can’t wait to share some wonderful new stories for the New Year in 2024!

Follow along my journey and you will get to witness some inspiring people, places, and businesses. As Owner

Media

Broadcasting

Company,

International Internet Radio Station, Editor-in-Chief of three Magazines, I love covering stories and writing about amazing people, local heroes, my fascination with life, SA culture, adventures, my family, living a healthy organized life, great food and so much more! You have a topic; I will cover it. I have been inspiring and connecting leaders, businesses, and entrepreneurs on my media platforms to help be their voice and for them to be heard, going on 13 years in media and community outreach for 17 years. Be significant and know your worth to be the successful YOU are meant to be!” ~Rita Hernandez To read my Full Bio, please visit www.inspiration4life.org/rita On this note, I am excited to share inspiring stories from amazing people, places, events and more, with you all! It is truly an honor to be back writing for Street

Talk

Magazine

since

2015.

For

information about me or Inspiration 4 Life, you can email me at rita@inspiration4life.org or visit my website at www.inspiration4life.org, FB: www.facebook.com/inspiration4lifeworldwide IG: www.instagram.com/inspiration4lifeworldwide FB: www.facebook.com/liveonairwithrita IG: www.instagram.com/ritamariehernandez