La Revista Binacional: San Diego Fall 2023

CELEBRATING A LIVING LEGEND

MRS. CARMEN MARTINEZ REACHES 100 YEARS

PAGES 56 - 57

Nearshoring in Mexico

Why is it attractive? PAGE 72

Page 56

Celebrating a Living Legend

25th Anniversary of Qué Buena

Innovations

Native American

Page 72

The story behind a song

Valle de Guadalupe in one day

LRB Interviews Cynthia Gonzalez

Theater

Quality time with your pet

Building a greener future: How to become a more sustainable business

Unidos US: The power of us

Celebrating a Living Legend: San Ysidro

Health’s Founding Mother, Mrs. Carmen Martinez reaches 100 years.

Accidental Survivor

3 times a survivor! This is my story

La Zarzuela U.S.A.

Thanksgiving Recipes

Why should you become a real estate agent?

Reverse Mortgage

Shelter Program in Mexico

Nearshoring Today

Maria Adriana Gutierrez-Sosa

La Catrina Andante

Remembering the dead with a do-it-yourself

shrine

Legends of Terror: Spine-Chilling stories from Mexico

AI: Among us in the entertainment industry

Are influencers taking over Hollywood?

The boom of foreign novelas and their consumption by Latina moms

¡Viva la tortilla, viva México!

Alleviate stress at work

Movember: No Shave November

Break-through Weight Loss Medications

Can Have Heart Benefits But Only If Used Correctly

Dr. Mark Sanchez: A leader in education

NFL season is back!

The art of failure: learning from setbacks

Is homeschooling a good idea?

Cómo sonreírle a la vida

Live & Wear: Autumn-Winter edition

Heart & Wellness Center takes care of your heart

Productive Remittances

The return of Pop Punk

The Horse Dentist

Five reasons why you need a living trust

Page 97

Cómo sonreírle a la vida

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C h u l a V i s t a

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My Poor Dear Autumn

Autumn has been my favorite season ever since I can remember.

I love it, although psychologists say that autumn is a melancholic season of ‘loss and preparation’ for the coming blow (in this case, winter). I like its climate, freshness, and transition from warm weather to cool nights. In some parts, the trees change their colors from green to ocher, orange, brown and yellow. Even here in southern California, there are parts that give us that wonder of colors.

There are fresh mornings without being too cold. The pumpkins, the smell of cinnamon and spices. The light winds and the inevitable fall of all vegetation.

I really like this season.

I still don’t understand what magic it has, but it surrounds me, and I like it a lot. I sometimes think it is those gigantic moons that illuminate the less hot nights. It is that clarity of the sky that announces that winter is going to be strong and cold.

Days become shorter where. At 5 pm, it is already dark, and you want to put on your pajamas.

There is nothing better than enjoying pumpkin pies and baking more often.

It is also very exciting to take out winter clothes and put away your summer clothes. It’s checking the condition of your boots and coats (and finding money in the pockets).

It is the Halloween costumes and the celebration of the Day of the Dead traditions.

It is also that silence in your house because no air conditioner is on. Neither fans nor heaters nor refrigerated air. NOTHING. It is plain silence, as well as autumn.

It is a season to relax at ease.

And very importantly, it’s a time to be grateful for many things before that holiday season rush that accelerates us so much!

That’s why I don’t like it when I start to see Christmas things already put up in the stores, houses, and holiday songs as early as midOctober.

I don’t want to criticize that too much because I don’t want to hurt people who put up their holiday decorations in October.

Don’t get me wrong. I am one of the people who loves the Christmas season the most, its ornaments, its gifts, the parties, meals, reunions, the family, etc.

I love everything related to Christmas and all the December festivities.

I’m not a GRINCH, but I like to start celebrating it until the end of November, after THANKSGIVING.

It is the usual tradition; passing Thanksgiving and Christmas follows!

I don’t understand why things go so far forward.

Life goes by so fast! We need to slow it down.

Going down the street and seeing how Christmas is already everywhere gives me the feeling that we are skipping the Fall months!

We are not enjoying each week as it should be. And do you know what?

I am going to continue enjoying these months of my dear and poor autumn, slowly buying the decorations that I will put up in December.

I am going to enjoy looking for the best PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE, and I will continue to enjoy this Fall season that everyone wants to make shorter every time!

Let’s save Autumn.

GINA DEWAR

La Revista Binacional

Photo by Jason Leem.

Compra local, ¡Nos ayuda a todos!

Cuando sales con la familia a darte un paseo o comer algo, es importante recordar ¿dónde comprar? o mucho mejor ¿cómo apoyar tu comunidad? Cuando compras local, estás apoyando a una familia, a una madre, a un padre, sus hijos y el empleo que generan.

De acuerdo con el San Diego Hispanic Chamber of Commerce en el condado (website, 2023):

• Más de 50 mil personas son empleadas por negocios Latinos

• Más de 4 mil millones de dólares son generados en ventas anuales por negocios latinos

• Más de mil millones de dólares es generado por pago de salarios a empleados por negocios latinos

Apoyar el comercio local significa muchas cosas como calidad, buen servicio y sostenibilidad. Igualmente, apoyar local también ayuda a cuidar el medio ambiente, pues se minimizan los

trayectos y envíos que deben realizar los productos hasta llegar a las manos de los clientes. Por último, el comercio local, la sociedad y la economía de los barrios no solo se mantiene activa, sino que se magnifica.

Aquí les dejo unos consejos de como apoyar la economía local:

• Trata de usar siempre los negocios locales

• Reacciona a sus redes sociales, comenta y comparte

• Recomienda estos negocios a tus familiares y amigos

• Deja una propina justa

• Si compras en línea, invierte en los sitios web de los negocios locales

Hay muchos sitios web y aplicaciones que te ayudan a encontrar negocios locales en tu área (Les recomiendo la aplicación My Premium Perksdisponible en Mypoint Credit Union), inclusive con descuentos. Imagínense si

todos hacemos un esfuerzo de comprar local, vamos a crear un impacto muy positivo en nuestra sociedad y economía.

En MyPoint Credit Union, siempre “Celebramos Nuestra Comunidad de Pequeños Negocios”. Estoy muy agradecida de trabajar para MyPoint donde nuestra prioridad es apoyar y conectar a nuestros pequeños negocios. Además, les ofrecemos recursos y herramientas óptimas - ¡Juntos avanzamos! Para concluir, somos muy locales con más de 75 años en el condado de San Diego.

For advertising inquiries, contact info@larevistabinacional.com

larbmedia.com

CEO & Co-Founder

Carlos “Flo” Flores

Director & Co-Founder

Rafael García

Editor-In-Chief & Co-Founder

Gina Dewar

Operations Manager

Lucía Delgado

Marketing & Graphic Design

Michelle Gómez

Marketing & Photography

Andrea Morales

Derrick Ramos Marketing

Web Developer

Miguel Palomares

Special thanks to our article contributors for Fall 2023.

– Alexandra Uro

– Andreína Longoria

– Arnulfo Manríquez

–

Damián Angulo

– Dr. Hassan Kafri

– Dra. Michele Dewar

– Frank Bütts, Esq

– Laura Mejorado

– Liliana Escalante

Customer Service: 345 15th St. San Diego CA 92101, USA.

Paseo de los Héroes 10289-7012 Zona Urbana Río Tijuana 22010, Tijuana, B.C., México

– Lic. Carlos “Payta” Sánchez

– Lic. Laura Tristán

– Marisa Barrio

– Martha Gomez

– Mauricio Uro

– Nicolas Andreu

– Psic. Ambar G. Picasso

– Sara Garibay

– Silvia Ortiz

DISCLAIMER: Rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or means, electronically or manually, without written permission from La Revista Binacional. Commercial ads are the responsibility of each client per their own agreements within their companies. La Revista Binacional is not viable for any inaccuracy or infringement.

Photography: Andrea Morales

The interesting history behind Black Friday

On the roads of the United States, it took a lot of work for the police to control the heavy influx of traffic. It was a day right after Thanksgiving Day. So, they called it Black Friday as they had to do more to control the crowd.

It’s important to note that Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the last Thursday of November each year. People travel to big cities to buy gifts for friends and relatives. Hence, massive traffic is seen on roads, and Philadelphia Police had to do more to control the crowd. So, they called it Black Friday. The term has gained immense popularity, and today it’s recognized as a global shopping event. Let’s gain an understanding of when & how Black Friday went global.

National phenomenon

In 1990, retailers in the United States started to offer discounts on Black Friday. They provided significant discounts to attract buyers and sell inventory before Christmas arrival. Hence, they used Black

Friday to clear the stock and made it the biggest shopping event in the nation. It was the time when American sellers started associating Black Friday positively.

Global expansion of Black Friday

The idea of Black Friday was strong enough to attract overseas retailers. So, retailers in the UK, Canada, and Australia started to import traditional shopping days from the US and offered significant discounts to customers.

Although Black Friday is a global event, there are some concerns about its consumerist nature as, on this day; people tend to buy things they might not even need.

Today, black Friday is not celebrated for a day only. To satisfy consumer demand, stores open on the evening of Thanksgiving Day, and people continue discounted shopping till the end of Friday & some stores even extend the time.

Shopping trends on Black Friday

The US stands first in the queue, with the average American spending $485 on Black Friday. Average Canadian expenditure of $430 makes it second, and $397 spending by British citizens makes them 3rd biggest nation to celebrate Black Friday. With the rise of e-commerce around the globe, the shopping trend changed from in-store shopping to online. Cyber Monday is celebrated right after Thanksgiving day to satisfy consumer demands in this sector when online stores/retailers offer significant discounts to buyers. An idea of Cyber Monday is the same as Black Friday. However, it’s directed to satisfy consumer demand in the online shopping industry.

Wrap up

Black Friday is considered an integral part of Thanksgiving Day. Shopping malls and stores offer significant discounts to customers buying products.

MEET

EDGAR HERRERA

IN N OUT RESTORATIONS

Edgar Herrera is the founder and co-owner of In N Out Restorations located in the city of Chula Vista.

For more than 22 years, they have been dedicated to the design, construction, and remodeling of real estate, both residential and commercial.

His focus is to assist both local and foreign clients in the process of renovating or building any property, whether for personal or business use.

The goal of IN N OUT RESTORATIONS is to be able to facilitate and guide the client throughout the process:

Layout, (research zoning and density). Assist in the architectural plans with all the requirements to submit to the city where the property is located, assist in the process of corrections to be able to approve their plans, not only in the city but also in any relevant association council.

Assist with your work project, both finishes and the financing part. Once the project is approved, coordinate with the subcontractors, as well as the different inspectors to be able to bring better harmony to the work.

It is of paramount importance not only to have good property, but in a good construction team. Sometimes, it focuses on trying to sacrifice cost without considering that quality of both material and labor is sacrificed.

IN

N OUT RESTORATIONS’ motto is simple,

“We have to do it right and we have to do it only once.”

Being not only contractors, but also developers, investors, and real estate agents, they can give your work a point of view that not any company can offer them.

They offer unparalleled service for all your real estate and home improvement needs in one place.

Considering that the real estate market evolves, IN N OUT RESTORATIONS assists you in taking advantage of any stage that arises at that moment.

As an example, it is mentioned that before it was the bank foreclosed houses, then the famous flips, and now it is in the ADUs.

Edgar Herrera attends to you personally and takes you by the hand along with the entire IN-N-OUT RESTORATIONS team.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Fall. My favorite season. Pumpkin spice, pumpkin lattes, pumpkin everything! In poetry, it symbolizes the beginning of the end. The weather starts changing, winds get cooler, and hoodies come back for good. Ochres, burnt sienna, and golden tones are everywhere. We celebrate our Hispanic Heritage; our guilty pleasures of bingewatching horror movies and Halloween costumes and we have a day dedicated to our loved ones that have died. We give thanks and we celebrate our binational culture in every possible way, from tortillas to cranberry sauce and from witches and goblins to marigolds and shrines of the Day of the Dead. NFL season is here, and we will also say goodbye to our baseball teams until next Spring. Kids are in school, and we have a chance to really start evaluating our finances, we get to read about where our economy is headed and how we all can be part of the change. Whether it’s aliens or a viral TikTok, we stand united because there is just no other way. Harvest your life and continue being part of La Revista Binacional. Enjoy this issue.

Gina Dewar Chief Editor

El otoño. Mi estación favorita. Especias de calabaza, lattes de calabaza, ¡todo de calabaza! En poesía, simboliza el principio del fin. El clima comienza a cambiar, los vientos se vuelven más fríos y las sudaderas con capucha regresan. Los ocres, los tonos cafés y los colores dorados están por todas partes. Celebramos nuestra Herencia Hispana; nuestros gustos culposos de ver películas de terror y disfrazarnos en Halloween y tenemos un día dedicado a nuestros seres queridos que han muerto. Damos gracias y celebramos nuestra cultura binacional de todas las formas posibles, desde tortillas hasta salsa de arándanos y desde brujas y duendes hasta caléndulas, cempasúchil, y adoratorios del Día de Muertos. La temporada de la NFL está aquí, y también nos despediremos de nuestros equipos de béisbol hasta la próxima primavera. Los niños están en la escuela y tenemos la oportunidad de realmente comenzar a evaluar nuestras finanzas, podemos leer sobre hacia dónde se dirige nuestra economía y cómo todos podemos ser parte del cambio. Ya sean extraterrestres o un TikTok viral, estamos unidos porque no hay otra manera. Cosecha tu vida y sigue siendo parte de La Revista Binacional. Disfruta de esta edición.

Lots of love,

Con todo mi cariño, Gina Dewar Directora de redacción

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10 Red Flags to Look for When Online Shopping

The digital world has brought about conveniences and opportunities that we‘ve never had before. With just a few clicks, you can have products from all corners of the globe delivered right to your doorstep. However, along with these benefits, there‘s also a dark side—online shopping scams. These cyber traps can easily trick you into spending your hard-earned money on products that either don‘t exist or aren‘t as advertised. To help you navigate the e-commerce sea without falling prey to such fraudsters, we‘ll explore ten red flags to look out for when shopping online.

Red Flag 1: Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices

As a seasoned shopper, you probably already have a good idea of how much certain items should cost. Therefore, if you stumble upon an online shop offering high-end products at shockingly low prices, it‘s time to put your detective hat on. While everyone loves a good bargain, remember the age-old saying, „If it‘s too good to be true, it probably is.“ So, exercise caution, and don‘t let those flashy discounts blind you to potential scams.

Scammers often use misspellings or slight alterations to trick shoppers into thinking they‘re on a legitimate site. For example, the URL might read „Amazan“ instead of „Amazon.“ Another common trick is to append a brand or store name to a random URL. Always double-check the URL before making any purchases.

Red Flag 3: No Physical Address or Contact Information

Transparency is a hallmark of any reputable e-commerce platform. If a website lacks detailed information—like a physical address, contact information, or a brief history about the company—it‘s probably wise to tread lightly. Moreover, if it‘s a newly established website with no reviews or customer feedback, you should consider it as another red flag. Do a quick search about the site to see what others have experienced before proceeding with a purchase.

Red Flag 4: Lack of Secure Payment Options

Be wary of websites that require you to use unconventional payment options, such as direct bank transfers, pre-loaded money cards, or cryptocurrencies. Reputable retailers typically offer a variety of standard payment methods, including credit or debit cards and established payment platforms like PayPal. If you‘re asked to transfer funds directly, you may be putting yourself at risk.

Red Flag 5: Unavailable or Unhelpful Customer Service

The fifth red flag is unavailable or unhelpful customer service. Good customer service is the backbone of any reputable online retailer. If a site lacks clear customer service contact options or if representatives are unresponsive, this could indicate a less-than-reputable

seller. Try contacting customer service before purchasing to test their response time and helpfulness.

Red Flag 6: The Website Pressures You to Buy Quickly

Have you ever visited a site where every product is part of a „limited-time deal?“ Or perhaps you‘ve seen pop-ups informing you that an item is „about to sell out?“ Scammers frequently use these tactics to pressure shoppers into making impulsive decisions. While legitimate sites do use these tactics occasionally, it should not be a constant feature. If you feel rushed or pushed into buying something, it‘s probably best to step away.

Red Flag 7: Unnecessary Personal Information Requested

No online retailer needs your social security number or birthday to do business. If you‘re asked for this type of sensitive information, treat it as

a red flag. The same goes for overly intrusive questionnaires that ask for more personal details than necessary. A rule of thumb: share as little information as possible.

Red Flag 8: Risks Associated with Social Media Shopping

While many legitimate businesses use social media to reach their customers, it‘s also a hotbed for scam artists. Be especially careful when clicking through to products advertised on social platforms. Always check out the company‘s main website and read reviews before making a purchase.

Red Flag 9: Beware of Clicking Links in Promotional Emails

Phishing emails are the most common way for scammers to lure you into giving away your credit card information or passwords. These emails often mimic the look of emails from reputable sites and ask you to follow a link to a fake website. To avoid

this, don‘t click on links in emails. Instead, type the store‘s URL directly into your browser.

Red Flag 10: Missing or Unclear Return and Refund Policies

The final red flag is missing or unclear return and refund policies. These policies are essential because they protect you if the product doesn‘t meet your expectations. Websites with unclear or nonexistent return/refund policies could lead to frustrating experiences. Always read these policies thoroughly before making a purchase.

Remember, when it comes to online shopping, vigilance and caution are your best friends. If something seems off, listen to your gut and take the time to do some research. The best deals aren’t always the cheapest—sometimes, they’re the ones that don’t compromise your safety and peace of mind.

Lee en español

GHOST JOBS

A ghost job is a term used to describe a job or position that does not actually exist or is not officially recognized. It can refer to situations where individuals are appointed or hired for a position without any real responsibilities or tasks, often as a form of favoritism or political maneuvering. In some cases, it can also refer to jobs that are created solely for the purpose of providing employment without any clear purpose or function.

Examples of ghost jobs include:

1. “No-show” or “phantom” employees: These are individuals who are added to the payroll but do not actually work or perform any duties. Their positions may be created to fulfill diversity quotas or to siphon off money for personal gain.

2. Figurehead positions: Sometimes, high-level executives or public officials appoint individuals to prestigious positions to give the appearance of inclusivity or expertise, even though these individuals have little or no actual power or influence in decision-making.

3. Redundant or duplicated roles: In some organizations, multiple employees may be hired for the same job function, creating unnecessary positions that serve no real purpose. This can happen due to poor management practices, lack of communication, or personal favoritism.

4. Nepotism or favoritism: Ghost jobs can be created to provide employment for friends, family members, or individuals with close connections to those in power. These individuals may receive a salary and benefits without fulfilling any meaningful responsibilities.

5. “Make-work” positions: Some organizations may create jobs solely for the purpose of keeping employees busy or appearing productive. These positions often lack clear objectives or deliverables and are meaningless tasks designed to maintain the appearance of a full workforce.

It’s important to note that the existence of ghost jobs can be detrimental to organizations, leading to inefficiency, demoralization among employees, and misuse of resources.

Have you ever had a ghost job? Do they exist in your company and/or workplace? It would be interesting to find out.

Lee en español

Resiliencia y Migración

Por: Ambar Picasso, Psicóloga y Life Coach

La migración es un tema sumamente interesante, es por ello por lo que me gusta el lema “Liberando las mentes latinas”, porque para dar el paso de liberarnos de nuestras ciudades o países de origen es necesario liberar la mente de limitaciones, miedos, etc. Hace poco escuché a una persona mencionar que “Emigrar es un derecho” y caí en la cuenta de que es verdad, parte del derecho a la libertad que todos tenemos, lleva consigo el derecho de poder irnos a otros lugares libremente, aunque los hechos en el mundo nos hacen creer que en ocasiones no se permite ejercer libremente ese derecho. Pero, en fin, ese no es el tema que quiero abordar hoy.

El tema que te quiero compartir es de una de las habilidades más importantes para tener éxito al emigrar, obviamente los que nos encontramos en la cultura binacional entre Estados Unidos y México (o tu país de origen) hemos tenido que desarrollarla,

algunos la poseen ya desde la infancia y otros la hemos tenido que cultivar, me refiero a la RESILIENCIA, este es un concepto muy en auge en el área de la Psicología pero te sorprenderá saber que es un término que surgió de la Física y que se refiere a una característica de los materiales que pueden resistir un impacto y volver a su forma original, como ejemplo tenemos el junco o la goma, pero también existen algunos tipos de acero que son altamente resilientes.

Pero no es de física ni de ingeniaría de lo que te quiero platicar, sino de como esta característica es importante en la psicología, como resultado de varios estudios a personas que lograron sobreponerse a los estragos de la guerra hace algunas décadas. Es por ello por lo que una persona resiliente, es aquella que tiene la capacidad de gestionar sus emociones, para hacerle frente a los desafíos que la vida le presenta, se caracterizan por

tener buen humor y a pesar de cometer errores, éstos los utilizan como experiencias y oportunidades de aprendizaje para seguir adelante.

Es por ello por lo que aquí te presento 3 sencillas preguntas para que descubras si eres una persona resiliente:

1. ¿Puedes recordar alguna persona, especialmente de tu infancia que te haya hecho sentir amado incondicionalmente, es decir cuando piensas en esa persona sólo puedes sentir amor, pudo ser mamá, papá, un abuelo@, ti@, padrino, madrina, Herman@, etc.?

2. ¿Has podido salir adelante de situaciones

difíciles, como crisis familiares, rechazo, adicciones, carencias, pérdidas o duelos, etc.?

3. ¿Has cambiado creencias que en tu familia, educación o cultura ya no te funcionan?

Si contestaste que sí, te felicito, eres una persona resiliente y sino, te invito a seguirme en mis redes sociales para aprender más de cómo desarrollarla, la resiliencia es una habilidad que todos podemos cultivar. Te agradezco de nueva cuenta haberme acompañado en esta lectura y espero encontrarnos de nuevo en otro artículo para seguir liberando nuestras mentes.

Que Buena 106.5, “San Diego’s First Mexican Regional Radio Station” is proud to be celebrating its “Silver Jubilee’. Twenty-five years of broadcasting from San Diego, bringing exceptional entertainment, information, and providing insight to the rich culture of Southern California’s Mexican Heritage!

La Revista Binacional the magazine for “Latino Excellence” was able to obtain a few minutes with the Community Empowerment Director of TelevisaUnivision, Mery LopezGallo who has been with Que Buena 106.5 right from the start.

Lopez-Gallo believes the past 25 years has been meaningful in bringing the San Diego community together, and now together we celebrate the rich musical heritage that has become an integral part of San Diego’s identity.

When we asked Lopez-Gallo what she thought was the most important aspect of the success of Que Buena 106.5, she replied without hesitation “that everyone here believes our loyal radio listeners are the true heroes and without them we would not be here. The relationship between our faithful listeners and the ability of our air talent to provide great content are the core reasons Que Buena 106.5 continues to be rated as one of San Diego’s most listened to stations”. Mexican Regional music is as vibrant as ever with its diverse genre of music styles, such as Ranchera, Norteño, Banda, Cumbia, and most recently the Corridos Tumbados.

Lopez-Gallo added “our entire team is a huge aspect of our success. I’m glad to share this landmark with four other colleagues who are also celebrating 25 years at Que Buena 106.5. Luis Sanchez who’s an important member of our activations team and co-host of our mid-day shift, Hector

Mery Lopez-Gallo, Que Buena 106.5 Community Empowerment Director

(From left to right) Que Buena 106.5 Luis Sanchez, Hector Sandoval, Teresa Buswell, Angel Ramos & Mery Lopez-Gallo

Sandoval (Account Coordinator) who started with us as a young teen and has held many integral roles, Teresa Buswell (Account Executive), and Angel Ramos (Station Engineer).

“We’d also like to acknowledge and thank the trust our clients have given us over the past 25 years. Through their belief in Que Buena 106.5 and our dynamic staff we have helped hundreds of mom-and-pop shops grow their business and we have played a relevant part with increasing the clientele of their established businesses, who in turn distinguished us as the best media outlet to connect with the fastest growing segment of the population, the Hispanic market.”

Overall, Lopez-Gallo concluded by adding “that it’s an amazing feeling to work for a company that believes in giving back to our community. One of our biggest promotions is our annual Que Buena 106.5 radiothon Promesa y Esperanza in cooperation with St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where together we have raised millions of dollars for medical research.

Over the last 25 years we have spearheaded important civic engagement campaigns that range from domestic violence to Get out the Vote. Personally, as a participant of the Chicano Federation of San Diego, Foundation for the Children of the California’s, MANA, Southwestern College, and others, along with our Public Affairs show “De Viva Voz” Que Buena 106.5 has been able to impact

the San Diego Community in a very positive way. Qué Buena 106.5 signature events and onsite promotional prowess exceed all other stations in the market in terms of attendance, professionalism, and entertainment. With a premiere roster of on-air talent featuring “El Bueno, La Mala, y El Feo”, “El Free Guey Show”, and hometown favorite “El Jarocho”, Qué Buena 106.5 is very proud of the first 25 years and now seeks to become better for our next phase. We look forward to serving San Diego in the next 25 years! Qué Buena 106.5 is simply the #1 Spanish Language station in San Diego!

La Revista Binacional compliments Que Buena 106.5 on such a prestigious milestone!

Que Buena 106.5 continues to actively make a difference by connecting with its listeners. Their community involvement remains strong fostering a connection and admiration by its listeners and all that enjoy it.

(From left to right) Que Buena 106.5 on-air talent Luis “El Compaye” Sanchez, Milton “Jarocho” Andrade, M-F 10am-3pm, and Alejandro “El Ojitos” Navarro M-F 7pm-12am

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INNOVATIONS & RESILIENCE

NATIVE AMERICAN LEGACY

Inthe tapestry of American antiquity, Native Americans weave a rich and fascinating thread, a lasting legacy reaching far beyond the boundaries of historical sources. Although sometimes dominated by more prominent accounts, Native American contributions to art, science, environmental conservation, and various fields are astonishing. As we evolve into a new era of cultural appreciation, it is the best time to uncover their stories, innovation, and resilience and how they have shaped the very foundations of our society.

Numerous cave and rock art and paintings dominate the Native American culture, according to vast excerpts, and have contributed to this history extensively. A perfect example is the Buffalo’s role in the American Indian culture and how it is depicted in their art. These communities painted narratives relating to vast aspects of their lives and used them to record their activities over time. This artwork is not just about the Native paintings; they also contributed to the silver jewel designs, more so the Native tribes in the Southwest.

Native American traditional healers invented methods of coming up with scientific methods to relieve pain. For instance, the Jimson weed has been applied in present-day Virginia to cope with painful conditions. Native Americans also used plants as anesthetic agents when setting up fractured bones. The syringe is another crucial scientific contribution of the Native Americans who made early versions of syringes using hollow bird-bones and bladders—an invention that would be used in Europe during the 19th century. Native Americans would also invent the use of wildflower goldthread as a medical treatment for oral pain and as a mouthwash.

In environmental conservation, Native Americans centered on respect for nature and the connections to all living things. Today, many native tribes have been on the front of environmental conservation and pushed for protecting sacred areas and wildlife. These tribes have also participated in sustainable practices depicting the significance of preserving the

environment for the future. Their language has also been useful in providing insights into the diverse language structure and in understanding human communication. Efforts by the local and state government to revitalize their languages have led to partnerships with linguists to preserve their culture. Prominent community authors like Sherman Alexie, Louise Erdrich, and Leslie Marmon Silko have helped un enriching their literature through powerful storytelling and narrating their experiences in the Americas.

As we conclude this examination of the contributions of Native Americans to society, we should always be reminded that their stories are not far from static. It has been a continuing account that flourishes in the present and lays a solid foundation for a more comprehensive and enlightened future. Learning and embracing these Native American treasures helps enrich our distinctiveness and helps us appreciate them for their intelligence and culture bestowed upon us.

De raíces y cultura: migrantes Desafian Do el tiempo y la Distancia

“Una de las funciones principales del cerebro humano es su capacidad de adaptación. Sin embargo, como migrantes, esta adaptación se mezcla con el duelo de haber dejado lo nuestro y la búsqueda de conservar los lazos culturales que nos dan sentido de pertenencia.”

Escrito por: Lic. Laura Mejorado

Cerca de 1.5 millones de personas emigraron a EE. UU en el 2021 (Departamento de Estado). Según el Migration Policy Institute, los mexicanos constituyen el mayor grupo de inmigrantes en Estados Unidos. Guatemala, El Salvador y Honduras resaltan también como los países latinoamericanos de donde arriba una gran parte de los migrantes.

La migración es un proyecto de vida que nos enfrenta al denominado “Duelo Migratorio”, generado por el sentimiento de pérdida de familia, amigos y cultura que dejamos al salir de nuestro país natal. Una forma de navegar exitosamente este duelo es recreando y conservando nuestra cultura a pesar del tiempo y la distancia.

Adriana Reid, agregada cultural y de prensa del Consulado de México en San Diego (2011 al 2021).

Para comprender mejor cómo los migrantes conservan su identidad cultural de origen, la asociación sin fines de lucro “Magnolias”, realizó una encuesta a 68 mujeres radicadas en el Sur de California. La encuesta reveló que la gastronomía, el idioma, las fiestas tradicionales, el folklore y la música son los medios predominantes para conservar sus raíces. Casi el 70% afirmó que sus hijos tienen un alto nivel de aceptación de la cultura y tradiciones del país de origen, lo cual nos habla del énfasis que estas familias ponen en pasar a la siguiente generación la cultura que los identifica.

Adriana Reid, quien tuvo una experiencia destacada como agregada cultural y de prensa en el Consulado Mexicano en San Diego, nos comenta que los consulados juegan un papel fundamental en los procesos de adaptación, “... los consulados son casas de servicio para los connacionales que viven en el extranjero“. Dentro de los apoyos que se ofrecen, Adriana cita la realización de eventos para celebrar tradiciones, como la fiesta de la Independencia de México.

Recientemente, Edith Fuentes y Carolina Torres fundaron “Magnolias“, una organización que despliega esfuerzos significativos para facilitar el proceso de adaptación de latinas migrantes. Su iniciativa, “Dale la mano a la que va llegando“, tiene como objetivo prevenir problemas de salud mental asociados con el duelo migratorio a través de un programa de 12 semanas. “Magnolias“ incluye además actividades culturales como visita a museos y una comunidad de lectura donde se procura leer autores hispanohablantes, brindando a estas mujeres espacios de crecimiento personal y cultural en compañía de otras mujeres que comparten la experiencia migratoria.

Los servicios proporcionados por instituciones como estas permiten que las familias se integren a una comunidad donde todos se apoyan a construir su nueva vida, sin dejar atrás sus tradiciones, su idioma y todo lo que añade valor a su idiosincrasia, enriqueciendo el crisol cultural que conforma a los Estados Unidos.

Coffee Culture

01

ESPRESSO

A very concentrated and intense shot of pure coffee, extracted under high pressure, served in a small cup, 1 to 2 oz.

02

AMERICANO

Espresso diluted with hot water.

03

CAPPUCCINO

Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. This drink creates the perfect balance for savoring the espresso.

Real names of coffee favorites

As coffee culture becomes more and more popular, coffee menus have included a vast array of coffee drinks. However, as coffee choices diversify, so do the misconceptions and the messing of the original recipes. Let’s learn about how some of the most famous coffee drinks are actually supposed to be made.

07

CAFFÈ MOCHA

Espresso combined with chocolate and steamed milk, creating a perfect coffee-chocolate harmony.

08

CAFFÈ AU LAIT

Translates to coffee and milk, with equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk, for a mild and comforting drink.

09

FLAT WHITE

Pour 2 shots of espresso and smooth steamed milk. No foam!

Still think a macchiato is a cold drink? Coffee shops all around the world have changed the names of this Italian delicacy, learn about coffee and surprise your barista!

BECOMING A VEGAN, THE HEALTHY WAY

Becoming a vegan can be a positive and healthy lifestyle choice. Here are some steps you can take to transition to a vegan diet without compromising your health:

1. Educate yourself: Start by learning about the nutritional needs of a vegan diet. Make sure you understand how to get all the necessary nutrients, such as protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12, from plant-based sources.

2. Gradual transition: It can be helpful to gradually transition to a vegan diet instead of making sudden changes. Start by incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals and gradually reducing your consumption of animal products.

3. Plan meals: Plan your meals in advance to ensure you’re getting a balanced diet. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds to meet your nutritional needs.

4. Protein sources: Ensure you’re getting enough protein by including plant-based sources like beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, seitan, and quinoa in your meals.

5. Watch out for deficiencies: Pay attention to your intake of nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Consider taking supplements or fortified foods if necessary.

6. Find vegan alternatives: Explore the wide range of vegan alternatives available, such as plantbased milk, cheese, yogurt, and meat substitutes. These can help you transition more smoothly.

7. Seek support: Connect with vegan communities, online forums, or support groups to get advice, share experiences, and find inspiration.

Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, so listen to your body and adjust as needed. It’s also advisable to consult a registered dietitian to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs during this transition.

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest originally started in Munich, Germany in 1810 as a celebration of the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The citizens of Munich were invited to join in the festivities, which included horse races, parades, and beer.

Over time, Oktoberfest grew in popularity and became an annual event. It gradually transformed into the festival we know today, with beer tents, traditional Bavarian music, food, and amusement rides. It has become one of the largest and most famous festivals in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.

In the United States, Oktoberfest celebrations began in the 19th century when German immigrants brought their customs and traditions with them. These celebrations initially took place within German immigrant communities but eventually spread to other cities and regions. Today, Oktoberfest events can be found throughout the country, often featuring live music, traditional German food and drink, and activities like those found at the original festival in Munich.

The popularity of Oktoberfest in the USA can be attributed to the desire of many people to experience and celebrate German culture and traditions. It has also become a way for communities to come together and enjoy a festive atmosphere with friends and family.

Some traditional activities and attractions that visitors can expect to find at Oktoberfest (All over Germany and also worldwide) include:

1. Beer Tents: Oktoberfest is famous for its large beer tents, where you can enjoy a wide variety of German beers. Each tent has its unique atmosphere and theme, and they often have live music and dancing.

2. Traditional Bavarian Food: Oktoberfest is a great opportunity to try some authentic Bavarian cuisine. From pretzels and sausages to schnitzel and sauerkraut, you’ll find a delicious range of traditional dishes.

3. Live Music and Performances: Throughout the festival, there are numerous stages and beer tents featuring live bands and performers. You can expect to hear traditional German music, folk dances, and even modern hits.

4. Fairground Rides and Games: Oktoberfest also has a fairground area with thrilling rides, games, and amusement attractions. From roller coasters to Ferris wheels and shooting galleries, there’s something for everyone.

5. Parades and Processions: Oktoberfest usually begins with a grand parade featuring traditional costumes, marching bands, floats, and horse-drawn carriages. It’s a festive and colorful spectacle that sets the mood for the entire event.

6. Traditional Costume Contests: Many visitors embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest by dressing up in traditional Bavarian costumes, such as lederhosen for men and dirndls for women. Some tents even hold costume contests with prizes.

7. Souvenir Stalls: If you want to take home a memento of your Oktoberfest experience, there are plenty of souvenir stalls selling traditional Oktoberfest merchandise, from beer steins and clothing to trinkets and accessories.

Remember, each Oktoberfest event may offer slightly different activities and attractions, but these are some of the common elements you can expect to find.

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THE STORY BEHIND A SONG

By: Carlos “Payta” Sánchez

Whenever someone listens to a song, they may or may not have an affinity with it, even if it is a success or one more song in the universe, letters, or words that remain suspended in time. But for whoever wrote it, it meant something, and it comes from the inspiration of the author who is looking for a “Hit”, some introspection, some madness, a hallucinogenic trip, or something relevant that happened in their lives or intimately moved them. Today I will focus on some well-known songs that have an interesting background, and you may not know why they were written.

Starting with Pearl Jam, one of Seattle Grunge’s biggest names, and it may come as no surprise that their hit song “Jeremy” from their debut album Ten was inspired by the true story of Jeremy Delle, a 15-year-old student who committed suicide in front of to his English class at Richardson High School in Richardson, Texas, on January 8, 1991. Although bassist Jeff Ament wrote it to singer Eddie Vedder, the story resonated with him from his own experience in his youth.

Back to Black is about Amy Winehouse’s breakup with her then-boyfriend Blake FielderCivil. They got back together and married in 2007. In that same year, in Rolling Stone

magazine, Winehouse admitted that this song and the entire album (Back to Black, 2006) were about this difficult time in their relationship: “All the songs are about the state of my relationship at the time with Blake. I had never felt this way about anyone out of all the people that have gone through in my life. It was very cathartic because I felt terrible about the way we treated each other. That I even thought I would never see each other again.”

Paul McCartney wrote “Hey Jude” originally as “Hey Jules,” a song intended to comfort John Lennon’s five-yearold son Julian when his parents were divorcing. The change to “Jude” was inspired by the character “Jud” from the musical Oklahoma! In 1987, Julian Lennon ran into Paul in New York City when they were staying at the same hotel, and eventually heard Paul tell him the story of the song firsthand. He admitted to Paul that, growing up, he had always felt closer to him than he had to his own father.

Every Breath You Take is one of the most misinterpreted songs in history. It’s about an obsessive stalker, but we all interpret it as a love song. Some even used it as their wedding song. The Police frontman Sting wrote it after splitting from his first wife, Frances Tomelty. To

New Musical Express, Sting explained: “I think it’s a nasty little song, really quite evil. It’s about jealousy and surveillance and property.” Regarding the common misinterpretation of the song, he added: “I think the ambiguity is intrinsic to the song no matter how you treat it because the words are so sadistic. Billie Jean is about a woman who claimed that Jackson was the father of her child. Jackson was based on a woman who used to harass him and write him letters about a child she believed she was his. Jackson rarely spoke of this woman, but he found it very difficult to deal with this unwanted attention, and he became more reclusive as a result. The song was his way of expressing her feelings without addressing her directly. Jackson never gave any details about the real Billie Jean. Producer Quincy Jones, who produced Thriller (1982), said Jackson found the woman lounging by her pool one day in a bathing suit and sunglasses. According to Jones, he accused Jackson of fathering one of his twins, which Jones found quite funny.

Games without Frontiers’ first Top 10 hit is Peter Gabriel’s US and was a critique of adults. This song is about childish pranks by adults. Gabriel wrote this before the US boycotted the 1980 Moscow Olympics, an event that reinforced the theme of adults acting like children to foolish games. The recurring lyric at the beginning and end is “jeux sans frontieres”, which is French for “Games without Frontiers” and is often misinterpreted as “she’s so popular”.

London Calling is an apocalyptic song that details the many ways the world could end, including the arrival of the ice age, famine, and war. It was the song that best defined The Clash, who were known for lashing out at injustice and rebelling against the establishment, which is what punk rock was all about. Joe Strummer explained in 1988 to Melody Maker: “I read about 10 news reports in one day calling a whole variety of plagues upon us”... Now that I write it, I wasn’t so far off Joe.

Mandinka is a West African tribe with rich musical traditions. In the song, Sinéad O’Connor feels an affinity with the tribe and

sings “I do know Mandinka”. The song was inspired by the Roots miniseries, based on the book by Alex Haley. The series aired in 1977 and attracted a large audience, it follows an African named Kunta Kinte (also mentioned by Mecano in his song “El Blues del Esclavo”). “She was a child when I saw it, and she was so moved that I had such a visceral response,” O’Connor wrote in her memoir Rememberings of Her. “I came to emotionally identify with the civil rights movement and slavery, especially given the theocracy I lived in and the oppression in my own home.”

With this song I close this article, remembering the great artist Sinéad O’Connor who passed away on July 23 of this year. See you in the next magazine.

VALLE DE GUADALUPE IN ONE DAY

Written by Arnulfo Manríquez

It shouldn‘t, but it still amazes me that people who live in San Diego/ Los Angeles/Southern California and are wine lovers, haven‘t visited Valle de Guadalupe. Being so close and yet so far for many. The truth is that one can spend a whole day in Valle de Guadalupe, leaving early and returning at night after a delicious dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. But it is important to go with a plan if it is your first time. I can wake up on a Sunday, decide to go to Valle without a plan, and have an incredible time, but I‘ve been visiting for years.

Here are some tips on how to make the best of a day at Valle de Guadalupe:

First plan for breakfast arriving Valle, around 9:30/10:00 with reservation, there are so many restaurants of all types and prices. I recommend a reservation at Cuarzo, there are several breakfast options, with meat and vegetarian dishes, a good lavender mimosa or pure sparkling wine, or some coffee.

I like Eggs Benedict with meat, but there are many options. Fresh homemade conchas are served to your table with jam while you wait for breakfast to arrive, sometimes we ask for seconds.

After breakfast, I recommend going to spend two hours in a vineyard that you want to know about or that is recommended, I recommend CASA MAGONI. Starting at 12:00, every weekend they have live music, you can sit outside under a 400-year-old tree enjoying such rich wines, whether, from valle-raised grapes or grapes that come from Italian clones that bring old-world traditions, that is their reserve line. Yes, I really like their reserve tasting, but all their wines are very good.

After about two hours, go out to see another vineyard, and depending on what you are looking for, either a vineyard with beautiful views or one that is more recognized for its wines, then decide. You can search for which one you want to explore.

On this occasion, I recommend Viña Emiliana, which overlooks its vineyards and the mountains to the north of Valle. There you can ask for a tasting; I prefer a bottle of their Nebbiolo Reserve or their Cabernet Sauvignon MAN CAB. Ask for Miguel or Laura and they will talk to you about their wines and share everything they know about Valle and its vineyards. Other options near there would be Emevé, Casta de Vinos, or Pijoan Wines.

To end your day in Valle de Guadalupe, a good dinner at Lunarios with a

reservation at 4:30/5:00 pm, you can order a 4 or 6-course dinner, with or without wine pairing. It is a lot of food so, if you are hungry and eat a lot, then order the 6 courses, but 4 courses are enough. The whole table must decide which one they want. I have spent 3-4 hours in a 6-course dinner enjoying friendship, laughter, delicious dinner, and delicious wines. Lunarios change their food menu every first Thursday of the month, so each month you will find different dishes. Chef Sheyla Alvarado has a lot of creativity when cooking and they always have a very good pairing with wines. Finish with your cup of coffee and get ready for the trip back home. Always make sure someone can drive you back. There are many other restaurants to choose from, but I have lived days like this in Valle and I have had a great time.

Follow this plan since it does not have many deviations and you will be able to enjoy your day in Valle de Guadalupe.

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PARTICIPATING

CHEFS DAY OF THE DEAD PARADE, ALTAR AND LIVE MUSIC

Jorge Fuentes Francisco Gallegos Carlos Esquivel Joel Quintana

Cynthia Gonzalez boasts an impressive track record as an Award-Winning Senior Marketing Director with over 18 years of experience. She excels in assessing profitability, gauging market visibility, and crafting strategic campaigns that transform business specifications into impactful executions.

Throughout her career, Cynthia has consistently made significant positive strides, breaking barriers and overcoming challenges. It’s apparent that she is deeply committed to establishing a lasting legacy of her Hispanic heritage. Cynthia shared her aspiration during a casual lunch: “I wanted to honor my Mexican culture by showcasing it through a Día De Muertos festival in the marketplace where I’ve worked since 2008.”

Cynthia stands as a shining embodiment of Latino Excellence. Her unwavering passion and dedication to delivering on her promises have propelled NewMark Merrill Companies, Inc shopping centers to international acclaim. With her exceptional leadership and boundless creativity, she has captivated both merchants and community members alike. Each marketing initiative she spearheads leaves customers enchanted and eager for the next innovative concept she unveils.

John Hickman, Managing Director of NewMark Merrill Companies San Diego Division, praises her role in aligning with

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the company’s mission to uplift neighborhoods where their shopping centers thrive. He states, “Both winning programs exemplify NewMark Merrill’s commitment to community enhancement.” He further emphasizes Cynthia’s role in fostering genuine relationships with local communities, achieved through hands-on engagement with retailers and shoppers.

Cynthia Gonzalez’s journey is a testament to her remarkable career

achievements and her dedication to celebrating heritage while making a tangible impact on the communities she serves.

1. HOW HAS YOUR BICULTURAL BACKGROUND BEEN AN INFLUENCE ON YOUR DAY-TODAY LIFE?

My bicultural background offers a broader perspective, infusing rich traditions, facilitating crosscultural communication, fostering an appreciation for diversity, and opening doors to international opportunities. It influences my interactions, decisionmaking, and overall approach to life.

2. IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WOULD YOU CHANGE SOMETHING IN YOUR LIFE?

No, nothing. I truly believe that every single life experience I’ve had has played a crucial role in shaping

La Revista Binacional had the privilege to feature Cynthia Gonzalez, a true example of Latino Excellence. Thanks, Cynthia!

the person I am today. Each moment, whether big or small, has contributed to my growth, learning, and development, making me the unique individual that I am. I embrace and value all my experiences, as they have collectively molded my character and shaped my perspective on life.

3. DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE COFFEE WITH ONCE A WEEK?

My grandmother.

4. WHAT DO YOU LIKE MORE ABOUT LIVING IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA?

Southern California captivates me with its diverse culinary delights and convenient access to amenities. Moreover, the presence of my family in the region makes it an even more cherished place to call home.

About NewMark

On the first call, you find your seat.

On the second call, the excitement begins.

On the third call, the time has come to travel inside a story that will be told by magical beings.

The curtain opens and there he is, in front of you, an actor. The actor dresses in the skin of others, the actor can sing, dance, cry, he can live in that story that makes you laugh or in which he will bring you to tears.

Standing on a stage of any size makes the audience feel emotions from the past or from a life that is not theirs but can become ours.

The theater is an ally and an accomplice for those who seek to feel beyond their hearts. The actor is the medium, he is the conductor, he is the monologue, and he has the strength and courage to be naked in front of his audience.

He is a member of a group of madmen or musical note acrobats.

Take your children’s hand and take them to the theater, where they will find magic and food for their imagination, and you come back every time you want to take the boat to that place that you have almost forgotten.

Third call... we begin!

THEATER

By: Laura Tristán

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QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR PET

As a pet owner, you know how important it is to bond with your furry friend. Quality time spent with your pet strengthens the relationship and provides numerous benefits for you and your companion. The good news is plenty of ways to enjoy quality time with your pet. Whether playing fetch, walking, or simply cuddling on the couch, the key is to make it a regular part of your routine. By doing so, you’ll not only create lasting memories with your pet but also enhance their overall well-being.

Spending quality time with our dogs is both a privilege and a necessity in the busyness of modern life. It cannot be overstated how important quality time is to both our pleasure and the happiness of our dogs. Investing in meaningful interactions and shared experiences strengthens the bond that makes our furry companions an integral part of our lives, like promoting physical and mental well-being. Spending quality time with your pet can help you feel better physically and mentally. Playing interactively stimulates their thoughts, making them feel less anxious and bored. This results in lower stress levels and a healthier lifestyle for pet owners.

Also, spending time with your pet allows you to unplug from technology and be present in a world where connectivity and technology are pervasive. So, set down your technology, engage in some essential playtime with your pet, and watch their eyes fill with excitement.

But remember, pets have distinct personalities and preferences, as people do. While some pets may enjoy outdoor excursions, others could prefer warm interior cuddling sessions. Pay attention to what makes your pet the happiest and adjust your quality time accordingly.

Let’s promise to prioritize spending time with our dogs. Whether it’s a playdate in the park, a quiet snuggle session, or just sharing a treat, these occasions will enhance our lives and forge priceless memories with our beloved pets.

Building a greener future:

How to become a more sustainable business.

By: Andrea Morales

Becoming a greener business is the best way to improve your business. Even if you’re launching your brand or you’ve been in the industry for years, having a sustainable and green business model is the way to go. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their environmental impact and expect companies to be aware of theirs as well. Let’s explore some options that will make your company more sustainable:

Switch your office’s lighting to LEDs

This is one of the easiest ways to start your sustainable journey. LED lights are the most efficient type of lighting on the market and use way less energy than incandescent bulbs; plus, LEDs last up to 25 times longer.

Allow flexible work-from-home options

In order to decrease commute emissions, implementing at least one day a week of a home office will have a great impact. Another bonus to this option is that many employees want a flexible work schedule, so they’ll most likely be delighted.

Photo by Andrea Morales

Eliminate paper use—go digital

Is paper totally necessary? Did you really need to print that email? Going digital is the way of the future; there’s not much need for paper anymore. Most documents can be sent through emails or be kept using cloud storage services like Google Drive or OneDrive. This option is also a great way to save costs and slow deforestation.

Zero Waste break rooms

You can achieve a Zero or Low Waste break room by offering reusable mugs, cups, and cutlery instead of disposables; your business can implement a composting program for food scraps, and if your office uses coffee pods, choose biodegradable or reusable pods.

Replace unnecessary business trips with video calls

After COVID-19, most of us noted that Zoom meetings are just as efficient as on-site meetings. Before scheduling an on-site meeting, consider whether making the trip is necessary.

Educate and Involve Employees

Sustainability is a team effort, educate and involve your staff in your sustainability activities to create a sense of ownership and commitment. Encourage employees to keep learning and suggest their own ideas for making the workplace more environmentally friendly.

By integrating these practices into your business, you contribute to making the

world a better place to live for current and future generations.

Additionally, your efforts will contribute to a positive brand image, cost savings, and increased customer loyalty. Taking small steps today can lead to significant impacts on the planet. Let’s work together towards a greener future.

Orozco Law Firm, APC is a professional corporation in California. We represent clients in the counties of San Diego, Imperial, Riverside, Orange, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles. With over 20 years of experience, we handle three different areas of law. In criminal law cases, we take any criminal matter from any misdemeanor case to any felony case. In personal injury cases, we represent clients who were victims of vehicle accidents, dog bites, or slips and falls. In family law, we represent clients facing divorce, child custody, and domestic violence restraining orders.

Our founder, Jose A. Orozco, is an experienced and aggressive trial attorney who knows how to fight your case in front of a judge or a jury. His own personal hardships while growing up have instilled a passion for justice. He now uses his education, his experience, and his desire for justice to represent clients who are wrongfully accused, victims of accidents, or need a fair outcome in their divorce or child custody matter.

If you are a person who is wrongfully accused of a crime or is being bullied by the government in a criminal case, we are here to represent you. If you were a victim of a vehicle accident and need representation against big insurance companies, we are here to make sure they pay what you deserve, including medical expenses, loss of work, and pain and suffering. If you are going through a divorce or child custody matter and want to ensure a fair outcome in your case, you need to have an experienced trial attorney on your side.

CARLOS DÍAZ

En la Agencia de Carlos Díaz Insurance Agency Inc:

Nos damos a la tarea de ayudar y educar a nuestra comunidad Latina ya que a medida de su gran crecimiento generacional y económico ocupan de un agente competente que entienda sus necesidades tanto en el ámbito de ser un dueño de negocio, casa, autos etc.

El asegurar una de las inversiones más grandes que uno puede tener como una casa es nuestra especialidad, ya sé que viva en ella o la rente o la propiedad este a nombre de una corporación o LLC tenemos el producto adecuado y le explicamos a detalle cual es la pequeña o gran diferencia en esto.

Utilizamos Seguros de vida para proteger su patrimonio en caso de que uno ya no este y deje de ser una carga para nuestros seres queridos entre otros beneficios.

Ya que somos también dueños de pequeñas empresas entendemos lo vital que es tener un general liability o “BOB” para proteger los en contra de un siniestro o demanda a la que estemos expuestos, más aún si tiene empleados es requerido en estado de California contar con un seguro al empleado o workers compensation y no confundir con un plan de gastos médicos.

¿¿¡¡Bienes Raíces!!?? Nuestra agencia cuenta también con ese servicio, tenemos agentes en todo San Diego incluyendo a su servidor para ayudarlo ya sea a vender su casa al mejor precio en el mercado o a comprar la casa de sus sueños, dándole toda la información y herramientas posibles para justos tomar la decisión más educada al momento. Contamos con varios prestamistas que nos ayudarán agilizar el proceso.

El seguro de auto en California ha tenido uno de los cambios más grandes en la historia, también podemos ayudar o guiarlos a la mejor solución posible sobre todo con cobertura binacional.

Como Agencia de Seguros y Bienes Raíces, le proponemos el mejor o los mejores programas considerando lo más adecuado en coberturas para su patrimonio y también lo más importante lograr el tener uno en el marco de ética, responsabilidad y servicio.

CADOI Lic #0L60964

CADRE Lic #02092952

Seguros: cdiaz2@farmersagent.com

Bienes Raíces: carlos.diaz@exprealty.com

Llámenos al 619-425-0079

Oficina y mensaje de texto

By La Revista Binacional

UNIDOS US: THE POWER OF US

Imagine a group of more than 2000 people, most of them Hispanics, and Latinos, reunited in a 3-day conference event in the city of Chicago.

La Revista Binacional had the amazing opportunity of attending this year’s Chicago 2023 event.

UNIDOS US, formerly known as the National Council of La Raza, is the largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States. It works to improve opportunities for Hispanic Americans and focuses on issues such as education, employment, healthcare, and immigration. UNIDOS US also

advocates for policies that promote the well-being and empowerment of the Hispanic community.

Attending UNIDOS US can provide you with numerous benefits. By participating in their events and programs, you can gain valuable knowledge about the issues affecting the Hispanic community and learn about potential solutions. It also provides an opportunity to network with other professionals and leaders who are passionate about improving the lives of Hispanics in the United States.

UNIDOS US can also give you a platform to voice your concerns and contribute to shaping policies that directly impact the Hispanic community. Additionally, by being a part of UNIDOS US, you can join a collective effort to promote equality,

social justice, and inclusivity for all Hispanics in the country.

We are forever grateful to MAAC’s CEO Arnulfo Manriquez, who is also a member of UNIDOS US BOARD, for inviting us to participate. Special thanks to our friends from T-Mobile for inviting La Revista Binacional to their table at every event.

The special guest this year was VPOTUS, Ms. Kamala Harris, who addressed a beautiful speech where she emphasized that there are more things that unite us than those that separate us. It was a powerful speech, welcoming and inviting words for us to continue being a unified community that represents a positive income of trillions of dollars to the American economy.

We got to celebrate this year’s awardees:

• RUBEN SALAZAR AWARD FOR COMMUNICATIONS was for ALFREDO CORCHADO (Dallas Morning News journalist).

• GRACIELA OLIVAREZ LA RAZA AWARD was for MARIA GABRIELA “GABY” PACHECO (Director of Advocacy, Development and Communications at TheDream.us).

• RAUL YZAGUIRRE PRESIDENT AWARD was for MARC MORIAL (CEO of the National Urban League).

• MACLOVIO BARRAZA FOR LEADERSHIP AWARD was for JUAN SALGADO (Chancellor, City Colleges of Chicago).

Congratulations UNIDOS US team and especially UNIDOS US President and CEO Janet Murguía for a beautiful conference, amazing organization, and venue. We will most definitely share our experiences with everyone. See you in Las Vegas, 2024!

Unidos US took place in Chicago, IL, on July 22nd-24th, 2023.

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CELEBRATING A LIVING LEGEND

San Ysidro Health’s Founding Mother,

Mrs. Carmen Martinez Reaches 100 Years

San Ysidro Health (SYHealth) owes its very existence to the unwavering dedication of an exceptional woman, Carmen Martinez. As the last surviving Founding Mother of SYHealth, Mrs. Martinez embodies the remarkable qualities of resilience, volunteerism, and selflessness. Even while working full-time and raising her seven children, she managed to initiate “El Club de Madres,” a group of like-minded mothers who shared a common vision: to bring healthcare to their community.

In the late 1960s, San Ysidro was predominantly an agricultural community that lacked access to adequate healthcare. With only one physician serving the area, the needs of the 7,000 residents were difficult to meet. Families, including Mrs. Martinez’s, had to endure hours of travel to receive medical care. However, through community support, unwavering fervor, and an indomitable spirit, the seven Founding Mothers, including Mrs. Martinez, established “La Casita.” This humble 4-bedroom white house, leased for a dollar, was equipped with donated equipment and staffed by three volunteer nurses and two physicians, providing care two afternoons a week. On average, approximately 40 children were seen each day.

Today, SYHealth is one of San Diego’s largest and most highly regarded nonprofit community health providers with a professional and dedicated workforce of over 2,700 members, 77% of whom are women. SYHealth is proud to deliver compassionate and innovative care to more than 145,000 patients. The organization operates through a comprehensive, integrated network of 50 program sites across San Diego County, including medical clinics, dental clinics, behavioral health centers, HIV centers, WIC nutrition centers, mobile medical units, schoolbased health centers, a teen clinic, a pediatric developmental clinic, a senior health center, a Program for AllInclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE); and, specialty care services such as allergy, acupuncture, rheumatology, podiatry, chiropractic, optometry, and cardiology. Furthermore, SYHealth has expanded its reach to provide essential care and support services in North County and Rural East County.

Donate $100 to Celebrate Carmen Martinez’s 100th Birthday!

To honor Mrs. Carmen Martinez’s 100th birthday and her legacy, supporters are encouraged to donate $100. Your contribution will help to continue providing essential healthcare services to those who need it most. Visit https://www.sandiegogives.org/organization/Sanysidrohealth to make your donation today.

Save the Date for Our 55th Anniversary Celebration!

Mark your calendars! SYHealth will be celebrating its 55th Anniversary at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront on Saturday, August 10, 2024. The entire community is invited to the Emerald Ball as SYHealth commemorates its incredible history.

ACCIDENTALSurvivor

“Somehow.” Like many women, I rarely do self-exams. Then at the doctor’s, I lie and say I do them ALL the time.

I went to my gyno, got a mammogram, and the results said it was a cyst, no cancer!

I went to Africa after the results.

After getting home, I turned my phone on and listened to my messages. There was one from my gynecologist: “This is Dr. Hernandez.”

She called me. Date August 31. It was now Saturday, September 22. Panic set in. When the doctor calls you personally, it’s going to be bad. I tried to remain calm, I kept on touching the lump, and in my head, it had grown to twice the size.

Waiting until Monday to call felt like forever. Upon answering, I expected to be patched through to her, but I wasn’t. They said she’d get back to me soon.

LIE! I kept telling myself it would be nothing. She just wanted to reconfirm it was a cyst, or she got me mixed up with another patient.

When we spoke, she said, “Looking at the results of your mammogram, I remember what I felt on you, and it doesn’t match, get a second opinion from an ONCOLOGIST.”

She might as well have said Grim Reaper. Calmly I answered, “sure,” as if she’d just asked me to pass the salt.

This could not be happening.

I got an appointment with an oncologist for a week later.

Didn’t they understand it could be cancer?

This experience has taught me how to be patient and that I’M NOT SPECIAL. At the appointment, I was able to pretend (mostly to myself) I was ok. I could feel my heart racing. The doctor did a sonogram, felt my breast for what seemed like forever, and he said, “hm... could be anything. I would need to do a biopsy,”

I replied, “DO IT NOW!!!

He performed the biopsy with a needle that was the size of a ruler. I thought that would make the lump explode, and I’d have cancer everywhere.

Here’s where patience started to kick in. I had to wait for the results.

Days later, the doctor called. Again, if the doctor calls, say it with me, “It’s not going to be good.”

He said, “Unfortunately…” After that, I heard nothing else. It was cancer.

I thought, “I am going to die.”

I wondered if people with cancer think that.

I feel that if they don’t, they’re lying. You do crazy things when you’re afraid.

Then, an Aha Moment! I lived in Texas, and MD Anderson Hospital was in Houston, I

went online and registered. Three days later, I met my surgeon and got the exact diagnosis, Infiltrating Duct Carcinoma. I had a lumpectomy (they leave your breast and only take the tumors), and luckily one day before, they found another tumor. After surgery, I felt great, so great that I opened my wound, so I had another surgery.

Later my oncologist told me I didn’t need chemo, so no hair loss; vanity is a key player in cancer. I had six weeks of radiation with no adverse effects.

Five years later, I’m still cancer free. I still get terrified before my checkups, but I’ll be fine.

No one shows you what breast cancer REALLY looks like.

Most people see pink ribbons, breast cancer walks/races, posters, reminders for self-exams, etc.

Scars, no breasts, radiation burns, implants, and hair loss are what the disease REALLY is.

Check yourself, and go to the doctor. I became an Accidental Survivor, don’t let it be you.

“Breast cancer survivor, that’s me! In March 2018, I somehow discovered a lump”.- Marisa Barrio

3 TIMES A SURVIVOR! This is my story

By: Sara Garibay

I have had cancer 3 times.

The first time in the uterus and an ovary. That was 26 years ago. I was the Programming Director of channel 22 KWHY. I had bleeding and abdominal pain. They removed my uterus and left ovary, and 15 days later I was already working. This time they did not give me any chemotherapy treatment.

Three years later my nipples were itchy and sometimes they would bleed. This was the second time the cancer was reactivated.

The doctors only had an hour and a half to operate on me because when they removed my uterus the surgery lasted 6 hours and I reacted very badly to the anesthesia. They were afraid that I would not resist so they harpooned my left breast (they propped up the tumor with needles and took x-rays after each needle to surround the tumor, without anesthesia, thank God the tumor was encapsulated).

On this occasion, they gave me 4 chemotherapies. Between chemoes, I went to my sister’s bakery and learned how to make bread. At that time, I was not working, nor did I have insurance.

I returned to Los Angeles and since I didn’t have a job, I started making bread.

From programming director to becoming a baker, that’s life.

Years later I returned to channel 22 but I resigned for personal reasons.

I founded Zarzuela USA with other friends and during some recordings in Tijuana, I felt like a little lump where I had had cancer before. They did tests on me, and they came out positive. I had 8 tumors, again with chemo, I did not accept the radiation, but I never gave up on my project. So, that was the third time.

Being always busy is one of the best medicines, I walk every day, I eat fruit and vegetables, and I have a shot or two of tequila.

Since I am BRCA 2 positive, I will have cancer until the last day of my life, but I keep the beast asleep with Letrozole 2.5, which is a chemo pill.

Wanting to live, and being busy helps me survive and enjoy each day.

My philosophy is: “He who does not live to serve does not serve to live.”

Today, Zarzuela USA is a reflection of my feelings.

LA ZARZUELA U.S.A.

Escrito por Sara Garibay & Liliana Escalante

La Zarzuela nace en España en el siglo XVII, como un espectáculo cortesano su nombre proviene del palacio de la Zarzuela donde viven actualmente los reyes de España. Allí se representaron las primeras obras escritas por Calderón de La Barca y Lope de Vega. Con el paso del tiempo se transforma en un espectáculo popular que cuenta la evolución de la historia que ha quedado hasta nuestros días, un dato importante es que la Zarzuela fue testigo y defensora de los pobres y mal trechos por lo que se inventó un idioma musical que surgió de las entrañas del pueblo con cierta alegría social; así lo menciona el Doctor Emilio Casares Rodicio, profesor Emérito de la Universidad Complutense de Madrid.

El Doctor John Ballerino, profesor de Zarzuela de la universidad de Santa Bárbara CA y miembro de la mesa directiva de Zarzuela U.S.A. es un gran conocedor de este género en Estados Unidos; comenzó su carrera en 1996 en LA Opera al lado de importantes artistas y representantes tanto de la zarzuela como de la ópera; desde entonces notó el gran interés del público hacia este género lírico sobre todo por la presencia de la comunidad hispana en esa ciudad.

Ballerino describe la música como un lenguaje universal, nos toca a todos, no hay sentimiento, no hay emoción que no esté claramente descrita en la música. Todas las expresiones

humanas están manifestadas en la música y lo hermoso es que convierte las cosas difíciles de entender en arte.

Desde Madrid, España, Isabel Cámara, reconocida actriz, textualista, profesora de técnica actoral y parte de la organización “Zarzuela por el mundo” nos dice que este género es la comedia musical hispana por excelencia, un género único, maravilloso que tiene un estilo propio, exigente y a la vez difícil, por eso la importancia de preparar nuevas generaciones de intérpretes. Isabel Cámara, destaca la iniciativa de Zarzuela USA, que a través de las Voces de la Zarzuela se darán clases magistrales a aproximadamente a 20 participantes de Estados Unidos y otros países para prepararlos en este género musical.

John Ballerino destaca la importancia de Zarzuela USA porque busca crear espacios en los cuales maestros, alumnos y músicos puedan empezar a desarrollar este género.

Cámara señala que la zarzuela debe renovarse, y lamenta que en las escuelas de formación de cantantes líricos no haya una especialidad de Zarzuela, en donde puedan formarse como actores, aprender a hablar, a bailar, a maquillarse o utilizar vestuarios de época; “los cantantes deberían formarse en diversas disciplinas”, indica Cámara.

“La Zarzuela es la vida misma, cantada, interpretada, con música y baile” - Sara Garibay

Zarzuela USA nació el 2019 como una iniciativa destinada a promover en Estados Unidos este género, el idioma español, nuestra identidad hispana.

Es el teatro musical hispano por excelencia, donde se canta, actúa, baila y está la parte instrumental.

Nuestro primer proyecto ya está próximo, se realizará del 4 al 10 de octubre del 2023 y cerraremos el 11 con una Gala con la mezzosoprano Nancy Fabiola Herrera y quienes participaron en las clases magistrales con intérpretes de Estados Unidos, España, México, Colombia y Uruguay. Isabel Cámara también estará en los talleres y nos honrará con su presencia.

En el transcurso de un año recibimos más de 60 solicitudes de 9 países, desgraciadamente a muchos de los seleccionados no les dieron

visa, esperamos que en un futuro no lejano, la música sea un puente de unión entre las naciones.

Pronto empezaremos “Zarzuela en familia y amigos” con la participación de papás, hijos, amigos y al igual que Voces de la Zarzuela estaremos recibiendo videos de todo el mundo y premiaremos a los 5 mejores que recibirán 10, 8, 5, 3 y 2 mil dólares.

Tomaremos en cuenta creatividad, voces, instrumentos, baile...

Nuestra misión es unir a través de nuestro querido género al mayor número de personas.

Visiten nuestra página: www.zarzuelausa. org para que nos conozcan mejor. ¡Los esperamos en Los Ángeles!

El objetivo de Zarzuela USA es producir eventos y estrenos a lo largo de todo el año, además del festival principal que se celebra en octubre, durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana.

Easy Pumpkin Bread

Ingredients

• 1 ½ Cup sugar

• 1 ¼ Cup Flour

• 1 cup canned pumpkin

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• ½ cup pecans or walnuts

• ½ cup cranberries (dried)

Directions

• 1/3 cup water

• 2 eggs

• ½ teaspoon allspice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon baking powder

1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

2. Pour it into a greased loaf baking pan.

3. Bake for 1 ¼ hours in a preheated 350º F oven until you insert a toothpick, and it comes out clean.

4. Allow it to cool before serving.

5. Slice and serve with sweet butter.

6. Enjoy with a cup of your favorite hot tea.

Lee en español

Orange-Glazed Asparragus

Ingredients

• 3 bunches of asparagus

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• ½ cup orange juice

• Zest of large orange

Directions

1. Toss asparagus with salt.

2. Arrange in large 12-inch skillet with lid.

3. Add oil and orange juice to skillet, cover.

4. About 10 minutes before serving time, turn the burner on high. When asparagus starts to steam, set timer for 4 minutes.

5. Cook until tender, checking it at 4 minutes with the tip of a sharp knife.

6. Add zest to skillet and continue to cook until pan juices reduce to a glaze consistency, 2 to 3 minutes longer.

7. Transfer asparagus to serving dish and pour glaze over them. Serve immediately.

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My Famous Pumpkin Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup white sugar

• 1/4 cup melted butter.

• 40 oz cream cheese at room temperature

• 5 eggs at room temperature

• 2 egg yolks at room temperature

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees F.

2. Combine graham cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup sugar and melted butter.

3. Grease a 10-inch springform pan with cooking spray, then press the mixture into the bottom to create the crust. Place the crust in the refrigerator while you prepare the dough.

4. Beat the cream cheese until smooth and add the eggs, one at a time, beating until incorporated. Add 1 3/4 cups of sugar, flour, and heavy cream. Beat until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice

• 1 3/4 cup white sugar

• 2 tablespoons of flour

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 can of pumpkin puree

• Dulce de Leche (caramel)

and beat until incorporated. Add the can of pumpkin puree.

5. Fill a tray with boiling water and place it on the bottom shelf of the oven.

6. Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared cookie crust and bake for 3 hours and 20 minutes on the top rack of the oven. Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar. Leave the cheesecake in the oven turned off for 90 minutes.

7. Let the cheesecake cool completely and refrigerate overnight.

8. Serve with dulce de leche or caramel drizzle on top. Enjoy!

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WHY SHOULD YOU BECOME A REAL ESTATE AGENT?

by: Gina

Dewar

Becoming a real estate agent can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for several reasons. Here are some compelling reasons why you might consider pursuing a career in real estate:

Income Potential: Real estate agents have the potential to earn a substantial income. Commissions from property sales can be lucrative, especially in high-demand markets or when dealing with luxury properties.

Flexibility: Real estate agents often have the flexibility to set their own schedules. This can be beneficial if you value work-life balance or have other personal commitments.

Independence: As a real estate agent, you typically work as an independent contractor, giving you a degree of autonomy in how you operate your business.

Variety and Excitement: The real estate industry offers diversity in terms of properties, clients, and locations. No two days are the same, which can make the work exciting and engaging.

Helping Others: Real estate agents play a crucial role in helping people find their dream homes or sell their properties. It can be rewarding to be a part of such important life decisions.

Networking Opportunities: Real estate agents build a vast network of contacts, including other professionals in the industry, clients, and potential leads, which can be valuable for personal and professional growth.

Constant Learning: The real estate market is dynamic and ever-changing, requiring agents to stay informed about market trends, regulations, and best practices. If you enjoy continuous learning, this can be a stimulating career choice.

Personal Growth: Being a real estate agent can help you develop essential skills such as negotiation, communication, marketing, and problem-solving, which can benefit you in various aspects of life.

Potential for Growth: While you might start as a solo agent, you have the opportunity to grow your business by forming a team, becoming a broker, or expanding into related fields like property management or real estate investing.

Job Stability: People will always need housing, so there will always be a demand for real estate agents. Even during economic downturns, there are opportunities in real estate.

However, it’s essential to consider the challenges that come with being a real estate agent, such as the initial investment in training and licensing, unpredictable income during slow market periods, and the need to work diligently to build a client base. Before pursuing a career in real estate, take the time to research the requirements, market conditions in your area, and your personal aptitude for the role.

If you ever want to explore this path in your career, feel free to contact me. I belong to a binational real estate team that can take you to places you never thought possible with all of your real estate businesses. Give us a call, we can help you. NEWJOURNEY RE GROUP is the best brokerage for all your binational real estate needs. TXT “info on real estate” to 915-321-1358

DRE#02057793

GinaDewarRealEstate 915-321-1358

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NMLS ID #253249

Martha C. Gomez

Latina, madre, emprendedora profesional, e inmigrante.

Con un respaldo de más de dos décadas de trayectoria sólida y extensa experiencia en los préstamos hipotecarios, Martha se dedicada a cambiar vidas en nuestra comunidad hispana

Martha es una loan officer (préstamos hipotecarios); trabaja haciendo préstamos para casa y se dedica en detalle a informar los pasos a seguir en la obtención de un préstamo para casa; su éxito es total; su experiencia hace el proceso fácil, rápido y honesto.

Su meta es hacer los sueños de compradores una realidad impactando sus vidas y cambiando su situación financiera para mejor al adquirir su casita.

Sus servicios se extienden en las dos californias ofreciendo una amplia gama de programas y accesorias para la necesidad de cada cliente dentro y fuera del país.

Martha ama el servicio a la comunidad, es alegre y temerosa de Dios.

Senior Loan Officer

REVERSE MORTGAGE

Officer

A reverse mortgage is a type of home loan that allows homeowners to convert a portion of their home equity into cash without having to sell their home. It’s a loan that is secured by the value of your home. Unlike a traditional mortgage where you make monthly payments to the lender, with a reverse mortgage, the lender makes payments to you. This can be useful for retired individuals or older homeowners who want to supplement their income or have a source of funds for various expenses. It’s important to note that the loan needs to be repaid when the homeowner sells the home, moves out, or passes away.

What are the requirements?

• The home must be Owner occupied.

• At least 1 spouse must be 62years+

• The loan can fund directly into a Trust (if any)

• Homeowners Insurance and Property Taxes must be paid outside of escrow (by borrower directly)

Property Types:

• Condominiums are OK if FHA approved.

• MF Homes are OK if the Park is FHA approved.

Income:

• Most borrowers’ quality on Social Security Income only.

• No DTI requirements.

• Fico Scores are not determining factors.

• We can use Residual Income to qualify if regular income is Short. (R.I. are assets in a bank, but do not have to be spent down.)

Payment Options:

• Line of Credit

• Fixed Rate (has the lowest LTV)

• Monthly payments

Expenses:

Out-of-pocket fees are Appraisal, and Reverse Mortgage Counseling Session.

When is the loan repaid or due?

• Not due or payable until the last surviving spouse has passed away.

• When/if borrower decides to move out of the house.

HECM Refinance

• It is possible anytime there is a benefit to the borrower to do so.

Pre-payment Penalties

• None. Ever.

Some potential drawbacks or risks associated with taking out a reverse mortgage include:

1. Accrued interest: With a reverse mortgage, the interest on the loan accumulates over time. This means that the amount owed can significantly increase over the years, potentially reducing the equity in your home.

2. Reduced inheritance: Since a reverse mortgage needs to be repaid when the homeowner sells the home or passes away, it can potentially reduce the amount of inheritance you can leave for your heirs.

3. Borrowing limits: The amount of money you can borrow through a reverse mortgage is often limited based on the value of your home, your age, and other factors. This can restrict your access to funds if you have high expenses or need a large amount of money.

4. Home ownership requirements: With a reverse mortgage, you are still responsible for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance on your home. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to foreclosure.

5. Potential impact on government benefits: The proceeds from a reverse mortgage can affect your eligibility for certain government benefits, such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). It’s important to understand how a reverse mortgage may impact your specific situation.

6. Long-term commitment: If you decide to move out of your home permanently or sell it, you will need to repay the reverse mortgage loan. This can be a constraint if you plan to downsize or relocate in the future.

It’s crucial to carefully consider these potential risks and drawbacks before deciding to take out a reverse mortgage. Consulting with financial advisors or professionals specializing in reverse mortgages can provide further guidance based on your individual circumstances.

Written by Martha C. Gomez, Senior Loan

SHELTER IN MEXICO

In manufacturing, a shelter program refers to a business model where a company sets up operations in a foreign country by partnering with a local manufacturing service provider. The local partner assumes responsibility for managing all aspects of manufacturing, including facilities, labor, and logistics, while the foreign company retains control over design, engineering, quality control, and intellectual property. This type of arrangement allows the foreign company to establish a presence in a new market without having to invest in or operate its own manufacturing facility.

There are several benefits of opting for a shelter program in Mexico. Some of them include:

1. Cost savings: By partnering with a shelter program, foreign companies can save on the costs of setting up their own manufacturing facility in Mexico. The shelter program already has the necessary infrastructure, facilities, and labor in place, reducing the initial investment required.

2. Faster market entry: The shelter program allows foreign companies to quickly establish a presence in the Mexican market without the need for extensive setup time. This can accelerate market entry and enable companies to respond to market demands more rapidly.

3. Local expertise: The shelter program provider has local knowledge and expertise, which can be invaluable for navigating the regulatory landscape, understanding labor laws, and managing logistics. This can help foreign companies

If you are curious about manufacturing in Mexico and think that a Shelter Program is a good fit for you, let us know!

Here in La Revista Binacional, we are building businesses without borders. Send all your inquiries to info@larevistabinacional.com

We are more than happy to help you!

Nearshoring in Mexico refers to the practice of outsourcing business processes or IT services to companies located in Mexico, typically within proximity to the client’s home country.

This approach has gained popularity due to Mexico’s proximity to the United States and other countries and its competitive advantages, such as lower labor costs, a skilled workforce, and a similar time zone.

Nearshoring in Mexico can offer various benefits, such as cost savings, cultural similarities, easier communication, and reduced travel time and expenses. Many companies have successfully leveraged nearshoring in Mexico to improve their operations and be more competitive.

Mexico offers several competitive advantages that make it an attractive location for nearshoring. Some of these advantages include:

1. Cost savings: Reduction of Labor and Operational costs without sacrificing quality.

2. Cultural similarities: Mexico has a rich cultural heritage and shares strong cultural similarities with North American countries. This cultural affinity allows for better collaboration, understanding, and alignment between teams, minimizing potential language and cultural barriers.

3. Time zone proximity: Mexico operates in the Central Time Zone, which is one or two hours off from major US and Canadian cities. This time zone proximity makes real-time communication and collaboration easier between teams, leading to faster decision-making and problem-solving.

4. Reduced travel time and expenses: Compared to offshoring in other countries, nearshoring in Mexico allows for shorter travel distances and reduced travel time and costs. This proximity enables frequent face-to-face meetings, site visits, and team interactions, all of which are essential for effective project management and relationship-building.

5. Intellectual property protection: Mexico has established comprehensive intellectual property laws and enforcement mechanisms, providing a secure environment for companies to protect their proprietary information and trade secrets.

6. Skilled workforce: Mexico boasts a large pool of skilled workers with expertise in various industries, including IT, manufacturing, engineering, call centers, and more. This availability of talent ensures access to a skilled and educated workforce capable of delivering high-quality services.

These competitive advantages make Mexico an attractive destination for nearshoring, allowing companies to achieve cost savings, improve efficiency, and be more competitive in

TODAY NEARSHORING

the global marketplace.

The cultural similarity between Mexico and its neighboring countries contributes to its attractiveness as a nearshoring location in several ways. Firstly, cultural similarity enables easier communication and collaboration between Mexican employees and employees from neighboring countries, as they may share similar values, traditions, and ways of doing business.

Moreover, shared cultural elements can help foster stronger relationships and understanding among team members, leading to better teamwork and cooperation. This can help increase productivity and efficiency in project delivery.

Furthermore, cultural similarity can also facilitate knowledge sharing and transfer across borders. Employees from neighboring countries may already possess relevant industry knowledge and skills, which can be easily leveraged in Mexico’s nearshoring operations. This can enhance the overall talent pool and capabilities available in the country.

Overall, the cultural similarity between Mexico and its neighboring countries helps create a comfortable and familiar environment for nearshore teams, promoting positive work dynamics and enhancing the overall attractiveness of Mexico as a nearshoring destination.

MARIA ADRIANA GUTIERREZSOSA

Representing Latino Excellence in Community Services

Maria Adriana Sosa has spent her career helping the San Diego community with resources and building partnerships that connect organizations to others that can benefit from their services. For the past 30 years, she has worked in community development and counseling with several non-profit organizations that provide social services programs for youth and adults in Southern California.

She is always collaborating with stakeholders, community-based organizations, and funders and has been a focus of her work in the community. She passes resources and opportunities to help others.

She is on several boards with organizations that serve the most vulnerable communities that work tirelessly to help with food insecurity, human trafficking, and helping our reentry community with support, training, and educational resources so they can give back to the communities they hurt. She believes in second

chances and understands trauma can affect our lives in many ways.

“I believe having lived experience and collaborating with people in the community gives you the power to change and see people where they are.”

She doesn’t want to make excuses about why she doesn’t have all the letters behind her name. What she does have is heart and kindness and listening qualities.

“My biggest suggestion to all is do your best every day and treat all people with respect and dignity,” she says.

Her work experience is long, and her accomplishments are many but seeing people keeping HOPE when they are desperate to be heard is the most rewarding. We all have the power to listen.

She currently works for CVS Health,

Aetna – her new role is Field Sales Rep. for MEDICARE. She is excited to work with the senior population because of the knowledge and experience they have, which can help many. Within the last 5 years, she has worked with the Medi-cal/ Medicaid population which gave her many opportunities to create programs that align keeping the Social Determinates of Health in focus.

Maria Adriana attended San Diego State University has her degree in Human Resources and currently working on a degree in Public Health. She graduated from the MANA Leadership Training Program and was a COVID-19 contact tracing for 12 months. Her passion and purpose for her community and community health workers speak for herself and the relationships she has built.

In her leisure time, she enjoys traveling, reading, spending time with her family, and volunteering. She has four adult children and two grandchildren and is a San Diego Native born and raised in North Park.

For more information, please feel free to contact her:

LA CATRINA ANDANTE

At the beginning of the 20th century, Jose Guadalupe Posada, a Mexican cartoonist, gave Mexico, Hispanics, and humanity a drawing of death turned into a woman. What we know today as La Catrina is born from his talent and has become the symbol of death festivities everywhere.

Many years later, at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, Livette Ruvalcaba, a young woman who was Miss Jalisco, gives life to LA CATRINA ANDANTE.

La Catrina Andante, an idea that was born in the city of Los Angeles, is now one of the most recognized icons in sporting and social events around the world. Livette, La Catrina Andante, sought with the idea of her to promote the culture of her native Mexico, carrying the beauty that death can have if it is done with elegance.

La Catrina Andante has been invited to important events, especially soccer matches in the Mexican and Latin American leagues, without also ruling out that she has participated in NFL games and international events.

She is an ambassador of Mexico, dressed in typical Mexican costumes, from charro suit to china poblana. Her flower crowns or her charro sombrero are the perfect frame for her artistically made-up face of beautiful death.

An intense promoter of tourism, gastronomy, beaches, community, and soccer in Mexico, La Catrina Andante inspires everyone who meets her.

Beneath all the makeup (which takes over 3 hours to apply), is a beautiful young woman who has inspired today’s fashion designers; a former beauty queen from her home state of Jalisco where in 2012; and a soccer fan, especially ATLAS, which inspired her to have her Podcast “La Rojinegra” reaching all soccer fans in many parts of the world. La Catrina Andante lives in Los Angeles, California, and is another example of what it is to be LATINO EXCELLENCE.

Follow her on her social media.

Instagram: @lacatrinaandante

Facebook: La Catrina Andante

TikTok: @lacatrinaandante

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Remembering The Dead With A DO-IT-YOURSELF Shrine

The Day of the Dead is a celebration from ancient times in Mexico where families get together and create a shrine for their deceased loved ones.

Disney made a whole production with COCO, where kids of all ages and all over the world got to experience through the eyes of a beautifully animated story the afterworld when you die.

Legend says that if you do not remember your loved ones when they die, they will eventually stop existing in every form, including the afterlife.

In southern parts of Mexico, altars are designed for each person that has died. It is celebrated every November 2nd, and it is a day where families gather to welcome back the dead, eat with their spirits among us and have a perfect excuse to get together.

Do you want to celebrate it this year? For an altar for Day of the Dead, you will need several key elements:

1. Picture Frames: Display photographs of loved ones who have passed away. These can be family members, friends, or even pets.

2. Marigolds: These vibrant orange flowers are believed to attract the souls of the deceased to the altar. You can use fresh marigolds or create paper versions of the flowers.

3. Candles: Light candles to guide and welcome the spirits. Traditionally, these are votive candles, but you can also use tea lights or any candles that are safe to burn.

4. Calaveras: These are sugar skulls, which are colorful and intricately decorated representations of skulls. They symbolize the departed souls and can be made from sugar, clay, or other materials. Look for them in your local Mexican markets or bakeries.

5. Food and Drinks: Prepare the favorite food and drinks of your loved ones as an offering. This can include their preferred dishes, fruits, sweets, and even alcoholic beverages. PAN DE MUERTO is also a very popular sweet bread that families can share.

6. Water: Place a bowl of water on the altar to quench the thirst of the spirits after their long journey.

7. Papel Picado: These are colorful tissue paper banners with intricate cut-out designs. Hang them above the altar to add a festive touch.

8. Personal Items: Include personal belongings of your loved ones, such as clothing, jewelry, or other items that hold sentimental value.

Remember, an altar for Day of the Dead is meant to be a personal and meaningful tribute. Feel free to add any additional items that hold significance for you and your loved ones.

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Legends of Terror: Spine-Chilling Stories from Mexico

The Devil’s Casino (State of Sonora)

In the city of Hermosillo, the New Year’s Eve dance took place on December 31, 1950. Linda, a 16-year-old girl, ran away from her house without permission to attend the dance that her parents had denied her.

Linda, looking for the love of her life among all the handsome young men who would attend, arrived at the casino dressed in splendor. She refused to dance with everyone until a handsome young man approached her. He was finely dressed, and his look mesmerized her.

That mysterious man attracted her with a penetrating gaze. When dancing, Linda felt the young man’s hand burning her dress. Linda was afraid. Something wasn’t right. She was sweating anxiously, and she felt like she was suffocating.

A chill took over her body, and she could see that the handsome young man had a crow’s foot and a cow’s hoof. Linda knew that she had been dancing with the devil all night.

The devil then burst out laughing, discovering his identity, and burning the casino with everyone inside. Many managed to escape, but others vanished in flames, including Linda, who knew she was paying for disobeying her parents.

Currently, you can visit the ruins of the Casino del Diablo. Young people gather to practice witchcraft and play Ouija. They say you can smell sulfur when the wind blows, and evil energies follow.

Moral: If you go without permission to a party, you may end up in the arms of the lord of eternal hell.

The Trucker of La Rumorosa (State Of Baja California)

Once upon a time, there was a trucker in the Sierra de la Rumorosa in Baja California, who lost his life on this dangerous road. The trucker was hurrying to his family in Mexicali because his child was about to be born. Due to his rush, he lost control of his truck, which overturned, falling onto the rocks. The man did not die instantly, he wandered the road for three days, but no one helped him, and he died.

Sometime later, a young man was stopped on the road by an injured man with torn clothes. He asked him for help to deliver money to his wife in Mexicali. He gave him an envelope with cash and a letter. When the young man went up, he lost track of the man. In Mexicali, the lady no longer lived at her home, and they gave her a new address upon arrival. Finally, the young man arrived at the new address and knocked on the door.

It opens, and a lady with a 5-year-old child is in her arms. The young man gives her the money and the letter and tells her it is from a man in La Rumorosa.

The lady faints, and when she wakes up, she tells the young man that her husband passed away five years ago.

Legend has it that truckers keep arriving with money for the lady, and everyone is shocked when they find out that it was the ghost of the trailer driver who sent them.

It is also said that all those who keep the money instead of looking for the woman will die tragically.

Moral: If they give you money to deliver, deliver it.

Pascualita

(State of Chihuahua)

The Esparza family had a store called La Popular in the very center of the Chihuahua state capital. Pascualita was the daughter of the Esparza family.

Pascualita was a beautiful young woman with physical attributes that drove all the young men to fall in love with her followed. She was famous for her beauty in the city of Chihuahua.

Finally, one day she agrees to get married, and on the very day of the wedding, a scorpion stings her, and she dies. Mrs. Esparza, Pascualita’s mother, unable to bear losing her daughter, decides to fake the burial and embalm her daughter.

Not only that, but Mrs. Esparza decides to pass off the embalmed corpse as a mannequin which she places in the storefront’s window. She dresses her as a bride, and to everyone’s amazement, the resemblance of the mannequin to Pascualita is impressive.

They say that the mannequin has a lifelike look and looks like a real person—the details of her hands, nails, and fingers that even seem to have fingerprints impress everyone.

Others say they have seen her crying and even moving. Many fear her, but the women who are going to get married say that it brings them good luck if they wear the dress she

is wearing, so the orders for said dress are very popular.

Today Pascualita can be seen in her showcase window, with her white dress and features so human that they cause chills to those in front of her. They say that at night she comes to life and that the store employees assure us that her material is not from a mannequin but something they cannot explain.

Moral: Do not embalm the bodies. Bury them so they can rest in peace.

When was the first time you heard about AI? For the more dated among us, you may think of Agent Smith from The Matrix or perhaps The Terminator. And for the space aficionados among us, HAL 9000 from the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey comes to mind.

AI has been the fuel of many sci-fi movies and thrillers over the decades. But 2023 has been the year of AI. Most of us probably don’t even realize just how far-reaching AI has become. If you use TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, or Netflix, you have used some form of AI. More recently, AI has stormed onto the entertainment scene guns-ablazin’.

Did you know that Warner Bros uses an AI tool called Cinelytic to predict the boxoffice success of its movies?

Many modern games integrate AI features to create more immersive gameplay and experiences. AI chatbots and AI voices have also become an inevitable reality for social media users. Technology has become so advanced that it’s almost impossible to distinguish between a real human voice

and an AI-generated one. Some people have even trained AI to make their voices sound like Morgan Freeman and David Attenborough!

The movie industry has not been left behind, either. AI algorithms are used to simulate massive explosions and natural disasters, greatly streamlining a process that would take uncountable thousands of rendering hours.

One of the most recent examples of AI being used in the mainstream entertainment industry is the AI-generated introduction of the Marvel series Secret Invasion. When people discovered that AI made the intro, it created a severe backlash, especially among visual effects artists. Another popular movie in which AI was incorporated was the 2022 film Everything Everywhere All At Once.

Artists and musicians must now compete with artificially generated content too.

AI models have become so powerful that users can prompt an AI to create songs, photographs, and videos. It can even create art pieces that mimic a particular

artist, or that fall into a specific genre. For example, I can tell the DALL-E powered Image Creator: “Paint me a painting of the 1969 moon landing in Leonardo Davinci’s style”. And ‘Hey Presto’! My very own pièce de résistance!

AI tools like DALL-E and OpenAI’s ChatGPT have made AI-generated content commonplace. Some creators, however, are concerned that they will soon become obsolete, given the ever-increasing power of AI-driven tools. Recently, there has been a massive plague of so-called “cash-cow” YouTube channels, where users will feed an AI content scraped from large channels’ videos, tell it to slightly modify the content to avoid copyright strikes, use AI-generated imagery, or even use footage from the original creator without permission, upload it to YouTube, and profit off of the views.

AI, in its many forms, is here to stay. How exactly things will play out for stakeholders in the entertainment industry is yet to be seen. But one thing is certain: the age of AI is upon us. Get on the wagon, or get left behind! PS This article was not written by AI., 100% created by a human.

ARE INFLUENCERS TAKING OVER HOLLYWOOD?

Influencers have certainly gained significant influence and presence in the entertainment industry, including Hollywood. With the rise of social media platforms, influencers have become powerful content creators and have amassed large followers. This has led to opportunities for collaborations with traditional actors, actresses, and filmmakers. However, it’s important to note that the traditional structure of Hollywood remains intact, with established actors and actresses continuing to play crucial roles in the industry. So, while influencers may have a growing presence, they have not completely taken over Hollywood.

The rise of influencers has disrupted the traditional hierarchy and power dynamics within the Hollywood industry. Influencers, with their large social media followings and online presence, have gained significant influence and bargaining power. They can create their own content and connect directly with their audience, bypassing the need for traditional distribution channels and gatekeepers.

This has led to a shift in the balance of power, as influencers now can negotiate deals and collaborate with traditional actors, actresses, and filmmakers. They bring their own loyal fanbase and can attract attention and investment to projects. As a result, we often see influencers starring in movies and TV shows, creating their own production companies, and even becoming producers themselves.

This has also affected the traditional studio system, as influencers can now independently produce and distribute their content through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. They have become creators and entrepreneurs, challenging the established structures of Hollywood.

However, it’s important to note that the traditional structure of Hollywood remains intact, with established actors and actresses continuing to play crucial roles in the industry. While influencers may have a growing presence,

they have not completely taken over Hollywood. The industry is constantly evolving and adapting to these changes, and it will be interesting to see how the dynamics continue to shift in the future.

Established actors and actresses may need to adapt and collaborate with influencers to stay relevant and maintain their status. This could lead to a more dynamic and diverse talent pool in the industry.

Overall, while the long-term effects are uncertain, the influence of influencers could bring about both positive and potentially disruptive changes to the Hollywood industry. It will be interesting to see how the industry adapts and evolves in response to this growing influence.

INFLUENCERS THAT HAVE STARTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND MADE THEIR WAY INTO ACTING:

1. Addison Rae

2. Jack Martin

3. Charlie D’Amelio

4. King Bach

5. Noah Beck

6. Liza Koshy

7. Cameron Dallas

8. Grace Helbig

The boom of Foreign Novelas and their consumption by Latina moms

Novelas (or formally telenovelas) have become one of the most iconic and classic elements of Latin American culture. Anyone who says that their mother, grandmother, or aunt did not watch a novela is simply lying. Despite their traditional sense, soap operas have faced a unique evolution from being produced in Latin America to being imported. Why is this happening? What is the background behind this change in the consumption of moms? Here we will find out everything!

What’s changing in telenovelas?

If you’ve turned on the TV lately, you’ve undoubtedly come across countless commercials about Turkish, Arab, or simply foreign soap operas. If we ponder this, we will see that easily, on TV, there are 3 foreign soap operas for 1 Latin one. This is one of the most evident signs that everything is changing.

So we can relate that the change in the consumption of novelas by Latina moms is caused by the change in programming. That is, those who used to watch telenovelas now have to

watch foreign novelas because of the changes made by the TV stations. In other words, they have no choice. But why were Latin soap operas replaced by foreign ones?

According to different consultants, the production cost is perhaps one reason for these changes. Television companies have found it more profitable to pay for the rights of a foreign novela than to create their own. This is due to all that it entails regarding cast, locations, production, etc.

Another reason that has been found in the plots of the novelas themselves. In Latin American countries like Mexico, the plots are usually the same. A forbidden love, the rich man and the poor woman, oppression, the lost son, etc. They always fall into the same cliché, something we don’t see abroad because their stories are usually fresher.

The change in digital media is another big explanation behind moms watching foreign novelas. Now, thanks

to streaming services, Latina moms have more content available to watch. If we add to this the eye-catching plots, we can now understand why this change is happening!

Lastly, the fact that TV stations always rebroadcast the same Latin or Mexican soap operas from 20 or 30 years ago also contributes to this phenomenon. People are bored of always watching the same thing, so they choose to watch new or more recent content.

The significance of this change for popular culture

We can draw several conclusions from this change in the consumption habits of Latina moms and soap operas. One of them is that it seems that TV networks have been right about these changes.

Globalization, the need for new experiences, and the rejection of rehashes are other conclusions that are on the table. Whichever conclusion you choose, it is a fact that imported novelas are here to stay.

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¡VIVA LA TORTILLA, VIVA MEXICO!

The history of the corn tortilla is deeply rooted in the pre-Columbian cultures of Mesoamerica, particularly in regions like Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Corn, or maize, was a staple crop for these civilizations and played a significant role in their societies and diets. Here is an overview of the history of the corn tortilla: Domestication of Maize: Maize is believed to have been domesticated around 9,000 years ago in southern Mexico from a wild grass called teosinte. Over time, the cultivation of maize spread throughout Mesoamerica, becoming a vital part of the agricultural practices in various societies.

Ancient Civilizations: Civilizations such as the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec, which thrived between 1200 BCE and 1521 CE, relied heavily on maize as a dietary staple. These cultures developed various techniques for processing maize, including the nixtamalization process.

Nixtamalization: The nixtamalization process involves soaking maize in an alkaline solution, typically lime water, which softens the corn and makes its nutrients more bioavailable. This process not only improved the nutritional value of maize but also made it easier to grind the kernels into masa, the dough used to make tortillas.

Tortilla Making: The ancient Mesoamericans would grind the soaked maize into masa using stone grinding tools called metates and mano. They would then shape the masa into flat, round discs and cook them on hot clay griddles or comals.

Spanish Influence: When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mesoamerica in the 16th century, they encountered the indigenous peoples making and consuming tortillas. The Spanish adopted the use of corn in their own diet, and tortillas became an integral part of their culinary traditions as well.

Modern Times: With the introduction of industrial milling and processing techniques, tortilla-making underwent changes, and commercial production of tortillas became more widespread. In some areas, wheat flour tortillas gained popularity, but corn tortillas remain a fundamental element of Mesoamerican cuisine.

Today, corn tortillas are still a staple food in many Latin American countries and are enjoyed worldwide. This September, lets celebrate the Mexican Independence with a corn tortilla and all its forms:

1. If you put any type of food in them, like shredded beef or stew, it becomes a TACO

2. If you fry it, it becomes a TACO DORADO

3. But, if that taco is rolled and then fried, it becomes a FLAUTA

4. If instead of shredded beef or stew you put cheese in it, it is a QUESADILLA

5. But if you fry the quesadilla and splash it with green salsa and melt it in the oven with cheese, it becomes ENCHILADAS SUIZAS

6. But if you cut that tortilla into strips, then fry and top with cheese and chile salsa, it becomes CHILAQUILES

7. But if instead of chile salsa you smother it with refried beans, it becomes ENFRIJOLADAS

8. Or if it is smothered in tomato sauce, it is now ENTOMATADAS

9. If you cut a tortilla in triangles and fry them, they are now TOTOPOS good for NACHOS

10. But if you fry them whole and top them with meat, cheese, salsa, and cream, it is now a TOSTADA

A popular favorite? Warm tortilla with butter, salt and rolled up. Comfort food for sure!

Viva Mexico and its cuisine. Simple yet mesmerizing flavors, aroma and magically addictive.

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OLGA TRUJILLO

Financial Services Professional

CA Lic. #0H22021

New York Life Insurance Company

4365 Executive Drive, Suite 800 San Diego, CA 92121

619-894-2798

www.newyorklife.com/agent/otrujillo

Sobre mí:

Ofrezco seguros de vida como estrategia para proveer servicios financieros y resolver situaciones, y al mismo tiempo proteger tu negocio, familia, y legado. Con 30 años de experiencia en el area de finanzas, aquí estoy para ayudarte, proveer educación e información.

The offering documents (policies, contracts, etc.) for products from New York Life and its subsidiaries are available only in English. In the event of a dispute, the provisions in the policies and contracts will prevail. Los documentos (pólizas, contratos) que hagan referencia a todo producto de New York Life y sus subsidiarias están disponibles solo en inglés. En caso de cualquier discrepancia con la traducción, las disposiciones en las pólizas y contratos en inglés prevalecerán.

ALLEVIATE STRESS AT WORK

Written by Michele Dewar, M.D.

There are several relaxation techniques and practices that can help alleviate stress during work hours. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Deep Breathing Exercises: Take a moment to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this several times to calm your mind and body.

2. Mindfulness Meditation: Set aside a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on the present moment. Pay attention to your breath, bodily sensations, and any thoughts or emotions that arise without judgment.

3. Stretching and Physical Activity: Incorporate simple stretching exercises or short walks into your work routine. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress and improve your mood.

4. Time Management Techniques: Prioritize your tasks and break them down into smaller, manageable chunks. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (working in focused bursts with short breaks) to stay productive

while avoiding burnout.

5. Practicing Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on things you are grateful for. This can shift your focus towards positive aspects of your work and life, reducing stress levels.

6. Listening to Music: Listen to calming or uplifting music that helps you relax and destress. Create a playlist of your favorite songs or try out instrumental tracks specifically designed for relaxation.

Remember, everyone is different, so it‘s important to experiment and find what works best for you. Incorporating these techniques into your work routine can help promote a more positive and stress-free environment.

If stress becomes a life-threatening situation at work, do not hesitate to have a talk with your supervisors. I am sure you can come to an agreement that will benefit both sides.

MOVEMBER

NO SHAVE NOVEMBER

No Shave November, also known as Movember, is an annual event where men grow out their facial hair during the month of November to raise awareness and funds for various men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. The goal is to spark conversations about these important issues and encourage men to take proactive steps for their own health and well-being. Many participants also use this opportunity to donate the money they would typically spend on grooming products to charitable organizations.There are several ways to encourage friends and family to participate in Movember and support the cause:

1. Start by talking openly about men’s health issues and the importance of raising awareness. Share personal stories or statistics to highlight the significance of the cause.

2. Invite your friends and family to join you in participating in Movember. Explain how it can be a fun and meaningful experience to grow mustaches or engage in other fundraising activities together.

3. Create a team or group for Movember and invite your friends and family to join. This way, you can support each other throughout the month and collectively raise more funds and awareness.

4. Share information and resources about Movember through social media, email, or other communication channels. This can include links to the official website, fundraising tips, and updates on your own progress.

5. Organize events or activities related to Movember.

This can be a charity run, a fundraising party, or even a virtual event where participants can come together to discuss men’s health issues.

6. Offer incentives or rewards for those who participate and fundraise. It could be as simple as giving shoutouts or small prizes to the top fundraisers within your circle.

7. Lead by example. Show your commitment to the cause by actively participating and sharing your own experiences. This can inspire others to get involved and support the cause as well.

Remember to be supportive and understanding if some individuals are unable to participate due to personal reasons. The goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels encouraged to make a difference in their own way.

Break-through Weight Loss Medications Can Have Heart Benefits But Only If Used Correctly

By Dr. Hassan Kafri

Anti-obesity medications are an important tool for those who require a medically-guided approach to weight loss. But, according to renowned cardiologist Dr. Kafri should always be used in combination with the adoption of healthy habits. Kafri Heart and Vascular has partnered with Enara Health to make adopting those healthy habits easier than ever.

Over the last decade, the use of anti-obesity medications has seen a significant increase. According to PubMed, their use has more than doubled from 2010 to 2019. Even with this steady rise, a new generation of these types of medications has sparked new hype and media attention.

As a cardiologist, I want my patients to avoid major cardiovascular disease before they develop and cause lasting damage. Helping patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight and body composition is absolutely vital to my mission. Many of my patients have not been able to find success through traditional methods and are greatly helped by these medications.

I believe the benefits of these medications are obvious and their rise in popularity is well-deserved. These medications have been shown to reduce heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications by anywhere between 15% and 27% for patients with diabetes. A larger trial, called SELECT, may show that even patients with obesity but without diabetes may also receive the same benefits.

Semaglutide, also known by brand names, Wegovy and/or Ozempic, helped patients lose an average of 14.9% of weight, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group, in a study released by the New England Journal of Medicine. Other studies of similar medications and protocols have shown similarly impressive results while being far less invasive than other surgical interventions.

For many years, a pill to treat obesity has been portrayed in popular culture as a pharmaceutical holy grail. Unfortunately, the human body is not so simple. Treating obesity is not the same thing as treating a headache or a sinus infection, and I believe that a hands-on, medically-led approach will be needed for patients to see immediate results as well as lifelong benefits.

In my practice, I have witnessed too many patients who have taken a failed quick-fix approach; they get a prescription from their doctor (or worse, an online prescriber) and only stay on the medications for two or three months. This unfortunate approach leaves the patient more resistant to future medications and they typically regain weight.

As powerful and useful as anti-obesity medications are, they do not function properly as a long-term weight-loss solution if they are not combined with the development of healthy habits.

This truth has led me to a very exciting partnership with Enara Health. They believe, as I do, that the best way for patients to treat obesity is by taking a personal and personalized approach.

In my partnership with Enara, I am helping their team develop and refine a robust program so patients can develop healthy habits as a central component of their heart health journey. This way, patients can take full advantage of the benefits of any anti-obesity medications they may need in a way that helps reduce heart and stroke risk. Through our partnerships, patients have access to behavioral, nutrition, and exercise coaches and we are able to provide custom and personalized plans that take into consideration each person’s heart and metabolic risk.

Unlike the situation I detailed above where patients hurried themselves into a medication regime and quickly stopped with little to no ongoing lifestyle guidance from their prescribing physician, Enara provides total wrap-around support. Again, they act as the patient’s “weight loss wingman.” This is not just a convenient service or a nice idea. This approach is central to creating immediate successes (following through on the personalized plan, overcoming emotional roadblocks, seeing the number on the scale move in the right direction) and a long-term and lasting transformation (weaning off anti-obesity medications, healthy habit formation, avoidance of cardiovascular diseases, maintenance of ideal weight and composition) leading to a better, healthier, and longer life.

So far, Enara and I are just fifteen months into our partnership, but we are already seeing very positive results. In that short amount of time, those patients who have used anti-obesity medications under our guidance (again, with a strong emphasis on adopting healthy habits alongside the use of anti-obesity medications) have seen an average weight loss of over 15%. To put that into perspective, if a patient began working with us at a weight of 300 pounds, they would have lost 45 pounds in less than a year-and-a-half.

Plus, since the Enara Health program features lifestyle coaching, adaptive support, and continual guidance from health and wellness professionals, those who adopt healthy habits are able to completely transition off their anti-obesity medications within one to two years.

At some point, at some level, nearly everyone struggles to achieve and/or maintain a healthy weight. As a practicing cardiologist, I understand the negative impacts of obesity that goes untreated and unchanged for too long. It is my responsibility to take advantage of every tool available to me, including anti-obesity medications. Now, I have seen and the research makes clear that the best approach to utilizing these medications is to combine their use with meaningful lifestyle change through the adoption of healthy habits--including proper nutrition and adequate exercise.

Through my partnership with Enara Health and the program we have created, I believe more people will have access to what is needed to experience a lifelong transformation.

I am proud of what we have made and am excited to see the good it will do.

Kafri Heart and Vascular Clinic is a state-ofthe-art comprehensive cardiac and vascular center dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and preventing cardiovascular disease in the greater San Diego community since July 2009. We are committed to providing accessible, compassionate, and personalized care that goes beyond the exam room to help patients lead happy and healthy lives. To learn more, please visit www.kafri.com

Enara Health is a US-based digital health company that is building a data-driven platform and network to scale obesity treatment. Enara’s platform helps clinics and medical groups launch, manage, and staff insurance-covered cardiometabolic and obesity programs. By combining mobile technology with health care visits and providing patients with personalized physician-driven medical weight loss programs, Enara Health routinely helps patients lose—and keep off—more than 15% of their baseline weight.

Learn more about Enara Health by visiting enarahealth.com.

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DR. MARK SANCHEZ A LEADER IN EDUCATION

Dr. Mark Sanchez’s experience includes over twenty years in community college leadership, teaching and instruction, and workforce development. His passion for social justice is demonstrated throughout his career. In his career in California community college leadership, he has been successful in the development and implementation of comprehensive race-conscious-equity-focused instruction, student services, and online programs designed to increase student access and success, student outreach, and student personal development.

At the previous colleges in which he served, Dr. Sanchez worked collectively with his Student Life and Leadership team to bring students from diverse backgrounds together to engage in cross-cultural learning and engagement. Prior to beginning his Presidency at Southwestern College, Dr. Sanchez was the Assistant Superintendent/Vice-President of Student Success and Support Programs at Cuesta College, also served as the Dean of Student Affairs, Counseling at Hartnell College; Dean of Student Services, Counseling at Fresno City College; and Director of Student Support Programs at San Jose Evergreen Valley College. He also teaches university graduate courses online (asynchronous) in the Master of Education Program at Brandman University.

Prior to beginning his profession in postsecondary leadership, Dr. Sanchez worked in developing educational and career programs at the Fresno

County Workforce Development Board and career training programs funded by the San Diego Workforce Partnership. Dr. Sanchez is a collaborative leader who works effectively with constituent groups on campus, businesses, and community-based partners.

He is a strong supporter of whole-person development and services that assist college students with the skills they need to complete their educational, career, and personal goals. Among these services are access to counseling, financial aid, academic support, and mental health/wellness coaching for students. Throughout his career, Dr. Sanchez has worked with excellent teams of college faculty, staff, students, and administrators to expand the overall availability of equity-focused programs on college campuses. Additionally, he has experience in fiscal management with both shortterm and long-term fiscal planning. Dr. Sanchez is a native of San Diego, CA, and began his college career as a student at Southwestern College.

Upon graduating from Southwestern College with an Associate’s Degree in General Studies, Dr. Sanchez went on to complete his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA. Master of Arts in Education Administration with Distinction and Doctorate in Educational Leadership both from California State University, Fresno. Dr. Sanchez knows San Diego and the South Bay well and is proud of his roots growing up in the region.

by Nicolas Andreu

Fall is here, which means that one of the most exciting times of the year is upon us as the National Football League is back.

Football and fall are the perfect pairing for sports fans as most of the season is played during fall. The season kicks off on September 7th as the reigning Super Bowl Champions Kansas City Chiefs face

There are many teams that have a chance to win the Super Bowl, but they’ll have to play a 17-game schedule that is full of upsets and unpredictability. The chaos and unpredictability of the league make every game a must-watch as the stakes are always on the line. This is one of the reasons why NFL games are the most-watched

The Super Bowl for the 2023 season is on February 11, 2024, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada which will be the first time that Vegas hosts the big game.

The teams that have the best chance of winning the Super Bowl this year are the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, and the San Francisco

These teams all made the playoffs last year and the Philadelphia Eagles reached the Super Bowl falling short to Kansas City. Every year there are dark horses that emerge and

Football. Football. Football. NFL SEASON IS BACK!

Teams to look out for this year are the Seattle Seahawks, Los Angeles Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, and Dallas Cowboys.

My prediction for who wins the Super Bowl this season is the San Francisco 49ers beating the Buffalo Bills 24-17 as San Francisco

Before we get to who wins the Super Bowl, we still need to play a season of football which will be full of surprises that will surely

The 2023 NFL season is here, and it will be better than ever before!

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The art of failure; learning from setbacks.

Failure. Just the word alone evokes negativity and fear. We let it define us, shaping our entire identity. It holds us back from pursuing our dreams and ambitions. But what if I told you that failure doesn’t actually exist? What if setbacks were just steppingstones to greatness?

I’ve learned this firsthand throughout my life. Instead of seeing failure, I see setbacks. And I’ve made failing fun. Yes, you heard that right. Those who know me would never call me a failure. In fact, by most people’s standards, I’m a success. Because I understand that setbacks are a natural part of life, impossible to avoid, especially when you are pursuing a major goal and are out of your comfort zone. Sure, setbacks can be discouraging. They can make us hesitant to try again. But I’ve discovered the key to overcoming them. It’s not about dwelling on what went wrong or secondguessing myself. It’s about accepting the outcome and using it as a learning experience. I maintain a positive attitude, focusing on future outcomes rather than dwelling on the past. I seek support from loved ones and mentors, not keep it bottled inside, and I remind myself to be flexible and adapt. By adopting this proactive and positive mindset, setbacks become

FLO THE BUSINESSMAN

opportunities for growth and improvement. Believe me; I’ve had my fair share of setbacks. I’ve lost millions of dollars, businesses that never took off, and even friends along the way. But I refuse to call any of it a failure because the real failure is never trying at all. In fact, two of my biggest setbacks were the best things that happened to me. It isn’t easy to see it at that time.

The first example, I had just gotten out of the military and had planned to flip real estate, meaning buying undervalued houses, fixing them, and selling them for major profits. Unfortunately for me, I bought at the wrong time in 2008, and my house was quickly underwater. Like many setbacks, it’s difficult to find meaning while you’re going through it. But in actuality, that setback allowed me to gain experience in problemsolving that has helped me out in business (I still own that property, by the way).

The second example, for seven years, I prepared my business to pursue a 32 billion dollar government contract that is only completed every ten years. The government was only going to select six companies to share this award. Over two hundred companies applied, and we came in seventh. That setback taught me that in order to reach that level of business; it requires a different network and lobbyist group. I wish it wasn’t the case, but it’s a reality.

There are many more I can list, but I think you get the point. So, let’s reframe setbacks as opportunities. Let’s build resilience and keep progressing towards our goals. Setbacks are not failures; they are steppingstones on our path to greatness. Embrace them, learn from them, and never stop trying.

• Consulting Services: Expertise in Government Contracts, Sales, Operations, and Strategic Business Planning to enhance your organization’s performance.

• (M&A) Merges and Acquisitions: Receive comprehensive support for divesting a portion or all of your business, including meticulous business evaluation.

• Strategic Partnership: Explore opportunities to join the esteemed entrepreneur community through expert guidance.

• Capital Partner: Forge a valuable partnership and secure essential financial resources for your entrepreneurial endeavors.

IS HOMESCHOOLING A GOOD IDEA?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to whether homeschooling is recommended or not, as it depends on various factors such as the individual child’s needs and learning style, the resources available for homeschooling, and the support system in place. Some families find homeschooling to be a great option as it allows for personalized education and flexibility. However, it also comes with its own challenges, such as ensuring social interaction and providing a well-rounded education. It is important to thoroughly research and consider all aspects before deciding about homeschooling.

Families can ensure a strong support system for homeschooling by following these steps:

1. Understand your child’s individual needs and learning style: Take the time to observe and understand how your child learns best. By understanding their learning style, you can tailor your teaching methods accordingly.

2. Set clear academic goals: Set specific academic goals for your child and make sure they are realistic and achievable. This will help you stay on track and help you see if your child is making progress in their education.

3. Create a structured routine: Establish a daily routine that includes dedicated study time, breaks, and other activities. Having a structured routine helps children maintain discipline and consistency in their learning.

4. Join homeschooling communities and support groups: Connect with other homeschooling families in your area through local homeschooling groups or online communities. This will allow you to share experiences, ideas, and resources and provide opportunities for your child to interact with other homeschooled children.

5. Use online resources: Platforms and resources are available for homeschooling families. These resources can provide curriculum options, lesson plans, educational games, and forums for parents to connect and seek advice.

6. Seek professional guidance: Consider consulting with educational consultants or hiring tutors who specialize in homeschooling. They can provide guidance, support, and additional resources to help meet your child’s specific needs.

7. Encourage social interaction: Homeschooling should not isolate your child from social interactions. Look for local homeschooling groups or engage in extracurricular activities and community programs where your child can interact with kids.

8. Regularly evaluate progress: Monitor your child’s progress and regularly assess their academic development. This will help you identify any areas that need extra attention and make necessary adjustments to their homeschooling

Remember, creating a strong support system for homeschooling requires open communication, patience, and flexibility. It’s important to adapt your approach as you learn what works best for your child and their individual needs.

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CÓMO SONREÍRLE A LA VIDA

Por: Sylvia Villaseñor-Ortiz, MSW, LCSW

Muchos de nosotros pasamos la vida entera buscando la felicidad y la mayoría de las veces sin encontrarla. ¿Porqué será que entre más la buscamos más difícil nos es encontrarla, vivirla y gozar de ella plenamente?

¿Qué pensarías si te dijera que tu destino amoroso, éxito financiero, tu estado de salud tanto físico y mental depende de cómo vives la vida cotidiana?

En efecto, tu estado de ánimo y tu actitud tienen mucho que ver en cómo manejas la rutina de tu vida, tus pensamientos, tus emociones y tu comportamiento. Lo mas probable es que si estas preocupado, molesto o frustrado esta idea es lo que transmites. Si te sientes lleno de gozo, ahínco y bienestar emocional de igual forma es lo que otros perciben de tu persona.

Ahora te preguntarás, ¿cómo es que nuestros juicios tanto positivos como negativos tengan tanto que ver con nuestro estilo de vida y forma de ser percibido?

Nuestros pensamientos, erróneos o no, son energía que emiten vibraciones de varias direcciones a nuestro cerebro. Imagínate que lanzas una piedra a un lago tranquilo a la fuerza de esta al tocar el agua producirá una reacción en cadena.

Así mismo ocurre con tus pensamientos. Buenas o malas experiencias vividas están siendo conectadas con nuestra mente constantemente.

Tu atraes en tu vida personas, situaciones y circunstancias que están en la misma vibración con las ideas que dominan tu mente.

¡Es por eso por lo que por lo general las personas con ideas negativas atraen la apatía y las personas

con una actitud positiva atraen el buen ánimo y lo mejor de la vida! Es imposible emitir ambos estados de ánimo a la vez.

¿Te das cuenta? Tu tienes la habilidad de llenar tu mente con pensamientos bonitos y acentuar lo positivo de las experiencias vividas.

Los estudios demuestran que si nos proponemos dejar lo negativo de las experiencias vividas atrás y acomodar nuevas experiencias en su lugar, donde podamos sonreír y que nos llenen de felicidad.

Puede ser algo tan sencillo como un paseo en la playa, practicar algún deporte, cantar, bailar, en fin, actividades que nos relajan y nos hagan sentir bien.

Por lo tanto, comienza a creer que eres un ser afortunado y amado; que tienes salud y mucho por vivir. Aunque no sea así totalmente, verás que el mundo responderá a tus vibraciones

y manifestará lo que llevas en tu consciente.

Puedes comenzar el día con afirmaciones positivas, por ejemplo: “Hoy será un día tranquilo puesto que terminé mis tareas”.

“Hoy me prometo pasar un día agradable con mis hijos” “Hoy seré más cariñosa con mi pareja”.

¡Recuerda, lo prometido es deuda! Las afirmaciones se deben de poner en práctica diariamente. Entre más practiquemos las intenciones deseadas, será más fácil para la mente adaptar los nuevos comportamientos. No olvides que vida solo hay una y que vivimos en un mundo hermoso lleno de oportunidades; y que, si sonríes al a vida, ¡la vida te sonreirá a TI!

Heart Failure Specialist

Board Certified: Cardiovascular Diseases, Nuclear Cardiology, Echocardiography, Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation

Board Certified: Interventional Cardiology, Cardiovascular Diseases, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography, Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation

Board Certified: Cardiovascular Diseases, Nuclear Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography, Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation

HEART AND WELLNESS CENTER

TAKING CARE OF YOUR HEART

In the bustling city of San Diego, where the ocean breeze meets urban sophistication, stands a beacon of heart health and comprehensive wellness - the Heart and Wellness Center. As a premier cardiology clinic, we have redefined excellence in patient care, setting new standards for innovation, patient-centered focus, and accessibility. In this article, we delve into the three core characteristics that distinguish us as the best cardiology clinic in San Diego.

Nancy Ly, M.D.

Mariusz Wysoczanski, M.D., FACC

Steven J. Rough, M.D.

Raul Oviedo, M.D. Cardiac Electrophysiology Specialist

Specialized in Cardiac Arrhythmias

Specialized in Device Implants

Board Certified: Cardiovascular Diseases, Cardiac CT Interpretation

1. EMBRACING DIVERSITY

James Kim, M.D. Chair of Cardiology at Sharp, Board Certified: Cardiovascular Diseases, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography

At the Heart and Wellness Center, we recognize that effective healthcare goes beyond medical expertise. Our commitment to linguistic diversity ensures that language is never a barrier to receiving quality cardiology care. Our team is proficient in a range of languages, allowing us to provide clear and comprehensive consultations to patients from various backgrounds. This multilingual approach fosters open communication, trust, and understanding between our medical experts and our diverse patient community, enhancing the overall healthcare experience for everyone we serve.

2. PATIENT-CENTERED EXCELLENCE

True healing extends beyond medical treatments. Our patient-centered approach emphasizes building strong doctor-patient relationships, fostering trust, and promoting open communication. From the moment you step into our clinic, you’ll experience a warm and welcoming environment that prioritizes your well-being.

Our team of dedicated cardiologists takes the time to understand each patient’s unique medical history, lifestyle, and concerns. This holistic understanding enables us to craft personalized treatment plans that consider both medical needs and individual preferences. Moreover, we

Kambiz Shetabi, M.D., FACC

Board Certified: Interventional Cardiology, Vascular Interventions, Cardiovascular Diseases, Nuclear Cardiology, Internal Medicine

empower our patients with comprehensive education about their conditions, ensuring they make informed decisions about their health journey.

3. EFFORTLESS ACCESSIBILITY

Recognizing that easy access to healthcare is essential, we’ve designed our clinic’s services with convenience in mind. Located strategically within the heart of San Diego, the Heart and Wellness Center ensures that quality cardiology care is never out of reach. We understand that modern life is fast-paced, so we offer flexible scheduling options, including virtual consultations for those who require remote care. Moreover, our commitment to accessibility extends to assisting patients with insurance-related queries, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

CONCLUSION

In a city known for its dynamic lifestyle, the Heart and Wellness Center shines as a beacon of cardiac health and comprehensive well-being. Our clinic’s unwavering dedication to innovation, patient-centered care, and accessibility cements our status as the best cardiology clinic in San Diego. As we continue to lead the charge in pioneering advancements, building relationships, and breaking down barriers to care, we invite you to experience the Heart and Wellness Center difference - where your heart’s health is at the center of all we do.

PRODUCTIVE REMITTANCES

By: Mauricio Uro

$5 billion dollars are sent on average every month from the United States to Mexico, almost 60 billion a year, this is 60% greater than all foreign direct investment made in 2022.

According to data from EMIF Norte, only 1.1% of that money is used to invest: buy land for cultivation or start a business.

Now, of those investments made, 95% fail, because having money to start a business does not provide the person who starts the venture with the necessary tools or knowledge to operate it correctly.

One of the biggest opportunities wasted by our countrymen is not taking advantage of exchange parity, even with the super peso as it is, the dollar continues to have a much greater purchase range in Mexico.

75 thousand dollars in the United States, for example, is not enough for you in terms of business, but in Mexico, it could buy you an apartment in a tourist area that you could rent on one of the platforms that exist, and you could earn up to 3 times more than the average that is sent in remittances per month.

The opportunities that the United States offers you in youth to earn and accumulate money, complicates it in your old age, with the absurd expenses in its health system and the increasing cost of living when you stop producing, therefore, 1.6 million Americans have migrated to Mexico with a growth rate of over 70% in recent years, and another million crosses to receive medical services.

Participating in productive remittance programs that allow you to obtain returns for your family members or for your retirement, by investing in professionally operated companies, is one of the financial strategies with the greatest opportunity in recent years.

If you want to know more about productive remittance programs, contact us at:

info@investal.financial

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THE RETURN OF

Pop-punk dominated the mainstream in the late 90s and 2000s, and almost 30 years after its first big breakthrough it seems like the genre’s comeback is here and it’s better than ever.

It’s impossible to talk about pop-punk without mentioning Green Day. The punk trio from Oakland California started in the late 80s but it was in 1994 with their major label debut “Dookie” when they blasted into the top, selling more than 10 million copies in the US, and marking the transition from grunge to punk in the mainstream. Green Day’s punk music was inspired by bands like The Clash and the Ramones, combined with more “poppy” melodies. That new sound made Green Day one of the biggest bands in the world and it started the new wave of “pop-punk” paving the way for bands like Sum-41, Simple Plan, Good Charlotte, Fall Out Boy, and more. Green Day managed to do it again 10 years later with their Punk Rock Opera, Grammy Winning album “American Idiot” in 2004 where the band’s popularity skyrocketed. Today, the Rock and Roll hall of farmers have sold more than 85 million records worldwide and are

still making music, while headlining big festivals like Lollapalooza and filling up stadiums around the world. They’ve also been a big inspiration for current artists like Billie Eilish, Post Malone, Ed Sheeran, and even Lady Gaga. Without a doubt the most successful punk band of all time. One of pop-punk’s most important names is blink-182. Following Green Day’s Dookie, the trio from San Diego made the next big pop-punk album in 1999 with “Enema of the State” putting the genre back on top with lots of bands following, their next two albums “Take off your Pants and Jacket” and the self-titled record (“blink-182”), were filled with hits making them one of the biggest bands of the era. Being a huge influence for artists like Panic! At the Disco and Avril Lavigne. They recently finished the US leg of their massive world tour selling out arenas across the States with the iconic “Mark, Tom, and Travis” lineup reuniting for the first time since 2014. Both Green Day and blink-182, arguably the 2 biggest and most influential bands of their era, are set to headline the “When We Were Young” festival in Las Vegas alongside tens of other similar bands,

in October. Last year’s edition of the festival was a massive hit headlined by My Chemical Romance and Paramore. Both bands are also considered to be some of the best bands of the 2000s, and within the last year went on big World Tours. The new era consists of artists like Yungblud and Machine Gun Kelly, whose album produced by Blink-182’s drummer Travis Barker, “Tickets to my Downfall”, peaked at number 1 in the billboard charts in 2020, Putting the genre back in the map introducing it to a whole new generation of fans. Even artists like Olivia Rodrigo are bringing back that Pop-Punk influenced sound.

Pop-Punk’s energetic rhythms, angsty lyrics, and fun tracks make it easy for people to come back to them, getting that nostalgic feeling. The big bands of the era coming back and hearing new artists use pop-punk sounds is the perfect combination for the genre to be in the place it is today proving that “It was never a phase”. Who knows, maybe in a few years we will see pop-punk as the new “Dad Rock”.

WRITTEN BY DAMIÁN ANGULO

David Magaña practices dental care for horses, inherited by his father.

An equine dental technician, he works at the racetracks in the city of Los Angeles, California, where his patients are racehorses.

“It is surprising for people when they ask me what I do; I am a ‘horse dentist,’ I reply.” This is how David Magaña began a talk for Así es la Nota, longing for those years when he accompanied his father to practice this beautiful profession.

“My dad took me to see the horses while he did the same, just as he also visited my uncles and my grandfather, they all had horses, some were trainers, veterinarians or jockeys; I remember that I really liked going to the racetrack and seeing these impressive animals, it was there that I acquired a taste for being a horse dentist”, explained David.

At that time, all the families that were dedicated to this trade worked at the Agua Caliente Racetrack, from his grandfather, uncles, cousins, and brother, until Jorge

The Horse Dentist

Written by Andreína Longoria

of races won.

“My father started out as a doctor’s assistant who did teeth for racehorses at the Agua Caliente Racetrack. The vet was older and taught my dad to stay in his place. My father is originally from Tijuana, of parents who came to these lands from San Julián, Jalisco. So, I was born here and raised as well. But what I remember I liked the most was smelling the place where the horses were since I was about 4 or 5 years old, they are very noble animals, I hugged them, slept with them, and kissed them,” explained the equine dental technician.

But it wasn’t until the age of fifteen that he began to help his father halt the horses and then pull teeth. At age 20 David earned his California license. “I began to study to be able to aspire to have the license and be an Equine Dentist Technician, it was not easy, they asked you many questions, the ones who qualified the job were a state veterinarian, another from the racetrack and a judge. Currently, I have been practicing this trade for 36 years, which has become my profession and what I live

on. I still love living with them and hugging them, they are animals that understand, it’s like everything, someone gets angry; you can bring them without a chain, and they follow you with their voice,” he commented.

For them to eat better and give excellent results in a race, horses from the age of two have their premolars and wolf teeth extracted. And when they turn three, the second and third premolars are removed. Magaña has worked at different racetracks in California, such as San Francisco Bay Meadows, Golden Gate, Hollywood Park, Pomona, Los Alamitos, Turf Paradise in Phoenix, Arizona, New Mexico, and many more. In Canada Exhibition Park, Century Downs, and Woodbine. In Mexico, the Hipódromo de las Américas in Cdmx to Ranchos de Caballos pureblood.

“I am very proud of my legacy; I have been fortunate to fix the teeth of horses from one million to nine and a half million. On average I have tended to up to 5,000 horses per year, from Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, Arabians and more,” he concluded.

Hank Ron closed the racetrack, with thousands

Five Main Reasons Why You Need a Living Trust

by Frank L. Bütts

The five main reasons you need a Living Trust can best be illustrated by this real-life story. I met a successful businessman several years ago and asked if he had performed any estate planning to protect his family. In order to conceal this gentleman’s real identity, we will call him Mr. Garcia for purposes of this story.

Mr. Garcia told me that he had a Will drafted up many years ago when he had first immigrated to the United States from Mexico and that his family was covered. At this point, given that I knew that Mr. Garcia owned a home and a business, I advised him, and much to his surprise, that his family was not actually protected unless he had a Living Trust.

It is important to tell you a little more about Mr. Garcia, because he is an American success story. Mr. Garcia emigrated from Mexico to the United States when he was a young man, primarily working as a laborer in the construction industry. After several years, he decided to start his own construction business which allowed him to purchase his first home and live the American Dream.

In Mr. Garcia’s case, although having a Will was better than not having one at all, he mistakenly believed that his loved ones would be protected when he passed away; however, what Mr. Garcia failed to realize is the gross value of his assets had grown over the years and exceeded the Small Estate Set-Aside under the California Probate Code; thus, requiring his family to settle his affairs in court upon his death.

At the time of this article, if the gross value of your assets is over $184,500 (2023), I would highly recommend that you have Living Trust. Included in this number is the value of your family home which is the most expensive asset the majority of us own. To give you some idea of what home prices are, in April of 2023 the median home price in California was $776,600, San Diego $880,000, Los Angeles $980,800, and in San Francisco $1,300,000.

For the reasons below, when your assets are more than $184,500 (2023), a Living Trust should be used for estate planning purposes in order to protect your family and loved ones.

Avoid Probate

In California, regardless of whether you have a Will or not, if the total value of your assets is more than $184,500 (2023), your loved ones will be required to go to probate court to settle your Estate. Properly holding assets in a Trust, helps your family and loved ones avoid an expensive and lengthy probate court proceeding, because assets held in Trust lawfully remove them from probate court review and administration.

In the case of Mr. Garcia, if he had passed away without creating a Trust, his family would have had to pay $435 in court fees to open a probate matter with the court, attorney’s fees in the amount of $23,000 (because his assets were more than $800,000) and his family would have to have had to wait at least a year (average time) for the court to finalize his estate and approve the transfer of his assets to his family.

Privacy

Another benefit of a Trust is privacy. Unlike probate court where your assets will become a matter of public record for the whole world to see, a Trust can only be reviewed by a limited number of named individuals; thus, protecting your assets from prying eyes.

In the case of Mr. Garcia, he was a very private man. If he had passed away without creating a Trust, all of his assets would have been made part of the court’s file and any individual who was interested therein would have had the opportunity to examine all of Mr. Garcia’s assets and financial affairs.

Reduce Taxes

If set up properly, a Trust can reduce, and in many cases eliminate, estate taxes by transferring your assets into your Trust, which will allow you to reduce your taxable estate. Unlike a Will, Trusts almost always take tax planning into account to protect your family and loved ones.

In the case of Garcia, if he were to pass away this year (2023), his federal estate tax exemption and gift exemption would be $12.06 million. With proper Trust planning, he and his wife could transfer $24.12 million to their children or loved ones tax free. The tax exemption is also tied to inflation, so it expected to raise even higher in the future.

Name Someone to Manage Your Assets

In the event that you are no longer mentally competent to manage your assets or affairs, a Trust will allow you to name a person that you trust to take care of you and manage your affairs for you. If you do not have a Trust, your loved ones would be forced to go through the expense of going to court to have a judge appoint someone to take care of your affairs on your behalf.

In the case of Mr. Garcia, had several children that he loved very much; however, one of his daughters was younger and less responsible than his other children. As such, he did not want this daughter to oversee his assets and affairs if he were to become mentally incapacitated especially given that Alzheimer’s ran in his family. By creating a Trust, Mr. Garcia with a Trust he was able to list his wife and those children he trusted most to run his affairs in lieu of having them go to court to be appointed conservator of his estate.

Control Over Your Assets

A Trust provides you a level of control over your assets that Wills cannot. In a Trust, you can decide what, how and when your assets will be given to your loved ones. If you have young children or grandchildren, you can make sure that they do not receive their inheritances all at once. You can set up your Trust in such a way to allow your children and grandchildren to receive funds for college or receive their funds when they have reached a more matured age (e.g. 18, 21, 25, etc.).

In the case of Mr. Garcia, with respect with the one daughter who was younger and less responsible, he was able to insert provisions in to his Trust which stated that this daughter’s inheritance would be held in trust and paid to cover her college tuition first and that the balance of her inheritance be paid to her when she reached a more mature age, in this case 30 years old.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking this journey with Mr. Garcia and I. As listed herein, I have briefly presented some of the most important reasons to set up a Trust in order to protect you and your loved ones; however, there are many more that I have been unable to touch upon given this limited forum (e.g. taking care of children with special needs, providing for pets, selling real estate, dividing up business ownership, etc.).

I you have interest in protecting your family and loved ones by setting up your own Trust or have any questions, I would be happy to discuss your options with you free of charge. Please call me, Frank L. Bütts, Esq., at: (760) 533.4303 or send me an email to esqflb@cox.net Se habla español.