The year of the pandemic is almost behind us, and we can all agree the countdown to 2021 cannot get here soon enough. We all had to make some sort of sacrifice and overcome so many challenges – amid restrictions, personal tragedies or financial hardships – but 2020 has also taught us to be resilient.
We mourn those who passed away from the pandemic and send our heartfelt sympathies to those left behind to cherish their memories and share their legacies. We honor all those brave frontline workers who selflessly took care of our communities: doctors, nurses, healthcare workers and first responders. And we recognize those unsung heroes who helped us continue our daily lives as normal as possible: grocery store workers, teachers, school administrators, elected officials and those non-profit organizations that continued to help those most in need.
Our featured columnist Elsa Cavazos starts our winter 2020 issue describing the unusual circumstances that forced many of us to be like a chameleon, adjusting to our surroundings and situations as the pandemic started to affect all our lives.
This issue, we are proud to showcase several women who have used their talents, skills and community connections to launch successful projects. We will introduce you to Elma Chavez, whose business background and close families ties helped her launch a popular boutique in Raymondville. You will also read about Lucy Ann Wolthoff, who overcame physical hardships after a terrible car accident and is now an advocate for foster children. Finally, Dr. Lisa Peña shares her personal journey that inspired her to help launch the non-profit Labeled and Loved, which helps families with loved ones with special needs.
It would not be a winter issue without showcasing some delicious local eateries that may just come in handy for your at-home holiday celebrations. Our cover story profiles the sisters behind Bocata, a “take and go” eatery in Brownsville that specializes in delicious charcuterie platters, some with a holiday twist. And with the weather getting cooler, we all crave that rich comfort food, which happens to be the specialty of Antigua Bakery & Café.
Finally, we introduce you to the various physical, emotional and spiritual benefits to practicing yoga. Breathe Hot Studio in Brownsville gives us an insight in to the different types of yoga, and its instructors share their passion for this ancient form of meditation, which also happens to be an excellent workout.
From the entire team at Valley Women’s Inspire, we wish all our readers and their loved ones a happy holiday season and our best wishes for a prosperous new year. We hope you enjoy this issue.
