Author: Sandra Cruz

Blogger, book reviewer, artist, poet, avid reader and nature/animal lover.

Taco Cabana’s Latest Innovations: A Sneak Peek at New Menu Offerings

Taco Cabana unveils exciting new street food fest menu offerings and giveaway opportunities. Photo: Taco Cabana, used with permission.

Attention Taco Cabana fans: there’s some new menu additions on the way.

Tex-Mex innovator Taco Cabana (TC) is thrilled to announce the debut of its enticing new Street Food Fest offerings, available beginning on Wednesday, July 3 in all Texas locations. The fusion of flavors available this Summer at Taco Cabana is sure to erupt the taste buds of each guest. (Taco Cabana, 2024)

Included in the new lineup are Cheetos® Flamin’ Hot® Taco, Al Pastor Tortas and Street Tacos, Brisket Loaded Fries and Nachos, Caramel Iced Coffee, and MTN DEW MAJOR MELON Rum Punch. 

“The possibilities for delicious and fun innovation are truly endless at Taco Cabana. We’re devoted to giving our guests delicious offerings that they love and trying out new things to let them discover more! This will be a memorable Taco Cabana Summer that guests can enjoy with loved ones or solo.” – Ulyses Camacho, President and COO of Taco Cabana

In an iconic collaboration with Cheetos® and Mountain Dew, Taco Cabana is pleased to introduce the all new Cheetos® Flamin’ Hot® Taco and MTN DEW MAJOR MELON Rum Punch. The Cheetos® Flamin’ Hot® Taco is made with a fresh flour tortilla, and filled with ground beef, Cheetos Flamin’ Hot snacks, shredded lettuce, and Cheetos® Flamin’ Hot® infused sauce. The frozen MTN DEW MAJOR MELON Rum Punch is made with Bacardi Rum and Mountain Dew Major Melon. This daring new duo creates a flavor harmony that will light up the market with excitement.

Additionally, Al Pastor Street Tacos and Al Pastor Tortas will be added to Taco Cabana’s menu. Taco Cabana’s al pastor recipe includes diced pork marinated in a combination of dried chilies and spices. Each serving features three street tacos with corn tortillas and pork al pastor, topped with cilantro and onions. They will be available as plates and combos. Plates include rice, choice of beans, shredded lettuce, guacamole and two tortillas. Combos include a 20 oz. drink plus small chips and queso. The torta is made with a toasted bolillo bun, layered with pork al pastor, fresh refried beans, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo and a side of salsa ranch. 

Due to popular customer demand for all the recent brisket additions on the menu, Taco Cabana is also adding Brisket Loaded Fries to its menu, in addition to Nachos. The loaded fries are seasoned and topped with queso, smoked brisket, sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo. The nachos are served with refried beans, queso, sour cream, guacamole, and topped with delicious smoked brisket. 

Just in time to beat the Texas summer heat, Taco Cabana is excited to introduce a refreshing new beverage: Caramel Iced Coffee. Perfect for starting your day or enjoying an afternoon pick-me-up, this delicious drink is crafted to keep you cool and energized all summer long. 

The fun doesn’t stop with the new Street Food Fest menu items because Taco Cabana is also introducing Taco Tuesdays for MY TC! Reward Members. Members will get double points every Tuesday when purchasing a taco plus a Pepsi drink. After purchase, members are automatically entered for a chance to win a Grand Prize weekend adventure at Kalahari Resorts, plus other weekly prizes like FREE taco combos for a year and a Summer Beach Bundle. The bundle will include Sunglasses, a Waterproof Phone Case, an Insulated Bottle, Duffle Bag, Bluetooth Speaker, Beach Towel, Backpack Cooler and Racket Ball Set for a Beach Game. 

Taco Cabana, a subsidiary of YTC Enterprises, LLC, was founded in 1978. The brand specializes in Mexican-inspired food including breakfast, lunch and dinner tacos, dozen taco boxes, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, flautas, burritos, double crunch pizzas, freshly-made flour tortillas, and a selection of made-from-scratch salsas and sauces. Restaurants feature open-display cooking, a selection of bottled beer and signature tequila margaritas, patio dining, drive-thru windows, curbside pick-up and delivery. As of January 1, 2024, Taco Cabana operates 143 company-owned restaurants in Texas.

Strategies for Success: A Review of ‘Executive Coaching for Black Executives’ by Robert Moment

‘Executive Coaching for Black Executives’ is an invitation to redefine the true meaning of leadership. Photo: Amazon

Robert Moment is a Top LinkedIn Voice in Leadership Development and a powerhouse in the realm of coaching and leadership development. With over 15 years of coaching experience and a solid foundation of 20-plus years in Fortune 500 corporate environments, Robert has sharpened his skills to unlock the full potential of individuals and companies alike. His insightful and transformative approach has made him a sought-after coach for those aiming to elevate their leadership capabilities and achieve peak performance. “Executive Coaching for Black Executives,” his new book, is a guide to unlocking your full potential, achieving fulfillment on your own terms, and leaving a legacy that inspires change. (Amazon, 2024)

“Executive Coaching for Black Executives” offers an exploration of the unique challenges and opportunities facing Black executives in corporate America today. Drawing on his extensive experience as a coach and a corporate leader, Moment provides invaluable insights and practical guidance made specifically to the needs of Black professionals working to navigate and flourish in leadership roles.
Topics include identity, navigating corporate culture, building strategic alliances, and overcoming systemic barriers. He combines personal stories with data-driven analysis, giving the narrative authenticity and authority. His approach is not just about career advancement but also about overall personal and professional development, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and continuous learning.

It is divided into 3 parts:
Part 1: Navigating the Landscape
Chapter 1: Decoding the System
Chapter 2: Deflecting Microaggressions
Chapter 3: Building Power and Influence

Part 2: Unleashing Your Potential
Chapter 4: Finding Your Voice
Chapter 5: Cultivating Your Leadership Style
Chapter 6: Embracing Continuous Learning

Part 3: Achieving Peak Performance
Chapter 7: Conquering Imposter Syndrome
Chapter 8: Work-Life Balance for the Black Executive
Chapter 9: Leaving a Legacy
Chapter 10: Navigating Challenges, Embracing Resilience

Moment encourages readers to embrace their unique strengths, confront biases head-on, and leverage mentorship and networking effectively. This book serves as both a mentor and a roadmap, offering practical tools and strategies that empower Black executives to thrive in competitive corporate environments. Each chapter ends with the section “Questions To Ask” to help readers translate the topics discussed into their own lives.

Highlights:
Chapter 2 because he defines microaggressions and advices on how to deflect them to keep the focus on work. “Deflecting microaggressions is not just a self-preservation tactic. It’s an act of defiance against systems that seek to diminish us.”

Chapter 6 where he emphasizes the importance of continuous learning: “…it’s about fostering an unyielding curiosity, adaptability, and the determination to remain a lifelong student.”

This book is a must-read for Black professionals aspiring to leadership roles, as well as for organizations committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels. It is a timely and valuable resource that contributes to the ongoing dialogue on leadership and representation in the business world. It is recommended readers interested in business books related to leadership, mentoring, management, and coaching.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

The Power of Tapping: Donna Eden and David Feinstein’s Approach to Energy Medicine

‘Tapping: Self-Healing with the Transformative Power of Energy Psychology’ is the new book by David Feinstein PhD and Donna Eden. Photo: Amazon

Donna Eden is the author of “Energy Medicine,” has treated over 10,000 individual clients, and has taught hundreds of classes, speaking to standing-room-only audiences throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South America. Since childhood, she’s been able to perceive the body’s subtle energies and now works with those energies to heal others and to teach others how to work with them. David Feinstein, PhD, a clinical psychologist, has served on the faculty of The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and has received nine national awards for his books on consciousness and healing. Together, they have written “Tapping: Self-Healing with the Transformative Power of Energy Psychology.” (Sounds True, 2024)

In “Tapping,” Eden and Feinstein detail the procedures that signal your nervous system to reduce fear, anger, stress, and grief while activating brain regions involved with problem-solving and managing emotions. The goal is to help you find inner balance and take charge of the internal models that govern your life. Physically tapping energy points on your skin while bringing problems and goals to mind changes the brain in ways that help to overcome those challenges and support those aspirations. This stimulating practice places an astonishingly effective tool into your own hands. The approach is as deceptively simple as it is potently effective. 

Through their extensive research and field-tested refinements on this method, Eden and Feinstein have emerged as top experts on this approach for self-development—combining the verified effectiveness of tapping with the best practices of psychotherapy. “Tapping” is an unprecedented resource for self-care and personal growth.

Navigating Economic Empowerment: Reviewing ‘United States of Small Business’ by Jonathan Quick

‘United States of Small Business’ compiles the wisdom and experiences of entrepreneurs from the first 43 episodes of Jonathan Quick’s podcast. Photo: Amazon

“United States of Small Business” is a compelling exploration of the backbone of the American economy. Jonathan Quick is the host of the podcast “United States of Small Business” and in this first volume, he shares the experiences shared by entrepreneurs from the first 43 episodes of his podcast. In this insightful book, Quick explores the world of small businesses, highlighting how they drive innovation, create jobs, and support local economies across the nation.

It takes readers on a journey through different types of businesses and regions, shedding light on diverse success stories and the challenges faced by small business owners. The author’s writing is both engaging and informative and the chapters are short and to the point. At the end of each chapter, there are links to their books, websites, and the specific podcast. Each of these stories is inspiring and have one idea in common: each entrepreneur recognized the gap in their industry and used that as a stepping stone to his/her success story. Among the characteristics they share are vision, resilience, innovation, passion, dedication, and adaptability.

Some of the chapters include:
Chapter 1:The American Dream Lives On: A Tale Told By Small Businesses In Every Town
Chapter 2: Unlocking The Seo Code: A Conversation With Lauren Gaggioli
Chapter 3: Embracing The Edge: Lessons From Christian Espinosa’s Journey To Cybersecurity Leadership
Chapter 4: Illuminating Success: The Entrepreneurial Journey Of Jacob Gaspard
Chapter 5: Chasing Horizons: Bob West’s Odyssey From Architect To Heartland Hero

Highlights:

Chapter 17: Unleashing Potential: The Brady Foulk Philosophy of Empowerment due to his philosophy of “awakening a sense of harmony and empowerment in both the animals and their human counterparts.” His method of dog training focuses on addressing the needs of both the dog and the owner.

Chapter 25: Jeff Maine’s Revolution: Merging Commerce With Compassion because it emphasizes that combining “visionary thinking and a commitment to the greater good” can eventually make way for a more philanthropic society.

This fascinating compilation of stories offers practical insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their own businesses. By combining stories with business analysis, Quick makes it accessible to both casual readers interested in motivational success stories and business savvy readers looking for business advice.

Overall, “United States of Small Business” is a must-read for anyone curious about the inside workings of small businesses as well as successful business profiles. It celebrates their contributions while providing sound business management guidance and makes an excellent addition to any home library.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Juicing Made Simple: A Review of ‘The Complete Diabetic Juicing Cookbook for Beginners’

“The Complete Diabetic Juicing Cookbook for Beginners” is the ultimate guide to better health and weight management. Photo: Amazon

Evelyn Roux is a nutritionist and dietician with over 15 years of experience helping busy moms navigate the world of nutrition and wellness. With a diploma in nutrition and food science, she honed her skills and knowledge in creating practical, family-friendly meal plans and strategies that fit seamlessly into hectic lifestyles. Her passion for nutrition began after watching her mom struggle for years to control her weight. Her book new book “The Complete Juicing Cookbook for Beginners: Your Essential Guide to Delicious, Low-Sugar Juice Recipes to Manage Blood Sugar and Achieve Your Weight Goals” empowers readers to take control of their health without sacrificing the joy of delicious drinks. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Complete Juicing Cookbook for Beginners” is an indispensable guide for anyone needing information about diabetes management while seeking nutritious, delicious juice options. It introduces you to the power of juicing that can help you “fuel your body, stabilize your blood sugar, and revitalize your health.” The author begins with outlining the different types of diabetes, the impact that commercial juices have on blood sugar levels, and the benefits of low sugar juicing. Along with recipes, she gives information on how to choose the right equipment, how to prepare the ingredients, and choosing the right juice to fit your lifestyle.

The recipes are thoughtfully put together to include low-glycemic fruits and vegetables, ensuring they won’t cause sudden spikes in blood sugar. From refreshing citrus blends to vibrant green juices packed with antioxidants, each recipe is easy to follow, accompanied by nutritional information per serving.

The book is divided into 17 chapters that include:

Introduction
Understanding Diabetes and Juicing
Benefits of Low-Sugar Juicing
Top Ingredients to Juice
Some Juicing Guidelines
Detoxifying Juice Recipes
Morning Juice Recipes
Post-Workout Juice Recipes
Soothing Evening Blends
Gut Health Juice Recipes
Chia Juice Blends
Nut Milk Juices
Nutritional Information Charts
Measurement Conversion Chart
Common Questions About Juicing for Diabetics
Conclusion
What to Do With Your Juicer Pulp

Overall, Roux emphasizes the versatility of juicing as part of a balanced diabetic diet, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned juicers alike. As someone who is conscious about reducing waste in the kitchen, I especially appreciate the chapter on what to do with the juicer pulp, which includes recipes for making smoothies, baby food, pet food, compost, veggie burgers, broth, and popsicles. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your mornings with a nutritious juice or incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, “The Complete Diabetic Juicing Cookbook for Beginners” offers a wide variety of options. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their health through mindful juicing practices.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Experience Clear Cut: Thrills, Chills, and Unexpected Twists

Lochlyn Munro in Clear Cut. Photo: Lionsgate, used with permission.

Thrillers are some of my favorite types of movies. They captivate audiences with suspenseful plots, heart-pounding tension, and unexpected twists and skillfully blend mystery, danger, and psychological intrigue. Complex characters face dangerous situations, often involving crime, espionage, or the supernatural. With atmospheric cinematography and gripping soundtracks, thrillers create an immersive world of uncertainty, where every moment counts towards an electrifying climax. In today’s movie news, if you’re looking forward to the next thriller, there’s a new one coming out next month from Lionsgate: Clear Cut.

Clear Cut – Every moment is filled with danger for a man cutting timber in the Pacific Northwest, but Jack becomes the target of a brutal assault from more than the elements in this action-packed thriller. As Jack ventures deeper into the woods, he crosses paths with a criminal band of madmen from his past intent on killing him before he can fight his way back to civilization. Academy Award Nominee Alec Baldwin, Stephen Dorff, and Tom Welling star in an electrifying drama about one man’s treacherous journey on the road to redemption. (EG-PR, 2024)

Genre: Thriller
Rating: R
Running Time: 88 mins
Release Date in theater, digital, and on demand: 7/19/2024 (US and Canada)

Cast: Clive Standen, Lucy Martin, Jesse Metcalfe, Tom Welling, Lochlyn Munro, Chelsey Reist, Tom Stevens, Mike Dopud, Stephen Dorff, Alec Baldwin

Director: Brian Skiba
Writer: Joe Perruccio

Executive Producers: Eric Bromberg, Ram Getz, Greg Meyer, Nick Mao, Michael Mortensen, Jordan Wayne Nott, Matthew Helderman, Luke Taylor, Tyler Gould, Kirk Shaw, Stephanie Rennie

Clear Cut will be released July 19. 2024. Photo: Lionsgate, used with permission.

Kids Travel Made Easier: Luxury Sleepovers at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk is now offering Thompson Sleepovers for children aged 10 and under. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

Family summer vacations are an annual ritual, blending adventure with relaxation. Days are filled with sandy beaches, fun, and the thrill of exploring new places together. From road trips across scenic landscapes to cozy cabins by the lake, each destination becomes a bonding experience by creating cherished memories. These vacations are more than just getaways; they’re a combination of shared experiences that strengthen family bonds, leaving an imprint of warmth and nostalgia to carry through generations. With summer season in full swing, if you’re looking for a unique lodging experience, consider this new amenity from Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk.

Hotels today are offering kids more and more special amenities to enhance the family vacation experience. This summer, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk introduces Thompson Sleepovers, offering children aged 10 and under a unique glamping experience. Kids can sleep in style with a beautifully curated, in-room tent setup, complete with a delightful ‘midnight’ snack pack amenity. (Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

Thompson Sleepovers can be added to any room reservation, ensuring families can enjoy a blend of luxury and adventure. They are the perfect way to give kids a luxurious glamping experience in the comfort of your own suite.

Thompson Sleepover Tents are beautifully crafted and gender-neutral. Book a Thompson Sleepover Experience for unforgettable fun.

INCLUDED:
Midnight snack pack amenity
Thompson Sleepover Tent Rental
Build and breakdown of Tent
Memorable experience for your Small Traveler(s)

The setups and takedowns are hassle-free. Your tent will be ready upon your arrival. Afterwards, leave the tent as is, and a member from our team with handle the breakdown after your checkout.

*Due to space, this experience is only available for suite bookings. Solo or up to two (2) tent rentals per suite. Recommended for ages 10 and under. Please book 24 hours in advance.

For questions, please email Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk.

Thompson Sleepovers. Photo: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, used with permission.

From Delta to Getaway Blues: Eden Brent’s Musical Evolution

Mississippi Blues pianist Eden Brent took her award-winning sound to London for first album in nearly a decade, Getaway Blues. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Mississippi Delta native Eden Brent is a modern-day piano-pounding, juke-joint hollering powerhouse of American music. A legendary performer and southern songwriter, she spent the first two decades of her career under the tutelage of Abie “Boogaloo” Ames, before winning the Blues Foundation’s Blues Challenge and bouncing onto the international scene.

Since then she has accrued awards and accolades galore, including three Blues Music Award wins, a prestigious Mississippi Arts Commission Folk Arts Fellowship, a featured performance on NPR’s Weekend Edition, and a million streams for her classic-in-the-making original, “Better This Way.” Her new album Getaway Blues, a collaboration with her UK-born life and musical partner Bob Dowell, presents nine original songs recorded in London with a four-piece band and was released last week by Yellow Dog Records. (IV-PR, 2024)

“Well let’s make a record while we’re there,” thought Delta born-and-raised singer and pianist Eden Brent, while planning a trip to a party in London. Brent’s husband, British trombonist and bassist, Bob Dowell, then called on two of his finest studio musician friends to accompany Eden on what would become Getaway Blues. 

Getaway Blues continues Eden’s lifelong devotion to the Blues with a collection of originals that play to her many strengths: driving blues, double-entendre, and riffing piano, balanced by introspective ballads such as the heart-on-sleeve triumph “You on My Mind,” sung with the natural phrasing of a true Southerner. Produced and co-written by Dowell, Getaway Blues symbolizes the musical union that Eden and Bob have created.

The recording facility that Brent and Dowell found for the project, Fish Factory Studio, was suitably funky and led to some of the quickest tracking Eden has ever done. “They say cleanliness is next to Godliness,” says Eden. “And I’m no saint! Most of the studios that I’ve felt comfortable in were like Piety Street in New Orleans [where she made Ain’t Got No Troubles]. Real lived in. That’s the way this place was. It used to be a fish factory! It felt real cozy…We knocked it out in two days!” 

Back in the States, Grammy-winning engineer Matt Ross-Spang gave the record a Memphis mix, one as down to earth as the sessions. “We did something that you can easily take on the road,” says Eden with pride. “What you hear is what you’re gonna get.” 

Fourth of July: Celebrate with Bakery Lorraine’s Star-Spangled Pies

Bakery Lorraine’s tangy berry-topped Buttermilk Pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

The Fourth of July is the number one holiday to celebrate freedom with good friends, joyful festivities, and delicious food. Bakery Lorraine, the best place to get mouth-watering pastries and baked goods across San Antonio, Austin, and Boerne, has announced that they are now accepting pre-orders for their iconic four-variety Dutch Apple Pie and tangy berry-topped Buttermilk Pie for only $34. These tasty pies can be easily ordered online for maximum convenience. Whether for a cookout on the lake, a neighborhood block party, or a comfy day at home with loved ones, these pies can be the hallmark of true Fourth of July festivities for any family. (Bakery Lorraine, 2024) 

Pre-orders close this Sunday, June 30 at 12p.m., and these tasty creations will be available for in-store pickup on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

Bakery Lorraine’s Dutch Apple Pie and Buttermilk Pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

Finding Harmony: The Message of ‘Peace Over Politics’ by Tonja Myles

The new book ‘Peace Over Politics’ gives practical tools to manage mental health and chronic stress during election season. Photo: Amazon

The mental health crisis in America persists as a silent epidemic, affecting millions across all demographics. Despite increased awareness, stigma and inadequate access to care have worsened the situation, leaving many untreated or undertreated, especially among marginalized communities. Anxiety and depression rates are soaring, compounded by societal pressures, economic instability, and now, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing this crisis demands systemic changes, from policy reforms to efforts to destigmatize getting treatment, to ensure every individual has access to the support they need for their mental well-being.

In her new book, author Tonja Myles and mental health expert addresses the importance of protecting your inner peace during political chaos. Polarized politics and never-ending news cycles have created a national mental health crisis that will only worsen if people cannot build needed skills to survive. (Tonja Myles, 2024)

“Today’s political climate is more divisive than ever, and you have to protect your inner peace and mental health like never before. Our current election season is a source of chronic stress that will only worsen if we do not learn the needed skills to cope.” – 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline subject matter expert and spokeswoman Tonja Myles

Released this month, “Peace Over Politics: How to Navigate Protecting Your Peace During Political Climates,” gives readers practical tools to manage this crisis. According to the American Psychological Association, following daily political news can negatively affect your mental health, but disengaging from society can be harmful too, she says. Myles, a community engagement advisor for the Huntsman Family Foundation and mental health expert, says everyone must learn how to practice self-care while balancing good citizenship, regardless of political party.

The book shows readers how to cultivate inner harmony while engaging in compassionate activism to create positive change in the world. With these skills, people can gracefully navigate political differences and create unity within their communities, she says.

The book “shares many of the tools, tips, and resources that are needed to build a blueprint for living whole and well even when much around us, online and offline, is loud, divisive, and needlessly harmful,” says American Psychiatric Association Foundation Executive Director, Rawle Andrews Jr.

“Peace Over Politics: How to Navigate Protecting Your Peace During Political Climates” will help readers:

  • Understand inner harmony – become self-aware and emotionally balanced so you can navigate political discourse with composure and empathy
  • Reflect on your values – examine your values and determine how they align with your desire for peace amidst political influences
  • Navigate ideological differences – engage in constructive conversations with empathy and active listening to foster understanding and bridge divides
  • Make healthy boundaries – set and assert healthy boundaries to protect your peace in the face of political discourse and societal pressures
  • Create community connections – engage in community activities, promote dialogue, and collaborate to cultivate your peace and shared understanding amidst political differences
  • Practice compassionate activism – create positive changes in the world while you prioritize your peace and well-being

Tonja Myles is the co-founder and executive director of the faith-based outpatient center Set Free Indeed and the community support program Set Free Indeed Ministry. She is the community engagement advisor for the Huntsman Family Foundation and spokeswoman for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. She has won more than a dozen awards for her service including the Johns Hopkins Substance Abuse Innovators Award 2005 and the Daily Point of Light award 2004. She is an ordained minister, Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, author, community activist, and Army National Guard veteran.