By RAY QUIROGA
publisher@sbnewspaper.com
Participants of a San Benito-based dance studio welcomed a special guest last week, as Miss Galaxy International 2024, Janelle Medellin, a Weslaco native, visited the Resaca City’s own Step By Step Dance Studio, on two occasions, Sept. 7, and 11, 2023, to the excitement of the studio’s dancers, management and attendees.
During her visit, Medellin emphasized the importance of kindness and promoted positivity, “across the galaxy,” reported studio owner, Dr. Kimberly Banda, Ed.D., a 2002 San Benito High School (SBHS) graduate and former SBHS Belle. Banda was also the Belles’ director from 2006-13 and taught at SBHS between 2006-14.
A formal dancing student before her third birthday, Banda went on join her collegiate dance squad as an undergraduate student, as well as the Rio Grande Valley NBA Semi-Pro G-League Vipers’ dance team. She previously owned another dance studio in San Benito in 2012 before deciding to further her educational endeavors. All told, she has over 35 years of dance experience under her belt.
“Our youth enjoyed working on their positive affirmation activities and sharing ideas for boosting self-esteem, both inside and outside the studio,” Banda said regarding Medellin’s visit.
The dancers also contributed gifts for children fighting cancer, teaching the young ladies a valuable lesson about giving,” Banda explained.
Before the dancers retired for the evening, Medellin reminded them, “Don’t let anyone dim your light. You are your own person, and you are beautiful!” Banda described Medillin’s words to the girls as inspiring. “We even had the pleasure of teaching Miss Galaxy some dance moves, and she performed flawlessly,” Banda remarked.
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