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Brought to you by Texas.gov, this video series celebrates the diverse characters and cultures that embody the independent spirit of Texas.

Get to know some local Texans

Marsha Hendler

From champagne lifestyle to Texas Tea

Marsha left the lavish world of hospitality for a line of work with a little more grit — drilling for oil. Now a wildcatter and a pioneering business owner, she’s defying the expectations of what an oiler should be, and blazing a trail for female leadership in the industry.

A smiling Marsha Hendler at her desk, embodying her role as a pioneering and successful business owner in the oil industry.
Marsha Hendler in a cowboy hat stands proudly in front of an oil derrick, defying expectations of a typical oiler.
Marsha Hendler collaborates with a colleague over blueprints, blazing a trail for female leadership in her industry.

Kevin Gian

An ancient tradition in modern Texas

Meet Kevin, a pharmacist by trade who embodies the Texas spirit of blazing his own trail to follow his dreams. His troupe of Lion Dancers doesn’t just wow crowds: they help keep a centuries-old tradition alive, building community and deepening their connection to a rich history that now calls Texas home.

Kevin Glan in full, ornate costume, preparing for a traditional Lion Dance performance that connects community to rich history.
Kevin Glan carefully places a large Lion Dance head into the trunk of a car, showing the blend of ancient tradition and modern life.
A vibrant Lion Dance troupe performs for an enthusiastic crowd, demonstrating how the tradition builds community in Texas.

Veronique Medrano

Giving a voice to Tejano music history

Brownsville’s own Veronique is a superstar in the making. But celebrating her musical heritage on stage wasn’t enough. Now, as an archivist and historian, she’s working to preserve the heritage and traditions of Tejano music for future generations and shine a light on her hometown’s musical legacy.

Veronique Medrano carefully cleans a guitar, reflecting her work as an archivist preserving Tejano music heritage.
Veronique Medrano sings joyfully on a brightly lit stage with her band, celebrating her musical heritage as a superstar.
A portrait of Veronique Medrano holding her black cat, showing the personal side of the musician and historian.