Estela Fullerton: From Humble Beginnings to Mrs. Grand International 2024

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Estela Fullerton, a 61-year-old Filipino-American from Arlee, Montana, has captured global attention by being crowned Mrs. Grand International 2024, a prestigious title awarded during the grand competition held in Myanmar in November 2024. Her journey to this milestone is not just a celebration of beauty and grace but also a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the enduring spirit of service.

A Story Rooted in Humility and Ambition

Born as Estela A. Jardinico in Cotabato City, Philippines, Estela's early life was marked by financial challenges that prevented her from pursuing higher education at Notre Dame University, a dream she long held dear. Despite these hardships, she never let go of her aspirations, keeping alive a vision of achieving greatness even when opportunities seemed out of reach.

In 2003, her life took a significant turn when she moved to the United States, where she met her husband, Hal Fullerton. Together, they built a loving family and a fulfilling life in Arlee, Montana. Today, Estela is a proud mother of five children, aged 21 to 44, and a grandmother of three, with two more grandchildren on the way. Her family has always been her greatest source of strength and inspiration.

Championing Advocacy and Empowerment

Beyond her familial commitments, Estela is a dedicated advocate for education and women's empowerment. In 2017, she founded the Filipino American Montana Organization (FAMO), a nonprofit initiative aimed at providing educational assistance to underprivileged children and supporting women in need. What began as a simple act of sponsoring school supplies for 50 Filipino children has grown into a movement encompassing tuition grants and various community programs.

Estela’s advocacy work reflects her commitment to bridging cultures and uplifting lives. She has become a beacon of hope for many, showing that one’s roots and heritage can serve as powerful tools for making a difference in the world.

A Historic Path to Pageantry

Estela’s foray into the world of pageantry began with her triumph as Mrs. Grand Elite USA 2024 in Seattle on August 3, 2024. This victory not only secured her a spot in the international competition but also made her the first representative of the Coalition of Filipino American Chambers of Commerce (COFACC) to compete on this prestigious stage.

During the competition in Myanmar, Estela stunned audiences with her "Liberty" national costume, symbolizing freedom, strength, and her dedication to social good. Her poise and charisma earned her the "Mrs. Popularity" title, leading to her eventual coronation as Mrs. Grand International 2024.

An Advocate for Women and a Role Model for All

In her acceptance speech, Estela highlighted her belief that age is merely a number. She encouraged women who have faced challenges to rise above, stand tall, and live life to the fullest while remaining humble and kind. She plans to use her new role to advocate for married women, empower communities, and promote social causes that align with her lifelong mission.

Estela’s achievements resonate deeply with her Filipino heritage and American upbringing, showcasing the power of perseverance and the impact of a unified community. She stands as a role model for others, proving that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and make a significant difference in the world.

A Global Inspiration

As Estela Fullerton embraces her new role as Mrs. Grand International 2024, she embodies the spirit of a modern-day hero—someone who overcomes adversity, inspires change, and uplifts others through grace and determination. Her journey reminds us all that with passion and purpose, we can achieve greatness and touch lives along the way.

Follow Estela’s inspiring journey and advocacy work on Instagram at @ebaiaizakarim and learn more about her nonprofit initiatives through the Filipino American Montana Organization (FAMO). Let us all cheer for Estela as she continues to make an indelible mark on the world stage!

Why Superman's Suit Without Trunks Looks Weird and Why Adaptation Needs to Honor the Source Material

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Superman is one of the most iconic figures in popular culture, and his red trunks are as integral to his identity as the "S" shield on his chest. Yet, in recent years, adaptations have stripped Superman of his classic red trunks, leaving fans divided over whether this design choice is a necessary update or an unnecessary deviation. To some, a Superman suit without trunks feels as incomplete as the American flag without its red stripes—bold but lacking balance. But is it just nostalgia talking, or is there a deeper design principle at play?

The Importance of Trunks in Superman’s Costume

At first glance, the red trunks might seem like an outdated relic from the Golden Age of comics, but their purpose goes beyond mere tradition. From a design perspective, the trunks serve as a visual break that balances the overwhelming blue of Superman's suit. This is basic color theory: without the trunks, the suit risks appearing monotonous or flat, especially from a distance. The trunks act as an anchor, drawing the eye and providing a sense of structure, much like Batman's utility belt breaks up his gray bodysuit.

The absence of the trunks in modern adaptations, starting with Man of Steel in 2013, has sparked heated debates among fans. Henry Cavill’s suit, while sleek and modern, suffered from being a solid block of blue, lacking the visual contrast that made Superman's original design so timeless. Critics of the trunks argue that they look "silly" or "old-fashioned," but proponents counter that the design choice was never about realism—it was about creating an iconic and instantly recognizable silhouette.

Why Adaptation Matters

The push to remove Superman’s trunks is part of a broader trend in comic book adaptations: the drive to modernize. While modernization isn’t inherently bad, it often comes at the expense of what made the original work resonate. Superman without trunks feels akin to Thor without his helmet or Captain America finally getting his scale armor in Avengers: Endgame. These details, while seemingly minor, are essential to preserving the character's essence and honoring the source material.

Adaptation is not about carbon copying the comics—it’s about understanding and respecting their foundational elements while translating them to a new medium. This principle is why Iron Man's armor evolved over time, eventually incorporating the iconic red-and-gold placement from the comics, or why Spider-Man's suits include webbing patterns that evoke the character’s comic roots. Fans aren’t asking for perfection; they’re asking for authenticity.

The Danger of Settling

One of the most passionate points raised in the critique of Superman's recent costumes is the idea of settling for mediocrity. James Gunn’s upcoming Superman: Legacy has already sparked controversy, with some fans calling David Corenswet's suit “uninspired” and “lifeless.” While it’s too early to judge the final product, the backlash reflects a growing frustration among fans who feel their beloved characters are being diluted in the name of reinvention.

The problem isn’t just the suit; it’s the mindset behind it. When creators stray too far from the source material, they risk alienating the very audience that made these characters iconic. This isn’t about Snyder vs. Gunn or any other director—it’s about demanding excellence. Fans deserve adaptations that capture the heart and soul of their favorite heroes, not watered-down versions that prioritize mass appeal over authenticity.

Embracing What Works

Some of the most successful comic book adaptations, like The Dark Knight trilogy or Spider-Man: No Way Home, succeeded because they embraced the core elements of their characters while finding innovative ways to tell their stories. These films didn’t shy away from iconic designs or storytelling beats; they leaned into them, proving that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to create something fresh and exciting.

Superman’s red trunks are a part of his legacy. They’re not just a design choice—they’re a symbol of what makes the character timeless. Removing them might seem like a minor tweak, but it reflects a larger trend of undervaluing the details that make these heroes special. Whether it’s Drax’s green skin, Gamora’s classic look, or Nebula’s comic-accurate hair, fans notice when creators stray too far from the source material—and they care.

Final Thoughts

Superman’s suit without trunks may seem like a trivial detail to some, but for many fans, it’s a visual shorthand for a larger issue: the tension between honoring the past and chasing modernity. Adaptation is a delicate balance, and while innovation is important, it should never come at the expense of what made these characters iconic in the first place.

To paraphrase the impassioned plea: just do what’s in the book. Honor the source material, elevate it with high-quality design, and trust that the fans will appreciate the effort. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the trunks—it’s about staying true to what makes Superman, Superman.

The Hidden Dangers of Sugary Drinks: How Coke, Pepsi, and the Beverage Industry are Impacting Public Health

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For decades, sugary drinks like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other soda brands have been synonymous with fun, happiness, and togetherness. Their advertising campaigns have cleverly woven these beverages into moments of joy—whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or a casual hangout with friends. But the truth behind these products is far from the image of refreshment they portray. Beneath the bubbles and sweetness lies a dark reality, and the harm these drinks cause to our bodies is undeniable.

The Sweet Illusion: A Dangerous Marketing Campaign

From the outset, the soda industry has spent billions of dollars manipulating the public’s perception of sugary drinks. They’ve successfully convinced us that their products are a part of life’s happiest moments, linking their brands to concepts like friendship, success, and shared experiences. However, the reality is far different. These beverages are not just sugar water, they are high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)-laden concoctions that are chemically altered to create a refreshing taste—an illusion of enjoyment.

In fact, many popular sodas like Coke and Pepsi contain high-fructose corn syrup, a sweetener that has been associated with numerous health problems. These sugary drinks are essentially carbonated, flavored, and preserved waters, designed to please the taste buds while wreaking havoc on our health over time.

While soda may offer a quick, sugary rush, its long-term effects are alarming. The beverage industry knows full well what they are doing, but their focus is on one thing: profits. Through carefully designed advertising and public relations campaigns, they have convinced generations of consumers that soda is harmless—despite growing evidence of its damaging impact on health.

The Health Crisis: Diabetes, Obesity, and Heart Disease

The health risks associated with sugary drinks have been extensively documented in numerous studies and reports. Yet, the beverage industry continues to thrive, largely unchecked, despite mounting evidence of the dangers their products pose.

According to a 2020 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, regular consumption of sugary beverages is linked to an increased risk of diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and even stroke. The study found that individuals who consumed more than 500 ml of sugary drinks daily had a significantly higher risk of developing these chronic conditions. The high levels of sugar, especially high-fructose corn syrup, contribute to insulin resistance, obesity, and inflammation, all of which pave the way for diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular problems.

But the risk doesn't stop there. Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and other sugary drinks are also contributing to liver damage and fatty liver disease. According to The Lancet, a leading medical journal, excessive sugar consumption leads to fat accumulation in the liver, which can progress to cirrhosis and even liver cancer.

Beyond the immediate health risks, sugary drinks are also responsible for worsening the epidemic of obesity. In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) pointed to the excessive consumption of sugary drinks as one of the primary drivers of the global obesity crisis, particularly among children and adolescents. These drinks are often consumed in large quantities and have minimal nutritional value, making them a major contributor to poor diet choices and unhealthy lifestyles.

The Sugar Addiction: How Soda Hooks You In

What makes sugary drinks particularly dangerous is their addictive nature. Research has shown that sugar can be as addictive as cocaine and nicotine. A study published in The Journal of Nutrition found that sugar stimulates the same reward centers in the brain as illicit drugs. This means that, for many, the craving for a sugary drink is not just a habit—it’s an addiction.

When people drink sodas regularly, their bodies begin to rely on the sugar for quick energy. Over time, the brain develops a tolerance, causing individuals to consume more to get the same “hit” of sweetness. This addiction to sugar can lead to long-term health problems such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, both of which have become widespread conditions in societies that consume large amounts of sugary drinks.

Marketing and the Manipulation of Public Perception

Soda companies like Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been highly effective in using marketing tactics to create a false narrative around their products. They have capitalized on emotional triggers, associating their brands with happiness, celebration, and even patriotism in some cases. The famous Coke holiday ads featuring Santa Claus and the joyful portrayal of sharing a Coke with friends are just a few examples of how these companies have ingrained sugary drinks into the fabric of society.

Marketing executives know exactly how to tap into human emotions and desires to sell their products. Studies have shown that advertising to children, in particular, has a significant impact on their consumption habits. By embedding sugary drinks in children’s entertainment, using cartoon characters and catchy jingles, these companies have succeeded in creating brand loyalty from a young age.

But it's not just the ads. Celebrity endorsements and sponsorship of major events like the Olympics and World Cup further cement the idea that sugary drinks are integral to the fun and excitement of life. However, all of this gloss hides the dangerous reality of these beverages.

In recent years, there have been numerous reports linking sugary drinks to health crises. According to a 2021 Reuters report, the beverage industry continues to push its products into low-income communities, where access to healthier alternatives is limited, further perpetuating the cycle of addiction and poor health.

The Corporate Influence: Silencing the Critics

It’s not just the marketing that makes sugary drinks so pervasive—it’s the power and influence of the beverage corporations themselves. Coke and Pepsi are among the world’s largest companies, with the ability to shape public policy and influence regulations. Through extensive lobbying efforts and financial contributions to political campaigns, these companies have managed to fend off calls for taxation on sugary drinks and regulations that would limit their harmful effects.

In some cases, these companies have funded research aimed at downplaying the dangers of sugary drinks or discrediting scientific studies that expose their risks. A 2016 investigation by The New York Times revealed that Coca-Cola had paid researchers to downplay the link between sugary drinks and obesity, a tactic that has allowed the company to maintain its massive profits while continuing to sell a dangerous product.

The Importance of Awareness: How to Break Free from the Cycle

Despite the overwhelming evidence of the harms caused by sugary drinks, many people continue to consume them regularly. The addiction to sugar, combined with the intense marketing campaigns, has created a powerful cycle that’s difficult to break. But there is hope.

Awareness is key. By understanding the risks of drinking sodas and other sugary beverages, individuals can make more informed decisions about what they consume. The rise of sugar-free alternatives, natural sweeteners, and healthier beverage options has provided consumers with the opportunity to break free from the grip of sugary drinks.

As consumers, we must also demand more transparency from the beverage industry. It's time for these companies to be held accountable for the damage they are causing to public health. We need stronger regulations, healthier product formulations, and honest advertising practices that focus on the long-term well-being of consumers rather than short-term profits.

The next time you reach for a sugary drink, ask yourself: is it really worth it? Is the fleeting pleasure worth the long-term health risks? The truth is, we have the power to make healthier choices and break free from the hold that sugary drinks have over us. But we must act now, before it’s too late.