Ceressa McFadden didn't have many friends when she moved to San Antonio four years ago. Now she leads one of the fastest-growing social communities for women in the city.

Why it matters: Making friends as an adult can be tough, especially as a transplant in a city where many locals formed their social circles long before adulthood.

Catch up quick: McFadden, originally from South Florida, launched the Gathering as a 12-woman meetup at Pearl in 2021.

• Now, she and a team of volunteers organize large-scale events, like a recent rodeo-themed International Women's Day celebration that drew 310 women.
• The group stays connected through a group chat with more than 1,000 members.

Between the lines: McFadden says she spent her early days in San Antonio watching events she wanted to attend pass her by because she had no one to go with.

• Thanks to the Gathering, McFadden says she's made the most of her time in San Antonio.
• "I want people to fall in love with San Antonio like I have these past four years," she says. "It's an intro to truly explore the city and do things together."

How it works: Events are shared on Instagram and Eventbrite. There are no membership fees, and people just show up.

The vibe: The Gathering events are built to feel warm, low-pressure and welcoming, even for first-timers walking in alone.

• But the impact doesn't end when the event does. The real magic, McFadden says, is in the moments after, when women start making weekend plans that stretch beyond the Gathering's calendar.
• "It's just heartwarming because I didn't think it would grow into all of this," McFadden says.

The big picture: A 2023 advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General warned that social disconnection can increase the likelihood of heart disease, dementia, depression and premature death.

• Half of U.S. adults report experiencing loneliness, per the advisory.

What's next: The Gathering will celebrate its second anniversary on June 8 at Pick's Bar.

Grow your girl gang

Selena killer Yolanda Saldívar was denied parole yesterday.

Driving the news: The reason Saldívar was denied was the "nature of offense" and because she "poses a continuing threat to public safety," per a statement by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.

• A three-person panel from the board came to the decision after reviewing Saldívar's case.

Flashback: Saldívar, 64, was sentenced to life in prison on Oct. 26, 1995, with the possibility of parole after 30 years.

• Saldívar shot Selena in a Corpus Christi hotel room after the 23-year-old singer confronted her over embezzlement allegations related to her fan club and boutiques.
• Saldívar has maintained that the shooting was accidental.

What they're saying: The Quintanilla family and Selena's husband, Chris Pérez, jointly said in a statement posted on Facebook yesterday that they were grateful Saldívar was denied parole.

• "While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us and from millions of fans around the world far too soon," the family wrote.
• "Selena's legacy is one of love, music, and inspiration. She lived with joy, gave selflessly, and continues to uplift generations with her voice and her spirit."

What's next: Saldívar's case will be reevaluated in one to five years.

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⚖️ A New York county clerk yesterday blocked Texas from taking legal action against a doctor who sent abortion pills to a woman in Texas.

• The states have dueling abortion laws. The case is expected to reach the U.S. Supreme Court. (NYT)

⏭️ Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said he will advocate for a special legislative session if lawmakers don't ban THC or tighten bail laws before the regular session ends in June. (Texas Tribune)

💬 Mayoral candidate and North Side Councilmember John Courage took criticism from colleagues for saying it was "easy" to be homeless. (Express-News 🔑)

👏 Mixtli, San Antonio's only Michelin-starred restaurant, has launched a more casual bar menu that comes at a lower price and doesn't require a reservation. (SA Report)

👋 Megan here. There's no shortage of options when you find yourself hungry in Southtown, but one spot recently checked all my boxes.

Dig in: I stopped by Queso Pan y Vino for the first time since the restaurant relocated from South Alamo Street to sun-filled digs across from The Friendly Spot.

The vibe: I loved how the space managed to feel fresh and classy while also remaining casual. It's perfect for a night out when you don't want to dress up, but want someplace decently nice.

What to eat: Pizza, of course. We ordered a half margherita, half pepperoni ($14). It's made fresh to order.

• The baked brie ($13) is a great starter. It comes in a hot skillet with honey, seasonal fruit, nuts and crostini to pile it all on.

The bottom line: Sometimes all you need is plentiful natural light, crisp wine and freshly baked pizza.

👀Discover new local events.

Phoenix Global Forum at Phoenix Convention Center April 8-9: Join them for two days of discussion on AI, biotech, space and more. Register now.

Hosting an event? Email [email protected].

The Men's Final Four is about to kick off once again in San Antonio.

Through the lens: We're taking a look at some of the most iconic moments of March Madness tournaments through the decades, from the 1980s to the present day.

See iconic photos from the women's tourney