The Colombia Live Folkloric at the La Familia Event
En el Día de Acción de Gracias, muchos hogares hispanos se llenarán del aroma familiar del pavo asado, pero los preparativos navideños también incluirán otros platos tradicionales que reflejan mejor la herencia hispana. Muchos latinos pueden optar por seguir las tradiciones estadounidenses y también optar por incluir comidas hispanas como parte de la celebración.
En el espíritu del Día de Acción de Gracias, mezclar lo viejo con una nueva parte de la vida es una forma de mostrar cuán agradecidos y agradecidos están los latinos por sus vidas abundantes. El Día de Acción de Gracias a veces se conoce como “Día de Acción de Gracia” o “Día de Dar Gracias”, pero el nombre o las tradiciones de Acción de Gracias se mantienen fuertes. Parte de la experiencia única de los latinos en los Estados Unidos es crear una mezcla personalizada de señales y tradiciones culturales hispanas y estadounidenses. Por lo tanto, si bien es totalmente estadounidense en su esencia, el Día de Acción de Gracias en un hogar latino aún puede verse y sentirse innatamente latino, desde la comida y la decoración hasta un flujo constante de música, baile y risas latinas. Estas cosas no le quitan a la tradición, solo agregan más capas.
Junto con el relleno clásico, la salsa, el puré de papas y arándanos, los tostones o el mofongo (ambos hechos de plátanos fritos), se pueden encontrar tamales, guacamole, tortillas, frijoles y salsas especiales y platos de arroz (que varían según el país de origen) en la mesa del comedor. Las percepciones culturales comienzan en casa, y los latinos adaptarán el Día de Acción de Gracias para satisfacer la dualidad de su cultura en los EE. UU. y rendir homenaje a sus raíces hispanas. Las familias con niños en edad escolar también son más propensas a entender esta festividad única.
Si bien el Día de Acción de Gracias no se celebra en América Latina, y la verdadera historia de la festividad más allá de los alimentos podría eludir a aquellos que no crecieron con esta lección de historia, los latinos sienten una conexión especial con su significado de agradecimiento y aprecian compartir sus festividades. De hecho, el 76 por ciento de los latinos a menudo celebran los días festivos de los Estados Unidos, y el 86 por ciento de los latinos sienten que es natural vivir y actuar de maneras que son típicas de la cultura estadounidense, según una encuesta de Simmons de primavera de 2011.
Quizás te preguntes, ¿importa si se sirve flan de calabaza en lugar de un pastel de calabaza? ¿Y si el relleno se adereza con adobo, chorizo y pimientos? La creatividad es una gran parte de cualquier comida familiar, y algunas compañías de alimentos atienden a un paladar latino que no está familiarizado con el pavo y otras guarniciones tradicionales del Día de Acción de Gracias.
Lo que importa es que el marketing se utiliza para invitar a los latinos a abrazar plenamente la tradición estadounidense y sus ofertas. En un estudio de comScore, el 35 por ciento de los hispanos recordaron los productos que vieron anunciados, en comparación con el 31 por ciento de los no hispanos. El 31 por ciento de los latinos también disfrutó viendo anuncios, en comparación con solo el 19 por ciento de los no hispanos.
Aunque el crecimiento se ha desacelerado en la industria de bienes de consumo en general, las empresas que proporcionan bienes de consumo envasados para los hispanos han visto una mayor progresión, y los latinos a menudo recurren a los medios de comunicación en español para familiarizarse con las tradiciones estadounidenses.
Las compañías de alimentos y bebidas pueden hacer su parte para ofrecer opciones y alternativas a los consumidores hispanos que combinen las dos culturas. Piense en pavo con relleno de pan de maíz con chorizo o líneas directas de pavo en español, por ejemplo.
Pero no es la comida en sí lo que hace las fiestas. Es la familia, y las tradiciones nuevas y antiguas las que hacen que el día sea tan especial. Al fin y al cabo, una ocasión que combina familia, comida y diversión está destinada a ser apreciada.
Left: The Colombia Live Folkloric at the La Familia Event
The 21st annual La Familia Latino Heritage Celebration was held in the beautiful St. Paul Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul.
The event was produced by Aguilar Productions and presenting sponsors, Comcast, U.S. Bank and Telemundo Minnesota. The celebration featured colorful entertainment and the presentation of the La Familia Latino Heritage Awards. Entertainment included the Donna Pena Mariachi and the Colombia Live Folkloric Dance Group.
DelSur Empanandas provided the delicious treats for the capacity turnouts of attendees.
The La Familia Latino Heritage Awards were presented to leaders in the arts, community, education, business and civic affairs who promote, support and contribute to the Latino community in Minnesota and nationally.
Latin Art in Minnesota-Conversations and What’s Next
Latin Art in Minnesota-Conversations and What’s Next, an Afton Press title edited by William G. Franklin, has received the prestigious 2024 Midwest Book Award.
The book features intimate 1:1 conversations between Minnesota-based Latin artists and leaders in the arts, as well as dramatic photography depicting their art.
THE ARTISTS: Cecilia Cornejo Sotelo, Guillermo Cuellar, Martha Gabriela Driessen, Selma Fernández Richter, Luis Fitch, Alondra Marisol Garza, Carmen Gutiérrez-Bolger, Gustavo Lira García, Dougie Padilla, Alonso Sierralta, Maria Cristina Tavera, Xavier Tavera.
THE INTERVIEWERS: Ta-coumba T. Aiken, Nancy Ariza, Roma Calatayud-Stocks, Carlos Carrasco, Sara Cluggish, Gloria Echevarría Portal, Juan Escobedo, Evonne Gallardo, William Hernández Luege, María Isa, Paola Nuñez-Obetz, Heather Rutledge.
Por Rico Vallejos
El Día del Padre comenzó en Estados Unidos a principios del siglo XX. La primera celebración documentada se hizo en 1908 en Fairmont, West Virginia, impulsada por Grace Golden Clayton. En Monongah, una comunidad cercana, un desastre minero había causado la muerte de más de 250 padres de familia, dejando a casi mil niños sin padre. Fue debido a esta tragedia que Grace le pidió a su pastor que hiciera un servicio conmemorando a los padres. Fue una celebración local y se olvidó rápidamente.
La siguiente celebración del Día del Padre ocurrió el 19 de junio de 1910 en Spokane, Washington, promovida por Sonora Smart Dodd. Sonora era hija de un veterano de la guerra civil que había criado a sus seis hijos como padre soltero, y tras oír hablar de las recientes celebraciones del Día de la Madre, instó a pastores y organizaciones locales a que celebraran también a los padres. Sonora seguiría promoviendo la festividad, consiguiendo la ayuda de empresas que esperaban que se convirtiera en una oportunidad comercial. De hecho, incluso cuando la fiesta empezó a suscitar interés político, el público siguió desconfiando de su posible comercialización excesiva.
En 1938 un grupo de minoristas de ropa masculina de la ciudad de Nueva York fundó el Consejo del Día del Padre, buscando un reconocimiento formal de la festividad, pero recibieron fulminantes ataques en los periódicos. Finalmente, después de varios fallidos proyectos de ley, el presidente Lyndon B. Johnson estableció la festividad con una proclamación en 1966, y seis años después el presidente Richard Nixon la convirtió en una fiesta nacional permanente. Desde 1972, el Día del Padre se celebra a nivel nacional anualmente cada tercer domingo de junio.
Many mothers around the U.S. will celebrate Mother’s Day on May 14th this year, and many Latina moms will be part of these festivities, but they may also be celebrating a second time this month. Why? The fact is that in Mexico, El Salvador, and Guatemala, Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 10th of every year. This is one of the most important Hispanic holidays. Mother’s Day is the largest card-sending occasions for Latinos in the U.S., beating out Christmas and Valentine’s Day. This holiday is also Hispanic’s largest money-sending occasion of the year. Many Latinos who come to the US, will use Mother’s Day as a time to send greetings cards and money transfers back to their mom and families back home.
¡El Día de la Madre es tan especial!
Tan especial que muchas mamás tienen la suerte y el privilegio de celebrar el Día de la Madre dos veces al año. Por el enorme valor que las madres tienen en la unidad familiar hispana, y como en nuestras comunidades celebramos las tradiciones latinas y también las de Estados Unidos, algunas mamás celebran dos Días de la Madre por año. Las familias hispanas somos mayormente matriarcales de tradición, y es por eso que el Día de la Madre es una de nuestras fiestas más importantes. En un hogar latino, las madres ocupan un lugar de honor especial todos los días del año, pero el Día de la Madre es algo superior. Es la fiesta que más nos conecta emocionalmente. Muchas madres de todo Estados Unidos celebrarán el Día de la Madre el domingo 14 de mayo de este año, y muchas mamás latinas formarán parte de estas festividades, pero también es posible que lo celebren el miércoles 10. Claro, porque en México, El Salvador y Guatemala, el Día de la Madre se celebra el 10 de mayo, y es una de las fiestas latinas más importantes. El Día de la Madre es la mayor ocasión de envío de tarjetas para latinos en Estados Unidos, ¡superando a Navidad y San Valentín! Esta fiesta es también la mayor ocasión de envío de dinero del año en las comunidades latinas. Muchos latinos que vienen a Estados Unidos aprovechan el Día de la Madre para enviar tarjetas de felicitación y transferencias de dinero a sus madres y familias.
Founder and President of Bienvenido USA, Abraham Enriquez, leads an organization dedicated to mobilizing, enhancing and empowering Hispanics to promote the principles of individual liberty and sound policy. Enriquez ,was born in Lubbock, TX and graduated from Abilene Christian University in 2018. He was very active in the 2020 elections, working with other conservative organizations to lead voter outreach programs focusing on the Latino Vote. Enriquez has appeared on a variety of media as a Spanish news commentator and is published in several news stories. The past two years, Bienvenido USA has grown with new members and has focused on producing the Visión Conference – Unlocking the Hispanic Power in Business, Culture and Policy, which they launched on February 16-17, in Dallas, TX.
“Find your purpose and charge ahead
at full throttle. Witnessing a passion
project come to life has been an incredible
experience. Our inaugural Visión
Conference united the foremost leaders in
America to delve into the cherished values
of the Hispanic community.”
Abraham Enriquez
“Awesome speakers and panelists,
successful turnout, an impressive launch
of this conference.”
Latino American Today, Owner and Publisher,
Rick Aguilar attended the conference
Beautiful Lights In Rice Park
GLOW HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
Nov 16 - Dec 31 | CHS Field
Stroll through a dozen seasonal scenes featuring over a million holiday lights, sELFie Plaza, Enchanted Forest, Bright Bikes, Tremendous Tree, and so much more! Plan a stop by the GLOW Gift Shop to stock up on unique gifts from local artisans. This brilliant event is fun for the whole family.
EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKET
Nov 24 - Dec 17, Weekends | Union Depot
This European-inspired, open-aired market and magical Christmas Village at Union Depot is the most authentic Christmas Market in Minnesota. More than just a market, you can hop on the holiday carousel, be in awe over the holiday train, and enjoy kids activities and 50 acts of live entertainment.
HOLIDAYS ON THE HILL TOURS
Dec 1 - Dec 31, Th-Sun | James J Hill House
Experience Christmas in 1910 – both upstairs and downstairs – in the sumptuous Gilded Age mansion of railroad titan James J. Hill. Enjoy self-guided access to holiday-themed exhibits and a 60-minute guided tour highlighting holiday stories and memories from both the Hill family and their staff.
NORTH POLE EXPRESS
Dec 1-3 & 7-10 | Union Depot
All aboard! The North Pole Express is chugging into Union Depot the first two weekends of December. Take a short train ride to the North Pole, meet Santa and his elves and enjoy meeting some entertaining characters along the way! Tickets must be reserved in advance.
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING & MOVIE NIGHT
Dec 2 | Union Depot
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the 2012 Union Depot building restoration and the tree lighting includes a special celebration. The evening includes the unveiling of the St. Paul Winter Carnival 2023 button followed by live entertainment from The Mistletones and the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Finish the evening with the classic holiday movie, Elf. The tree will be lit through the remainder of December on the North Plaza, the perfect backdrop for family holiday photos!
HOLIDAY FLOWER SHOW
Dec 2 - Jan 7 | Majorie McNeely Conservatory
The Holiday Flower Show tradition began in 1925 and continues to be the most anticipated and visited flower attraction at the Conservatory. Elegant white poinsettias accented with plants will fill the Sunken Garden with warmth and light.
CHRISTMAS IN GERMANY
Dec 2-3 | Germanic-American Institute
Experience German holiday traditions during his two-day event featuring authentic food and drink, local vendors and fun activities for all ages. An outdoor food market will have beer, hot mulled wine, bratwurst and German cake.
SANTA’S WORKSHOP
Dec 10 | Landmark Center
Get a free photo with Santa, and stay for games, gift making for loved ones, JB Eckert reading classic children’s Christmas stories and a festive holiday setting at Landmark Center.
Francisco "Kico" Rangel
Francisco “Kico” Rangel, “Saxofonista Extraordinaire” que tocó en el área metropolitana de las Ciudades Gemelas durante 70 años, falleció en julio a los 87 años. Kico fue un músico y director de banda único, tocando en el estilo tradicional de la música mexicana sin dejar de tener la habilidad para tocar Jazz, Rock n Roll, música latinoamericana y el estilo big band a lo largo de su carrera.
Kico comenzó su carrera musical a los 15 años, estudiando saxofón con el líder de la banda y saxofonista Joe Medina, uniéndose a su banda antes de cumplir los 16.
En los primeros años de su carrera, Kico y sus cinco hermanas eran intérpretes, cantantes y bailarines, y fueron el orgullo de la comunidad latina de las Ciudades Gemelas. Actuaron durante décadas en innumerables eventos de la comunidad latina y ante miles de fans. A partir de los años 70 Kico formó sus propias bandas y actuó con algunos de los principales músicos de la zona, y antes de sus problemas de salud seguía tocando dos o tres noches a la semana.
En la historia de la comunidad latina de Minnesota, ¡Kico siempre será recordado por interpretar la música tradicional mexicana con orgullo y amor!
Descanse en paz Kico, ¡vaya con Dios!
Senior Airmen (SrA) Myrian Monjaraz Olmos
Senior Airmen (SrA) Myrian Monjaraz Olmos is a member of the 133rd Airlift Wing in the Minnesota Air National Guard. She currently serves as a crew chief for a C-130 Hercules military transport plane. She enlisted in January 2020 and completed her training in July 2021. Later that year she was called to state active duty where she supported the state during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. SrA Monjaraz Olmos currently works full-time for the 133rd Airlift Wing.
Why did you decide to join the Minnesota Air National Guard?
“Straight out of high school I truly didn’t know a single thing about the aviation
industry and how to even begin my journey to ultimately become a commercial pilot.
The Air National Guard trains, pays and helps you to progress however far you want
to go militarily and on the civilian side as well. Being “part-time” military sounded like
the best route for my educational goals & to gain more knowledge about the aviation
world overall.”
How has your upbringing and family values influenced your service?
“I’m the middle child of five daughters, making a family of seven including my parents.
The work ethic that I have today is entirely from what my parents instilled in me in
my younger years. From the day I can remember we were out on the farm milking
cows at the break of dawn and in the evening no matter what we had going on.
My family has always worked together to get where we are today all while caring
about those around us. I see a lot of similarities being in the Minnesota Air National
Guard.”
What would you tell others interested in serving in the Minnesota
Air National Guard?
“You’re going to get the exact effort that you put into this organization, so take
advantage of the opportunities that are open to you. Make the most of whatever
situation that you’re in with those people around you because embracing it is all you
can do. Make those connections, especially in this industry because you can always
learn from someone else and continue to progress in your field. Joining the Minnesota
Air National Guard was one of the best decisions I made and I’m grateful for the
opportunities that I’ve had.”
Happy 10 Years!
We are so pleased to be celebrating our 10th anniversary publishing Latino American Today. We want to thank all our readers, supporters, advertisers and sponsors. Thanks to our amazing staff and contributors for all your efforts and support. We look forward to continuing to provide News and Profiles Connecting the Latino Community in Minnesota!
Special thanks to my Daughter, Gisela Aguilar, our graphic designer, who started with me on this journey 10 years ago.
– Rick Aguilar, Publisher
Latino American Today
Staff:
Graphic Designer: Gisela Aguilar
Photographers: Scott Foreman and Rico Vallejos
Reporter: Claud Santiago
Feliz día de las Madres el 10 de mayo
¡El Día de la Madre es tan especial! Tan especial que muchas mamás tienen la suerte y el privilegio de celebrar el Día de la Madre dos veces al año.
Por el enorme valor que las madres tienen en la unidad familiar hispana, y como en nuestras comunidades celebramos las tradiciones latinas y también las de Estados Unidos, algunas mamás celebran dos Días de la Madre por año. Las familias hispanas somos mayormente matriarcales de tradición, y es por eso que el Día de la Madre es una de nuestras fiestas más importantes. En un hogar latino, las madres ocupan un lugar de honor especial todos los días del año, pero el Día de la Madre es algo superior. Es la fiesta que más nos conecta emocionalmente.
Muchas madres de todo Estados Unidos celebrarán el Día de la Madre el domingo 14 de mayo de este año, y muchas mamás latinas formarán parte de estas festividades, pero también es posible que lo celebren el miércoles 10. Claro, porque en México, El Salvador y Guatemala, el Día de la Madre se celebra el 10 de mayo, y es una de las fiestas latinas más importantes. El Día de la Madre es la mayor ocasión de envío de tarjetas para latinos en Estados Unidos, ¡superando a Navidad y San Valentín! Esta fiesta es también la mayor ocasión de envío de dinero del año en las comunidades latinas. Muchos latinos que vienen a Estados Unidos aprovechan el Día de la Madre para enviar tarjetas de felicitación y transferencias de dinero a sus madres y familias.
Murió Xavier López ‘Chabelo’
By Miguel Sirgado
Sus allegados confirmaron la triste noticia de su fallecimiento en sus redes
El que fuera el mejor amigo de los niños, Xavier López ‘Chabelo’, falleció a los 88 años, y así lo ha aunciado su familia en su cuenta de Twitter.
Con dos sentidos mensajes han dado a conocer la inesperada noticia sobre la partida del comediante mexicano.
“Esta es una mañana muy triste, Xavier López ‘Chabelo’, padre, hermano y esposo nos ha dejado de manera súbita, causa de complicaciones abdominales”, lee uno de los tuits que confirman el suceso, tras un año en el que su salud había pasado por momentos delicados.
Y añadieron: “Con el alma desgarrada y sabiendo que muchos y muchas personas lo han querido por muchos años y que sentirán su partida, les pedimos orar por su descanso y nos den oportunidad de pasar en paz el duelo que embarga a toda nuestra familia. Familia López Miranda.”
Los allegados del querido artista pidieron respeto y las oraciones de quienes le han admirado por tantos años.
Inmediatamente colegas del medio, amigos y seguidores de todo el mundo inundaron su muro de mensajes de despedida y agradecimiento por tantos años de risas, entrega y momentos inolvidables para los grandes y pequeños de la casa.
El artista llevaba tiempo retirado de la televisión y centrado en su recuperación. Su salud en los últimos meses estaba más débil. “Tuvo serios problemas de salud, pero ya los tiene superados y está muy tranquilo en su casa”, explicó Xavier López Miranda, hijo de ‘Chabelo’ al programa mexicano de televisión “De primera mano” (Imagen TV). “Es un hombre grande [de avanzada edad] y naturalmente uno tiene problemas. Los tiene superados y está bien”, resaltó entonces su familia.
El “cuate” más querido de la televisión dejó un legado de amor y risas, además de haber marcado un hito con su inolvidable personaje. Descanse en Paz.
Left: Cesar Chávez: un héroe americano.
César Chávez fue uno de los activistas sociales estadounidenses más dinámicos del siglo XX, llevando a cabo una campaña agresiva pero no violenta en favor de los derechos de los trabajadores agrícolas. Su campaña recibió amplio apoyo, dando a gente de todo el país una nueva apreciación de los orígenes de su lucha. Este tema era algo natural para Chávez: cuando él tenía diez años sus padres perdieron su granja de Arizona en medio de la Gran Depresión, se trasladaron a California, y empezaron a hacer trabajo migratorio en los campos. Chávez vivió en carne propia los rampantes prejuicio e injusticia en las granjas estadounidenses durante las décadas de 1940 y 1950, pero en lugar de sentirse amargado o abatido, vio en la adversidad una fuente de inspiración.
“Sacamos nuestra fuerza de la misma desesperación en la que nos hemos visto obligados a vivir”, dijo Chávez en una ocasión.
Tras catorce años de trabajo agrícola, en 1952 Chávez aceptó un trabajo como organizador de la Community Service Organization, un grupo de derechos civiles de California, y en 1958 ya era su director nacional. Después de cuatro años dejó ese puesto para unirse a Dolores Huerta en la fundación de la Asociación Nacional de Campesinos, hoy United Farm Workers of America (UFW), el primer sindicato campesino exitoso en la historia de Estados Unidos. Esto condujo a su obra más famosa, una serie de huelgas y boicots que consiguieron protecciones sin precedentes para los campesinos.
Chávez murió en 1993, pero su legado sigue siendo recordado todos los años en su cumpleaños, el 31 de marzo. El Día de César Chávez es ahora un feriado oficial en varios estados y, aunque no es feriado nacional, el presidente Obama lo ha proclamado día de “servicio, comunidad y educación”.
Left: The 2023 St. Paul Winter Carnival Royal Family
On Friday night, January 26th, the 2023 St. Paul Winter Carnival royal family was crowned at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.
King Boreas LXXXVI: Leo E. Lewis III of Eden Prairie, sponsored by Lewis Sports Foundation
Aurora, Queen of Snows: Liv Swenson of Inver Grove Heights, sponsored by White Bear Country Inn & Rudy’s Red Eye Grill
Prime Minister: Gary Schaak of Minneapolis, sponsored by Hamernick’s Interior Solutions/Flooring Superstores
Titan, Prince of the North Wind: Dave Schmidt of Lino Lakes, sponsored by O’Neill Electric, Inc
North Wind Princess: Rahila Hungiapuko, sponsored by Majestic and Silver Threads
Euros, Prince of the East Wind: Lew Vogel of Cottage Grove, sponsored by LCS Company
East Wind Princess: Emily Maestas of Woodbury, sponsored by Hero Home Services
Zephyrus, Prince of the West Wind: Mike Cummings of Farmington, sponsored by Boar’s Head Leather & Coulee Bank
West Wind Princess: Dee Barrett of Fridley, sponsored by River Run Team of ReMax Results – Greg Kuntz
Notos, Prince of the South Wind: Dennis Boe of Woodbury, sponsored by Lisa Boe – Homes with a Boe at Keller Williams Premier Realty
South Wind Princess: Jocelyn O’Neill of Forest Lake, sponsored by Ideal Printers
An Afton Press title with support from the Minnesota Historical Society and distribution by University of Minnesota Press, Latin Art in Minnesota–Conversations and What’s Next is a richly illustrated and personal presentation of the lives and careers of twelve Latin artists in Minnesota. Exploring crucial themes of immigration, identity, and the preservation of traditions in diaspora, the artists share their stories and experiences in candid interviews with Latino art leaders. These casual conversations reveal a unique and intimate perspective of this vibrant arts community.
BOOK EVENTS:
Watch for 2023 book events. You’re invited to the next event, moderated by editor/curator William Gustavo Franklin and White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA), in conversation with some of the artists featured in Latin Art in Minnesota.
DATE/TIME:
Thursday 12 January 2023
7:00-8:30 PM
CLASS ID:
GSLA
FREE with registration
LOCATION:
WBCA
REGISTRATION and details:
https://whitebeararts.org/inspire_events/gsla-latin-art-in-minnesotaconversations-
with-the-artists.
PRE-ORDER:
University of Minnesota Press: https://www.upress.umn.edu/bookdivision/
books/latin-art-in-minnesota SUPPORT/SPONSORSHIPS: www.TinyURL.com/LatinArtMN
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Georgia Finnegan, Afton Press Development Manager, at Georgia@aftonpress.com, mobile 612-791-0285.
Left: Chamber President, John Pacheco, Mary Hernandez, Maya Santamaria
By Claud Santiago
The Latino Chamber of Commerce Minnesota held their annual Business Awards Gala on October 18th at the Granada Theater in Minneapolis. Over 200 business owners, community activists and corporate supporters attended the event. It was a successful networking gathering, highlighted by the awards presentations for 2022. Here are the award recipients:
Latino Entrepreneur of the Year: Luis Fitch, Uno Branding
Employee Resource Group of the Year: 3M
Latino Business of the Year: Food Staffing Services LLC Owner, Miguel Zarate
Latino Public Official of the Year: MN State Senator,
Patricia Torres-Ray
Latino Non Profit of the Year: Latino Lead
Chamber Partner of the Year: E. Guille Garza, Keller-Williams
Honorable Mention: Luis Olvera,
NAHREP Twin Cities
Jose Martinez from U.S. Bank and Rick Aguilar
A wonderful evening for the Latino Community!
The 19th annual La Familia Latino Heritage Celebration was held on September 29, at the St. Paul Landmark Center. A wonderful evening featuring entertainment and an awards ceremony honoring Latino Achievers! Thanks, to the Presenting Sponsors Comcast and U.S. Bank and NAHREP Twin Cities. The event was produced by Aguilar Productions.
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
Rubén Rosario (pictured left)
Journalist, author, and award-winning columnist for the Pioneer Press
Augustine "Willie" Dominguez
Latino community leader, radio host, and former State legislator
Donna Peña
Singer, songwriter, and producer
Colonel Eduardo Suárez
Director of Communications, Minnesota National Guard
Rigo Aguirre
Presidents of the National Latino Peace Officers Association - Minnesota Chapter
Minnesota State Parks and Trails
Latino Outreach
Latino Community Leaders to be Awarded
By Claud Santiago
La Familia Latino Heritage Celebration event will take place Thursday, September 29, 2022 from 6:00pm - 9:00pm at St. Paul's Historic Landmark Center, 75 W 5th Street, St. Paul, MN. La Familia will present the 2022 Latino Heritage award to leaders in the community, education, business, and the arts, who support, promote, and contribute to the growth and success of the Minnesota Latino community!
Rubén Rosario (pictured above)
Journalist, author, and award-winning columnist for the Pioneer Press
Augustine "Willie" Dominguez
Latino community leader, radio host, and former State legislator
Donna Peña
Singer, songwriter, and producer
Colonel Eduardo Suárez
Director of Communications, Minnesota National Guard
Rigo Aguirre
Presidents of the National Latino Peace Officers Association - Minnesota Chapter
Minnesota State Parks and Trails
Latino Outreach
Inflation Affects Latino Communities
By Claud Santiago
Latinos have been drivers of economic growth in America for years. However, Latino businesses and consumers often feel the pain of rising inflation more than other groups of Americans. Here are a few reasons why.
The effects of inflation on Latino businesses
First, our community opens businesses at a faster rate than other population groups in almost all industries. And although these Latino-owned firms grow revenues faster than your average American business, inflation rates are threatening companies’ buying power. Decreased buying power caused by inflation leads to skyrocketing costs for supplies and services needed to run a business.
In short, rising inflation is leading to decreased profits and increased spending for Latino business owners.
Inflation’s effect on Hispanic consumers
According to a Bank of America research report, Hispanic households spend a higher percentage of their income on staples — like food, gas, and energy than other Americans. However, these necessities are more prone to price increases than many other consumer goods.
The result? On average, Latinos consumers are harder hit by the impacts of inflation than many other Americans. To decrease the cost of living for the Hispanic community, inflation must be addressed.
The first annual Twin Cities Diversity Homeownership Fair was held on June 11th at the Neighborhood House/Wellstone Center. The event was a partnership of the following real estate organizations, AREAA, NAREB Twin Cities, Alliance Minnesota and NAHREP Twin Cities Chapter.
Presenting Sponsor was U.S. Bank. The goal of the Fair was to increase opportunities for sustainable homeownership through meaningful connections, education and resources. Thanks to all the sponsors and vendors for supporting and participating in the important event!
Left: Rick Aguilar, with House member Rep. Eric Lucero
By: Claud Santiago
Local Twin Cities Latino Americans participated in the Republican State Convention that was held in Rochester, MN in mid-May. Thousands of Minnesota statewide delegates gathered to select the candidates for Governor, Attorney General, Auditor and Secretary of State. The elections will be held in November 2022. The Latino vote in Minnesota has grown dramatically over the past decades and today there are over 100,000 eligible Latino voters in the Twin Cities metro area. Generally Latinos are thought to be similar to the Black voters who vote as a bloc for Democrats. Pollsters and pundits who spoke of a Latino “bloc” that would vote reflexively for Democrats in the 2020 presidential election came to discover it did not exist. Latino voters chose President Donald Trump in numbers higher than experts expected. In Minnesota, where Latinos are a growing political force, exit poll data analyzed by the Washington Post put the vote at 38 percent for Trump, greater than the 33 percent he received nationally from Latino voters.
Meanwhile, President Biden has been mired in a stretch of disappointing polls, but recent surveys suggest he’s having particular trouble keeping the support of Latino voters. A Quinnipiac University poll found that just 26 percent of Latino voters surveyed approved of Biden’s job performance, the lowest of any demographic group. “Democrats have to learn that Latinos aren’t looking for a handout, we looking for opportunity, we’ll work for our success” stated Rick Aguilar, Chair of the Hispanic Republican Assembly of Minnesota. “Latinos are worried about the same issues as all Americans, the economy, inflation, crime, healthcare and education!
Left: Andy Noble, President’s Award recipient
The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals – Twin Cities Chapter held their Installation Gala on March 31, 2022 at the Five Event Center, in Minneapolis. The gala was a sold out event that brought together the twin cities real estate community to celebrate the installation of new officers for the organization. Ed Luna, President of Luna Home Loans, will be the new President for 2022.
Rick Aguilar and 2022 NAHREP President, Ed Luna
The event included the presentation of the NAHREP President’s Award to Andy Noble, Keller Williams Realty and Rick Aguilar, President of Aguilar Productions, for their support and commitment to the growth and success of the association. “It was an honor to receive the award and share in the amazing success of this organization” stated Rick Aguilar!
Cesar Chavez was one of the 20th century's most dynamic American social activists, waging an aggressive but nonviolent campaign for farm workers' rights that drew widespread support and gave people across the country a new appreciation for the origins of their fight. This issue came naturally to Chavez, who was ten years old when his parents lost their Arizona farm amid the Great Depression, moved to California and took up migrant farm labor. Chavez experienced first-hand the rampant prejudice and injustice on American farms during the 1940s and '50s, but rather than feeling bitter or downtrodden, he saw adversity as a source of inspiration.
"We draw our strength from the very despair in which we have been forced to live," Chavez once said.
After fourteen years of farm labor, Chavez took a job in 1952 as an organizer for the Community Service Organization, a California civil rights group, and by 1958 he was its national director. He left four years later to join Dolores Huerta in founding the National Farm Workers Association, now United Farm Workers of America (UFW), the first successful farm-labor union in U.S. history. That led to his most famous work, a series of strikes and boycotts that won unprecendented protections for farm workers.
Chavez died in 1993, but his legacy is still remembered every yera on his birthday, March 31. Cesar Chavez Day is now an official holiday in several states, and although it's not a federal holiday, President Obama has proclaimed it a day of "service, community and education."
Pictured left: With Rick Aguilar, Queen of Winter, Chrisy Ana and King Boreas Rex the 76th, (2012) Steve Cortinas, who is he first Latino King Boreas in Winter Carnival history! King Cortinas is originally from San Angelo, TX and has lived and worked in the Twin Cities for over 30 years. Hail Boreas!
Queen of Winter, Christy Ana and Latino American Today, Publisher, Rick Aguilar attended the Royal Coronation at the Saint Paul RiverCentre on January 28. Hundreds of attendees enjoyed a wonderful evening of entertainment, a delicious dinner and the crowning of the St. Paul Winter Carnival Royal Family.
Winter Carnival Magic! What a wonderful night at the Coronation. The Carnival is a great St. Paul tradition! Hail Winter!
Queens Meeting! Juliette Francis, Former Queen of Snows and MN Science Museum, Vice President of People and Museum Culture with Queen of Winter, Christy Ana!
Winter Carnival Coronation. With Rick Aguilar, Queen Christy Ana and Jimmy Francis, Mayor of South St. Paul and former Prime Minister of the Winter Carnival. Fun time!
A skier at the Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener in Maple Grove MN this past December
By: Christy Ana
The Minnesota Nordic Ski Opener was held at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove MN on December 11, 2021. It was an awesome day to kick off winter after the first snowstorm in the Twin Cities. Hundreds of skiers enjoyed the beautiful weather, including a group of Twin Cities Latinos who decided to participate even though many of them had never skied before.
They visited the ski village and shopped at the Nordic ski store, embracing the weather and having fun. Lessons, rentals and fees were free to all skiers during the opener. The Latino group had a wonderful time and look forward to more skiing outings this Winter. Elm Creek Park Reserve is located at 12400 James Deane Parkway in Maple Grove, MN.
Luis Fitch, Co-founder of UNO Branding, Latino Hispanic Graphic Design
By Claud Santiago
Luis Fitch, Co-founder of UNO Branding, Latino Hispanic Graphic Design, in Minneapolis, is known for his love affair with the Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead Art and the Mexican holiday, that takes place on the 1st of November. You can see that in his design and creative he produces for Fortune 500 companies and numerous clients, since he founded UNO Branding in 1999. Fitch was born in Tijuana, Mexico, as a young teenager he started collecting stamps, he was fascinated with the history, visuals and culture that are involved in designing stamps. After moving to San Diego with his family at the age of 20, Fitch went on to attend the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California.
Fast forward to 2018, Fitch had a collection of his Día de los Muertos art on display at the National Mexican Museum in Chicago, IL, as part of that holiday celebration. One of the attendees at the museum was, Antonio Alcalá, an art director at Alexandria’s Studio A and one of the only four art directors nationwide currently entrusted by the United States Postal Service (USPS) with overseeing stamp design.
Alcalá’s role at the USPS included working on ideas for “new stamps” and searching for creative artists who could design the art work. When the idea for the “Day of the Dead” stamp came to Alcalá in 2019, he remembered Luis Fitch and his Día de los Muertos art and he knew, that was what he was looking for. “I got lucky” Fitch was quoted in an article about the USPS stamps and how he got the gig.
Fitch was contacted by Alcalá and that’s how he was commissioned to design and illustrate the first-ever “Day of the Dead” USPS stamps. The entire process of submitting the design to getting it actually printed and sent for sale at USPS took about two years. The stamps have been a source of pride for the Mexican community and sales nationwide have been great. So, have the sales of Target Brand: Día de los Muertos Collection designed by Luis Fitch, that has created an amazing demand across the country.
So, the American Dream happens, with hard work, talent, passion and a little luck. Congratulations, Luis Fitch.
Actor Jens Tulio
As I make my move to Los Angeles to pursue my dream of working as a professional actor, I reflect on my identity and how it shapes who I am. My name is Jens Tulio, illustrating my unique heritage and cultural backgrounds – I am Guatemalan-Danish, a combination that could only happen “five banks ago” per parental sources. It’s an identity that I’ve struggled with because of how the world interprets how I look. It’s confusing at first glance, sure, but it’s something I hold closely because it will directly affect my progress in entertainment.
One of my concerns as a Latino actor is our dismal representation in nearly every critical job category tracked by the 2020 UCLA Hollywood Diversity Report – it covers everyone from actors to writers and production crew members to executives. Despite making up 17% of the nation’s population and over a third of the state of California, the numbers remain stubbornly stagnant for Latino actors. According to the latest report, Latines’ share of lead acting roles was 6.6% on scripted broadcast shows, 5.5% in cable and 4.0% in digital in 2018–19. Among all TV acting roles in the past two years, Latinos’ best representation was in broadcast shows during the 2017–18 season, but even then, they made up just 6.4% of casts. Without getting too academic, I wanted to use these statistics to illustrate how stratified this space I’m entering really is.
Improving representation is an admirable goal for Hollywood, however how Latines are represented in media is, in my opinion, much more vital to our continued success in entertainment. I want to be a part of this movement, one that prioritizes stories being written, directed, produced, and acted entirely by Latines. I want to explore the struggles of multi-racial, multi-ethnic households and what makes our stories unique. Above all, I want to be me and to be able to share that with the world. I’m excited for the stories I’ll get to tell and the people I’ll get to work with. There’s nothing like being a Latino actor in LA and I’m looking forward to the journey ahead.
“That Jens is talented is true without question, but that is not why I regard him so highly. Jens is that rare young artist who is wholly committed to doing all the hard work it takes to succeed. He is dogged in his pursuit of his craft and seeking out opportunities to work. Jens is not only committed to the creative aspects of his work as an actor. Equally as important, if not more so, is the fact that he is clear-eyed about the work and commitment it takes to foster and nurture a career in the business of acting. He is the most enterprising actor with whom I have ever worked in over 30 years of university teaching.”
– Annamaria Pileggi, Professor of Drama,Citations Hunt, Darnell; Ramón, Ana-Christina. (2020) Hollywood Diversity Report 2020, 1-76. https://socialsciences.ucla.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/UCLA-Hollywood-Diversity-Report-2020-Television-10-22-2020.pdf
Kalyn Hove Vice President of Comcast Business in the Twin Cities Region
Comcast announced that Kalyn Hove, currently Vice President of Comcast Business in the Twin Cities Region, has been appointed to Regional Senior Vice President of the Twin Cities Region. Effective today, she replaces J.D. Keller, who now leads Comcast’s Mountain West Region. In this role, Hove is the top executive responsible for customer experience, sales, operations and financial performance for the region.
Hove will report to Rich Jennings, President of Comcast’s West Division, and will oversee Comcast’s employees and operations serving customers and businesses in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Kansas and Missouri.
Kalyn has led the Comcast Business team in the Twin Cities for seven years. Her Comcast Business team is a Power Rankings leader, has achieved four consecutive years as #1 in year-over-year revenue growth for the company. Before joining Comcast, Kalyn was Global Vice President – Collaboration at Lumen (formerly Global Crossing), where her team was a top performing business unit.
“Comcast’s Twin Cities Region is leading the way by offering innovative products that connect people and businesses to what matters most, and I’m delighted to be the team’s new leader,” said Kalyn Hove, Regional Senior Vice President, Comcast Twin Cities.
“One of Kalyn’s greatest strengths is her people-focused leadership style, providing support and feedback in a way that uplifts and drives individual and team success. In addition, with more than 30 years living in the Twin Cities area, she knows and is strongly connected to the local community,” said Jennings.
Among Kalyn’s accolades are being named as one of the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal’s Women in Business honorees and one of the 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in Minnesota from Minnesota Monthly. She is a graduate of South Dakota State University and has completed executive education courses at both Harvard Business School and The Wharton School.
Las vacunas contra el COVID-19 son seguras y eficaces.
Por Stay Safe MN
Las vacunas están diseñadas para prevenir enfermedades. Las vacunas contra COVID-19 le indican a su cuerpo cómo reconocer y combatir el virus del COVID-19. Las vacunas contra COVID-19 no pueden transmitir COVID-19. Las vacunas contra COVID-19 son muy buenas para protegerlo de la enfermedad de COVID-19. Si se enferma con COVID-19 después de haber sido vacunado, es menos probable que se sienta muy mal o que tenga que ir al hospital.
Las vacunas contra el COVID-19 han sido sometidas a pruebas con diversos grupos y con el debido cuidado antes de autorizar su uso de emergencia. Decenas de miles de negros, latinoamericanos, indios americanos y asiáticos participaron en los estudios de las vacunas de Pfizer, Moderna y Johnson & Johnson. Sabemos que estas comunidades, al igual que las de discapacitados y las de lesbianas, gays, bisexuales, transgénero y homosexuales (LGBTQ+) tienden a estar excluidas de los beneficios de la medicina, han sido y siguen siendo víctimas de racismo, traumas médicos y abuso. Estos factores empeoran el impacto que tiene el COVID-19 sobre estas comunidades y resaltan la importancia de que la vacuna es segura para todos. Esta es la razón por la que los investigadores médicos siguen supervisando la seguridad de las vacunas, incluso cuando ya se ha vacunado a la población general.
¿Por qué debería vacunarse contra el COVID-19?
• Para protegerse del COVID-19.LA VACUNA NO TIENE
• ConservantesQué esperar al vacunarse
• Personas capacitadas para vacunar lo guiarán durante el proceso, le hablarán sobre los posibles riesgos o efectos secundarios y responderán sus preguntas.
Team pictured above (from left to right, top to bottom): Jeanett Garcia, Margarita Ruiz, Sylvette Lopez-Ruth, Marcie Babcock, Marisol Chiclana-Ayala, and Mateo Frumholtz.
By Minnesota Department of Health
The need for engagement
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has prioritized sharing accurate information with Minnesotans
on how to keep themselves and their families safe. This messaging includes topics ranging from wearing masks, to getting tested for COVID-19,
to where to find a COVID-19 vaccine. Because these messages can sometimes change quickly due to the rapidly evolving nature of the crisis, it has been
vitally important to have adaptive and responsive communications systems in place that reach all Minnesotans in culturally and linguistically appropriate
ways.
Successful public health partnerships
For the Latinx community, a significant part of MDH’s response has been orchestrated by its Latinx Community Liaison Team – Jeanett Garcia and Marcie
Babcock, who co-lead the team, as well as Mateo Frumholtz, Margarita Ruiz, Marisol Chiclana-Ayala, and Sylvette Lopez-Ruth (pictured below). Throughout
the last year, they have worked tirelessly to advocate for the Latinx community’s needs during the COVID-19 response – quickly adapting, pivoting,
and being creative to respond to shifting priorities when needed. When COVID-19 case data began showing increasing cases in the Latinx community
last summer, the team pushed for and worked with community organizations serving the Latinx community to hold multiple community testing events.
For Jeanett, one of their biggest successes was collaborating with faith-based leaders in Minnesota and the City of Minneapolis to hold COVID-19 testing
events for the community at Sagrado Corazon, which led to a huge turnout from the community.
The team’s top priority throughout the pandemic has been to engage their community and develop genuine and authentic relationships with partners and organizations serving the Latinx community. From the very beginning, the team, originally led by Marisol, conducted outreach to leaders across the state including government agencies, local public health, nonprofits, and other community based organizations to share resources and discuss concerns in the Latinx community at biweekly meetings. These meetings let the team continually look for ways to let community members’ voices shine through MDH contracts and partnerships.
Continuing to connect the dots
Today, the team plays an important role in addressing vaccine concerns in the Latinx community.
They provide a space to engage creatively and authentically with the community, especially those
who do not have access to internet or social media. Of note, more than 82% of Latinx adults
ages 45 to 64 have been vaccinated! However, there is still work left to do. Only 34% of Latinx
community members between the ages of 15 and 44 are vaccinated.
The team and MDH’s partners continue to look for ways to create a safe and comfortable environment for members of the community to get vaccinated, such as successfully advocating that no government identification or documentation should be required for COVID-19 testing or vaccination, and ensuring vaccination events are flexible in timing to accommodate community member’s schedules. One sentiment repeatedly echoed by the team is “bringing vaccination sites to the community” and placing a large emphasis on creating a comfortable, safe, and trusted space for vaccination.
This last year has shown again and again the importance of authentically engaging with community partners and community members themselves. The team hopes that MDH will continue its commitment to authentic engagement and invest staff time to continue building and maintaining community relationships. While there is much to celebrate, the team also recognizes the work that can, and must, continue in order to protect the health of their community.
Rudy Aguilar Sr.
By Rick Aguilar
“I came to Minnesota from Mexico, and I lived the American Dream.”
—Rudy Aguilar Sr.
Rudy Aguilar Sr. passed on Monday, April 26, 2021, at his home, in peace, with his family present. He was a wonderful man, who loved his family, friends, and his country. Rudy was 97 years old and through the years, he shared his joyful love of life with his family and many friends, here in Minnesota and in Mexico. Rudy and the Aguilar family were honored by Minnesota Governor, Tim Pawlenty, in his remarks at the Head of State Dinner Honoring Mexican President Vincente Fox, at the Minneapolis Convention Center on Friday, June 18th, 2004. Here are excerpts from the speech:
“The proud story of Pedro and Lugarda Aguilar reflects the motives and values of Mexicans coming to America and Minnesota. They were among the thousands who left their homes and all they held dear for the promise of a brighter future 2,000 miles and another world away. In 1939, the Aguilar’s arrived in Blue Earth, Minnesota, bringing with them few possessions but the very best tools for building any future: Strong character, a strong family, a strong work ethic, and a mighty will to succeed. So strong was their love for their newly adopted country that brothers Rudy and Arturo Aguilar volunteered to fight during World War II, though they spoke little English and could offer no proof of citizenship.
Rudy was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge and received a Purple Heart. Arturo served in the Pacific. Later generations of Aguilars also would defend this nation. Louis served in the Korean War and Rick Aguilar served in Vietnam. We gave them opportunity, and they gave America service and sacrifice. It personifies the best of America’s friendship with Mexico. Rick Aguilar is my good friend and a respected leader in business and politics. He, Rudy, Arturo, and Louis are here tonight. Join me in recognizing this amazing family. They are remarkable people, to be sure, but they’re not unique. Thousands of Minnesotans of Mexican heritage have made—and continue to make—similar sacrifices and similar contributions to our nation and state.” —Tim Pawlenty, Governor of Minnesota - 2003-2011
¿Está usted o alguien que conoce teniendo problemas?
La pandemia ha afectado bastante a muchas personas y por una muy buena razón. Muchas personas han perdido su trabajo. Muchas personas se han enfermado. Y demasiadas personas han muerto.
Sentirse estresado es normal. Pero para algunos, el miedo y la ansiedad sobre una enfermedad pueden ser abrumadores. Nuestros niños son motivo de especial preocupación. Es demasiado pronto para saber cuál será el impacto total en nuestros hijos o cuántos de ellos pueden enfrentar un trauma.
En momentos como este, es importante hablar con nuestros amigos y seres queridos. Para reconocer lo difícil que ha sido. Para apoyarnos unos a otros; ayudarnos unos a otros como comunidad y estar allí para nuestras familias.
Todos necesitamos ayuda a veces. Y está bien pedir ayuda.
Hay ayuda gratuita disponible. El Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Minnesota ha añadido una página web para hacer frente a la COVID-19: mn.gov/dhs/coping-with-crisis. La página web y los materiales están en inglés y español. Encontrará consejos para reducir el estrés, además de una amplia gama de recursos, incluidos lugares donde puede obtener ayuda en persona o por teléfono.
No está solo. Juntos superaremos este momento. Al obtener la ayuda que necesitamos, podemos estar ahí para la gente que nos importa.
Conozca los signos de estrés en usted y en sus seres queridos, y sepa cuándo obtener ayuda.
Cuídese
• Manténgase saludable: coma alimentos saludables, evite demasiada cafeína y
alcohol, y haga bastante ejercicio y descanse.
• Use el tiempo libre para relajarse: coma una buena comida, lea, escuche música
o hable con la familia.
• Hable con frecuencia sobre sus sentimientos con sus seres queridos y amigos
• Reconozca y preste atención a los primeros indicios de estrés.
• Dedique tiempo para renovar su espíritu a través de la meditación, la oración o para ayudar a otros en necesidad.
Cuide a los niños
• Dese tiempo para estar con su niño cada día y dele a su niño muchos abrazos.
• Escuche a su niño: permita que hable sobre cosas que le pueden estar causando
estrés.
• Asegúrese de que su niño tenga periodos de juego y periodos tranquilos.
• Controle la exposición a las noticias. Busque ayuda cuando los problemas parezcan ser graves o interfieran con la vida diaria.
Hable con el médico de su niño o con un consejero.
Cómo obtener ayuda
• Un buen lugar para comenzar es Warmlines MN de mentalhealthmn.org Llame al 651-288-0400 o al 877-404-3190, o envíe un mensaje de texto con la palabra “support” al 85511.
• Si alguien está teniendo una crisis de salud mental, llame a **CRISIS (274747) desde un teléfono celular. En mn.gov/dhs/coping-with-crisis también encontrará una lista de números a los que puede llamar a través de teléfonos fijos.
• También se pueden enviar mensajes de texto. Comuníquese con la línea de texto de crisis enviando un mensaje de texto con la palabra “MN” al 741 741.
Mantente seguro MN
El Departamento de Salud de Minnesota (MDH) trabaja en asociación con las comunidades para proporcionar pruebas de COVID-19 seguras y gratuitas in situ en áreas con presencia de brotes, aumento de casos, u otras barreras para acceder a los sitios de pruebas existentes.
Revise esta página para mantenerse al día sobre las ubicaciones y fechas de los nuevos sitios de pruebas en la comunidad. Para obtener actualizaciones regulares sobre COVID-19 por correo electrónico, incluidas las notificaciones de nuevos eventos de pruebas en la comunidad, Subscribe to COVID-19 Updates (suscríbase a Actualizaciones sobre COVID-19).
Le recomendamos encarecidamente que agende su hora a través del enlace de registro que aparece para cada ubicación.
• Registrarse con anticipación ayuda a evitar largas colas. Es posible que las personas que vengan sin una cita tengan que volver más tarde u otro día.
Quién puede hacerse la prueba
• Las pruebas son gratuitas y no necesita tener seguro ni identificación.
• Puede hacerse la prueba incluso si no tiene síntomas de COVID-19. Por ejemplo, si cree que ha estado en contacto con alguien que tiene COVID-19 o si recibió una llamada del departamento de salud
informándole de que pudo haber estado expuesto(a) al virus.
Qué traer
• Use una máscara o una cubierta para la cara si es posible.
• Traiga su mensaje de texto o correo electrónico de confirmación si es posible.
• No es necesario que muestre su identificación o información de
seguro médico.
Qué esperar en el evento
• Si solicitó una cita por teléfono o en línea, el personal le pedirá ver su texto o correo electrónico de confirmación, o bien puede decirle al personal su nombre, fecha de nacimiento y dirección.
• Si no pidió una cita con anticipación, un miembro del personal lo registrará cuando llegue al evento. Deberá proporcionar su nombre
e información de contacto. Esta información se proporciona al
personal para que pueda ponerse en contacto con usted con los resultados de su prueba.
• Llegue al sitio cerca de la hora de su visita programada. El personal lo recibirá al llegar y le dirá adónde ir. Los sitios de prueba están diseñados para asegurar el distanciamiento social y una limpieza adecuada para su seguridad.
Después de que le hagan la prueba
• Siga estas instrucciones: Quédese en casa y apartado de los demás si: Tiene síntomas. Alguien en su casa tiene COVID-19. Ha estado cerca de alguien con COVID-19.
• Si no tiene síntomas y no ha estado cerca de alguien con COVID-19, no necesita quedarse en casa mientras espera los resultados de su prueba. Use una mascarilla y permanezca a 6 pies de distancia las personas que no viven con usted. Si comienza a sentir cualquier síntoma, quédese en casa y apartado de los otros.
• Si su prueba es negativa: Recibirá un mensaje de texto y/o correo electrónico notificándole que puede acceder a sus resultados en línea. Si no tiene acceso a Internet, habrá un número al que puede llamar para obtener los resultados.
• Si su prueba es positiva: Recibirá una llamada telefónica de la línea de enfermería. Asegúrese de contestar su teléfono.
• Los resultados de su prueba no se comparten con nadie fuera de su departamento de salud pública. No compartimos su información con otras agencias gubernamentales, empleadores o proveedores de
cuidado de la salud.
Si su prueba es positiva
Si la prueba es positiva para COVID-19, un profesional de enfermería le informará de ello. Después de ser notificado, el equipo de respuesta a COVID-19 del Departamento de Salud de Minnesota lo llamará para proporcionarle a usted y a los miembros de su hogar información importante para su recuperación. Es importante contestar la llamada.
Durante la llamada, se hablará sobre:
• Los resultados de la prueba y lo que significan.
• Un plan para todo el hogar para ayudar a evitar que otros se enfermen
y para asegurarse de que tiene lo que necesita. Esto incluye
información sobre cómo apartarse de los demás (aislarse) y lo que las otras personas de su hogar deben hacer, lo que incluye quedarse en casa (cuarentena). Proporcionaremos apoyo adicional para su hogar, si los recursos lo permiten, en términos de alimentos, máscaras, desinfectante de manos, y otros artículos que podrían ser de ayuda para este período estimado de dos semanas en el que tendrá que permanecer en casa.
• Cualquier persona que haya estado cerca de usted (a veces llamados “contactos cercanos”) desde los dos días antes de que le hicieran la prueba o desde que comenzó a sentirse enfermo(a). Estas personas podrían haber estado expuestas al virus. El departamento de salud llamará a estas personas con instrucciones. Su nombre no se
mencionará. Obtenga más información sobre el Tracing COVID-19 (Rastreo de COVID-19).
Use su cubrebocas
Muchas familias en Minnesota están enfrentando dificultades debido a la pandemia por COVID-19. Para muchos de nosotros, sostener los gastos relacionados con la atención y servicios de salud pueden ser muy difíciles de afrontar. Si usted o algún familiar y conocidos están afrontando dificultades económicas debido a no contar con suficiente dinero, o si perdió su empleo, o sus horas de trabajo fueron reducidas; hay opciones para acceder ayuda disponible.
Los programas de salud pública de Minnesota ofrecen cobertura de salud a los residentes de Minnesota con ingresos económicos bajos o sin ingresos económicos. El Departamento de Servicios Humanos (DHS) tiene una página web nueva con información en Español sobre los programas de salud pública en Minnesota mn.gov/dhs/health-care-coverage/spanish. Invitamos a aquellos que necesiten cobertura de salud a preguntar si califican para Asistencia Médica o MinnesotaCare.
La mayoría de los residentes de Minnesota pueden solicitar en línea a través de MNsure.org. Sin embargo, sabemos que navegar los los seguros de salud puede ser complicado y por lo tanto, usted no tiene por qué descifrarlos por su cuenta. Estas son algunas de las opciones para obtener más información sobre nuestros programas de salud.
• Conéctese con un navegador en su comunidad para obtener ayuda para inscribirse. Podras encontrar un navegador que habla Inglés o Español en
mnsure.org/help/find-assister/find-assister.jsp.
• Comuníquese con su oficina local del condado.
• Si tiene alguna discapacidad, llame al Centro de Discapacitados de MN (Disability Hub MN) al 866-333-2466.
• Si tiene 65 años o más, puede llamar a la línea de enlace de la tercera edad (Senior LinkAge Line) al 800-333-2433.
¿No califica debido a su condición de inmigración?
La Asistencia Médica de Emergencia (Emergency Medical Assistance, EMA) ofrece cobertura para la atención y el tratamiento de afecciones médicas de emergencia a todo residente de Minnesota que no tenga una estatus de inmigración que le permita tener acceso a Asistencia Médica. EMA cubre aquellas afecciones médicas que de no tratarse en un período de 24 a 48 horas podrían:
• Poner su salud en grave riesgo;
• Ocasionar un deterioro grave de las funciones corporales; o
• Ocasionar un colapso grave de alguno de los órganos o partes del
cuerpo.
Usted puede solicitar la Asistencia Médica de Emergencia a través de su oficina local del condado.
Prueba gratis de COVID-19 si no tiene seguro
Muchos residentes de Minnesota que no cuentan con un seguro de salud pueden realizarse la prueba de COVID-19 de forma gratuita. Aprende más a mn.gov/dhs/health-care-coverage/spanish.
Todos requerimos ayuda en muchas ocasiones, estamos aqui para ayudarte.
Matt Anderson
Assistant Commissioner and Medicaid Director, Health Care Administration, Minnesota Department of Human Services
HD52A is made up of West St Paul, Mendota, Lilydale, and the northern parts of Mendota Heights and South St. Paul.
By Claud Santiago
Mariah de la Paz the GOP endorsed candidate for House of Representative in 52A has been very busy these pass months, she works in the senior health care system. “I’m planning to bring my knowledge of working with seniors in this Covid-19 crisis to the State Capitol when I win this election” stated de la Paz. Mariah who lives in West St. Paul is a conservative who has been active in politics for many years and in 2018 served as a campaign manager for a congressional race in St. Paul. She is a busy single mother who still finds time to be active in the community working with various organizations to encourage Latino youth to stay in school and graduate.
52A is home to a large Latino community: West St. Paul is currently made up of 22% Latinos, South St. Paul 14%, and 4% in Mendota.
Mariah is running for office because she believes that the current DFL 52A incumbent house of representative Rick Hansen, who has held office since 2004 has been part of the DFL administration who has given us the failed MNLAR and MNSURE systems costing tax payers millions and millions of dollars. Hansen is part of this failed leadership!
Our recent “civil unrest” in the Twin Cities that cost our business community millions and millions of dollars in damage and looting, was because of the failed current administration, Governor Walz and the mayors in St. Paul and Minneapolis. We never hear from our current house representative Rick Hansen about any of these issues. In 52A there was significant damage and looting.
“I am running for office so that our residents, business owners and families in 52A have a house representative who is for a smaller and more responsible organized government, reduced taxes and less regulations so that more businesses open, better schools and a well-funded police department for safer communities. I look forward to meeting with our community in the upcoming campaign to ask for their vote and to give me the opportunity to serve them at the State Capitol.”
For more information, visit: https://www.delapazforhouse.com
Muchas familias en Minnesota están enfrentando dificultades debido a la pandemia por COVID-19. Para muchos de nosotros, sostener los gastos relacionados con la atención y servicios de salud pueden ser muy difíciles de afrontar. Si usted o algún familiar y conocidos están afrontando dificultades económicas debido a no contar con suficiente dinero, o si perdió su empleo, o sus horas de trabajo fueron reducidas; hay opciones para acceder ayuda disponible.
Los programas de salud pública de Minnesota ofrecen cobertura de salud a los residentes de Minnesota con ingresos económicos bajos o sin ingresos económicos. El Departamento de Servicios Humanos (DHS) tiene una página web nueva con información en Español sobre los programas de salud pública en Minnesota mn.gov/dhs/health-care-coverage/spanish. Invitamos a aquellos que necesiten cobertura de salud a preguntar si califican para Asistencia Médica o MinnesotaCare.
La mayoría de los residentes de Minnesota pueden solicitar en línea a través de MNsure.org. Sin embargo, sabemos que navegar los los seguros de salud puede ser complicado y por lo tanto, usted no tiene por qué descifrarlos por su cuenta. Estas son algunas de las opciones para obtener más información sobre nuestros programas de salud.
• Conéctese con un navegador en su comunidad para obtener ayuda para inscribirse. Podras encontrar un navegador que habla Inglés o Español en
mnsure.org/help/find-assister/find-assister.jsp.
• Comuníquese con su oficina local del condado.
• Si tiene alguna discapacidad, llame al Centro de Discapacitados de MN (Disability Hub MN) al 866-333-2466.
• Si tiene 65 años o más, puede llamar a la línea de enlace de la tercera edad (Senior LinkAge Line) al 800-333-2433.
¿No califica debido a su condición de inmigración?
La Asistencia Médica de Emergencia (Emergency Medical Assistance, EMA) ofrece cobertura para la atención y el tratamiento de afecciones médicas de emergencia a todo residente de Minnesota que no tenga una estatus de inmigración que le permita tener acceso a Asistencia Médica. EMA cubre aquellas afecciones médicas que de no tratarse en un período de 24 a 48 horas podrían:
• Poner su salud en grave riesgo;
• Ocasionar un deterioro grave de las funciones corporales; o
• Ocasionar un colapso grave de alguno de los órganos o partes del
cuerpo.
Usted puede solicitar la Asistencia Médica de Emergencia a través de su oficina local del condado.
Prueba gratis de COVID-19 si no tiene seguro Muchos residentes de Minnesota que no cuentan con un seguro de salud pueden realizarse la prueba de COVID-19 de forma gratuita. Aprende más a mn.gov/dhs/health-care-coverage/spanish.
Todos requerimos ayuda en muchas ocasiones, estamos aqui para ayudarte. Matt Anderson Assistant Commissioner and Medicaid Director, Health Care Administration, Minnesota Department of Human Services
Pictured left: Jason Lewis, Candidate for U.S. Senate
No one is downplaying the tragic loss of life caused by the coronavirus or questioning the need for serious measures to mitigate the spread of the disease among our most vulnerable.
This is not up for debate. However, we cannot continue to dismiss the devasting impact a crashing economy has on the health and well-being of Americans.
A new FiveThirtyEight poll shows nearly 87 percent of Americans are “somewhat” or “very” concerned about the impact the coronavirus has had on our economy. And there is good reason for that concern. In just three weeks nearly 17 million Americans have filed jobless claims.
Furthering concern, the International Monetary Fund is now predicting the global economy will very likely “experience its worst recession since the Great Depression, surpassing that seen during the global financial crisis a decade ago.” This prolonged shutdown has real consequences.
Not to mention the very real social and health costs that comes with a failing business or unemployment. Numerous studies have shown there is a causal relationship between increased joblessness and suicides and drug overdoses. One 2011 study published in Social Science & Medicine revealed that unemployment hikes the risk of premature mortality by 63 percent.
Adding an economic depression to the list of our current woes will not help America bounce back from this virus.
Just ask the small business owner who has spent years building their business from the ground up. Now their entire business is in jeopardy. They have bills to pay and commitments to keep, but no income coming in.
The longer Minnesota stays shuttered, the harder it will be for some of these businesses to be able to bounce back. These are sentiments echoed by every business owner I have talked to in the last few weeks, including those in the Latino community. Latino-owned business have been a staple in our communities since the 1930s and they are feeling the hurt from this economic freeze just as much.
We simply cannot flirt with the point of no return for main street business in Minnesota and across America.
We need to pivot to the second phase of handling this virus. Medical professionals must move towards evaluating the best ways to protect the vulnerable – those who are older or have preexisting conditions – while we also assess how to protect the American worker.
Ultimately, flattening the curve doesn’t beat the virus, it only delays it. We will only defeat the virus through advances in medicine and our own herd immunity — not by closing down the greatest economy in the world.
So let’s get back to work.
Pictured left: Rev. Saúl Carranza
Iglesia del Nazareno
Desde noviembre del año pasado cuando comenzó la epidemia de coronavirus, “COVID-19”, hemos escuchado esa frase muy frecuentemente. El número de muertos se cuenta por miles y los contagiados por cientos de miles. Los países han cerrado sus fronteras, los negocios se han paralizado y hemos sido enviados a nuestra casa. Definitivamente el mundo ya no es igual.
Muchos me han preguntado qué debemos hacer. Y lo primero que hago es animar a las personas a confiar en Dios y en los esfuerzos de las autoridades y luego confesar mi ignorancia y la de la mayoría de personas respecto a esta enfermedad. Es nueva para el mundo y todavía no hay una vacuna o una medicina 100% efectiva. Sin embargo, ante la crisis de esta pandemia Hay tres cosas que podemos hacer.
1 NO TEMAS.
Esta frase aparece en la biblia 365 veces. Pareciera que Dios quisiera recordarnos cada día del año que Él está en control de todas las cosas y por lo tanto no debemos entrar en pánico. Hay una maravillosa promesa en el Salmo 23:4 “Aunque ande en valle de sombra de muerte, No temeré mal alguno, porque tú estarás conmigo; Tu vara y tu cayado me infundirán aliento”. Si, esta enfermedad es un peligro real, si, no debe ser tomada a la ligera, sí, todos corremos peligro de contagiarnos y sí, hay peligro de muerte. Pero de igual manera sabemos que el Dios Todopoderoso está a nuestro lado para protegernos y que Él es refugio y pronto auxilio para los que lo buscan. En estos momentos en los que el miedo y la incertidumbre se apoderan del mundo ten paz. Confía en el amor de Dios, en que su gracia y misericordia cuida de ti y tu familia y que el Dios dador de toda cosa buena dará la sabiduría a los médicos y científicos para cuidar a los enfermos y encontrar esa vacuna y cura que tanto necesitamos. Las autoridades están conscientes que en este momento la oración es nuestra mejor arma. El presidente Trump, proclamó el 15 de marzo día de oración por el coronavirus. El presidente de mi país hizo un llamado a dedicar el sábado 21 de marzo para oración y ayuno. “Sin importar religiones, clamemos a Dios” dijo. Cientos de médicos y enfermeras en Italia y otras partes del mundo se unen en oración. Muchos de los líderes y científicos del mundo están encomendándose a Dios y recordándonos que para Él nada es imposible.
2 EDUQUEMONOS.
El mayor aporte que cada uno de nosotros puede hacer es evitar el contagio de la enfermedad, las autoridades nos están orientando sobre las formas en las que el contagio se puede dar. Cada persona enferma puede contagiar a muchas otras antes de darse cuenta que tiene el virus. Lavarse las manos, no tocarse la cara, cubrirnos la boca cuando tosemos y quedarnos en casa. Cosas simples que nos ayudarán. Pero que principalmente ayudarán a aquellos que por su edad están en un riesgo más serio. Los ancianos, los enfermos y los vulnerables. Aunque la enfermedad es peligrosa para todos, es menos peligrosa entre las personas jóvenes. Entonces si no se cuidan por ellos mismos deben cuidarse de no traer el virus a casa y que los padres, abuelitos o amigos puedan morir por su falta de precaución. Algunos de nuestros hermanos no estaban de acuerdo cuando informamos que se iban a suspender los servicios de domingo hasta nuevo aviso. Alguien podrá pensar que somos faltos de fe. Pero la Biblia misma nos enseña que es la forma de prevenir enfermedades. La enseñanza bíblica es que a quien se le descubría lepra o alguna otra enfermedad contagiosa se le aislara hasta que estuviera sano. La biblia dice “El prudente ve el peligro y lo evita; el imprudente sigue adelante y sufre el daño” Prov 27:12. Somos responsables los unos por los otros.
3 SEAMOS SOLIDARIOS.
La escases de los alimentos y el papel higiénico nos enseñó que aunque vivimos en una sociedad civilizada no hemos aprendido a pensar en los demás. Una gran preocupación en esta cuarentena además enfermedad en sí misma, son los miles de trabajadores que no tendrán un ingreso y los propietarios de pequeños negocios que no tendrán ingresos. Es cierto que estar en casa es lo más seguro. Pero ¿quién trae el alimento a casa? Muchos no pueden trabajar desde su hogar. Otros estarán en cuarentena obligatoria por haber dado positivo a la enfermedad. Todos aislados y algunos sin quien para ayudarlos. Es tiempo de ser creativos y preguntarnos ¿cómo puedo ayudar a mi hermano, mi vecino o mi amigo que está enfermo o pasando necesidad? He visto con agrado a muchos de nuestros hermanos ofreciéndose de voluntarios para cuidar a los hijos de los trabajadores de salud que no pueden dejar de trabajar, otros llevando comidas a los niños que no están en las escuelas, otros llevando alimentos o productos de higiene a ancianos “Según tengamos oportunidad hagamos bien a todos” Gálatas 6:10 es una de las enseñanzas bíblicas. Ahora es cuando mostrar nuestra fe y amor al prójimo en obras.
Estos son días inusuales. Demos respuestas inusuales. Un amigo pastor publicó este pensamiento, se los comparto. “Mientras el mundo está frenético por un virus, no temas. Mientras el mundo está en pánico, que la paz de Cristo esté con ustedes. Si bien el mundo ha entrado en un modo extremo de auto conservación, el Cristo desinteresado nos llama a la obra de restauración. Si bien el mundo está convirtiendo a todos los demás humanos en una amenaza a evitar, tratemos a todos los demás humanos como una vida para ser amada”. Dios los bendiga. Oro por usted y su familia, que el Dios de Paz los proteja.
El Pastor Saúl Carranza es Coordinador de ministerios Hispano/Latinos de la Iglesia del Nazareno en el distrito Prairie Lakes
(Minnesota, Sur Dakota y North Dakota)
Tel 763-245-2378
pastorcarranza@gmail.com
Pictured left: Maricella Herrera, 2020 Mrs. Minnesota, the first Mexican American
representing the state of Minnesota.
The Latino Community in Minnesota was excited to support our United States of America’s Mrs. Minnesota 2020, Maricella Herrera. She is the first Mexican American selected to represent the state of Minnesota in this competition. Maricella competed in the National Pageant in Las Vegas, NV February 14-16. Although Maricella did not win the competition, she represented Minnesota with class, professionalism and pride.
Her Community Outreach Platform was Diversity & Inclusion of Women Empowerment and we can’t wait to see what adventures her upcoming year of service will bring! Congratulations again to Maricella Herrera! Well done!
Pictured left: DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen
Executive Director
I was invited to be a presenter at the DNR Roundtable 2020 that was held January 24, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Bloomington. The theme of the conference was, Connecting to the Outdoors. My presentation focused on the article we feature every month in Latino American Today, Outdoors Minnesota. We also invite the DNR Parks and Trails staff to sponsor and present at our Multicultural marketing conferences that we produce each year. The keynote speaker for the conference was, Sarah Strommen, DNR Commissioner who presented Opening Remarks. Other speakers that presented on our panel included: Jenny Anderson, a digital creator and blogger her blog is “the Girl of 10,000 Lakes,” Dr. Brent Bauer, a professor of Medicine at the Mayo Clinic, Janssen Hang, with the Hmong American Farmers Association and Hansi Johnson with the Minnesota Land Trust.
Multicultural Marketing Conference with producer, Rick Aguilar and presenter Pat Arndt, former Communications and Outreach Manager for Minnesota State Parks and Trails
Key findings from the Minnesota State Demographic Center indicates that:
• In Minnesota, people of Color (those who identify as a race other than White alone, and/or those who are Hispanic or Latin(x)) make up 20% of the total population. Non-Hispanic White Minnesotans represent the remaining 80% of the statewide population.
This growth of the multicultural populations is important to so many aspects of Minnesota’s future. It’s important that these populations visit, enjoy and create an ownership of one Minnesota’s great legacy, our State Parks and Trails.
Pictured left: Rosa Tock, MCLA
Executive Director
By Claud Santiago
What is MCLA?
MCLA is a state agency that advises the government on matters of interest to Latinos who live in Minnesota. It is a bridge of communication and collaboration between Latinos and the government, the private sector and nonprofits.
Why should we care?
Without Latino engagement, MCLA cannot accurately communicate the interests of the community to the government nor can it serve the community effectively. Such engagement makes possible a stronger political voice and better socio-economic choices for the Latino community.
Who does the MCLA serve?
We serve Latino Minnesotans across the state and the people of Minnesota.
Who is the director of MCLA?
Rosa Tock
Executive Director/Director Ejecutivo
Rosa is originally from Guatemala and has also lived and studied in France where she earned an elementary school teacher diploma. She came to Minnesota as a Fulbright scholar at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, where she earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy in 2003. Based on her personal experience as an immigrant, and as a studious observer of Latin America, she adds the skills and cultural relevant understanding to support issues pertaining to the Latinx communities in Minnesota.
Most recently, she was the MCLA Interim Executive Director in the agency guiding the Council work through leadership transitions. In government, at the Minnesota Department of Education she was a planner in the Results and Improvement Unit of the Special Education Policy Division where she monitored and tracked activities and projects.
She worked as Legislative Director for the MCLA conducting research, updating data about the Latino community, and implementing the council’s legislative agenda by engaging state legislators on key legislation. Previously, she worked as a bilingual human rights specialist for the City of Saint Paul in the Human Rights Department. She is fluent in Spanish and French.
Pictured left: The legendary Rita Moreno
Rita Moreno has won all four of the most prestigious awards in show business: an Oscar, a Tony, two Emmys, and a Grammy. Rita’s Oscar was for her role as Anita in West Side Story, becoming the first Latina to win an Oscar. Her countless credits span more than six decades, beginning with her Broadway debut at age 13.
Moreno has starred on Broadway and London’s West End; appeared in more than 40 feature films, and countless television shows; and has performed in numerous regional theaters including her one woman show, Life Without Makeup at the Berkeley Rep.
Currently, Moreno stars in the widely popular Latino remake of Norman Lear’s classic sitcom, One Day at a Time which will now air on POP TV. Just recently, she signed on to be an Executive Producer and also has been cast in the Steven Spielberg remake of West Side Story, scheduled for a December 2020 release.
Moreno received the Kennedy Center Honor for her lifetime contributions to American culture and was honored by her peers as the 50th recipient of the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award.
Prior to that, she served as the Grand Marshall of the National Puerto Rican Day Parade; she released her first ever all-Spanish language album, Una Vez Más, produced by her good friend, Emilio Estefan and she added New York Times bestselling author to her list of accomplishments with her first book, Rita Moreno: A Memoir published by Celebra Books. The 87-year old Puerto Rican actress is determined to break down barriers to education and advocate for Latinx people.
Moreno was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush and the National Medal of Arts by President Barack Obama.
Pictured left: Gersson Rosas, President of Basketball Operations, Minnesota Timberwolves
A sold-out audience enjoyed a wonderful evening at the 17th Annual La Familia Latino Heritage Celebration at St. Paul’s Landmark Center. The event was produced by Aguilar Productions and sponsors included Old National Bank, Comcast, Minnesota Twins, U.S. Bank, and the Minnesota Timberwolves. The event included the presentation of the La Familia Latino Heritage Awards to the following recipients: Rudy Aguilar, Danny Vargas, Frank White, Kico Rangel, Roma Calatayud-Stocks, School District 197, Frank Ortiz, Martha Ordonez-Daniels, and Gersson Rosas. Danny Vargas, Chair of the Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino, served as the keynote presenter and he spoke of the effort to open a Latino national museum in Washington D.C.
Rudy Aguilar (second from left) World War II veteran and Purple Heart Recipient
Entertainment was provided by Kico Rangel y Los Amigos and Grupo Danzas de Colombianas, MN. A delicious dinner was served by Chef Jeff Conlin and True Taste Catering. “We want to thank all our sponsors, award recipients, and attendees for their participation and making the 2019 celebration a wonderful success, we look forward to our 2020 celebration,” noted Rick Aguilar.
Pictured left: Danny Vargas, Chairman, Friends of the National Museum of the American Latino - Washington D.C.
Thursday, September 19, 2019 - 6:30pm to 10pm • St. Paul’s Historic Landmark Center 75 W 5th Street, St, St. Paul MN
Our event will be held in the beautiful St. Paul Landmark Center in downtown St. Paul. We will feature a wonderful night of celebration, entertainment, a delicious dinner prepared by Chef Jeff Conlin and networking with Latino business and community leaders and supporters from throughout the Twin Cities metro area.
We are celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) when we recognize the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate our heritage and culture.
We will be presenting the “La Familia Latino Heritage Award” to special leaders in the arts, community, education, sports and civic affairs who promote, support and contribute to the Latino community in Minnesota and nationally. We do hope you will join us.
To purchase tickets or table reservations for the event go to www.aguilarproductions.com, call 651-665-0633, or email aguilarproductions@msn.com.
Pictured left: Comcast Cares Day Volunteers building a fence
Article provided by Comcast
Investing in our communities has been at the very heart of Comcast’s business philosophy since the company’s beginnings back in 1964. Nothing exemplifies that spirit of serving our friends and neighbors more than our annual Comcast Cares Day, the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event.
In the Twin Cities area, Comcast teamed up with more than 30 community organizations for a variety of projects, both large and small throughout April and May. From landscaping to painting, from stocking food shelves to mentoring young people, Comcast employees dedicated their time and talent to making a difference.
For example, more than 125 Comcast NBCUniversal employees, family members, friends and community partners volunteered to assemble resource kits and mentor young people at the Glover-Sudduth Center in North Minneapolis on Saturday, May 4. Other activities included landscaping and light maintenance work at a shelter for homeless veterans in Minneapolis in partnership with the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans on May 11. Comcast Cares Day volunteers also offered their time and talent to help beautify the Mt. Airy Boys & Girls Club facility in St. Paul.
“As we celebrated Comcast Cares Day, we were delighted to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities to give back to our local community,” said J.D. Keller, Regional Senior Vice President, Comcast. “It is incredible to see how we can drive meaningful change by bringing together our employees, their friends and families, and our community partners, both on Comcast Cares Day and throughout the year. We are thankful for the participants and volunteers who continue to work to make a positive difference.”
Comcast NBCUniversal employees volunteer during Comcast Cares Day and throughout the year to make a lasting impact. To date, more than 1 million Comcast Cares Day volunteers have contributed over 6 million service hours to improve local communities at more than 10,000 projects. To learn more about Comcast Cares Day and our other community investment programs, visit https://comca.st/2GUODpU.
Pictured left: Rick Aguilar and Kico Rangel.
By Rick Aguilar
Kico Rangel, one of the most admired musicians in the Twin Cities was honored at Minnesota Jazz Legends: The Elders concert that was held on April 14th, at the Minnesota History Center. Several other musicians including Tommy O’Donnell (piano), Jim Tenbensel (trombone), and Russ Peterson (multi-instrumentalist) were honored. The event was presented by Patty Peterson and Jazz 88 FM KBEM radio.
Here is a quote from the event producer, Patty Peterson:
“Our Minnesota Legends are living proof that Jazz, which was born here in America, is still alive and thriving in Minnesota, regardless of one’s age. By featuring these artists in this unique live concert/radio format, we will learn what the musical environment was like in the Twin Cities at the beginning of their careers, and how it has unfolded into today’s jazz scene. The history and the stories of these artists will enlighten young and old alike, and reinforce just how fortunate we are to have so many incredible artists still residing in Minnesota, performing their craft.”
For the past sixty-seven years, Francisco “Kico” Rangel, “saxophonist extraordinaire” has performed in the Twin Cities. Kico is a unique musician and bandleader who has kept his roots and plays his traditional style of Mexican music while still having the skill and chops to play Jazz. To this day, Kico is still busy playing gigs every week. He looks great and sounds wonderful with that full sound of his saxophone that is his trademark. Congratulations to Kico!
Pictured left: Tomasa Castillo was the Grand Marshall for the 2017 Cinco de
Mayo Parade in St Paul. Photo by Sara
Rose Garcia.
By Rick Aguilar
Tomasa Isadora Perez was born on April 4, 1919 in Sulfur Springs, Colorado. Tomasa (China) was the fifth of ten children that included five girls and five boys. Like many families during that era they traveled through small towns looking for work. Their travels led the family to Hampton, Iowa where they settled working with farmers harvesting crops. China’s first job was working as a waitress from 6:00am to 1:00am and earning 20 cents a day. On the weekends the family would travel to St. Paul, MN to attend the Mexican dances that were held at the Neighborhood House on the West Side Flats. It was at one of the dances when China met Nicolas Castillo who was the band leader for Los Rumaleros—it was love at first sight.
China and Nicolas began dating, at that time World War II broke out, and Nicolas was drafted in the army in 1942. They stayed in contact while Nicolas served with the 2nd Infantry Division. In 1945 Nicolas was discharged and returned to St. Paul, and on February 24, 1945 Nicolas and China were married. They raised a family of six children, Nick Jr., Michael, Peter, Lolo, Linda, and Virginia and lived on the West Side Flats.
China and Nicolas shared their love of faith and prayer that was so important to them and their family. China worked in the office at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church for several years. It was at that time that China began her leadership involvement in the Latino community. She saw the need for Latinos to get more involved in having a say in their futures in St. Paul. China became active in CLUES and served on the board of directors of many non-profit organizations.
Her love of Mexican culture found her working with the St. Paul public schools teaching the students about Mexican traditions. China’s sons soon followed their mother’s example and became involved with the Chicano movement in the 1970’s. China joined with Nick Jr. to start the Chicano Studies at the University of Minnesota. In addition, China and Nicolas worked with and hosted many of the leaders of the United Farm Workers organization who led the battle for better working conditions for Latino farm laborers. Cesar Chavez, the national Latino leader, visted with China and Nicolas at their West Side home. China was concerned about the lack of health facilities for Latinos and through her leadership La Clinica was founded in 1969 and located on the West Side. La Clinica has grown and expanded and serves the community today!
When Nicolas passed in 1987, China led the effort in St. Paul to have Peoples Park on the West Side, named after her late husband. Today, it is known as Parque Castillo.
More recently China served as the Grand Marshall for the 2017 Cinco de Mayo parade in St. Paul. Throughout here amazing life, China was a driving force who will leave a legacy of her family, serving her community and helping others. Vaya con Dios Tomasa!
“Rest in peace Tomasa, thank you for all you have contributed in your life. Your legacy will live
on through your family, friends, your community leadership and efforts to make things better
for others. God bless you."
—Latino American Today
Pictured left: E Guille Garza Welcome Remarks
Lili is the creator of Dreamers Ventures, bringing together a best-in-class alliance of business experts to search, mentor, and launch products created by Latinos on TV in partnership with HSN.
Lili is an award-winning entrepreneur, recognized cultural intelligenceTM expert, A.I. tech innovator and World Economic Forum Young Global Leader. She came to the U.S. at the age of 17 without speaking English after leaving her entire family behind in her native country of Colombia. After a successful corporate career, including a 10-year tenure at Johnson & Johnson where she pioneered various diversity strategies, Lili co-founded CIEN+ and CulturIntel. Her firm is globally recognized as a leader in big data analytics, business and marketing strategies to help global corporations successfully turn cultural trends and inclusion into profits. She is a regular TV commentator seen on Fox News, Fox Business and CNN en Español, and has been featured by Forbes, CNN Money, The Huffington Post, The NY Daily News, and MM&M. She is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the 2018 U.S. Hispanic Businessperson of the Year by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 2018 New York Women of Excellence, PR Week’s Top 50 Most Influential in Healthcare, among others.
For her commitment to advancing minority and women business issues, she has advised initiatives at the United Nations and the White House and she currently serves as a board member of the Harvard Women’s Leadership Board, National Board of Directors of the YMCA USA, mentor to the Stanford Latino Entrepreneur Leaders Program, and was appointed by New York’s Governor Andrew Cuomo to join the New York State Council on Women and Girls and by Mayor Bill de Blasio to join the NYC Tech Leadership Council.
Pictured left: E Guille Garza Welcome Remarks
By Claud Santiago
Twin Cities Hispanic real estate professionals recently launched the Twin Cities chapter of NAHREP with an event at the Profile Event Center in Minneapolis. Hundreds of Latino and Twin Cities realtors enjoyed networking and engaged in planning for the new chapter. Welcome remarks were presented by E Guille Garza of Keller Williams Integrity Realty who is the incoming President of NAHREP Twin Cities.
ABOUT NAHREP
Nosotros somos the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals®. We are The Voice for Hispanic Real Estate® and proud champions of homeownership for the Hispanic community. Homeownership is the symbol of the American Dream, the cornerstone of wealth creation and a stabilizing force for working families. Our role as trusted advisors and passionate advocates is to help more Hispanic families achieve the American Dream in a sustainable way that empowers them for generations to come.
MISSION STATEMENT
NAHREP is a purpose-driven organization that is propelled by a passionate combination of entrepreneurial spirit, cultural heritage and the advocacy of its members. Our mission is to advance sustainable Hispanic homeownership. NAHREP accomplishes its mission by:
• Educating and empowering the real estate professionals who serve Hispanic home buyers & sellersABOUT LOCAL CHAPTERS
NAHREP chapters embody the organization’s mission by creating and hosting events to showcase the importance of the Hispanic market in the real estate industry. Chapters are located throughout the United States and meet during the year to host educational seminars, networking events and galas. These events feature topics surrounding key issues in the industry and specifically focused on Hispanics. The chapters bring to life both the business and advocacy component of NAHREP, making the association one powerful force for any agent, industry professional or corporation to be part of.
The Latino and Hispanic community is one of the
fastest growing communities in America this decade.
According to the most recent American Community
Survey, there are now some 6.3 million more Hispanics
living in America than in 2010.
These are the towns and cities in Minnesota that have the largest Hispanic/Latino population in 2019.
WORTINGTON
Population: 13,142
% Hispanic/Latino: 41.23%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 5,418
Percent Change Since 2010: 40.62%
WEST ST. PAUL
Population: 19,750
% Hispanic/Latino: 22.0%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 4,345
Percent Change Since 2010: 19.53%
WILLMAR
Population: 19,608
% Hispanic/Latino: 22.0%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 4,313
Percent Change Since 2010: 7.26%
AUSTIN
Population: 24,882
% Hispanic/Latino: 15.83%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 3,939
Percent Change Since 2010: 26.41%
RICHFIELD
Population: 35,993
% Hispanic/Latino: 15.77%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 5,677
Percent Change Since 2010: -2.29%
SOUTH ST. PAUL Population: 20,280
% Hispanic/Latino: 14.62%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 2,964
Percent Change Since 2010: 7.31%
CROOKSTON Population: 7,780
% Hispanic/Latino: 14.07%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 1,095
Percent Change Since 2010: 33.86%
ALBERT LEA Population: 17,716
% Hispanic/Latino: 13.45%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 2,383
Percent Change Since 2010: 13.31%
GLENCOE Population: 5,511
% Hispanic/Latino: 11.47%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 632
Percent Change Since 2010: -40.93%
FARIBAULT Population: 23,577
% Hispanic/Latino: 11.44%
# Of Hispanic/Latino Residents: 2,698
Percent Change Since 2010: -22.16%
Maria Regan Gonzalez has been elected Richfield’s next mayor following the Midterm Election held on November 6. In her race, she received 96.25 percent of the votes cast.
She is filling the seat previously held by Pat Elliott. Regan Gonzalez’s term will run through 2022.
Regan Gonzalez has represented Richfield’s eastside residents as the Ward 3 councilmember since being elected in 2016.
Even prior to serving on the city council, service was always a big part of Regan Gonzalez’s life. Her parents encouraged her to get involved in her community. That passion for service eventually led her to run for a seat on the Richfield City Council.
“Originally, I ran for city council because I wanted to make sure that city services were accessible to all residents,” explained Regan Gonzalez.
Though her time on the city council has been brief, Regan Gonzalez and her city council counterparts have shepherded in many initiatives and projects that will impact Richfield for decades to come.
Specifically, they have passed ordinances aimed at protecting youth from tobacco products, expanded affordable housing options, authorized reconstruction of some of Richfield’s busiest roads, and ushered in a redevelopment boom of more than $200 million.
However, it is the smaller accomplishments that Regan Gonzalez is most proud of. Regan Gonzalez’s vision for Richfield revolves around the rapid change the city is experiencing. She also wants to engage more residents in the change process by getting their input early in the development of city-wide initiatives.
Regan Gonzalez believes that one of Richfield’s biggest strengths for today and the future is its diversity.
“Richfield is growing and diversifying,” acknowledged Regan Gonzalez. “As a city, that provides us with a lot of worldviews and assets that we can leverage to help Richfield thrive.”
Upon taking office, Regan Gonzalez will become Minnesota’s and Richfield’s first Latina mayor, but she credits strong female trailblazers such as the current Ward 2 council member Edwina Garcia, the Richfield’s League of Women Voters, and former mayor Debbie Goettel for leading the way.
Regan Gonzalez will be sworn in January.
By Graciela Eleta
On Thanksgiving Day, many Hispanic homes will be filled with the familiar scent of turkey roasting, but the holiday preparations will also include other customary dishes that better reflect Hispanic heritage. Many Latinos may choose to follow American traditions and also opt to include Hispanic foods as part of the celebration.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, mixing the old with a new part of life is a way to show how thankful and appreciative Latinos are about their bountiful lives. Thanksgiving is sometimes known as “Día de Accion de Gracia” or “Día de Dar Gracias,” but the Thanksgiving name or traditions hold strong. Part of the unique U.S. Latino experience is creating a customized blend of Hispanic and American cultural cues and traditions. So, while all-American at its core, Thanksgiving in a Latino home may still look and feel innately Latino from food and décor to a steady stream of Latino music, dancing and laughter. These things do not take away from the tradition, they only add more layers.
Along with the classic stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes and cranberries, tostones or mofongo (both made of deep-fried plantains), tamales, guacamole, tortillas, beans and specialty salsas and rice dishes (which vary by country of origin) might be found on the dining table. Cultural insights begin at home, and Latinos will tailor Thanksgiving to meet the duality of their culture in the U.S. and pay tribute to their Hispanic roots. Families with school-age children are also more apt to understand the unique holiday.
While Thanksgiving is not celebrated in Latin America—and the real history of the holiday beyond foodstuff might elude those who did not grow up with this history lesson—Latinos feel a special connection to its meaning of being thankful, and they appreciate sharing in its festivities. In fact, 76 percent of Latinos often celebrate U.S. holidays, and 86 percent of Latinos feel it is natural to live and act in ways that are typical of U.S. American culture, according to a Simmons Spring 2011 survey.
You might ask, does it matter if pumpkin flan is served rather than a pumpkin pie? And what if stuffing is seasoned with adobo, chorizo and peppers? Creativity is a large part of any family meal, and some food companies cater to a Latino palate that is unfamiliar with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving fixings.
What matters is that marketing is used to invite Latinos to fully embrace the American tradition and its offerings. In a comScore study, 35 percent of Hispanics recalled products that they saw advertised, versus 31 percent of non-Hispanics. Thirty one percent of Latinos also enjoyed watching ads, compared with only 19 percent of non-Hispanics. Although growth has slowed in the consumer product goods industry overall, companies that provide CPGs for Hispanics have seen more progression, and Latinos often turn to Spanish-language media to familiarize themselves with American traditions.
Food and beverage companies can do their part to offer choices and alternatives to Hispanic consumers that blend the two cultures. Think turkey with chorizo cornbread stuffing, or turkey hotlines in Spanish, for example. But it’s not the food itself that makes the holiday. It is family, and new and old traditions that make the day so special. After all, an occasion that combines family, food and fun is bound to be cherished.
The 16th annual La Familia Latino Family Festival & Expo was held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Event Hall in St. Paul on September 22nd. Sponsors included the Minnesota Twins, Latino American Today, U.S. Bank, and Comcast. The expo area feautured companies, organizations, and associations that are interested in forming relationships with the Latino community. The La Familia Latino Heritage Awards were presented to individuals and organizations for their service and contributions to the Latino community in Minnesota. Thanks to all who attended.
(Left) Frank Cruz, award recipient with Rick Aguilar (right)
16th ANNUAL
LA FAMILIA LATINO FAMILY FESTIVAL & EXPO SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018 - 11 AM TO 3 PM
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
Hello and welcome to the 16th annual La Familia Latino Family Festival & Expo. We are pleased to bring La Familia 2018 to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in the heart of the West Side of St. Paul, as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage and “La Familia” the Latino family. All of our sponsors, exhibitors and supporters are excited to be participating in La Familia 2018 because it gives them the opportunity to say “we value the Latino community for your contributions to Minnesota and we value your business”.
There is no La Familia 2018 without our sponsors. Thanks to all our wonderful supporters, Minnesota Twins, Latino American Today, U.S. Bank and Comcast.
We’ll be honoring very special community members who promote, support and contribute to our Latino community and Minnesota with the La Familia Latino Heritage Award.
OUR EXHIBITORS FOR LA FAMILIA 2018:
MN Twins - Fun games, prizes, and gifts from Our Minnesota Twins! U.S. Bank - Some special surprises and useful information from our favorite bank! Community of Saints Regional Catholic School - Great school for Latino children! Minnesota Housing Finance Agency - Helping you get a home! Comcast - Featuring Internet Essentials for the family. Red Cross - Information on the many services of one of America’s great organization. Latino American Today - Connecting the Latino Community in the Twin Cities! Keller Williams Realty - Let agent Isaac Contreras help you find and buy a home! LegalShield - Affordable Lawyer services for your family and business. Minnesota Opera - One of Minnesota’s
premier Arts Organizations. Minnesota Latino Peace Officers
Association - Providing family services.
Community Members and Organizations to be honored at La Familia 2018:
The La Familia Latino Heritage Award will be presented to the following list:
The Guadalupanas
Long time women society group at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church for all their service to the church and community.
Rebecca Moran Cusick
Founder, Leader, and Dance Director of one of the Twin Cities favorite dance groups, Los Alegres Bailadores.
John Lozoya
Saint Paul Police officer and a member of the
Minnesota Latino Peace Officer Association.
Louis Trejo Sr.
St. Paul former restaurant owner and community leader who organized and promoted Latino celebrations for many years.
Junior Trejo
One of St. Paul’s favorite musicians who also volunteered his services for the community.
Frank Cruz
Veteran and member of the Mexican American
Veterans group. Frank has been an active volunteer at the Church and other community organizations.
John Flores
Commander of AMVETS Post #5 and Vietnam Veteran. Spent 24 years in the military.
Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs
This Organization reports to the Governor and Legislature on Latino public issues and works with the Latino community throughout the state.
By Craig Bannister
The national seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate for Hispanics and Latinos in the U.S. labor force fell to the lowest level on record in June of 2018, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data released Friday show.
In June, the unemployment rate for Hispanics and Latinos, aged 16 and up, was 4.6%, down from its May level of 4.9%. Before June’s record, the lowest monthly Hispanic-Latino unemployment rate since BLS began tracking the statistic in 1973 was 4.8%.
While the Hispanic-Latino unemployment rate had been as low as 4.8% in five months, four of those months were during the administration of President Donald Trump; the lone exception being October of 2006.
During the 17 full months of the Trump administration, beginning in February 2017, Hispanic-Latino unemployment has averaged 5.0%.
In contrast, the national Hispanic-Latino unemployment rate averaged 9.4% during President Barack Obama’s eight years (96 months) in office, impacted by the 2008 recession, which officially ended in June of 2009, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research.
Hispanic-Latino unemployment was 11.3% during Obama’s first full month in office, February of 2009. By January of 2017, the Hispanic-Latino unemployment rate had dropped to 5.9%. Trump was inaugurated on January 20, 2017.
41 Twin Cities graduating high school seniors were recognized and awarded with college scholarships from the Comcast Foundation
Comcast Twin Cities has awarded $45,000 in scholarships for the 2018-19 school year to 41 graduating high school seniors as part of the company’s annual Leaders and Achievers® Scholarship Program. The program, funded by the Comcast Foundation, is a one-time, $1,000 scholarship awarded to the best and brightest high school seniors for their community service, academic performance and leadership skills.
“Our Leaders and Achievers Scholarship winners are exceptional students who are committed to academic excellence and community service,” said J.D. Keller, regional vice president, Comcast Twin Cities. “We are honored to recognize their achievements and excited to support them as they continue their educational journeys.”
Comcast hosted a special reception honoring this year’s winners on Thursday, May 17 at the Minnesota State Capitol, attended by family members, supporters, and a variety of local and elected officials. In addition, Nou-Chee Chang of Minneapolis, a senior at Brooklyn Center High School, was selected to receive an additional $4,000 Comcast Founders Scholarship, instituted in honor of Ralph J. Roberts, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Comcast Corporation.
Since 2001, more than $28 million has been awarded to nearly 27,000 high school seniors across the country as part of the Leaders and Achievers Program. In the Twin Cities, Comcast has awarded more than $332,000 to hundreds of area students.
The Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Program provides scholarships to students who strive to achieve their full potential, who are catalysts for positive change in their communities, who are involved in their schools, and who serve as models for their fellow students. The philosophy behind the program is to give young people every opportunity to prepare for the future and to engage them in their communities. The program also demonstrates the importance of civic involvement, and the value placed on civic involvement by the business community.
Festivities at the Family Arts Blast
By Claud Santiago
Children of all ages enjoyed hands-on-interaction with music, dance, theater, and more!
Despite a snowy April 14th hundreds of families had a wonderful day at the Ordway enjoying a wide range of creative activities happening throughout the building. You could make or try an instrument, learn new dance moves, or try your hand at costume and sound design.
Emceed by host Liz Lassiter, every 20 minutes a new show or concert went on inside the two performance spaces, theatrical performances of Goodnight Moon, Mexican folk music performed by Andale Juana and stories told by actor T. Mychael Rambo set to music. Thanks to The Arts Partnership for presenting this fun family event that was free to the public.
Rick Aguilar receiving the 2014 NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award from Minnesota Viking Chief Marketing Officer, Steve LaCroix
By Claud Santiago
Building off the success of the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards, the NFL, together with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) and Nationwide are pleased to announce the launch of the NFL Hispanic Leaders Alliance Presented by Nationwide.
The alliance will feature webinars, events, and continued dialogue to help shape the NFL’s engagement and outreach with the Hispanic community. Together, these groups will work to make a positive and lasting impact on the community.
“The launch of the Hispanic Leaders Alliance signifies a continued commitment by the NFL, the Hispanic Heritage Foundation and Nationwide to connect with and serve Latino communities across the country,” said Dawn Hudson, NFL Chief Marketing Officer. “We are excited to connect with this network of leaders on a year-round basis and continue to impact the local communities of our 32 teams.”
Since 2011, the NFL and HHF have partnered annually for the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards. In 2017, Nationwide, official sponsor of the NFL, joined the NFL and HHF to recognize the charitable efforts of Hispanic leaders in all 32 NFL markets during Hispanic Heritage Month. The awards also serve as part of HHF’s award-winning mission to identify, inspire, prepare and position Latino leaders in the classroom, community and workforce.
Antonio Tijerino, President & CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation
The awards are granted annually during Hispanic Heritage Month, with each award recipient honored at a game or event in their local NFL market. Each recipient selects an organization of their choice that serves the local Hispanic community to receive a donation. To date, more than 200 Hispanic leaders from across the country have been recognized through this program and more than $400,000 have been granted to non-profit organization.
“Nationwide is honored to partner with the NFL and Hispanic Heritage Foundation to support this newly-formed Hispanic Leaders Alliance,” said Mike Boyd, Senior Vice-President of Marketing at Nationwide.
“It’s important we not only celebrate these leaders, but we connect them to each other so they can continue their development, share ideas, and be a part of a network that will make an even greater impact on our community across the country,” said Antonio Tijerino, President & CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. “We are proud to partner with the NFL and Nationwide to create the NFL Hispanic Leaders Alliance and build further the works we’re doing in the NFL’s 32 markets.”
Will perform at the Ordway Theater - March 6th
By Claud Santiago
Iconic Grammy and Latin Grammy Award winning singer Lila Downs is one of the world’s most singular and powerful voices, whose compelling stage presence and poignant storytelling transcend all language barriers. Lila was born in Mexico to Mixtec indigenous singer Anita Sanchez, who lived in the Mexico state of Oaxaca and Allen Downs, a professor of art and cinematography at the University of Minnesota. They met when Downs visited Oaxaca. As a child Lila split her time living in Minnesota and Oaxaca. In Minnesota Lila lived in a house that was located right across the street from the Roseville Mall. She was an elementary school student in Roseville. Her years in Roseville exposed her to more diversity than did her time in Oaxaca.
Lila attended school with Hmong, East Indian, and many other ethnic students and she learned how large the Latino community was in the Twin Cities. It wasn’t well after her father’s death that Lila began to deeply explore her Mexican roots, while attending the U of MN, where she studied voice and anthropology. She soon found out that the dedication to the art of music as a discipline was big at the U of MN. She had amazing voice teachers who taught her so much. Lila began singing several years later, winning acclaim for the sensitive and versatile recordings that showcased her tremendous range and ability to master different genres from rancheras to boleros.
Left: Lila Downs on the Grammy Awards red carpet
Lila’s current album, Salón, Lágrimas y Deseo, earned her a fifth Latin Grammy. Salón, Lágrimas y Deseo, released in May 2017, features a blend of genres from blues to cumbia, danzón, banda, and Cuban son, with ballads that perfectly suit Lila’s unmistakable, contralto voice. She has graced the stages of many of the world’s most prestigious festivals and venues including Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and the Hollywood Bowl. She has been invited to sing at the White House, and performed on the Academy Awards and Latin Grammy Awards telecasts.
For Downs, the concert at the Ordway Theater on March 6, is another homecoming and a reminder that she is loved in Minnesota, where she has many friends and is adored by the state’s Hispanic community. She was quoted in an MPR interview saying, “The last time I was in Minnesota I really understood why I am who I am. I am very Minnesotan, over the years, I’ve found all these you know characteristics in my personality that I always thought were characteristics from my Indian background in Mexico. But I think it’s hard for me to tell which one they’re coming from because they are very similar in the sense that they’re very responsible, kind of concerned about the other and respectful, careful.”
Minnesota Loves Lila!
Above: Winter Carnival 2018 King Boreas Tom Leonard and Aurora, Queen of Snows, Jilla Nadimi
Latino American Today Lifestyle reporter Christy Ana attended the St. Paul Winter Carnival Coronation at the St. Paul RiverCentre. Over 1,000 people attended the event.
King Boreas 2017 Jason Bradshaw and Latino American Today Lifestyle reporter, Christy Ana
The Winter Carnival Castle at Rice Park drew crowds of thousands celebrating the Carnival.
Henry Jiménez (pictured left)
By Claud Santiago
What is MCLA?
MCLA is a state agency that advises the government on matters of interest to Latinos who live in Minnesota. It is a bridge of communication and collaboration between Latinos and the government, the private sector and nonprofits.
Why should we care?
Without Latino engagement, MCLA cannot accurately communicate the interests of the community to the government nor can it serve the community effectively. Such engagement makes possible a stronger political voice and better socio-economic choices for the Latino community.Who does the MCLA serve?
We serve Latino Minnesotans across the state and the people of Minnesota.
Who is the director of MCLA?
Henry Jiménez
Executive Director/Director
Ejecutivo
Henry is the proud son of parents who were undocumented. His father from Tepic Nayarit, Mexico is a truck driver and his mother from El Departamento de La Libertad, El Salvador is a house keeper at a hotel.
His parents were finally able to purchase their first home when Henry was in high school in Las Vegas, NV. Where he soon after earned a scholarship to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and earned a dual degree in Women Studies and Political Science. Henry has called Minnesota home for 8 years. During this time he has earned a Masters in Advocacy and Political Leadership from the University of Minnesota, Duluth.
He came to Minnesota with no family but now has a family of his own. He is married to Jennie Jimenez and has a beautiful 8 month old, Lucía Jimenez. Henry was appointed by the Legislative Coordinated Commission to his position on December, 2015 Community Listening Sessions were held throughout Minnesota in 2017.
The MCLA Community Listening Sessions process enables the Council to genuinely capture the voice of Latino communities. The community engagement plan supports the following objectives. The Council serves its statute and several legislative goals. Direct and genuine engagement of Latino community members across the state of Minnesota insures a comprehensive development of socio-economic analysis and high quality recommendations.
By Claud Santiago
Pamela Barragan grew up in Ecuador and moved with her family to Minnesota in 1991. She got a job with the St. Paul Police Department as a civilian community liaison officer.
In the Latino culture, working with the Police is more of a male-oriented career so for Barragan this was different and very much a challenge.
Barragan has made the most of the opportunity and after 18 years as a sworn police officer, she was promoted to become St. Paul Police Department’s first Latina commander.
When she first started working with the Police Department, her parents were very concerned and wondered if their daughter made the right decision. Early in her career Barragan worked in the family sexual violence investigating sex crimes and child abuse then moved to the gang and gun unit and as a patrol sergeant in downtown St. Paul. Barragan also worked in recruitment, getting people with diverse backgrounds interested in law enforcement. “We try not to just recruit the people themselves; we have to recruit the families,” Barragan said.
This past year the police department has engaged in a new program called the Law Enforcement Career Path Academy, in which potential candidates from underrepresented communities can get tuition and living stipends paid through the state Department of Employment and Economic Development and AmeriCorps.
The Legislature — as part of a training package — voted to give additional money to a similar statewide program this year. Barragan will start out as commander in citywide services, which oversees such things as the traffic division, and the K-9 and mounted units. Good luck to her.
By Graciela Eleta
On Thanksgiving Day, many Hispanic homes will be filled with the familiar scent of turkey roasting, but the holiday preparations will also include other customary dishes that better reflect Hispanic heritage. Many Latinos may choose to follow American traditions and also opt to include Hispanic foods as part of the celebration.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, mixing the old with a new part of life is a way to show how thankful and appreciative Latinos are about their bountiful lives. Thanksgiving is sometimes known as “Dia de Accion de Gracia” or “Dia de Dar Gracias,” but the Thanksgiving name or traditions hold strong. Part of the unique U.S. Latino experience is creating a customized blend of Hispanic and American cultural cues and traditions. So, while all-American at its core, Thanksgiving in a Latino home may still look and feel innately Latino from food and décor to a steady stream of Latino music, dancing and laughter. These things do not take away from the tradition, they only add more layers.
Along with the classic stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes and cranberries, tostones or mofongo (both made of deep-fried plantains), tamales, guacamole, tortillas, beans and specialty salsas and rice dishes (which vary by country of origin) might be found on the dining table. Cultural insights begin at home, and Latinos will tailor Thanksgiving to meet the duality of their culture in the U.S. and pay tribute to their Hispanic roots. Families with school-age children are also more apt to understand the unique holiday.
While Thanksgiving is not celebrated in Latin America—and the real history of the holiday beyond foodstuff might elude those who did not grow up with this history lesson – Latinos feel a special connection to its meaning of being thankful, and they appreciate sharing in its festivities. In fact, 76 percent of Latinos often celebrate U.S. holidays, and 86 percent of Latinos feel it is natural to live and act in ways that are typical of U.S. American culture, according to a Simmons Spring 2011 survey. You might ask, does it matter if pumpkin flan is served rather than a pumpkin pie? And what if stuffing is seasoned with adobo, chorizo and peppers? Creativity is a large part of any family meal, and some food companies cater to a Latino palate that is unfamiliar with turkey and other traditional Thanksgiving fixings.
What matters is that marketing is used to invite Latinos to fully embrace the American tradition and its offerings. In a comScore study, 35 percent of Hispanics recalled products that they saw advertised, versus 31 percent of non-Hispanics. Thirty one percent of Latinos also enjoyed watching ads, compared with only 19 percent of non-Hispanics. Although growth has slowed in the consumer product goods industry overall, companies that provide CPGs for Hispanics have seen more progression, and Latinos often turn to Spanish-language media to familiarize themselves with American traditions.
Food and beverage companies can do their part to offer choices and alternatives to Hispanic consumers that blend the two cultures. Think turkey with chorizo cornbread stuffing, or turkey hotlines in Spanish, for example. But it’s not the food itself that makes the holiday. It is family, and new and old traditions that make the day so special. After all, an occasion that combines family, food and fun is bound to be cherished.
Left: The cast of In the Heights
What a wonderful way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by seeing the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts production of In the Heights, written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Rick Aguilar and guests Ana de la Torre, Rose Aguilar, and Katie Eilers enjoyed a terrific night of theatre and a fun after party with the cast. “This is my first time at the Ordway, I’m so impressed and thrilled to be here,” stated Ana de la Torre. “It’s so cool that the Ordway had local Latino talent involved with the production,” said Rose Aguilar. “I plan to bring my grandson to the David Gonzalez production.”
Left to right:
Alberto Justiniano,
Teatro del Pueblo
Artistic Director;
Jamie Grant,
Ordway President &
CEO; Rick Aguilar;
James Rocco, Ordway
VP of Programming
and Producing
Artistic Director;
and Eugenio Vargas,
musical director.
Rick Aguilar is pleased that the Ordway leadership aims to welcome and increase participation of Latinos in their core audience and deepen their connection with the Twin Cities growing Latino community. Aguilar who is past Chair of the St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce and former Saint Paul RiverCentre Commissioner is currently working with the Ordway marketing team through his company Aguilar Productions. “Our goal is to introduce more Latinos to the theater productions and to the many opportunities that the Ordway is offering to the community. The Ordway leadership wants to work proactively to ensure that everyone can take part in and shape their programs, both in the community and at the Ordway as well as participate in their workforce and activities.”
Maya Santamaria, an award recipient
Each year we honor individuals, organizations, and businesses for their commitment to Hispanic heritage, culture, and community! Here are our recipients for 2017! The awards will be presented at the 15th annual La Familia Latino Family Festival & Expo.
Maya Santamaria
Twin Cities business and community leader and founder and owner of Santamaria Broadcasting.
Elsa Vega Perez
Senior Project Consultant, diversity expert and social justice advocate with over 20 years experience in philanthropy, non-profit and public sector.
Amalia Moreno-Damgaard
Internationally recognized award-winning author, chef-entrepreneur, and business leader.
Top row, left to right: Elsa Vega Perez, Amalia Moreno-Damgaard, Maria Elena Caldera de Arana, Rick Cardenas, SSG Alejandro Quintana, and Michael Rogers.
Maria Elena Caldera de Arana
A widely-respected and gifted community leader in Nicaragua and also in Miami, Florida. She is an organizer who has been instrumental in creating and developing many initiatives for the Red Cross of Nicaragua. Our international La Familia awardee!
Rick Cardenas
Twin Cities community leader and champion and advocate for disability rights!
SSG Alejandro Quintana
Serving our country as a member of the Minnesota Army National Guard.
Risen Christ Catholic School in Minneapolis
President Michael Rogers and the students.
The August 11-13 celebration will feature diverse music and entertainment, exclusive tours, family-friendly activities, fireworks, and much more.
Governor Mark Dayton and Lt. Governor Smith invite all Minnesotans to the Capitol Grand Opening Celebration on August 11, 12, and 13 at the fully restored Minnesota State Capitol. The three-day long celebration will reintroduce Minnesotans to the “People’s House,” which recently underwent a four-year restoration project. A diverse schedule of events is designed to bring Minnesotans of all ages, and from all corners of the state, to St. Paul to celebrate one of our state’s most iconic landmarks. “The Minnesota State Capitol has finally been returned to its original grandeur, with additional public space and improved accessibility that truly make it the People’s House. It is a testament to the talented men and women of the building trades, who devoted three years to this project,” said Governor Mark Dayton. “I encourage all Minnesotans to come view the restored Capitol, and partake in the Grand Opening Celebration festivities August 11-13.”
“The State Capitol has been at the center of Minnesota civic and community life for more than 100 years. With this restoration finally complete, our Capitol is ready to serve as a gathering space for generations of Minnesotans,” said Lt. Governor Tina Smith. “I hope all Minnesotans will mark their calendars and visit their State Capitol this August.
Weekend Highlights
Kid Zone
Join the Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnesota Children’s Museum, Minnesota Zoo, the Minnesota Historical Society, and librarians from across the state in fun and family-friendly events! Every day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. there will be engaging indoor and outdoor activities for kids to enjoy!
Outstanding Entertainment
Enjoy diverse music and dance performances throughout the weekend with groups of singers and dancers performing a variety of styles celebrating Minnesota’s vibrant culture. Musical performances are on the outdoor stage throughout the each day!
On Friday night, grab a friend and bust a move as we end the day with a Prince Dance Party!
On Saturday afternoon, join the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild at “Cap Untapped” before a free concert from The Current Presents: Lizzo and Poliça! Be sure to stick around – Fireworks will light up the night sky behind the Capitol immediately following the concert!
On Sunday, Classical MPR and VocalEssence will “Bring the Sing on the Capitol Green” as they lead a sing-along community choral event on the Capitol Lawn.
Yoga and Breakfast on the Capitol Lawn
Grab your yoga mat and join us for some sun salutations on the Capitol Mall! Yoga classes will be led by the St. Paul YWCA. On Saturday, free water bottles are provided to participants while supplies last. A limited supply of free blueberry muffins will be served each day, compliments of General Mills.
Tours
Guides from the Minnesota Historical Society and a host of Capitol tenant volunteers will lead you on a tour of the Minnesota State Capitol building. Grand Opening Tours will include special behind-the-scenes looks at restored spaces including the Loggia and Quadriga, Governor’s Office, the House and Senate Retiring Rooms, and the private Supreme Court Conference Room. Tours run all day, beginning every 30 minutes from the Information Desk. Dusk each day will feature a special viewing, raising, and lighting of the Rotunda Chandelier.
By Rick Aguilar
Everytime I would run into Nick Castillo in our adult years he would always say to me, “hey Rich who loves ya,” and then he would give me that hug, along with his distinctive laugh, that was his alone. Man, I’m really going to miss my long time best friend, Nicolas Castillo Jr.
Nick passed away recently after fighting cancer for five years. He fought that illness the way he lived, with pride, passion, and love for his family, friends, and his community. Throughout the Twin Cities friends remembered Nick with the phrase “one and only” used hundreds of times to describe his life, because in fact, that was so true! Our hometown neighborhood the “West Side Flat’s” produced some real personalities in our history, and Nick was defintely in the Top Ten List. His look, the way he dressed, his own hip language and those shades…that walk…his warm personality, he was so cool, and we all loved him.
From left: Young Nicolas: A teen idol; middle: Nick and his son Nicolas Castillo III who’s holding the golf club Nick used to make his “hole in one.”; right: Nicolas and his wife Barbara.
Nick’s life had its ups and downs…accomplishments and dissapointments, but his attitude never changed—he was determined to make a difference. Maybe that drive to make a difference started with his boxing career in the Golden Gloves. He was the pride of the West Side, winning bout after bout and going on to the Golden Glove National finals and being selected to Mancini’s St. Paul Sports Hall of Fame. Or how about his college years where he led a group of Latino students who challenged the administration and as a result the department of Chicano Latino Studies was formed at the University of Minnesota and is still in place today. Later Nick and his mother Tomasa, (herself a legend in the community) took on City Hall and the result was Parque Castillo, La Clinica, and other West Side success stories. On the light side who can forget Nick dancing to Mickey’s Monkee with the Jaymars and Rudy Garcia. I was the lead singer of the Jaymars and we could write a book about all the laughs and good times we had with Nick right on stage with us. Lum di lum di lie…lum di lum di lie….
When the news reached the community five years ago that Nick had aggressive cancer and only so long to live, he took that challenge on and lived his last years, looking good, hanging out with family and friends and golfing…including, dig this “a hole in one” adding to the legend of Nicolas Castillo Jr. Vaya con Dios Nick!
By Claud Santiago
With a projected buying power slated to reach $1.5 trillion by 2017, Hispanics are an important group for marketers, and leading the growth within this vital segment are women, according to a new report by Nielsen, a global provider of information and insights into what consumers watch and buy. Nielsen’s report, Latina Power Shift, highlights the role of Hispanic women, their growing numbers, economic condition, purchasing behavior and consumption.
The Latina Influence
By the year 2060, Latinas will represent thirty percent (30 percent) of the U.S. female population, and will become dominant consumers across many industries. But if 2060 seems too far away, the following current demographics (from the Nielsen report) make a strong case for today’s Latina influence:
Education, Career and Finances
• Latinas are outnumbering their male counterparts in educational achievements, career pursuits and income levels, shifting Latinas to the middle class and above;
• For the first time, Latinas have surpassed non-Hispanic females in college enrollment (73 percent and 72 percent respectively);
• Latinas in households making $75,000 or more increased by 5 percentage points over the past ten years;
• Latinas are more likely than other females to have bought a first home in the past year, and they are just as likely to have bought a new car, made a major home improvement or refinanced a home.
Motherhood and Household
• Twenty-three percent of all U.S. births in 2011 were to a Latina mom, and 63 percent of Hispanic families have children under age 18 compared to 40 percent for non-Hispanic white females. This high incidence of Latina mothers with young children, paired with gains in educational and economic attainments, positions Latinas in a key role as consumers for an array of household products;
• Eighty-six percent of Latinas report that they are the primary decision makers in their households spending.
Mobile and Internet Technology
• Latinas are adopting all types of technology at a higher pace than U.S. females. Online Latinas are more likely than their non-Hispanic white counterparts to own smartphones at 77 percent (vs. 55 percent);
Above: Christy Ana with Snow Queen Royalty
Reported by Christy Ana
Comunidad latinoamericana de Minneapolis y Saint Paul, les invito a unirse a la diversión de este evento único! Desde 1886, el Carnaval de Invierno se ha celebrado cada enero / febrero, excepto durante los años de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. La celebración del Carnaval de Invierno incluye desfiles, un festival de cerveza al aire libre, una caza de medallones, actividades familiares gratuitas y de bajo costo, esculturas de hielo y nieve, música en vivo y apariciones de la Fam...ilia Real. La Coronación se efectuó anoche en el RiverCenter, representando el viaje mágico del rey Boreas LXXXI junto con Aurora, la Reina de las Nieves; las Princesas y Príncipes de los cuatro viento; así como la Guardia Real. Una tradición de carnaval de invierno de ciento treinta años.
Left: Christy Ana with King Boreas, Right: Christy Ana visiting with royalty from
Bradenton, Florida
La familia real hace varias apariciones durante el año para beneficiar el Área Metropolitana de las Ciudades Gemelas y para promover Saint Paul y el Carnaval de Invierno.
Participemos en está celebración al invierno en espera de la bendita primavera. Allá nos vemos!
Left: Saúl Carranza
The history of the first Christmas is nothing like the celebrations that are organized today to remember it.
The Gospels narrate the miraculous apparitions of the Angel Gabriel to the priest Zacharias and the young Mary. In both cases to announce the supernatural birth of a child. To Zechariah, he announces that his old and barren wife will give birth to a child and that he should call him John. To Mary, he announced that it will fulfill the prophecy given by the prophet Isaiah almost 800 years ago and said: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Immanuel means God with us. And when the young woman asked the angel, how can it be possible that she is going to have a baby if she has not known any man sexually, the angel tells her that it is the work of the Holy Spirit who will do the miracle that she Conceive without the participation of a male. The child Jesus is the son of God. And he came to this world to bring the message of love and goodwill of the Father. He came to remind us that God loves all people.
Although we know that the date we celebrated on December 25 could not be the date of Jesus’ birth. This date gives us time each year to celebrate the wonderful event of the birth of the Son of God. And that’s what the word Christmas means, “from Latin Nativitas” means “birth.”
Mary was the promised wife to Joseph who received her as his wife, even knowing that she was expecting a child. Joseph knew that child was from God. Joseph and Mary had to make the painful journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem to fulfill the mandate of the Roman emperor Augustus Caesar. All were to be counted. The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem must have taken many days, since the distance between the two villages was about 180 kilometers. The census made no place for them in the village. And that the only place they found to spend the night was a manger. Usually the cribs were caves open on the rock for the animals to sleep. So that first Christmas did not smell of pine, nor punch, nor had lights. In an obscure and malodorous cave the Savior of the world was born. The only guests that night were humble shepherds to whom the angels told the “good tidings of great joy. That night in the city of David, the Savior of the world was born.”
That’s why Christmas is Jesus and forgetting that leaves us with only a party without meaning. Jesus is the gift of God to all human beings, and it is in his name that everyone in celebrating this feast we wish for peace and happiness. Christmas is a holiday to spend as a family, it’s a holiday to enjoy. It is a time to approach the one who came down from heaven to come to reign in our heart and fill it with the love of God. Merry Christmas.
Saúl Carranza is originally from Guatemala. Pastor of the Church: Christ for All Nations in the City of Crystal, MN. Its mission is to serve God and the Hispanic community of the Twin Cities by teaching the Word of God, living in a community of love and serving the needy.
For more information email pastorcarranza@gmail.com or call 763-245-2378.
Left: Rudy Aguilar at the Arlington National Cemetery
Rudy Aguilar a 93 year old Army veteran who lives on St. Paul’s East Side had the time of his life on his “Honor Flight” to Washington D.C. this past October 29. Rudy along with a group of World War ll and Korea veterans and their Guardians, were treated to a full day of visiting the war memorials, seeing ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and enjoying their “Honor Flight” together over dinner.
Aguilar at the World War II Memorial
The Honor Flight Network paid for the charter aircraft, tour bus service, hats, tee-shirts, Honor Flight pins, meals a biography book, Video and Photos of the Veterans and Guardians on the flight.
Rudy Aguilar on the flight to Washington D.C. reading his V-mails
On the flight to D.C. Rudy and the veterans were handed a bag full of V-mails, written letters from family, friends and others wishing them a great trip and thanking them for their service.
Aguilar who served in World War ll and earned a Purple Heart in the Battle of the Bulge, received a V-mail from Major General Rick Nash who is the current Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard.
“Rudy, thank you for your selfless, honorable and loyal service to our nation. You and those that served with you are truly the 'Greatest Generation' and those of us that follow have so much to live up to and honor your service and sacrifices.”
—Major General Rick Nash
Interview process at the Job Fair
By Claud Santiago
SuperValu, Inc. hosted a Job Fair on September 14, at the Nuevo Rodeo – 27 Event Center in Minneapolis.
“We were pleased with the Job Fair and the opportunity to offer employment with career advancement to the community,” commented Sue Sturnieks, HR Manager at SuperValu.
Latinos who attended the job fair were interviewed for positions in the SuperValu distribution center located in Hopkins, MN. For more information about this employment opportunity you can contact Kathy St. Louis at kathy.stlouis@supervalu.com or Axel Torres at axel.j.torres@supervalu.com.
SuperValu HR Staff: Kathy St. Louis, James Van Dusen, Lisa Signorelli, and Axel Torres.
Job applicants viewing video of job description.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. Thanks to President Johnson and President Reagan for honoring the Latino Community.
The La Familia Hispanic Heritage Awards were presented at the La Familia 2016 event on August 6th, to the following recipients from Latino American Today Publisher Rick Aguilar and the Selection Committee.
Left: Masedonio “Do” Vasquez Jr.
By Rick Aguilar
The St. Paul West Side Flats over the years was a breeding ground for talented musicians who went on to perform in various bands and groups throughout the Twin Cities and beyond. Masedonio “Do” Vasquez Jr. who passed recently, was an example of the talent in that neighborhood.
For this article we spent time with Lee Vasquez (Do’s Brother) who gave us some insights about his brother and how they both got their start in music.
The West Side produced a melting pot of music. Latino musicians played traditional Mexican mariachi, polkas and Norteno music. There were also many young Latinos that listened to and played jazz, blues and rock. Do Vasquez and his pals, Ruben Trejo, Kico Rangel, and George Avaloz would go to the “Jazz at the Philharmonic” concerts when they came to St. Paul, and listen to their favorite’s jazz musicians like Oscar Peterson, Stan Getz, Sonny Rollins and others. Lee Vasquez told us that he started playing drums at Humboldt H.S. and helped introduce the saxophone to this brother Do at the jam sessions that would take place in the neighborhood.
Lee Vasquez went on to play drums with various bands and groups throughout the years.
Masedonio soon purchased his first saxophone and the rest is history. He started playing by ear with his pals and soon he began taking lessons from Kico Rangel and other musicians. He loved to listen to the great Sonny Rollins and developed a similar style that was unique at that time. Lee would take Do to some gigs he played with the Dick Ford Blues Band and let him sit in on saxophone.
In the early 60’s a West Side group was forming with Rudy Garcia on Bass, Bobby Garcia on guitar and Dave Bougie on drums. They invited Do to come to a rehearsal with the group and together they formed the Jaymars.
The Jaymars, from left to right: Bobby Garcia (guitar), Rick Aguilar (vocals), Jerry Barnez (drums), Rudy García (bass), and Do Vasquez (saxophone)
I had the pleasure of joining the Jaymars as their lead singer in 1962 and I really dug playing with Do, Rudy, and Bobby G. The group had its own style of playing Jazz, Blues, and Rock tunes we called it the “West Side Sound” to describe the music we played and we were booked with gigs throughout the Twin Cities. It was a wonderful era and our West Side fans were the hippest in town. I’ll always remember playing with Do he was so cool, funny and a wonderful person. We’ll remember his great sounding Selmer Tenor Saxophone and that ‘great grove’ all his fans enjoyed. Rest in Peace my friend.
Left: Juan Martinez
By Claud Santiago
Latino American Today attended the Children & Nature Network International Conference & Cities & Nature Summit that was held at the RiverCentre in St. Paul, May 24-27. We had an opportunity to meet Juan Martinez and learn about his love for the outdoors and his goal to involve more Latinos.
A proud product of South Central Los Angeles, Juan D. Martinez is the Children and Nature Network’s Director of Leadership Development and the Natural Leaders Network. He is also a National Geographic Explorer, and a TED Speaker. Crediting his experience of growing up in South Central L.A. with a deep understanding of the need to connect children, families, culture, and communities with the natural world, Juan has made a commitment to help empower the next generation of conservation and outdoor recreation leaders.
At an early age, his passion to empower youth individuals led him to direct the Sierra Club’s first environmental justice youth leadership academy in Los Angeles, and his interesting journey continued from there.
Martinez was named a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and travels across the US speaking and encouraging other young people to explore the outdoors. In 2014 The National Science Teachers Association’s Multicultural and Equity Committee honored Juan for his work as a Global Explorer.
A few years ago, Juan was invited to be a Murie Center Explorer in Residence in Grand Teton National Park, WY. Following his residence experience, he was elected to the Murie Center’s Board of Directors. Juan is on The Wilderness Society’s Governing Council, elected in 2015; and in 2012, he was elected to the Sierra Club Foundation Board, their youngest member ever.
Martinez will be returning to St. Paul in the near future and wants to meet with Latino community and business leaders to have them promote the wonderful world of the outdoors. We look forward to working with Martinez and his organization, meanwhile let's all go out and explore the wonderful outdoors Minnesota has to offer!
Senator David Hann and State Rep. Eric Lucero
By Claud Santiago
The Hispanic Republican Assembly of Minnesota (HRAMN) held their annual meeting, at the Boca Chica Restaurant in St. Paul. State Senator David Hann, minority leader in the Senate was the guest speaker. The membership elected new officers for the Assembly. Maria de la Paz is the new Chairman. De la Paz, has been active in the Republican party for many years and has been a key supporter in recruiting Latinos to the Republican party. Other officers elected included Rick Aguilar, who will serve as Vice Chair, Anthony Torres, will serve as Treasurer and Ben Kosel as Secretary. At the meeting the organization laid out plans for the coming 2016 campaign year. “I am proud to serve as Chair of our organization and look forward to gaining more Latino voters to the Republican party,” stated De la Paz.
New HRAMN Chair Maria de la Paz and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker
State Senator Hann addressed the meeting attendees about the current legislative proposals being promoted by the Republicans at the State Capitol. “Senate Republicans oppose the gas tax increase that Democrats favor for transportation funding. They want to use surplus money and existing sales tax revenue,” Hann stated. Outgoing HRAMN Chair, Frank Mendez stated, “we are very pleased to have this great group of new officers, they are energetic and dedicated to growing the membership and increasing the number of Hispanic Republican elected officials.” Mendez will remain on the board and serve as a member of several committees.
Carlos Font, 22, interned with two professional sports teams in Oklahoma City before joining the Twins as a Spanish-language interpreter.
By Claud Santiago
Carlos Font is the first-ever Spanish interpreter for the Twins.
Font, 22, graduated from Southern Nazarene University in 2015 and spent the past year interning for the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Triple-A Oklahoma City Dodgers.
Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Font moved to Florida with his family at age 14. A year later they settled in Moore, Oklahoma.
Font is among the first interpreters to start work under Major League Baseball’s new subsidized program to improve communication and media opportunities for Latino players.
The Twins have a strong contingent of Spanish-speaking players, led by Miguel Sano, Ervin Santana and Eddie Rosario.
Commissioner Rob Manfred recently explained the impetus behind adding Spanish interpreters on all 30 clubs.
“It was a topic we talked to the MLBPA about for some time,” he said of the players’ union. “I did go around last year and I spoke to every team in the clubhouse, and I noticed a problem in terms of language.
For the first time, all 30 teams will be required to hire an interpreter fluent in Spanish and English. The interpreter will be present in the clubhouse before and after games to facilitate interaction with the media, teammates and club employees.
During batting practice and games, the interpreter will be available on the field and in the dugout, which should improve the flow of communication immensely between managers and coaches and an ever-growing talent base from Latin America.
The new hire must be in place by Opening Day.
“I am proud of our Hispanic players,” Twins general manager Terry Ryan said. “They try. And we bring them through our system and they’re required to go to English classes. It’s been an ongoing process. In the big leagues, there are certain players that I think really want the help, and we should provide that. It’s just the right thing to do.”
But until now, players from Spanish-speaking countries often had to fend for themselves. If they were fortunate enough to have a bilingual coach on the staff, as the Twins do with assistant hitting coach Rudy Hernandez and previously did with bullpen coach Bobby Cuellar (2013-14), the transition would be eased somewhat.
Yet, even with that safeguard, many Latino players have struggled to bridge the language gap with their potential fan base, costing them untold millions over the years in endorsements and other marketing opportunities.
“Sometimes we’re shy to speak with somebody because of the language,” said Nunez, 28. “We worry that we make too many mistakes to speak (publicly). Sometimes you ask me a question and I feel a different way, but when I respond to the question you might understand something different than what I want to say.”
More than a quarter of the Twins’ 40-man roster primarily speaks Spanish. That includes rising big-league stars such as Miguel Sano and Eddie Rosario, and top pitching prospect Jose Berrios could join them soon.
Greg Ryan, candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in the 4th District
By Claud Santiago
Visiting El Bravo Mexican Restaurant on Rice Street off of University Avenue in St. Paul, Greg Ryan candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in the 4th District, pledged his support for the Hispanic business community and commends their great achievements and the important role they play in the Twin Cities economic growth. With Ryan for this visit is Rick Aguilar, a Twin Cities business leader and one of the founders of the Minnesota Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of the Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce in the year 2000. Ryan commented that “ Multicultural business owners Hispanic, Asian American and other immigrant groups have transformed the University Avenue cooridor from what in the 1970s had become a decaying urban wasteland, home to closed businesses and boarded up storefronts, to the thriving commercial district it is today.” Immigrant business owners are realizing the American Dream and Ryan is on a mission to make sure that the dream stays alive. His vision for Minnesota is to help small businesses like those on University Avenue grow and create more jobs. Ryan commented to Aguilar on the “wonderful ecomomic development that has happened in this area.” “ The enterprise and hard work of the Immigrant business owners has produced positive results for University Avenue,” Ryan commented.
Greg Ryan feels that the University Avenue corridor with the addition of the new Green Line Light Rail system represents an important change for St.Paul and offers new opportunities for the Immigrant business community in the 4th district. Many business corridors in St. Paul, like Payne Avenue and Cesar Chavez Street have seen Hispanic immigrants take advantage of the “American Dream” and the chance to open their own businesses and create jobs in the community. Ryan know that they need less regulations and lower taxes to be able to grow. Ryan understands the importance of the immigrant communities and what they can contribute to Minnesota’s economy. In his own words Ryan stated, “I want to keep the American Dream alive for the immigrant communities and make Minnesota a state where business thrives and immigrants get the opportunity to contribute and make a difference.”
Musician and bandleader Kico Rangel
By Rick Aguilar
For the past sixty-five years, Francisco “Kico” Rangel, “saxophonist extraordinaire” has performed in the Twin Cities. Kico is a unique musician and bandleader who has kept his roots and plays his traditional style of Mexican music while still having the skill and chops to play Jazz, Rock n Roll, Calypso, Middle Eastern, Hawaiian, Latin American, and big band gigs. This musical ability and the fact that he is reliable (shows up on time for the gig) and reads music put Kico on the call list for bandleaders, music bookers and concert producers all throughout his musical career.
Pictured left: Kico Rangel, age 16
Kico was born and raised on the West Side Flats in St. Paul. At age thirteen Kico decided he wanted to play saxophone, after listening to the many talented musicians and performers who lived on the West Side back in the ‘50s. Joe Medina, a bandleader and sax player, was one of Kico’s first influences in music and would be the band Kico played with as he started his musical career at age fifteen.
Kico’s family members were performers, singers, and dancers who were the pride of the Latino community on the West Side. Kico and his six sisters, performed at countless events and to thousands of fans for decades.
Kico gave me my start back in the late ‘50s, offering me the opportunity to sing with his Rock n Roll band at the Crystal Ballroom in Minneapolis. Wow, that was a thrill and throughout the years we performed together with the legendary Jaymars.
Pictured left: Kico with his sisters, Genevieve and Maria
Kico is a very low key collaborator, who never brags about himself and is a team player in any band or group the he has performed with. To this day, Kico is still busy playing 2-4 gigs a week; he looks great and sounds wonderful with that full sound of his saxophone that is his trademark.
In the history of the Latino community in Minnesota, Kico will always be remembered for performing for our weddings, baptisms, birthdays, community events, and for playing our traditional Mexican music for our religious celebrations and at our funerals when we grieved for family members who had passed. Happy Birthday Kico…thanks for all your wonderful music and for keeping our musical traditions alive.
Presidential candidate Marco Rubio
By Claud Santiago
History is being made with two Hispanic Republicans Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz both running for President of the United States in 2016. Both candidates are articulate and passionate on all the issues, they represent a new generation of political leaders and both are considered having a good chance to get the endorsement from the Republican party.
The Hispanic Republican Assembly of Minnesota (HRAMN) is an organization that was founded in 2004 and is an affliate of the Republican Party of Minnesota. Richard Aguilar, who was born and raised in St. Paul, is one of the members of HRAMN. Aguilar is a long time Republican activists and is seen as an party insider. He was a key supporter and confidant to former Senator Norm Coleman and Governor Tim Pawlenty and nationally is well known in Republican circles. “These are exciting and challenging times for the Latino community” Aguilar stated. “Having two Latinos in contention for the Presidency is a game changer and should lead to more Latino community members wanting to get involved in politics.
Frank Mendez, who is current Chairman of the HRAMN announced that at the November 23, 2015 meeting of the HRAMN executive board members they voted to endorse Senator Rubio.
HRAMN endorses Rubio. HRAMN Excutive Committee. L to R: Anthony Torres, Andrew Noble, Maria de la Paz, and Frank Mendez.
“Marco Rubio’s bid for President of the United States amongst a collective group of well qualified Republican Candidates gave our committee a lot to think about. In the end, Marco’s clarity of thought and consistency in his communication skills stands him in front, as a leader of today and the future. He is a well defined contrast between tiring beltline political leaders and a youthful energetic, hope filled ,living example of The American Dream. Marco Rubio is our next generation conservative candidate with well known humble origins , who reflects and identifies with the daily challenges of the average American. He is a proven leader with great listening and communication skills. His ability to support, understand and articulate knowledge of foreign affairs with leadership skills is second to no other , including supporting Israel. His domestic concerns for keeping America Safe, our national debt , higher education , border security , welfare reform , replacing Obamacare , the faith community , have been well stated and are perfectly clear. Marco Rubio is a great example of what a Conservative is today” stated Chairman Mendez.
Maria de la Paz, who is the HRAMN Vice President and the most well known Latina in Minnesota Republican party circles, also praised Rubio and shared Chairman Mendez’s recommendations and looks forward to campaigning for Rubio. Other executive committee members include Anthony Torres and Andrew Noble, Secretary.
L to R: Executive Committee of the MN-NLPOA: Frank Ortiz, Ben Ellringer, Alix Chance, Carlos Escobar, and Pete Ortega
By Rick Aguilar
The National Latino Peace Officers Association was founded in the early 1970’s by John Parraz, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, and Vicente Calderon, California Highway Patrol, San Jose Office. Since then the organization has become one of the largest Latino Officer Association in America, with NLPOA Chapters across the nation. The Mission of the association is to eliminate prejudice and discrimination in the Criminal Justice System (particularly in law enforcement). To create a fraternal/professional association that provides support, advocacy, personal and professional development to its members. To prevent and reduce juvenile delinquency; and lessen neighborhood tension in the Latino communities, through awareness and role modeling, provide bi-lingual assistance to the public, and bridge the gap between the Latino community and the police.
The National Latino Peace Officers Association Minnesota Chapter (MN-NLPOA) was established in 2002 by a group of police officers who shared the vision and mission of the national organization. Today the Minnesota Chapter has been active in our community, participating in events such as Menudo Run & Walk Family 5K, Adopt a Family, MPD PAL Soccer Game, La Familia Latino Family Festival & Expo, where the Chapter has a booth and provides family and children safety tips, The Youth Initiative Aviation Academy (YIAA) Mentoring, and recruiting law enforcement students. Juan Cervantes, a local businessman who has a State Farm Insurance Agency in St. Paul, has been active as a business advisor with the Minnesota Chapter. “One of the many goals is for the association to develop communication and trust with the communities where our Latino officers serve” Cervantes stated. “I’ve been proud to sponsor the MN-NLPOA at the La Familia festival, where we get to meet and form friendships with the Latino Community.”
The current executive committee of the Minnesota Chapter includes Frank Ortiz, St. Paul Police Department, Vice President, Ben Ellringer, Metro Transit Police Department, Secretary, Alix Chance, St. Paul Police Department, Sargent at Arms, Carlos Escobar, Minneapolis Police Department, Treasurer and Pete Ortega, MN State Patrol, President. Thanks to the all the members of the MN-NLPOA.
Attendees at the Latino Education Summit
By Rick Aguilar
Latino students in the Twin Cities are not closing achievement gaps in reading and math despite the fact that according to new data two-thirds of Minnesota schools are making progress.
Minnesota has the largest achievement gap in the U.S. between white students and students of color. Latinos continue to drop out of high school at alarming rates as this crisis threatens the future of the Latino community and the workforce supply for the future in Minnesota. Education is the key to success for all Latino students and yet despite various programs and millions of dollars spent by the public schools, our Latino graduation rates continue to hover at fifty percent or less.
What do the public schools in the Twin Cities need to do to change this situation? Where are the Latino leaders and what are their strategies and solutions to this crisis?
For four years, the Minneapolis and St. Paul school districts have declined to participate in the Minnesota Education Department’s Regional Centers of Excellence, a program that puts experts in struggling schools, where they can offer training and support in meeting goals. Why do public schools in the Twin Cities refuse to participate in this program, when the program is producing good results at schools that do participate?
All these questions and the fact that no solutions appear to be making a difference lead to one fact, we need to look at different options...all options should be on the table. School choice is being promoted by many political leaders, education advocates, and education reform organizations and seems to be gaining support by many in the Latino community. Other options are being developed that will be presented in our Legislative sessions in 2016 that should be considered and approved.
This past August 8th, the Latino Education Achievement Gap Summit was held at the Neighborhood House in St. Paul. Over 100 attendees made up of political leaders both Democrat and Republican, superintendents from public and private schools, business and community leaders, education advocates, education reform organizations, and Latino youth leaders attended. Many of the participants expressed their concern and for some, outrage, that this crisis exists in Minnesota. Panelists discussed strategies and exchanged ideas and successful programs were presented and discussed. It was a very productive Summit according to organizers. The next Summit is being planned for February 2016.
Although a long list of Latino leaders were invited, very few attended! The Latino community needs to step up and take on this crisis with all the energy and passion they can put forward. The future of the Latino community is at stake.
First picture: Attendees at the Latino Education Summit. Left to right: Back row, Hector Garcia, Valeria Silva, Carlos Gallego, Frank Mendez, Col. Sandy Best, Rick Aguilar, Carissa Ontiveros, Kassandra de la Cruz, Myra Huerta Bueno, Elia Bruggeman Rep. Jon Koznick, and Carmen Robles. Lewis Dixon (pictured in the front)
Second picture: Left to right: Sen. Dan Hall (R), Rep. Sondra Erickson (R), Sen. Roger Chamberlain (R), Amy Koch, Barbara Malzacher, and Shawn Peterson attended the Latino Education Achievement Gap Summit.
Pictured above: Rep. Jon Koznick
By Claud Santiago
For the first time in Minnesota history the Minnesota House of Representatives has two Latino Republican lawmakers. They were both elected in 2014.
Rep. Jon Koznick was born in the South American country of Colombia. When he was just five years old his mom died. He didn’t have a dad, and an older sister didn’t have the means to care for him. Fortunately, he was adopted by an American family after a short time in an orphanage He grew up in Anoka and studied at St. Cloud State University, where he received a degree in Marketing.
Rep. Koznick serves District 58A and the people of Lakeville. Koznick and his wife, Patty, moved from Eagan to Lakeville in 2001 and have two daughters, ages 9 and 7. He works at Provincial Bank and is involved in several community organizations including the Lakeville Chamber of Commerce, All Saints Church and the Rotary Club. Koznick was campaign manager for former Rep. Mary Liz Holberg.
Rep. Koznick serves on the Property Tax and Local Government Finance Divisions, Taxes and Transportation Policy and Finance committees in the House. He is also the Republican Liaison to the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs.
“I have always had an appreciation for the democratic process and representative government,” said Koznick. “I like being involved in our community and getting involved in things that affect us and are around us. I was always thinking in the back of my mind it’s a blessing to live in this great country.” Koznick explained. He is very concerned about the Latino Achievement Gap and wants to see that each child in Minnesota receives a great education.
Rep. Eric Lucero represents District 30B, which includes the communities of Albertville, Hanover, St. Michael, Otsego, and the Wright County portion of Dayton. Lucero lives in Dayton, Minnesota with Erum, his wife of 17 years.
Rep. Eric Lucero
Lucero’s professional career includes more than a decade experience in the computer security & data privacy field, seven years teaching college level computer security related courses. Lucero is also an entrepreneur and small business owner, a licensed real estate agent and licensed general contractor, and previously was a City Council Member in the City of Dayton.
Rep. Lucero’s committee assignments in the House include the: Education Innovation Policy, Public Safety, Transportation, and Mining and Outdoor Recreation. Lucero also uses his computer security background to serve on the Legislative Commission on Data Practices and Personal Data Privacy.
“We need to ensure state government policies empower and encourage people to hard work and achieve the American Dream,” Lucero said. “As a teacher myself, I am working hard to ensure everyone has access to the highest degree education opportunities and school choice.” Lucero strongly believes one of the best ways Latino students can achieve their dreams is by closing the education opportunity gap.
Both Lucero and Koznick see the need to help the growing Latino business community with fewer regulations, lower taxes and healthcare they can afford.
Lucero and Koznick represent a strong group of young Republican candidates that helped the Republican Party take control of the House in 2014. They helped outreach initiatives to grow the Republican Party with their Hispanic ethnicity and articulating the values of Individual Liberty, Free Market Capitalism, and Limited Government. They are pro-life, pro-family, and believe in protecting equal opportunity for all. They are Republicans because their beliefs most align with the Republican Party. Lucero and Koznick will help the Latino community in Minnesota by addressing the concerns and protecting the future of the next generation.
Pictured right: Aida Pinero
The La Familia Hispanic Heritage Awards will be presented to deserving Latino community members at the 13th Annual La Familia Latino Festival & Expo that will be held at the Neighborhood House, located in St. Paul, on Saturday, August 8th from 11am to 3pm. These community members are being honored for their work they do in the community that brings recognition to the Hispanic culture and community.
The Awards will be presented from noon to 1pm on the Festival Stage and the event is free and open to the public. The commendations will be presented to the following individuals.
Juan Cervantes, owner of Juan Cervantes State Farm Agency in St. Paul. Juan is a business leader who has volunteered for many years with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and other organizations in promoting economic development in the Hispanic community.
Pablo Basques is an artist who has dedicated his work to bring awareness and recognition to the contributions of the Hispanic culture and community. Pablo is a Vietnam veteran who is a member of the Post #5 Mexican American Veterans.
Top right, from left to right: Juan Cervantes, Gladys Rodriguez, Henry Capiz. Bottom row: Martha (Mardi) Dominguez and Pablo Basques
Aida Pinero, works for U.S. Bank and has been a leader in raising funds for the American Heart Association. Aida brings much awareness to the Hispanic community of this disease and the importance to learn more about the symptoms to look for. Henry Capiz, of St. Paul, a veteran who served his country and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force Reserve. In his professional life, Henry was the Chief Pharmacist at St. Luke’s Hospital in St. Paul.
Martha (Mardi) Dominguez is the Family and Community Director for Academia Cesar Chavez, a position she’s held since the school opened 15 years ago. Mardi has 36 years of experience in the field of family and community education. Gladys Rodriguez works for the Chicano Latino Affairs Council serving as the secretary and receptionist. Gladys and her tremendous passion and professionalism have made a vital difference to the success of the organization throughout the years.
History Theatre premieres a new musical, River Road Boogie: The Augie Garcia Story
History Theatre will produce the world premiere of a new musical by local playwright Joe Minjares and directed by Raul Ramos. River Road Boogie: The Augie Garcia Story explores the life and musica of a man whose infectious smile, generous spirit, and incredible talent—along with his trademark Bermuda shorts—made him a Minnesota music legend.
It's 1956. One hot summer night, returning Korean war veteran Augie Garcia got off the bus, put a dime in a pay phone, and put a band together that upstaged Elvis with an opening act so rockin' that Colonel Parker kicked them off the stage of the St. Paul Auditorium. The Augie Garcia Quintet became regulars at the River Road Club and man, did they know how to stir up the crowd—"Hey Augie," shouted piano player Cornbread Harris at the cool cat with the Bermuda shorts, "Step up on this here piano and give 'em what they want! Hi Ho Silver! And a 1 – and 2 – and..."
The Godfather of Minnesota Rock 'n Roll took the sounds of his Mexican background and mixed them with rhythm and blues, creating a style like no other. Turn back the clock and join us for a night of boogie-woogie – Let the Good Times Roll, baby!
"Music was changing from jazz, blues and gospel to a newness of energy that was evolving into rock and roll, and Augie's group was on the forefront," said director Raul Ramos in the St. Paul Voice. "They called it 'junk blues,' the purgatory before rock 'n' roll."
Augie Garcia Quintet, 1950
"For Augie, it was the power of music and the joy of that music gave him that brought order and happiness to his life and to those who heard him play," shared Ron Peluso, History Theatre Artistic Director. "When playwright Joe Minjares and I talked about developing this play, the Korean War Veteran's experience became important to us – it's part of the American experience that too often gets lost in the shuffle.
Augie was a Minnesota original. With his generous spirit and music, Garcia developed his love for music from rhythm and blues from the Spanish corridos and boleros of his parents' generation. Understanding how music influenced his family is important to Minjares. "Memory is a funny thing. We remember the good things," said Minjares in the St. Paul Voice. This play will share the legendary music and the story of Augie and his band.
Ivey-Award winning actor Ricardo Vasquez will portray Augie Garcia in this new musical premiering May 2 at History Theatre.
River Road Boogie: The Augie Garcia Story will premiere Saturday, May 2, 2015 as part of the 2014-15 season. For tickets, please call box office at 651-292-4323 or visit www.historytheatre.com.
Marci Malzahn
By Marci Malzahn
I believe in mentoring. It changes people’s lives. You want to make a difference? You want to impact someone’s life? You want to leave a legacy? Mentor someone.
I am not a formal mentor or mentee but I have mentors that, throughout my life helped me in my personal life, spiritual life, and in my career. I have also mentored over 15 young adults during high school, their college years, and while entering the workforce. I helped them with interviewing skills, preparing their resumes, negotiating salaries, getting promotions, connecting them to potential employers, and coaching them through work situations once employed. I also coached and mentored “grownups” when going through transitions at work or switching careers. The little help I provided impacted their lives in various ways.
My mentors helped me get through transitions in my own life, most recently leaving a ten-year job at a bank I helped start and launching my own bank consulting firm, Malzahn Strategic. I encourage you to look for a mentor, someone who is wiser than you and that can help you become all you can be. Seek for a mentor who wants to share her or his life experiences with you, a person who is willing to share her or his mistakes as well as the successes. As a Latina woman leader, you need a mentor.
Mentoring is powerful. That’s why I volunteered to be on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities Board (BBBSGTC). I started serving three and a half years ago in the Finance Committee, then Executive Committee, and now I serve as the Board Chair. As I start my two-year term, I pondered about this great opportunity to help lead an organization that transforms young people’s lives forever. In the process, I got inspired to write this article and share my enthusiasm with you so you can partake of this experience too.
BBBSGTC is led by my friend and great leader, Gloria Lewis. BBBSGTC is the sixth largest agency in the nation and mentors over 2,000 children. Based on data and research at this agency, only 10% of Littles and 2% of Bigs in the program are Hispanic/Latinos. Of the 2,000 children (Littles), 56% are female and 44% are male and 58% of the Bigs are female and 42% are males. When measuring development outcomes at this agency, 94% of the youth improved or maintained their scholastic competence, 84% have higher educational expectations, 94% feel more accepted by their peers, and 90% of children mentored increased their motivation to continue their education or job training beyond high school. At the National level, youth that participates in the BBBS mentoring program are 75% more likely to receive a college degree, 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, and 52% less likely to skip school.
Pictured left: Gloria Lewis
There are opportunities to get involved and make a lifetime impact in a young person’s life through BBBS. Become a Big and mentor a girl or boy. They are looking for Latinas (and Latinos) who speak Spanish too. If you don’t want to or have the time to be in a formal mentoring program, then do it informally. But mentor someone! It is the best way to give back to the younger generation and to pass on your own wisdom. Mentoring is a way to show the young men and women that they are valuable and that they can too make a difference in the world.
As Latina women leaders, we need to encourage the younger Latinas that are coming behind us. We need to impart in them what we learned during our lives and help them prepare to succeed in the working environment. I challenge you to take the initiative to mentor a young Latina girl or young adult and enjoy the journey of seeing a life being transformed right in front of your eyes.
Louis Garcia
By Julián Aguirre
Visiting El Burrito Mercado on Cesar Chavez Street in St. Paul, Louis Garcia candidate for Ward 2 Saint Paul City Council, reminisced about his experiences with his father in the neighborhood. “My father was one of the first Latin music disc jockeys in Minnesota. We promoted his business by placing posters on poles and walls along Concord Street and we would visit with the local business owners,” Garcia commented.
Garcia is seeking to become the first Latino elected to the Saint Paul City Council. Born in the Mexican state of Veracruz, he immigrated to America as a child in 1984. Garcia grew up in the Merriam Park neighborhood of Saint Paul and the city has been his home for over 20 years. He lives in the West Side neighborhood with his wife, Nicole, and his two young children, Mick and Natalia.
Garcia has worked in Information Technology for the past decade and started a website development business in 2011. He has concerns about equity within the industry, “Latinos are tragically underrepresented within the Information Technology industry. I want to change that. I want to see more opportunities open for all unrepresented communities to develop the skills needed and break in to this high-demand industry.”
The Garcia for Saint Paul campaign platform consists of making Saint Paul more competitive in the 21st century, developing stronger communities, and increasing government transparency. Garcia’s priority is to invest on city infrastructure and roll out high-speed broadband, fiber optic. Garcia explains, “Fiber optic will fuel economic growth by attracting more businesses and residents to the city and leveling the playing field for home-based businesses and entrepreneurs looking to open their doors. Saint Paul can’t fall further behind to Minneapolis, other regional cities, and within the global economy.”
Garcia acknowledges that while Minnesota is a great place to live for many, there are still profound disparities that still exist today for minority communities in education, housing, and poverty. Garcia believes that being born into an immigrant family and owning a small business gives him a unique perspective on city politics. He made an appeal to a gathering at El Burrito Mercado, “I will bring a fresh perspective to city hall. I will develop innovative solutions to the challenges and opportunities our city faces. I will work to empower and protect all communities so that Saint Paul is a place where people thrive.”
View more about the Garcia for Saint Paul campaign at http://www.g4sp.com
Keith Downey, Chair, Republican Party of Minnesota
By Keith Downey
The recent immigration debate has centered on President Obama’s executive order. The need for immigration reform is real, and Republicans believe it is very important to get it right through legislation, passed by Congress and signed by the President so it will last.
However, as the immigration debate moves forward, Latino leaders have recently questioned whether there is an over-emphasis on immigration as the defining Latino issue. Cristina Beltrán, associate professor at New York University, said, “Immigration should be one step in understanding the Latino community… Instead it has become the end-all.”
Recent polling confirms her assessment. The issues that consistently rank as the top three priorities for Hispanic voters are education, jobs, and health insurance.EDUCATION
Let’s face it, public schools in Minnesota’s urban areas are failing minority students. No statistics can tell the story better than the parent whose child receives a sub-par education and is stuck in a dead-end, failing school. Republicans believe all children deserve better than that—and that includes Latino children.
JOBS
The American Dream was built on the belief that everyone has the opportunity for success if they work hard. Republicans are committed to making the American dream of good jobs and maximum opportunity available to everyone, regardless of whether one’s family has lived here for 100 years or 1 year.
HEALTH CARE
Last year, one in eight Minnesota Latinos did not have health insurance. This year, MNsure isn’t even enrolling enough people to make the program financially viable. We can do better. Republicans are working for high quality health care at an affordable price. It is possible, and we can do it.
Republicans are advocating for policies that benefit all Latinos – on education, jobs, health care, and immigration. We cannot lose sight of the main issues and solutions that will propel the Latino community, now the largest minority group in the United States, to well-earned success.
We invite you to join the cause. With your help and your input we will make Minnesota a better place for everyone!
Christmas Tree Lighting Events
There are more than enough Twin Cities activities to keep your family busy this holiday season. From light displays to Christmas Tree Farms, performances to family outings – you’ll find something to entertain you and your kiddos and keep everyone in the holiday spirit!
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (Shoreview)
November 20th | 6-7pm. This annual community event will again feature caroling from the Turtle Lake Elementary School choir, followed by the lighting of the trees outside of the Shoreview Community Center and Shoreview Commons Park. Refreshments will be served in the Wedell Community Room after the ceremony.
Holiday Lights in the Park (Lake Phalen, St. Paul)
November 25th – January 1st | 5:30-10pm nightly. Minnesota’s largest drive-through lights display wraps around Lake Phalen in St. Paul with more than 60 larger than life holiday light sculptures and animated displays. Tickets are $10 dollars per vehicle.
Winter Lighting Ceremony (Nicollet Commons Park – Burnsville)
November 26th | 6pm. Burnsville’s Heart of the City will once again shine with holiday lights this winter season when the area is set aglow during the community’s 16th-Annual Winter Lighting Ceremony. You’re invited to attend the ceremony, stroll through the lights, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy entertainment and free cookies and candy canes.
Holidazzle Village
November 28th – December 24th. Holidazzle Village, located on Nicollet Mall from 12th Street to 10th Street, is free to the public and will give a fresh feel to the Holidazzle experience. The Holidazzle Village will include a variety of entertainment opportunities and festivities for all ages to enjoy throughout the season.
European Christmas Market (St. Paul)
November 28th-30th | Times vary. The new European Christmas Market is based on the traditional, charming, open air markets in Germany and Austria during the Advent season.
Tree Lighting Ceremony (50th and France – Edina)
November 29th | 3-5pm. As you stroll the area, enjoy the festive sounds of the Chamber Singers of Edina High School and visits with Santa. Leading up to the grand tree lighting with City of Edina Mayor at 5:00 p.m on West 50th Street.
Rice Park Tree Lighting (St. Paul)
November 29th | 4-6pm. Last year Rice Park captured the spirit of the holiday season with a tree as tall and bright as the iconic Rockefeller Center tree in New York City. The gigantic tree was lit 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with 15,000 energy-efficient LED lights. Join them for this year’s tree lighting as the park will sparkle with millions of twinkling lights, classic Nutcracker and angel statues, and other holiday décor.
Prior Lake Downtown Dazzle
December 4th | 5-9pm. Shops & Businesses will be Open till 9 p.m. Check them all out, enjoy specials, treats, and beverages along the way. Sing along with carolers, warm your fingers and toes by the bonfires. Food trucks and photo stations are also available as well as a parade, Santa, fireworks, free candy, and more.
Sleigh Bells and Sparkles (Maple Grove)
December 6th | 5pm. Parade route runs north on Main Street downtown Maple Grove from the corner of Schuler Shoes to the Maple Grove Government Center. Culminating the end of the parade, please join Santa & Mrs. Claus as they magically light the holiday tree at the corner of Main Street and Arbor Lakes Parkway.
Anoka Christmas Tree Lighting
December 6th | 5-7pm. Come and get into the spirit of the season at the Annual Anoka Christmas Tree Lighting Event. The event will be held in the City Hall Parking Lot Plaza in historic downtown Anoka. There will be bonfires, Santa will meet FREE with children, free horse drawn carriage rides are available and of course we’ll light up the tree. It’s a great event for the whole family!
Chanhassen Christmas Tree Lighting
December 6th | 5pm. Don’t miss this annual Chanhassen celebration! The event is FREE for everyone and will be held at City Center Park (on the corner of West 78th Street and Market Boulevard). Come and enjoy the lighting of the holiday tree, refreshments, live reindeer, gingerbread house displays and, of course, a special visit from Santa Claus!
From left: Antonio Sacin, SHPE-TC with R. Jeb Myers, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School
By Antonio Sacin
In South Minneapolis, a group of Hispanic professional engineers under the direction of Alejandro Sanchez, an engineering consultant at Target, were busy setting up an event for Hispanic children and their families. This group of engineers is part of a national network known as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) from which they are part of the Twin Cities Minnesota chapter. The chapter is in operation since 1992 but has been doing a Noche de Ciencias event for the last three years. Noche de Ciencias is an event that seeks to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) within the Hispanic community. The first Noches event, as it has become known among the teachers and students, resulted in the formation of a SHPE Jr. chapter at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, a school that fits the target demographic being 77% Hispanic. That partnership has lasted for three years and has seen some of the students from the original Noches graduate and form new SHPE university chapters, one of them at the University of St. Thomas. One of these students, Angel Paucar, now from St. Thomas and a graduate of Cristo Rey gave his testimonial to younger students about his career aspirations in the field of engineering.
The President of the SHPE Twin Cities Professional chapter (SHPE-TC), Antonio Sacin, opened the event calling for students and their parents to envision a future within the career of engineer or the sciences. He added that it is a great possibility to achieve this and that SHPE-TC and SHPE have the resources to make it happen. SHPE-TC is currently being sponsored by companies such as 3M, Hormel and Medtronic, the latter of which has a network of SHPE engineers organized as a group of interest within their company. They participated as volunteers as well as SHPE university chapters from the University of Minnesota and Century College, which is opening up a new chapter. SHPE-TC is a 501c(3) corporation and gives scholarships every year to deserving Hispanic engineer students. This year, it is set to double its contribution from $3,000 to $6,000 with the recent addition of Medtronic as a sponsor.
It is not only students that learn and get inspired during Noches, there is a workshop for the parents as well. This year, SHPE-TC was able to bring over the Hispanic Outreach Liaison from the University of Minnesota who spoke to the parents about how to make the best financial choices when helping their children with a career in engineering. There were financial comparisons with the cost and what other resources exist. At the same time, the students were getting exposed with their engineering skills building mini-catapults and participating in an ‘build your own roller coaster’ event.
Left to right: Celso de la Rosa, SHPE; William Flores & Manny Hernandez, Jovenes de Salud; Antonio Sacin, SHPE; Rick Aguilar; and Carissa Ontiveros, Jovenes de Salud
The event concluded with a demonstration by Dr. Annette Raigoza, chemistry professor from the College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University on the real-life properties of atoms in graphite by showing different samples from her portable probe microscope. Parents and students alike interviewed at the event showed their gratitude for SHPE bringing career professionals and academics to depart with the students and their families for a Noche de Ciencias.
Speaking of resources, SHPE is experienced in bringing opportunities to university engineering students. Every year, at a National Conference, there are career fairs that attract thousands of Hispanic engineering students, and the companies that are seeking their talent. It is a potent match, which results in a win-win situation. The students benefit in finding their first job, the companies benefit from creating a more diverse environment. This year SHPE National Conference is in Detroit and sponsored by General Motors, a company that is seeking to expand its presence once again in the Motor City and has sponsored the revival of the local Detroit SHPE chapter.
The night ended with the drawing of prizes for the students and their families.
More information about SHPE-TC can be found at http://www.shpetwincities.org
Sharna Wahlgren (second from right)
with Rick Aguilar (far right)
By Claud Santiago
Visiting the Bymore Supermercado on Payne Avenue in St. Paul, Sharna Wahlgren candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in Minnesota’s Fourth District, pledges her support for the Hispanic business community and commends their great achievements and the important role they play in Minnesota’s economic growth. With Wahlgren for this visit and tour is Rick Aguilar, a Twin Cities business leader and one of the founders of the Minnesota Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in the 80’s and former Chair of the Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce.
Hispanic business owners transformed this area from what in the 1980’s had become a decaying urban wasteland, home to closed businesses and boarded up storefronts, to the thriving commercial district it is today. It is the realization of the American Dream and Wahlgren is on a mission to make sure that the dream stays alive. Her vision for Minnesota is to help small businesses like those on Payne Avenue grow and create more jobs. Wahlgren commented to Aguilar on the “wonderful ecomomic development that has happened in this area.” Without the enterprise and hard work of the Hispanic business owners none of this would have ever been possible,” Wahlgren commented.
Wahlgren knows full well that the Hispanic business corridors on Payne Aveune and Cesar Chavez street in Saint Paul and the E. Lake Street area in Minneapolis represent the important role the Hispanic business community plays in the ecomonic growth in the Twin Cities. These business corridors were left mostly abandoned following an exodus to the suburbs in the 70’s and late 80’s but the Hispanic immigrants didn’t see abandoned corridors, they saw the opportunity, they saw the “American Dream” and the chance to open their own businesses and create jobs in the community.
Sharna Wahlgren visiting Bymore Supermercado
Listening to the concerns of these business owners on this day, Wahlgren understands that they need to be able to grow, get more capital and be burdened less by regulations. Wahlgren understands the importance of the immigrant communities and what they can contribute to Minnesota’s economy. In her own words Wahlgren stated, “I want to keep the American Dream alive for the immigrant communities and make Minnesota a state where business thrives, all children get a great education and immigrants get the opportunity to live the good life that Minnesota offers for us all.”
Watch the Grupo de Danzas Colombianas MN perform!
La Familia Hispanic Heritage Awards will be presented at noon to Hispanic individuals who have contributed to the community and promoted their culture and values. The recipients are the following:
Sam Hernandez, Diversity Consultant and Community Activist
Dennis Medina, Minnesota Army National Guard
Jovenes de Salud: Youth Leaders: Manny Hernandez, Cecilia Marquina, Carissa Ontiveros and Nicolas Masco
ALSO VISIT THESE BOOTHS:
• USTA Northern Hispanic Outreach at the Tennis Area for Kids
• Jobs and Careers, Country Financial at Booth #12
• Juan Cervantez State Farm Agency in collaboration with the MN
Chapter Latino Police Officer Association, providing photos and fingerprinting of
children for their parents at Booths #25 and # 26
• Minnesota Twins, special Twins items for the kids at Booth #22
Visit the Minnesota Twins at Booth #22!
• Special Guest: Irene Viveros, Miss Latina Minnesota 2014
• Visit with KSTC-TV 45 at Booth #11
• AARP information for seniors at Booth #13
• West Side Community Health Services, health and wellness information,
family planning, MNsure information and testing at Booth #15
La Familia 2014 Schedule:
11:00am-11:30am: Welcome Rick Aguilar, Aguilar Productions
11:30am-12:00pm: Academia Cesar Chavez Mariachi
12:00pm-1:00pm: Hispanic Heritage Awards Presentation
1:00pm-1:30pm: Grupo Danza de Coloumbianos MN.
2:00pm-3:00pm: Zumba Presentations
3:00pm-4:00pm: DJ Music
Primary Election Day on Tuesday, August 12, is fast approaching. The primary will determine candidates for the November 4 General Election ballot. While the voter pre-registration period ended on July 22, eligible voters may still register to vote at their polling place on Primary Election Day. Eligible voters may continue to pre-register for the November 4 General Election through October 14 by using online voter registration at mnvotes.org, or registering by mail.
To register at your polling place on Election Day, bring a valid Minnesota driver’s license, learner’s permit or ID card. Additionally, voters may use other accepted photo IDs accompanied by a document such as a utility bill that shows the voter’s name and current address. To see all the options, visit mnvotes.org and click on “Register to Vote.” At the website, voters also may check the status of their registration, find the location of their polling place and more.
Voter Outreach Team, Tools Available in Spanish
A voter outreach team from the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State is available to help companies, nonprofits, educational institutions, government agencies and others engage and prepare eligible voters for participation in the 2014 election season.
The goal of the outreach effort is to encourage voter participation during this significant election year: On November 4, Minnesota voters will head to the polls to decide a U.S. Senate seat, all of Minnesota’s eight U.S. House seats, as well as governor and other state officers, and all Minnesota State House seats. There will be many important local and county elections on the ballot as well in 2014.
Interested organizations can request “Promote the Vote” workshops, voter registration information, as well as educational voter materials — many available in Spanish. All materials are available at no charge at mnvotes.org, including promotional videos.
Maria de la Paz (pictured left) is one of the five voter outreach specialists from the office who are working this summer to encourage voter participation and engagement. De la Paz will focus her efforts on Latino communities to educate eligible voters about the voting process and help with voter registration. Groups can connect directly with de la Paz via email, maria.lopez@state.mn.us, or call her at (651)201-1362.
Key 2014 Election Dates
• August 12 — Primary Election Day. This election will determine the candidates for the November 4 ballot. The voter pre-registration period has ended, but eligible voters may still register at their polling place on Primary Election Day.
• September 19 — Absentee ballots will be available for the November 4 General Election.
• October 14 — Pre-registration deadline for the General Election. Voters are encouraged to pre-register to vote to avoid a wait at the polling place. Voters who miss this deadline may still register at their polling place on Election Day, November 4.
• November 4 — General Election Day.
Minnesota has the depressing distinction of having the highest drop-out rate for high school Latinos in the country. So it’s wonderful to feature this outstanding young Latina, Estela Mejia (pictured left).
Latino American Today recently met with Estela Mejia, who arrived in Minnesota only 6 years ago from Honduras, with her family. Estela recently graduated from high school as the Number #1 Valedictorian in her school and a GPA of 3.98. She gave the keynote commencement speech and honored God for her success. Latino American Today asked her the following questions:
* LAT: How did you overcome the language barrier when you started school in the U.S. (Minnesota)
I overcame the language barrier by staying after school with my teachers in middle school. Also during classes I would listen to books and also read vocabulary books with images. I did not sit in the cafeteria with the other kids, I went to my teacher’s classroom and ate there while watching movies in English. My teacher put on movies that I knew in Spanish so that when I heard in English I would know what was said. Lastly, I remember that my dad made my brother and me translate a paragraph of a book every night by using the dictionary and then read it to him.
*LAT: What or who motivated you to study and have the success you’ve had.
The most important person is God. I know that he always wants the best for me and that through the struggles that I went through he was with me. My family always told me to study to become someone and I have seen how hard they have worked to bring the bread to the table every day and when it was time to pay a bill how hard it has been for them to have the money. My family has motivated me because I said to myself, “When I grow up I want to give back to them and make their situation better. I want to be that daughter that makes them proud and they can rely on.”
*LAT: What are you plans for the future with your education.
My plan in the future is to become an immigration lawyer. My grandfather use to ask me what I wanted to be and my answer was, to be a lawyer. When I arrived in the United States and saw the struggles of my Latino community with this issue, I decided to become an immigration lawyer. So I will be attending the University of Minnesota to study Pre-Law and then to Law School.
“There are two reasons that I decided to stay for schooling in Minnesota. The first one is because my church is here and the second one is to be close to my family. I think it was not the time to go far for these two reasons and that God will say when the correct time to leave is,” stated Mejia.
Hispanic women are gaining prominence in the U.S. and are becoming a strong influence on the mainstream economy. With 52 million in the U.S. population, Hispanics collectively have an impressive buying power of $1.2 trillion dollars. Within the overall Hispanic demographic, however, the women are the ones in the driver’s seat, according to a recent report published by Nielsen.
Hispanic women, also called Latinas, are the growth engine of the U.S. female population and are expected to represent 30 percent of the total female population by 2060, while the non-Hispanic white female population is expected to drop to 43 percent.
Latinas are becoming more educated, tech savvy and connected, allowing them to write their own destinies and challenge the dynamic of Hispanic households. With 86 percent of Latina women at the helm of purchasing decisions in households, the times are changing and economic power is shifting.
“Latinas are a key driver of economic influence, giving marketers an opportunity to establish new and loyal consumer relationships by acknowledging the needs and following the unique behavior trends of Hispanic women,” said Mónica Gil senior vice president, public affairs and government relations.
According to the findings in the new Nielsen report, Latinas are making strides by way of their strong drives to improve their education and cultivate strong careers. In fact, Latinas are outpacing their Latino counterparts in both areas, and are overwhelmingly the decision-makers in household spending.
For the first time, Latinas are exceeding non-Hispanic females in college enrollment. A record 73 percent of Hispanic high school female graduates are enrolling in college, 11 percent ahead of Hispanic males.
In significant areas, Latinas are avid users of technology and social media to stay culturally connected while they’re on-the-go and their day-to-day activities. For many Latinas, personal technology and social networking are helping them maintain their ethnic culture, language and traditions.
The modern Latina is also ambicultural, able to pivot from English to Spanish, Latina to American and back again. Bilingual language proficiency has significantly increased among Latinas, while the proportion of Spanish dominance has held steady and the proportion of English dominance has declined significantly.
When it comes time to shop, family needs are at the top of Latinas’ shopping lists. Reflecting the prevalence of larger families and cultural nuances, Latina purchasing decisions often span many food categories. High levels of purchasing are also often reflected in oral hygiene products, bottle water, detergent and paper products, for example.
Cinco de Mayo should not be confused with Mexican Independence Day which is celebrated on September 16th. Cinco de Mayo is not a largely observed holiday in Mexico (with the exception of a few regions), but is much more popular in the United States. So, what is Cinco de Mayo? The short answer is that it celebrates the defeat of the French Army by Mexican soldiers at the battle of Puebla. The real answer is that Cinco de Mayo is a uniquely Mexican-American holiday. It celebrates a change in the relationship between the United States and Mexico.
The end of the Mexican-American war in 1848, not only left a strained relationship between the two countries, but left Mexico deep in debt which grew through the years of civil war. Mexico borrowed money from European countries and eventually, these countries wanted their debts repaid. England and Spain entered the scene and left just as quickly, but France took advantage of their moment and decided to invade. As it turned out, Napoleon III was determined to conquer Mexico, set a Hapsburg prince on a Mexican throne, and rule over Mexico. Some argue that from Mexico, Napoleon wanted to aid the Confederacy in the U.S. Civil War. Exactly what role the French defeat at Puebla played in the U.S. Civil War is debatable, but if the French had supplied the confederacy more actively, the war could have been longer, harder and much bloodier.
When the Mexican Army defeated the first invading battalion they were greatly outnumbered and faced with a technologically superior force making the triumph all the greater; the reason it is celebrated today. Ironically, this battle did not end of conflict between Mexico and France, but was just the beginning. French forces returned a year later in larger numbers and took control of Mexico placing the puppet Maximilian in charge of Mexico. The people of Mexico resisted and once the Civil War ended in the United States, President Lincoln sent General Sheridan to supply the Mexican resistance. Many U.S. soldiers were decommissioned from the Union Army in Texas to join the Mexican Army. A battalion of U.S. soldiers marched in the victory parade in Mexico City when Maximilian was finally defeated in 1868. In honor of the aid provided by the United States, thousands of Mexicans crossed the border to join the U.S. military in the weeks after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
It is unfortunate that the real story of Cinco de Mayo remains lost to advertisers who see it as little more than an excuse to sell beer (Cinco de Mayo is now the second largest beer consuming day of the year just behind St. Patrick’s Day). It is a celebration of the long relationship between the United States and Mexico, including years of cooperation, and the hope of a future where two neighbors can set aside their differences and work together.
So celebrate Cinco de Mayo by remembering why we celebrate it and with a nod to Mexican traditions and foods. Put together a great molé or a traditional carne asada and enjoy the Mexican Grill.
Pictured from left: Alfredo Frias, Gloria Frias, and Jose Frias
St. Paul has a favorite Mexican restaurant, that is recommended by the local citizens, the chamber of commerce, food critics, taxi drivers, newspapers and is always on the top in restaurant polls. The favorite is the Boca Chica. If you want delicious Mexican food, great margaritas, award winning salsa, strolling mariachis, lots of history and hospitality, all in a friendly neighborhood with great free parking, you get all that at the Boca Chica.
This March 6, the restaurant is celebrating its 50th anniversary. From its March, 1964 opening with a 400 square-foot dining area, a small kitchen, 6 tables and standard chairs that could seat 28 people to the current restaurant with 2800 square feet that can seat over two hundred customers in festive, colorful mural filled rooms with fireplaces and a wonderful patio area, this is the Boca Chica. For thousands of their fans and customers from throughout the Twin Cities, it is their favorite Mexican restaurant.
The restaurant is still located in its original location on St. Paul’s West Side. The founders and owners, Guillermo and Gloria Frias started this modest business without a real plan, but with some experience.
Gloria Frias was no newcomer to the restaurant business. Her parents Arturo and Elvira Coronado started the first Mexican restaurant in Minnesota on St. Paul’s West Side flats in the 1940’s and for decades, the Coronado family ran, La Casa Coronado. Guillermo (who passed in 2004) and Gloria have 4 children, Alfredo, Steve, Eddie and Cristela. Steve and Eddie were involved in the business but then went on to their own careers. Alfredo is the manager and visionary of the Boca Chica and his younger sister Cristela, his son Jose and daughter Jesie are very active and important to the daily operations.
Gloria is semi-retired but you can still see her at the restaurant helping out and greeting the customers in her charming way. Celebrating fifty years in business allows one to look back, from being the only restaurant in St. Paul to serve Mexican food back in 1964, to 2014 with a city with many Mexican restaurants, small family owned, as well as large franchises, supermarket aisles full of Mexican foods, Taco Bells, and everyone making their own burritos, beans and rice at home. Mexican food is mainstream! Still the Boca Chica remains special, busy and a favorite.Congratulations to the Frias family on their 50th anniversary. Thanks for all the good times at the Boca, with your happy hours, taco specials, hanging out on your patio and the fun and colorful Cinco de Mayo celebrations we love every year. We look forward to many more wonderful Mexican experiences at the Boca Chica.
Pictured: Spc. Carissa J. Mero
She thrives when she is given an assignment and brings forth perseverance by finishing tasks in a timely manner whether it is making ID cards for fellow soldiers or reviewing military award recommendations. Her dedication and professionalism has made an impression on not only the soldiers in her unit but her younger female cousins.
“I feel that it is very important that I am setting an example for my younger cousins,” said Mero. “I’m helping them realize that they can do whatever they want if they are willing to put forth the effort.”
Mero’s enlistment in the Minnesota National Guard has also made an impact on the way in which her culture views her. It was not that long ago she was perceived as just a young girl, yet today her image is that of an empowered woman.
As a member of the Minnesota National Guard, Mero realized that her Puerto Rican culture is well respected and the members of her fellow soldiers treat her no different than they would anyone else, she said.
Outside of her drill weekends and on a larger scale, Mero has seen the Minnesota National Guard involved in her community functions like the St. Paul annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. This joint community outreach makes her proud not only as a Puerto Rican but as a member of the Minnesota National Guard.
“It is important that we treat each other the same, from the top down because that is how impressions are made on soldiers and I think that our leadership does a great job of treating everyone as equals,” said Mero.
The Minnesota National Guard has taken an active role in diversifying the force, which has and will continue to benefit the Minnesota Guard as cultural diversity expands.
“We are committed to fostering an environment that truly represents the demographics of the communities in which we serve. We must reflect those whom we lead, serve and protect,” said Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Richard C. Nash.
Pictured: Maria Isa
Born Maria IsaBelle Perez-Vega to Puerto Rican parents, she grew up in St. Paul’s Westside. One of her most cherished projects is educating youth about Afro-Caribbean and Latino culture through history, music, song, and dance. She has served as the artistic director of non-profit El Arco Iris Center for the Arts since 2008, founded by her mother and aunt in 1992.
2013 Highlights
In 2013, Maria released two albums, The Latina Ritual Project, a full-length showcase compilation, and Latinization, produced by Young Mennace and released by In the Groove Records. Six songs from Latinization were featured in the Fast and Furious video game, and several songs were produced to score hit TV shows including Keeping up with the Kardashians and MTV’s Snooki.
Maria was showcased at the 2013 X Games in Los Angeles at Ford Fiesta Stage at the Staples Center. She also produced and performed the “Mi Sazones” grocery song for Target and hosted Noble Peace Laureate Rigoberta Menchu Tum in Denver to honor world peace and youth empowerment.
“Maria is a full package of a Latina who knows what she wants and is working to do it right in Hollywood,” describes Danny Trejo. “Not only does she focus on giving a great performance, but she’s dedicated towards serving her community and that’s what it’s all about,” says Machete icon Danny Trejo
Kicking off 2014 in Hollywood
Maria kicked off 2014 featuring her vocals on the Bud Light “Cool Twist” commercial. With her company SotaRico—a term she developed in 2008 to represent Puerto Rico’s flavor in Minnesota—Maria is setting up shop in Los Angeles as she prepares to release her latest album Valley of the Dolls produced by Andrew Bergen, and the anticipated Strike One, an independent full-length film by Boricua Films, starring Danny Trejo.
This spring Maria will tour with hip-hop duo Villa Rosa. “Every time I hit the stage I do it with pride, because I’m proud of where I come from, and I am doing what the women in my family have encouraged me to do: respect myself, have faith, be strong and keep following your dreams, no matter what,” says Maria.
Maria Isa will perform at Aria MPLS in Minneapolis on February 28th, and at The Mint in LA on March 20th with Villa Rosa. For more information, visit www.misotarico.com.
Photography by Adam Stanzak
Strike One picture courtesy of Boricua Films/2014
Al iniciar un nuevo año, es muy común escuchar la expresión “¡año nuevo vida nueva!”. Es muy probable que en alguna ocasión nosotros mismos lo hemos usando, al momento de plantearnos las metas y resoluciones del nuevo año. Ahora, la realidad es que para alcanzar una “vida nueva” se requiere más que una expresión optimista.
Un nuevo año sin duda es una gran oportunidad para cumplir nuevas metas, planes y proyectos de vida. Sin embargo, no es suficiente con cambiar la hoja del calendario o una nueva agenda. Cuando cruzamos la linea del tiempo de un año a otro, en realidad, se nos está presentando 365 días para avanzar en esas metas y proyectos, que nos hemos planteado; de tal forma que puedan ser aprovechados al usarlos como escalones para alcanzar nuestras metas.
El gran caudillo Moisés, en su oración a Dios pide de una manera muy interesante “Enséñanos de tal modo á contar nuestros días, Que traigamos al corazón sabiduría” (Salmo 90:12). “Contar nuestros días”, fuera interesante si contáramos esos 365 días como inversiones a nuestro favor, como se cuentan las finanzas a largo plazo para hacernos sabios. Jesús también hizo mención de un hombre sabio que invirtió con mucho esfuerzo y dedicación.
Este hombre construyó su casa en la roca, aunque esto le puedo llevar más tiempo, pero como era sabio aseguro su inversión a largo plazo; de tal forma que soporto las adversidades que se presentaron con los cambios de clima, su casa prevaleció y nada la derrumbó. ¡Que bueno sería para nosotros y nuestras familias que estos 365 días sean escalones para avanzar y crecer en cada área de nuestra vida!
El optimismo es bueno, pero no es suficiente, puede agotarse en la primera adversidad que se presente. Para ser como ese hombre sabio, hay que tener visión clara de donde queremos llegar y como lo hiciera Moisés en su oración pedir a Dios que nos dé sabiduría para construir en la Roca.
Aunque estos 365 días se parezcan a cualquier otro día, una semana a cualquier otra semana, un mes a cualquier otro mes y este 2014 a cualquier otro año; recordémos que a largo plazo este día, esta semana y este año no volverán y serán historia, construyamos o no, así que mejor aprovechemos y hagamos historia con ellos forjémos con estos 365 días un futuro.
¡Feliz y próspero 2014!
Pastora Gisella Arias-Olson Sirve junto a su esposo y familia en la Iglesia de Dios Rios de Agua Viva.
16108 Harmony PathServicios: Domingos 5pm,
Martes 7pm
Para servicios de consejería escriba a: gisellaarias@serycrecerusa.com
Thousands of Latinos come to Minnesota each year in search of the American Dream. They want to get good jobs so their families can have better lives and more opportunities. The key to getting a good job is education, but many Latinos don’t know about the educational options available to them in the Twin Cities.
As Executive Director of the International Education Center (IEC), I want to make sure more people in the Latino community know about the services we provide. The IEC, located in downtown Minneapolis, offers free classes to adult immigrants and refugees in English, math and computer skills. Our classes also help students prepare to earn their GED and increase their employability. More than 1,000 students from over 80 countries come to the IEC each year. One-third of those students are Latino.
But we know there are many more in the Minnesota Latino community who could benefit from the services we offer. In fact, according to the Pew Hispanic Center, about 35% of the Hispanic population in Minnesota does not speak English well. And the unemployment rate for Minnesota Hispanics is 8.1%.
Latino students at the IEC are seeing a difference on the job and at home as their English skills improve.
Yessenia Gavilanes, age 34, has been a student at the IEC for two years. Originally from Ecuador, she came to Minnesota 10 years ago. She and her husband own a limousine business and she also works as a prep cook at Seven Sushi. Yessenia says the English classes at the IEC are making it easier for her to speak to customers who call her limousine business, and she can better communicate with her managers at Seven Sushi. Yessenia also has three sons, ages 6, 13 and 17. Learning English is making it possible for her to help them with their homework and understand emails she receives from their schools. Yessenia is working toward her goal of going to college to be a pastry chef.
Noel Olalde, age 30, is also benefitting from classes at the IEC. He came to Minnesota from Mexico 10 years ago, and currently works at Mister Car Wash. Noel says learning English is making it easier for him to talk to customers at his job. In addition, it helps him in his everyday life. He is able to understand the preacher at his church, and he can read the information he receives in the mail. Noel says his writing and listening skills are also improving. He hopes to get his GED one day.
These are just two examples of the many Latino students who have benefitted from the classes we offer at the IEC. If you or someone you know would like to learn English, please contact the IEC at 612-871-6350 or visit our website at www.iecminnesota.org.
David Gaither is a former Minnesota State Senator and Chief of Staff to former Governor Tim Pawlenty. He primarily focused on education and commerce during his time in office. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the International Education Center.
Pictured to the left: Dennis Nguyen
(St. Paul, MN…) Surrounded by a diverse group of family, friends and supporters, Dennis Nguyen (pronounced “win”) announced today that he is running for Minnesota Secretary of State. Nguyen is a Republican from Minneapolis, a father of four and the Chairman of New Asia Partners and Newport Capital, both Minneapolis-based financial services firms. He was introduced at the announcement by the Win with Nguyen Campaign Chairman and former Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum and joined at the podium by current and former members of the Minnesota legislature, distinguished community and business leaders and supporters.
“I have been fortunate to live the classic American dream, arriving here as the child of working class, Vietnamese immigrants, getting a great education and succeeding in business,” said Nguyen. “As Secretary of State, I want to make sure that dream is available to all Minnesotans - through their right to vote and participate in elections, and in their ability to start and grow a business.”
Along with his parents and three siblings, he came to the United States in May 1975 and settled in Anaheim, CA. His father worked three jobs for most of his childhood and his mother did not speak a word of English at the time of her arrival to the US.
“I feel an overwhelming sense of pride whenever I step into the voting booth and my goal as Secretary of State is to foster a system where every Minnesotan feels that same level of pride,” said Nguyen. “This is only possible if every voter trusts the integrity of our process and we remove all barriers to voting for eligible voters.” Nguyen has worked for some of the world’s leading corporations including Nortel Networks, Citigroup, Credit Agricole, Indosuez and Daiwa Securities SMBC. Leveraging experience gained at these firms, Dennis then started his own financial services firm, New Asia Partners, working with entrepreneurs in achieving their dreams and creating jobs along the way.
Left to right: Andrew Ojeda, Rick Aguilar, Dennis Nguyen, and Maria de la Paz
“I intend to make the Secretary of State’s office a one stop shop for business creation and capital formation in Minnesota. We can construct a new public private partnership with our office as the hub of a 21st century Minnesota economy—an ecosystem designed to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, lawyers, accountants and bankers to create new sustainable, middle class jobs.”
“I am not a career politician,” added Nguyen. “I am like many of you: a son, parent, neighbor, business person, taxpayer and an involved member of our community. I think people are seeking solutions from their government and want someone with new ideas and experience from the business world. I hope you will join us in this campaign to re-invigorate the American Dream for our children and grandchildren.”
Pictured to the left: Alondra Cano
Minneapolis voters have elected the first Mexican-American and the first Hmong-American to serve on the City Council.
Alondra Cano is the unofficial winner in the 9th Ward, representing south Minneapolis and the Phillips neighborhood. Blong Yang has won in the 5th Ward, the seat representing north Minneapolis.
Cano, 32, was born in Minnesota and raised in Mexico. She will be the first Mexican-American to serve on the Minneapolis City Council.
A Minneapolis Public Schools employee, Cano hopes her election will inspire more Latinos and people of color to get involved in city government and that the growing ethnic diversity on the council will help the city.
“I think it’s really going to help our city lead with racial equity in mind,” Cano said. “My entire life, I’ve worked on efforts to make sure the diverse communities of Minneapolis and Minnesota were engaged, empowered and served by the various institutions that govern us.”
She added, “I’m humbled. I’m excited. I’m ready to serve.”
Yang said he was relieved the election was over. “My goodness, the suspense was killing me,” said Yang. “But I’m just relieved that it’s done and that we got a majority of the votes, and we just want to move on.”
Yang said it was about time the council got more diverse but, “I don’t think diversity will mean much if we don’t get stuff done. So we need to get stuff done.”
Election officials finished vote counting in the City Council races Friday under the city’s ranked-choice voting system. Officials also said Linea Palmisano has won the southwest Minneapolis ward 13 seat currently held by Betsy Hodges, who was declared the city’s mayor elect in unofficial results last night.
In the 6th Ward, Abdi Warsame defeated incumbent Robert Lilligren on Tuesday to become the first person of Somali descent to hold municipal office in the United States.
Photo courtesy of Alondra Cano campaign
The Campos-Duffy family
The LIBRE Initiative (LIBRE), a non-profit, non-partisan organization welcomed Rachel Campos-Duffy to their team of dedicated eco- nomic freedom advocates. Rachel works with LIBRE as strategist and spokesperson in a national effort to expand their message of economic liberty and opportunity to Latinas, youth, and faith-based communities. “The LIBRE Initiative works to advance policies and initiatives that honor America’s heritage of economic freedom, self-reliance and more efficient government - policies that make it possible for all American communities to thrive and prosper.
LIBRE seeks to grow the economic contributions of the U.S. Hispanic community, and Rachel has shown to be of like mind, a true inspiration who we are thrilled to have on our team,” said Daniel Garza, LIBRE’s Executive Director. Eager to comment on everything from parenting to family, politics, and cultural issues, Campos-Duffy is emerging as a celebrity Latina conservative voice. “I think demographically you saw what happened in the election,” she said.
“Hispanics pulled Obama over the finish line. The message is that we have the power and Hispanics are beginning to understand the power they have -What will dissipate our power,” Campos-Duffy said,“is if we hand it over to one party. When both parties are competing for the Hispanic voter, Hispanics will be better. Hispanic women, in particular, have the power because what we are doing in the marketplace is amazing.” Sometimes well-intentioned programs can lead to dependency and cause us to forget we have what it takes to attain the American dream,” she said. “Hispanics are hard working, and that’s something I’m very passionate about.
Rachel is a parenting expert, author, blogger, political pundit, and television personality. She got her television start almost 20 years ago on MTV’s iconic reality show, The Real World. Today, Rachel is a recurring guest on NBC’s Today Show, dispensing parenting and relation- ship advice. She has also guest-hosted ABC’s The View and appeared on Dr. Phil, FOX and Friends, The Hannity Show, Politically Incorrect, EWTN’s The World Over Live and numerous CNN shows where she is a frequent on-camera commentator on parenting, politics, and culture. Rachel, who is married to Congressman Sean Duffy of Wisconsin, is also a busy mom of six and an accomplished author of her book, “Stay Home, Stay Happy: 10 Secrets to Loving At-home Motherhood” (2009 by Penguin), as well as a frequent contributor to the Today Show blog, TodayMoms.com, National Review Online, The American Spectator, Catholicvote.org, and NBCLatino.com among others.
As things heat up with ACA implementation, a lot of attention is being given to Hispanics. While some of that attention is driven by politics (based on the significant impact Hispanics had on the results of the 2012 election), most of it is being driven by market realities. Specifically, three characteristics of the Hispanic population:
• The Hispanic population is large and growing - totaling over 51 million
• Hispanics are young – the median age of Hispanics in the U.S. is 28 (compared to 37 for the general market)
• Many Hispanics are uninsured – 30.7% of all uninsured in the U.S. are Hispanics, totaling 15.8 million
Hidden in this demographic data is the strategic importance of getting uninsured Hispanics to participate in the Exchanges. Since Hispanics are younger and therefore healthier, they are an important population from a risk perspective. If lots of currently uninsured, relatively younger and healthier Hispanics participate in the Exchanges, they will bring down the risk pool from an actuarial perspective. That means they make lower cost health insurance for relatively older, less healthy populations more economically feasible. Some say the success of ACA depends on the heavy participation of Hispanics.
Now this is much easier said than done. This attractive Hispanic “Young & Healthy” population is made up of a lot of men... a lot of Hispanic men with an “invincible” mentality. We’ve seen in countless research studies quotes from this segment of Hispanics to the tune of “I’m young... I won’t get sick. Why pay if you never get sick?” Add to this the confusion that many Hispanics face when dealing with a U.S. healthcare system. Again, healthcare vets will tell you that the U.S. healthcare system is particularly bewildering to many Hispanic immigrants (not to mention the broader population).
There is a prevalent mindset among many Hispanics that private health insurance is too expensive for them to afford. There are also cultural barriers to the idea of health insurance – a common misconception among Hispanics is that insurance is something you buy only when you get sick.
While these challenges are significant, there is a path to success with Hispanics and healthcare. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
•Segmentation is critical – formative research to segment your Hispanic audience is critical. When it comes to healthcare, Hispanic men and women behave differently, driven by different motivators
•Understand that you will be undertaking a behavior change program, not unlike public health campaign to get people to exercise more, not smoke or eat differently
•Digital is key – the Exchanges will be online, so your marketing has to align with the product.
Members of the Mexican American Veterans Post #5 participated in the annual South St. Paul Kaposia Days event on June29th. The veterans included, Joseph Medina at 99, the St. Paulite and Army veteran is believed to be the oldest living WWII vet of Latino descent in the Twin Cities, if not the state. Medina was made a U.S. citizen shortly before he was handed a rifle and shipped off to the Pacific theater where he was assigned to MacArthur’s Eighth Army. Augustine Martinez, a former Army infantryman from St. Paul who engaged enemy troops in German-occupied France. He served with the 65th Infantry Division part of the George Patton Third Army Division. Manny Aguirre, a coxswain and driver on the USS Ozark’s Landing Craft vehicle and Personnel Boat No. 2, which transported invasion troops to the body-riddled and blood-drenched shores of Luzon, Iwo Jima and Okinawa. These Latino Americans were among the one-half million Mexican American, Puerto Rican and other Latinos who served, died and survived World War II.
These American heroes were among the World War II veterans who participated as the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Minnesota Wing recently hosted its second Kaposia Days Open house at Fleming Field in South St. Paul. It was a great event and they were able to share it with many WWII Veterans from around the Twin Cities. The CAF strives to preserve our nation’s military aviation history and events like the Kaposia Days open house help them do just that. In addition to open houses, they also host two hangar dances each year.
The first dance was in early June and the second one will be on September 7th. The dances are another opportunity for the Wing to showcase their WWII Aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts. They encourage attendees to dress up in period costume (1940s) and enjoy the Swing Dancing, honoring veterans, and taking a tour through our aircraft. It is so important for places like the Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing to keep history alive for many generations to learn and enjoy.
In addition to the events and the museum the CAF also offers the public the opportunity to take a flight in many of the historic airplanes used in World War II. The Commemorative Air Force Minnesota Wing is proud to offer you the opportunity to experience flying in one of our authentic World War II aircraft! We offer a ride in a wide selection of aircraft, based upon your interest and budget. No piloting experience is necessary!
All flights include a pre-flight briefing with one of our experienced, commercial-rated pilots. Many of our pilots also work for major airlines. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions about the aircraft and its operational history. History flights are conducted spring, summer and fall, but can be booked at any time. Flights depart from South St. Paul Municipal Airport (Fleming Field), where our aircraft are based. We also offer flights at select airshow venues around the country.
By booking a flight, you’re not only getting to experience flying in an authentic WWII aircraft, you’re also helping to preserve them! All proceeds go toward maintaining the aircraft. As a 501c3 non-profit, your flight is also tax deductible up to the maximum amount allowed by law. We look forward to having you fly with us soon!
For general questions or to book a flight, call Tom @ 952-412-8815.
In the 2012 Presidental elections Latino Americans voted in record numbers throughout the country, including Minnesota. In preparation for the upcoming elections, Latino American Today will begin a series of interviews with candidates here in Minnesota who are running for various offices. We begin our series with Scott Honour who is running for governor, we will continue in the Fall with the Mayor of Minneapolis race and then next Spring with many others in preparation for the crucial 2014 elections. We will be visiting with candidates and asking them about issues important to the Latino American community.
Last week we sat down with Scott Honour, he is running for governor of Minnesota, and he answered our questions:
Answer: I was born in Fridley, Minnesota my parents lived in a trailer park. Growing up my parents worked very hard to make a home for us. My father was an airline pilot and my mother stayed home to raise my brother Kirk and me. My most cherished memories are from camping trips I took with my family. My parents taught us about hard work and the value of an education. Most importantly, I learned that family, faith, and community come first, values that my wife, Jamie, and I are passing on to our three children. I know first hand what it is like when a family goes through tough times. My dad lost his job as a pilot when the airline he worked for went bankrupt. I learned that a family’s economic circumstances can change quickly through no fault of their own.
Answer: Minnesota is headed in the wrong direction with Mark Dayton as governor. We need the right kind of leadership. We need a leader who understands, above all else, how to create jobs and grow the economy. Someone who will reform state government, who will take a fresh look at most everything government does and ask, “Why are we doing this?” Someone who views government’s role as working to better people’s lives, not run them. I’ve spent my life in business. I’m not a politician. I know I can bring results-oriented conservative leadership to our state so we promote job growth, improve education and more effectively help our citizens in need with a hand up.
Answer: My top priority will be to make sure we create jobs, grow the economy, and bring back fiscal responsibility. In my business career,
we saved and created jobs and I know that experience will serve me well as governor. If we pursue the right policies in Minnesota, we can
get the economy going and make businesses comfortable with growing and expanding in our state. Through a combination of hard work, a good education and a little luck, I’ve had some success in life. I want to make sure as many Minnesotans as possible have that same chance for success, no matter where they started in life.
Answer: In 2012, Minnesota had the largest Hispanic education achievement gap in the country. That’s embarrassing and it will change when I’m governor. A quality education is crucial to achieving success in our state and in our global, knowledge economy, and we need to make sure that our schools aren’t failing our Latino citizens. We need to get better education results for students and parents. As governor, I will put in place measurable goals, reward our best teachers, reduce burdensome administrative costs, and give parents more choices. In addition, Latino-owned businesses make up an increasing number of new small business. The tax and regulatory agenda just passed by Governor Dayton and the legislature will make it extremely difficult to grow or expand a business here in Minnesota. In fact, according to a recent survey, Minnesota is last in new business start-ups. That’s destroying opportunities for thousands of Minnesota families. While we need sensible regulations, we need to eliminate unnecessary red tape.
A new member has joined the Multicultural Student Center at Century College. Yessica Santana is the new Latino Student Services Coordinator, Recruiter, and Advisor at the campus. Her role is to provide culturally sensitive programs that foster and promote academic and personal success for Latino students. Her goal is to create a strong support system for Latino students where they can feel connected and welcome.
Yessica has been involved in the planning and implementation of many educational conferences, camps, and fairs throughout her career. She plans to use her experience to bring families and students to campus to learn about the variety of Century College programs and degrees, which can lead directly to employment or transfer to a four year university.
Century College offers students:
• Smaller Class Sizes
• Academic Options
• Convenient Location
• Diverse Student Population
• Expert Faculty
• LifePlan for Success
• Support Services
Century College students feel that a Century College education provides a great return on investment. If you or your student is interested in learning more about Century College, the application process or would like to visit the campus, please contact Yessica at 651.747.4089.
Century College. Your Bridge to Success.
News from Washington D.C. is that the planning of the National Museum of the American Latino (NMAL) is moving forward. Our Minnesota Latino American community can play a role of supporting the building of the museum and raising funds for the project. We are ready to join in the effort and plan to form “The Friends of the Museum, Minnesota Chapter.” A meeting will be held in September in Saint Paul, where we
will be getting an update on the Museum planning and how we Latino Americans in Minnesota and our supporters can be involved in this historic project. We want to thank supporters in advance for offering to help host this informational meeting and reception. If you are interested in learning more, you can contact Aguilar Productions.
Today, we thank Senators Robert Menendez, Harry Reid, and Marco Rubio and Representatives Xavier Becerra and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for reintroducing the Smithsonian American Latino Museum Act in 113th Congress. This bill will give the future Smithsonian American Latino Museum a home in the historic Arts and Industries Building on the nation’s front yard, the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Senator Rubio said, “Authorizing the use of federal land on the National Mall is an important step in laying the ground work to establish the American Latino Museum. This will be an enduring monument as much to the people who have found opportunity and refuge in America as it is a tribute to our exceptional country that has always welcomed people and helped them realize their dreams like no other place in human history. At a time when our nation faces major economic and fiscal challenges, I am pleased that this effort will not rely on taxpayer dollars and that this bill will encourage private fundraising efforts to make it a reality.”
