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November 2010
g n i r o n o H who serve ny those cson s Easy Compa ns of Tu a r te e v r a W n a e r o The K
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ARIZONA EDITION
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• NOVemBER 2010
• ARIZONA EDITION
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Journal of the American Latino Dream
Volume 7
24
{November 2010}
Issue 3
Remembered
The soldiers of Tucson’s Easy Company have vivid memories of the Korean War. This month we honor their unforgettable story
53
Care goes both ways
Caregivers, usually family members, devote themselves to loved ones in need of help. But striking a balance of care is essential
42 7
From the publisher
8
¿Será posible?
We salute those who serve, with a focus on a group of Korean War veterans from Tucson
A dating service for ... cheaters?
12 LP journal Olmos still ornery; H.B. 2281 challenged; line of duty, not lie on duty; RIP, Sen. Garcia
14 Vibe The Longoria Affair; Latino Norton Anthology;
American Sabor at MIM; LAA responds to CAA
19 Rincón del arte
Film writer-director Marco Santiago wants to hold up a mirror for a little self-reflection
On the cover: Gabriel Campos, left, and Eddie “Mickey” Rios in Korea, 1951
31
47 Those who serve
Movin’ Up
Leal joins SRP; Victoria Foundation honors education leaders; Macias heads up KJZZ’s Fronteras: Changing America Desk
In memoriam: Army Pvt. 1st Class Barbara Vieyra, soldier in Operation Enduring Freedom
49 Education Math-Science Honors Program at ASU The prepares students for the real (SMET) world
35 Entrepreneur America Corrales is all about quality and
consistency. No wonder she’s already opened her third taco shop
37 Do you need to hire employees or independent Briefcase
contractors? Make sure you know the difference
41 Career Public service goes well beyond politics or
volunteering. It’s about carrying out policy for your own community
58 Time out
The Phoenix Mercury’s champion guard/forward Diana Taurasi, a.k.a. DT, Dee – and cover girl
69 P.S.
Stella Pope Duarte: I never mourned Vietnam
70 My perspective
Chris Bustamante, president of Rio Salado College, on attaining higher education goals
Coming in December:
giving with purpose and gusto www.latinopm.com
¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
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10/7/2010 3:41:41 PM
¡! from the executive editor
November 2010 Publisher/CEO Ricardo Torres
Thankful for our veterans
Executive Editor/COO Cecilia Rosales, Ph.D. Editor Rosa Cays Art Director Charles Sanderson Contributing Writers Catherine Anaya, Chris Bustamante, Erica Cardenas, Dan Cortez, Jonathan Higuera, Ruben Hernandez, Stella Pope Duarte, Charles Sanderson, Georgann Yara Director of Sales and Marketing Carlos Jose Cuervo Advertising Account Executives: Grace Alvarez and Barry Farber Executive Assistant to CEO & COO Olivia Rojas Staff Writer Sam Naser Webmaster Jorge Quintero
Contact Us
www.latinopm.com 3877 N. 7th St., Ste. 200 Phoenix, Arizona 85014 602-277-0130 Advertising: sales@latinopm.com Editorial: editor@latinopm.com Design: art@latinopm.com
Subscriptions For home or office delivery, please send your name, address, phone number, and a check for $24 to Latino Perspectives Magazine at the address above. Subscriptions also available for credit-card purchase by calling 602-277-0130. Visit www.latinopm.com/digital for a free digital subscription. Latino Perspectives Magazine is published 12 times a year and is selectively distributed throughout Arizona. The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted by Latino Perspectives Media, LLC, all rights reserved, and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.
By Cecilia Rosales, Ph.D.
It’s that time of year when pumpkins, vanilla, cinnamon and spice are
ubiquitous. We can sense and taste them in scrumptious baked goods, espresso drinks, desserts and even air fresheners! For many of us, this sensory experience is evocative of warm memories of times past, of previous holiday seasons. Since I have zero baking abilities, but would very much like to share with my kids the wonders of developing a multisensory memory, and in an attempt to recall happy childhood moments with loved ones who have passed away, I sometimes resort to simmering water with vanilla beans, cinnamon sticks and spice; it infuses the house with the scent of the season and permeates my emotional memory every time. A nifty aerosol and calorie-free trick. Family and community make the holiday season special. While many of us have plenty to be thankful for, many others are in need of a helping hand. November is National Family Caregivers Month and is intended as a time to draw attention to and raise awareness about the challenges faced by family caregivers. As Georgann Yara writes in the Health section, chances are you know someone who cares for a specialneeds or sick relative; now is the perfect time to show that caregiver in your life some appreciation. This Veteran’s Day, we also honor and thank all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. For the third consecutive year, Latino Perspectives Magazine and the Raul H. Castro Institute will host a luncheon to salute veterans and first responders in our community. This year, we pay special tribute to the Korean War veteran Marines of Tucson’s E Company for their historical preservation efforts. Thanks to Ruben Moreno, we all can learn a lot from the oral histories he has compiled and self-published with support from his fellow veterans. I recently had the opportunity to meet with Eddie Lovio, Marty F. Ramirez, and Gilbert Romero, members of the famed E Company, 13th Infantry Battalion Marine Reserves. Their memories of Korea are vivid, and their stories of struggles and camaraderie were as moving as their adventures en route to Camp Pendleton were amusing. They told me about friends and neighbors who, back in the ‘50s, lied about their age in order to sign up for the Marine Reserves; of fellow marines who recently died, others who died long ago, and others who can’t remember much nowadays. We devote our cover story to E Company. Charles Sanderson presents a portrait of these brave men and reminds us of the Tucson link to the Korean War. In Those Who Serve, we honor the life of 22-year-old Army Private First Class Barbara Vieyra, from Mesa, who was killed in action in late September while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. We thank and salute all those who serve.
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¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
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¡! ¿ Sera posible?
Just looking at the menu, honey month; send at least five virtual gifts, and instant-message with members for at least 60 minutes through the so-called “affair” service. Sounds expensive. The site charges for sending messages, virtual gifts and to IM. If you’re not cheating after all this, you probably need serious help.
Life is short, have an affair. Or
cash out by recruiting people to do so. Seriously. We all know sex sells. What you may not know is a website exists dedicated to making dinero by connecting “attached” people to other married or committed folk looking to stray and have an affair. Believe it or not. Oh, and the site is also looking for affiliates (shall we say cheating reps?) to sign up wannabe cheaters. The commission isn’t bad; last we checked it was $200.00 per membership, plus a $25 bonus for every woman you sign up. They boast an average monthly payout of $3,500. Are you envisioning yourself like a pimp already? Canada-based www.ashleymadison. com bills itself alternately as the world’s premier married dating service and the world’s premier discreet dating service (same difference?), with over 7,300,000 anonymous members (it’s not a typo: seven million three-hundred-thousand horny people). Not bad for a dating site launched in 2002. If you think the company’s mantra, “life is short, have an affair,” is pushing the envelope, check out their 100-percent Affair Guarantee. This must be a good option for the hopelessly desperate. According to the website, if after three months of purchasing the Affair Guarantee membership (for just $249) you have not had an affair, you are eligible for a full refund. The money-back guarantee only applies if participants: set up a profile on the website with a photo (which the site has to approve); send or reply to at least 18 site members every
Your thoughts? Tell us what you think. Send your thoughts to editor@latinopm.com 8
Latino Perspectives Magazine
¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives welcomes feedback from readers regarding published stories or topics of interest. Please include your name and phone number. Mail letters to Editor, Latino Perspectives, 3877 N. 7th St., Ste. 200, Phoenix, AZ 85014. Or, e-mail letters to editor@latinopm.com.
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That, or a makeover, marital counseling or antidepressants for sure. Or perhaps you’ll feel so terrible about yourself, or your ego will be so bruised that you’ll want to go back to your honey and forget you ever wanted to stray to begin with – and never mind the time and money you invested in trying to find someone to cheat with, all to no avail. Híjole, qué feo, Mateo. One thing for sure, we dare to assume, is if your partner were to find out you paid for a membership to hook up with a stranger, s/he’ll be less likely to forgive the “indiscretion” as the act itself would have been fully premeditated. There would be no extenuating circumstances (“I didn’t know what I was doing … one thing led to another”), just plain malicious intent. For its part, AshleyMadison (who is “she” anyway?) thinks it’s doing married or “attached” people a favor by providing the cheaters database service. “Our role is to keep them from taking unnecessary risks while they explore the feelings that got them to our website to begin with.” And no, they don’t see anything wrong with it. “Providing a service like ours does not make someone more likely to stray anymore than increasing the availability of glassware contributes to alcoholism.” Nice analogy. If you’re curious and plan to check out the website from a shared computer at home or at work, you may want to tell your partner or coworkers about it. The last thing you want is to be accused of cheating for just looking at the menu.
Editorial mission statement Latino Perspectives creates community, cultivates cultural pride and provokes, challenges and connects Latinos who are defining, pursuing, and achieving the American Latino Dream.
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Conversation starters from the world around us
12 LP Journal
Edward James Olmos still has attitude; ethnic studies ban inspires documentary
15
Lola
Lola wonders how Colonel Sanders would feel about KFC’s latest PR
19 Rincón del arte
Marco Santiago, film writer-director and man with the mirror
i say... I don’t know that all of you are Latino. Some of you look a little more Asian to me. —Nevada GOP Senate nominee Sharron Angle, speaking to members of a Las Vegas high school’s Hispanic Student Union
To imply that they – the people in this country who are Jewish – are an oppressed minority. Yeah. Photo courtesy of MIM
—Now former CNN anchor Rick Sanchez on Pete Dominick’s satellite radio show
14
I mean, look, Bill, I’m not a bigot, but ... — Now former NPR correspondent Juan Williams to Bill O’Reilly about his trepidation when he sees people in “Muslim garb” on a plane
page
American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music at the Musical Instrument Museum
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¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
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¡!
LP journal
Four years ago, Congress ordered a “virtual” fence with not-so-virtual money. Spent so far: $795 million for 53 AZ-Mexico border miles, likely down the virtual toilet.
Olmos keeps his ¡Y qué! ‘tude in Latino-bashing era Most older Chicanos recall first seeing the actor Edward James Olmos in 1981 as El Pachuco in the film Zoot Suit. El Pachuco was the epitome of the angry, macho Hispanic man who acts as the narrator and conscience of the story. Zoot Suit was a dramatic account of the Sleepy Lagoon case in Los Angeles, in which a handful of young Mexican Americans are falsely convicted of murder during the time of the 1942 “zoot suit” riots, when L.A. police and military servicemen ganged up on the brown-skinned zoot suiters, many of them our padres and tíos. Younger millennial Latinos know Olmos as Admiral William Adama in the cable series Battlestar Galactica, the Latino military authority figure that leads the remnants of the human race fleeing into space after billions of humans are killed by the Cylons, manmade robots that turn on their masters. In the three decades between the two roles, the East 12
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¡ November 2010!
L.A. born, 63-year-old actor has starred in film and TV roles that have earned him numerous awards and loads of accolades. Olmos, who was in Phoenix recently to deliver a Flinn Foundation Centennial Lecture at ASU, says he would rather be known as a passionate activist and advocate for Latino culture than as an actor. The title of his speech – appropriately enough – was “We’re All in the Same Gang.” In an interview with LP Journal, Olmos expressed his in-your-face observations on topics that are hot debates among Latinos in the U.S., but especially here in Arizona. On S.B. 1070: “That law is bullshit. If I have to show my citizenship papers, then everybody has to show their citizenship papers.” On Arizona’s law banning ethnic studies in Tucson schools: “About 97-98 percent of what is taught to our Latino children is European-based history. No wonder they are suffering from high dropout [rates].” On the stereotype of all Latinos as recent immigrants: www.latinopm.com
“There is only one race, and that is the human race. My ancestors have been here for 40,000 years. When they tell me, ‘Go back from where you came from,’ I tell them, ‘I’m from right here. You are the boat people, coming over [on] the Santa Maria.’” On how Arizona Latinos should respond to anti-Latino legislation by state lawmakers: “You are at the center point. People are boycotting your state because of them. But we all need to make the stand against those S.B. 1070 attitudes right here.” ¡Órale!
Line of duty doesn’t mean lie on duty Elvira Fernandez has stood beside civil rights leader César Chávez during nonviolent rallies for farm workers in West Valley communities. Most of her 60 years have been dedicated to helping her fellow Latinos fight for their rights and against abuses by employers, government and police. Yet Fernandez says she has never regretted anything more in her life than calling 911 on
October 5. She said she called the cops to calm down her son Daniel Frank Rodriguez, 29, after he got angry and started throwing things against the walls of the trailer they lived in on Phoenix’s south side. “I called them to help my son, but they killed him,” she recalls. “It was the worst decision I’ve ever made. Never in my life did I think I would ever be in this situation, where I needed the community to help me get justice.” Court records and police reports show that officers Richard Chrisman and Sergio Virgillo from the South Mountain police precinct entered the trailer where Rodriguez was. When he asked for a warrant, Virgillo told police investigators that Chrisman pulled his service revolver, pressed it to Rodriguez’s head, and stated, “I don’t need a warrant, motherf*****.” After the officers struggled with Rodriguez in the trailer, Chrisman pulled his gun and shot the barking family dog. According to Virgillo, the officers Tasered and pepper-
LP journal sprayed the young man to subdue him. When Rodriguez tried to get on his bicycle to leave, that’s when Chrisman shot him multiple times, killing him. The death occurred within a matter of minutes. No weapon was found on the dead man. Virgillo reported to superiors that neither Rodriguez nor the dog posed a threat before they were killed. Phoenix police officer Richard Chrisman was arrested that night on an aggravated assault charge after Virgillo’s statements. Days later, Chrisman was indicted by a Maricopa County grand jury on charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault and cruelty to an animal for his actions against Fernandez’s son. It was the first time in memory that a Phoenix policeman has been charged with murder for shooting someone during an encounter. And it comes at a time when the South Phoenix community – comprised mostly of Latinos and African Americans – is on edge and negotiating with the Phoenix police for safeguards against real or perceived police brutality after Michael Johnson, a Phoenix city councilmember, was allegedly thrown to the ground by a Phoenix police officer earlier this year. Aggravating the situation is the fact that Chrisman was previously given a one-day suspension for planting a crack pipe on an AfricanAmerican suspect in South Phoenix. This incident was captured on videotape. He has also been accused of brutality in another incident. The murder indictment against a Phoenix police officer in itself is unprecedented. But
the Latinos who protested day and night outside the Phoenix Police Department building shouting, “We want justice!” still may not get the conviction they seek against Chrisman. Chrisman, bailed out after his arrest, is being defended through the internal-affairs process by the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, the primary labor union for rank-and-file Phoenix police. Virgillo is not a member of the association. High-profile lawyers have already moved in on opposite sides of this court case. Chrisman has retained Craig Mehrens, an attorney who successfully defended a Chandler cop against murder charges for shooting a woman in a car. He is already trying to destroy Virgillo’s credibility as a witness by publicly calling him a liar and his testimony a “fairy tale” on CNN. As if in a Law & Order episode, local TV station KPHO has reported on the criminal past of Virgillo’s wife. Conspiracy theorists don’t see why this would be relevant and hint that the defense is behind the coverage in order to tarnish Virgillo’s testimony. According to KPHO, Maria Virgillo was convicted of illegal control of an enterprise and sentenced to three years probation in 2008. She allegedly provided information about undercover police practices to her brother, a member of a drug trafficking organization. According to the report, Officer Virgillo was purportedly not aware of his wife’s involvement in the drug trafficking organization. Making matters worse, the “conservative non-partisan” national watchdog group Judicial Watch is now accusing
Vice Mayor Mike Nowakowski and Councilman Johnson of tampering with the witness. The men had allegedly contacted Officer Virgillo to tell him he was “doing the right thing.” Nowakowski’s response to a Fox News reporter was that if praising a police officer for his integrity was tampering, then he’s tampering.
Educators file suit against ethnic studies ban “¡La lucha sigue!” The struggle continues. This is one of the truths students in the Tucson Unified School District enrolled in Mexican-American Studies are discovering as the program’s advocates and political enemies get entangled in the latest culturally rooted debate in Arizona. Late last month, the program’s director and 11 teachers filed a legal challenge against H.B. 2281, which Gov. Brewer signed into law in May. The law specifically prohibits courses either designed primarily for pupils of a particular ethnic group or advocate ethnic solidarity over the treatment of pupils as individuals. The legal challenge claims the law is aimed at Hispanics and would violate the plaintiffs’ rights of equal protection, free speech and due process. Defendants are Tom Horne and the State Board of Education. The battle over the Republicanconceived law could get complicated in the courts. Attorney Richard Martinez, who represents the plaintiffs, said he intends to stop the law from being implemented. Martinez told LP Journal that Horne’s public statements against Mexican-American www.latinopm.com
¡!
students learning about their culture and history form a good basis for bias. And the law is specific about banning messages advocating for the overthrow of the U.S. government and promoting ethnic solidarity.“There’s no basis for this law,” says Martinez. On topic, a documentary about the ethnic studies ban is currently in postproduction. Called Precious Knowledge, the film has received funding from PBS and other foundations, but is about $20,000 short of the budget required to finish it. Tucson-based Dos Vatos Productions, founded by Ari Luis Palos and Eren Isabel McGinnis, is behind the film and has released a trailer that portrays the emotional debate. You can check out the trailer at www.indiegogo.com/ precious-knowledge.
Loss of a Latino leader Democratic state Sen. Jorge Luis Garcia of Tucson died of heart failure on October 15 at age 57. Garcia was finishing his last term in the Senate and was a candidate for the Corporation Commission at the time of his death. He had previously served in the House for four years. If Garcia still wins in the election, it will be treated as a vacancy in office; the governor will be required to appoint someone of the same political party to fill the position. State lawmaker David Lujan, a minority leader in the House, says Garcia’s death saddened many at the state Capitol. “Jorge was a true public servant who was committed to fighting for social justice,” Lujan told LP Journal. Sen. Garcia will be missed.
¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
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¡!
vibe
No dogs or Mexicans allowed
W.W. Norton publishes first Latino anthology
On November 11, 1944, 25-year-old
of Latino Literature has made its timely debut. Clocking in at 2,700 pages, 1.4 million words and 2,340 footnotes, don’t expect to pick it up with one hand. You can thank the editors’ ambitious undertaking, which chronicles the rich history of Latino writing in America by including 201 authors from as far back as 1539 to present day. Everything from song lyrics to essays, novels, folklore and comic strips of Chicano, Cuban, Puerto Rican and Dominican writers figure into this treasure trove of U.S. Latino literature. In an age of ethnic studies bans, the book reminds us that Latino voices have been an integral part of America for many generations past – and many to come. For more information, visit www.wwnorton.com.
At long last, The Norton Anthology
Felix Longoria left behind a wife and daughter in his hometown of Three Rivers, Texas, to ship out with the 27th Infantry Regiment. Seven months later, he’d be killed by a Japanese sniper in the Battle of Luzon during World War II. When Pvt. Longoria’s remains were finally sent home five years later, they arrived when “No dogs or Mexicans allowed” signs were still a fixture in business windows across the southwestern states. Three Rivers’ only funeral home director refused to allow the decorated war hero to lie in state – he was Mexican and “the whites would not like it.” Pvt. Longoria would eventually be the first Mexican American to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. The road to his deserved burial, however, was a long and arduous one that would bear the ascent of Mexican-American civil rights advocate Hector P. Garcia and the American G.I. Forum. The Longoria Affair, part of the PBS Emmy Award-winning INDEPENDENT LENS film series, revisits this tragic period of American history. Directed by John Valadez, the film will premier Tuesday, November 9, hosted by America Ferrera. Visit www.pbs.org to check the local broadcast schedule.
American Sabor makes Valley debut at MIM A new exhibit at the Musical Instrument Museum
Promotional photograph of the Tito Rodriguez Orchestra. Rodriguez is front and center, holding maracas.
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Latino Perspectives Magazine
¡ November 2010!
www.latinopm.com
in Phoenix will bring to life a rich and often overlooked area of American pop música: the Latino music that influenced it. Starting November 20, American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music will showcase everything from the mambo, rhumba, and cha-cha-cha dance crazes of the 1950s to East L.A. punk rock from the 1970s; from conjunto and Tex-Mex to contemporary styles like reggaeton and banda rap. Instruments, costumes, and other artifacts from musical icons such as Carlos Santana, Celia Cruz, Los Lobos, Linda Ronstadt, Tito Puente, Flaco Jiménez, the Fania All-Stars and many others will trace the trajectory of Latino music across the American landscape and into the hearts of millions. Visit www.themim.org for more information.
photo of felix longoria Courtesy of the Hector P. Garcia Archives at Texas A&M University
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vibe
Cowboys or charros: which came first?
¡!
Lola's Voicemail: Gluteus Ad Maximus?
image courtesy of LAA
Mr. Benito? Hello.
When it comes to the U.S. American
cowboy, the story of its origins begins with the Latino tradition, born out of the hacienda system of medieval Spain, evolved in the Southwest into the vaquero of northern Mexico and the charro of the Jalisco and Michoacán regions. Coinciding with the Cowboy Artists of America event at the Phoenix Art Museum is the Latino Artists of America’s (LAA) Mexican Cowboys y Charros exhibit, which takes a Latino twist on this often misunderstood historical figure. Set to display at the Arizona Latin@ Arts and Cultural Center’s (ALAC) Galería 147 art space November 5 through December 18, this exhibit will feature renditions of Mexico’s original cowboys: the charros. Their ornately decorated short jackets, pointy-topped sombreros, spurs and guns will be represented in a variety of media. Galería 147 will showcase the works of the LAA’s 10-plus roster. LAA presidente José Andrés Girón has handpicked and carefully vetted each of these Latino artists during his travels throughout California, New Mexico, Texas and Arizona. Galería 147 is located at 140 E. Adams in downtown Phoenix. Admission to the exhibit is free, although donations are encouraged. The exhibit is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more información, call 602-254-9817 or visit www.alacaz.org or www.latinoartistsofamerica.org.
I guess you and your colleagues assume that when men look at a woman’s glutes, they start to salivate. And I’m also guessing you think that Colonel Sanders looks great stamped on the derrieres of female college students. Personally, I find the concept of an image of the old white-haired man with glasses and a goatee on the behinds of young women a bit creepy, but perhaps this is your idea of brand placement. Considering that KFC is celebrating the 120th anniversary of the colonel’s birth, I find the whole thing even more problematic as I can’t help but picture the centenarian’s reaction to the media blitz if he were alive. I understand KFC paid college ambassadors $500 to play temptresses and distribute coupons while donning branded white t-shirts and red sweatpants promoting the most recent menu item, the Double Down bun-less sandwich, which features “two thick and juicy boneless white meat chicken filets (Original Recipe® or Grilled), two pieces of bacon, two melted slices of Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheese” and, of course, the “Colonel’s Sauce.” How tasteful. Your marketing and PR team must be having a lot of fun, and must be very happy with the flow of your creative juices, as evidenced by the sale of over 100 million sandwiches and the selfcongratulatory media release posted on www.kfc.com. “Gluteus Ad Maximus: KFC Places Double Down Ads on the Backsides of Sweatpants Worn By College Co-eds. Kentucky-Fried Chicken Enlists Female Undergrads as ‘Human
Billboards’ to Tempt Fellow Students with Advertising for KFC’s First-Ever Bun-less Sandwich.” I’ll give you credit for not disguising the antics. While I object to your method, at least I appreciate that the temptresses/ ambassadors are paid for their “work” as opposed to those who dish out good money for apparel displaying messages across their buttocks. As an aside, I have an issue with women who buy a certain couture brand and walk around with the word “juicy” on their butts. But hey, it’s a free country, and we can all do with our butts as we please, right? Back to the bun-less Double Down ad campaign. My viejo thinks I’m overreacting and making a big deal out of nothing. Before you agree with him, tell me: Would you rent your crotch to advertise, say, turkey wieners? Or how about yolkless eggs? I wonder what the Colonel would do?
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¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
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¡!
Pocho keen
vibe
image courtesy of smoca
Like peachy keen, pero different
Waiting for el cucuy “You better come inside or else el
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) are in the midst of registering members of the community for the spring session of their Arts Engagement programs. The visual arts series begins in February and is offered to those with early to mid-stage Alzheimer’s disease (and other forms of dementia) and their care partners. The program taps into the parts of the brain said to be most affected by Alzheimer’s disease, from long-term memory to the emotions and senses. Caregivers also benefit from the program and learn something new in the process. Participants meet every other week for an interactive tour at the venue of their choosing over a three-month period. The tours are followed by an ingallery discussion or creative hands-on activities. A two-year study of the effects of the program, sponsored by the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, indicates that participants showed more connectivity, less depression and an overall higher quality of life as a result of the experience The program is scheduled to begin February 1, 2011. Pre-registration is required and enrollment is limited, so act on this opportunity soon. A $100 fee for all six tours covers two people. Limited scholarships also available. Contact SMoCA at 480-874-4642 or Phoenix Art Museum at 602-307-2032 for more information.
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Do you have something pocho, peachy or keen to say? Send it to pochokeen@latinopm.com.
The Phoenix Art Museum and
cucuy is gonna get you!” How many of us can remember that frightful, however effective warning and running inside as fast as we could? Never mind that you had no idea what “el cucuy” looked like. Your main mission in life was to never find out. You just knew he was indescribable; surely a gruesome old man who ate children that misbehaved or wouldn’t go to sleep. The Latin-American version of the bogeyman was everywhere, at least in our collective imagination. Was el cucuy not scary enough for you? How about la llorona, who would snatch you away if you didn’t stop playing by the local canal? You know, the woman relegated to searching waterways for her own children, whom she drowned when spurned by her lover, or so one version of the story goes. Of course, she never finds them, which is why she’s after you in her flowing white dress, hovering inches above the ground. Still outside playing? And you’re dipping your toes in the water? Ay, ¡qué bárbaro! OK, how about la lechuza? This evil owl would transform itself into an ugly old witch and do dastardly things to children. Come on, how many of us have relatives who swear that
Contact Pocho Keen
Fight Alzheimer’s with art
they, or someone they know, saw one of these ghoulish creatures? I know I do. I even have my own claim, sort of. I remember a bunch of us kids, late one summer night, standing around a large tree in our neighborhood, when someone yelled, “¡La lechuza, la lechuza!” We heard a flapping noise and saw some big bird that I can only imagine was an owl, but I can’t confirm I saw it turn into a witch. A good thing, because as it was, I had frozen in my tracks. My brother had to grab my arm just to get me moving. If none of these spooky legends scared you back in the day, then you can’t possibly be Latino. Which is why I can only presume most of us never understood why in scary movies, when someone or something outside is making a noise, white people have to go see what it is. What’s up with that?? We Latinos would lock all the doors, turn off the lights and say a bunch of Hail Marys until we cried ourselves to sleep! Don’t get me wrong. It’s not that we’re not tough – you know how macho we are. Maybe we just have these scary characters deeply ingrained in our psyche, our parents’ way of keeping us from playing outside after dark. Today, as I survey our bizarre and frightening political landscape, I wonder if we would have been better served to not be afraid of playing outside with our friends, and to realize there is strength in numbers. We might have learned early on to harness that power to ensure that the real cucuys and lechuzas never, ever harm us.
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¡!
Making the mirror
Marco Santiago, film writer-director Ever since he was a kid in the Bronx, Marco Santiago has wanted to make movies. Along the way, he took a detour and pursued education – a lot of it, and only some of it related to filmmaking. So far he’s garnered 500 college credits since 1983. Now a Phoenix resident, Santiago is back to his passion for writing and directing films, but this time with life experience under his belt.
Highlights: Two-time fellow of the NALIP Photo courtesy of suncast entertainment
Producers Academy: in 2006 as a producing fellow and in 2007 as a directing fellow. Two-time finalist for the Sundance Writers Lab: in 2007 for my 86 feature-film project and in 2008 for my adaptation of the satirical novel How to Cope with Suburban Stress by David Galef.
First film: A film school project titled El Tráfico, a story about an 8-year-old boy that gets caught up in the world of human smuggling along the Mexican border. The short was shot on 16mm film and went on to win a ton of awards at the school film festival. It basically swept the awards in 2004. I was totally shocked and humbled!
What do you hope to accomplish with your work? To make films that are intellectually interesting and to explore culturally significant themes that act like mirrors held up in front of the viewer’s face. They should be able to reflect on themselves based on what they see in my films.
Alejandro González Iñárritu, Alfonso Cuarón and Oliver Stone. In my book, these guys are great artists and they are fearless. Actors – Philip Seymour Hoffman – what an incredibly versatile character actor. I’d also love to work with Ryan Gosling and Matt Damon. They have such good taste. And of course Jack Nicholson! As for female actors, I’d love to work with Vera Farmiga, another actor with great taste and sensibilities. And of course, I would love to be challenged by Meryl Streep.
What are you working on now? I’m
Do you prefer writing, directing or producing? Why? I consider myself a writer-
currently in post production on my last short film, Xtraction, an action thriller set in Mexico about the world of organ trafficking. I’m also hard at work on the development of my first feature film, 86. My hopes are to go into preproduction on this project soon.
director, and I also enjoy the production process, but my first love is writing. I feel that directing is made so much easier if the writing is based on solidly drawn characters that actors want to work with and that are anchored by a solid thematic foundation.
Favorite filmmakers: Directors and influencers – Paul Thomas Anderson, Martin Scorsese,
Film credits: El Tráfico (2004); Once Upon a Time in the Desert (2005); Diablita (2007); Fallen Hero (2010); The Bear, cinematographer (2004). www.latinopm.com
¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
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Cancer does not play by the rules. Cancer has no ethics. It doesn’t see the big picture. Or care about the plan. But it’s my goal to make sure that cancer patients know there is more hope than ever before.
Peter S. Fine - Cancer Patient President/CEO, Banner Health
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Catherine Anaya
¡!
Anaya says
Make your blessing count By Catherine Anaya
This month, as we give thanks for
In the Circle, Tom Browning, 2010. Oil on canvas, 24” x 18”. Courtesy of the artist.
CAA on view at Phoenix Art Museum Cowboy art collectors will be
riding high this fall as the Cowboy Artists of America (CAA) Exhibition and Sale returns to the Phoenix Art Museum. Through November 21, this highly anticipated show will feature sculptures, paintings and drawings that pay homage to the rich and colorful history of the American West. This year, the CAA celebrates its 45th year of preserving the memory and culture of the Old West with the addition of two members to the CAA roster: painter Tim Browning and sculptor Paul Moore. Their works, which include bronze and stone sculptures, oil paintings, and water-soluble paintings and drawings, will be featured among the exhibit’s 130-plus never-beforeseen works of art. And don’t think it’s all about the Old West, because much of the CAA repertoire focuses on depicting the contemporary Western lifestyle, drawing on many of the CAA members’ own experiences on the ranch or reservation for inspiration. Access to the exhibit is included in Phoenix Art Museum’s general admission: $10 for adults; $4 for children ages 6-17. More info at www.phxart.org.
life’s blessings, let’s not forget the blessing of being able to vote. And the best way to give thanks for that is to cast your ballot. This November, many Arizonans are hoping to see one of the biggest turnouts of Latino voters ever. We’ve recently witnessed a major push to get more Latinos not only registered to vote, but to also get to the polls and make that vote matter. Much of the effort is fueled by heated emotion stemming from the passage of Senate Bill 1070, Arizona’s new immigration enforcement law, parts of which went into effect this past July. Yet, despite the reported disenchantment over issues like immigration, education, the economy and unemployment, a recent Pew Hispanic Center study shows Hispanic registered voters appear to be less motivated than other voters to go to the polls. One-third of all Latino registered voters say they’ve given this year’s election “quite a lot” of thought while 50 percent of all registered voters say the same. “Too, I think that for every one Latino that is motivated to vote due to the S.B. 1070 aftermath, there is also one Latino voter that is frustrated and feels helpless,” says Christina Martinez-Romero, public affairs consultant. “The rhetoric has fatigued our community.” The Pew study is certainly a dramatic shift from the estimated 80percent Latino voter turnout we saw at the polls in 2008.
“In 2008 we had a hot Democratic ticket. This year, we don’t,” MartinezRomero adds. “I believe Latinos care more about education, employment and health care. We are not going to fix this lackadaisical problem in one election. There needs to be a long-term strategy. We have to give Latinos a reason to vote. They have to take ownership.” Still, that same Pew study also found that in a year when support for Democratic candidates has eroded, support for the party among Latinos appears as strong as ever. Twothirds of Latino registered voters say they plan to support the Democratic candidate in their local congressional district, while just 22 percent support the Republican candidate. ONE Arizona, an organization made up of 10 nonprofit groups throughout the state, has led an intense voter outreach campaign over the last few months, hoping to strengthen Latino political muscle in this month’s election and beyond. And if the goal is to make a change beyond this election, then the key may be to empower each other. Encourage our Latino youth to stay in school and fight for their future and make sure our friends and loved ones who can vote, do vote. “Remind Latinos, ‘tu voto es tu voz,’ period,” says Martinez-Romero. “We are fortunate to live in a democratic society. If we don’t like something, we need to speak up – challenge the status quo.” Simply put, we need to make our blessing count – and vote! www.latinopm.com
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MICHAEL FEINSTEIN The Sinatra Project Saturday, November 13, 8 p.m. Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix Backed by a swing band, Michael Feinstein performs timeless romantic songs from his Grammynominated album, The Sinatra Project, a classy tribute to the one-of-a-kind style of ‘The Chairman of the Board’ himself.
CALL: 480.994.ARTS (2787) Ext. 2 CLICK: ScottsdalePerformingArts.org VISIT: 7380 E. Second St. Scottsdale www.latinopm.com
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23
With November comes a flood of compassion for the troops who have gone into harm’s way for our country. But some soldiers get lost in the storyline we share every Veterans Day, like the Korean War veterans. With this in mind, we would like to honor those who have helped to preserve the account of The Forgotten War. When few had told the stories, Korean War veterans such as Ruben Moreno and Rudy Lucero took it upon themselves to collect the history. Tom Kleespie’s documentary, Unforgettable: The Korean War, shares those stories with an entire nation. On November 18, Latino Perspectives, the Raul Castro Institute and SRP will honor these efforts at the third annual Honoring Those Who Serve luncheon (See full-page announcement at end of this feature).
Not so
They went from tucson’s warm
Korea. Memories and stories welled up, and sometimes so did tears. Moreno recalls the conversation that incited him. “When the Descendientes del Presidio de Tucson (Descendants of the Tucson Garrison) was organized, Patricia Preciado Martin suggested that it would be valuable if the membership got involved in Hispanic oral histories,” says Moreno. “A committee, headed by Annie Lopez, was formed with that in mind. I remarked to Rudy Lucero that I would like to have someone write the histories of members of “E” Company…. The next thing I knew, Rudy presented me with a tape recorder and instructions for conducting interviews. With an incentive like that, it was impossible to back out.” Prodded by his wife, a docent at the Arizona Historical Society Museum, and genealogist Dr. William C. Kleese, Moreno
desert heat to a biting cold that froze blood, stranded between bone-jarring mortar shells and the heartbreaking loss of friends and limbs. They changed from high school boys to U.S. Marines before their 20th birthdays. The Korean War took their youth and turned them into men, for better or for worse. Decades after the experience, many still had not told anyone what happened to them on the Korean peninsula in the early 1950s. Some of the men have disappeared over time, moved away or passed on. But, in 1994, one of the veterans started collecting their stories. Ruben Moreno began recording interviews with the other surviving members of Tucson’s “Easy” Company, 13th Infantry Battalion Marine Reserves. Moreno listened with the ear of a fellow soldier who had seen the bullets, felt the cold and shared the experience of
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easy
Tucson’s 13th Infantry Battalion Marine Reserves go from boys to men
by Charles Sanderson
self-published the stories as a booklet, so all could read about Tucson’s contributions to the aptly named Forgotten War in Korea.
So, who are these soldiers? The story Moreno has documented begins in 1948. The 20-year-old Ruben Moreno had served in the Navy Reserves for a short stint. Returning home, he heard that several buddies were joining a local Marine Reserves that had been started the year before by a few World War II veterans. Word was going around Tucson High as well. Somebody mentioned the military would give out new shirts and a sharp new pair of shoes to those who signed up. Other kids said there were only two meetings a month and they would be paid $2.50 for each they attended. Closer to the truth was that everyone in the barrios was joining because so many of their friends were. Their older brothers had
served during World War II and came home heroes. As if it were the “in” thing to do, 16 and 17-year-old boys were signing up for the Marine Corps Reserve. When school ended, the first batch of recruits went to Camp Pendleton, 38 miles north of downtown San Diego. It was no boot camp; they only learned the basics and had fun. Eddie “Mickey” Rios remembers, “They show you how to fire a rifle for a day maybe. We shot an M1 [Garand] and BAR [Browning automatic rifle], threw a couple grenades sometimes.” The boys learned a little self-discipline and practiced marching drills. “We played at bein’ soldiers, I guess,” recalls Ruben Moreno. “It was a bunch of friends. We all went in a group, so … we always had somebody to team up with. Of course I had some relatives out there, too, so that helped.” A world away from these fledgling soldiers, Korea was changing. Since 1910, the country had been under a tight Japanese colonial rule that grew bloodier into the 1930s as Koreans challenged their oppressors. Korea finally found success when China backed their efforts in 1941, as Korea declared war on Japan two days after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In September 1945, a month after Japan surrendered to allied forces in World War II, U.S. troops landed in the southern part of Korea. The country was rudderless without a government. Quickly an agreement was reached between the United States and the U.S.S.R. to split Korea in half along the 38th parallel. Each country would occupy their respective portion, with the goal of establishing a government that could eventually stand on its own. Fate took a different path.
As provisional governments were set up in the north and the south, relations between the U.S.A. and the U.S.S.R. chilled into what would be called the Cold War. As elections were scheduled, it was obvious that the two superpowers wanted different leaders and a very different government. As South Korea elected its first president, Syngman Rhee, U.S. troops had begun leaving per a United Nations mandate. South Korea’s new Republic of Korea government formally took power on August 15, 1948. On September 9, the Democratic People’s Republic took control of the north, with Kim-Il-sung as its first prime minister. Each government claimed sovereignty over the other half of Korea. A collision was inevitable. In 1949, the Tucson boys went to a second summer camp as more boys were joining. They were oblivious to world events that would soon come crashing into their own lives. On June 25, 1950, one year after the final U.S. troop withdrawal, North Korea made a move. At 4 a.m. on a Sunday, bullets began cutting through an early morning rain as North Korea’s Democratic People’s Republic Army attacked the Republic of Korea (South Korea). It took them only four days to overrun the south. A month after the invasion, the U.S. military issued orders to send the 1st Marine Division to war and sail for the Far East between the 10th and 15th of August and be ready to deploy by September 15. It was a massive task, with most military equipment either mothballed or out of production. The division had to prepare and launch 15,400 ground troops along with the additional equipment required. Nineteen ships of all
classes were pulled together for the trip and to serve in the region. Much of their equipment was from the previous war. Nobody expected another war so soon after WWII. Nobody wanted to even think about a war. Still, it was happening. On July 31, Tucson’s Easy Company became the first Arizona troops called to active duty. The boys were offered deferment if they were still in high school or had started college. Not one accepted. The young soldiers boarded a train at the Southern Pacific Station, bound for Camp Pendleton. Nearly 80 percent of them were MexicanAmerican. Their families filled the station to say goodbyes and it was front-page news in Tucson’s Arizona Daily Star. The families fell quiet as the train rolled out of the station. Harold Don recalls what many thought – or hoped – at the time. “We’re just reserves. They won’t need us.” When the young soldiers departed from Tucson, they were leaving a close-knit world, families who were the very roots of Tucson’s rich culture, and speeding to an unknown future.
On-the-job training Less than a month passed between the young soldiers’ arrival at Camp Pendleton and their departure for Korea. The U.S. military was wasting no time. Easy Company was called into formation. Tucson’s Gilbert “Niggie” Romero was one of the boys who had attended the camps in the summer of 1948 and 1949. He remembers, “In ’50, when we got there, they stood us out and said, ‘Whoever had two summer camps, take a step forward.’ We said, ‘Oh man! We’re gonna train! We’re goin’ to boot camp.’ Next thing, we were in the mobile going overseas.”
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¡ November 2010! Latino Perspectives Magazine 25
In Korea, left to right: Eugene Suarez, Tom Price, Jimmy Ward, Valdemar Leon and Albert Felix
Easy Company was quickly broken up and its soldiers scattered throughout the 1st Marine Division to augment its forces, mostly because so many in the group were brothers and cousins. Several soldiers were held back for boot camp until their next birthday, because their mothers had sent letters after hearing the Marines would not send underage soldiers into battle. The rest of the soldiers were loaded onto the U.S.S. Noble, U.S.S. Jackson and several other ships headed for Kobe, Japan. With no boot camp to ready the new recruits, many practiced zeroing in their rifles on flying fish and learned how to take apart their guns as the ships sped toward Japan. On September 1, 1950, the first ships arrived – just in time to batten down for Typhoon Jane. “There were a lot of warehouses around where we were docked,” Niggie recalls. “We couldn’t go up on deck. We were almost to the bottom of the ship. When we got up there, all the warehouses were gone. All that was there was just the foundation.” The docks were flooded. Several ships broke their moorings to float dangerously through the harbor and others were damaged. Deployment day was getting closer. The next day a tropical depression had turned into Typhoon Kezia. Troops bound for the beaches of Inchon would surely be tossed about in the tempest. Then, luck prevailed. The storm curved north and away from Inchon; the U.S. troops moved forward through the tail of Kezia toward Inchon’s beachhead. Seasickness was rampant. The ships rode through waves that crested well over 26
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25 feet. As one ship topped a wave, it could look straight down at the next ship coming up the trough. Harold Don recalls it clearly. “That was something. You’d get these great, big swells,” he says. “It’s like hills ... you’re on top of one hill. You can see other ships – some going halfway down, some way at the bottom, some at the top like you are. You start going down like going down into a big ol’ pit … I’d never experienced anything like that before. It was really awesome.” The troops finally landed. For some of the young Easy Company Marine Reserves of Tucson, it was the first time they had ever fired their guns. They had gone from “playing” at being soldiers to on-the-job training in a dangerous profession.
Esprit de corps This was a new military. Two years earlier, President Truman had desegregated the Armed Forces with Executive Order 9981. But war is the greater equalizer. The threat of death can melt away divisions between two groups, opening doors of acceptance, uniting them in the task of survival. With no time to smooth over the rancor amongst the new racially integrated military, the soldiers fought on. Any remaining distrust of the MexicanAmerican soldiers was dissipated in the cold hills of Korea, replaced by freezing fears of being bayoneted in one’s foxhole. Gilbert “Niggie” Romero remembers how white soldiers’ concerns changed. “Some … wouldn’t communicate with you,” he says, “until they knew that when they got hit real bad, they either gotta sleep with you in the foxholes … They’d start getting
friendly ‘cause then they started thinking, ‘Well, hey, I need them otherwise I’m gonna sleep by myself.’” Ruben Moreno recalls the MexicanAmericans were seen as bold soldiers. “Tell you the truth, most officers preferred to have the Mexicans on their company or unit, because they thought they were very brave,” says Moreno. “I mean, we were scared shitless, too, but we did it anyway ... charging the guns…. Of course, in combat they kinda shied away, because these guys are gonna be where the bullets are!” Gilbert “Niggie” Romero certainly seemed to be everywhere the bullets were. His leg was bloodied by shrapnel in a March 1951 firefight. That was only the beginning. In April, a bullet shattered his chin and ricocheted out through his armpit. He caught a bullet when Chinese troops brought down the helicopter that was airlifting him to a MASH unit. After a shaky landing, the men hand-carried Niggie and another Marine down the mountain to a convoy. He caught yet another bullet when the convoy was ambushed on its way to the field hospital. Medical corpsman Tommy Fisher of Tucson saw Romero and almost didn’t recognize him. He put a devotional scapular into Niggie’s hand and quickly gave him his last rites. It must have been a shock when Fisher, himself wounded a month later, encountered Romero still breathing in a Japanese hospital. Romero had woken up to find the scapular in his hand, without a drop of blood on it. Sixty years and 29 surgeries later, he carries it with him to this day. Though the Tucson boys were strewn across different parts of the 1st Marines, they would still connect on the battlefield, giving a thread of familiarity to an unwelcome landscape. Eddie Lovio remembers “there was a Tucson guy in just about every outfit. You could yell out to a group of marching Marines, ‘There anybody from Tucson?’ and they’d yell back, ‘Yeah!’” Eddie “Mickey” Rios recalls similar moments. “We crisscrossed once in a while when we were over there, and when somebody got either wounded or killed, the word would pass pretty quick....” Eddie pauses. “That was good and not so good, especially when the guys got hit or killed.”
Spirits lifted in the brief moments when the soldiers received mail. The letters would be read aloud to fellow Tucson buddies who hadn’t heard from home, and care packages that families sent were shared as well. One amusing moment came with a Christmas package Niggie got from his mother. Ruben Moreno related the story for Tom Kleese’s Korean War documentary Unforgettable. “We were always on the move, and by the time the mail caught up with us, it was ancient news,” he says. “Niggie Romero, he got some tamales from home, green tamales. Not green corn tamales but green tamales ‘cause the chile con carne tamales had turned green from the moss growing on them. He got them and he was ready to throw them away and Harold Don, the only Chinese we had in the company, said, ‘No, no, no! Don’t throw them away. We can make them good.’” Romero scraped off the green moss, put the tamales in a pan to heat and the men shared the meal. Today Niggie jokes that maybe they were eating penicillin and it saved their lives. Many soldiers avoided bullets, mines, grenades, bayonets and mortars. But almost no one could escape the cold weather. It is the best-known and most enduring story of the Korean War, and haunts the men to this day. Eddie Rios still has to put on extra socks and blankets at night because his body shivers terribly in a chill. Harold Don’s toenails are deformed from frostbite. Ruben Moreno holds out his hands to show fingernails still blackened from the damage. These were the lucky soldiers. Niggie Romero recalls a friend, Earl “Tiny” Collins, who was once well over six feet tall. Frostbite robbed him of a leg and several fingers. In 1998, decades after the war, his other leg was amputated. Eddie “Mickey” Rios remembers holding dying soldiers in the cold. Sometimes the cold was a godsend. “I saw a lot of my buddies … buddies that got hit. I would hold them and couldn’t do a damn thing about it…. I used to hold them as long as I could. Good thing it was freezing, because sometimes it would freeze the bullet wound, it was so damn cold. And that was good for them. It just stopped the blood.”
Coming home As the war became a stalemate, tours of duty ended and, at last, an armistice was reached in July of 1953. The E Company soldiers began returning to the warm desert they had left when they were so young just three years before. It does not take long to learn the legend of how Korean War veterans returned to civilian life with no fanfare, parades or ticker tape. They stepped off the returning boats and drifted back into normal life. Eddie Lovio remembers his quiet arrival. “I think it was a Saturday night. They told me there was a dance at one of the veterans’ organizations. I got dressed up and went to the dance. A guy comes over and says ‘Hey Ed. Where you been? I haven’t seen you in a long time.’” Lovio pauses before sharing his response. “‘Oh, I’ve been away.’ That was it. I went to work the next day.” Though the fanfare was negligible and life seemed to go on as usual, returning soldiers had forever changed. Some came back with injuries or with inescapable memories of watching friends fall in battle. Others felt empowered. Lovio says it simply. “We were all kids when we left - went down as a kid. You came back as a man.” In Tucson, one of the returning wounded of Easy Company got national attention in May of 1951 when he was refused admittance to the VA Hospital. While in Korea, David Arellano’s throat had begun to swell, but he said nothing. After his tour of duty, his throat got worse. He was diagnosed with a serious illness, yet the hospital officials refused to admit him for treatment. Korea was called a police action, not a war. This exempted Arellano from veteran status. In one article of the day, Arellano himself is quoted, saying, “Korean and Chinese Red troops shot at me. Some of my buddies were killed. If that isn’t war, I’d like to know what they call it.” After the story was brought to President Truman’s attention, he held a press conference calling for changes and quickly contacted the House and Senate. That night, a unanimous vote was made by Congress and the bill sent to Truman. On May 11, the president signed into effect
a law permitting full medical rights to veterans of the undeclared Korea War. Newfound confidence carried many to better opportunities. Eddie Lovio’s first job back from Korea was at the Arizona Ice Company, but he was able to work his way into a machinist’s job at Hughes Aircraft with no experience. Six months later, he joined the Tucson Fire Department where he would retire as fire chief. Ruben Moreno returned to cabinetmaking, but he would eventually take a contract for a year of construction work in Saudi Arabia. He built every home he ever lived in. Others made activism their calling. In 1954, Hector Morales returned home to enroll at the University of Arizona and studied architectural engineering. By the late 1950s, he had become a deputy county assessor, serving until 1966. In December 1965, Morales won election to a Ward 5 seat on the Tucson City Council. In that time, he contributed to the Civil Rights movement by successfully fighting to enact the Omnibus Civil Rights Ordinance that created equal housing and equal opportunity employment in Tucson. Morales also extended Tucson water service to the Tohono O’odham and Pascua Yaqui tribes. He would also help remove sales tax from food and medical prescriptions. Morales would go on to serve as campaign manager for Morris K. Udall’s 1976 bid for the Democratic nomination for U.S. president. Later, Morales worked Tom Kleese’s documentary on the Korean War aired nationally on PBS in June of 2010
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at Tucson High School in 1969, where he taught physical education and coached baseball at the school’s new baseball diamond. Today that field is named after Castro. As one article in the Arizona Daily Star announcing the field’s renaming had put it, “It was baseball that kept Castro’s boys in school and it was Castro who kept them in baseball.” Easy Company veteran Tom Price was another Mexican American who would become prominent in his hometown, serving as Tucson’s longtime chief of operations. In the 1970s, Price got together with a few fellow Marines and organized the 20-year reunion for Easy Company. This led to the formation of Tucson Detachment 007 of the Marine Corps League Veterans organization. Together, the men held benefits to raise money for the community and had Christmas parties to collect gifts for the children. One of their great passions was the Devil Pups program. It seems a perfect fit. The Devil Pups program was started in 1953 when retired Marine Corps Col. Duncan Shaw organized a community benefit project to help in the development of character qualities in adolescent youth. The program sends several teens from across the southwestern United States to Camp Pendleton for two weeks during summer vacation – much like the Easy Company marines did in the late 1940s. The Tucson Marines’ involvement with these teens brings Easy Company’s own story full circle. In 1994, when Ruben Moreno began recording the stories of Easy Company, he published them in three volumes in 1994, 1996 and 2000, as booklets to help raise funds for the Devil Pups program.
Remembering the war It was in filming a history series called Tucson Remembers that documentary filmmaker Tom Kleespie realized another story needed to be told. “After completing three one-hour programs on World War II, we began to research the Korean War,” says Kleespie. “I was astonished with how little, in comparison to the previous wars, written or visual material was available…. Shortly after beginning the interviews, the importance and magnitude of the Easy
Eddie Rios, circa 1950
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Company Marines and other local veterans was quickly apparent.” Kleespie continues. “We felt these stories deserved national attention. We reedited the two local one-hour Tucson Remembers programs into one, Unforgettable: The Korean War program that aired nationally on PBS in June of 2010. It aired the week of the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War.” Today, most don’t remember that the Korean War never did officially end. The conflict stands as a marker for the beginning of the Cold War that lasted between the United States and Russia into the 1980s. The war is no longer so forgotten with Tom Kleespie’s documentary. But neither is it the well-known storyline that is World War II, Vietnam or Iraq. The veterans themselves have had to do much of the work preserving their story. In 1999, Joe Alvarez, an Army veteran of the Korean War, began the effort to give Tucson a Korean War Memorial in time for its 50th anniversary: a three-sided, eight-foot granite obelisk engraved with the names of Tucson’s fallen soldiers in all branches of the military. While searching for funding, Alvarez met a businessman in Tucson’s Korean community and found unexpected aide. The man called a meeting with several other Korean business owners. When all funds had been collected, the Korean community had given over half of the $25,000 needed. The rest came from and through the efforts of Tucson’s Edward W. Rhoads chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association. Five years later, the Marine League Detachment 007 wanted to do something a little more. Ruben Moreno and several others decided to create a tile mural from photos Moreno had collected of the 12 confirmed dead Marines, and add it to a wall near the obelisk. (A 13th soldier is likely dead but listed as missing in action.) Despite the loss of friends and the jarring end to their youth, most of Easy Company’s veterans will give the same answer when asked if Korea was worth it: Yes. Some point to an example of proof. “Have you ever seen that night-time satellite photo that NASA has of Korea? South Korea is lit up. Alive. North Korea, nothing.”
All historical photos Courtesy of Eddie “mickey” Rios
in the Carter administration as executive assistant for Regional Operations. He also helped found several organizations to help those who were poor or disadvantaged, and worked with César Chávez and Dolores Huerta as a congressional lobbyist on issues such as pesticides and union organizing. Days after Morales’s passing in March 2010, Democratic U.S. Rep. Raúl Grijalva acknowledged his importance. “What he did was to allow many of us to be who we are now. He was smart, competent, capable and very Latino,” said Grijalva. Morales’s time as city councilman did seem to be a pivotal point in Tucson politics. Between 1912 and 1965, only three Mexican Americans had served on Tucson’s City Council. Since Morales’s term, a Mexican American has served on the council every year. In 1968, when Morales stepped down, another Easy Company veteran was elected to city council: Rudy Castro for Ward 6. Castro would be elected again in Ward 5 at the end of 1973. But it was baseball that defined Castro’s life. When the Marines learned of his baseball skill, they spared him the trip to Korea and put him on Camp Pendleton’s baseball team. After his discharge, Castro got a scholarship at University of Arizona, playing shortstop for the Arizona Wildcats. Castro went on to a teaching and coaching career at several schools. Finally he landed
Raul H. Castro Institute PUBLIC P OLICY | EDU C AT IO N | LE A DERSHIP The Raul H. Castro Institute is a collaborative effort of
present the third annual salute
HONORING
THOSE WHO SERVE Nov. 18 at the Wyndham Hotel, 11:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.
Join us in saluting the Korean War veterans of Tucson s Easy Company and the brave individuals profiled over the past year in Latino Perspectives.
this event sponsored by
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ยก October 2010! Latino Perspectives Magazine
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Babes Photos ©
35 Entrepreneur
America Corrales, owner and namesake of America’s Taco Shop
37 Briefcase
Do you need to hire an employee or an independent contractor?
41 Career
Being a public servant can be a worthwhile career, especially if you want to be involved in your community
Movin’ Up Leal joins SRP Mabel Leal has joined the advertising and brand management team at Salt River Project (SRP). Leal will manage Hispanic advertising for SRP’s marketing and pricing initiatives, brand planning and implementation, goodwill advertising and legal advertising. Leal recently served as partnership specialist for the U.S. Department of Commerce Census Bureau to establish alliances in the community in support of Census 2010. She has also served as senior account
Mabel Leal, member of SRP’s advertising and brand management team
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¡!
movin’ up
director for Hispanic ad agencies in Phoenix, and was on the Univision Arizona TV news team earlier in her career. Leal graduated from University of Arizona with a dual bachelor’s degree in journalism and Spanish.
Flores new CEO of Banner Heart Hospital Debbie Flores was recently named the new CEO of Banner Heart Hospital in Mesa, where she will officially take the reigns in January 2011. Flores has been working in healthcare administration since 1981. Most recently she was the associate administrator at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City.
Harper-Marinick is MCCCD’s Exec VC & P
William Velez
Higher educators honored The Victoria Foundation recognizes the leadership of Hispanic educators of higher learning. The organization recently honored several educators: Nancy Gonzales, professor of psychology at ASU, who received the Dr. Eugene Garcia Award for Outstanding Latino/a Faculty in Research; the Dr. Loui Olivas Award for Distinguished Leadership was presented to Dr. Anna Solley, president of Phoenix College; UA mathematics professor Dr. William Velez received the Dr. Alfredo G. de los Santos Jr. Outstanding Latino/a Faculty Teaching-Service Award. The Edith Sayre Auslander Award for Outstanding Support of Hispanic Issues went to Eddie Basha, board chair of Basha’s Corporation.
station KJZZ 91.5 as the managing editor of Fronteras: Changing America Desk, the first regional news network of its kind that will investigate issues unique to southwestern states sharing the border with Mexico. Macias has worked in local broadcast news for more than 25 years.
Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick has been appointed executive vice chancellor and provost of Maricopa County Community Colleges. Harper-Marinick will also continue as chief academic and student affairs officer. A native of the Dominican Republic, HarperMarinick came to Arizona in 1982 as a Fulbright scholar. She holds a doctorate in learning and instructional technologies and a master’s degree in instructional media from ASU.
Radio Campesina promotes dedicated staff Radio Campesina, Spanish radio stations now under the César Chávez Foundation, has recently promoted administrative staff. Bill Barquin has been appointed COO of all the Radio Campesina stations in Phoenix and Yuma; Bakersfield, Visalia and Salinas in California and Washington state. Michael Nowakowski is now vice president of all the stations, and Maria Barquin now serves as the network program director.
40 Hispanic leaders under 40 recognized
Maria Barquin
Sloan nominated líder by MillerCoors Claudia Sloan, Phoenix president emeritus of the National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA) has been nominated for the MillerCoors Líderes Award. Sloan’s goal is to encourage young working professionals to pursue higher education and has led various initiatives toward that goal in hopes of increasing the number of Hispanics who achieve higher education.
Macias heads up Fronteras Veteran journalist Al Macias has joined NPR member
Felipe Ruiz
Movin’ Up Know someone who has been promoted, elected or honored? Send us the news of their achievements! E-mail movinup@latinopm.com 32
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Chicanos por la Causa and Univision Radio recently acknowledged 40 Hispanic leaders in the community under the age of 40: John Alvarez, Lily Antonini, Cynthia Aragon, Angelica Atondo, Bill Barquin, Vicente Barraza, Christina Boomer-Vazquez, Roxanne Bravo, Martin Camacho, Aaron Chaira, Victor Contreras, Adonis Deniz, Nuvia Enriquez, Alejandra Espinoza, Russell Esquivel, Ruben Gallego, Luis Garcia, Nelson Guzzo, Claudia Jasso-Stevens, Ana Juarez-Aguilar, Levy Leyba, Christina Martinez Romero, Sandra Mendoza, Luis Moreno, Rosario Ochoa, Andrew Pacheco, Linda Padilla, Lydia Perez, Katherine Resendiz, Joaquin Rios, Daniel Rodriguez, Felipe Ruiz, Fermin Samorano, Jesse Sanchez, Matt Sandoval, Venus Urueta, Luisa Valdez, Dawn Valdivia, Emily Verdugo, and Blanca Williams.
Maintenance Mart wins Trujillo Award The W. P. Carey School of Business at ASU honored five companies as Spirit of Enterprise Award winners, recognizing them for their ethics, energy and excellence in entrepreneurship. Minority-owned Maintenance Mart was presented with the 2010 Gary L. Trujillo Minority Enterprise Award sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.
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Good enough for la familia America Corrales, owner, America’s Taco Shop
Elevator pitch: We serve authentic Mexican food using the best products. At America’s Taco Shop, we care so much about the products that we serve, we would never send out food we would never serve to our own family.
deep breath and just do what you need to do, the best that you can.”
Best thing about owning a business:
What makes your business unique? The combination of food
We get to have our two daughters (Analis, 6 and Alexa, quality and our style of service in a very TO4)MOST involvedCOMMUNICATIONS in our comfortable setting. business, and we love seeing how happy our customers are with How did America’s get started? My husband Terry Bortin has our product.
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been in the restaurant business for about 16 years. One day he said we should share our carne asada with the public. We opened our first restaurant on October 20, 2008.
Company you admire: I admire Houston’s, because they are very consistent with the quality of their product. I am all about consistency and quality.
Greatest inspiration:
My mom has inspired me the most. She is the person I need to thank every day for instilling in me the love for cooking.
Best advice: From my 6-year-old daughter Analis (5 years old at the time). She said, “Mom, don’t get nervous. Take a
Business values: My husband and I America Corrales and husband, Terry Bortin continue to focus on improving on three areas that are most America’s Taco Shop Coronado important to us: FOOD, SERVICE 2041 N. 7th Street and a CLEAN restaurant.
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Send your information to editor@latinopm.com.
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The indie contractor vs. employee Know the difference between hiring and contracting workers By Jonathan J. Higuera
Keeping fixed costs low is one strategy many
savvy small businesses have used to keep their firms running during painfully slow times. One tool at their disposal is to use independent contractors instead of adding direct hires to their payroll. Using independent contractors has several advantages for an employer, particularly those fixated on keeping expenses down, which we know is top of mind right now for entrepreneurs as well as consumers. The key is to understand the difference between an independent contractor and an employee. Failure to do so could lead to a big hit financially for any business found misclassifying the two. So before you rush out to hire your vecino with artistic flair to paint that mural on the side of your tienda, make sure you understand how the government will define what makes him or her an independent contractor versus a store employee. Although independent contractor is the official government term, they are also called freelancers, consultants, free agents or just plain contractors. Your first step should be to analyze the job that needs to be done and whether it is best handled by an independent contractor or an employee already on your payroll. Take into consideration issues such as supervision, training, scheduled hours and pay frequency, among other factors. Across the United States, many businesses rely on independent contractors to help them meet their workload needs. They are an entrenched part of the U.S. workforce, and can present a mutually beneficial situation for the employer and the contractor. Employer benefits include savings in labor costs, reduced liability and flexibility in hiring and firing. Likewise, many independent contractors enjoy the flexibility of taking on assignments of their choosing; implementing their own strategy to complete the
assignment and getting paid for work completed. They are essentially self-employed business owners who enter into client-customer relationships with employers rather than a boss-subordinate structure typically found in employer firms. The number of independent contractors continues to increase in the U.S. workforce and will likely play a more integral role in many workplaces for years to come. But in legal terms, the line between an employee and an independent contractor can be murky. And, as the U.S. Small Business Administration website points out, simply calling a worker an independent contractor does not make them one. In fact, the Internal Revenue Service uses a “20factor control test” as a guideline to determine whether someone is an independent contractor or an employee. www.latinopm.com
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¡! ¡!
briefcase
The factors evolved from court cases and are not all-inclusive; in fact, no one factor is determinative (see sidebar). But if you whittle that test and others used to determine if a worker is an independent contractor, down to the core, the issue amounts to control: Who has it and to what extent? Do you as the employer mandate the hours the worker must arrive and depart? Do you determine the details on how the assignment or project will be completed? Do you pay the person in regular intervals, i.e., daily, weekly, bimonthly? These are among the considerations a government entity will evaluate in deciding whether you properly classified your hired hand. And if you misclassify your workers as independent contractors when in fact they are treated as employees and should be considered employees, the back taxes and penalties the offender must pay could be very damaging. Consider this: When hiring an independent contractor, the employer does not withhold income taxes as every employer must do for Social Security
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and Medicare taxes, which by extension means they are not paying their matching portion. The employer also does not pay insurance for unemployment compensation or workers’ compensation as they would for a regular employee. In addition, an employer does not have to pay overtime or even minimum wage to the contractor, nor provide employee benefits such as health care and retirement contributions. And contractors have little leverage to file employment lawsuits against the employer such as wrongful termination, discrimination and other such claims. As you can see, employers benefit greatly by hiring an independent contractor versus an employee. In return, independent contractors are usually paid 20 to 40 percent more than an employee doing the same job, according to the Wall Street Journal. “These are all characteristics of independent contractors that translate into savings for an employer,” says Lori Higuera, an employment attorney for the Fennemore Craig law firm (and no relation to the author of this article).
Classified by common factors Factor “tests” are used to decide whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. The IRS 20-factor control test is the most accepted among them, and evolved from court cases that came out of bankruptcy and tax courts. Common factors are based on the degree of control exercised by the employer, including:
www.phoenixlaw.edu ww
• Instructions to worker • Training provided by employer • Integration into business operations • Hiring, supervising and paying assistants • Setting hours of work • Continuity of the relationship • Working on employer premises • Requirement of full-time work • Setting the order or sequence of work • Requiring oral or written reports • Paying worker by the hour, week or month
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No single factor determines whether a worker is properly classified, but rather looked at as guidelines. Other factors come into play such as the type of service being provided.
You can begin law school as soon as January 2011! Call our Admissions Department to get started! 602-682-6800
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• Payment of worker’s business and/or • • • • • • •
traveling expenses Furnishing worker’s tools and materials Significant investment by the worker Realization of profit or loss by the worker Working for several businesses at one time Availability of worker’s services to the general public Firm’s right to discharge worker Worker’s right to terminate relationship
briefcase In fact, the savings that can be realized by using independent contractors may be leading some employers to be overzealous in their use of them. The number of misclassification cases has skyrocketed in the past decade and has consequently led to a crackdown by the IRS, which began a program this year to randomly audit 6,000 companies a year for the next three years to root out improper classifications. The federal government estimates it will raise $7 billion over the next 10 years through stepped-up enforcement around this issue. For those businesses that understand the role of contractors and how to use them properly, the arrangement can be ideal. Likewise, many people choose to be independent contractors because they see themselves in control of their work schedule, work load and assignments. Employers, on the other hand, can get critical tasks done without the expense of bringing someone on board; hence, the higher average wage for an independent contractor. The danger, however, is when the employer starts to view their role as the contractor’s boss instead of the contractor’s client. “A big trap I see employers and companies fall into is they tend to think that as long as they have a written agreement that says a person is an independent contractor and the worker may have even signed off on the agreement, that they are covered. In fact, that may not be the case,� says Higuera. “It’s not so much what the title says but what the relationship is.� So what are the dangers of classifying an employee as an independent contractor? First, as noted earlier, the employer will be required to go back and withhold income, Social Security and Medicare taxes from the employee’s wages dating back to the entire time the employee was working there. They would also have to pony up their matching portions. That would likely include late payment penalty fees. And if the employer is found to have deliberately misclassified the worker, the
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penalties could be tripled. At the state level, the local unemployment office will seek any unpaid unemployment taxes. And they may audit your business to see if you’ve been misclassifying other workers. Indeed, many cases of misclassification are discovered through a state agency such as the unemployment office. Oftentimes, when a misclassified worker is laid off or fired, they will make a visit to their local unemployment office to put in a claim for unemployment compensation. Because an employer does not pay quarterly payroll taxes for that worker, the agency will have no record of that person having been employed at that particular firm. An investigation may ensue if the worker asserts he or she was an employee of the company. And because of reciprocity agreements between state taxing authorities and the IRS, the IRS will usually receive the results of that audit, at which point the federal taxing authority may launch its own probe. One mitigating factor for the employer is that the IRS will allow them to reduce their liability by obtaining proof that those employees reported the income on their individual tax returns. But the credit an employer receives from this will only be issued after the assessed taxes have been paid in full. Despite these risks, employers should still consider all the benefits independent contractors bring to the table, says Higuera. The key is for a company to closely analyze its relationship with the individual and the expected job duties when determining whether the appropriate classification is employee or independent contractor. “If a careful analysis weighs in favor of an individual being an employee,� says Higuera, “and the company prefers to maintain an independent-contractor relationship with that person, the company is not without an option. It can revise parts of the relationship and certain job duties so that they more closely align with the factors that are indicative of an independent-contractor relationship.�
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Do you hear the calling? Public service offers the chance to make decisions that matter By Erica Cardenas
The “call to serve” has long been woven into our
nation’s framework through the form of public service. But it is not limited to volunteerism, running for office or becoming a first responder. Public “servants” in government positions, either elected or appointed, carry out policy and find solutions to issues that define the public agenda. Perhaps that means addressing needs of changing populations without raising taxes, or implementing technologies to better connect citizens to their government systems. Public administrators manage nearly every aspect of public service at the federal, state and local levels with the aim of contributing directly to the public good. Career opportunities within this sector are endless, including those in government at all levels, in nonprofit organizations, in higher education and in private-sector companies that work under government contracts.
Economy, efficiency, equity Perhaps the thought has crossed your mind: What is the educational path needed to launch a career in the public sector? The website www.publicservicecareers.org notes that to be considered as a strong candidate, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree is suggested, though additional education beyond a bachelor’s degree is preferred for those looking to sustain a public service career. First, let’s take a brief look at the general degrees that one can earn in the field itself. A public administration degree offers an academic background for those pursuing a career in both government and nongovernmental organizations. With areas of overlap between the two pursuits, a degree program that combines both will allow you to move into either area and give you a competitive edge. In fact, Arizona State University’s School of Public Affairs located at the downtown Phoenix campus recently announced that the school now offers Arizona’s first professional undergraduate degree program in
public service and public policy. Within this program, students may choose from three areas of concentration: public policy, public leadership or management and urban studies. As for the school itself, ASU’s School of Public Affairs (SPA) is the only school in the metro Phoenix area that is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). It also consistently ranks among the top 25 public administration schools in the country. Of course many choose to take their education a step further and obtain a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree. Coursework can include everything from financial management and grant and policy writing to human resource management and advocacy. If your interest involves conducting research on public policy and/or teaching at the university level, then a Ph.D. in public administration could be in order. www.latinopm.com
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¡! career
Opportunity in the digital age
Oportunidad en la era digital How do you become among the most reliable and trusted providers of communication and entertainment services in America? By connecting people with nearly endless opportunities to learn, grow, share and succeed. With Cox Communications, there’s no shortage of possibilities for our customers or our employees. Add your talents to the team that’s advancing communications into the Digital Age. Establish a career connection with a real and rewarding future, with one of the industry’s most respected and exceptional employers. To learn more about Cox, or to apply for open positions, visit us online. Grow with us. Crece con nosotros.
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With the expansion of government in size and scope, more public administration career opportunities exist than ever before. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that public administration positions need to be filled for a variety of public, state or municipal agencies. Significant demand for public administration comes from 1996 legislation that empowers more local public governments to administer federal programs. Considering the “three E’s” of public administration are economy, efficiency and equity, people in public service jobs typically do everything from analyze information, oversee expenditures and serve as consultants, to draft and implement governmental and public policy and manage people and resources. To get a brief glimpse into what being a “steward of service” could look like, let’s start with government positions, both at the federal and state levels. Your job title could be policy advisor, city planner or even city manager. Salary range for a city manager would most likely fall between $51,000- $80,000, though it could go as high as $175,000 depending on the size of your community. A bachelor’s degree might be the minimum requirement for a position of this level; however, an MPA is
We all need to step up and do our part to serve in some capacity. We all have a gift and talent. —Avondale Mayor Marie Lopez Rogers
EOE
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more appropriate given the level of responsibility. Such a role would require you to be involved with every city department, such as recommending policies or programs to city council or preparing the department’s annual budget. If having more personal daily contact with constituents is more your style, your bachelor’s degree in public administration could prepare you for a career in social work. The median annual salary falls somewhere between $35,000 - $45,000. Managerial and director positions within this career choice would pay a considerably higher salary and would allow you to make broader policy decisions that affect the groups you serve. If you’re interested in obtaining an entry-level public administration job in state or local government agencies, generally having two years in urban and regional planning or equivalent work experience, in addition to an undergraduate degree is preferred.
A passion to serve If you’re not necessarily on the educational path toward earning a degree in public administration, what are your chances for still serving in this capacity?
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A starting point toward public service A Great Place to Work! www.psea.com Public Service Employment Association. Membership-based job bank offering nationwide and local government job listings www.publicservicecareers.org Free national public service job finder. Includes rĂŠsumĂŠ posting www.govtjobs.com Free job-listing service for those seeking careers in the public sector. Includes rĂŠsumĂŠ posting
In reality, very good. Options abound, so much so that it could actually make it a daunting task to even know where to begin looking for work. The Partnership for Public Service and American University’s Institute for the Study of Public Policy Implementation (ISPPI) publishes an annual ranking of the best places to find jobs in public administration. The 2009 list includes such areas as: the Department of State, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Justice, the General Services Administration, the Social Security Administration, and the Department of Commerce to name a few. Another way to enter the public administration job field is through an internship. Not only does it provide worthwhile experience, but an internship can offer invaluable learning and networking opportunities. And for many, public service has been a career that they’ve “stumbled upon� along the way, and has proven to be a flourishing one at that. Currently serving as chief magistrate of Avondale, Mayor Marie Lopez Rogers says she never actually thought she would become an elected official. “My background was in social work. I was active in my community at a grassroots level and was very active with schools and church and helping people navigate through systems,� she explains. “We were a small community and someone had suggested that I run for office, so I ended up filling out a petition and took the steps to run for city council.�
Lopez Rogers was elected to city council in 1996. It was 10 years later that she found herself appointed by the rest of the council to fill the remainder of a two-year term for the former mayor. After being appointed in 2006, she ran for the position in 2007 and was elected that year as mayor of Avondale. As for Lopez Rogers getting to where she is today, she said it was based on the “old school of hard knocks� and was driven by her real-life and work experiences, but more her desire and passion to serve others. “At the end of the day, it’s not about you or your ego,� says Lopez Rogers. “It’s more about what you’re giving. I always say that your community will die if you don’t give back to it. That passion of helping and serving people is really crucial and has got to be there when working in the field of public service.� Lopez Rogers encourages all who are looking to enter the field of public service to keep an open mind. “It’s really about timing and keeping your options open,� she says. Lopez Rogers was born and raised in Phoenix. She lived on a farm labor camp with her family in Goodyear. Her parents were migrant farm laborers and the family worked together in the fields. She appreciates her roots, her community and the upbringing that has shaped who she is – she always has. Having served one full term as mayor of Avondale, Lopez Rogers plans on running for office again. She looks forward to what’s ahead.
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In memoriam Army Private First Class Barbara Vieyra
A 22-year-old East Valley mother killed in action
while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom has been laid to rest. Army Private First Class Barbara Vieyra died from wounds suffered on September 18 after her U.S. Army military police unit was attacked with an improvised explosive device and rocket-propelled grenade fire in Kunar province, Afghanistan. Pfc. Vieyra is survived by her 3-year-old daughter Evelyn; parents Raul and Elizabeth; sister Guadalupe; brother Roberto, and grandparents Roberto and Leovigilda. The first woman from the southeast valley to be killed in Iraq or Afghanistan, Pfc. Vieyra was buried in her hometown at the Mesa City Cemetery on Saturday, October 2. Before deploying to Afghanistan in April, Barbara Vieyra grew up on an East Valley dairy farm. Her parents, Raul and Elizabeth, emigrated from Mexico several years before Barbara’s birth in 1988. The first of three children, her father named her after Barbara Feenstra, co-owner of the dairy farm where Raul works to this day as an assistant herdsman. In 2006, Vieyra graduated from Skyline High School in Mesa. Within a year, she was married and gave birth to her daughter, Evelyn. But the marriage didn’t last. Two years after graduating high school, Vieyra found herself as a single mother and decided to enlist in the Army. According to her sister Guadalupe, Vieyra joined the Army because she wanted a job that would make her daughter proud. She handed the care of her young daughter, Evelyn, to the loving hands of her parents.
Date of entry into Army:
April 2008
Deployment: Afghanistan (OEF), April 2010 Unit: 64th Military Police Company, 720th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade out of Fort Hood, Texas
Awards: • Bronze Star • Purple Heart • Army Commendation Medal • Army Good Conduct Medal
• National Defense Service Medal • Korean Defense Service Medal • Afghanistan Campaign Medal with combat service star • Global War of Terrorism Expeditionary Medal • Global War of Terrorism Service Medal • Army Service Ribbon • NATO Medal • Overseas Service Ribbon • Combat Action Badge
Defending Freedom, Protecting Dreams This year’s VA Veterans Day Parade will kick off at 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 11, in honor of all veterans who have fought in all wars and conflicts. The Phoenix-based commemoration is one of the largest such events in the nation, with more than 200,000 people expected to attend. This year’s theme is Defending Freedom, Protecting Dreams. The parade will feature close to 100 entries, including historic military vehicles, marching units, color guards, canine and equestrian units, bands and much more. Other activities are scheduled leading up to the parade, including the VMLC Heroes One and All Luncheon on Friday, November 5, 11:30 a.m. at the Arizona Biltmore. For more information about the luncheon, the parade route and other events, visit www.phoenix.va.gov. www.latinopm.com
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It’s a math, math, math, math world
And 25 years later, ASU’s MSHP is still prepping students for it By Rosa Cays
and chances are three of them will make a face, as if you had just suggested they eat a peanut butter and hormiga sandwich. Ask ASU student Nancy Valtierra the same question, and she’d smile. She’s one of those people who actually likes math. It has always come easy to her, yet it wasn’t until high school that she really started to enjoy the subject. In her sophomore year at Apache Junction High School, her math teacher told her about the Math-Science Honors Program (MSHP) at Arizona State University and encouraged Nancy to look into it. Nancy put off applying until the last minute, perhaps reluctant to give up her summer, but managed to get her paperwork submitted in time for the 2009 session. “I didn’t know what to expect,” says Nancy. “I was scared. It seemed pretty intense.” Her instincts were right: it was intense – and intensive. After the first week, Nancy told her mother she didn’t want to continue; it was way more math than she could handle, so she thought. But her mamacita wasn’t going to let Nancy run from her fears. She was going to finish what she started. And Nancy Valtierra did finish what she started, even though the program’s intensity didn’t let up. The next summer, she enrolled in MSHP again. “It’s math 24/7,” says Betty Durham, another MSHP double graduate and Nancy’s close friend. The two girls met during the 2009 session and were dorm suitemates the following summer. A math whiz herself (“ever since I was a kid”), Betty likes that math is such a black-andwhite subject. “It’s either right or wrong,” she says, matter-of-factly. “It’s not open to interpretation.”
Or is it a SMET world? What may be open to interpretation is how important math is in the grand scheme of things – but not wide
Photo by kristin countryman
Ask five people how they feel about mathematics,
Nancy Valtierra and Betty Durham confer on a math problem
open. If you haven’t already heard, we’re living in the Information Age. Technology and an endless appetite for instantaneous information has taken us from a “manufacturing” social economy to one bursting with technical trade and, in turn, new jobs requiring the utmost in math, science and engineering skills. After the 2000 Land of Plenty reports by the National Science and Technology Council and the Commission for the Advancement of Women and Minorities in Science, Engineering and Technology identified “the perils inherent in a society characterized by ethnic, gender and socioeconomic disparity,” U.S. business leaders were also warning of a potential shortage of skilled workers. For the United States to strengthen its place in the world economy, the pool of science, math, engineering and technology (SMET) workers needed to expand – and to diversify to compete in the global marketplace. Professor Joaquin Bustoz Jr. must have had a SMET premonition of sorts, or maybe he was simply ahead of www.latinopm.com
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the curve when he established the MathScience Honors Program at Arizona State University in 1985. If he were alive today (Dr. Bustoz died of complications from a car accident in 2003), he would have celebrated the program’s 25th anniversary last month. Since its inception, 2,300 students representing 140 high schools from across Arizona have attended MSHP. A native of Tempe, Arizona, Bustoz fell in love with math at an early age. He was the son of farm workers who also devoted years of service to the Tempe Elementary School District (the Joaquin and Ramona Bustoz Elementary School was named after his parents). His education was well rooted in the university town, where he attended elementary and secondary schools, and chalked up a B.A. in 1962, an M.A. in 1963 and a Ph.D. in 1964 – all in mathematics, all at ASU. In 1973, Bustoz was a senior Fulbright lecturer in Colombia. He spent some time in Cincinnati teaching math, and returned to Tempe to teach at ASU in the late 1970s. He was the math department chair from 1982 to 1985, the same year he initiated the Math-Science Honors Program, which became “a national model for the development of minority students seeking careers in math, science and engineering.” Bustoz was also the director of the SUMS Institute (Strengthening Understanding of Mathematics and Science) from 1993 to 2003. In 1996, the National Science Foundation honored him and SUMS Institute with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. That same year, Bustoz was chosen for the ASU Alumni Association’s Outstanding Faculty Service Award, which he received again in 2002. Among his students and colleagues, Bustoz will always be remembered for his passion for mathematics and his desire to help underrepresented students reach their full potential.
The real world, period Betty Durham and Nancy Valtierra thought enrolling in the summer Math50
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Science Honors Program (MSHP) at ASU would offer them not only ramped-up courses in mathematics, but also a peek into the world of college life. After all, they go to class on the university campus, eat and even stay in dorms on campus. Little did they realize that the program would prepare them for the real world – the real world of accountability, responsibility and a strong work ethic, not to mention the importance of taking their studies seriously. “It’s like math boot camp. It’s one of the strictest programs at ASU,” says Rebeca Rondstadt-Contreras, one of the senior coordinators of MSHP. “Students learn math morning, noon and night – but they also learn life skills.” One common misconception about staying on campus during the MHSP means it’s a “getaway” from parents or home. Not so, says Rebeca. “Students are held accountable. We do bed checks at 10:30 p.m.” “MSHP is an intense and rigorous academic program,” says Cynthia Barragán Romero, senior coordinator of MSHP. “Students should expect to work hard and to be in class all day and work on numerous math problems, group projects and computer labs. Students who apply should have a strong math and science background and expect to be challenged mathematically.” Cynthia knows from experience. She attended MSHP as a high school student from Yuma’s Kofa High in 1993 and 1994. She became part of the MSHP staff after working as a student counselor one summer. “I felt that is was important to help other students, like MSHP helped me in college,” says Cynthia. “ASU is such a large university, it is easy to get lost in the system and feel overwhelmed. MSHP provided me with academic advising, jobs and mentoring.” Cynthia and Rebeca help the high school students before, during and after the MSHP, under the executive directorship of Carlos Castillo-Chavez, Regents professor and Joaquin Bustoz Jr. professor of math biology. They recruit, retain and
8-week session: May 30 - July 22, 2011 MAT 270 - Calculus with Analytic Geometry MAT 271 - Calculus with Analytic Geometry II MAT 272 - Calculus with Analytic Geometry III MSHP is intended for mature students with the academic potential to pursue careers that require a mathematics or science-based curriculum.
Applicants must be full-time high school sophomores, juniors or seniors enrolled in college-track courses. Sophomores must have completed a minimum of three years of high school mathematics by the end of the 2010-2011 academic year. Seniors may apply provided they plan to attend ASU in the fall of 2011. Students must have a minimum, cumulative, unweighted GPA of 3.25 and a minimum grade of “B” in all high school mathematics courses taken to date (algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus). Participants are selected based on academic achievement, letter of recommendation, and personal/career statement. Special consideration is given to first-generation, college-bound students (and is not based on financial or ethnic stipulations). Statewide representation is also a consideration in student selection. www.latinopm.com
nau.edu/difference
Elementary Education major, Class of 2012
¡ November 2010!
The Difference that Matters.
MSHP is supported and funded by the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost of Arizona State University. Tuition, room and board, textbooks and classroom supplies are covered. Courses are each worth three college credits in the five-week sessions and four credits in the eight-week session. Applications for the Summer 2011 MSHP are available in December and must be completed and postmarked no later than Friday, March 4, 2011. For more information, visit http://mshp.asu.edu.
5-week session: July 4 - August 5, 2011 AML 100 - Introduction to Applied Mathematics for the Life and Social Sciences MAT 170 - Pre-Calculus
Samantha Harbison Dr. Laura Sujo-Montes
MSHP for the math whiz in your life
Courses - Summer 2011 5-week session: May 30 - July 1, 2011 MAT 117 - College Algebra MAT 170 - Pre-Calculus
Professor, College of Education
so I can make a difference.
that she can accomplish what she sets out to do – and do it well. Now she’s a freshman at the university, majoring in psychology, minoring in math, living in the dorms and loving it. For Betty, participating in MSHP was the first time she spent time away from her family, “but it helped me spread my wings and learn to be on my own,” she says. Betty will graduate from Cibola High School in Yuma in 2011, and though she’s on the fence about her education plans for the future, she knows math will play a part in it, no matter what path she follows. “I want to study photography … visual journalism,” says Betty, “so I’m looking at Brooks Institute, but ASU is definitely at the top of my list.” Asked what advice they would give future MSHP students, Nancy and Betty both said that striking a balance between the program workload and having fun is key. “Let yourself have fun,” says Betty. Nancy adds, “And don’t get sick! Missing one day is like missing a week. Everything in moderation.”
I encourage students
mentor them as ASU alumni. They even travel to share information about the program with students across Arizona. And since 80 percent of the high school participants come back to help or teach for the MSHP, it’s safe to say that Cynthia and Rebeca’s efforts are reaping successful results. “Some students come [to MSHP] three summers in a row,” says Rebeca, “so they have a network in place and become mentors to their peers.” Rebeca and Cynthia’s work does not go unnoticed. “They’re remarkable at their jobs,” says Nancy, “always keeping us informed. They do a lot to help us now that we’re in college.” For Nancy, the best thing about MSHP was meeting new people, and discovering other people love math just as much as she does and are willing to give up summer vacation to learn more of it. Nancy also discovered she liked being in a college town. “I fell in love with Tempe and the [ASU] campus,” says Nancy. Nancy credits the program for helping her recognize her potential and
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Tough decisions, best intentions
Balancing what’s best for the caregiver – and the one being cared for By Georgann Yara
Olivia Bartha cannot stifle her tears. Even
though her head says she made the right decision, her heart still aches over having sent her elderly father to an assisted-living facility nearly two months ago. That was after a year of caring for him herself. The sleepless nights spent preventing her 88-year-old father from wandering through the house in the dark, unlocking the door and wandering out into the street, along with the other symptoms that accompany dementia, took their toll. That’s when Olivia realized her father’s condition required more than she was physically able to give. “It was a tough call for all of us,” Olivia says, as her voice cracks and she sniffs to hold back the tears. “It was very emotional. Most of it was seeing this man that raised me and took care of me for 21 years deteriorating right in front of me.” November is National Family Caregivers Month, which honors the selfless contributions people like Olivia make for their elderly relatives. Olivia’s is among the 13 percent of Latino households that provide care to an adult age 50 or older, according to statistics published by the College of Nursing and Health Innovation at Arizona State University. And while they do it for the love, part of the job requires saving some of that devotion for themselves and recognizing when it’s just not enough anymore.
In their shoes Before she moved her father into an assisted-living facility, Olivia felt like she had to take care of two homes: the one in which her parents lived and the one where she lives with her husband in Sun City.
Although she had help from her four brothers, the breaking point came when Olivia landed in the hospital from the stress of taking care of her father and looking after her elderly mother, who suffers from diabetes but remains strong. Since the move, Olivia visits her father regularly, as do her mother and brothers. Despite what she had been through, Olivia is comforted by knowing that she did all that she could. “He’s my father and it’s my obligation to take care of him. But I have peace about what I’m doing. You have to stay healthy yourself, but the love for your parents is so strong,” she says. www.latinopm.com
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Think outside the mailbox.
LPM, sent to your Inbox. For six years, LPM has been the only Arizona magazine focused on the local Latino community. Sign up for the free digital edition: www.latinopm.com/digital
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For the last two years, Theresa Mora has been a caregiver to her 85-year-old mother, who requires a walker and cane to get around, doesn’t hear very well and is experiencing the early stages of dementia. Theresa moved her mother into her Tempe home after she had fallen down more than once. When she’s not caring for her mother (helping her pay bills, doing laundry and picking up after her), Theresa works part time at a hair salon. She gets help from her sister, with whom her mother stays occasionally. “I’ve had to learn extreme patience. It is stressful, but I have support and I pray a lot. But sometimes you’re not as patient as you’d like to be,” Theresa says. “My sister and I talk a lot and we try to keep ourselves balanced, so we know if what each of us is seeing or feeling is just me or her, or if we’re seeing the same thing.” Since taking her mother in, Theresa goes out a lot less. Her boyfriend who would like to see her more, but understands why that is not possible. Sometimes Theresa feels like she is at the end of her rope, especially when her mother’s condition instigates a conflict between them. “I wish there was something more I can do. But you have to take [the conflicts] as they come and sometimes they are not pleasant,” she says.
Coping with the stress Dealing with the stress of being a caregiver is a challenge. Most caregivers do not ask for help or are so selfless that they do not consider their own needs because they are so focused on taking care of their loved one. However, periodically putting themselves first is the best thing caregivers can do, explains Dr. David Coon, professor and acting associate dean of Research and Ph.D. Programs for the College of Nursing and Health Innovation at ASU. Coon has collaborated in many research projects and hands-on studies regarding caregiving, particularly in Hispanic communities. “Caregivers do not do a good job of taking care of themselves. But taking care of themselves is often the best gift they can give to a loved one. Also getting the support
of loved ones keeps them providing in a way that’s balanced,” Coon says. Coon suggests basic stress management techniques for caregivers and making an effort for personal time to help maintain physical and mental health. Quick and simple methods include deep breathing, getting regular sleep and exercise – or simply walking away from a tense situation. Reserving a time each day for an activity that boosts mood, such as a favorite TV program, a phone call to a friend or even a cup of coffee on the patio are other options. Finding a way to stay connected with others is also important. Coon recalls two Latinas who were taking care of their husbands with Alzheimer’s disease and made a point to call each other after their favorite novella to discuss the show. They found the interaction therapeutic and knew that the woman on the other end of the line would understand if she had to quickly end the call. Dancing date nights with her boyfriend and taking quick walks helps Theresa relieve stress. She and her sister also provide support for each other since they have similar experiences. Olivia leans on her spiritual side. “I meditate on the Holy Spirit. That was what was really holding me up,” Olivia said. When a caregiver’s physical health is negatively affected, however, that is the time to consider getting more help from family or friends, or turning to a professional. “To be a caregiver is so awesome, but you have to have a direction of where this is going,” Olivia advises. “From the beginning, if you can, get brothers or sisters involved, because it will overwhelm you.” Theresa and her sister have discussed the next steps for their mother, whose condition is getting progressively worse. They talk about an assisted-living facility because the caregiving is becoming more than they can handle. Although Theresa’s children are worried about her and the stress she is enduring, she says being Latina brings an additional cultural pressure to keep her mother at home with her. “It’s not easy. Do we want to do it? No.
Caregivers do not do a good job of taking care of themselves. But taking care of themselves is often the best gift they can give to a loved one.
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– Dr. David Coon, ASU’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation But we realize she needs more care than we can give her. There are a lot of feelings of guilt,” Theresa says. “She will tell me that she doesn’t want to go to a care home ... that it’s not supposed to be like that and that we should take care of her. That makes it triple hard.” While there is a strong tradition of family in the Latino community, Coon says that there could be a conflict between an elder’s need for independence versus the need for care. Often the role of caregiving falls primarily to one person, with others providing some support. Women are usually the ones in that role. “While they do it willingly, it comes with its own set of challenges,” Coon says. “There’s a sense of letting go of things you’ve normally done in your life. Sometimes we forget that, until we walk in the shoes of a family caregiver and see what their day is like.”
Being a giver When considering whether to become a caregiver, Coon suggests families evaluate the impact the decision will have on everyone. Factors such as whether or not there are children living at home, any impact on income, the fact that people live a lot longer with frailty or chronic illness, the ability to keep mom or dad comfortable through their condition and end of life issues are among them. “Families are very well-intentioned, but sometimes there is friction over the understanding of what needs to be done,” says Coon.
Theresa knows what kind of care is best for her mother, yet she struggles with what her mother and culture says she should do and what is best for her family. “They tell me, ‘It’s not just about you. You have to do what’s best for the betterment of the whole family,’” she says. Theresa advises anyone pondering taking care of their elderly parent to get a full assessment of his or her condition, including any conflict or hard feelings from the past. “Find out where they’re at, what illnesses or issues they have, because those are going to resurface,” she says. “They don’t remember today, but they remember everything that happened yesterday.” Coon says caregivers ultimately feel rewarded, even after their loved one has passed away. It can come in the form of creating a stronger bond with the person needing care or with a sibling, or the pride in serving as a role model or keeping someone safe. “It’s amazing how they can still talk about what they’ve gained from this process,” Coon says. In his mind, Olivia’s father often returns to his years as a young man before she was born. He tells her about playing basketball as if he is still a youth, and his experiences as a soldier in Vietnam. And those are treasured moments that Olivia finds priceless. “I have learned that in the midst of what he’s going through, he goes back to where he was and I just go along with him and follow his journey,” she says. “That has been such a blessing.”
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10/21/10 12:01:49 PM
NO ONEâ&#x20AC;Ś IS IMMUNE TO CANCER
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GORDON L GRADO MD, FACRO, FACR, Medical Director
Movin’ up! Know someone who has been promoted, elected or honored? Send us the news of their achievements! Email movinup@latinopm.com
A United Community helped John create a better future for our youth. When you give to Valley of the Sun United Way, you’re helping unite people like John with at-risk youth. Which means you’re helping a number of children obtain their high school diplomas or GEDs while receiving occupational training. You’re also helping provide them with vital life skills such as leadership, discipline and responsibility. When you give to Valley of the Sun United Way, you support our work and the work of our partners that ensure youth succeed. See more about what a United community can do at vsuw.org.
Sponsored by GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER. LIVE UNITED™ Hear more stories like John’s at vsuw.org.
Agency: Off Madison Ave · 80 E Rio Salado Parkway #711 · Tempe, AZ 85281 · (480) 505-4500 · >Ý\Ê{nä®Êxäx {xä£ÊU Contact:Ê,ÕLi Ê Õ âÊUÊContact Email:ÊÀÕLi J vv >` à >Ûi°V ÊUÊ Contact Phone:Ê{nä xäx {xÈÓÊUÊClient:Ê17ÊUÊJob #:Ê£ä 17 ä ££Ê >Ì Ê*iÀëiVÌ ÛiÃÊUÊ Trim Size:Ê{° äÓnÊ ÊÜÊÝÊ{°nÓn£Ê Ê ÊUÊInsertion Date:Ê Ûi LiÀÊÓä£äÊÊUÊColor: 4C
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Healthy Employee is a Happy and more Productive Employee! A
Spirit of generosity
Contact the YMCA Corporate Wellness Team to add Wellness to your Employee Benefits
Diana Taurasi, Phoenix Mercury, guard/forward By Sam Naser
On the court, they call her DT.
Off the court, she’s simply Dee. Some consider her the greatest collegiate basketball player of all time. The world knows her as Diana Taurasi, and ever since her draft to the Phoenix Mercury in 2004, the former University of Connecticut star’s athletic achievements have continued to grab headlines.
Phone: 602.404.9622 Email: corporatewellness@vosymca.org Website: www.valleyYMCA.org
The stats Diana Taurasi was the No. 1 pick in the 2004 WNBA draft when she joined the Phoenix Mercury. In her rookie season, she averaged 17.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game, earning her the Women’s National Basketball Association’s (WNBA) Rookie of the Year award. Then, in 2007, she led the Mercury to their best record in franchise history at 23-11, clinching the championship title in a hard-fought series against the Detroit Shock. Two years later, she was bestowed with the WNBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) title, as she led her team to their second championship. The same season, she went on to capture the WNBA Finals MVP title, making her the second athlete to win the season scoring title, season MVP, finals MVP and a WNBA championship.
A YMCA Membership is the Valley’s BEST VALUE for Health, Fitness & Life Enrichment Programs
FREE Health Assessments . FREE Fitness Classes including Zumba, Body Pump, and Yoga . FREE Water Fitness Classes . FREE Amazing Kids and Teen Center while you work out for Family Memberships . FREE Senior Programs Reduced Rates on Swim Lessons, Youth Sports, Summer Day Camp, After School Programs . Priority Registration for all YMCA Programs . Access to computerized Fitness Software.
The YMCA has something for everyone: kids, teens, adults, & families. Come visit and let us show you why a YMCA membership is your best choice! Youth Development Healthy Living Social Responsibility
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Photo: Barry Gossage/Getty Images
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Cover girl DT’s is an undeniably stellar career; we’ve barely scratched the surface here. But recently, her physique may have gained her as many admirers as her athleticism. This past October, Diana bared all (well, almost all) on the cover of ESPN
YOU CAN CHANGE A LIFE. REALLY.
Magazine’s second annual Body Issue, which features athletes in the nude, “an exploration and celebration of the athletic form,” as the magazine puts it. The day of the photo shoot, Diana was having second thoughts. After some quick coaching from ESPN’s photo editor Nancy Weisman and photographer Sheryl Nields, Diana let go of her fears and decided to go for it with a “Let’s rock!” – her inevitable attitude when face to face with a challenge. The published images reveal Diana in tasteful poses showing off her athletic build. Diana’s clothes-free cover hit newsstands alongside five other cover subjects: PGA Tour golfer Camilo Villegas, New York Knicks’ Amar’e Stoudemire, World Cup goalie Tim Howard, the USA Water Polo Women’s National team, and Dutch wheelchair tennis player Esther Vergeer.
BE A HERO! BUILDING FUTURES MENTORING PROGRAM Our Building Futures Mentoring Program is one of our most rewarding services, and we are in desperͲ ate need of mentor volunteers. We have so many great kids, ages 6 to 18, who are at risk due to low selfͲesteem, social isolation, family problems, etc., Ͳ who just need a friend, a role model. A person who can spend a little time sharing interests, listening and ultimately raising a child’s selfͲconfidence and outlook on life. You would be amazed at what an afternoon at the ball game or a trip to the park can do for a child in need of adult companionship and guidance. Give us a call or email and we’ll explain how our program works, and how you can change a life. Really.
No rest for DT
To learn how to become a Mentor, contact the following directors in your area:
Photo: Sheryl Nields
With the Mercury’s current season over, Taurasi has reported to Turkey, where she plays for Fenerbahçe Istanbul in the International Basketball Federation’s (commonly known as FIBA) EuroLeague Women. Her Facebook fans (she’s got more than 15,500 of them) post comments in Turkish, regardless of whether or not she understands the language, welcoming her to the team and encouraging her to rest when she has the occasional rough game. And rest does not come easy for Diana Taurasi. She claims she never has to take a day off, and if she’s not playing the game, she’s in the gym or playing soccer. This work-hard attitude comes from her father. Diana says, “Every single day of his life, my father wakes up and goes to work … His respect for work and his persistence have really influenced the way I approach what I do. He works hard because that’s who he is.” As famous as she is for her basketball prowess, Diana Taurasi – Dee, is also known for her kindness, on and off the court. The Phoenix Mercury’s GM Annie Meyers, says about her: “Diana Taurasi
Image detail from photo shoot for ESPN Magazine
has changed the game of basketball. When her playing days are done, no player will ever compare to who and how Diana Taurasi has played the game. Her shooting, her all around game, her will to win her clutch shots, teamwork, and leadership. She makes everyone around her better and gives her team the credit.” Diana has thousands of adoring fans for good reason. She’s happy to sign autographs, especially for the kids, and even for fans of the opposing team. Her spirit of generosity makes it easy to like her, even if it’s DT, not Dee, driving in for a lay-up.
Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee Kate Clarno 602Ͳ212Ͳ6179 kclarno@vosymca.org Mesa Susan Long 602Ͳ212Ͳ6186 slong@vosymca.org Carefree, Cave Creek, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale Barb Harp 602Ͳ212Ͳ6289 bharp@vosymca.org Central Phoenix, South Mountain, Chris Town Marta Grissom 602Ͳ212Ͳ6187 mgrissom@vosymca.org Maryvale, Glendale, Southwest Valley Jessica Mena 602Ͳ212Ͳ6192 jmena@vosymca.org Regional Director Robert Neese 602Ͳ212Ͳ6071 rneese@vosymca.org
Youth Development Healthy Living Social Responsibility
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MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM | OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Organized by Experience Music Project and the University of Washington, Seattle
Exhibition Dates:
November 20, 2010–May 18, 2011
Joe Cuba band member Willie Torres dancing with partner at the Palladium. New York City, circa 1955.
American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music tells the story of the profound influence and impact of Latinos in American popular music. Through a rich display of artifacts, instruments, audio/visual interactives, listening kiosks, and films, this exhibition showcases some of the most important and iconic Latino musicians of the 20th century. Free with museum admission. Media sponsor Sponsored by
The exhibition’s national tour and related programs are made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund.
www.theMIM.org | 480.478.6000 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85050 Corner of Tatum & Mayo Blvds., just south of the 101 in Phoenix HOURS: Mon., Tue., Wed., Sat. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Thu., Fri. 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
NOVEMBER / 2010
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF SERVICE Voluntary Acquisition and Relocation Services Meet Dolores
Valle del Sol Adult Services Meet Della Holiday Heart Gift Giving Program Meet Gigi Rosa Carrillo Torres Memorial Scholarship Meet Alejandra VALLE DEL SOL / SPECIAL SECTION
602.258.6797 • www.valledelsol.com • www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz
VALLE DEL SOL — 40 YEARS OF SERVICE
Inspiring positive change by investing in human services, s t re n g t h e n i n g s e l f - s u ff i c i e n c y for families, and building the next generation of Latino leaders.
• Acting with integrity and honesty • P re s e r v i n g dignity for all • Respecting d i ff e re n c e s • Being inclusive of the community a t l a rg e • Empowering our community
VALLE DEL SOL / SPECIAL SECTION
As Valle del Sol celebrates 40 years of providing services, one thing has remained constant – its core mission to change lives one person at a time. “Valle del Sol has grown from a small social service agency into one of the leaders of the community in behavioral health,” says María Morales Spelleri, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors. “But it is the individual stories – the impact on individual people and families – that really make the difference. That’s why we are here, that’s why we are needed.” As a nonprofit behavioral health and social service agency, Valle del Sol’s four decades of success can be measured in the faces of the people it has touched. Each year, the agency’s programs reach thousands of people of all ages across all socio-economic lines, from those in poverty needing basic assistance to professionals seeking leadership development training. “Our greatest accomplishment is having touched thousands and thousands of individuals and made a significant difference in their lives,” says Luz Sarmina, President and CEO of Valle del Sol. Sarmina, who has led Valle del Sol for 15 years, says growing the agency to address more of the community’s needs has been critical. “Initially, we primarily provided substance abuse treatment and now we’re so much more than that. We have been successful at expanding to meet more needs through the dedication of the staff and the vision of the Board.” Valle del Sol was founded in 1970 as a response to the lack of behavioral health and social services available to Latinos. While Valle del Sol serves all communities, providing services that are culturally appropriate remains essential. “The work that Valle del Sol does is crucial – we provide a place where people of all backgrounds can feel comfortable,” Sarmina explains. A COMMUNITY PILLAR Valle del Sol’s solid reputation has earned it a place as an important pillar of the community. Four of Valle del Sol’s substance abuse and mental health programs were recently awarded for the fourth time the highest-level accreditation from CARF, a leading independent accreditor. “That is a huge point of pride for us,” Sarmina says. “It tells the community that this is an organization committed to its mission and that quality services are being provided in an
ethical manner.” One of Valle del Sol’s signature programs is the Hispanic Leadership Institute. More than 700 people have graduated from the leadership training program over the past 23 years. “HLI has a tremendous positive impact on the community,” says Board Chairwoman Spelleri, who herself is a HLI alumnus. Phoenix attorney Danny Ortega has watched Valle del Sol’s transformation since its inception and served as legal counsel for over 20 years. “Valle del Sol is an institution that we absolutely must have. It has an excellent reputation in the community because it has shown its ability to serve, and has touched many, many lives.” CHALLENGES FOR THE FUTURE As Valle del Sol enters “middle-age,” Sarmina sees opportunities as well as challenges. “One of the secrets of middle-age is to constantly re-invent who you are, and not just keep doing the same thing over and over again.” A major challenge to Valle del Sol, which is funded primarily through government contracts, is the current budget crisis. Kurt Sheppard, Chief Operations Officer, says while the agency is experiencing cuts in funding, the need is greater than ever. Over the last year, the number of people served has increased 40 percent. “The need right now is so great. Whatever people can do to help their fellow person will go a long way,” Sheppard says. As Valle del Sol continues to pursue its goal of helping people become self-sufficient – with a healthy mind, a safe place to live, and reliable income – Sheppard says future programs could include affordable housing and workforce development to meet those needs. Spelleri says at difficult times like these, it’s even more critical for Valle del Sol to continue to be a strong advocate and voice for vital community services. “It’s important to remind people of where we were and how far we’ve come, and that we will continue being a service provider in the future.”
“Our greatest accomplishment is having touched thousands and thousands of individuals and made a significant difference in their lives.” — Luz Sarmina
602.258.6797 • www.valledelsol.com • www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz
Valle del Sol
ADULT SERVICES Valle del Sol’s Adult Services program can be summed up with two words over the last year: positive growth. EXPAND TO WEST VALLEY Valle del Sol expanded its services to the West Valley with the opening of a service center in the City of Avondale. This is one of eight locations in Maricopa County, where Valle del sol offers a myriad of services. When Magellan Health Services decided to fund this project it recognized an important factor in opening the Avondale service center: the need to provide the West Valley with staff who are bilingual and culturally competent. During the first six months, more than 320 people went there for services, which include counseling and treatment services for adults, empowering them with the tools and skills they need to improve their lives and the lives of their families. CRISIS NAVIGATION Through additional funding provided through Magellan Health Services, three new programs were started. One of the new programs, Crisis Navigator, is a peer-run program to bridge the
For Della, Valle del Sol offered a place of hope at a time in her life when she didn’t know where to turn. She was familiar with Valle del Sol after first seeking help in 2004 when her children were teenagers. “I was a single mom with three teens and I had no idea what I was doing,” Della remembers. She returned to Valle del Sol for counseling services on the advice of her doctor when she began showing signs of depression after not being able to work because of her fibromyalgia. The physical pain of her disease began extending into her emotional feelings. “I couldn’t provide for my children like I was used to and I began closing everything out and missing out on a lot of things,” Della says. “I called and set up an appointment and I’ve been here ever since.”
VALLE DEL SOL / SPECIAL SECTION
In the past year, 133,605 services were provided to 1,510 adults. This is a 44% increase in services provided and consumers served. gap between crisis services and outpatient services while making an effort to prevent future non-emergent utilization of crisis services. During the first six months of the program more than 245 adults received Crisis Navigator services. PATHWAYS TO INDEPENDENCE Another one of the programs, Pathways to Independence, focuses on support services for young adults, ages 18-21. More than 40 young adults have benefited since it began last fall. The program promotes healthy independence and successful transition to adulthood with a focus on problem solving, communication skills, healthy living, improving relationships, stress management, living situations, assistance with housing applications, and resources. A couple of groups, specific to young adults, were also started. One of the groups is called ‘Taming the Monsters Within’ and it addresses topics related to anger management. SENIOR SERVICES In addition, a third program was started to provide mental health treatment to adults ages
Della looks forward to the three group counseling sessions she attends. She says, “along with individual counseling, the sessions have changed my life.” For instance, a rocky relationship with her oldest daughter has improved after Della learned better communication skills through a group called “Getting Along with Others.” Before coming to Valle del Sol, Della says, “I never felt loved in my life.” She found a sense of belonging in the Women’s Group she attends; something she never had in her own family. While she has made many friends in the Women’s Group, in a weekly Art Therapy group she found ways to express and explore her feelings. “I felt so much love and appreciated,” Della says. “Other women seek my help…I feel important.” “Every week that I come here, every week
65 and older, who are monolingual Spanish speakers. This group focused on empowerment and ways to decrease depression and isolation. This group consisted of more than 30 seniors who were presented with opportunities for leadership development, self-sufficiency and ways to build natural supports. BEHAVIORAL HEALTH, MENTAL HEALTH, SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT Services to behavioral health recipients with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse issues continues to be an integral part of the Adult Services program. Valle del Sol’s clinic in Tempe expanded its substance abuse treatment services to include general mental health counseling and medication management. Valle del Sol also expanded its substance abuse treatment by offering DUI and Domestic Violence education and treatment services for individuals who have been court ordered. This program works in conjunction with the agency’s general mental health substance abuse treatment for anyone who may need psychiatric and/or behavioral health services.
gets a little bit better. My self-esteem gets better, my future looks brighter. I’m able to talk and open up more about what brought me here. We’re all here for one reason and that’s to heal and to learn to live.” For Della that has proved true: “I’m living again. I’m the real Della.”
602.258.6797 • www.valledelsol.com • www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz
Valle del Sol
HOLIDAY HEART GIFT GIVING PROGRAM Valle del Sol’s Holiday Heart Gift Giving Program provides gifts to children who receive services at Valle del Sol, but may not receive a gift during the holiday season. These gifts are all donated by people in the community. It is a personal way in which someone can brighten the holidays for a child, by purchasing a toy or new clothes for one of the more than 500 children who are in need this holiday season. Hablamos SRP volunteers will be hosting a “wrap your heart” event where they will be wrapping donated gifts to be delivered to the children. Many of the children who receive services at Valle del Sol have have lives that have been difficult and their journey long by the time they walk through the agency’s door, struggling to hold on to hope. Valle del Sol help children and families find new ways to cope, celebrate their individual and collective strengths, and obtain confidence in the family bond. Valle del Sol wants your help so these children have a brighter holiday season by having gifts donated for them. A gift from the heart tells them someone in the community cares. “It is so heartwarming to see the faces of the children so excited when they are given a gift, and the gratitude of the parents, for the happiness they see in their children,” says Imelda Romero, Valle del Sol’s Philanthropic and Program Coordinator. “I remember last year, one child could not believe he received his favorite toy, and wondered how someone would know what he wanted. Another child received a pair of shoes and was happy he no longer had to share his shoes with his siblings. And another child never had a bicycle before and could not believe the bicycle being given to him actually was his to keep.” Consider participating in Valle del Sol’s Holiday Heart Giving Program and put a bright smile on a child’s face…a gift with a heart gives hope. 602.258.6797 ext. 246.
other family members are continuing the work started by her grandfather 30 years ago. Gigi works throughout the year buying Service to others has always been a value
Giovanna Verdugo, or Gigi as she is best known, first came to Valle del Sol seeking
and collecting toys to give to needy children
that has permeated Gigi’s life. Even as a
during the holiday season. She also gives
young girl, her family emphasized the
hundreds of items, such as school clothing,
importance of generosity. “I remember
shoes and backpacks to families in need
being five years old and gathering old
throughout the year. Gigi and her mother
toys together before Christmas for my
keep storage sheds full of clothing and toys
grandmother to give away.”
which they and other family members collect
Her long list of other volunteer service
throughout the year. Gigi teams up with
counseling services for her young daughter
includes serving on the board of Quality
Valle del Sol staff to make sure none of the
six years ago and now Gigi serves on Valle
Care Network Arizona, volunteering at her
children they serve would be left without a
del Sol’s board of directors as an empathetic
daughter’s school, and sending school
gift over the holidays. Gigi, alone, provides
representative for other parents and
supplies to a mission in Africa. But the
over 100 items.
consumers. “What’s most important to me
service that is most dear to her is longtime
is being the best voice that I can be for
family charity work called “Project
to live a life of service: “We all live in this
parents and children,” says Gigi, who has
Christmas.”
world together and we all need to help each
served on the board since 2007.
VALLE DEL SOL / SPECIAL SECTION
Through this yearlong project, Gigi and
Gigi explains why she feels it is important
other. It’s the right thing to do.”
602.258.6797 • www.valledelsol.com • www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz
VOLUNTARY ACQUISITION AND RELOCATION SERVICES innovative voluntary acquisition/relocation and sound mitigation
• More than 900 residents helped since the beginning • 293 classification meetings
services. Since the program’s inception, Valle del Sol’s experienced team
• 600 referrals made to assist families
members assisted more than 900 residents to relocate. 293 classification meetings were held to help applicants decrease the
Valle del Sol’s work with the Voluntary Acquisition and Relocation
length of time from acquisition to relocation. In addition, 275
Services (VARS) is a partnership with the City of Phoenix and Sky
referrals, consultations and case management services were provided
Harbor International Airport. It is a voluntary relocation program
for program participants. The referral coordinator assisted nearly 600
to enhance the quality of life for residents, property owners, and
families and individuals who were trying to overcome their struggles
community organizations in noise-impacted neighborhoods
with housing, financial instability, depression, suicidal ideation,
surrounding Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport through
domestic violence and mental health issues.
Leaving the neighborhood where you have lived for nearly 70 years can be overwhelming, even for a vivacious, strong matriarch like Dolores who is no stranger to tackling challenges. Dolores was born and raised in south central Phoenix in the neighborhood known as “Cuatro Milpas” and stayed there for decades to raise her family. The neighborhood, however, had deteriorated to the point where Dolores no longer felt safe. She qualified for help through the Voluntary Acquisition and Relocation Services (VARS), a program that assists residents in high-noise areas near the airport to relocate. The VARS program helped Dolores find a home in North Phoenix, near her granddaughter’s home. Dolores says she appreciates the staff at Valle del Sol who worked with her during the transition. “They were very
Through the VARS program Richard worked with Valle del Sol staff, who led him step-by-step on the road to his new home. “It was hard making the decision to move but I’m glad I did. Without this program I would never be enjoying a new house far away from the noise and in a more secure location.” — RICHARD
understanding. They had a lot of empathy for what I was going through.” VARS ensured Dolores’ new home was safe, inspecting the home and helping to re-roof the back porch and fix one of the bathrooms. “I am eternally grateful to VARS for all the help and support they gave me. They took the time to make sure everything was working and make sure I wasn’t going to have any problems.” Sitting on her back porch holding her great-granddaughter, Dolores reflected on the change she has experienced. Her new neighborhood, she says, “is peaceful and my neighbors are friendly. This is a blessing.” Her new home has become a gathering place for family celebrations. As the sounds of birds surround her in the backyard rather than the roar of airplanes or rush of freeway traffic that used to shake her old home, Dolores sums it up by saying, “new beginnings are the best thing for anyone.”
VALLE DEL SOL / SPECIAL SECTION
602.258.6797 • www.valledelsol.com • www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz
Valle del Sol
ROSA CARRILLO TORRES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP Thanks to hundreds of donors who supported the Rosa Carrillo Torres Memorial Scholarship, Valle del Sol in partnership with the Arizona Community Foundation awarded the 2010 scholarship to Alejandra Valenzuela, a graduate of Carl Hayden High School. The recipient of last year’s scholarship, Yareli Garcia, successfully completed her first year at Gateway Community College. Along with Yarlei Garcia, Ingrid Tay who was the 2008 scholarship recipient, received a renewal scholarship to continue
Left-Right: Ingrid Tay, Alejandra Valenzuela, Yareli Garcia
their studies.
“Without Valle del Sol’s help and the
The Rosa Carrillo Torres Memorial Scholarship was established by Valle del Sol to provide support for students who are of Hispanic heritage and the first generation in their family to pursue a secondary education. Rosa is lovingly
Rosa Carrillo Torres Memorial Scholarship,
remembered by the many people whose lives she touched and her legacy
I would not be where I am today.”
lives on and will continue to make a difference in the lives of those in need by
– INGRID TAY
way of future educational scholarships.
Carrillo Torres Memorial
center that focused on encouraging students
Scholarship. The Carl Hayden
to pursue higher education.
High School graduate was selected out of twenty applicants. Alejandra says she couldn’t have received
Alejandra was also a leader with Girls for a Change, a campus club which empowers young women to make a difference. Each
the good news at a better time. The
year, the group tackled an issue such as
scholarship helped her cover the remaining
prejudice or teen pregnancy on which to
was the first in her family to graduate from
cost she needed to attend classes at Grand
focus their efforts. “I was very into clubs,”
high school in the United States. With the
Canyon. “I was so happy to receive this
Alejandra says. “I participated in over seven
help of a Valle del Sol scholarship, she will
scholarship that would cover the rest of
clubs in my school and in my community.”
also be the first to attend college.
what I needed,” she says.
As the youngest of five siblings, Alejandra
Receiving this memorial scholarship
In college, Alejandra expects to continue
gives Alejandra a special connection to the
as a trailblazer for younger members of
working with community groups like the ones
woman it honors. “Learning how much she
her extended family. Her niece and other
she volunteered with during high school. She
did for her community made me feel that I
members of Alejandra’s family were there
served as president of United Young Leaders,
could really relate to who she was. I’m proud
when Alejandra was presented with the Rosa
an after-school club through her neighborhood
to be given a scholarship in her name.”
The 17-year-old takes to heart her role
“I am honored to be part of the selection process for Valle del Sol’s Rosa Carrillo Torres Memorial Scholarship. It was incredible to see the number of high caliber students and future Latino leaders. I am glad I could be part of making a difference in someone’s life!” — JULIO HERRERA, MARKETING, DIRECTOR OF MULTICULTURAL MARKETS, COX COMMUNICATIONS
VA L L E DEL D E L SOL S O L / /SPECIAL S P E C I SECTION A L S E C T I O602.258.6797 N VALLE • www.valledelsol.com • www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz 602.258.6797 • www.valledelsol.com
Va l l e d e l S o l E M B R A C I N G T H E C O M M U N I T Y
8AA; :;A DA ?G 8ÓDvH E;DEA;
Cynthia
Helping them to achieve a better life. Cynthia – finding help For Cynthia and her four children, the Homeless Prevention and Rapid ReHousing Program served as a lifeline during a particularly tough period after losing her job. Erick – learning positive behaviors Taking part in Valle del Sol’s Youth and Family Services program, Erick learned ways to control his feelings and concentrate better in school.
Erick
Della
Della – finding strength For Della, the Adult Services program provided her with the counseling she needed to help her with her depression, self esteem, and to learn to live a productive life. Alma – strengthening self-sufficiency Alma found help for herself and her two sons at Valle del Sol’s Community Resource Centers where she learned how to become a better parent and help her kids. Carolyn – making a difference Carolyn feels good about getting involved and sharing her skills through working as a volunteer for Valle del Sol.
Alma
Lisa and Adelphia – becoming leaders Both Lisa and Adelphia graduated from Valle del Sol’s Hispanic Leadership Institute-Pinal’s program in which they learned how to influence positive change and become better leaders in their community. Aurelia – investing in human services Through Valle del Sol’s Tiempo de Oro program for older adults, Aurelia learned how to cope with problems, depression, and how to take care of herself. Dolores – a life-changing experience With the help of the VARS program, Dolores was given the opportunity to improve her living conditions by moving into a home in a quieter and more secure neighborhood.
Valle del Sol… Inspiring positive change by investing in human services, strengthening self-sufficiency for families, and building the next generation of Latino leaders.
Carolyn
Lisa & Adelphia Va l l e d e l S o l i s o n e o f A r i z o n a ’s l a rg e s t n o n p ro f i t , c o m m u n i t y - b a s e d o rg a n i z a t i o n s h e l p i n g t h o u s a n d s o f m e n , w o m e n , c h i l d re n , f a m i l i e s , a n d t h e e l d e r l y e a c h y e a r t h ro u g h c o u n s e l i n g , s u b s t a n c e a b u s e t re a t m e n t , s u p p o r t s e r v i c e s , a n d l e a d e r s h i p d e v e l o p m e n t p ro g r a m s .
602.258.6797 | www.valledelsol.com www.facebook.com/valledelsolaz Photo: Jeff Calbom/Anderson Image. is committed to helping the Valley prosper for generations to come.
Aurelia
Dolores
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Latino Perspectives Magazine
ÂĄ November 2010!
www.latinopm.com
P.S.
Stella Pope Duarte
I never mourned Vietnam By Stella Pope Duarte
Elephant grass grows seven feet
tall in Vietnam. It covers hundreds of meters of jungle terrain and grows in clumps under trees and alongside riverbanks. Vietnam veterans described it as the “wait a minute” grass. Wait a minute, my hand is cut. Wait a minute, my boot is caught. The tall, green blades of elephant grass have edges as sharp as razors. There is no known use for elephant grass. The locals can’t even use it as thatch for their homes. I saw elephant grass on television in the ‘60s, but I didn’t know what it was. There were American troops hiding in it. It never occurred to me that the Viet Cong were hiding in it, too. Few details about the Vietnam War ever impressed themselves in my mind, until years later when I pondered the war and knew that the ugly memory of what happened there lurked in my mind, not unlike elephant grass, harmless enough from afar, deadly up close. In 1998, I visited Ho Chi Minh City, founded in 1698 and formerly known as Saigon, to complete research for my first novel, Let Their Spirits Dance. The novel tells the story of a Chicano/Latino family living in post-war Vietnam. The mother of the deceased Vietnam veteran receives
an inner call to travel to the Vietnam Memorial Wall to honor her son before her death. By an amazing quirk of fate, I had dedicated the book to the memory of Tony Cruz, whose family was the first I interviewed. I did not know Tony had told his family when he left for Vietnam over 30 years ago that one day they would read about him in a book; that he would be famous and he would “make history.” Of the 3.14 million men who served during the 30-year conflict in Vietnam, 191,000 were men of Latino descent, although there may have been thousands more not using a Spanish surname who remain unidentified. Every fourth or fifth name on the Vietnam Memorial Wall is a Spanish surname. Interestingly enough, 6 percent of the Congressional Medals of Honor awarded for service in Vietnam went to men of Latino and Asian descent. As I took in the Vietnam experience, I found myself shedding tears for the injustices suffered by so many. Images rose in my mind: coffins coming home by the hundreds, draped in American flags; friends from school who had been drafted; the barrios, our Latino neighborhoods emptied of young men who were not in college, and the faces of young American troops running and hiding, shooting and being shot at on television newscasts of the war. This I had seen and forgotten.
Elephant grass in Vietnam cuts like a knife. It is unsafe. It can kill. American troops took chances hiding in it, but there was no choice. Soldiers had to adapt to the terrain. Jungles were fiercely hot and humid, the days long and tedious, filled with uncertainty and always, great thirst. Life for those who waited in the States was uncertain, too. There was no elephant grass to cut the flesh, but there were great losses of life that cut into the soul. Shame ran rampant as Americans uncovered the truth about destructive decisions the government made concerning the rules of war in Vietnam. The process of mourning was put aside, and then it was never mentioned again. Life went on. Men came back, some to live prosperous lives, others to a life of self-destruction, drugs and psychological problems. I never mourned Vietnam until I stood in elephant grass, and ran my fingers over its razor-sharp edges, slowly – until I saw blood.
Stella Pope Duarte was born and raised in South Phoenix. She began her writing career in 1995 after she had a dream in which her deceased father told her that her destiny was to become a writer. Her work has won awards and honors nationwide. www.latinopm.com
¡ November 2010!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
69
¡!
my perspective on: achieving educational goals
Higher education within reach Rio Salado College’s president is living proof that guidance and support garner success
For other views on diverse topics, visit our website at www.latinopm.com.
More perspectives
By Chris There was a time in my Bustamante youth when I didn’t know what direction to take, whether I had the “right stuff” to pursue a higher education or survive outside the realm of my hometown, Marana, Arizona. While I excelled in high school and graduated with honors, I was terrified by what lay ahead. I was the first in my family to set my sights on earning a bachelor’s degree, but had no one within my family and few within my social circles to look to for guidance. I was fortunate enough to find help at Pima Community College and ultimately graduated from the University of Arizona. Three decades and three college degrees later, I now serve as the newly appointed president of Rio Salado College, the largest of the ten Maricopa Community Colleges in terms of student headcount, and only one of a few Latinos leading a major online higher education institution in the United States. I’m living proof that with the right guidance and support network, education can be a gateway to success for anyone with a passion for learning. In October, America’s first White House Summit on Community Colleges was held to discuss the important role community colleges play in workforce and economic development, and in providing educational opportunities for many people in our nation. It was a proud moment for us at the Maricopa Community Colleges when former Estrella Mountain Community College student Albert Ojeda opened the summit and told his compelling story about how his community college experience transformed his life. As “the college within everyone’s reach,” it has always been Rio Salado College’s mandate to serve those who need our educational services and programs, yet the urgency to expand our reach and to increase the number of students who complete certificates and degrees intensifies. Here are just a few ways in which we are meeting the educational and community needs of Latinos and others we serve: The hallmark of Rio Salado College’s success is our
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Latino Perspectives Magazine
¡ November 2010!
www.latinopm.com
online program, which currently serves over 40,000 students annually. The college continues to lead the nation in providing flexible formats with “every Monday starts” and utilizing innovative technologies to increase the number of students served in ways that make learning more convenient, affordable and accessible. Rio Salado’s ACE (Achieving a College Education) Puente Program assists high school students to get an early start on college, and many are the first in their family to attend college. These students enroll in online and hybrid courses, giving them an opportunity to earn up to 24 college credits before graduation. The program’s success is primarily due to the mentors, who monitor student progress and provide guidance. Rio Salado’s Adult ACE Program offers GED and college preparatory instruction and scholarships for students who need help transitioning into the community college system or the workplace. Rio Salado’s public radio station KJZZ 91.5 is launching its Fronteras: Changing America Desk this fall, the first regional news network of its kind. Regional reporters will investigate and report about issues unique to our communities and the southwestern states sharing the border with Mexico. We at Rio Salado College and the Maricopa Community Colleges, like many of you, know firsthand that education can make all the difference in people’s lives. Unfortunately, too few Latinos are graduating from our nation’s colleges and universities. As the president of Rio Salado, it is my priority to do my part to change that. We are determined to reach out to Latino communities and provide the guidance each student needs to begin the journey toward certificate and degree completion. I challenge you to help by increasing awareness about the accessibility and value of our community colleges and to inspire someone you know to enroll who can benefit from our programs and services. Dr. Chris Bustamante began his tenure as president of Rio Salado College in June, 2010. His prior executive positions at Rio Salado include vice president of Community Development and Student Services, and dean of Academic Affairs. He has also held seniorlevel government affairs positions in the Maricopa Community College District.
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