Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Topeka, Ks. I got hired on at Santa Fe RR, in Topeka and they transferred me to KC in 1977. So, my wife Loretta and my two kids, Javier & Laticia have lived here in KCK ever since.
What is your family heritage?
My dad is Mexican-American lived in Topeka, Ks. My mom was born in San Francisco, Mexico.
What is your occupation?
I am retired...I worked 4 years with the RR. Then worked in the cable tv industry, in a supervisory and management positions. Retired from Time Warner Cable in 2013.
How have you supported or contributed to the local Hispanic/Latinx community?
We had a house built and live in the Argentine Community...which consists of a large Hispanic community. I got involved in the community and church activities. I had served on the Board of Directors at El Centro, a nonprofit Hispanic Organization. Served on the Board of Directors of ANDA “Argentine Neighborhood Development Association” & ABC “Argentine Betterment Corporation”. Both were nonprofit organizations, which were to improve the neighborhood with housing, business development and special events in the Argentine Community. I served two terms as Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus of Unity Council # 709 at St. John Evangelist Church in Argentine...which consists mostly of Hispanic members. I was appointed and served 4 years on the Planning & Zoning Commission for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County.
How do you connect with your Hispanic/Latinx culture?
All the neighborhood committees that I served on or headed up...I always made sure that we had Hispanic vendors and entertainment in our community events. I also, played and coached fast pitch softball on a mostly Hispanic softball teams. I have been inducted in the Mexican-American Softball Hall of Fame, here in Kansas City and Newton, Ks.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Playing every day with my brothers and sisters, and with our neighborhood Friends. Also, going to the annual Mexican Fiesta In Topeka...which was given by the Church, and it always lasted for a week long.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
It means how proud I am of my Hispanic culture. Recognizing and celebrating our accomplishments here in America.
In your opinion, what is the most important issue facing the Hispanic/Latinx community?
I think changing the stereotype image of what other people think of Hispanic people. Dealing with immigration and DACA.
