The English Edition

www.holatoday.org
Journal
A Publication of Hispanas Organizadas de Lake y Ashtabula December 2009-January 2010 Vol. 6, Issue 1
 From the Editor
Hola!
We need Comprehensive
Immigration Reform. HOLA is
committed to working hard for this
urgently-needed change. Reform is
long overdue, and Congress must
take immediate action to fix the
broken immigration system. There
is a national organization, Reform
Immigration FOR America (RI4A),
that is mobilizing Americans to
push elected officials to vote for
immigration reform in 2010. HOLA
will be working closely with the
national campaign. But we need
the support of the community. This
campaign may be the last chance we
have in several years to get reform.
So it’s time to get involved! We are
proud of the many local leaders who
have emerged as we’ve begun our
efforts, some of which is detailed on
pages 16 and 17.
Experts know that
Comprehensive Immigration
Reform will create millions of
new taxpayers, enhance national
security by focusing enforcement
and security measures on the
most dangerous threats to our
communities, and protect workers.
It will help with economic recovery,
keep families together and protect
the due process rights of all.
HOLA’s mission is to improve
quality of life in the areas
of health, education, and
economic well-being through
advocacy, outreach and
relationship building among
Hispanics and non-Hispanics.
2 / The HOLA Journal
Most importantly,
comprehensive reform with a path
to legalization would provide a
$1.5 trillion boost to the American
economy. It would generate an
annual increase in U.S. economic
output of at least 0.84 percent.
This amounts to $1.5 trillion in
additional Gross Domestic Product
over 10 years. By contrast, mass
deportation would devastate the
economy. It would cost over $240
billion taxpayer dollars, take decades
to achieve, and tear apart millions
of American families. It would
also result in $2.6 trillion in lost
economic activity over ten years as
we deport millions of productive
workers, and consumers.
It’s long past time for Congress
to fix this problem. Democrats,
Republicans, and Independents agree
that comprehensive immigration
reform is the solution for America.
It has the support of local business
and labor leaders, elected officials,
civil rights leaders, and people of
faith from diverse religious groups.
But WE MUST WORK to make
it happen. Please contact HOLA
and join us! No more excuses. Work
with us to pass Comprehensive
Immigration Reform. It’s for
the good of our community, our
businesses, workers, families—it’s
good for everyone. Only then we
will truly have reason to celebrate a
Happy New Year.
Sincerely,
Verónica Isabel Dahlberg, Editor
Cover art by Cleveland-based
Ecuadorian artist
Rafael Valdivieso Troya
The HOLA Journal is published by HOLA, Hispanas Organizadas de Lake
y Ashtabula, in both Spanish and English language versions. All articles are
property of HOLA and cannot be reprinted or duplicated without permission.
Unless otherwise noted, all articles are written by Verónica Isabel Dahlberg.
Staff of The HOLA Journal
Editor:
Veronica Isabel Dahlberg
Translations:
Heddy Herrera
Graphics, Layout andDesign:
eWebInnovations
Creative Design Group
Advertisement Design:
Danette Janecek
Contributing Writer:
Camilo J. Villa
Copy Editing Assistance:
Edward A. Sotelo
Photographs:
Veronica Dahlberg
Advertising Sales, Letters,
or Inquiries Contact:
The HOLA Journal
PO Box 3066
Ashtabula, Ohio 44005-3066
(440) 964 - 3372
www.holatoday.org
HOLA Board of Directors
Gladys Figueroa Stec
Victoria Saldivar
Lynn Tramonte de la Barrera
Peggy Wilkenson
Ángela Gonzalez Echeverri, PhD
December 2009-January 2010
Letters to the Editor
Hola!
History of a Dream My husband and I just finished reading I’m really excited and happy, just
The Hola Journal in English (we like my compatriots, Latinos and
As a steady reader of HOLA, I’ve attempted the Spanish version.) Americans who anxiously awaited
taken the liberty of writing this letter All we can say is WOW! What this new edition, and which I have
in the hopes it will be published, or an AWESOME JOURNAL. already begun to read. There is
at least read. This dream began 23
no doubt that the content is better
years ago when, just like millions You are truly blessed at what you do. every time. I am very proud of you
of Hispanics, I decided seek my I was hanging on every word of because you look for ways that we,
fortune in the United States with a every article I read. I even went the immigrants, won’t have so many
sack full of wishes and a few pesos in
back over some articles to read them obstacles in our long pilgrimage, but
my pocket. After many hardships, I
again. The seeds you are sowing also find ways to support talented
succeeded in crossing by Tijuana and will be reaped now and for many people, artists, painters, poets, or
started working in the fields. That’s
generations to come. simply people who have different
where I had the fortune of learning
points of view or other perspectives.
about one of the biggest Hispanic Thank you for making such a
leaders this country has had, Mr. difference in NE Ohio and the world. My deepest admiration and respect,
Cesar Chavez. He dreamt of uniting and above all, continued and faithful
all farm workers and attaining better
Sally Bradley reading of The HOLA Journal.
for them; but unfortunately he didn’t
Ashtabula
have time to fulfill his dream.
Hugo E.
After a year, destiny brought me Painesville
to Chicago where after much effort migra is around town. But beyond (Translated from the Spanish)
I started to work. In those days, that we could
Hispanics were not united, with the care less what
exception of the Cuban and Puerto happens to our
Rican communities. It was there that neighbors, were
I got to know a young man named not interested
Luis Gutierrez. He had the dream of in what’s
helping and uniting Hispanics. happening
Today he is a Congressman from around us, in
Illinois and continues with that our schools, or
dream. The years passed, 16 to be with our local
exact, and the communities grew into officials.
all the barrios that today make up the It’s time we
great city of Chicago. Lots of races,
wake up and see
different ideologies, but several years
for ourselves.
ago they united into one group for a Today there
march for immigration reform. It was are some of us
so beautiful to see everyone together. who can vote,
Then six years ago, my destiny but in five or 10
brought me to Mentor, Ohio. And years all of our
in these six years I’ve seen this children will be
community grow enormously in all able to vote. And
aspects, but not in the most basic who are they
ones such as representation and going to vote
unity. Unfortunately, in my humble for—someone
opinion, this community is one of the who doesn’t
most disunited and apathetic—we know anything
come together only when we need
something urgently, or when the Continued on Page 11
3 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
HOLA’s Annual Holiday Party Serves 437 Kids
T
hanks to the generous contributions of
the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots and
the participation of many volunteers,
hundreds of children enjoyed a cheerful holiday.
HOLA held its 11th annual holiday party for kids
on December 5th in two shifts to accommodate
the hundreds of children receiving gifts. The
party was organized under the leadership of
HOLA Board president Gladys Figueroa Stec. In
all, 437 children received toys, sporting goods,
and played games, did crafts and met Santa
at the family center at St. Mary’s Church in
Painesville.
HOLA is deeply grateful and would like
to thank the following people and groups for
their tremendous support volunteering for the
event: Berkshire High School Spanish Club,
Willoughby South High School Spanish Club,
U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots, Marines Tim
Sherman, Tim De Wolfe and Kristopher Cortes;
LeeAnn DeWolfe, Norm Sigel (Santa) and
4 / The HOLA Journal
Volunteering for a “Feliz Navidad”
By Brittany LaGanke
Willoughby South High School
Our Spanish Club’s participation in the Toys for
Tots Christmas party was both rewarding and fun!
We first heard about HOLA and the party through
our club advisor Mrs. Visnick when she asked for
volunteers for the party. Our club had been looking
for ways to get more involved and give back to the
local Hispanic community. Many of us signed up
because it sounded like a fun way spend a Saturday
afternoon while getting service hours (and practicing
our Spanish speaking skills).
The party definitely delivered on all levels. The
kids were as sweet and easy to get along with as
they were adorable. The parents were very engag-
ing and hopefully impressed with out speaking
skills. The staff and the people from HOLA were Students from area high schools brought games and crafts for the kids.
welcoming and helpful. We set up activity tables Photo by Veronica Dahlberg
The U.S. Marine Corps Tim Sherman (left), Toys for Tots coordinator for the region,
with games and different things for the kids to do
and U.S. Marine Tim DeWolfe, longtime “Santa” for HOLA. They presented HOLA
with the Commander’s Award. like coloring, crafts, and board games. The kids time and that we were contributing time to such a meaningful orga-
seemed to enjoy themselves. nization. Our club will definitely be participating in future HOLA
Julee Siegel; Carmen Overall, it was a fun party and we had a great time. events and we look forward to continuing to be involved in the
Ramos, Maribel It felt good knowing that the kids were having a good Hispanic community. It was a fun and truly gratifying experience.
Figueroa, Jeanne
Rich, Linda Pinzone,
Maria Padilla, Araceli
Frausto, Dolores
Llamas and her
daughter; Ronnie
Marquez, Heddy
Herrera, Geoff Klein,
Ken Grant, Grant
Construction; Keith
Rohrbaugh and Don
Bach, St. Mary’s
Church, Lakeland
Community College,
and the many others
who contributed.
Photos by Veronica
Dahlberg
December 2009-January 2010 5 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
Joining Forces to Harness Nature’s Bounty
Entrepreneurial Market Garden Project Completes its First Year
T
he first year of the Hispanic
Grower Project came to a
close in November when
the garden’s five acres were plowed
over in preparation for spring 2010.
By all accounts, the project was a
success, despite starting late in the
growing season. Five growers, Igancio
Razo, Jorge Reynoso, Jose Frausto,
Israel Arrieta, and Gabriel Aguirre,
transformed five fallow acres of
soil into highly productive market
gardens. But they did so with help
from an increasingly expanding group
of supporters. The project started as
collaboration of the Lake County
Soil and Water District, the Western
Reserve Resource Conservation and
Development Council, sustainable
food advocate Parker Bosley, HOLA,
Lake Erie College and Bruce Cormack
of Cormack Market Gardens. An
invaluable partner turned out to be
Lake County Nursery. Jeff Hyrne,
president and CEO donated the use of
five acres on the nursery property, as
well as irrigation and other services
and equipment. Igancio Villa joined the
team as a bilingual consultant, having
spent most of his life farming and
educating people about farming in his
native Colombia. The Ohio Department
of Agriculture and the Cleveland
Foundation both provided seed money
to get the project off the ground. It was a
learning experience for all involved.
“What I thought was the most
fulfilling is that we started late with
a lot of roadblocks and the families
with a lot of hardships—there were the
weeds, the bugs—and still the families
were enthusiastic,” Bruce Cormack
said. “To me it was so amazing
what they were able to accomplish.”
Cormack says there sheer amount of
hard labor it takes to clear an acre per
family by hand, and keep weeds under
control as well as irrigate, would be
discouraging for anyone.
Jose Frausto and his family farmed
6 / The HOLA Journal
one of the acre plots. “In my case, it during the first year. The late start was
gave me new horizons,” Frausto said. a handicap, as was a lack of enough
“The project gave me the desire and equipment, out-of-control weeds, and
opportunity to succeed, doing something irrigation issues to work out. There
that I created with my own hands. It was was also lack of outlets for selling the
beautiful also because I had the help of large quantities of vegetables that were
my wife and kids.” harvested. But this year, project partners
There were some unforeseen expect better outcomes.
difficulties that became apparent “Now that we’ve had a year’s
experience, we’ll be
able to prepare the
soil and start earlier,”
Cormack said. The
plan is to construct
“high tunnels” or
greenhouses on the
site to get vegetables
to market sooner.
And though the
emphasis will still be
on ethnic vegetables,
the variety will
expand to include
Teresa Razo selling produce grown by her family at the Painesville products that are in
Farmer’s Market. high demand, like
From L to R: Glenn Odenbrett (Western Reserve RC&D staff member), Jorge Reynoso, Adrian
Achtermann (WRRC&D Council), John Niedzialek (WRRC&D Coordinator), Maurine Orndorff
(Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District staff), Bob Zeitz (Lake SWCD Associate Board
Member), Jeff Hyrne (Lake County Nursery President & CEO), Carolyn Kissel (RC&D Council
Secretary), Dick Baker (Lake SWCD Board Member), Araceli Razo, Terry Cosby (State Conser-
vationist for Ohio, Natural Resource Conservation Service).
December 2009-January 2010
Araceli and Ignacio Razo plant their first seeds.
carrots and potatoes. “Those just aren’t
crops that the Mexicans grow,” Cormack
said. “But we need products that will
make some money.”
The added focus and planning
on the types of crops planted will
hopefully eliminate problems like the
overwhelming amount of zucchini
everyone was harvesting with no place
to sell. “We made a lot of mistakes,”
Frausto agrees. “And it was a lot of
work; having to work on the garden after
a long day at my job. But it was a really
good project and should be a priority
for this year. Just seeing my daughters’
happiness when they saw the first
Congressman Steve LaTourette visited the market garden site on August 5th.
Igancio Razo shows him the fruits of his labor.
7 / The HOLA Journal
Photos by Veronica Dahlberg
Bruce Cormack, of Cormack Market Garden in Mentor, Ohio,
a technical advisor for the project, instructs project partici-
pants Jorge Reynoso and Gabriel Aguirre.
watermelons growing made
all the hard work worth it.”
Project partners hope
other communities will
adopt the model, which
has been getting a lot of
attention among green and
sustainable food groups.
Even U.S. Congressman
Steve LaTourette, who
visited the site and met some
of the families in August,
was impressed. “I see a lot
of projects that don’t work,
so it’s wonderful to see one
that does,” he said.
Bruce Cormack demonstrates the use of a brand new roto-
tiller to Jose Frausto.
The Razo sisters with some of the produce grown on their
family’s one-acre plot.
December 2009-January 2010
 Ride-Along with the Important: Recent Changes in Ohio Traffic Law
Highway Patrol
The grace period was included The headlight provision is a
with this change, because it takes a secondary enforcement matter
period of time for people to really — officers can not pull you over for

L
ate on a Friday night this past drivers or accidents, which was start fundamentally understanding using your windshield wipers without
summer, the streets in southern good news. But the fear factor and ingraining it in their driving headlights turned on but can issue
Lake County seemed almost was always present. Because of behaviors. citations for violations if you are
deserted. Trooper Ryan J. Fox of the the unpredictability of potential pulled over for other infractions.
Ohio Highway Patrol post in Chardon danger—an irate driver with a The headlights requirement was
one of several law changes included Submitted by Lieutenant Jim Sivak
started his shift at 10 p.m. prepared for gun, or a crime suspect wanting
in the state transportation budget, Ohio State Highway Patrol
the type of events that troopers are used to avoid being caught—Troopers
approved by lawmakers and signed Chardon Post Commander
to handling: accidents, drunk drivers, deserve our respect and support
speeders and disabled vehicles. And he’s for they work they do. They are by Governor Ted Strickland earlier
trained to be alert for the unexpected. To providing a valuable service this year. The bill took effect in July.
be sure, it’s unsettling to wonder, Could keeping our roadways and our As of July 1, 2009, a new state law
this be a night when something goes communities safe. Trooper Ryan J. Fox took effect requiring the use of Another provision increases interstate
speed limits for vehicles over 8,000
New Law
terribly wrong? There’s really no headlights whenever drivers use their
windshield wipers. The law had a pounds to 65 mph from 55.
way to know, and that is the danger
law enforcement officers face every six-month grace period, meaning When you turn on
Additionally, drivers are now
day. Riding along with the Ohio officers issued warnings instead of
tickets to offenders. required to move over when service your wipers, turn
Highway Patrol is a way to create an
understanding, albeit limited, of the
vehicles with flashing lights (tow on your lights, too.
But the law requires you to start trucks, utility repair vehicles, etc.) are
functions of the job. But a civilian
turning your headlights on now when at work. Under prior law, they had to
cannot really know what it’s like to
driving in the rain. move over for emergency vehicles.
risk your life every day at work.
Rather, the purpose of this Ride-
Along was to try to understand
the day-to-day responsibilities of
providing safety and security on the
roadways, while balancing good
public relations. The question of
racial profiling always looms large:
How do officers decide who gets
stopped, who gets a ticket?
Surprisingly, on these dark streets,
it was impossible to see who is being
pulled over until the trooper walks
up to the driver’s window. Time and
again, on this particular evening,
periods of monotony spent cruising
around were punctuated with traffic
stops of a few erratic drivers. With
the trooper’s spotlight trained on
the vehicles, it was a surprise to
discover that the majority turned out
to be elderly citizens! That was a big
revelation.
There were no tickets issued on
this Ride-Along, just a few questions
the late night drivers answered
satisfactorily to Trooper Fox. It was
a quiet evening and into the early
morning hours with no impaired

8 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010 9 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
 Bullying is Harmful to Children Census Reaches Out to Hispanics
calling, the use of offensive language kids and teachers. Be aware of what
and insults. Children may face goes on at school and outside of By Camilo J. Villa munity receive forms in the mail, The census is employing thousands
humiliation, emotional abuse and school. Let your child know that they understand the process. The of people across the state to work
social isolation because the bully if there is a problem and if they The national census will be held PCCC want to reassure household on the polling, and there is a special
puts them down, calls them names, are being bullied to let you know. in 2010, and Painesville city need for bilingual workers. The
spreads rumors, and makes fun of It’s okay to report it to a teacher, a wants to make sure every- pay starts at $13.00 an hour
them in private or in front of others. counselor and/or a school officer. one in the city and nearby and is an excellent opportunity
Bullying can be classified as an communities is counted. for people who speak English
Physical bullying can involve assault, intimidation, stalking, As part of its efforts, the and Spanish to not only make
punching, pushing, kicking, hair- menacing. The important thing is to city is forming a Complete money, but to help provide a
By Gladys Figueroa Stec pulling or threats of physical harm report it to the authorities. Count Committee to focus on very important service to the
to the student by coercion and hard-to-reach groups, such community. Hiring is happen-
With the school year halfway over, intimidation. Racial bullying can For more information on bullying as the elderly, homeless, and ing now, and more information
you may be well into a routine getting be racial slurs, jokes and offensive you can go to the website for minorities, to increase their can be found by calling toll-free
your kids up early in the morning, gestures because of a student’s Stop Bullying Now! (Basta ya de participation in the census. 1-866-861-2010!
preparing breakfast and seeing them appearance and cultural traditions. Molestar!) by the US Department Since the Latino community By answering the census
off on the bus. For your children Sexual bullying may involve sexually of Health and Human Services is a large and growing part form questions, helping to
though, there may be insecurities abusive comments and/or physical Administration: of the population, Painesville spread correct information
is making a special effort to about it, or even working for
they are not telling you about. Is your contact. Cyber bullying is the use www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov and
ensure the Hispanic commu- the census, we can all do our
child is anxious or nervous when he of technology to send and/or spread click on link for Espanol or call
nity is counted. Assistant City part to help make the 2010
goes to school? One of the factors hurtful, harassing and humiliating 1-888-ASK-HRSA. You may also
Manager and Community Develop- members that there is nothing to be Census successful and beneficial to
that may cause your child anxiety is messages and images. Cyber bullies contact Gladys Figueroa Stec, Victim ment Director Doug Lewis is reach- afraid of, and if a census worker vis- our community.
the school bully. It is important for do this through email, text messages, Advocate, at 440-350-5792. ing out to groups such as HOLA to its their home,
every parent to know what bullying internet chat help spread information about the any informa-
is about. Children may be victims rooms, instant census, and to correct the myths and tion shared at
of bullying because of their race, messaging misconceptions associated with it. that point is
religion, family, appearance, lifestyle and social The purpose of the census is to also completely
or social status. networking apportion congressional representa- confidential.
sites such as tion in the states, and to determine Painesville will
There are different types of bullying. my space and the allocation of federal funding. be setting up
The most common type of bulling facebook. This is based on the population special areas
is verbal and physical bullying. of states and regions, so it is ex- and locations,
Verbal bullying may include name Talk to your tremely important that an accurate in partnership
count of all those who live in the with organi-
History of a Dream area be counted. The government zations like
is required to count every individ- HOLA, where
Continues from Page 3 ual. And contrary to what is often residents can
about us? We should organize ourselves and look believed, all information provided bring their
for leaders amongst us, because they exist! All we to census workers is strictly con- forms in if they
have to do is give them the opportunity and believe fidential, including name, citizen- need help filling
in them. When you motivate yourselves to wake up ship, age. What is most important them out.
and unite, as we did when we helped elect president is population numbers. No personal In addition
Obama—because “the Hispanic vote elected him”— information given to the census is to making sure
call me. In the meantime, let me keep dreaming and shared with anyone, including other that everyone
remembering the past when I saw great communities government agencies. is counted, the
united. Ha! I’m getting old. The Painesville Complete Count census is an
Committee (PCCC) is in charge of opportunity for
Jose Frausto making sure there is no fear and mis- individuals to
Mentor, Ohio understanding around the census so get part-time
(Translated from the Spanish) that when people in the Latino com- employment.
10 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010 11 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
Rare and Shocking!
Invasion of the Mexican Mummies

S
imon Lozano of Guanajuato,

Photo courtesy of the Detroit Science Center

Mexico and 35 of his
compatriots did not obtain a visa
to enter the United States. But they
landed with great fanfare in Detroit,
where Americans are treating them
with the utmost care, and attention
to every detail, marveling at how
well the Mexicans are put together.
That’s because, well, Simon and
his co-nationals are in fact dead;
the shockingly well-preserved and
mummified remains of miners, soldiers,
farmers and children on loan from the
Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato
for an exhibit entitled, “The Accidental
Mummies of Guanajuato.” The 10,000
square foot exhibition debuted at the
Detroit Science Center in October and
will run through April 2010, before
touring six other cities.
The mummies are about 100 years
old and from the stunning colonial Forensic experts from the University of Quinnipiac are
city of Guanajuato, where they conducting a series of tests on the mummies to determine cause
were buried in crypts in a hillside Standing in front of the entrance to the crypt with its decorative skulls, of death. Photo courtesy of the Detroit Science Center.
cemetery. As the story goes, families recreated for the exhibit, from left to right: Mexican Consul Jacqueline
Moran, John Castillo, Detroit Science Center President Kevin Prihod, For more information visit www.accidentalmummies.com.
of the deceased were required to pay Mexican Consul Vicente Sanchez, Armando Labra, J. Abel Sanchez.
an annual cemetery fee. As family Photo by Veronica Dahlberg.
members passed away, and fees went
unpaid, cemetery workers would mummies through a series of CAT scans and endoscopies
remove the remains and store them in in the interest of medical science. “Certainly we’ve found
a warehouse. The well-preserved state evidence of pregnancies, osteoporosis, tuberculosis, a whole
of the mummies soon became a source bunch of things. It’s fascinating,” Prihod said. “Very little is
of local curiosity, and a museum was known about them. Most are from the late 1800s and early
built around them. Scientists believe 1900s. They were unclaimed. We know their actual names.
that hot weather warmed the crypts We know a little of their history.”
and dried out the bodies. The Museo Another goal of the exhibit, which combines science,
de Las Momias is a source of pride for is consistent with Mexican culture known about Day of the Dead, but not history and cultural anthropology, is to inspire Latinos to
many Mexicans, attracting millions and their reverence of the dead.” Dr. much else about Mexican perception become interested in science. “The Hispanic community is
of visitors, but the mummies have Eduardo Romero Hicks, Mayor of the of death. “We’ve all developed a great not well represented in attendance at the Science Museum,”
never been seen in the United States. city of Guanajuato, agrees. “Death has appreciation for the Mexican culture,” Prihod says. “So we were looking for content that would
One of the mummies, Simon Lozano, been part of the culture of Mexico, he said. “I think that’s one of the plusses attract Hispanics. Our mission is to get people to pursue
is a distant uncle of Ray Lozano of and in particular of Guanajuato for for us, exposing non-Mexicans to that careers in science, engineering and technology.”
the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of centuries. Our Mummy Museum aspect of the culture.” Visitors to the state-of-the-art exhibit will view the
Commerce, who was happy to see his represents our way of acknowledging Forensic experts from Quinnipiac mummies, learn about life and culture in Guanajuato100
An Andorian. STAR TREK THE EXHIBITION debuted at the Detroit
ancestor in the exhibit, said Detroit the everyday citizens that once University are studying the remains, years ago, and learn about modern-day forensic technology.
Science Center in Feb. with the world’s most comprehensive collection
Science Center President Kevin Prihod. walked our streets, whose bodies have doing DNA testing and trying to There will be four interns from Southwest Detroit to interpret of authentic Star Trek ships, set re-creations, costumes and props from 5
“For some cultures this would transcended generations because of a determine cause of death. In addition, for Spanish-speaking visitors, and a variety of educational television series and 10 films over the last 40+ years. For more info on the
be abhorrent,” Prihod said. “But it natural process,” he said. Prihod had a local hospital is running some of the materials available. Detroit Science Center visit their website. Photo by Veronica Dahlberg
12 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010 13 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
Don’t Waste Money on Bad Immigration Advice
By Linda Silakoski, Esq.
There are many people who
claim to “help” or “represent”
immigrants. Sadly, too many
people take money from immi-
grants, but don’t do the neces-
sary legal work properly. As a
result, unsuspecting people end
up in immigration court, and
often deported from the United
States. Why? Because they
trusted the wrong person with
their immigration situation.
Often notarios and “immigration
consultants” in the United States
advertise services and give legal
advice which they are not quali-
fied to provide. Notarios are not
attorneys, and usually do not
have specialized immigration
training. By giving legal advice
and completing immigration
forms, notarios and immigration
consultants frequently are in-
volved in the unauthorized prac-
tice of law, which is a crime.
Do not be fooled by fancy
advertising or big offices. Only
licensed attorneys and “accred-
ited representatives” recognized
by the Board of Immigration Ap-
peals can practice immigration
law, give legal advice or repre-
sent people in immigration court.
14 / The HOLA Journal
Teen Health: energy. So eat
plenty of fruits
your imagination (painting, drawing,
doodling, sewing, writing, dancing,
and vegetables composing music, etc.) you not only
Unfortunately, there are also some unscru- money to continue doing the
5 Ways to Fight Depression and get regular get those creative juices flowing, you
work. meals (even also loosen up some positive emotions.
pulous attorneys who also take advantage
If you feel depressed, it’s best to do if you don’t feel hungry, try to eat Take time to play with a friend or a
of people. If you need legal advice about ■ Charges low-income immi- something about it — depression something light, like a piece of fruit, to pet, or do something fun for yourself.
immigration, want to file for a visa, a green grants extremely high fees doesn’t just go away on its own. In keep you going). Find something to laugh about — a
card or citizenship, or if you must go to for immigration services and addition to getting help from a doctor Identify troubles, but don’t dwell on funny movie, perhaps. Laughter helps
immigration court, talk to an experienced then does absolutely nothing or therapist, here are 5 things you can them. Try to identify any situations that lighten your mood.
immigration attorney. for them. do to feel better. have contributed to your depression. Look on the bright side. Depression
Exercise. Take a 15- to 30-minute brisk When you know what’s got you affects a person’s thoughts, making
■ promise or guarantee you legal Before seeking help on your immigra- walk every day — or dance, jog, or bike feeling blue and why, talk about it everything seem dismal, negative, and
results, like a green card, for which tion case, call and ask whether the if you prefer. People who are depressed with a caring friend. Talking is a way hopeless. If depression has you noticing
you were not eligible person is licensed to practice law, and may not feel much like being active. But to release the feelings and to receive only the negative, make an effort to
■ promise “special treatment” from the if they practice immigration law. Im- make yourself do it anyway (ask a friend some understanding. If there’s no one to notice the good things in life. Try to
government for a fee, or because he migration matters are too important to to exercise with you if you need to be tell, pouring your heart out to a journal notice one thing, then try to think of
“knows someone” trust to anyone except an experienced motivated). Once you get in the exercise works just as well. one more. Consider your strengths,
■ ask you to sign blank forms immigration attorney! habit, it won’t take long to notice a Once you air out these thoughts gifts, or blessings. Most of all, don’t
■ tell you to sign forms written in a difference in your mood. Breathing and feelings, turn your attention to forget to be patient with yourself.
language you do not understand Note: This article is not legal advice.
It is for educational and informational exercises and meditation can also help something positive. Take action to Depression takes time to heal.
■ say it is okay to lie to Immigration or people with depression feel better. solve problems. Ask for help if you
make a misrepresentation on a form purposes only. If you know of someone
Nurture yourself with good nutrition. need it. Feeling connected to friends © 1995-2010. The Nemours
who needs legal advice, advise him/
Depression can affect appetite. One and family can help relieve depression. Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with
If your attorney does any of the above, her to consult either a licensed at-
person may not feel like eating at all, but Express yourself. With depression, permission. For more ar�cles like this,
consider hiring a different attorney! torney or an accredited representative
another might overeat. Proper nutrition a person’s creativity and sense of fun visit KidsHealth.org or TeensHealth.org.
from a BIA recognized agency.
When you are choos- can influence a person’s mood and may seem blocked. By exercising
ing someone to help
with your immigration
case, watch out for
anyone who uses the
following scams:
■ Files applica-
tions for you
for programs
that do not
currently ex-
ist, such as a
legalization or
amnesty pro-
gram.
■ Takes money
from you to
“hold a place”
for you, so your
case is first in
line “when the
law changes.”
■ Charges a total
price for all
services up
front, and then
demands more
December 2009-January 2010 15 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
 Community Mobilizes for Another
Try at Immigration Reform
O
n May 19, 2009, members
of the Congressional
Hispanic Caucus (CHC)
held a roundtable discussion in
Washington D.C. to lay out their
strategy for achieving Comprehensive
Immigration Reform. Invited were
50 national leaders in the immigrant
rights movement. It was here that
Congressman Luis Gutierrez (D-IL),
Chair of the Immigration Task Force,
outlined his principals that were
later integrated into the long-awaited
immigration reform bill introduced
on December 15, 2009: the
Comprehensive Immigration Reform
for America’s Security and Prosperity
Act (H.R. 4321).
Gutierrez and the CHC had clearly
done their work building a solid and
diverse coalition of Congressional
allies from the Asian Pacific American,
Black and Progressive caucuses, such
that the bill was introduced with over
Oct. 13th rally on the south lawn of the U.S. Capitol. 61 people from Lake and Ashtabula attended.
The banner was made by Ashtabula artist Israel Arrieta in 2007, for the marches in Painesville
after the raids.
16 / The HOLA Journal
Immigration Roundtable, May 19, 2009, Rayburn House Office Bldg. From left to right:
Rep. Silvestre Reyes (TX-16); Rep. Jared Polis (CO-2); Rep. Nydia Velasquez (NY-12);
Rep. Luis Gutierrez (IL-04) Rep. Joe Baca (CA-13).
90 House democrats as co-sponsors.
Recalling President Obama’s
promise to Latinos to work on
immigration during his first year
in office, Gutierrez said: “We have
waited a year; the time for action
is now,” adding, “Every American
will benefit from this bill, from the
heightened national security, from
the commitment to family unity,
from the common-sense approach to
jobs and our economy.”
To raise awareness about the
upcoming fight for immigration
reform, a rally was held Oct. 13th
on the south lawn of the Capitol
building in Washington D.C.
Thousands of people came from
around the country to hear a call
to action from Gutierrez and other
leaders. HOLA brought a group
of 61 people from Ashtabula and
Painesville to the event.
Irene Velasquez, a mother of
All photos by Veronica Dahlberg
December 2009-January 2010
Listening to Rep. Luis Gutierrez’ historic conference call on November 18th
in Painesville.
three from Ashtabula, was one of
the participants who went to D.C. “I
wanted to go and support all of the
people who have been taken from
(Ashtabula),” she said, “so that we
don’t have to live in fear all the time.
We wanted to be a part of immigration
reform.” She said it was a learning
experience. “Because we’re afraid of
driving, we only know Ashtabula. So
it was nice to have new experiences
and meet people who are dealing with
the same thing.”
In order to announce his plans
to a wider audience, Gutierrez held
Women of HOLA at the Oct.13th rally in Washinton D.C.
17 / The HOLA Journal
conference on December 15, Gutierrez announced
the introduction of his immigration reform bill. “It
is the product of months of collaboration with civil
rights advocates, labor organizations, and members
of Congress. It is an answer to too many years of pain
—mothers separated from their children, workers
exploited and undermined security at the border— all
caused at the hands of a broken immigration system.
This bill says ‘enough,’ and presents a solution to our
broken system that we as a nation of immigrants can be
proud of,” Gutierrez said.
In Ohio, representatives Marica Fudge (D-11), and
Dennis Kucinich (D-10) signed on as co-sponsors to
the bill. Nevertheless, experts say Gutierrez’ bill won’t
go far. Rather, a bill is expected in the Senate from Sen.
Chuck Schumer, and in the House from Zoe Lofgren.
Meanwhile, a national campaign effort comprised of
every major church denomination, business and labor
unions, and civil rights groups is underway to ensure
the president can sign a new law by May.
an historic
conference call
on November
18, with over
60,000 listeners
nationwide.
HOLA hosted
three listening
parties, one
in Ashtabula
and two in
Painesville
with over 100
attendees total.
Then at a press
HOLA staffer Camilo Villa and Dolores Llamas, of Painesville,
register a voter.
At the Oct. 13th rally, making a poster with the names of people who were
placed into detention or deportation .
December 2009-January 2010
Families Decry Heavy-Handed Enforcement
H
OLA hosted a press conference
on October 28 at People’s
Missionary Baptist Church
in Ashtabula, with African American
faith leaders and members of the Latino
community to decry heavy-handed
immigration enforcement tactics that
were dividing local families. Several
residents described in painful detail
the toll that civil immigration law
enforcement has had on hard-working
families, including legal residents and
U.S. citizens. Speakers described the
damage such enforcement has done to
the community’s relationship with local
law enforcement and public safety, and
called on Congress and the President
to pass real, comprehensive
immigration
reform as soon as
possible.
For the past
year, men,
women and
18 / The HOLA Journal
even children in Ashtabula and Lake
Counties have been turned over to the
U.S. Border Patrol by police, leaving
scores of local families—including
U.S. citizen children—in distress.
The actions have not just affected
undocumented workers; legal residents
and even U.S. citizens of Hispanic origin
have also been detained and forced to
prove their legal status.
At the event, Reverend German
Womack welcomed the crowd and
opened the event with a prayer. He
told the families who are facing
separation: “We stand in unity with
you and your struggles, and support
you as you fight to remain with your
families in the United States.”
Elder Steve Sargent of Hiawatha
Church of God in Christ, and
a leader in the Ashtabula
NAACP, said: “I’m a strong
advocate for immigration
reform and I think it should be
at the forefront of the agenda for
this Administration. You can’t
treat people like animals when
they have not acted like animals.
We are going to fight all the way to
Washington to get this done.”
Joanne Dautartas, a resident of
WELCOME
Geauga County whose future son-in-
law was facing deportation, described
the heartbreak her family was facing.
Peter Dautartas, Joanne’s husband,
said: “Our country spends billions of
dollars advancing human rights in other
countries, but we turn our heads when
it comes to families right here in Ohio.
We need to restore some humanity to
our immigration laws.”
Over the past several months, the
increase in deportations has created a
crisis in the community and left scores
of families without their primary From left to right: Painesville Police Chief Gary Smith,
breadwinners. HOLA has worked for volunteer Steve Molinski, and Rev. Twon Billings are
years to build positive relationships reaching out to the Latino community in Painesville.
with local law enforcement but fears Molinksi volunteers one or two days a week through the
some agencies and some officers Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) program, started
are destroying community trust and by President George Bush. He checks on vacant houses,
alienating Latinos by attempting to helps with extra watches on certain areas, walks and
enforce civil immigration laws. “When greets people and business owners downtown, handles
members of the community lose trust in parking complaints. The three also hope to diffuse
potential school bullying or fighting issues among black,
local law enforcement, they are afraid to
white and Latino youth. Photo by Veronica Dahlberg
report crimes, and the entire community
is less safe,” HOLA executive director
Veronica Dahlberg said. “This is not
a policy that benefits public safety.
We need police to focus on fighting
crime, and we need Congress and the
President to keep their promise to pass
comprehensive immigration reform.”
December 2009-January 2010 19 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
 Discovering the Real Mexico

M
exico City designer Rodrigo relic of that period—which opened in tourism there. In May of 2009,
Flores and his assistant in 1907, and was recently renovated Mexican President Felipe Calderon
were unpacking vintage to its original glory. announced a new campaign, “Vive
Mexican treasures Mexico,” with the Secretary
in the lobby of the of Tourism (SECTUR) to
Hotel Geneve, in counteract negative images
the city’s Zona generated by the border crime
Rosa District a day crisis. Tourism is one of the
before the hotel’s most important industries in
grand opening. Mexico. Revenue generated
Strewn about were by tourists reached $13.2
boxes containing billion in 2008. The recent
colorful beaded H1N1 scare may have also
handbags, military scared some tourists away. Welcoming guests in the lobby restored to its original grandeur.
items once owned But the country successfully
by Porfirio Diaz, handled that crisis with its an atmosphere of historic charm. antiques buyer and collector.
vintage French quick and decisive response. Stepping off the lively street in Zona For two years he’s been
soaps and perfumes, The yellowed pages of Rosa into the Hotel Geneve lobby is cataloging, selling and
Ceramic hands as captured in Frida Kahlo’s deathbed
and elaborate the hotel’s original ledgers to be transported back in time. The discarding the items inside photo, and other period items relating to the artist are
ornamental hair chronicle the love Americans rooms are pristine and luxurious, with a 180-year-old Mexico City displayed in the hotel’s lobby.
combs worn by the had for travel at the turn antique flourishes, fireplaces, book mansion, abandoned when it’s
women of Mexico’s of the century: visitors cases, wood paneling. last occupant died of old age. pots in every shape, and rustic woven baskets
Roberto Slim, left, (nephew of Mexican magnate Carlos Slim), of the Oster
elite during the Group, which owns the Hotel Geneve, and Mexico City designer Rodrigo Flores. from Philadelphia, New
Designer Rodrigo Flores finished The contents of the home, mingled with elaborate Victorian tea sets,
Victorian era. The York, Berekely and Boston readying the hotel for its grand opening covered in thick dust, are candelabras and a dandy set of spats with a top
items would be were guests there. Famous party, setting up displays of vintage frozen snapshots of different hat.
ensconced in glass cases in the lobby The Hotel Geneve is just one guests included Charles Lindbergh, gowns, and other objects d’art. Many periods: very old metates for Just around the corner, past the small cafes,
and hallways of the hotel—a grand of many projects being undertaken Marlon Brando and world leaders. of the items come from his personal grinding corn were stored boutiques and taquerias, in the neighborhoods
in Mexico to revive interest Every detail was renovated to create collection, which he obtains as an under a counter, Mexican clay residential area, a young wedding party poses
Photos by Veronica Dahlberg
for pictures next to high stone walls dripping
with colorful bougainvillea. Mexico City is
layers upon layers of history. Each street—each
rock it seems—has not just one story, but many.

For travel deals to Mexico, visit

www.ofertasvivemexico.com

Designer Rodrigo Flores prepares a vintage Mexican One of the colonial-style restaurants in the hotel was awash in red light during the grand Inside a long-abandoned 180-year-old mansion in Mexico City where once treasured A dusty old set of spats and a top hat capture the fashion
Art Deco dress for a display for the grand opening. opening party for representatives of Mexico’s hotel and tourism industry. symbols of high society lay covered in dust to be unceremoniously disposed of. of the Porfirian era.

20 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010 21 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
Working Together for a Stronger Region
Team Northeast Ohio
(Team NEO) held its 3rd annual
State of the Region meeting on
September 24th at the Skyline
Hotel in Independence, Ohio.
The event raised awareness
of some positive successes in
the 16-county Northeast Ohio
region. Over 200 business
and community leaders heard
presentations by the mayors of
Akron, Canton, Youngstown and
Cleveland. Several businesses
were also recognized for bringing
jobs and innovation to the region.
The meeting was hosted by Chris
Conner, Chairman and CEO of
the Sherwin Williams Company, At the State of the Region meeting: From left to right, Akron Mayor Don Plusquelic; Canton Mayor
Bill J. Healy II; Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams; and Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
and moderated by Thomas A. Photo by Veronica Dahlberg
Waltermire, CEO of Team NEO.
For more information about the Team NEO business attraction network, visit
www.clevelandplusbusiness.com

22 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010 23 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
Langston Hughes (1902-1967):
A Cleveland to Mexico Connection
The broken-down house at 2266 E.
86th street is just one of thousands of
abandoned and foreclosed homes in
Cleveland. But during a sheriff’s sale
in February of 2009, people began
to discover the historic significance
of this hidden treasure and its place
in the history of the Harlem Renais-
sance. It is here where, in a small
attic room, Langston Hughes, the
acclaimed African American, writer,
poet, and playwright lived alone
during his junior and senior years at
Central High School, from 1917
to 1919. His mother and stepfather
had gone to Chicago to find work.
But perhaps even more obscured
than Hughes’ significant history in
Cleveland, is Hughes’ history in
Mexico. Langston Hughes’ father had
moved to Toluca, Mexico, to escape
overwhelming racism in the U.S.,
and had lived as a successful factory
owner there. During his Central High
School years, Hughes
went to Mexico to
visit him on at
least two occa-
sions. It was
during one of
those train
rides from
Cleveland
to Mex-
ico that
Hughes
wrote one
of his most
famous
poems,
“Negro
Speaks of
Rivers.” In
fact, the young
Hughes lived in
Mexico for a year after
graduating from high school
and returned there several times,
writing of Mexican life for a number
24 / The HOLA Journal
age of a minority group, when minority groups
were not portrayed in that way.”
The effort to publish Hughes’ long-lost
manuscript has not only been a labor of love for
the Daileys, but also a way to bring attention to
of publications. But it Hughes’ international scope and influence.
wasn’t until 2001 that “Although considerable attention has been fo-
African American stud- cused in recent years on the role Hughes played
ies scholar Dr. Maceo in twentieth-century American literature, virtu-
Dailey discovered the ally no interest has been directed toward his
existence of an unpub-
lished book manuscript
entitled “Boy of the
“He was very aware of
Border,” found amongst portraying a realistic
Hughes’ papers stored and positive image of a
at the Beinecke Rare
Book and Manuscript minority group”
Library at Yale Univer- Langston Hughes’ former home at 2266 E. 86th St., in Cleveland, which was
sold at a sheriff’s sale in February. Hughes left from here several times to visit
sity. Dailey, director
influence in the broader sphere of international Mexico. Image reprinted with permission from Christopher Busta-Peck.
of African Americans www.clevelandhistoy.blogspot.com.
Studies at the University black literature,” Dr. Dailey said. “The purpose
of Texas at El Paso, and of this book is to bring his writings on the His- the Hispanic world than in the country of his birth.”
his wife Sondra Banfield panic world and Haiti together with an essay Hughes died in 1967 from cancer, at the age of 65. But his
Dailey launched Sweet tracing his influence and literary contacts in the important legacy continues to enlighten and civilize humanity
Earth Flying Press and Spanish-speaking world and the Caribbean.... around the world.
obtained permission to it is ironic that at the time [a few month after Boy of the Border is available by contacting Sweet Earth Flying
publish the manuscript. Hughes’ death] he was more widely known in Press LLC. www.sweetearthflyingpress.com
Like his boyhood
home in Cleveland,
“Boy of the Bor-
der” was a
rare find. It
was writ-
ten as a children’s I think that’s something most people
book between don’t know.” The book is about a
1939 and 1941 12-year-old Mexican boy, Miguel Del
as Hughes way Monte, who herds wild broncos from
of capturing Mexico to Los Angeles during the
his love for the Mexican Revolution. Banfield Dailey
Mexican people studied Hughes’ letters and papers
associated with the original
Langston Hughes, ca. 1924 manuscript, which Hughes
Image reprinted with permis- wrote in partnership with
sion from Yale Collection of
his friend, Arna Bontemps,
American Literature, Beinecke
Rare Book and Manuscript another highly regarded poet
Library. and novelist of the Harlem
Renaissance. “When he put
together the outline of the
and culture. “It was book, the protagonist and his fam-
exciting to find the book,” ily were peasants,” Banfield Dailey
Banfield Dailey said. “It has explains, “But Langston said No,
all the elements of Mexican life. I don’t make them peasants, that’s so
just love the multi-cultural aspect of stereotypical. He was very aware of
it. He really had a love for Mexico. portraying a realistic and positive im-
December 2009-January 2010 25 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
 Youngstown Girl Dreams of Stardom
C
atalina Labra Hernandez was
so overcome with emotion
that she couldn’t speak when
she received a phone call on August
20 from Sabado Gigante, a popular
TV variety show. “I recognized the
number on the caller ID and had to
hand the phone to my
son,” Labra Her-
nandez said. It
was a producer
calling to tell
Catalina that
her daugh-
ter was a
finalist for
a youth tal-
ent compe-
tition. They
needed to
be in Miami
for a rehears-
al and taping
in two days.
Her appearance
on Sabado Gigante
was no small accom-
plishment for a young girl from
Yougstown, Ohio.
Karen Eaz Labra, 12, is a student at
Austintown Middle School, in the
Youngstown area, and has been sing-
ing since she was six years old. An
aunt had submitted a tape of Karen
to the show for a singing contest.
Karen was one of three finalists out
of 2000 entries. “I was really, really
excited. As soon as I heard the call I
started to cry,” Karen said. Her three
older brothers, ages 22, 20 and 19,
quickly pooled their money together
to cover the expenses for the trip,
which included plane fares and hotel
fees. Catalina, a single parent, had
been laid off from her factory job
since January, where she worked the
midnight shift for five years making
auto parts.
Karen was born in Nayarit, Mexico,
and came to Ohio when she was
three years old. Back in Mexico,
26 / The HOLA Journal
the news of the phone
call spread quickly. “My
grandfather used to be in
a band in Mexico and he
never thought he would
have a grandchild on a
TV show,” Karen said.
She never had any
formal teaching or a
music instructor.
“I watched my
cousin Adrian
sing ‘Como
Quien Pierde
Una Estrella’
by Alejandro
Fernández
and I really
liked how
he sang it
so I learned
how to sing
it,” Karen said.
She practiced
performing in
Youngstown-area
Mexican restaurants.
“After that, I sang for my
brother’s birthdays, and
quinceañeras, festivals,”
she said.
In the Mexican fiesta cir-
cuit, word spread of this
talented young singer,
thanks to the help of her
uncle, Armando Labra, an
advocate in the local La-
tino community. In 2006,
she was invited to Chi-
cago to sing for a regional
Mexican fiesta. Though
her repertoire includes
mainly Mexican stan-
dards, her middle school
friends make requests too.
“The song they always
want me to sing is I will
Always Love You by
Whitney Houston,” Karen
said. “They’ve never
really heard mariachi ex-
Big Turnout at HOLA’s 1st Annual
Literacy Day
cept when they come to my house. They like
it, it’s just that they’re not really used to it, so
I try to teach them.” in Beechwood.
Karen enjoyed her first plane ride ever to Recognizing that every home should Several cases
Miami and competed for the show on Sabado be filled with books, HOLA hosted of new books
Gigante which aired September 12. Though its first ever Literacy Day on August in English and
she did not win the contest, she knows that it 5, 2009. Over 68 children and their Spanish were
will open doors for her and possibly launch parents registered to participate in also provided
her career. “I tried to pretend I was famous reading circles, and receive free books by the Mexican
and stuff. It was my dream,” Karen said. “My and prizes. Parents in attendance Consulate in
hope is to go to college and become a singer listened to a presentation on the Detroit, through
and my dream is to have a humongous house importance of literacy and reading to their literacy
and my whole entire family living together.” your children. Hundreds of children’s program.
books were donated by members of Volunteers helped Volunteers from left to right: Gladys Figueroa Stec, Maribel Figueroa,
the Fairmount Temple Anshe Chesed sort the books into Jeanne Rich and Lydia Ortega.
age-appropriate
categories, and
children were
allowed to choose
the books that
appealed to them.
If you would
like to donate
used children’s
books in good
condition, or help
us by organizing
a book drive for Parents listen to a presentation by Jennifer Williams of Painesville City
children’s books, Schools, on simple ways to encourage reading in their children.
please contact
HOLA at (440)
964 - 3372. We are and volunteers to continue this important program. Photos
Future leaders: Loaded up with books and looking for books by Veronica Dahlberg
ready to go!
Karen Eaz Labra,12, was one of three finalists in a singing
competition airing September 12 on Sabado Giagnte.
Photos courtesy of Labra family. Volunteer Carol Darr reads to a group of children. Volunteer Nora Kancelbaum reads to the children.
December 2009-January 2010 27 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
Immigrant Contributions Boost Economy
Local Authors Say
By Camilo J. Villa
In their book Immigrant, Inc.,
Cleveland based immigration at-
torney Richard Herman and Plain
Dealer reporter Robert Smith
discuss the contribution that immi-
grants make to the economy of the
United States, and to society in gen-
eral. Herman was motivated to write
this book from a lifelong interaction
and experience with immigrants: he
lived in Russia, works with immi-
grants every day in his law practice,
and is married to an immigrant from
Taiwan. In his life and work, Her-
man said, “I saw something special
in the immigrant spirit and work
ethic, sense of family, and commit-
ment to thrift, which is certainly
something that America needed.”
Herman, and Smith, who is also
28 / The HOLA Journal
Fun, Food and Music at Fundraiser
O
n June 1, Miles, an alpaca, greeted Owner Debbie Sistek and staff
guests at HOLA’s fundraiser at at Luisa’s Mexican Grill served
Luisa’s Mexican Grill, in Geneva, up a dazzling array of delicious
married to an immigrant, Ohio. Over 80 people attended to hear home cooked dishes buffet-
decided to embark on a ratio- keynote speaker Connie Schultz, HOLA’s style including several different
nal and calm examination of guest of honor, and to support HOLA’s salsas, guacamole, beef and
mission. Schultz is a Pulitzer-prize win- chicken fajitas, chorizo and
the impact of immigration on
ning columnist for the Cleveland Plain quesadillas, and much more.
the United States, far from the Dealer. She surprised everyone when her Guests were entertained by the
emotional diatribes of pundits husband, US Senator Sherrod Brown, ac- talented Mary Taylor-Brooks, a
such as Lou Dobbs. Herman companied her to the event. Schultz spoke singer/songwriter from Mentor,
says they found that, as a coun- about the need for people to inform them- Ohio. Taylor-Brooks wrote an
try, America is not welcoming selves of current issues and a responsibili- original song just for the event,
to new immigrants, regardless ty to speak out against injustices whenever capturing the hard economic
of their legal status. With so they can. She also spoke of the growing times and the need to support HOLA Board President Gladys Figueroa and guest of honor
much focus and anger centered angry tone in American discourse, and people in need. Taylor-Brooks Connie Schultz
on the idea that immigrants asked that people not be afraid to add their and her musicians wowed the
comments when they read newspapers crowd with their passionate and
take American jobs, the fact is to all who took time from their busy schedules to
online. Both Connie Schultz and Sen. heart-felt performance. Incred- attend the fundraiser. The money that was raised went
immigration across the board is Sherrod Brown graciously spent time talk- ible to have such talent locally! towards publishing costs for The HOLA Journal.
an economic stimulus. Herman ing to attendees afterwards and had dinner Chuck Von Hof, president
points out that many of the Gracias!
with everyone. of the Lake County Nursery
major companies in the United Growers Associa-
States that employ thousands tion, donated potted
of people across the country, roses to raffle, and
were founded by immigrants: Richard Herman(seated) and Robert Smith, authors of Galeria Quetzal in
Immigrant Inc. Photo courtesy of Richard Herman. Cleveland donated
Google, Intel, and eBay, to
name just a few. a Mexican wall
hanging. Thanks
According to Herman, reform. “If you’re undocumented
also to John Nied-
the best way for the Unit- you have a huge liability from day
zialek for donating
ed States to recover from one. You have all these barriers. You sports tickets, and
economic downturn is to can’t legally get a job, higher educa- to HOLA Board
become more welcoming tion, borrow money... That’s why we member Lynn Tra-
of immigrants. “We need, need at minimum the DREAM act.” monte for donating
as a society, to change Regardless of legal status, immigrants a margarita basket.
US Senator Sherrod Brown with Lydia Ortega and
our idea of what it means share the value of wanting to succeed Gladys Figueroa
HOLA is grateful
to be an immigrant,” Her- in the United States. Herman likes to
man said. “What images tell the story of Dan Arvizu, Direc-
come to mind when we tor of the U.S. National Renewable From left to right: Janet Switzer, State Rep. Debbie
think immigrant? Crime, Energy Laboratory, whose parents Newcomb, and Susan Allhouse
illegality, disease. Instead were undocumented immigrants from
we need to look at what Mexico. His father was sworn in as
immigrants really bring a citizen on a navy boat heading to
to the country: motiva- the Philippines, after volunteering for
tion, ingenuity, entrepre- World War II.
neurship, and a strong be- The bottom line, according to
lief that America really is Herman and Smith, is that instead of
the land of opportunity.” ostracizing immigrants, and seeking
And what about to reduce the flow, the United States
undocumented immi- should welcome them, encourage
grants? They are the immigration, and, in the words of
perfect example of why Google Senior Adviser Omid From left to right: Rev. German Womack, People’s Baptist Church, a Mary Taylor-Brooks and musicians performed a first-rate set of
Herman believes we Kordestani, an immigrant from Iran, guest, George Wilson, Ashtabula NAACP, Pastor Steve Sargent, Hiawatha original music.
need real immigration learn to “Think like an immigrant.” Church of God, Gene Turner, AFL-CIO Retirees Council. Photos by Veronica Dahlberg
December 2009-January 2010 29 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010
 Is “Illegals” a Dehumanizing Term?
During the president’s now
infamous healthcare speech, the
country expressed shock and
disapproval at South Carolina
Congressman Joe Wilson’s loud
outburst when he shouted “You
lie!” But Latinos nationwide were
shocked at something else during
the speech: the president used the
term “illegal immigrant.” As a
presidential candidate, Obama had
always used the term preferred by
most Hispanics, “undocumented
immigrant.”
As the debate heats up over
healthcare and immigration
reform, the National Association
of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ)
has re-issued its call for media to
stop using the term “illegal” or
“illegals,” which it denounces as
offensive and dehumanizing.
In order to shed more light on
the issue, HOLA Journal editor
Veronica Dahlberg moderated a
panel discussion on the topic at
an event organized by the Society
of Professional Journalists (SPJ)
Cleveland Pro Chapter. Dahlberg was Leopold said. “In the vast majority of Communication and Theatre Arts.
recently elected to the SPJ Cleveland
Pro Chapter.
The panel discussion held on
Statement from the National Association of Hispanic Journalists
“We continue to see ‘illegals’
used as a noun seeping from
the fringes into the mainstream
media, and in turn, into the
mainstream political dialogue,”
said NAHJ Executive Director
Iván Román. “Using these terms
not only distorts the debate, but
it takes away their identities as
individuals and human beings.
30 / The HOLA Journal
From left to right: Dr. John Flores, professor at Case Western Reserve University; David Leopold,
president of the American Immigration Lawyers Assn; Robert Smith, Journalist for the Cleveland
Plain Dealer, and Julia Preston, national immigration correspondent for the New York Times.
Photo by Veronica Dahlberg.
September 29, featured Julia Preston, as “illegal” dehumanizes them and
national immigration correspondent
for the New York Times, Robert
Smith, veteran journalist of the
Cleveland Plain Dealer and David
Leopold, president of the American
Immigration Lawyers Association.
“Simply put, the term “illegal alien”
has no basis in the law,” David
cases it is not a crime to be in the US
without proper documentation. To
describe undocumented immigrants
When journalists do that, it’s that
much easier to treat them unfairly
and not give them an equal voice in
the controversy.”
NAHJ prefers using the term
“undocumented immigrant” or
“undocumented worker” rather than
the term “illegal immigrant” which
several media outlets have adopted.
As the U.S. tackles immigration
feeds into the propaganda of the anti-
immigrant restrictionists whose goal
is to spread hatred and fear rather
than offer real solutions to fix our
broken immigration system.”
The panel discussion was held at
John Carroll University in partnership
with the Tim Russert Department of
SPJ is “dedicated to the perpetuation
of a free press as the cornerstone of
our nation and our liberty.”
reform in the future, NAHJ
believes that responsible, fair,
and non-simplistic coverage of
this complex issue is in order.
The words used can be part of
the problem or can contribute to
fair coverage and a fruitful public
debate. For more information visit
www.nahj.org
December 2009-January 2010
Join HOLA!
HOLA is working on several community projects.
Whether you speak English or Spanish or both,
Help Wanted
there are many ways to get involved! Our doors
RELATIONSHIP MANAGER are always open during office hours for visitors
(LOAN REPRESENTATIVES) or for more information about volunteer oppor-
We are looking for a flexible, hardworking tunities or the work that we do.
professional dedicated to customer service. This
individual will be assigned to the PAINESVILLE, Our office is located at:
OHIO branch to develop and use skills to as a
Loan Representative/ Relationship
Manager to serve the community financial needs. Victoria Place on the Park
Suite 200
You will go through our comprehensive training Painesville, OH 44077
program to learn Dollar Bank products, services
and systems.
Office hours:
Successful candidates will be fluent in Spanish Monday and Thursday 11-4
and English, and share our excellence in Tuesday 12-7
customer service philosophy.
Candidates must have demonstrated exceptional Mail can be sent to:
leadership, communication, and problem solving
PO Box 3066
skills with strength in building relationships.
Ashtabula, Ohio 44005-3066
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
♦ Fluent in Spanish and English
Or visit our website at
www.holatoday.org
♦ Knowledge of Lake County and sur- or call 440-964-3372
rounding areas
♦ Demonstrated ability and desire to consis-
tently deliver quality customer service.
Send a...
♦ Experience and demonstrate success in Visit us online at
GIFT
producing results through effective rela- www.holatoday.org SUBSCRIPTION of
tionship building and by delivering quality
customer service. The HOLA Journal
440.964.3372 to a FRIEND!
♦ Demonstrated creativity, resourcefulness,
and self-motivation in producing results.
♦ Excellent oral and written communication
♦
skills.
Prior sales experience preferred.
got something to SELL?
Dollar Bank Is An Equal Opportunity If you would like to advertise your services, HOLA is
Employer now offering classified ad space.
Looking for employees? Try placing a classified ad. All ads
ADVERTISE appear in both the English and the Spanish versions of the
HOLA Journal. Your ad will be translated for free!
The Rates are $10 per line, with a minimum of three lines.
Journal
Contact HOLA at 440.964.3372.
CALL FOR RATES! (440) 964-3372
31 / The HOLA Journal December 2009-January 2010