These are only some of the photos taken by Jim Villarreal of “24 Seven Images” to whom I am eternally grateful. 25 years from now, we will have his images to reminisce and show our kids, grandchildren and perhaps a Latino community that might be looking for inspiration in 2050.
Without our sponsors, Title Sponsor Feldman Chevrolet of Lansing (who by the way received the Cafecito Community Partner of the Year Award), Platinum Sponsor Michigan Hispanic Chamber, Gold Sponsor Davenport University and the Lansing Lugnuts supporting and believing in this evening, the evening would not have happened. A community thanks all of you and Cafecito looks to build on these relationships going forward.
The people the Cafecito Caliente Awards recognized are beautiful, inspiring and role models for anything we hope to achieve. Whether in business, family, career, or relationships, they all provide a glimpse of what success looks like to them and can look like to us. One by one, they lifted us up with their stories and each will continue to do so going forward.
The 2023 Cafecito Caliente Awards were to use an overused word: “Magical”. We, the community, different generations came together to recognize so many wonderful individuals for being who they are. There are so many stories here to tell. Events 2 Envy by Sonia provided the vision for the atmosphere. As the event planner, she guided us throughout the process until well after the event was over. The beauty that she provided was gorgeous.
Private Chef Ricky Lugo and his “Little Authentico” team offered up a beautiful and very delicious meal. From Day 1, he believed in himself and asked me to trust him with his selection for the evening. After dinner, the old cliche, “give our compliments to the chef” was on many people’s minds. Fabulous job Ricky.
Lorenzo Lopez, our Master of Ceremonies was amazing in providing insight on creating a slightly upscale evening. He kept us on course and directed the flow of the night and then performed beautifully with Yesenia Murillo. The value you have brought to our community in all that you do is priceless.
Aleida Martinez Flores our keynote speaker spoke of her journey to Michigan State University as went against her families wishes and left home in South Texas. Through her struggles she found strength, a college degree and now works at the MSU Migrant Camp Program inspiring young minds that face many of the same obstacles she faced.
Norma Patricia Serna and her voice. So many of us have adored her voice for years and she didn’t disappoint as many of us were breathless after she finished singing. She is truly Blessed and we were fortunate to have her come in for us.
My Cafecito Caliente team of Lupe L Dominguez, Josefina Dominguez, Tammy Corina Salazar, Antonella Benavides, Benjamin Benavides, Carmen Loredo present or not, were with me. I thank you all for being you. None of this happens without you by my side the last few years.
I have to extend a big shout out to the Lansing Lugnuts for providing the facilities but also for their staff. They were everywhere we needed them to be and super friendly every step of the way. “The View” available for private parties, conferences, and workshops. When the Lugnuts start play, the doors can be opened to include the game into your private party.
Lastly, for those that know me, you know I struggle with compliments or even being in front. Apparently, I have been Blessed with vision, compassion and empathy. I will honestly admit this, I knew when I walked in, we, our team for the Awards were going to be successful in lifting up a community. The people who received the awards, the entertainment and our keynote speaker lifted us even higher. Thank you all and I look forward to Cafecito’s next steps for the Hispanic Latino community and hope many of you will join me in those spaces.
