Cafecito Networking Nights began the first of four editions for 2020, Monday, February 9th with a great turnout and several new faces that we hope to see from time to time in the Greater Lansing community.
About 30 people gathered at El Azteco West for an evening of learning some of the “who is who” in the Latino community along with what’s happening. We were introduced to a new organization called Capital Area National Association of Hispanic Nurses by Debbie Moreno who is a Registered Nurse at Sparrow Hospital. Many of us look forward to engaging with your organization going forward.
We were joined by Brandon Waddell who is running for Ingham County Circuit Court Judge in November. With Judge Lawless retiring, Ingham County needs a young individual who will serve with justice and compassion but who is also experienced. In my humble opinion, Brandon Waddell is that person. Thanks for spending some time with us Brandon!
We met Iovani Lopez from Astera Credit Union. Keep on eye on this one as he is looking to sincerely become more involved in the community. Perhaps with the developing Business Association. A true professional, one conversation with him and you can seen the passion he has for building relationships.
Carlos Castillo also joined us from Grand Rapids although he works in Lansing. A Veteran Services Specialist at Peckham, he also is looking for ways to connect with organizations and individuals in the community. The term “underserved community” is often used in this world. Carlos serves a community that gave so much, and yet for many, are still searching for their place in life. I look forward to seeing you around Carlos!
Erick Pardo joined us from Shaheen Chevrolet. I met Erick back when there was a Lansing Area Hispanic Business Association as he was big part of the foundation of it. He was “youngin” back then and smoothly fit in with an older generation while building a cornerstone organization for the Hispanic/Latino business community. Today, his wisdom is priceless. Thank you for dropping by Erick!
Casa de Rosado opens National Reading Month this Saturday, March 7th from 1pm to 2pm with a reading of La Frontera. It’s a children’s reading hour followed by a make-n-take craft! Suggested ages 3-8. So much going on at Casa Rosado for all ages. Great idea Theresa Rosado!
Daniel Ferreyra spoke a few words regarding what he does but also the importance of relationships. He showed up at Sundance Chevrolet and was named Salesman of the Month his very first month and that was no surprise to those of us who know him. It was great seeing you Daniel!
One point I would like to make here is that just because you don’t share interests with the people you meet in your day to day life, it doesn’t mean you can’t either provide value to them or vice versa. The connections they have, might even provide you with that one connection that lifts your business to a new level, provides you with a new job, or even better, gives you a life long friend. Networking. It might not be what you believe it to be.
I hope you will join us for the next one as we move to a new location on Monday, May 4, 2020. Much thanks to everyone that dropped by. Cafecito Caliente has had some success with this and without you “showing up” we have nothing.
