“I had never been to a conference,” said SVSU student Julia Sausedo, after she joined classmate Gabriella Olivarez to take part in the annual meeting of the U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute in Chicago, with sponsorship from Latino Leaders for the Enhancement of Advocacy and Development.

Julia noted, “There were leaders there from all over the world, and it was an honor to be exposed to their knowledge and experience.”

The gathering drew 5,000 students, educators and young professionals from 35 states.

Olivarez and Sausedo both started at Delta College before they transferred to Saginaw Valley State. They took part in Delta’s Society of Hispanic Leaders student group under advisor Monica Hernandez, and LLEAD’s Angelo Kapp visited to bring forth the opportunity.

“In middle school and high school, I often felt alone,” notes Gabriella, as a Latino involved in student activities, “and so when you learn that there is something available that is for Hispanics, it gets your attention quickly.”

Kapp is a Northwood University business major who expressed similar sentiments, saying he often has found himself “as the only one who looks like me.” His new enterprise, “Nuestra Cultura Multimedia Productions,” aims to promote “building a future for our children.”

Olivarez attended Carrollton High School on Saginaw’s city border, and Sausedo is a product of Bangor John Glenn High in western Bay County, which happens to be the alma mater of Alberto Flores, state LLEAD president. Both students started at Delta College and transferred to Saginaw Valley State, a most affordable local start to higher education.

It wasn’t a LLEAD giveaway. Sausedo and Olivarez faced a requirement to earn their way to four days at the Sheraton Chicago, through extracurricular time and effort devoted to campus activities. Part of this involved listening to their student peers on general concerns such as education, careers and the overall future, along with Latino-oriented specifics like DACA and immigration, and politics.

Workshops explored those topics and others, from first-generation success and enhancing your roots to mental health and community organizing.

A conference promo stated: “Most of the participants are, or will become, the most influential Hispanic leaders of their generation,” adding that they “will help govern our cities, schools, states, and indeed, a nation that will become over 30 percent Hispanic during our lifetimes.”

Neither Sausedo nor Olivarez describe themselves as especially outgoing or outspoken, so they spent most of their time listening. Julia aims for a career in social work, while Gabriella will be a citizen activist while engaged in rehabilitative medicine as an occupational therapist.

Saginaw LLEAD meets on the second monthly Thursday at 6 p.m. at the downtown Delta College campus, and the next session is Dec. 12. There is no membership fee and participants may volunteer in their chosen areas of interest.

A fund-raiser is Dec. 14 at T&T Authentic Mexican, 1302 Court, with proceeds of $5 for every taco dinner donated to LLEAD to help send students to the 2025 conference.

Sausedo learned, “It’s important to hear other people’s stories,” while Olivarez looks forward “to making a place at the table, instead of in the back of the room.”

The post Saginaw LLEAD brings young recruits to the table appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

The yearlong renovation is finished. Leaders of the MAC Center will aim to show off not only the restored 150-year-old home at 1537 South Washington, but also a sampling of community activities that will commence, especially geared to young people and to education, which includes culture along with career planning.

When Saginaw’s $52 million ARPA federal grant arrived three years ago, MAC applied for a $250,000 share for programming. Council members, seeking inroads toward Latino inclusion, added another quarter million dollars to rehab the 5,000-square-foot mini-mansion, which formerly was the Catholic bishop’s residence in the upper-scale Grove area between Hoyt Park and Ojibway Island.

City Hall eventually took ownership  when former Bishop Ken Untener opted for a traveling residency as various parish rectories. Former Councilman Daniel Soza Jr. won support in 2005 to donate the home to the Mexican American Council.

As with several ARPA infrastructure projects, cost overruns entered the picture, especially with the MAC Center, which already was in a state of neglect when obtained 19 years ago. This absorbed the entire original $500,000, along with an added $120,000, taking the funds that had been intended for programming, and now MAC must rely on volunteer teachers and mentors while seeking other grants for operations and activities.

Therefore, the Nov. 22 hours from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. will serve not only as a showcase, but as a recruitment tool for anyone interested in getting involved.

Treats for children of all ages will include Mexican sweet bread. Vendors of traditional food favorites and various holiday items also will be on hand, and live music also is on the agenda, weather permitting.

The post MAC makeover showcased during Heart of the City appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

Guests are welcome to contribute to the community altar by adding photos of their deceased loved ones. On October 19, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., visitors can bring a 4×6 photo of a friend or family member to SAM, where they will have the opportunity to decorate a matte frame with materials like tissue paper, paint, and marigolds. These photos will be displayed on the community altar from November 2 through November 9, alongside other ofrendas. Participants can retrieve their photos between November 13 and November 16 during museum hours.

The Dia de los Muertos event will feature traditional elements, including face painting, art-making activities, and educational videos on the holiday’s significance. Maria’s Food Truck will be on-site from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., offering a taste of Mexican cuisine to complement the celebration.

The event is free and open to the public, thanks to support from local sponsors such as Hemlock Semiconductor, Dow, Huntington Bank, and others. SAM also extends special thanks to Latino Leaders for the Enhancement of Advocacy and Development (LLEAD) and Maria’s Mexican Restaurant for their contributions.

For those interested in immersing themselves in the rich cultural traditions of Dia de los Muertos, this event offers a chance to honor loved ones and celebrate with the community. SAM’s ofrendas will remain on display until November 9, allowing visitors additional time to experience this heartfelt tribute.

For more details, visit the Saginaw Art Museum’s website or call the museum directly.

The post Saginaw Art Museum to host Dia de los Muertos celebration appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

The directory will highlight the diverse contributions of Mexican American businesses and organizations in Saginaw, promoting cultural heritage and economic growth. As a vital community resource, the Mexican American Council has consistently worked to foster unity and provide educational support. This directory will further their mission by connecting local businesses and residents.

Businesses and organizations interested in being featured are encouraged to submit their information for inclusion. For those who need assistance with the process, the Council offers support to ensure everyone can participate, regardless of technical skills.

To be added to the directory, visit mexicanamericancouncil.org and fill out the directory form. This project reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to empowering the Mexican American community in Saginaw by providing platforms that enhance cultural preservation and facilitate personal and professional development.

For more information, contact the Mexican American Council through their website or follow their social media for updates on this initiative.

The post Mexican American Council seeks Saginaw businesses for new directory appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

The event will feature a panel of experts, including:

• Noah Harden, SVP, National Wealth Planning Manager at Comerica Bank
• Robert Buchanan, ASA, CFP®, SVP, National Practice Leader, Business Transition Planning at Comerica Bank
• Jack Maier, SR Managing Director
• Kelly M. Burnell, Member and Co-chair of Bodman’s High Net Worth Practice Group

The webinar will delve into the intricacies of business transitions, providing valuable insights into the planning and execution required for a successful handover. Topics will likely include succession planning, valuation, legal considerations, and tax implications.

Business transitions are complex and require careful consideration. This webinar offers a valuable opportunity for business owners to gain expert knowledge and guidance on this critical aspect of business management.

Registration

The webinar is free to attend, and registration can be completed through the provided ZOOM link. For more information, interested parties can contact Igeftos@mhcc.org.

Key Takeaways:

• Business transitions necessitate meticulous planning and execution.
• Expert guidance is crucial for navigating the complexities of business transitions.
• The webinar offers a platform for business owners to gain valuable insights into successful transitions.
• The event is free to attend, and registration is open.

The Business Transition Webinar hosted by Adelante Michigan, the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Comerica Bank promises to be an informative and insightful event for business owners seeking to secure the future of their enterprises. 

The post Adelante Michigan, Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Comerica Bank host business transition webinar appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

Vice President Harris’ new proposals, unveiled earlier this week, include a significant expansion of tax relief for new small businesses and a commitment to cutting red tape that hinders entrepreneurship. Harris aims to stimulate the creation of 25 million new small business applications during her first term, supporting what she calls “the backbone of our economy.”

Key to Harris’ plan is a tenfold increase in the startup expense deduction for small businesses—from $5,000 to $50,000—a move that Saginaw City Councilwoman Priscilla Garcia emphasized would be transformative for local entrepreneurs.

“Kamala Harris knows that entrepreneurs often face financial hurdles that prevent them from getting their businesses off the ground,” Garcia said. “Her plan to expand the startup deduction will provide a massive boost to Michigan entrepreneurs. In contrast, Donald Trump’s Project 2025 prioritizes tax handouts to billionaires and large corporations at the expense of small businesses and working people. Independent economists have made it clear that his plan would raise costs on middle-class families by $4,000 a year.”

Maria Gomez, owner of Maria’s Mexican Restaurant, echoed Garcia’s sentiments, pointing to Harris’ commitment to offering new federal support, reducing regulatory barriers, and expanding access to affordable loans.

“Under Trump, small businesses like mine were left behind. His tax policies favored big corporations, while entrepreneurs struggled. With Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, we have leaders who are genuinely fighting for small businesses, including Latino-owned ones like mine,” Gomez said.

Armando Ramos, owner of Tony’s Takeout, expressed strong support for Harris’ plan, highlighting its focus on underserved communities like Saginaw.

“Harris’ agenda will direct one-third of federal contract dollars toward small businesses, especially in rural and underserved areas,” Ramos said. “Meanwhile, Donald Trump’s plan would have people like me paying more in taxes than the wealthiest Americans. He has never missed a chance to help his billionaire friends at the expense of the little guy.”

The press conference underscored the importance of policies that support small businesses in communities across Michigan and beyond. As the 2024 election approaches, the differences between the two candidates’ economic plans will be a key issue for small business owners.

The post Saginaw leaders and Latino business owners emphasize Harris’ support for small businesses over Trump’s Project 2025 appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

Options for the name are:

• “La Red” (The Network).
• “Abrazos y Besos” (Hugs and Kisses).
• “Relacion” (Connection, Relationship).
•  “El Camino” (The Way).

The choices all focus on a common theme, which is that for Latinos, cultural and language challenges remain in attending college, especially when an enrollee is the first in family history to pursue higher education.

Students will have a chance for their say-so at the next meeting at 5 p.m. on Oct. 24, which is a Thursday, at Delta’s downtown center.

President Michael Gavin, in his third year at Delta, convened an Aug. 29 session with more than 30 people, including local Latino community leaders.

“There will be some bumps along the road,” Gavin told the group, “and we are going to learn from one another. I don’t want this to be just a one-year thing.”

Among Delta’s 7,600 pupils, both Latinos and Blacks each comprise a fraction less than 10 percent, with increases attained during recent years.

More progress is the aim of the outreach. Statewide free tuition for community colleges is beginning to take effect. Many Latino prospects still could benefit from help with other expenses, but the main need is cultural confidence to move ahead, participants said.

The task already is tough because nearly three quarters of Delta enrollees of all ethnic groups are part-time and live at home, instead of full-time and residing in dormitories.

For one example to support the project, current Latino pupils will serve as mentors to newcomers. Information is available from Delta’s Office of Multicultural Services, (989) 686-9117, diversity@delta.edu.

The post Push to boost Delta enrollment gets started appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

This novel, a Good Morning America Book Club pick, sheds light on the often unseen labor and sacrifices of women within their families and society. Thanks to a generous grant from YWCA USA, registered participants will receive a free copy of the book delivered to their homes. To receive a free copy, registration must be completed by September 27. Those who already own the book can register by October 11 to ensure their spot at the event.

The book club meeting will take place on Thursday, October 24, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the YWCA GLBR’s office located at 205 6th Street, Bay City. Attendees can expect light refreshments, door prizes, and an engaging discussion about “Dominicana”.

For more information or to register, interested individuals can contact the YWCA GLBR at 989-894-9055. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with others and delve into a powerful story about identity, resilience, and the immigrant experience.

The post YWCA Great Lakes Bay Region to host book club featuring ‘Dominicana’ appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Currently reside in Michigan
• Be enrolled in a Michigan High School, College/University, or Technical Program
• Submit all required documents and application materials by the deadline

The deadline to apply is August 30th at 12 PM.

Interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The application can be found at https://bit.ly/NuestroFuturoScholarship.

The “Nuestro Futuro” Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for Hispanic/Latino students in Michigan to receive financial assistance for their education. The Commission is proud to support the educational aspirations of these students and invest in their future success.

The post Hispanic/Latino Commission of Michigan announces “Nuestro Futuro” scholarship appeared first on The Michigan Banner.

A central feature of the celebration will be the display of ofrendas, or altars, created by community members. These colorful and meaningful displays typically incorporate photographs, candles, flowers, food, and other personal mementos to honor the departed.

Those interested in creating and displaying an ofrenda are encouraged to apply soon. Applications can be submitted online via the museum’s website or picked up in person at the museum. The deadline to apply is fast approaching, with notifications of acceptance going out on September 25th.

Due to limited space, not all applications may be accepted. However, a community altar will be available for anyone wishing to contribute smaller offerings or mementos in remembrance of their loved ones.

The ofrendas will remain on display at the museum for a week following the opening day, allowing visitors ample time to experience this beautiful and culturally significant tradition.

For more information on the Dia de los Muertos event or the ofrenda application process, please visit the Saginaw Art Museum & Gardens website or contact the museum directly.

The post Saginaw Art Museum to Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with Community Ofrendas appeared first on The Michigan Banner.