May 30, 2007

10th Annual Fiesta a Huge Success

No one quite expected the phenomenal turnout of the 10th annual Fiesta Dinner that took place last Thursday, May 17, which included the attendance of prominent public figures such as Cicero Town President Larry Dominick and Cook County Commissioner Roberto Maldonado. 

The Hispanic Business Association of the Cicero Chamber of Commerce hosted this event at Bocadillos Restaurant on the 6700 block of West Ogden Avenue in honor of five individuals within Cicero who have made significant contributions to the community. 

The event kicked-off with opening remarks by board members of the Chamber of Commerce such as board president Dr. Mitchell Weiss. Prior to the presentation of awards, keynote speaker Tsi-Tsi-Ki Felix of Telemundo addressed the audience, expressing her excitement, interest, and support for the booming Hispanic-American population that, according to her sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, continues to rise in prominence, political clout, and buying power.

Presentation of the awards was an even emotional event for recipients, who accepted their honors with much gratitude, humbleness, and even tears of joy.  Those awarded included Magda Favale (Community and Economic Development Association), Dr. Arturo Lema (Su Salud Medical Center), Andres Macias (Aguascalientes Restaurant), Lorraine Walsh (Town of Cicero Trustee ) and Frank S. Zarate Jr. ( Morton East High School principal).

The rest of the evening was filled with entertainment, such as an appearance by folkloric dancers from Morton East High School , delicious food and drinks, and a silent auction and raffle which raised money for programs organized by the Chamber of Commerce including scholarships for the International Houby Queen.

“On behalf of the Hispanic Business Foundation, I just want to thank the community for their support on this marvelous success,” stated Committee Co-Chairman Ivan Barajas.  “Hopefully we will continue to expand and increase participation in all of our events and programs in the future."

Submitted by
Intern staff writers:
Joshua Hernandez
Regina Hernandez