In the Marketplace

29/08/2024

Friends I am back at my desk in California. Here is a link to Hispanic Lifestyle's exclusive event photos from our 2024 Connecting Latinas of Influence | Texas event this last Tuesday evening. Enjoy!
Flickr, https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBtw4V

Connecting Latinas of Influence | Texas a production of Hispanic Lifestyle Sponsored by Wells Fargo Home Mortgage August 27, 2024 | 4pm – 7pm Lorenzo Hotel Dallas 1011 South Akard Street • Dallas, Texas 75215 Link to event details, bit.ly/4bmAy0f WORKING PROGRAM 4:00pm | Check-In • Exhibitors ...

12/08/2024

BUSINESS NEWS
Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice in President Biden’s Cabinet for America’s more than 33 million small businesses, announced that SBA 7(a) lenders may now accept applications for the SBA’s newly-announced 7(a) Working Capital Pilot (WCP) Program. Read more @ https://bit.ly/3YCyfTa

hashtag hashtag hashtag

30/07/2024

The favorite part of my job, announcing Hispanic Lifestyle's Latina of Influence honorees. We look forward to re-connecting our friends in Texas.

Hispanic Lifestyle is pleased to share with our friends the honorees who will be recognized at our Connecting Latinas of Influence | Texas event on August 27, 2024. Thank you Wells Fargo Home Mortgage for supporting our effort to recognize excellence in our community.

Cathy Trevino, Past Chair – Board for the Houston Association of REALTORS® and Business Owner

Claudia Mirza, Founder & CEO – Akorbi

Cristina Solis Wilson, Author, Chief Strategy Officer – Entrepreneur Power Network, Decorated Command Sergeant Major

Emma Trevino, VP, Operations – SER Jobs for Progress National, Inc.

Erica Lopez, State Chair – Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas

Esmeralda Adame, MBA, EdD President/CEO, Consulting Firm – LLC

Mary Ann Kellam, President – CEO and President Irving Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Larissa Davila, Executive Director Economic Growth Business Incubator – EGBI

Laura Flores Simmons, Division Sales Executive – Wells Fargo

Sandra Esquivel, M.Ed. M.Ed., Associate Director of Regional Operations – University of Texas at Arlington

Congratulations to our honorees. Here is a link to their bios https://bit.ly/4bmAy0f

24/07/2024

BUSINESS NEWS

Former PepsiCo executive Richard Montañez, the subject of last year’s Eva Longoria film “Flamin’ Hot,” accuses the company of engaging in a “smear campaign” against him, racial discrimination and violation of the Fair Employment and Housing Act

Richard Montañez, a former senior executive at PepsiCo, Inc., perhaps best known as the man who invented Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and whose inspirational, rags to riches life story was the subject of last year’s hit film “Flamin’ Hot,” was the victim of fraud, racial discrimination, defamation and violations of California’s unfair competition law, according to a 62-page complaint (Case No. CIVRS2400356) filed against PepsiCo.

“I created Flamin’ Hot Cheetos not only as a product but as a movement and as a loyal executive for PepsiCo”

The suit, filed July 18, 2024 in Superior Court of the State of California in San Bernardino on Mr. Montañez’s behalf by law firm Ellis George LLP in Los Angeles, seeks a jury trial, damages, restitution and an order preventing PepsiCo and Frito-Lay from claiming that Mr. Montañez is not the creator of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

“I created Flamin’ Hot Cheetos not only as a product but as a movement and as a loyal executive for PepsiCo,” said Mr. Montañez. “PepsiCo believed in me as a leader because they knew people would follow me, and they did because they knew my soul is my community. We built this into a $2 billion industry, and I cannot let them take away my legacy or destroy my reputation. I will not let them silence me.”

Mr. Montañez became the ultimate American success story, going from high school dropout and janitor at Frito-Lay (now owned by PepsiCo) in Southern California, to celebrated marketing legend after creating “Flamin’ Hot Cheetos” in 1992. His idea became a multi-billion-dollar product line for PepsiCo, finally addressing the Hispanic community with flavorful and spicy snack foods. Mr. Montañez became PepsiCo’s Vice President, Multicultural Sales & Marketing, an author, an inspirational speaker commanding up to $50,000 per speech and his life story was chronicled in last year’s critically acclaimed “Flamin’ Hot,” the directorial debut of actress Eva Longoria.

Yet, after four decades of sharing Mr. Montañez’s extraordinary story with the world, particularly with the Hispanic community, PepsiCo allegedly began an inexplicable smear campaign to disavow Mr. Montañez’s role in creating Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. The tsunami of false and defamatory media coverage that followed has taken a devastating toll on Mr. Montañez’s career as an inspirational speaker, causing the cancellation of speaking engagements, book deals and a documentary – but most devastating for Mr. Montañez, the attack on his reputation has damaged his relationship with his Hispanic community.

“This complaint speaks for itself, and we are looking forward to presenting the merits of this case to a jury,” said Eric George, partner at Ellis George LLP.

09/07/2024

I have been taking lots of photos lately, with my new camera. On my Flickr account I uploaded over 200 photos of Saturday nights fight.

Golden Boy Productions headed by boxing hall of fame member Oscar De La Hoya, brought professional boxing to the Inland Empire’s Toyota Arena. A packed house experienced a first rate production and cheered on several boxers from the region. The hot July 2024 evening featured ten matches and with a...

07/05/2024

Friends to assist small businesses located in the City of San Bernardino there is a grant, Microloan program that was just announced. The program offers grant funds that do not need to be repaid. Hispanic Lifestyle is pleased to share the details @ https://bit.ly/44DN0Gf

05/04/2024

Good morning Friends - It’s HAPPENING 📣 SAVE THE DATE! 📅 Join us on June 19, 2024, in the Bronx, New York, for an empowering event: Connecting Latinas of Influence! 🌟 Let's celebrate the incredible achievements and impact of our community leaders. Learn more and mark your calendars: online @ https://bit.ly/3PPKFlu

SAVE THE DATE | Connecting Latinas of Influence | Bronx, New York - June 19, 2024
Hispanic Lifestyle is thrilled to announce our Connecting Latinas of Influence Series will take place on June 19, 2024 in the Bronx, New York! We will celebrate the influence and achievements of community leaders. Event details online @ https://bit.ly/3PPKFlu

20/03/2024

Richard Sandoval, founder of Hispanic Lifestyle, is excited to announce the expansion of their efforts to spotlight the achievements of Latina community leaders across the United States.

With a history dating back to 2013, Hispanic Lifestyle has recognized over 325 Latina community leaders, and this year, they’re taking their Connecting Latinas of Influence Series to new heights.

https://bit.ly/4cdN6HX

09/02/2024

Are you located in the Inland Empire? Are you interested?

Good morning friends located in California’s Inland Empire.

In my role as board member of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce representing the Inland Empire, I would like to let you know that our Annual State Convention will take place in our region in 2025. The CHCC is currently seeking proposals for host cities and locations in our region.

CHCC’s annual statewide conventions rotate throughout California. Locally in the last 10 years the convention has been held in the Coachella Valley and the City of Riverside. Our 2024 convention will take place in Bakersfield, California this August.

Our company Hispanic Lifestyle has been a longtime partner of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce.

If you are interested in receiving the RFP outline the CHCC requirements, please send me a note or email [email protected]

01/02/2024

01/02/2024

Chiquita Canyon Landfill Utility Relief Grant Program
Extended Until March 31st

The Chiquita Canyon Landfill Utility Relief Grant Program will now be extended until March 31, 2024.

Originally kicked off in October, the program initially offered utility bill reimbursement to residents of Val Verde and Castaic for expenses incurred between May 1, 2023 through October 31, 2023. The deadline was subsequently extended until January 31, 2024 to submit a claim.

Residents impacted by the odors originating from the landfill will have additional time to submit a utility reimbursement claim, now open until March 31, 2024.

"Many households continue to rack up high electricity bills due to the stench coming from the landfill," stated Supervisor Kathryn Barger. "By keeping their windows shut and constantly running air conditioning systems to keep the smell from penetrating their homes further, community members are having to shoulder additional financial burdens, which just adds insult to injury."

Residents can go online to ChiquitaCanyonLandfillRelief.lacda.org to complete the application. Grant awards will range between $1,000 to $2,000 per household.

Those who need help completing the online application or who lack internet access can make an appointment to receive in-person support at Val Verde Community Regional Park, located at 30300 Arlington St., Castaic, CA 91384. In-person support will be available until March 31, 2024 every Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Appointments can be made by dialing (626) 547-4056. Residents who need help but are not available on those dates or times can book an alternative appointment at a more convenient time – including after traditional business hours – by dialing the same number.

Residents have until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 31 to complete and submit an application.

25/01/2024

The Rancho California Water District (Rancho Water/District) has announced the promotion of Jason Martin to the position of Assistant General Manager.

With a tenure of over 17 years at Rancho Water, Mr. Martin's journey began in 2006 when he assumed the role of Information Technology (IT) and Customer Service Manager. His outstanding contributions led to his elevation to the Executive Team in 2015 as the Director of Administration, overseeing crucial departments such as customer service, IT, administration, and water use efficiency.

General Manager Robert Grantham expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It is my honor to announce that Jason Martin has been promoted to Assistant General Manager for Rancho Water. Throughout his dedicated service, Jason has exhibited unwavering commitment to our staff, our mission, values, and our community. His creative prowess and passion make him an invaluable asset within our leadership team."

During his time with Rancho Water, Mr. Martin spearheaded numerous impactful projects benefitting the local community. Notably, the MyWaterTracker tool created a cutting-edge, real-time solution for customers to track their water use and identify leaks on their property. In addition, the CropSWAP program, initiated in 2016, has transformed over 300 acres of farmland, transitioning from high-water-use crops to more sustainable alternatives. Recently, Mr. Martin extended the success of this program with a regional expansion, encompassing neighboring counties and water district customers.

“It will be my pleasure to step into the role of an Assistant General Manager for Rancho Water,” said Mr. Martin. “The District has several pivotal projects on the horizon and I’m excited to lead our exceptional team in advancing these initiatives. I look forward to working on these projects which will benefit the community and move Rancho Water forward as we continue to focus on water sustainability, financial transparency, and technological innovation.”

Mr. Martin holds a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from California State University, San Bernardino. For more information about Rancho Water, please visit us at RanchoWater.com.

12/01/2024

BREAKING NEWS | Women-owned businesses continue to fuel the economy, representing 39.1% of all businesses
2024 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Business Report states that “Hispanic/Latino women represent 18.5% of all women in the U.S. and 14.3% of all women-owned businesses. They are underrepresented as entrepreneurs. Their businesses tend to be smaller and are less likely to be employer firms. One reason for the smaller size may be the lack of access to capital. Read more @ https://bit.ly/3ShH41g

28/12/2023

In case you missed this news.

Congratulations to Karina Quintanilla on becoming the first Latina Mayor of Palm Desert in the Coachella Valley! 🎉 This is a significant milestone, and her achievement is truly commendable. It's inspiring to see diverse voices and leadership represented in politics. To learn more about her incredible journey, check out her story at https://bit.ly/3HisAId. 🌟👏 City of Palm Desert

16/12/2023

Discover the heartbeat of our community at Hispanic Lifestyle! We proudly spotlight decision-makers, business owners, professionals, and organizations making a positive impact.

Our platform, hispaniclifestyle.com, is your gateway to original, authentic content—live and on demand.

14/12/2023

TRANSPORTATION NEWS

U.S. Federal Rail Administration Adds CV Rail to the Corridor ID Program and Awards $500,000

The U.S. Federal Rail Administration (FRA) added the Coachella Valley Rail (CV Rail) Project to the federal Corridor Identification and Development (Corridor ID) Program on December 8, 2023. The Corridor ID Program is an intercity passenger rail planning and development program that the FRA uses to guide intercity passenger rail development throughout the country. This designation included a $500,000 grant award to Caltrans, the State's project partner, to create a Service Development Plan outlining the future needs of passenger rail service in southern California and beyond.

"I am pleased to see the Federal Rail Administration recognize the value CV Rail will bring to Riverside County. By including CV Rail in the Corridor ID program, the federal government has signaled that the project is viable and warrants attention," said RCTC Chair and Lake Elsinore City Councilmember Robert "Bob" Magee. "This designation will help CV Rail compete for more federal grants that will help get this service up and running for our residents," he said.

RCTC, in coordination with Caltrans and the FRA, completed the Tier 1 Program-Level Environmental Impact Statement/Report (EIS/EIR) for the Coachella Valley Project in 2022. RCTC and project partners continue seeking federal and state funding for project costs. Inclusion in the Corridor ID Program is an important step for CV Rail as the project will be more competitive for future federal engineering and construction grants. CV Rail will connect Los Angeles to the Coachella Valley over 144 miles across four counties and has the potential to help extend service to Arizona and beyond.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established the Corridor ID program. The first round of route selections is intended to identify existing rail routes and potential new routes to create an intercity passenger rail system across the Country. Daily intercity passenger rail to and from the Coachella Valley has long been a local and statewide priority. The new service will offer mobility choice, reduce traffic congestion, and expand economic opportunities by connecting the growing Riverside County desert communities to various resorts, commercial, retail, and quality job force.

27/11/2023

Back at my desk today after a great thanksgiving trip to Portland, Oregon. Did you know that Latinos represent 14% of the state's population.

Plans are already taking shape for 2024. Hispanic Lifestyle's BizCon will return to the Los Angeles area early June 2024. Our Latina Conference is scheduled for early November 2024. Hispanic Lifestyle's Connecting Latinas of Influence Series will continue stage events throughout the United States.

Friends let's get you involved.

15/11/2023

Our first visit to since 2019. Look what we found.

14/11/2023

Here is a rare photo of me with Hispanic Lifestyle Latinas of Influence. Ok, I got in the way of someone's photo.

18/10/2023

You don't want to miss this event!

17/10/2023

RCTC Executive Director Anne Mayer to Retire in 2024



RIVERSIDE, Calif. - With great recognition and congratulations, the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) announces that Executive Director Anne Mayer intends to retire from RCTC upon the selection of a new executive director in the spring of 2024.

"On behalf of all 33 RCTC Commissioners, I want to thank Anne Mayer for her incredible contribution to improving the transportation infrastructure throughout Riverside County," said RCTC Chair and Lake Elsinore City Council Member Robert "Bob" Magee. "From the massive expansion of the 91 Freeway to the multiple interchanges we improved along the I-10 and I-15 corridors to the expansion of our Metrolink system, Anne has helped this Commission complete scores of projects and set in motion future improvements that will benefit our region for generations to come," he said.

"As I look back on the last 18 years at RCTC, I am incredibly proud to have led a team of remarkable professionals who completed substantial transportation projects in Riverside County," said RCTC Executive Director Anne Mayer. "I want to thank the Commission for their trust that allowed us to try new ideas and go after big projects, and we succeeded," she said.

Mayer, a Professional Engineer with a civil engineering degree from Michigan State University, joined RCTC as Deputy Executive Director in May 2005 and was appointed Executive Director in 2007. Under Mayer's leadership, RCTC continued to deliver promises made to Riverside County residents through the Measure A half-cent sales tax approved by Riverside County voters first in 1988 and again in 2002. Measure A funds regional and local transportation improvements and habitat conservation. Mayer ensured that transportation projects and programs safely connect Riverside County's diverse communities while preserving the region's natural landscapes.

Leading RCTC and its 81 staff, Mayer oversaw the completion of billions of dollars in transportation improvements to benefit the residents of Riverside County and the region's economy. These projects include completing the Perris Valley Line, the first expansion of Metrolink service since 1994; the I-215 Bi-County Gap Closure Project; the I-15 Express Lanes Project; and the SR-91 Corridor Improvement Project. In 2022 alone, Mayer spearheaded the completion of five major projects, including the 91 Corridor Operations Project, the I-15 Railroad Canyon Road Interchange Project, the I-15 Interim Corridor Operations Project, the 60 Truck Lanes Project, and the I-215 Placentia Avenue Interchange. Not far behind, progress continues with the 15/91 Express Lane Connector, which is scheduled to open later this year, 71/91 Interchange Project currently under construction.

When RCTC became the managing agency of the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) in 2021, Mayer led the effort to accelerate habitat conservation for 146 protected or endangered species in western Riverside County.

"It is my pleasure to honor Anne Mayer on the announcement of her pending retirement in 2024. When RCTC became the managing agency for the RCA, Anne's leadership had an immediate calming effect on RCA's work, and it helped the Board focus its efforts and resources on meeting our key goals," said RCA Chair and Lake Elsinore Mayor Natasha Johnson. "On behalf of the RCA Board of Directors, I want to thank Anne for her tireless service to habitat conservation and wish her the very best in retirement. There is no doubt in my mind she will be missed," she said.

While Mayer's engineering background has helped problem-solve transportation and conservation projects, she has applied her expert knowledge to local, state, and federal policy decision-making to ensure that Riverside County receives its fair share of funding and that state and federal policies support RCTC's work. Mayer's efforts included discussions with elected and government officials in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., describing the vast and unique needs in Riverside County. This work resulted in millions of dollars in funding that helped complete projects on time and within budget.

Mayer's distinguished career includes nearly 15 years with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), including three years as District 8 Deputy District Director for Design and four years as District 8 District Director, implementing transportation projects across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

As a leading voice for transportation infrastructure improvements across inland Southern California for 40 years, Mayer's dedicated work has earned her recognition, including the California Transportation Foundation's Person of the Year award; the Orange County Chapter Women's Transportation Seminar (WTS) Woman of the Year award and the Inland Empire WTS Woman of the Year award; and the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce presented Mayer with the Athena Award for demonstrated professional achievement, community service, and mentorship.

"I have had a very fulfilling career, and I am proud of our accomplishments. I am confident the RCTC team will continue to build upon the Commission's legacy of excellence in the months and years ahead," Mayer said.

Everyone

17/10/2023