READERS

TRIBUTES TO SOMOS PRIMOS

Tributes to "Los Primos" and Somos Primos

Listed alphabetically

Mercy Bautista Olvera, My Journey
Carlos Campos de Escalante, How I found Somos Primos
Rosie Carbo, The Information Superhighway
Virginia Correa (Jones) Creager, PhD
Timothy Crump, Inspire us to Learn about our Ancestors
Wanda Garcia, The Importance of Family
Mary Ann (Molly) Long, Abrazos muy fuerte desde Madrid
Ann Longanecker, Connected with my Spanish heritage in a way I Couldn't Imagine Before
Michael S. Perez, Last Submission to Somos Primos
J. Gilberto Quezada, A Special Tribute To A Great Editor and Publisher
Joe Sanchez, I am glad to have connected the East Coast Primos to the West Coast Primos
John Schmal, You gave me an Opportunity
Robert Thonhoff, Thanks for 20 Years of Enlightenment!
Albert Vela, Ph.D. The "end of part of the road"

My Journey

Mercy Bautista-Olvera

Mimi Lozano; the creator and editor of Somos Primos for several decades now, and my friend, recently asked me to contribute one last article to Somos Primos. I have been an article contributor for Somos Primos for nearly two decades, and now that editor Mimi Lozano is closing this chapter in her life, by ending the Somos Primos publication on line, Mimi asked me to summarize for readers, both my genealogical journey and my writing journey for Somos Primos.

In 1992, I started going to Family History Centers to search for my ancestors, for many years I followed such links on Family Search, Roots, and others to find more genealogical information. This research included joining genealogical research groups to further my research. The grateful guidance, from soon to be best friends; John P. Schmal and Connie Dominguez, contributed tremendously. At the time, the three of us were researching my ancestor Petronila Moctezuma (a descendant of Moctezuma II, the Emperor of Mexico) and her genealogical connection to Lope Ruiz de Esparza and Ana Francisca Gabai..

My research allowed me to trace my paternal line back to the 1400s. However, my maternal line can be traced to the 800’s and includes such notable figures as Eric VI of Sweden and William the Conqueror. Ancestral DNA testing further extended the wealth of diversity of lands and cultures from which my ancestors originated.

During this time in the early 1990’s Mimi and her staff conducted several genealogical workshops, throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties. While I, for whatever reason, was unable to attend these workshops, was regular visitor to the Somos Primos website. Then in 2004 after attending the unveiling of a monument honoring World War II hero; PFC. Eugene Obregon in downtown Los Angeles, I emailed a letter to Mimi Lozano, describing the event and the significance of it. Mimi, in return, asked if I was interested in writing for Somos Primos. I was.

I began submitting articles to Somos Primos in 2001. These articles, for example, “Los Niño Héroes de Chapultepect” or “Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.” Many articles were part of a biographical series grouped by such topics as: “Latinos and Latinas Ultimate Sacrifice,” “Hispanics Breaking Barriers,”, and “A Wise Latina”. But I also contributed many personal articles on my grandparents, parents, some of my siblings, and even my grandchildren.

In the coming years I would attend such public events as a memorial for World War II veteran and hero; Gus Gabaldon or an event honoring murdered U.S. Drug Enforcement Agent, Enrique Camerena, and then submit detailed articles of these events to Somos Primos.

In September 2004 I wrote a biographical article on my father Marcelino Bautista. This article caught the attention of Dr. Maggie Rivas Rodriguez (founder of the U.S. Latino & Latina WWII VOCES Oral History Project Group). Dr. Rodriguez, via Mimi Lozano asked me to further expand the article, for inclusion in a coming book. I was honored by the request. The book, “A Legacy Greater than Words - Stories of U.S. Latinos & Latinas of the World War II Generation” by Dr. Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez, Juliana Torres, Melissa Di-Piero-D’Sa and Lindsey Fitzpatrick was published in May 2006. The second part of the book “Mexican Civilians Who Worked in the U.S. During WWII,” features an article and photo of my Dad. While Dad did not enlist, he was a “contributor” by working under the “Bracero” program for railroads in several states, while American male citizens enlisted and were being shipped off to war.

Submitted Series and Articles

(The full text of the following articles are available on the “Somos Primos” website: www.somosprimos.com

“Latinos/Latinas Ultimate Sacrifice” (2008-2009)

Includes the biographies of over 120 Latinos/Latinas who lost their lives in Iraq/Afghanistan during the years from 2003 to 2008.

“Hispanics Breaking Barriers” (2009-2013)

Over a 30-month period, each article highlighted 5 Latinos who lead the way in obtaining a position seldom or never held by a Latino. The 150 biographies are inspiring, each filled with a unique family history. These are living Hispanics fulfilling leadership roles throughout the United States.

“Wise Latinas” (2009-2013)

From November 2009 to December 2013 Somos Primos featured articles on noteworthy Hispanic women. My first choice was Sonia Sotomayor, U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

Sonia Sotomayor (Somos Primos, September 2009)


“José León Robles de la Torre” (October 2001)
	José León Robles de la Torre was born in 1925 in Juanchorrey, Zacatecas, Mexico, he has received many awards for his writing contributions. He is a writer, journalist, historian and poet. He has worked for “El Siglo de Torreon” a newspaper in Torreon, Coahuila, Mexico for many years. Mr. Robles de la Torre has published many books such as “Historia de Juanchorrey, Tepetongo and Zacatecas”, “Filigranas, Fundaciones y Genealogias, Tepetongo, Zacatecas and many more all in Spanish.

“The Journey of Marcelino R. Bautista” (September 2004)

Marcelino Ramirez Bautista (my father) was born in the city of Zacatecas, Mexico on June 2, 1906. In 1916 after the death of his mother, Petra Arteaga Ramirez, his father Tiburcio Muro Bautista decided to travel to United States looking for work, bringing his 10-year old son Marcelino with him and leaving the older children with relatives and young daughter Bartola with her Godparents in Zacatecas. In New Mexico, with the help of neighbors, Tiburcio found work, while Marcelino attended school. Unfortunately, with the loss of work, father and son returned to Mexico. The article highlights my fathers struggle and life in the United States. Marcelino passed on May 12, 1989 in Los Angeles County in California.

“Marine PFC Eugene Obregon Monument” (November 2004)

The article describes the unveiling of the Obregon Monument Marker in Los Angeles, California it was a combined product of both artist Eddie Martinez’ article and my letter to Mimi Lozano.

(Unveiling the Marker - Pictured from left to right; Eddie Martinez, Designer, Roger I. Brautigan, Undersecretary of Veterans Affairs, Bill Lansford, Foundation Founder, and then L.A. City Councilman, Antonio Villaraigosa reading from Bronze Marker)

“A Memorial to a Hero, Guy Gabaldon” (January 2007)

Guy Gabaldon, a native from East Los Angeles, never forgot where he came from. This article traces his early life from as a young boy shining shoes to earn money to learning Japanese from his neighbors in East Los Angeles. In the Battle for Saipan in June 1944, during World War II, he convinced more than 1,000 Japanese soldiers to surrender, thus earning the nickname "The Pied Piper of Saipan."

(Pictured, Ohana Gabaldon wife of Guy Gabaldon escorted to the Gabaldon Memorial)


“Enrique “Henry” Bautista – A Tribute to a Brother” (February 2007)
	Henry, was born on July 15, 1934 in the city of Zacatecas, was the child of Marcelino Bautista and Anastacia Nuñez. He was the paternal grandson of Tiburcio Bautista and Petra Ramirez, and the maternal grandson of Juan Nuñez and Guadalupe Robles. While our father Marcelino was often out of the country seeking work, our paternal grandfather Tiburcio Bautista and older brother Henry, were important paternal roles figures in our lives. Henry passed on October 23, 2005 in Orange County, California.

“A Legacy Greater Than Words” (March 2007)

An article and photo of our father, Marcelino R. Bautista, are entered in “A Legacy Greater Than Words” in the part, “Mexican Civilians who worked in the U.S. during WWII.” Marcelino was hired to work on railroads in Toledo, Ohio, Kansas and other places.

“A Legacy Greater than Words” (published by Latino &Latina WWII Oral History Project, 2006, and written and compiled by Dr. Rivas-Rodriquez, sitting in the middle, Lindsey Fitzpatrick, Juliana Torres and Melissa DiPiero-D'sa

“Michael Lopez Alegria” (March 2007)

From November 23 to December 7, 2002, Michael Lopez Alegria flew the STS-113 Endeavour, the sixteenth Shuttle mission to visit the International Space Station. This mission was to bring home the Expedition 5 crew from their 6-month stay aboard the space station. Lopez-Alegria performed three Extra-vehicular activity missions totaling 19 hours and 55 minutes. The space shuttle orbited the Earth 216 times and traveled 5.7 million miles.

“Cesar E. Chavez” (April 2007)
	Cesar Chavez was born Cesario (Cesar) Estrada Chavez on March 31, 1927 in Yuma, Arizona. Cesar, the son of Librado Chavez and Juana Estrada-Chavez, immigrants from Chihuahua, Mexico, he was named after his paternal grandfather. The family lived on a farm in an adobe house where Cesar was born and grew up. His father Librado agreed to clear acres of land and in exchange believed he would receive the deed of land that adjoined his home. The agreement was broken by dishonest landowners and sadly, the family lost their home. The mistreatment of his father caused young Cesar to learn of the many social injustices that exist. Cesar Chavez later would say "the love for justice that is in us, is not only the best part of our being, but it is also the most true to our nature."

“Anastacia Nuñez -Bautista - A Noble Woman” (May 2007)
	My mother, Anastacia Nuñez-Bautista was born on January 22, 1908 in Cieneguillas, Zacatecas, Mom’s parents were Juan Flores Nuñez and Guadalupe Nava Robles, and Anastacia's paternal grandparents were Lucas Garcia Nuñez and Serapia Molina Flores, the maternal grandparents were Antonio Casas Robles and Refugio Acevedo Nava. Anastacia passed on October 27, 1978 in Los Angeles County. California.

“Hispanics in the Civil War” (June 2007), Colonel Santos Benavidez

This article describes the military life of 2 Hispanic men who fought in the Civil War. Born in Laredo, Texas, Colonel Santos Benavidez was the highest ranking Mexican American in the Confederate Army. He commanded his own regiment that included his two brothers Capt. Refugio and Capt. Cristobal Benavidez. Santos Benavidez’ regiment was "the first to fight and the last to surrender." Although General Hamilton Lee and other generals recommended promotions for Colonel Santos Benavidez, Colonel Jon "Rip" Ford was against the decision and felt this would diminish his own role in the Rio Grande exploits.

David Glasgrow Farregut
	David Glasgow Farragut was born James Glasgow Farragut, in Tennessee. He was the son of Jorge Farragut, a Spaniard born in Menorca, Spain, and Elizabeth Shine of North Carolina, a Scottish-Irish pioneer. After his parents died, he assumed his adoptive father’s first name, David. Farragut became the United States’ first Admiral in the U.S. Navy.

“Enrique “Kiki” Camarena- A Hero’s Legacy” (October 2007)

Every October schools nationwide declare "Red Ribbon" week, it is an ideal time to reflect on the life of Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. Camarena was a Special Agent of the Drug Enforcement Administration in Guadalajara, Mexico. On February 7, 1985, Enrique Camarena and his pilot, Alfredo Zavala Avelar, were kidnapped, tortured, and murdered, by Mexican drug traffickers.

“Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla” (October 2007)

	In Mexico, September 16^th celebrates Mexican Independence from Spain. As the father of the Mexican Nation and Liberator of Mexico; Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla fought bravely to gain independence from Spain under the leadership of Ferdinand VII.


“Marine Sgt. Rafael Peralta” (December 2007)
	Marine Sgt. Rafael Peralta was born in Mexico City in 1979. He was the son of Rafael Peralta Sr. and Rosa Romero-Peralta; older brother to Icela, Karen, and Ricardo. The family moved to Tijuana, Mexico, then to San Diego, California where Rafael attended and graduated from Morse High School in San Diego, California in 1997. Peralta earned the nomination of Medal of Honor recipient, when in the Iraq War, Peralta shielded several Marines from a live grenade in November 2004. Later Peralta’s comrades presented themselves and asked that the government posthumously award Peralta the Medal of Honor. Unfortunately, despite eyewitness accounts from his comrades, questions remained regarding the veracity of events. He was instead posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.

“Los Niños Héroes de Chapultepec” (September 2008)

	During the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) a conflict between the United States and Mexico emerged. This war in Mexico is referred to as “La Intervención Norteamericana”, and in the United States as (“The North American Intervention”). The United States went to War against Mexico under the orders of then President Polk. Among many Mexican adult Patriots fighting for their country there were also Los Niños de Chapultepec (Heroic Cadets of Chapultepec Castle), six teenagers (13 to 17 years old). However, Americans soldiers overpowered them and Mexico lost nearly half of its territory to United States.

“Art Garcia” (May 2009)

	This article is a brief biography on Art Garcia; born in El Paso, Texas in 1924. Art enlisted in the Army on March 6, 1943 at Fort McArthur in California. He was assigned to AAF Basic Training. As PFC, Art Garcia served as a Military Policeman, served with the 1383^rd. Military Policemen Company (Aviation) in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations in United States. He was deployed to Honolulu, Hawaii from December 31, 1943 to January 14, 1946.

“Dignity Memorial Traveling Vietnam Wall - A Healing Process” (May 2010)

	The article describes the events surrounding the arrival of the “Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall” at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, California in March 2010. The wall is a three-quarter size replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C. There are more than 58,000 names on the wall.

“Joseph Machado – Biking for America” (October 2010)

	On July 13, 2010, Machado arrived at the gates of the White House. His goal was to raise $500,000 to be donated to children with illnesses. He raised $15,000 to be donated toward treating ill children, including those with congenital illnesses, like spinal bifida.

“Dr. Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School Dedication
Corona-Norco Unified School District” (November 2010)

Dr. Augustine Ramirez began his career as a Fontana High School Spanish teacher at Fontana High School in Fontana, California. Dr. Ramirez soon was hired to teach in Corona. Beginning in 1977, he has worked as a teacher and administrator in the Corona-Norco School District for 22 years. After leaving his post in Corona, Dr. Ramirez went to work for Terrell at San Bernardino County Schools. In 1984, Dr. Ramirez was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services for the San Bernardino County School where he eventually retired after a forty-year career in education.

“Personajes en la historia de México” (El Siglo de Torreon) (June 2012)

Somos Primos editor, Mimi Lozano, suggested that I contact and request to have published, several articles by my Uncle José León Robles de la Torre, who at the time, was a journalist and historian for “El Siglo de Torreon,” a newspaper in Torreon, Coahuila, for many decades.

In response,my uncle, allowed several of his articles (which he submitted to “El Siglo de Torreon “to be shared with Somos Primos for Spanish Speaking readers. There are nearly 70 biographies, each filled with a unique family history.

La siguiente serie de lista de index alfabetica “Personajes en la historia de México”- La independencia y los Presidentes de México publicada en Somos Primos fue escrita por mi tio el escritor, poeta, periodismo José León Robles de la Torre. Envie 2 articulos de cada mes para ser publicados. Los Presidentes de México quienes obtubieron posisicion historica. Las biografias fueron inspiradas en llenar una historia familiar unica.

“Henry Gerlach Bazurto” (February 2013)

	This article describes the life and military experience of World War II Veteran Henry Gerlach Bazurto. Bazurto who was awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and the Silver Star. He was recognized with 15 other awards. Bazurto never regretted joining the military; he stated it was his duty to have served. In 2015, Bazurto’s daughter, Merlou and I began corresponding. She shared with me that Henry was a regular reader of “Somos Primos” and further stated that just prior to his passing he had planned to contribute information on his personal life and experiences in the Special Forces

“Relay for Life of Chino Luminaria” (September 2013)

This article describes the annual “Relay for Life” event in Chino. The event which I have attended since 2009, is presented to support men, women, and children who are struggling with different types of cancer.



	Marcelino R. Bautista: My Father, my Hero – Great memories make life a little easier” December 2013 (May 2009)

	This article describes my father’s adult years, both happy and sad in the United States. Marcelino eventually worked as a Bracero, and later brought his wife Anastacia Nuñez and children to live in the United States.

“Henry Gerlach Bazurto” (March 2015)

	First Special Services Force (FSSF) 4th Co. 1st Regiment On February 3, 2015, Henry Gerlach Bazurto (posthumously), Eugene Gutierrez Jr., and their comrades received Congressional Gold Medals for their heroism. Thank you to all the heroes who lost their lives during and after WWII who we call “The Greatest Generation” and to "The Devil's Brigade" survivors who attended the ceremony.

“A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt” by Dr. Leonor Xochitl Perez founder of Mariachi Femenil (all female Mariachi) (April 2015)

	This article describes a mariachi concert, organized and presented as “A Tribute to Linda Ronstadt’s album “Canciones de mi Padre.” The concert, Saturday March 21, 2015 was the 2nd Annual Women's Festival at San Gabriel Mission Playhouse in San Gabriel, California in Los Angeles County. Dr. Leonor Xochitl Perez

“Albert ‘Obie’ Obregon”
Lifetime Achievement Award
(March 2017)

On February 11, 2017, Albert “Obie” Obregon was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award - from the Art Directors Guild at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood, California, his longtime friend Eddie Martinez, was the presenter of the award. For Albert it has been a long and productive career.

“Bautista Reunion” (July 2016)

On July 9, 2016, a “Bautista Family Reunion” was held at La Mirada Regional Park in La Mirada, California. About 150 people attended, with many family members arriving from out of state.


“Hispanic Olympian Medal Winners Olympics” (October 2016)

		This article features the many Hispanic Medal winners of the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, including the U.S. Women's Basketball Team that crushed Spain 101-72 to win their sixth-consecutive Gold medal.

“ The Story of Ramon Gutierrez” (March 2019)

	This article is a condensation of Dave Gutierrez’ book “Patriots from The Barrio” (Westholme Publishing, 2018) and information from the Ancestry website. Private Ramon G. Gutierrez, served in the 36th Division 141st Regiment 2nd Battalion Company E, the “only all Mexican American Unit” from January 1941 to November 1944. He served in various battle sites/campaigns such as: North Africa, Salerno, Naples-Foggia Campaign, Mt. Rotondo, San Pietro, Rapido River, Monte Cassino, Anzio, Velletri, and Rome. He had been taken prisoner on two occasions and managed to escape both times. Eventually Ramon was awarded with the Silver Star and Purple Heart and other medals for his patriotism and bravery during WWII.

Mariachi International (August 2018)

	My daughter Janet and I attended the 5th Annual Mariachi Women's Festival at San Gabriel Mission Playhouse. The Director and organizer of this event is Dr. Leonor Xochitl Perez. Performers included “Las Estrellas” from Vancouver, Canada, “Las Adelitas” from London, England and the group “Alma del Folkloro” came from Denver, Colorado. Additionally, there was one performer, Junko Seki, from Japan.

“My Grandfather Tiburcio Muro Bautista” (November 2019)

My paternal grandfather, Tiburcio Muro Bautista, was born in Villanueva, Zacatecas, Mexico. He was the son of Tiburcio Vasquez Bautista and Regina Torres Muro. My grandfather married three times, his first wife, Maria Felix Vidales, died on January 28, 1898 of fever, just three months after she married Tiburcio. My grandfather then remarried my grandmother Petra Arteaga Ramirez on January 14, 1899, unfortunately Grandma passed away in 1916, at the age of 30, their two little girls 3-year old daughter Daria and 7-month old Reyes, also passed away in the same month and year as when grandma passed. In 1920, my grandfather then remarried Maria Cruz Dorado, a widow with children until they both passed, Tiburcio in 1968 and his wife Maria Cruz in 1969. My grandfather lived to be 100 years old. The article describes his life and struggles in Zacatecas, Mexico at the turn of the last century.

Tiburcio Muro Bautista and his grown children, (left to right) Juanita, Tiburcio, Maria, Marcelino and Bartola Bautista (not pictured, 17-year old) Rafael, who was killed during the Mexican Revolution in 1917).

My Motivation to Contribute to Somos Primos
by
Dr. C. Campos y Escalante
campce@gmail.com

Dear Mimi,

I am replying to your request that I write of my motivation to contribute to Somos Primos.

A little background:

Since 1976 I have been active in helping the Hispanic community in Wisconsin, first as a volunteer in the Guadalupe Dental Clinic and later on as member of the board of several Hispanic organizations such as the United Community Center, The Spanish Center, the South-Side Guadalupe Dental Clinic, the Loyola Dental Clinic and the Hispanic Medical Association of Wisconsin.

Since my retirement and moving away from Wisconsin I have had a void in my activities. I decided to do my genealogy and have worked on that since then. I joined the blog of Genealogía de México and through them I became acquainted with Somos Primos. I started receiving it on a regular basis as member of Genealogia de México. After some time of receiving it I decided to write to Samuel Sanchez (please see my letter below) who forwarded it to you for your comment. You replied to me and that was the beginning of many exchanges between you and me.

campce@gmail.com
Date: 2015-04-08
Subject: GenealogiaSureste 2847 Revista Genealógica en Línea: Somos Primos April 2015
To: samuelsanchez@genealogia.org.mx

Dear Mr. Sánchez,

Thank you for forwarding this most interesting webpage of Somos Primos. I really enjoy reading it most of the time, for all the interesting information it contains. However, I have some issues, mostly semantic. I hope to generate a discussion that would solve, at least for me, the correct usage of terms, particularly in government forms.

I have lived for over 40 years in the US and have heard many times the words: Latinos (as), Chicanos, Hispanic, etc. to describe us all regardless of origin. Let me take issue with that terminology which I do not like because I consider it improper. It appears we follow the same oversimplification pattern of the "Anglos". To me it sounds derogatory to use any of those terms and that is the basis of my comment, especially when "we" apparently fall into the same habit and tacitly perpetuate it. We all know that "Anglo" society is quite diverse and formed of many nationality groups. Well, the same is the case of all Hispanic, Latino or Chicano groups and some may prefer to be called by their nationality rather than being grouped in the wrong one. Mexico alone has over 200 different ethnic and linguistic groups and do not like being mixed either.

I think first of all there should be a consensus of definitions, but an academic one not a popular usage one.

While most of us are Mestizo of one kind or another we do have a preference or a majority of DNA from a certain group.

I take particular issue with poorly constructed private or public questionnaires that ask personal information where they usually mix race, ethnicity, nationality, language preference and skin color. While I understand that these current definitions are used for political purposes I still think it is wrong to mix apples and oranges and confuse the less educated minds and putting us all mixed in the same pigeon box.

Using an example: we all know that Lemon is "Limon" and Lime is "Lima" in all Iberian American countries, but not so in the US where it is exactly reverse. Do we have to continue using the wrong words or do we correct the ignorance? I, for one try to use the proper words with the correct meanings and not necessarily to follow the errors of the majority.

I think it is incumbent upon an organization such as Somos Primos to elevate the level of knowledge not only in our common history but also in the usage of correct terminology, not in perpetuating the Anglo wrong terminology per secula seculorum.

While I do not have a solution for these questions I wanted to start this debate in the hope that people more versed in semantics would help us in the correct definitions to be able to request such corrections in the government forms.

Another question for the group - ¿Por qué si la página se llama Somos Primos está escrita en inglés?,¿Por qué no se escribe en castellano? What better way to preserve our identity and culture.

I hope to have generated a little academic soul searching. Many others have had the questions I ask myself. I hope my comment does not offend anyone. Like I said before, I enjoy and applaud their labor and look forward to receiving month to month your link to the webpage Somos Primos.

I think I should close now in the hope of helping improve an excellent source and means of communication of our history and culture. Thank you for your various updates.

Sincerely, Dr. C. Campos y Escalante
P.S. Please forward as you deem necessary. Thank you.

Mimi, You may remember that after many exchanges of trying to clarify concepts for you and your readers it became my crusade to participate actively in Somos Primos and became my way of continuing to contribute to my community while in retirement. Ever since I have been pleased that my findings and small contribution to your effort has found your approval for inclusion in Somos Primos monthly. I bring a perspective of 20 years of full-time study of the history that we were not taught in school as the official history, most often my findings go against the official history. I have tried to rescue the real history from oblivion and in particular in exposing the Black Legend for what it is... a concerted effort to discredit our ancestors achievements.

I thank you for the opportunity you provide me to share my findings with your readers in the hope that they may motivate some to continue our legacy in the future.

May God grant you many more years of health and may history remember your tireless efforts.

Your friend, Carlos

In a nutshell:

Born and raised in Mexico City; B.S., D.D.S. (Mexico); Post graduate degree in Maxillofacial Radiology (´71 Osaka,Japan), and (´74 Gifu, Japan); M.Ed. (USA); Retired Oral Surgeon.

Former professor at Dental Program, University of Guam, Mariana Islands; Director of International Assoc. of DentoMaxilloFacial Radiology; Former Professor and Head of Dept of Maxillofacial Radiology Aut. Univ. of Guadalajara (Mexico); Former Head of TEAM Clinic, Marquette University School of Dentistry, former Head of Radiology, Clinical Assoc. Professor Marquette University School of Dentistry; Former Chief of Dentistry St. Luke´s Medical Center, Milwaukee; Member of several hospitals´ staffs (Mount Sinai and St. Francis Hospitals, Milwaukee, WI). Private practice of dental surgery until retirement.

-Volunteer work: former volunteer of South Side Dental Clinic; and of Centro Hispano; Former Vice-President of CCU (Centro de la Comunidad Unida), Milwaukee; Former President of Guadalupe Dental Clinic (Milwaukee).

-Former Editor of Oral Radiology, Japanese Society of Dental and Maxillo Facial Radiology.

Member of multiple academic and professional organizations:

Elected to OKU. Honorary Dental Fraternity.
Family historian and genealogist since 2000.

The Information Superhighway

by
Rosie Carbo

It’s been decades since I, along with millions of others, entered the “information superhighway.” That was not a term my professors used when I was a journalism student at the University of North Texas. Our professors simply told us it would change the world.

In 1980 at UNT we began transitioning from electric typewriters to machines called computers. They were big, bulky boxes with a keyboard. I recall those days vividly, even if it means I’m dating myself.

UNT was called North Texas State University when I attended. My final year there, we were expected to be real journalists. Writing news articles using the computer became mandatory in my senior year. I covered two beats-also mandatory-for the campus newspaper.

Of course, journalism students could not have imagined how computers would revolutionize the world, let alone how the new computer technology would impact our ability to communicate globally and edit, research, write and get published.

Small town newspaper publishers and editors didn’t have a clue about how computers worked. Some took “crash courses” in them so they could explain computer functions to new hires and to veteran reporters.

My first job as a print journalist was at the Allen American, which the owner/publisher started in his garage. I lived in Plano, but the local paper wasn’t hiring. Allen was a few miles north and Dallas was 25 miles south. Despite my willingness to drive to Dallas, the two major newspapers preferred experienced reporters.

Landing your first job without experience is never easy, especially if you’re determined to work in your field. Armed with my journalism degree, I applied at the Allen American. Although the AA turned me down, I offered to come and write for free!

The day after being told there was nothing available, the editor called and hired me. The publisher was impressed with my enthusiasm and willingness to work for free. I became the lead features reporter. The hourly pay was a pittance, but I didn’t mind. I was doing what I loved best!

Decades ago, most towns only had one newspaper. If you couldn’t get hired there, you had to “get out of dodge” so to speak. To make a very long story short, computer technology created greater job opportunities for everyone, including writers like me.

Vice President Al Gore used the term “information superhighway” in 1994. But one dictionary entry says it was used much earlier. One website says the year in which the term “Internet” was used was 1969, while another listed another year. Regardless of who is right, most everyone is now a motorist on the information superhighway.

Thanks to my husband, Victor Carbó, I learned about computers. He’s been at my side through virtually every technological change. Armed with a college degree in computers, Victor has been in the computer industry since its infancy. And he continues teaching me about advances in computer technology.

Remember the once ubiquitous floppy disc? Once I learned how it interacted with my computer, I felt as if I had achieved a huge level of success. As the giant computers became smaller and stocked with more giga bites, I realized hubby was right: this technology would make the Industrial Revolution pale by comparison.

But nowadays we take this life-altering technology for granted. We communicate globally via computer and we don’t consider what a ground-breaking invention we’re part of now. And let’s not forget the cellphone. More compelling to me is knowing that the new technology helped ignite globalization.

This miracle of technology brings me to how I began contributing to Somos Primos. I love to research prior to writing on any subject. Several years ago, while researching a story for a magazine, I stumbled across the Somos Primos website.

Since I learned Spanish at home growing up, I knew instantly that it meant “We Are Cousins.” The catchy title caught my attention instantly, making me wonder what a website could have to do with cousins.

After reading several in-depth stories, I realized the site had a wealth of historical information focusing on the contributions of Hispanics in building the United States. I read truly revealing stories I had not read anywhere else. The larger-than-life photos really helped the website bring those stories to life.

After signing up to receive Somos Primos and becoming a reader, I wrote to founder and editor, Mimi Lozano. I told her I was a print journalist interested in contributing. She replied immediately to my email request to contribute.

The beauty of this website is that it publishes factual articles not found in mainstream media. It also has many highly educated contributors. Many of the contributors have earned, bachelor’s, master’s and doctorates degrees in history and other advanced fields of study.

Writers who have lived the history of the United States and are alive to retell their stories also provide a richer, factual picture of Hispanics in this country. Another factor that impressed me about this website is the desire to preserve our rich Hispanic heritage.

Chronicling the lives of Hispanics has been Mimi Lozano’s labor of love. And she will be truly missed as she retires from writing and editing this treasure of a website. I want to Thank Mimi from the bottom of my heart for giving me the opportunity to contribute, and for allowing hundreds and thousands of us Hispanics to have our say!

###

Hi All,

Here is an update from a huge "obra" and real labor of love from Mimi Lozano in California after 20 years of effort. This has been a fantastic compilation of her own study and the contributions of thousands of others with related interests. Somos Primos is beautifully segmented into different parts of the US and also into different parts of the WORLD of the hispanic culture, the people and the language--plus you name it: familias and their surnames, education, achievements, family trees and so much.

If you can do look into this huge project and DO LOOK UP YOUR OWN SURNAME. Probably you will be surprised. Also, look up your own part of the world dating to your birth and then in both directions--forward and backward. Fascinating! I found a photo of the old church in the tiny town where my father was baptised! Can you imagine; I showed it to the whole family, most of whom have never really ventured much into Mexico.

Your friend and prima,

Ginny

Virginia Correa (Jones) Creager, PhD

Litchfield Park, AZ

Mimi,

One of the greatest developments of the last century is Somos Primos....thinking of where we would be without you and your efforts!!....in the dark!!!!

Thanks for what you do...both bringing us information, but also inspiring us to learn about our ancestors...

Timothy Crump
crumpta@msn.com
August 20, 2019

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY
by
Wanda Garcia
Daughter of Dr. Hector P. Garcia

THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY

What a better way of closing another year with a magical tale of self- validation. Since I retired in February, I have been struggling to redefine my life-new schedule, new people, new lifestyle, too many options, but none filling the void in my soul.

So when Patsy Vasquez Contes contacted me this October to let me know that I was selected by the Beatrice Perez Chapter of the American GI Forum from Robstown, TX to be honored. They were placing my picture on an RTA bus in Corpus Christi, Texas, along with other activists of the Hispanic Civil Rights Movement for their annual bus wrap celebration an event that honors Hispanic Leaders. I was so honored and grateful to be included in this celebration. So, I made the journey from my home in Austin, Texas two Days before the ceremony.

Photo credit: Lisa Torres

Saturday, I spent doing the usual touristy activities and making a pilgrimage to those places I was familiar with and reminded me of my youth spent in Corpus Christi.

Lunch time rolled around and I decided to eat at Hester’s a bistro located in Lamar Park. Lamar Park was the neighborhood I grew up in. Lamar Park has changed little since I lived in Corpus Christi. Pilars and Julian Gold stores I used to frequent were still there. I entered the bistro and ordered a short stack of blueberry pancakes and proceed to find a table. As I turned to look for an available table, I was stunned and could not believe my eyes when I saw my cousin and County Judge Barbara Canales holding court with 3 others. “Barbara Canales”, I shouted. Barbara was just as surprised and arose and hugged me. We had not seen each other in three years. We briefly updated each other on family and she recommended that I go visit her parents Tony and Yolanda Canales. Barbara was discussing county business and I decided to sit at a table by my self.

My meal arrived, so I sat down and ate, all the while marveling at the synchronicity that brought us together. Statistically the probably was slim that we would encounter each other in a city the size of Corpus Christi. My life’s experience taught me that when forces such as these were at play, there was a lesson or information in store for me.

When I finished and it was time for me to depart, I returned to Barbara’s table to say goodbye, Barbara got up and embraced me again. We hugged and kissed good bye and she held me at arm’s length and looked at me and said, “Kiki when I look at your face, I see the faces of your parents and the faces of all of the Garcia women.” I was stunned by this revelation. Those word spoken by Barbara were the most beautiful any one has ever spoken to me. Beautiful words from a beautiful lady. I felt validated in the path I had chosen and the work I have chosen, to follow in the path of my father. I left weeping tears of joy.

From: molly long <molly@telefonica.net>
To: mimilozano <mimilozano@somosprimos.com>
Sent: Thu, Dec 5, 2019
Subject: RE: Somos Primos, "We are Cousins" December 2019

Querida Mimi,
Abrazos muy fuerte desde Madrid... Tu trabajo es una maravilla y nosotros no olvidamos nunca tu trabajo!!!! Enhorabuena por todo..

Te mando un abrazo muy fuerte de tu hermana en Historia en Madrid...
Feliz Navidad y lo mejor para 2020 y tu futuro!!!
Hugs, Molly

Mary Ann (Molly) Long
España Chapter NSDAR
Honorary Regent
Spanish Task Force Member
molly@telefonica.net
+34 639178553
www.dar.org

Rise and Shine for America and for DAR!

Mimi, I am really going to miss Somos Primos and You!

Thanks to you I have learned so much and connected with my

Spanish heritage in a way i couldn't imagine before. I owe you so much

for putting it all together in a bite-size format that i could appreciate.

Wishing you the best in your retirement

Ann-Marie in California

Ann Longanecker
torahwarrior101@gmail.com
Dec 6, 2019

Last Submission to Somos Primos
Michael S. Perez
Oct 4, 2019

Dearest and Win:

I send you my last and most heartfelt submission for publication in SP. Please, forgive the emotional tone. I love you both very much and it has been my honor to know you!!!!.

Mimi Lozano Holtzman:

Somos Primos originally began in 1986, with a different name, as the first flyer posting upcoming meetings for a Hispanic Research Study group in Orange County, California, will soon be ending as an online monthly publication dedicated to Hispanic heritage. I for one shall miss it. As I write this letter of thank you to Mimi Lozano Holtzman for her many years of selfless dedication as the editor and publisher of Somos Primos and co-founded the Society of Hispanic Historical and Ancestral Research (SHHAR) fame, I find it hard to capsulize her life.

One can begin with the obvious fact that she was born in 1933 in San Antonio, Texas, making her nationality American. Interestingly, she can trace her family ancestry to King Fernándo, the Spanish monarch who commissioned Cristóbal Colón. She attended the University of California, Los Ángeles, and in 1955, earned her Bachelor of Science degree. That same year she married Win Holtzman whom she met while attending the UCLA graduate summer school. She continued her academic education at UCLA and earned her Master of Public and Recreation Administration in 1957. She and Win are also the parents of two wonderful children and proud grandparents to many grandchildren and GreatGrandchildren. Her life calling has been as that of an educator and activist for Hispanic rights.

But as with most complex and highly talented human beings, she has been and is now, much, much more. For anyone who truly knows her, Mimi’s intrinsic gifts are her beauty, brilliance, charm, and graciousness. Nature has coupled these with her innate, core attributes of courageousness, fairness, honor, being a giving soul, and true friend. A brave and truthful historian, Mimi has established herself as the guardian and tireless activist for Hispanic culture, heritage, and the presence and the contributions of Hispanic Americans in the history of the United States, and those that graced the world. Through Somos Primos, she’s preserved them for posterity as an executive, genealogist, writer, and researcher.

Without her efforts and hard work, we would not have recovered and informed the world of Hispanic accomplishments. As Francisco J. Barragán-ask “Paco” said, “Mimi and her creation, ‘Somos Primos,’ a priceless encyclopedia, are of incalculable value”! For all of this and many, many other reasons, she was named the 2006 Woman of the Year by Costa Mesa, California Assemblyman Van Tran. As a person, Mimi has and will continue to have a great positive impact on the education, culture, and history of the worldwide Hispanic Community and Hispanic Americans in the United States.

I close this on a personal note. I met Mimi or Dearest as I call her, over thirty years ago, while searching for guidance in the area of genealogical research. We became fast friends, and soon she was my mentor. What a wonderful journey it has been. As she aided and tutored me, I began my family research, which culminated with “Family History The de Riberas,” my Mum's ancestors. Mimi graciously allowed me to publish it in Somos Primos in monthly installments.

Here I now offer a meaningful quote, “The family is one of nature’s masterpieces.” – George Santayana. In my case, the search for my family history was a labor of love. A family picture began to emerge, almost bringing some ancestors back to life. In time, I learned enough about some to feel as though I know them. They are all now my family, thus my love for my ancestors, the de Riberas of Nuevo Méjico. The experience has changed my life and perceptions of family.

Dearest, thank you and Win for the love, many kindnesses, and helping me to finally find myself through the learning of where I came from and who my progenitors were. I’m finally home and forever grateful to you two.

Michael S. Pérez y de Ribera
michael perez michaelsperez1234@gmail.com

I am glad to have Connected the East Coast Primos to the West Coast Primos
Joe Sanchez

THANK YOU, MIMI, FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE AS EDITOR OF SOMOS PRIMOS MAGAZINE.

WE ARE GOING TO MISS YOU AND THE MONTHLY SOMOS PRIMOS ISSUES. I AM GLAD TO HAVE CONNECTED THE EAST COAST PRIMOS TO THE WEST COAST PRIMOS.

HUGS AND GOD BLESS, -JOE
bluewall@mpinet.net

John P. Schmal

Thanks Mimi, for working so hard over the last two decades to publish this online newsletter each month. You gave me an opportunity to collect my information about Indigenous Mexico and post it in your newsletter over the years, and I am grateful for that opportunity.

You and Win have also provided me with a nice spot to collect many of my presentations and stories from over the years at:

http://www.somosprimos.com/schmal/schmal.htm

And now I also have my own website at: https://indigenousmexico.org/articles-by-state/

So, Mimi, thanks for your dedication to producing a newsletter that includes so many articles about culture and history.

Wish you well, John P. Schmal

THANKS FOR 20 YEARS OF ENLIGHTENMENT!

Sat, Oct 5, 2019

Robert Thonhoff
derkatz001@gmail.com

Dearest Mimi:

I wish to take this opportunity to thank you for all that you have been in my life! I have known you and read your magnificent online magazine, SOMOS PRIMOS, almost since its very first publication in the year 2000. [ How time flies!] It was an extra special pleasure to meet you personally during your visit to San Antonio, Texas, about ten years ago.

There is an old German saying (probably a Spanish one, too) that goes, “Alle guten Dinge kommen zur Ende,”which means that “All good things come to an end.” Such is the case for your wonderful SOMOS PRIMOS ONLINE MAGAZINE, whose December 2019 issue will be its last.

I was very pleased to learn that all SOMOS PRIMOS issues, 2000-2019, will remain online indefinitely. You, Mimi, have left a great legacy of enlightenment that will be appreciated by many generations yet to come.

I will always be especially grateful to you, Mimi, for your disseminating the information in my Quadrilogy of Essays, which tell the story of how the contributions of Spain and its colonies all over the world, including Texas, were vital in the winning of the American Revolution, from which we gained the freedom and opportunity that Americans still enjoy—and defend—today.

I consider these essays, in English and Spanish, to be the most meaningful and significant pieces of history that I have ever written. I am pleased to say that these essays can be found and read online at www.granaderos.org .

So, dearest Mimi, thousands upon thousands—maybe even millions upon millions—of people all over the world will always be grateful for all the enlightenment that you have brought into our lives.

I wish you a blessed, happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement!

Your Texan friend, Robert H. Thonhoff
San Antonio, Texas

"A Special Tribute To A Great Editor and Publisher"
by J. Gilberto Quezada
JQUEZADA@satx.rr.com

Lamentably, the Commemorative 2019 December issue of Somos Primos will be the final edition for your readers to relish and enjoy, and it saddens me to know that this wonderful, instructive, informative, and interesting magazine will cease to exist, and that is why I named it a Commemorative Issue. As a writer and essayist, I wrote this special tribute in your honor. It is my humble way of paying homage and it is also my valedictory salute to you from the bottom of my heart. Opening your website on my laptop every month to read Somos Primos was like getting a burst of sunlight through the screen and a red, white, and blue rainbow appeared. As I finished the latest issue, I reflected on the thought that I was not just passing the time reading the elucidating stories, but rather, that it is the way that wisdom gets passed along on a monthly basis. And what your faithful readers and I have read in Somos Primos will help us to live a life worth remembering.

You have achieved a tremendous accomplishment and a significant milestone in your career for editing and publishing Somos Primos for ten years as print quarterlies and then for twenty more years as a monthly online magazine. Please accept my wholehearted Congratulations! And all these years, with your outstanding editorial skills, your professionalism, and the stories that were published, your vision and courage in starting Somos Primos has been a stimulation of the soul and spirit for me and for so many others. You have lead your magazine to national and international prominence. Moreover, you are such a brilliant leader, but more than that, you use your heart combined with your zest, enthusiasm, and foresightedness to make extraordinary things happen every month. Under your leadership, Somos Primos has made tremendous breakthroughs in the literary world, and you took it to a much higher level.

I was always looking forward to the next issue with great anticipation, and see how I could enhance the quality of my submissions so that your magnificent magazine could continue to be the hallmark of excellent journalism. You were always two steps ahead of me and I liked that because I knew I was blessed when you accepted my first essays. And what a joy and an adventure it has been to be a part of your dear and close to your heart literary project. I know that you acknowledged the people who contribute to Somos Primos, and I being one of them, but honestly, the magazine would not be the same without you. I thoroughly enjoyed working with you in fulfilling your life's mission, goals and objectives. Thank you for the opportunity you so generously gave me to share some thoughts about my own life experiences and on other topics that I thought would be of interest to you and your readers.

Mimi, you are one of the most remarkable women of the 20th and the 21st centuries! Your outstanding work and diligence as the Editor and Publisher is not an echo but a real and genuine voice for the Hispanic heritage in the United States. Too bad the mold was only used once. When will the next one be discovered? You and your contributors have done an excellent job in presenting instructive articles that support the importance of your vision. Somos Primos has established itself as the voice for our Hispanic roots and for the promotion of family history. I want to take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude and appreciation for all your hard work, dedication, and effort over the course of thirty years in providing a literary avenue for people to write engaging and insightful essays about our Hispanic cultural and historical heritage. Because of your magazine, you have touched thousands of people all over the world and you have inspired them to work on their family history.

By reading your life story as part of your family history series, I have admired your path to success, you are "un módelo para seguir para muchas jóvenes." While growing up you defied all expectations and continued with your education at UCLA. People love you for many reasons, but the reason that outshines all others is your ability to inspire others to become true advocates for our historical and cultural heritage--nuestra herencia. I commend you for providing America and the world with a serious, respectable and responsible voice that speaks honestly, candidly, and nobly about our Hispanic history, culture, and heritage as a living legacy.

You have continuously encouraged your readers to do their own family history, and most important, you challenged your readers last year (2018) by asking them to adopt writing their own personal history as a New Year's resolution. To get them started with their birth information, you even provided them with ten fill in the blanks survey. And, you have lead by a perfect example, by publishing your own family story, beginning with Chapter One--the story of your birth in the January 2018 issue, and was followed by subsequent chapters every month, leading up to your insightful and engaging family history with Chapter 23 in the November 2019 issue entitled, "Mimi's Stories, Chapter 23: Golden West College, Puppetry and the Office of Bilingual Education and Minority Affairs"(Heritage Project). And, every month I have enjoyed reading your fascinating personal stories. I sincerely appreciate your generosity in sharing them with us. They are beautifully crafted and are an inspiration to me and to all your readers.

Mimi, your portrait hangs high in my pantheon of admired people. You are, indeed, a figure of indisputable magnitude.

And, it is because of your energy, hard work, enthusiasm, inspiration, and foresight, but most importantly, because of your vision for what this magazine should be about that you have earned and deserve the National Association of Hispanic Publications' (NAHP) José Marti 2018 Silver Award as Outstanding EPublications, a monumental award indeed. Congratulations! I am so happy for you and very proud of your achievements for garnering this prestigious honor. For three decades, you have inspired millions of people all over the world with your excellent monthly online magazine.

And please accept my most heartfelt CONGRATULATIONS and sincere best wishes on your retirement. I hope and pray to be as mentally and intellectually active and alert, in fourteen more years, as you are now. As I get on in years, now my third year as a septuagenarian and reflect back on those individuals who have meant the most to me throughout my lifetime, I am grateful to you for the many ways in which you have touched my life. For me, it has been an honor to work alongside someone whose life's commitment to our Hispanic culture and historical heritage is tireless and ceaseless. I am, indeed, blessed to know you and call you a friend.

Mimi, a duras penas, yo y muchos respetamos tu decisión de jubilarte, pero todos sabemos que te vamos a extrañar a ti principalmente, y claro, también a tu revista. Me siento tan agradecido por haberte tenido como mi colega y amigo del alma. Aunque no lo creas, pero yo logre aprender mucho de tu sabiduria, liderazgo, y tu generosidad. Que Dios te bendiga y te cuide y te reine de bendiciones a ti y a toda tu familia. Te voy a extrañar.

There is no doubt that with the Commemorative 2019 December issue of Somos Primos, you are going to leave deep footprints in our minds, hearts, and souls through a life of love for your vision and memorable monthly stories for us to cherish and reminisce for the rest of our lives. I feel privileged to have crossed your path. Though one part of your journey is ending, I know more blessings and joy await. Take very good care of yourself and may God continue to bless you abundantly, and may His presence and guidance be always with you in your halcyon years.

Mimi, you are a distinguished lady, and more important, I am going to miss you, we are all going to miss you, but we know that you have left us an everlasting legacy, one that, as always, will leave the world a better place because of you.

With my wholehearted gratitude and affection,

Gilberto

The "end of part of the road" by Albert Vela, Ph.D.

Thank you, Mimi, for the delightful Christmas Card. I will add about the "end of part of the road" announcement you made re future quarterly SomosPrimos -- that tho' you had let us know about this back in Sept 2019, still and all it hit me as a shock. . . .life goes on, I know, but a big "something" will be missing as part of my routine n life. . . You've been a big part of my life, Mimi. Know how much I esteem n love you. . . Fondly, al

Albert Vela, Ph.D.