Mexillence Blog

Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.: Mexican Boxing Success

2011-11-19T20:58:00.000-08:00

Jullio Cesar Chavez Jr.

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Current WBC Middleweight Champion

2. Remains undefeated as a professional boxer.

3. Demonstrates consistency in a professional career.

Tonight, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. defended the WBC Middleweight Championship against Peter Manfredo Jr. In the 5th round, Chavez Jr. won and demonstrated his consistent success as a professional boxer.

Chavez Jr. (right) with his father (left)

Background:

Chavez Jr. is originally from Culiacan, Sinaloa (Mexico). He is the son of Julio Cesar Chavez, who won 6 world championships in 3 different weight divisions. As a child, he would accompany his father during his fights. Consequently, Chavez Jr. became easily recognized as the son of the former boxer. Eventually, Chavez Jr. began to train and follow the path of his father in the ring by his own account. Chavez Jr. participated in only 2 amateur bouts.

Professional Career:

Chavez Jr. debuted as a professional at 17 years-old and maintains an impressive boxing record. Chavez Jr. displays a record of 44-wins, 0-loses, 1-draw, and 1-no-contest. Throughout his career, Chavez Jr. has never lost and has won 5 different boxing championships. With tonight's win, Chavez Jr. maintains the WBC Middleweight Championship.

Bianca Marroquin: First Mexican-American Star On Broadway

2011-11-19T09:51:00.001-08:00

Bianca Marroquin

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. First Mexican-American to perform a starring role on Broadway.

2. Demonstrates consistent success in a professional career.

3. Fluent in English and Spanish.

While watching news about the most recent cartel violence I saw a commercial about a current soap opera. After viewing the commercial, I was confused. I thought: What is Bianaca Marroquin doing in a soap opera????

Marroquin

Background:

Marroquin is originally from the border cities of Matamoros, Tamaulipas (Mexico) and Brownsville, Texas. As a result, Marroquin was raised as a Mexican-American. In Texas, she studied ballet, jazz, flamenco and tap. In Mexico, she studied communications.

Marroquin

Career:

Marroquin decided to pursue a theatre career and moved to Mexico City. At the beginning of her career, Marroquin participated n several Mexican productions of Broadway musicals. Eventually, she was noticed and invited to perform in more recent production of Chicago at the Shubert Theatre (Broadway). After her Broadway debut, Marroquin returned to Mexico City for a few more Mexican productions.

In 2010, Marroquin returned to Broadway to perform in the play In The Heights. More recently, Marroquin participates as a judge in Mexican talent competitions. Additionally, Marroquin stars as the main protagonist in the telenovela Esperanza Del Corazon. Although Spanish television is often considered less prestigious than Broadway, Marroquin demonstrates that her acting talent transcends different venues.

Cain Velasquez: First Mexican-American Heavyweight Champion

2011-11-13T08:19:00.001-08:00

Cain Velasquez

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Born in Salinas, California.

2. Became the first Mexican heavyweight champion in any sport.

3. Displays a tattoo across his chest that reads Brown Pride.

I have never felt like crying after an athletic competition until now. Cain Velasquez accurately represents the Brown Pride tattooed across his chest. Velasquez overcame so many obstacles and with one blow to the side of his head last night, he lost the UFC World Heavyweight Championship.

Velasquez with his tattoo

Background:

Velasquez was born in Salinas, California and raised mostly in Yuma, Arizona. During high school, Velasquez won the 5A Arizona Wrestling Championship twice. After high school, Velasquez attended Iowa Central Community College and won the NJCAA National Championship. After earning his Associates Degree, Velasquez attended and graduated from Arizona State University (ASU). While at ASU, Velasquez was ranked 5th in 2005 and 4th in 2006 for NCAA wrestling. Most importantly at ASU, Velasquez earned his Bachelors Degree in Education.

Velasquez winning the championship

Professional Career:

Velasquez joined the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose, California after completing college. Ever since he started training Velasquez began to dominate the heavyweight category in mixed martial arts. Finally in 2010, Velasquez defeated Brock Lesnar and became the UFC Heavyweight Champion. However, Velasquez lost the title yesterday.

Juan Manuel Marquez: Mexican Boxing Success

2011-11-13T08:18:00.001-08:00

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Demonstrates an example of persistence in spite initial defeat.

2. Won eight world championships in three different boxing weight classes.

3. Ranked as the #5 pound-for-pound fighter by Ring Magazine.

Last night was the highly anticipated Marquez VS Pacquiao III bout. Although Marquez lost via decision, he remains an example of perseverance and determination to succeed in a professional career.

Background:

Marquez during a fight

Marquez is originally from Mexico City, Distrito Federal (in Mexico). Marquez began training for boxing at an early age and has never stopped. As an amateur, Marquez compiled a record of 35 wins- 1 loss and won 2 Golden Glove Tournaments.

Professional Career:

Marquez lost his first professional fight via disqualification. However, Marquez remained persistent and did not lose for the next 6 years. In the process, Marquez captured the WBO NABO Featherweight Championship. Counting last night, Marquez displays a professional record of 54 wins-5 loses-1 draw. Throughout his career Marquez has changed weight classes and won 7 more championships. Even though he lost his first fight, Marquez remained persistent with his professional career.

Eva Longoria: Well-Paid Mexican American Actress

2011-11-06T22:39:00.001-08:00

Eva Longoria

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Persevered through initial struggles in order to pursue her career as an actress.

2. Demonstrates an example of Mexican-American success.

3. One of the highest-paid actresses.

This year Eva Longoria was named one of the highest-paid actresses on television. Although she is now an established star on Desperate Housewives, Longoria found success through perseverance.

Longoria

Background:

Longoria was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. Her Mexican-American heritage can be traced through history as her ancestors settled in Texas when Texas was part of Mexico. Longoria experienced a traditional Mexican-American upbringing. However, she experienced obstacles early in life as her family suffered from financial struggles. Moreover, Longoria was declined from a modeling agency because of her height (5'2"). After her high school graduation, she attended Texas A&M University (at Kingsville) and received a Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology.

Career:

As she completed her bachelor's degree, Longoria entered and won Miss Corpus Christi in 1998. After her college graduation, she entered another talent contest and was signed by a theatrical agent in Los Angeles, California.

In 2000, Longoria made her debut as an actress in an episode of Beverly Hills, 90210. Although relatively unknown, she remained persistent and made more guest appearances on soap operas, such as General Hospital and The Young And The Restless. Eventually, her recurring appearances provided more national recognition for her abilities as an actress. Longoria even pursued her career as an actress in small films.

Longoria on Desperate Housewives

Finally in 2004, Longoria debuted on Desperate Housewives. Ever since her debut she remains an integral part of the television series. At around $13 million a year, Longoria easily became one of the highest-paid television actresses. Along with her success as an actress, Longoria has become one of the most identifiable Mexican-Americans in the United States.

Her prominence as an actress provides Longoria the opportunity to participate in several advertising campaigns. She has campaigned for Bebe Sport, L'Oreal, Hanes, Magnum Ice-Cream, and Heineken.

Longoria at a charity event

Other Ventures:

Longoria is continually featured on several magazines, such as People, People En Espanol, Maxim, FHM, and Vogue. In fact, she is often regarded as one of the most beautiful Mexican-Americans in several publications. Most recently, Longoria appeared as #14 in People's Most Beautiful List of 2011.

Aside from her professional career as an actress and model, Longoria participates in several philanthropic organizations. Longoria occasionally donates her time and resources to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Salma Hayek: Successful Mexican-American Actress

2011-11-06T22:39:00.000-08:00

Salma Hayek

Reasons For Mexillence:
1. Sets an example for others to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

2. Demonstrates consistent success in the entertainment profession.

3. Breast-fed a third-world child.

On the weekend of October 28, Puss In Boots became the highest grossing movie ever to debut on a Halloween weekend. Even before grossing more than $34 million, Puss In Boots may boast its well-known cast. Specifically, Salma Hayek is easily one of the most recognized Mexican-American actresses.

Background:

Hayek at the Golden Globes

Hayek is originally from Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz (Mexico). At the age of twelve, Hayek attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau, Louisiana. After her education in the United States, Hayek returned to Mexico and attended the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City and studied International Relations.

Career:

After college, Hayek began to pursue an acting career. In 1988, Hayek debuted in a Mexican soap opera. Since then, Hayek has starred in over 10 television shows and more than 35 different movies. Throughout her career Hayek has earned admiration for her continuous work ethic as an actress. Most notably, Hayek was nominated for awards with her leading role in the biographical film, Frida.

Hayek at a hotel

Other Ventures:

Hayek remains active in her community. For instance, Hayek has worked to raise awareness on violence against women and discrimination against immigrants. In fact, Hayek supported the Violence Against Women Act and donated $25,000 to a women's shelter in her hometown. Moreover, Hayek supports breastfeeding and participated in a campaign where she breastfed a hungry child in Sierra Leone (video below).

Ron Rivera: Mexican-American Success In NFL

2011-10-30T23:20:00.000-07:00

Ron Rivera

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Serves as an example of tenacity as he continually finds success in the National Football League (NFL).

2. Displays consistent success in the same field of expertise.

3. Competed in a Super Bowl as a player and as a coach.

Ron Rivera is currently the head coach of the Carolina Panthers. Although he has proven successful as a head coach, Rivera experienced success in the NFL long before.

Early Career:

Rivera began playing football at Seaside High School in Seaside, California. After high school, Rivera received a scholarship for the University of California, Berkeley (Cal). In college, Rivera developed as a player and even held records at Cal.

Professional Career As A Linebacker:

Rivera entered the 1984 NFL Draft. Rivera was selected in the second round by the Chicago Bears. Rivera debuted for the Bears shortly after. During the 1985 season, Rivera played and celebrated as the Bears defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XX. Rivera remained an integral part of the Bears defense until his retirement in 1992.

Career As A Coach:

Ron Rivera

In 1997, Rivera began his coaching career as the defensive quality coach for the Chicago Bears. In 1999, Rivera became the linebackers coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2004, Rivera returned to the Bears as the defensive coordinator. In 2007, Rivera became the linebackers coach for the San Diego Chargers. In 2008, Rivera was promoted by the Chargers to defensive coordinator. Finally, Rivera became head coach of the Carolina Panthers at the beginning of the 2011 season.

Jaime Garcia: Mexican-American Success In MLB

2011-10-29T23:38:00.000-07:00

Jaime Garcia

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Became the first Mexican pitcher to start in a World Series since Fernando Valenzuela in 1981.

2. Overcame different obstacles to pursue a career.

3. Serves as an example for others to pursue a career in spite of obstacles.

As the St. Cardinals celebrate their 11th World Series Championship, one of their starting pitchers has more reasons to celebrate. Jaime Garcia moved to the United States in order to pursue his professional baseball career.

Background:

Garcia is originally from Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. As a result, Garcia was raised between the border of Reynosa (Mexico) and McAllen, Texas. Garcia attended Sharyland High School in Mission, Texas.

Professional Career:

Jaime Garcia

Garcia entered the 2004 MLB Draft and was selected in the 30th round by the Baltimore Orioles. However, after translation mishaps, Garcia opted to re-enter during the next draft. In the 2005 MLB Draft, Garcia was selected in the 22nd round by the St. Louis Cardinals. In 2008, Garcia debuted against the Pittsburgh Pirates as a relief pitcher.

Following the 2008 season, Garcia underwent surgery to repair his throwing arm. As a result, Garcia missed most of the 2009 season and returned to the minor leagues. Fortunately, Garcia overcame the surgery and the minor leagues.

In 2010 Garcia began his fist complete season in the MLB as a starting pitcher. Since then, Garcia has continued to improve as a pitcher. At the beginning of the current 2011 season, Garcia moved up as the number three starting pitcher for the Cardinals. Eventually, the Cardinals advanced through the playoffs and won the World Series Championship. Garcia helped throughout the playoffs and started Game 2 of the World Series.

Subcomandante Marcos: Social Justice Before Occupy Wallstreet

2011-10-22T23:59:00.000-07:00

Subcomandante Marcos

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Pursues social justice in spite of the various threats made to his life.

2. Sacrifices his own identity for the improvement of society.

3. Spokesperson for the EZLN (Zapatista Army Of National Liberation).

As the Occupy Wall Street movement continues, one can wonder: When was the last time the 99% protested against the wealthiest 1%?

In January 1994, Subcomandante Marcos led an army of Mayan farmers to protest the treatment of indigenous peoples by the Mexican government. At that particular instant, nearly all government officials were the most corrupt and wealthiest people in Mexico. As a result, they oppressed the native Americans in southern Mexico into a poverty state. Marcos organized the people and put an end to the abuse in the state of Chiapas. In spite of his accomplishments toward social justice, no one is certain of the identity of Marcos.

As A Political Leader:

Marcos constantly wears a ski mask to conceal his identity since several wealthy individuals and government officials seek his assassination. Those that desire his assassination are upset that Marcos instilled political consciousness among the underprivileged in Mexico. Prior to Marcos, several indigenous peoples surrendered their land and possessions when ordered by wealthier and more powerful individuals. In fact, some of the indigenous peoples lacked the concept of property and were taken advantage by wealthier individuals and government officials. Marcos organized the oppressed people and they established their own territory in the sate of Chiapas in Mexico--free of government corruption.

Accomplishments:

Marcos is an author, political poet, humorist, and an opponent of capitalism. Marcos has advocated amending the Mexican constitution to recognize the rights of indigenous people.

As an author, Marcos has written more than 200 essays and stories and has published 21 books documenting his political and philosophical views.

Marcos is the spokesperson of the EZLN. Since the EZLN control territory in Chiapas, Marcos is the leader of the particular territory.

Speculations About Identity:

A popular speculation suggests that Marcos is Rafael Sebastian Guillen Vicente. Guillen attended and graduated from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) with a major in Philosophy. At UNAM, Guillen specialized in Marxist rhetoric and won an award for the best dissertation of his class. Guillen worked as a professor at the Autonomous Metropolitan University (UAM) while finishing his dissertation at UNAM. After a few years Guillen left and presumably contacted the Forces of National Liberation, which is associated to EZLN. The family of Guillen is unaware of his whereabouts and neglect several coincidental dates.

Hilda Solis: Celebrating Another Birthday With Success

2011-10-20T22:45:00.000-07:00

Reasons For Mexillence:

Hilda Solis

1. Overcame her underprivileged background to pursue education.

2. Serves as the current United States Secretary of Labor under the Obama Administration.

3. Served in the United States House of Representatives from 2001 to 2009.

Today, Hilda Solis celebrates her 53rd birthday! Solis has various reasons to celebrate. Even though she is now considered a well-established politician, Solis overcame obstacles from an early age.

Background:

Hilda Solis

Solis is the daughter of immigrant parents that met in the citizenship class. As the third oldest from seven siblings, Solis helped raise her siblings. When she was near her high school graduation she was discouraged by a guidance counselor from pursuing her education. However, Solis persevered and graduated from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona in 1979 with a B.A. in political science and later graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master of Public Administration.

Early Career:

Hilda Solis

While finishing her education, Solis interned and worked briefly under the Carter Administration and Reagan Administration in Washington D.C. After returning to California in 1982, Solis became the director of the California Student Opportunity and Access Program and helped disadvantaged youth gain necessary preparation for college.

In 1985, Solis became a member for the Board of Trustees of the Rio Hondo Community College District. As a board member, Solis worked towards improved vocational job training at the college and sought to increase the number of tenured faculty positions held by minorities and women.

Political Career:

In 1991 Solis was nominated as a commissioner of the Los Angeles County Commission on Insurance by Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina, a political mentor. Solis also served as chief of staff for State Senator Art Torres.

After gaining political experience, Solis was elected and served as member of the California State Assembly from the 57th district from 1992 to 1994. Then, Solis was elected to the California Senate from the 24th district from 1994 to 2001. Finally, Solis was elected and served as a member of the United States House of Representatives until she was nominated by President Obama to serve as the United States Secretary of Labor.

Yovani Gallardo: Mexican-American Success In MLB

2011-10-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

Yovani Gallardo

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Persevered through minor leagues to become a starting pitcher in the MLB (Major League Baseball)

2. Selected to the 2010 MLB All-Star Game and started in the 2011 MLB Playoffs.

3. Serves as an example for others interesting in pursuing a career in the MLB.

It's midway through October and the MLB Playoffs are well underway. Even though the Milwaukee Brewers face elimination tomorrow, the achievements from their starting pitcher still provides reasons to celebrate their success this season. In fact, his success as a player often overshadows his personal accomplishments. During his youth, Yovani Gallardo moved from a small ranch near Penjamillo, Michoacan (in Mexico) to Forth Worth, Texas in search of a better life.

In Forth Worth, Gallardo progressed through school, graduated from high school, and sought to improve his financial situation. As a result, Gallardo entered the 2004 MLB Draft.

Professional Baseball Career:

Although he was drafted in the second round of the 2004 MLB Draft, Gallardo would have to prove himself worthy of the MLB in the minor leagues. For almost two years Gallardo endured through the unpredictability of the minor leagues. Finally during the 2007 season, Gallardo debuted for the Milwaukee Brewers. Since his debut, Gallardo has improved from a solid player to a starting pitcher. In fact, Gallardo has produced impressive statistics.

MLB Accomplishments (through today):

Yovani Gallardo

Record: 53-34

Earned Run Average: 3.63

Strikeouts: 712

Shutouts: 3

2007 Season : debuted for the Milwaukee Brewers

Yovani Gallardo

2008 Season: first time Gallardo started a playoff game

2009 Season: became the first pitcher to hit a home run with Randy Johnson as the pitcher

2010 Season: selected to his first MLB All-Star Game for his regular season pitching and was awarded the Silver Slugger Award for his regular season batting

For the current 2011 season, Gallardo finished the regular season with a 17-10 record with 207 strikeouts (5th in MLB). During the playoffs, Gallardo has helped the Brewers advance to the NLCS (National League Championship Series). In fact, Gallardo was the starting pitcher for a couple of the victories. If the Brewers continue in the playoffs, Gallardo will most likely continue his impressive performance.

LULAC: Organization Seeking Social Justice

2011-10-15T19:21:00.000-07:00

Reasons For Mexillence:

Official LULAC Logo

1. Largest and oldest Hispanic organization in the United States.

2. Main purpose is to curtail discrimination.

3. Provide different opportunities for political involvement.

As the current National Hispanic Heritage Month draws to a close today, one may observe the accomplishments of organizations under the classification of Hispanic or Latino. For instance, one of the most significant advocacy organization for Hispanics is the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).

History:

Established in 1929, the main purpose of LULAC is to curtail discrimination against Hispanics may in the United States and promote assimilation into United States culture. As a result, LULAC focuses on education, civil rights, and employment for Hispanics.

Notable Work:

LULAC "successfully sued to integrate the Orange County School System" and to include Mexican-Americans on the jury duty system. Also, LULAC has “responded to an alarming increase in xenophobia and anti-Hispanic sentiment” with “seminars and public symposiums on language and immigration issues.”

Inclusiveness:

LULAC includes countless individuals with its name. Specifically, the term Latin American encompasses all nationalities—not just Mexican-Americans. In fact, LULAC membership is open to everyone. Additionally, LULAC constantly incorporates involvement opportunities for more specific groups such as youth, young adults, women, and the elderly. For example, LULAC often sponsors events designed for everyone—from children to seniors.

Current Involvement:

LULAC continues an active role as its “councils across the United States hold voter registration drives, citizenship awareness sessions, sponsor health fairs and tutorial programs, and raise scholarship money for the LULAC National Scholarship Fund.” Moreover, LULAC sponsors multiple events each month that range from conferences to award ceremonies. Regardless of the event, all individuals are invited and may attend. Also, more information is available on the official LULAC website.

“History.” LULAC. <http://lulac.org/about/history/>. 26 September, 2011.

Rosa Gumataotao Rios: Success Through Persaverance

2011-10-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

Rosa Gumataotao Rios

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Became Treasurer of the United States.

2. Transitioned toward politics in order to follow her passion.

3. Serves as an example for others that are unsure whether to pursue different careers.

Look at any recently-printed paper currency from the United States. The signature on the left side (the one labeled Treasurer of the United States) is most likely mispronounced by the same Americans that routinely utilize the currency. That name was first signed by Rosa Gumataotao Rios on August 6, 2009; a few days before being sworn in as treasurer.

Rios's Achievement:

Rosa Gumataotao Rios

Rios is the sixth Latina and third consecutive Californian to occupy the office. Early in her career, Rios was involved in economic development in northern California for cities such as: Union City, San Leandro, and Oakland. Then, Rios moved on to consulting and worked for a few firms. Eventually, Rios transitioned toward politics and volunteered for the campaign of President Obama. Finally, Rios was sworn in as Treasurer of the United States in August, 20 2009.

Rios's Background:

Rios lived most of her live in Alamdeda County, in California. Rios graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and Romance Languages and Literature. Rios was sworn in as Treasurer of the United States in August, 20 2009.

SPM: Another Birthday Awaiting Social Justice

2011-10-07T17:08:00.000-07:00

SPM

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Persevered through poverty and pursued a successful career.

2. Regarded often as the "Mexican 2Pac."

3. Remains hopeful in the American justice system.

Happy Birthday SPM:

A couple of days ago, it was SPM's birthday. SPM has many reasons to celebrate. SPM persevered through the notorious South Park neighborhood of Houston, Texas and eventually became one of the most successful independent artists ever. Although he remained independent for most of his career, SPM recorded 6 albums that charted on the Billboard 200. Unfortunately, SPM cannot celebrate properly since he remains in prison.
Background:

SPM experienced a troubled childhood, like countless other Mexican-Americans. SPM experienced poverty, family problems, drug trafficking, and dropped out of high school. However, SPM did not surrender to the social injustice. He earned his GED, worked whenever possible (mostly for minimum wage), and sought to improve his life. Finally, SPM discovered music and became one of the most successful Mexican-American rappers.

SPM accomplishments:

SPM before prison

SPM founded Dope House Records and released ten albums (Hillwood, Hustle Town, Power Moves, The 3rd Wish, The Purity Album, Time Is Money, Never Change, Reveille Park, When Devils Strike, and The Last Chair Violinist). SPM is widely recognized as the best Mexican rapper. In fact, many refer to SPM as the Mexican 2Pac for his lyrical ability, continual success, and portrayal of society through music.

SPM Conviction:

SPM in prison

As SPM was beginning to enjoy his success, the social injustices returned. SPM was accused of molestation and arrested on September 25, 2001. SPM explains that he is innocent and that the mother of the supposed seeks to avenge a previous relationship. Even more troubling, the case revolved around the mother's accusations (not the supposed victim)--without any physical evidence--and the troubled past of SPM. In a way, SPM was put on trial for his past instead of the actual charges. SPM was sentenced to 45 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. SPM persists that he is innocent and remains hopeful that more evidence will appear to clear his name. In the meantime, one can observe his deterioration in prison and remember the title of his 6th album, Time Is Money.

Tom Flores: Opening Doors With The "RAY-DAS" (Raiders)

2011-10-01T19:18:00.000-07:00

Tom Flores

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Pursued career and became successful in spite of the initial obstacles.

2. Opened the door for many Mexican-Americans in the NFL.

3. Only person to win at least one Super Bowl as a quarterback, assistant coach, and head coach.

Last Sunday Night Football, the NFL and NBC observed the begining of National Latino Heritage Month. As they introduced the Pittsburgh Steelers as "Los Acereros De Pittsburgh," I began to wonder who was the first Mexican-American to demonstrate Mexillence in the NFL.

Flores as Head Coach

After consideration, Tom Flores is perhaps the first influential Mexican-American in the NFL. Flores is most known for leading the Los Angeles Raiders to victories in Super Bowl XV and XVIII as their head coach. However, many often overlook the doors that Flores opened for minorities in the NFL, especially Mexican-Americans.

Flores's Hisory:

Flores as head coach

Flores played for and graduated from the University of the Pacific in 1958. Initially, Flores did not find many offers to pursue his career as a professional athlete. In fact, he was cut by the Clagary Stampeders (CFL) and the Washington Redskins (NFL). However, Flores persevered, joined the Oakland Raiders, and became the first Hispanic starting quarterback in professional football. After his career as a player, Flores pursued a coaching career with equal success. Flores is the only person ever to win at least one Super Bowl as a quarterback, assistant coach, and head coach. Flores demonstrates that perseverance can open any door.

Dr. Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa Will Speak At San Joaquin Delta College

2011-10-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

Dr. Q

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Persevered through obstacles in the United States to become a neurosurgeon.

2. Pursued a better life to the best of his ability.

3. Provides an example for others interested in pursuing fields where Mexican-Americans are underrepresented.

Event Itself:

On October 8, 2011, Dr. Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa will deliver his lecture, "From Migrant Farm Worker To Brain Surgeon," at San Joaquin Delta College (in Stockton, CA).

At first, you may ask: how can a neurosurgeon relate to a migrant farm worker? Is he promoting some charity event out of guilt? No!

Dr. Q's Accomplishments:

Dr. Q is a renowned neurosurgeon at John Hopkins University. Like millions of other immigrants, from the pilgrims to the communist-fearing Asians, Dr. Q entered the United States illegally. However, Dr. Q has a unique story.

Dr. Q

Dr. Q was a teacher from the lower middle-class in Mexico. As the economic discrepancy plummeted his family toward poverty, Dr. Q crossed the border illegally into the United States. Initially, Dr. Q worked on the fields experienced the plight of Mexican-American migrant workers and decided to improve his situation. Eventually, Dr. Q earned his citizenship, attended Delta College, transferred to UC Berkeley, and graduated from Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Q is an example for a few specific reasons. First, Dr. Q endured pains as a migrant worker and earned his citizenship. Second, Dr. Q continued to improve and pursued excellence as a student and as a neurosurgeon. Finally, Dr. Q perceviered through all of the obstacles to become an example for others.

Selena Gomez: Commercial Success

2011-09-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

Selena Gomez

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Pursued professional goals since a young age.

2. Maintains commercial success in music.

3. Serves as a positive example for the youth.

Recent Success:

During the summer Selena Gomez & The Scene released their 3rd studio album. Although she is only 19-years-old, Selena Gomez has had and continues to have commercial success with her music. "When The Sun Goes Down" has maintained top-10 postions in several countries, such as in the United States, Mexico, Spain, Canada, Belgium, and Norway.

Single from When The Sun Goes Down:

Selena's Background:

Selena Gomez is originally from Grand Prairie, Texas and has paternal Mexican ancestry. In fact, she is named after another Texan of Mexican ancestry, Selena Quintanilla. Gomez has pursued an acting and musical career since childhood. Even though she has previously enjoyed moderate success with previous work, Gomez is currently a legitamite commercial success.

Selena Gomez demonstrates that young people may find success in spite of age as long as they have dedication.

Aurelio Lopez: From Senor Smoke To Municipal President

2011-09-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

Aurelio "Senor Smoke" Lopez

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Pursued a political career to improve socity to the best of his ability.

2. Achieved several noticeable accomplishments as a pitcher in Major League Baseball.

3. Serves as an example for others that consider switching careers in order to improve society.

The birthday of Aurelio Lopez was a few days ago on September 21, 2011. Although he passed away in 1992, Lopez achieved several accomplishments in both the athletic and political arenas.

Lopez As Senor Smoke:

Lopez played for 11 years in Major League Baseball. Lopez was selected for the 1983 MLB All-Star Game and pitched in the 1984 World Series. Lopez earned the nickname of "Senor Smoke" as a result of his 90+ mph pitches and his Mexican heritage.

Lopez After MLB:

statue of Senor Smoke in his hometown

After retiring from the MLB, Lopez returned to his hometown Tecamachalco, Puebla, Mexico and was elected municipal president, a position similar to city mayor. Instead of negelecting his hometown and remaining in sports, Lopez pursued a political career that would allow him the opportunity to improve society. As a politician, Lopez specifically sought to improve the social conditions in his hometown.

Lopez demonstrates that an individual can select another career for the improvement of society.

Victor Ortiz: Remaining A Mexican-American Gentleman And Hero

2011-09-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Victor Ortiz (in white in the video)

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Overcame a dysfunctional family and economic situation in order to attain and defend the WBC welterweight title.

2. Immediately and publicly apologized after committing a mistake.

3. Accepted responsibility for the repercussions of his mistakes.

Event Itself:

On Saturday night Victor Ortiz entered the anticipated bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. The fight appeared even through the fourth round. However, Ortiz made a mistake and headbutted Mayweather near the conclusion of the fourth round. Immediately after the headbutt, Ortiz recognized his mistake and apologized to Mayweather.

Ortiz after the Mayweather bout

The act of recognizing a mistake and apologizing in public immediately after--even if during a sporting event displays accountability. Ortiz could have proceeded with the advantageous harm. However, he stopped and immediately recognized his mistake.

Unfortunately, Mayweather was not as noble and landed several punches while Ortiz apologized. As a result, Ortiz was knocked on the ground and the referee declared a "knock-out" in favor of Mayweather. In spite of the conclusion of the fight, Ortiz accepted the decision from the referee.

Miguel Hidalgo: Leading Mexico Through Perseverance

2011-09-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

Reasons For Mexillence:

1. Led Mexican people toward independence from oppressive Spanish government.

2. Sought to improve society through avenues beyond his profession (as a Catholic priest).

3. Sacrificed his life in order to preserve equality in society.

During the 201st birthday of Mexico, President Felipe Calderon waved the Mexican flag and gave the traditional "grito." During his shout, Calderon reminded citizens of several of the leaders from the revolution.

Even though the event itself does not directly influence society, the celebration reminded several individuals of the original date. On September 16, 1810, Miguel Hidalgo led mestizos and indigenous people to declare independence from the oppressive Spanish government. You may ask, how is this anything special? How does this contribute to society?

Almost any revolution affects society in a positive way. In general, revolutions result when governments oppress their citizens. In New Spain (now Mexico), the Spanish government created vast differences between the wealthy and the poor. Moreover, mestizo and indigenous people were often marginalized for the benefit of the Spanish.

As a Catholic priest, Hidalgo witnessed the abuse from the Spanish government in their American territory. Eventually, he led a group of people to overthrow Spanish rule and establish a new government. Hidalgo and his group of revolutionaries removed the Spanish aristocracy and established what became the Los Estados Unidos Mexicanos (United Mexican States) or simply, Mexico. Although Mexico still suffers from injustice, Hidalgo began a revolution that at least liberated the Mexican people from an oppressive regime.

Mexico Is Almost 201 Years-Old!

2011-09-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what other current events or people are affecting Mexican culture aside from the drug cartels? The answer is similar to all other cultures. Countless events and persons from Mexican culture continually contribute to society.

The following blogs will describe several events and individuals currently contributing to the improvement of society that are related to Mexican culture.

As we approach Friday, Mexico will celebrate its 101st birthday. The next few blogs will describe some specific events and individuals from the Mexican Revolution and insight about their effects on society.