The LBR was born out of a need to highlight our Latino businesses in Hayward. They are important to the economy of our city. Most often, they set up shop in Hayward, and concern themselves with their business, without participating in civic affairs, in the local schools, in their community, and without considering becoming members of our Hayward Chamber of Commerce. I understand this. Their needs are different, their philosophy is different. I thought, then, let's go to them, find out about them, about their needs, their problems, their successes, their history. I want to be proactive with them, approach them about how to become part of their community.

I approached the Hayward Chamber of Commerce about this idea. Scott Raty thought it was a good one and decided to get behind the project. His vision and courage on this needs to be recognized.

Our first meeting in June of 2004 was attended by attended by six Latino small business owners. Our last meeting, in September of 2004 had 35 attendees, with Latino and non-Latino small business owners.

Our first Tardeada /Mixer is scheduled for Tuesday, October 12, 2004 at Morelia on B Restaurant.

Our LBR Subcommittee is made up of Ramón Parada, Joel Peña, Samuel Fuenzalida, and Mark Salinas, all key people in the development of a healthy Latino business community. All of us agree that the LBR is an important part of our economic community. That is why we meet, every Friday, at 4 pm. in different businesses, especially taquerías.

If you have any ideas and/or suggestions, please contact me at 510.732.2746.

The Hayward Chamber of Commerce works for the economic health of our grand city of Hayward. Peggy, Vesta, Susana and Scott are there to help you. Contact them at www.localcommunities.org

José Francisco Zermeño Cárdenas President	Samuel Eduardo Fuenzalida Vice President
Director

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