2005 Miss Hispanidad

Miss Hispanidad

Regina Coetoi

2004 Queen

2005 Scholarship Program

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I have always believed that dreams can truly become a reality. In present times, when society sometimes seems to be scarce in compassion, understanding, and support, I find it fortunate to find individuals like those who belong to this organization, who dedicate their lives to helping the youth in our community. I’m proud to be part of those who help shape future leaders and extend a helping hand through a scholarship program that motivates females in the Hispanic community.

A little over a year ago I entered this pageant without knowing this would be a lifetime opportunity and a road that would help me grow as a person and a leader. Miss Hispanidad is much more than a pageant. It is much more than a memorable night, a title, or a crown. It is about lifelong friends, a bond among all candidates, a year-long career of serving the community, promoting education, hard work and acting as a catalyst for the Hispanic culture.

Miss Hispanidad has taught me the importance of influencing today's youth so they too can see the value of education and the uniqueness of their heritage. Today's world is one full of tribulations, hardships, and vices. Miss Hispanidad can, and will, do everything to fuel the dreams and hopes of so many who desire to continue their education, grow, and shine; to plant a seed within our youth, which will develop in thirst of success, strong values and morals, and a fervent love for the Latino world and its heritage.

As Miss Hispanidad I have had the opportunity to encounter many individuals whose values and hard work in this community are truly admirable. I thank you all for the support, guidance and love that you have shown me through this reign. It has been an honor to be a part of this organization, and I thank you for allowing me to leave a mark in something that is so special and important that goes as far as reaching into ones heart and releasing our deepest hopes and dreams and a drive to make them a reality.

Sincerely, Regina Coeto Miss Hispanidad 2004

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Rosa Elena Cordoba (18) is a college student who resides with her parent, Arlen and Maria Iride, in Streamwood, IL. Currently, she is attending Elgin Community College (ECC) in hopes of transferring to the University of Illinois to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree. This year Rosa was elected co-vice president of the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS) at ECC. This organization’s mission is to promote education, enhance awareness of Latin American culture, and encourage and support the participation of students within the college and community. The past semester with OLAS, Rosa mentored an at-risk teen at Bartlett High School and attended the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) conference in Philadelphia, PA. Rosa works at the Dundee Animal Hospital where she cares for hospitalized animals and assists both doctors and technicians. In her spare time Rosa enjoys dancing, visiting with her older sister Alex, her brother-in-law Jeff, and their beautiful daughter Karolyna as well as spending time with her parents and friends.

Sponsors: ACO Manufacturing, Inc., Valerie S. Belvedere, Chiddister Motorsport, Inc., Spencer Huebner, Jennifer Johnston, Jeanine R. Karger, Lynne Palka, Daniel Sigman, & Debra J. Sisson

Nancy Penaloza (21) was born in Elgin, and graduated from Elgin High School.

She is currently enrolled at Northern Illinois University. Nancy is planning to graduate with a dual major in Biology and Chemistry. She is also expecting to receive a teacher's certification from NIU. Nancy plans to enter Optometry School after she graduates from NIU. In her spare time, she enjoys baking and watching movies.

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Sponsors: Karen King, Penaloza Family, Karen Ramirez, Rizo Family, Sherman Hospital - CCU

Anabel Martinez (17) was born in Durango, Mexico. Her mother taught her to write before entering kindergarten. She came to the U.S. when she was 5 years old.

She was accepted to SWAS (School Within A School) from 4th to 6th grades. She volunteered as a teacher for first communion classes at Elgin's St. Joseph Church and in middle school, was in the Gifted Program. She made several on-stage appearances as Cookie Monster, Mrs. Frank (from the Diary of Anne Frank), and sang as Marlene Dietrich. She participated in the Culture Club and Peer Helpers.

She is currently a senior at Streamwood High School, where she is studying in the World Languages and International Studies Academy. She volunteers at Gail Borden Public Library and Centro de Informacion. She has participated in the Sign Language Club and Helpers of My Earth. She enjoys learning and appreciating art. She taught herself Web design and has created several personal sites as well as band sites for friends. She has a passion for motion pictures and hopes to create her own someday - her all-time favorite director is Luis Buñuel because of his versatility and courage to express the reality of cultures while at the same time creating creative surreal films. Another passion is photography - her favorite photographer is Arno Rafael Minkkinen. Anabel's passion for art keeps her in love with life, but her main focus has always been on furthering her education. Anabel Martinez is representing Colombia. She plans on attending the University of Illinois at Chicago (Political Science) and afterwards, a Master’s Degree. Her future plans include being a Public Policy Analyst - she will focus on improving the lives of lowincome citizens, Hispanics, and immigrants.

Sponsors: Alianza Hispana, Inc., Mike Cook, Cathy Hamilton, Stephany Hermosa, Suzanne S. Kalfus, Guadalupe Martinez, Ricky Martinez, Montana Realty LTD, Raymond & Patricia Muffler, Scott H. Oberst, Janine O'Neill, Claudia Quiñonez, Ines Quiñonez, Pepa Ramirez, Debra Roerig, Edgar Teodoro, Virgilio & Nida Trinidad, Chris & Luzviminda Villegas

Judy Hernandez (20) was born on February 22, 1985 in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. She is currently attending Elgin Community College where she will soon be certified as a Family Violence Counselor. Additionally, she is taking classes for the Nursing Program at Elgin Community College. She likes to help people so she plans on obtaining an Associate's Degree in Family Violence Counseling and become a Registered Nurse. She dreams of working at St. Jude's Hospital because she believes children are an inspiration to the world. She loves singing, dancing and in her free time likes spending time with friends and family - whether its going out dancing with her friends or having a nice BBQ with her family. A lifelong dream has always been to become a famous singer and obtain professional and personal success.

v Sponsor: The Law Offices of Thomas J. Stiberth

Amanda Myer (18) is graduate of Elgin High School. She works as a Nurse's Assistant at Little Angels in Elgin and a Business Coordinator in Buffalo Grove. In her spare time she enjoys swimming, diving, gymnastics, volleyball and lounging at the beach. She has four cats (Pancho, Peaches, Tiger and Boots) and a turtle (Johnson). In the near future she plans to attend college to obtain her degree in nursing in order to become an RN. Additionally, she would like to pursue a degree in Culinary Arts.

Sponsor: Brandon R. Haupt

Vanessa Ramirez (17) is a confident, strong, and open-minded young lady.

She is currently attending Larkin High School and lives at home with a single, semi-deaf mother. Her future educational plans include attending a 2-year community college and receiving her Associates Degree. She then plans to attend a 4-year college to study either pre-law or business management. She currently works at Lone Star Steakhouse as a Hostess and takes college classes in the summertime through a college-bound program called Upward Bound. Her Interests include singing, reading, playing sports, spending time with her mother, exercising, dancing, photography, using the computer, baking with her grandfather, kickboxing, working on cars, watching movies, collecting toy action figures and model cars, and spending time at the mall. At school she is involved in Cross Cultural Club, Mock Trial, Sabor Latino, and plays badminton and powder puff football. Outside of school, she is a mentor/ choreographer for the children at her church, and does community service for W.A.C.O, the Y-Me Walk for breast cancer, and helps at Sherman Hospital.

She knows sign language, has seen almost all 50 states (college tour), and is a student ambassador for Upward Bound. She recently traveled to Washington D.C. to speak in front of our Illinois Senators on a matter involving the termination of the Upward Bound Program. She plans on taking advantage of any opportunity which will enhance her future and is determined to overcome any and all obstacles. vi

Sponsors: Dina Aranda, Boyce Body Werks, Inc., James T. Dohl, Susan Flores, Kyleen D. Gebhardt, House of Praise, Tracy Johnson , Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon, Lauriella Mason, Jorge Melendez, Rivera's Home Improvement, Martina Rivera, Andrea Rodriguez, Sikorsky Chiropractic Clinic, & Sandra Washington

Elizabeth Hernandez (18) was born in Elgin, Illinois. She attended bilingual classes from preschool through the middle of fourth grade and from there onto regular English classes. She can speak three different languages Spanish and English (fluently) and French (knowledgeable). She was extremely active during her entire time at Elgin High School by joining organizations such as Hispanic Club, Student Council, Class Council, French Club and various sports. She participated in many community-based activities accumulating 430 hours of community service in 4 years while maintaining high academic standards. Said community involvement includes Community Crisis Center, Willow Creek Community Church, Mi Familia Vota 100%, Fiesta Salsa, and March of Dimes. Her involvement in extracurricular activities helped her improve her leadership and communication skills. She recently graduated from Elgin High School being honored at the top of her class. She has received honorable awards and scholarships for her active involvement in her community and school. She will be attending DePaul University in the fall to major in business and a minor in French. She is the daughter of Nereo and Yolanda Hernandez from Elgin. In her spare time, she loves to dance, and play her favorite sport - basketball.

Sponsors: Bellas Fashion (Elvia Gavina), Dippin'Dots (Shawn & Loralee Jensen), Gerardo Hernandez, Lidia's Hair Studio, & Sub-Zero Glacier Corp

Teresa Esquivias (17) presently attends Elgin High School and plans to attend Elgin Community College. Her goal is to become a very successful Real Estate Agent. She has a twin sister named Lupita at St. Edwards High School. She enjoys dancing, her friends, and listening to reggaeton (favorite artist is Daddy Yankee). She has a part-time job working with computers. She especially wants to thank her mother, family and friends.

Sponsors: Hector Alfaro, La Rosita Bakery, Camaroncito Loco, Fernando & Martha Camacho, Leonel Castro, Jose Diaz, Nick's Music Store, & Noemi Vega

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Vanessa Cruz (18) was born in Chicago. Her parents, Alfredo and Austria Cruz have enriched her with Mexican and Ecuadordorian background. She has obtained several awards and acknowledgements throughout her 4 years at John Hersey High School. She was elected Student Graduation Speaker and graduated in the top 15% of her class. She is a State Scholar, (top 10% of Illinois Seniors) and a member in the National Honors Society (NHS) with High Honors. She has a 5.0 GPA (out of 4.0). She was the Captain of the Congressional Debate Team her senior year. This team competes against 20 other schools on the state level. Because of her natural ability with public speaking and long nights of serious research, Vanessa obtained the "Rookie of the Year Award" the two years she was on the team and "1st Place Speaker" and "Critic's Choice Award" in her state tournaments as well. After being a member and an officer of the Latin American Student Organization for 2 years, she became President in her senior year.

In 2004, she traveled to Europe with her school's orchestra and played the violin in Italy, Germany, and Austria. She is a recipient of a Presidential Scholarship to DePaul University in Chicago and will be an Honors student in the Liberal Arts and Sciences College where she intends to double major (Political Science and Communications) with a minor in Spanish. She hopes to become a successful Latino lawyer. She hopes to eliminate negative Latino stereotypes on both academic and professional levels. She intends to utilize the gifts God has given her for His use. She loves her family dearly and says without them she would have accomplished little. She enjoys dancing all kinds of Spanish music and learning about different cultures.

Sponsors: Alfredo & Austria Cruz, William Jaramillo, Roy Gonzalez, Jose Gonzalez, Larry Rogawski & Dario Zanichelli

Brittni Winter Perez (17) was born as a premature baby and weighed in at 4 pounds. From Infancy, she already had many challenges and struggles to overcome. She is now a young lady who has surpassed the obstacles she faced early in her life. She attends Elgin High School as a Senior and holds a GPA of 3.3. While juggling her school life, she also attends Elgin Communtiy College's Upward Bound Program which entails earning college credits and touring different colleges. In addition to this, she provides childcare during the week as well as holding a part-time job. In her spare time she loves to cook and spend time with family and friends. When she graduates from high school she plans to attend college and pursue a degree in Culinary Arts. Presently, Brittni has earned 14 college credits as a result of participating in the Upward Bound Program.

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Sponsors: Celestino Avecedo, Nydia R. Moreno, Luz C. Ortiz, Sergio Perez Jr., Sergio Perez, & Jose Perez

M贸nica Colunga (17) graduated from Larkin High School this year. Throughout her high school years she was involved in many extra curricular activities. She was a member of the National Honor Society and participated in many sowing competitions. She worked hard to graduate with a 3.6 GPA and plans to continue in her education. Her ultimate educational goal is to become an Optometrist.

Becoming a doctor will be hard work, but she is determined to accomplish her goal. This upcoming fall she plans to attend Elgin Community College. She plans to attend Elgin Community College and transfer to a university in order to accomplish her goals. She was taught to do her best in everything, and shoot for the stars. She is very appreciative to her mother and sisters for supporting her dreams. She was born in Texas. She moved to Elgin when she was 3 years old.

Throughout her childhood, her mother and 2 older sisters have stood by her and have allowed her to become an independent young woman. She enjoys playing soccer and sowing. She also enjoys reading and one day hopes to travel around the globe and learn about different cultures.

Sponsors: Saul Ramirez, Esq., & Cristina Colunga

Monica Hernandez (21) is currently in her 4th year at Loyola University of Chicago.

She will be graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a track in Human Resources. She plans to continue her education through graduate school and looks forward to earning a degree in Child Psychology. She hopes to eventually own her own clinic or work in a juvenile delinquent correctional center to help underprivileged children. She is a member of Alpha Psi Lambda Fraternity Inc. at Loyola, which is greatly involved with community service throughout the city of Chicago. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her friends and family and likes to write poetry, act, and dance.

ix Sponsors: Robert J. Klein, Esq.

Yesenia Sanchez (16) was born February 18, 1989 in Chicago and moved to Elgin as a 7th grader. She is proud to be bilingual and a Latina. She will be attending Larkin High School as a junior this fall. Throughout high school, Yesenia has participated in many school activities and sports - volleyball, soccer, gymnastics, Black History Club, Sabor Latino and has also been on honor roll for 4 years straight. Yesenia has been the 2007 Class President at Larkin High School for the past 3 years. She is goal-driven and anticipates graduating from Larkin and attending Northern Illinois University. She has an interest in the medical field

Sponsors: Edgar Arriaga, Elia Benitez, Minerva Benitez, Michelle Sanchez & Raul Sanchez

Maria Guadalupe Perez (21) has been an employee of Old Second National Bank for 2 years and also a full time student at Waubonsee Community College. She has already received an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and Applied Science and plans to pursue a Bachelors Degree in Nursing at Aurora University in the Fall of 2006. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, traveling and spending time with her friends and family.

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Sponsors: Aguiniga Family, Jessica E. & Miguel Ceja, Jillian R. Clever, Diaz Family, Junior Diaz, Tammy Michael, Old Second National Bank, Alejandro Perez, Gabriel Perez, Maria G. Perez, Miguel & Maria Perez, & Kelly L. Robinson

Claudia Bravo (17) is a senior at Streamwood High School. She is the daughter of Maria E. and Robert Bravo. She enjoys being a page at Streamwood H.S. and on weekends enjoys her time with her friends and watching movies. Her favorite sport is soccer which she enjoy playing. Her most fond memories were of middle school where she truly enjoyed her time and friends. She considers herself friend, fun, honest, generous, and kind.

Cassandra Vale (17) is best described by four adjectives: loving, loyal, responsible, and open-minded. She was born August 7, 1988 in Dekalb, Illinois to Margaret Vale (Puerto Rican) and Juan Carlos Lopez (Colombian). Dancing, mathematics and children have always been her passion. She would like to fulfill these dreams by attending DePaul University and receiving a Master's in either Business or Social Sciences. She is currently involved in a dance group called Boogie Down Salsa Steppers and will be a Senior this up coming Fall at Larkin High School. During her high school career she has participated in Upward Bound, Y-Me Walkathon for Breast Cancer, Waco (Helping less fortunate children shop for Christmas gifts), Cross Cultural Committee, Peer Tutoring, Pop Warner Poms, Powder Puff, Sabor Latino (Treasurer), and Spanish club. She loves to help others and make people smile. Always doing her best, Cassandra does not let obstacles lower her motivation. She believes kindness with faith is the essence to life's everlasting meaning.

Sponsors: KBK Trim Installations, Eric R. Kusiolek, Ashley & Elizabeth Vazquez, & Elizabeth Vazquez

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JUDGES The committee would like to thank the following judges for their interest, commitment, and willingness to do a job, that for most of us, is simply impossible: Mirilia Gutierrez/Reflejos Kim Hopkins/The Learning Tree Ignacio Pena/Dundee Police Todd Ramljak/Elgin Police Ruth Munson/State of Illinois Patricia McNamara/Kane County Health Dept.

Carlos Acosta/McHenry County Latino Coalition

VOLUNTEERS The Committee would also like to thank all the wonderful volunteers who selflessly gave of their time, and most importantly, from their heart without the undying commitment you demonstrated (with a lot of patience from your family!), none of this would be possible. . .

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Hispanic Heritage Coalition Board of Directors: Gilbert Feliciano, President Juan Figueroa, Vice-President Maria Alvarez, Treasurer Rosey Valencia, Secretary Tom Armstrong Anna Culver John Hurlbut

P.O. Box 1432 Elgin, IL. 60121

Maria Alvarez Regina Coeto Gil Feliciano Jennifer Gudino (Dance) Denise Momodu (Choreography) Susana Munoz (Treasurer) Gail Parygnat (Research) Zoraida Rodriguez (Marketing) Rosey Valencia Yesenia Valencia (Car Wash)

SPONSORS The 2005 Miss Hispanidad Scholarship Program Committee would like to thank the following sponsors for their generosity and kindness in giving this year’s candidates an opportunity to make a positive difference in their lives and in the lives of those they love:

EFS Foundation American Family Insurance Brenda’s Floral, Bridal & Tux Chinta’s Grand Victoria Casino Bethesda Community Developtment Center Talk of the Town Beauty Salon George Irizarry, Esq. Michael Johnson

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S E I R O M E M

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S E I R O M E M

ss ad i M id n a p 5 s i H 200 ! u o Y k n a h T xv

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