You say you're a storyteller. Why is storytelling essential to building community?
When stories are well told, they help us understand complicated issues. They also help us learn about changes coming to our schools, neighborhoods and cities. Stories can be impactful and help keep us safe. I love to look at stats and turn those numbers into a story that helps people grasp what a bunch of data means.
How has your background shaped the person you've become?
I grew up in the South Texas heat in a home that had no air conditioning. My father did not graduate from high school. My grandfather walked from Mexico to Texas. My uncle, who helped raise me, drove a trash truck on which I spent countless hours. My dad and uncles all served in the military. One of my uncles was involved in D Day. They all taught me how important it is to work hard and study. They always told me I could have ANYTHING I wanted, as long as I worked for it. I was raised in a community of people of German, Czech and Polish backgrounds. Many of them still spoke their native languages. They taught me so much about other cultures. It was like my own little United Nations in a town of 2,000 people.
Hispanic journalists have faced some challenges in Denver. How has being Hispanic helped or hurt your career in news?
I consider my Brown skin and my ability to speak two languages my super powers. What makes me different has helped me tremendously. I look at my ethnicity as a huge asset as a story teller where more and more of our communities are increasingly diversified. Growing up in a challenged neighborhood, next to public housing, I saw a man killed when I was about 13 years old. I saw so many things happening around me. It's those experiences that help me go into all kinds of neighborhoods. I feel a special connection to people who are going through the worst of times. Growing up Hispanic continues to help me become a better story teller everyday.
You live in the Athmar Park neighborhood. What are your favorite places to go near there and around town?
One of my favorite restaurants is Saigon Bowl at Federal and Alameda. I love going to Lake Huston in my neighborhood. Going to the movies is a big part of my life. I LOVE the IMAX screen at the Regal at I 25 and Colorado. The Molly Brown House is a favorite. I always recommend that to guests. I also love Mexican food. Torres Restaurant on South Federal. Patzcuaro's in the Highlands.
What do you enjoy most about spending a holiday weekend in Denver?
Denver ALWAYS has so much to do during the holidays. This is such a diverse city, there is always tons going on. And the fireworks on July 4 are UNBELIEVABLE. I always tell people there are so many things to do here, no matter what time of year. I"ll probably ride my bike this July 4th and maybe take in a hike. The weather here is fantastic (most of the time)!
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