Happy Birthday LCDA!

We were privileged today to attend a celebration of 15 years of service for the Latino Community Development Agency (LCDA) in Oklahoma City. The agency 's mission is "working to enhance the quality of life in the Latino Community through education, leadership, services and advocacy."

Dr. David Hunter, Democratic nominee for the 5th District Congressional seat, and his wife sat with us and appeared to be a big hit with the attendees following the event. He was accompanied by his wife Diane and one of his employees, Gabriella, who serves as a Spanish language translator for his patients. Hunter said nearly 25% of his patients are Hispanic. He also provides a Vietnamese translator in his medical office.

We were bewildered with Mayor Mick Cornett's 20 minute speech that outlined the history of OKCand his accomplishments while neglecting to highlight the many, many achievements of the Latino community in the economic and cultural development of the city. (I believe he did make one very small mention of the LCDA.) However, the other speeches and video presentations clearly reflected the strong contributions of Latino businesses and citizens.

Democratic sponsors included Attorney General Drew Edmondson, Wallace Collins - HD 45 Democratic nominee, and Dana Orwig - HD 87 Democratic nominee. We visited with these Democrats at the event: Rep. Al Lindley, Rep. Richard Morrissette, Rep. elect Al McAffrey, Rep. Mike Shelton, Oklahoma County Commissioner Jim Roth, Andrew Rice SD 46 nominee, and Pat Potts SD 40 nominee. Also attending was Rep. Jari Askins, our next Lt. Governor!

ODP volunteers Wilfredo and Otilia Rivero were there as were Carl and Debbie Hogue-Downing.