Latino Heritage Month At MCC

McHenry County College will celebrate Latino Heritage Month from Sept. 17 through Oct. 11 with special events that recognize the contributions made by Latinos and to celebrate culture and traditions.

The month begins with a Kick-off Fiesta at MCC on Sept. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Commons, Building B. Featured will be Latin American food from multiple countries, a food demo by Chef Maddox of LaPetit de Paris, a showcase of artifacts of Latin America, flamenco dancers, a hands-on craft activity, giveaways, plus traditional Mexican desserts provided by the MCC Hospitality Club.

In addition, area high school students will attend MCC’s 2nd annual Latino Empowerment Conference on Sept. 21 where students will learn about the wide array of resources available to all college students, including scholarships and financial aid options, degrees and certificates available and career exploration strategies. Students will also hear MCC Latino alumni share their success stories and listen to a lively presentation about goal setting by motivational speaker Ernesto Mejia.

Other Latino Heritage Month events are listed below. All events are free and open to the public unless noted.

Wednesday, Sept. 19  and repeated on Oct. 9

1:30-2:30 p.m.

Study Abroad Seminar

10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Learn about the various destinations to study abroad while attending MCC and the benefits of the MCC Study Abroad Program in Room B166-167.

Friday, Sept. 21

8 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.

Second-Annual Latino Empowerment Conference for high school students.

Tuesday, Sept. 25

Spanish Loteria (Bingo)

11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

This student-only bingo event will be held in the cafeteria.

Thursday, Sept. 27

Latin American Coffee Tasting

Students and staff can enjoy Latin American coffees and pastries and stop by to speak with Ted Erski, MCC geography instructor, who will be available to answer questions and explain the coffees represented.

Saturday, Sept. 29

Bandoleros Performance

8 to 10 p.m.

The Raue Center welcomes the Bandoleros, a Chicago-based musical force of nature that has mesmerized audiences around the world with its spicy blend of Middle Eastern, Spanish flamenco and Latin flavors. MCC students only may

purchase tickets for $10 in the Student Life Office, Room A252. Sponsored by Northwest Herald and Sage Products, Inc.

Wednesday, Oct. 3

12 to 1 p.m.

Lunch & Learn

Born to Solo & Inspire

Rafael Mèndez, trumpeter and teacher (1906-1981)

MCC Speech instructor Ron Compton will feature the life and work of famous Latino musician Rafael Mèndez in Room A211.

Saturday, Oct. 6

Field Trip to the National Museum of Mexican Art

9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Join us for a field trip to the National Museum of Mexican Art, featuring a tour of the current exhibits in English or Spanish, view of the Pilsen Murals and a visit to a Mexican bakery and an authentic Mexican lunch. Student trip fee is $20. Sign up in the Student Life Office, Room A252.

Tuesday, Oct. 9

Study Abroad Seminar

1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Learn about the various destinations to study abroad while attending MCC and the benefits of the MCC Study Abroad Program. Snacks will be served.

Thursday, Oct. 11

Aztec Stories

10 to 11:30 a.m. Luecht Conference Center, Building B

2:30 to 3:50 p.m. Room A112

6-7:30 p.m. Room B166-167

A cultural/educational/musical workshop that will enlighten you to the wondrous world of the ancient Mexica/Aztecs. Participants will learn about many ancient, native indigenous instruments and listen to oral tradition stories that will reintroduce the symbolism and meaning behind some of the instruments. Free of charge.

For more information about Latino Heritage Month activities, contact Sonia Reising, coordinator of Multicultural Programs at (815) 455-8550.