A warm congrats to Jane Garcia who recently won 2007 Michiganian of the Year from the Detroit News. If you see Jane please congratulate her! From the Detroit News:

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Her personality is a mix of toughness, charm and integrity, says Monica Martinez, vice president of Hispanic business affairs for Comerica Inc., who’s known Garcia since childhood.

“She’s a true visionary,” Martinez says. “She understands how decisions are made and that you have to be heard at the table where decisions are made.”

Besides the Catholic Church, Garcia also challenged perhaps the other most iconic institution among Latinos: the Democratic Party. Decades ago, she left the party that most Latinos affiliate themselves with to join Republicans — a move she admits bristled many activists. In 1982, she became the first Latina elected vice-chair of the Michigan Republican Party.

“I just think there is a better chance to have your say among Republicans,” Garcia says. “We need to have our voices heard at every table.”

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Jane- you are a great American, an inspirational role model, strong Latina, and a great Republican! Thanks for paving the way for so many. Adelante!

The best as we improve this great state we live in!

The MRNHA Board–