On Saturday, September 14, at 2:30pm, at the Gonzales Community Center, the Colton Area Museum’s (CAM) guest speaker program will feature Dr. Refugio I. Rochin-Rodriguez, UC Davis Professor Emeritus, who will share memories of his grandparents, Victor and Manuela Rodriguez, and highlight the contributions of selected Colton pioneers and military veterans.
Well-known for his connection to the history of South Colton, Dr. Rochin has established himself as a long-time leader in promoting an increased awareness of the role and contributions of Latinos not only in Colton but throughout the United States. He is a published author and internationally recognized expert in his fields of Chicano Studies, Agricultural Economics and international development.
Refugio I. Rochin was born in Colton, California, 1941, in a house behind his grandparents’ La Esperanza Market on West “O” Street. From his humble beginnings to the present, Dr. Rochin’s life has been characterized by service to the Latino community, including prestigious positions held at the Smithsonian Center for Latino Initiatives, National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts, and the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science.
Dr. Rochin also co-authored “U.S. Patriots from the American Revolution to Iraq (2003).
Community residents and visitors alike are invited to attend this exciting event on Saturday, September 14, at 2:30pm, at the Gonzales Community Center. The Colton Area Museum offers an interesting slate of guest speakers throughout the year. They represent a wide variety of perspectives and experiences that are not only informative, but inspirational for those who want to know more about Colton’s History – past, present, and future.
For more information about the museum and it programs, contact the museum at 824-8814, or Dr. G at 213-3730