An interview with Tommy Baca

Local Man Named To Missouri Governors Commision On Hispanic Affairs

     Tommy Baca has been appointed to the new Governors Commission on Hispanic Affairs. He was one of the first 15 appointments made on the panel of 22, and was selected from a pool of over 150 Missouri leaders who represent a cross-section of Missouri with a broad representation of national and ethnic backgrounds and persons who are fluent in the Spanish language.
    The purpose of the commission is to serve as a statewide advisory body to the governor and the general assembly on issues of importance to the Hispanic citizens of Missouri. This commission will gather and promote information about the economic, social and cultural needs of Hispanic Missourians, monitor legislative issues that relate to the Hispanic community, make recommendations on Hispanic issues to state agencies and private sector organizations, and recommend legislative initiatives to the governor's office when it is deemed appropriate.
     Aside from a great ambassador for Sullivan County, his appointment will give rural Missouri a voice. It is important for small communities to have a voice with most of the commission members being from Kansas City and St. Louis.
     Mr. Baca will be serving on the Economic Development sub-committee as a goto point for questions and issues related to Hispanics in all areas of concern. When asked how the community could help him, Mr. baca invited the community to bring forward concerns and issues that can be improved. Issues that will help with the transition of a large segment of the population that is spanish speaking.
     Mr. Baca, who graduated from new Mexico State University in 1998 with a BS in Agriculture, lives here with his wife of 6 years, Fleurette and daughter Amelia. He is currently employed at PSF as their Communications and Public Affairs Manager.