Hispanic Center official speaks to East Side group

Carlos Cisneros, Hispanic Technology and Community Center (HTCC) executive board member, talked to the Eastside Business Association meeting Aug.10. He provided information about the Flint Fires Verbatim Theatre Project called Embers that tells the stories of the rash of arsons on Flint's East Side and information about the center's programs.

Embers creators, under the direction of Andrew Morton, talked with people at the HTCC who experienced the effects of these fires.

"Embers tells the stories hidden by the flames," Cisneros said.

Flint saw a dramatic increase in arson fires in 2010, which left behind piles of burnt bricks, empty lots and battered spirits. Embers documents these events. It will be performed in a variety of community spaces and each performance will be followed by a dialogue session.

Admission is free, but advanced notice of attendance is recommended. Call (810) 762-3230 or e-mail Andrew Morton at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.

Cisneros also talked about programs provided by the HTCC that include computer-based educational services, bilingual instructions in English as a second language and Spanish as a second language, Spanish translation services and tax preparation service.

"Our translators will accompany clients to their doctor's office or hospital as well as translate documents," Cisneros explained. "We work with the Hamilton Community Health Network and the Genesee County Free Clinic to provide translation services for patients who need them."

The center will hold its annual community fun day Aug. 20.

The HTCC also sponsored a community garden.

"We were part of the Edible Flint Garden Tour this year," Cisneros added. "All of our plants were donated by Walker Farms and we give the vegetables away to people who need them."

The HTCC is sponsored by the American GI Forum, the oldest Hispanic nonprofit organization in the country, and by Mott Community College. Its mission is to advance the education and training of Hispanics and other citizens of the metropolitan area of Flint so that the democratic ideals of equality and justice for all are ensured.

Flint Ombudsman Brenda Purfoy will be the speaker at the Aug. 17 meeting.