Washington County Oral Histories

Isabelle and Raphael Mendoza oral history recording Part 2

Part 2 of an audio recording of an oral history of Isabelle and Raphael Mendoza. Interview takes place at their business warehouse in NE Portland (Su Casa Super Mercado). Isabel describes early problems with obtaining a liquor license with OLCC (Oregon Liquor Control Commission). At minute 10:13, they talk about their three children and their involvement in the family business. Isabel mentions her community involvement, which includes being in the various planning committees and sitting in the board of directors. At minute 19:00 Isabel shares the limits in opportunities she saw living a primarily Latino community in New Mexico and how moving to Oregon changed that. Rafael then proceeds to share his original plans to eventually move back to Mexico until he saw that staying in Oregon was yelding better opportunities. Rafael shares his vision of further expansion. They recently opened a store in Yakima, Washington; which was made possible due to deliveries they do to restaurants and businesses in that area. They are currently located in Salem, Woodburn, Hillsboro, Yakima, and Portland. She reflects on the hardwork and teamwork it has taken to get to this point in their business. At minute 28:25 the interview transitions to the interviewer receiving a tour by Isabel of their business. The rest of the interview has Isabel describing the various unique items that are sold in their stores accompanied by the sounds of music in the background.

Mendoza, Isabelle

Mendoza, Raphael

Latino Oral History collection

Washington County (Or.) -- History

Hispanic Americans -- History

Washington County (Or.)

1 sound file (43 min.)

English

WCM_OH_407b

In Copyright

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Five Oaks Museum

O'Rourke, Michael

MP3

Sound