Dear readers,

Most entrepreneurs have contemplated, at some point, the option of starting a franchise business. The options are endless; over 2800 different ones ensure that at least a few choices will be a good match for personal skills and interests. They have been the road to success for many Hispanics and a growing number of franchises are starting to focus on recruiting diversity franchisees.

Rob Bond and C. Everett Wallace, book authors, experts in the industry and frequent contributors to Hispanic Trends have made this year's selection of the Top 25 franchises that actively seek diversity franchisees.

There are endless things to learn about McDonalds, the poster child of the franchise industry that has its own university. Ralph Alvarez, who heads their North American unit of the company, was thorough in his responses to our questions.

This issue is not all franchises. You will enjoy reading this month’s sections, which include unusual corporate retreats, the latest blogs in the community as well as the first commentary piece by Ruben Navarrette. Ruben is a brilliant, award-winning columnist, widely syndicated throughout the world. It is a pleasure to welcome him as a regular contributor on upcoming issues. We hope you enjoy this month's selections.

Carlos A. Alfaro
Editor
calfaro@hisp.com