New appointee aims to empower Tulsa's Hispanic community

In a recent government meeting, Jose Balmote was appointed to the Greater Tulsa Area Hispanic Latins Affairs Commission, succeeding Hugo Salcedo. His term will run until December 31, 2026.

Balmote, a 40-year-old entrepreneur who has lived in Tulsa since 2003, shared his journey as an immigrant and his commitment to community service. He emphasized his passion for cooking, which led him to establish two restaurants and a food shop under his brand, Maple Scary, since launching his entrepreneurial career in 2018.

During his introduction, Balmote highlighted his involvement with the East Tulsa Chamber of Commerce, where he supports new entrepreneurs by sharing insights from his own experiences. He expressed a strong desire to help others navigate the challenges of starting a business, reflecting on the struggles he faced when he began.

Balmote's dedication to continuous learning was evident as he mentioned taking classes at Tulsa Community College to enhance his skills and volunteer efforts. He aims to be a voice for the Hispanic community, advocating for growth and representation.

His appointment to the commission is seen as a significant step towards fostering community engagement and support for local entrepreneurs, particularly within the Hispanic population in the Greater Tulsa area.