McDonald’s Owner/Operator, Jack Lubeznik announced the Lubeznik Family Restaurants (LFR) Community Education Initiative and Phase One of art classes designed to help and encourage youngsters to develop their artistic skills and excel in their academic pursuits. The initiative came from topics discussed during a town-hall-style meeting LFR held with local community leaders early this year. In attendance at that meeting and integral part of its formation was, East Chicago Council Member, Debra Bolaños.

Lubeznik introduced the LFR’s artist partners who are all local and will be instrumental in building the curriculum. Also during the event, East Chicago Central High School graduates Mayleen Guerrero and Grecia Alcántara were recognized for their outstanding achievements that made it possible for them to be attending college this fall. “Our Organization considers supporting young people that could become role models for their peers, one of our main pillars. Through them we will be making our communities stronger and more successful,” said Lubeznik.

Mayleen will be attending John Hopkins University, a need-based school, from which she received a scholarship. “It is my dream to become a trauma surgeon and John Hopkins gives me access to the best education in medicine and research.” She plans to have a double major in biology and neuroscience and a minor in biology. For recreation she has turned to soccer for the past six years and finds it very rewarding.

Grecia has chosen Notre Dame, also a need-based school and one of the top 20 schools in the United States with a high graduation rate. She plans to become a lawyer and to prepare she plans to major in Sociology and Global Affairs with a minor in America Studies. She enjoys soccer also and is very pleased that she can jump rope backwards. “My main concern is leaving my family. Growing up first generation Mexican American you never see women leave their family until they get married, but my parents want to see me succeed and so they support me. Besides, I will only be one hour and a half away.”