Margarita Rocha is executive director of Clinica la Familia, a Fresno nonprofit that serves low-income families. Before participating in a panel on the Affordable Care Act in Fresno, she shared a hilarious YouTube video and explained why spring remains her favorite season despite battling allergies in the Zócalo green room.
How do you like your coffee?
Black. Hot.
What keeps you up at night?
Unread e-mails. [Laughs.]
What’s your favorite plant or flower?
Maybe calla lilies.
What was the last thing that inspired you?
Just yesterday I watched a video of this very young toddler who was pleading his case with his mother. He got into the cupcakes, and his mother was scolding him for having done that, but he was so cute. And the mom’s name is Linda, and he’s going, “But Linda, but Linda, please listen to me, listen to me,” and he’s very animated. It made me laugh—kind of took me away from other things that I deal with. And if you see it you’re going to love it.
Who was your childhood hero?
My dad.
What profession would you like to practice in your next life?
Artist.
What’s your hidden talent?
Cooking.
What’s your best dish?
Cocido—I like soups.
What music have you listened to today?
I was listening to Radio Bilingue. Pedro Infante was on today. I grew up listening to him. He passed away a long time ago.
What’s your favorite season?
Spring. Because it’s not cold and it’s not hot—although I have allergies, and I suffer with them.