"Vision: That's very important."

Cynthia Gonzalez had a vision - a tasty vision that has become one of Arcola's most popular food destinations.

Vita's Taquerias began in 2017 as the first Mexican food truck in the area. Cynthia, who named her business after her mother, faced several challenges:
- Cynthia was still learning English.
- The legal documents and food safety test were all in English.
- Most Mexican restaurants in the area were serving a Tex-Mex style of Mexican food; Vita's was introducing traditional Mexican.
- In 2016, the political climate was challenging for Mexican-American culture.

And then there was a pandemic.

"Somedays I sold $50 the whole day," Cynthia says, "but I still had to pay everyone."

Despite the challenges, there were also several people ready and willing to help Cynthia's business succeed.

The City of Arcola granted a permit for the food truck to park on a lot that Cynthia purchased. But, neighbors complained about the status of the parking lot and a rundown mobile home that came with the lot. So, Cynthia's brother Eddie helped her tear down the mobile home and sell it. Then they built everything by hand, with help from family, to save money.

Arcola First Bank (now Peoples Bank & Trust) helped, not just financially, but also by connecting Cynthia with with other businesses and business owners in the area.

"Having a business is like your whole life," Cynthia says. Still, Cynthia says it's important to carve out at least 20-40 minutes each day for yourself.

Cynthia believes that her business is not just Mexican food, but also helping others.

"I feel successful because I've learned a lot. I'm available to help others." And she does. She is currently mentoring Gustavo Trevino, a young employee with dreams of owning his own food truck one day.

Gustavo also had advice for us. "Keep your dreams. We have big problems with family, with friends, inside of us. But, we have to keep dreaming. If you want to do something, keep dreaming. Do it."

Cynthia is also planning to set up a scholarship with Arcola High School as another way of helping others.

"If you can do small things, you can make a change in the life of someone. That's why I feel successful today."

Thank you, Cynthia and Gustavo, for coming in early and meeting with us! Your story is truly inspiring.

And so are your tacos.