From Soccer to Politics: Israel's American Dream Journey
From Soccer to Politics: Israel's American Dream Journey
Pedro Bazil
Team Cobb
Story Summary
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Israel Baeza, a 31-year-old soccer enthusiast, once had a promising career as a goalkeeper before venturing into politics. He became the youngest ever Commissioner of the Eastern District for Pettis County, Missouri, and the first Hispanic-American commissioner in Missouri’s history, when he was elected at the age of 26. His father, Efrain Baeza, served as the pastor of the First Hispanic Baptist Church in Sedalia, and Israel was motivated to run for office by his Baptist faith and a desire to engage in public affairs, which was ignited during the U.S. elections in 2016.
Israel’s wife, 29-year-old Perla Llamas, is a certified teacher in Mexico. She and Israel got married in their home country just a month before the elections in 2020. For their honeymoon, she supported him during the final preparations of the campaign. Through his unlikely journey. Israel demonstrates determination, shows the importance of family support, and exemplifies life in the pursuit of the American Dream.
Israel, 31, leaves his home for work in late September. Israel, who is a Republican, was elected as the Commissioner of the Eastern District for Pettis County, Mo., in 2020. Israel is the first ever Hispanic-American commissioner in the state of Missouri and the youngest person to hold this position.
Israel, 31, speaks with Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s office secretary about his appointment with Kyle Aubuchon, the Director of Boards and Commissions in Jefferson City, Mo. Israel first entered politics in 2018 before being elected to his current office as he Commissioner of the Eastern District for Pettis County, Mo.
Boards and Commissions Director Kyle Aubuchon, left, shows Israel Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s office and boardroom. He occasionally makes trips to Jefferson City to meet with Aubuchon and other politicians who can help his constituents.
Israel takes his daughter, Natalia Baeza, and his wife, Perla Llamas, 29, outside the Capitol building after his meeting with the Director of Boards and Commissions, Kyle Aubuchon. Perla and Natalia played outside while Baez met with his political contacts.
Israel smiles as hair blankets his face while getting a trim. Israel visits this barbershop on special occasions, such as for his campaign ballot photo and before crucial visits. He is meticulous about the care of his hair down to the smallest detail, and that's how he likes it.
Israel's face is illuminated in the rearview mirror while driving his car after his morning workout. Israel is the Commissioner of the Eastern District for Pettis County, Mo.
Israel converses with 81-year-old Charlie Bahner after the street in front of his property, Rattlesnake Hill Road, was repaired in the Lake Creek Township. A few years ago, Charlie told Israel that he hoped they would fix the street in front of his house "before he dies." Israel promised him that in 2023, it would happen.
Israel slides down a slide on Centennial Park.
Israel responds to work emails in the hallway of his house. In the background to the right, his wife Perla Llamas, who is 8 months pregnant, combs their daughter Natalia Baeza’s hair.
Israel kneels in prayer alongside his wife, Perla Llamas, who is 8 months pregnant, at the First Hispanic Baptist Church. Israel’s father, Efrain Baeza, has been the pastor at this church for the past 25 years.
Israel,his daughter Natalia Baeza, and his 8-month pregnant wife, Perla Llamas, pray in bed while Natalia strokes her mother's face. As part of the bedtime routine, Israel, Natalia and Perla relax under a blue light that Natalia likes because it reminds lightning in an airplane cabin at night.
Brian Kratzer, Co-Director
Alyssa Schukar, Co-Director
Hany Hawasly, Technical Director
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