Casimiro Reggi en Quienes Fuimos y Quienes Somos en La Sucursal del Cielo

Who We Are and Our History in Curuzú Cuatiá

Introduction to the Interview

• The discussion begins with a reflection on the shared history and experiences of families in Curuzú Cuatiá, emphasizing the importance of remembering those who contributed to the city's development.

• Casimiro Roberto Rey, known as "Barón," is introduced as a prominent figure from a well-known family in the city, expressing gratitude for being part of this interview series.

Family History and Contributions

• Barón emphasizes the need to remember past contributions to Curuzú Cuatiá, highlighting that progress comes through hard work and dedication.

• He recounts his family's origins, noting that his grandparents immigrated from Uruguay during difficult times in the 1920s and 1930s.

Early Business Ventures

• The Rey family initially struggled in Concordia before deciding to move to Curuzú Cuatiá where they began their business journey.

• They specialized in meat processing (fiambres), producing sausages and other products due to a lack of available options at that time.

Growth and Challenges

• The family expanded their business by capitalizing on local agricultural resources such as sheep and cattle, leading to significant growth.

• Barón shares anecdotes about how meat was sold without refrigeration, illustrating the challenges faced by businesses during that era.

Land Expropriation Issues

• In 1952, many local families faced land expropriations which caused significant hardship; Barón mentions various affected families.

• Legal battles ensued over land rights, with some families eventually recovering their properties after years of struggle.

Community Life and Business Practices

• Families lived on farms rather than commuting daily into town; community interactions were common among neighbors.

• Business transactions relied heavily on trust; payments were expected promptly without formal contracts or disputes.

Notable Historical Events

History and Growth of a Business

Early Beginnings

• The business began in 1963 through discussions between Antonio Rolando González and a partner, leading to the involvement of the speaker's brother who had retired from aviation due to health issues.

• The speaker's brother became the manager of the firm, which operated until 1969 before transitioning into other ventures like a hardware store and veterinary services.

Development and Challenges

• After 1969, the partnership evolved with Galdames joining; they faced various challenges but continued to work together.

• The team was characterized by youthfulness, eagerness, and strong customer relations, often starting their day early to serve clients effectively.

Strategic Advantages

• They capitalized on unique opportunities in livestock purchasing during the 1960s when few others were buying calves, giving them a competitive edge.

• Financial struggles arose in 1970; however, after securing financial support from wealthy acquaintances, they managed to stabilize their operations.

Community Support and Growth

• The speaker expresses gratitude for ongoing friendships that provided crucial financial backing during tough times. This network played an essential role in their growth.

• Acknowledgment is given to many individuals who contributed to their success over time; this reflects a strong community-oriented approach.

Modernization and Future Outlook

• The firm has expanded significantly with advancements such as television technology aiding marketing efforts for livestock sales.

• Despite facing new challenges in an evolving market landscape, there is optimism about overcoming difficulties based on past resilience.

Personal Reflections

• The speaker shares personal educational experiences at a military school that shaped his values and perspectives on discipline and hard work.

Community Building and Cultural Heritage in Curuzú Cuatiá

Historical Context of Community Events

• The speaker reflects on the community's efforts leading up to 2020, emphasizing their passion for local sports and cultural events.

• A significant fundraising event is recounted where a football match was organized to support the Paraguayan Red Cross during the Bolivia War, highlighting the importance of community engagement in historical contexts.

• The narrative includes a memorable game where Arsenio Erico scored a goal, showcasing local talent and its impact on regional pride and identity.

Legacy of Local Sports Figures

• Discussion about Arsenio Erico’s achievements, including his record-breaking performances in Argentina, underlines the significance of local athletes in shaping cultural narratives.

• The speaker expresses nostalgia for Curuzú Cuatiá's vibrant past, particularly its cultural venues like theaters that once thrived with community participation.

Cultural Centers and Social Dynamics

• The role of Italian society in Curuzú Cuatiá is highlighted as a pivotal part of social life, serving as a hub for culture and interaction among residents.