Santa Maria Community Pride 2019

Community

PRIDE 2019

Nonprofits

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

A2 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

FSA’s Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center

Help at critical times CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Family Service Agency’s Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center (FSA-SMVYFC) provides over 7,000 people with vital mental health and family support services every year— often at their most critical times of need. The agency’s counselors and advocates empower families and individuals of all ages to take steps toward wellness and self-sufficiency.

Counseling Youth With one in three Santa Maria and Guadalupe 7th and 9th graders experiencing chronic sadness and 16% considering suicide in the last year (Healthy Kids Survey, 2018-19), it is critical that youth in crisis and their families have access to mental and behavioral health services.

Recently a father, who was frantic after finding his 16-year-old son with self-inflicted cuts on his arms and legs, received the therapy he needed for his son. When staff at FSASMVYFC met the son, he was on the verge of expulsion from school. At the end of his time in counseling, the teen was excelling academically and making plans for college.

“I can’t imagine what would have happened to me if I never got help,” said the teen.

“Disadvantaged children, teens, and young adults in the Santa Maria Valley have a clear need for support,” said Steven DeLira, FSA’s Deputy Executive Director. “Our services help youth to work through their challenges and become more comfortable and confident in their emerging identities.”

Building Stronger Families No one understands better than parents how a child’s difficult behavior can disrupt a household. When 10-year-old Tina’s behavior at home became challenging for her parents Connie and John, they sought help from SMVYFC’s parent education program.

In contrast to her model behavior at school, Tina was disrespectful, verbally aggressive at home. She did not follow household rules and had frequent out-of-control tantrums.

The parenting program helped Connie and John learn the importance establishing household rules, following through with consequences, and giving ample praise--skills that eventually helped transition Tina’s behavior.

Parent leaders, Maria Espinoza and Norma Rico (with certificates), pictured with FSA staff (left to right) Rosa Lazaro, Parent Educator; Ambar Moran, Family Support Services Family Advocate; and Alma Marquez, Family Support Services Program Manager at a Parent Recognition celebration on April 9 to recognize local parent leaders for the work they do with families and the community.

Tina learned how to express her needs in a positive way and to follow household rules. Now Tina and her parents have a stronger and happier relationship, and the Connie and John have skills they can apply to raising all their children.

Supporting Students in the School Students who are looking for a place of comfort and support can find it at their schools thanks to a collaborative effort between FSA and the Santa Maria Bonita School District. More than 30 Outreach Mentors provide outreach services to students at 16 elementary schools and 4 junior high schools. The program teaches youth to create lasting bonds, increase selfconfidence, and improve school attendance. More than 70% of students who participate in this supportive program show an improvement in behavior.

“We’ve been operating the program at the schools for over 30 years,” said Outreach Mentor Program Manager Gail Burgess.

“Parents who were previously served by the program are now asking for their own children to receive support.”

Carlos, who was born with physical and developmental health issues, benefitted from this partnership. Carlos was

Helping Seniors cope with change

SMVYFC staff (left to right) Nancy A. Johnson, Clinical Director; Rosa Lazaro, Parent Educator; Ambar Moran, Family Support Services Family Advocate, attend the Bridges to Resilience Conference which focuses on the impact of childhood adversity and the importance of working collaboratively to support the health and wellbeing of children and youth in our community. referred to the program because of his learning disabilities. With the support of his outreach mentor, Carlos improved his self-confidence. His mentor encouraged him to attend the Pyles Boys Camp, where he later took on the role of a leader at the camp. As Carlos matured,

the camp continued to call on him for assistance in the offseason.

Carlos joined the Army after his high-school graduation.

Now in his mid-30s, he is happily married with children of his own.

FSA-SMVYFC tackles some

of the most difficult issues facing families today—mental health concerns, behavioral issues, parenting challenges, and poverty. Its transformative programs help youth improve academically and socially and help families build stronger bonds.

Taking the right steps

Support groups and counseling have helped Daniel and Maria feel less isolated by their circumstances CONTRIBUTED REPORT

As adults age, they are often faced with new and unexpected life challenges. Many need help to cope.

Daniel and Maria, happily married for over 40 years, had always taken an active role in the community as volunteers and enjoyed getting together with friends.

Things changed last year, however, when Daniel noticed that Maria had stopped reading and cooking, both lifelong passions of hers. She began to lose interest in socializing and feared leaving the house. Daniel took Maria to the doctor who diagnosed her with dementia and depression.

Distraught by the diagnosis, Daniel felt helpless and overwhelmed with his new role as caregiver for the love of his life.

Fortunately, he was able to find help by joining one of FSA’s

Caregiver Support Groups. The clinician-facilitated sessions were instrumental in connecting Daniel with other local seniors and caregivers who provided valuable support and advice for navigating his new role.

Daniel also realized that he and Maria would benefit from mental health therapy, and the couple began meeting with one of FSA’s counselors. The therapist helped the pair process Maria’s diagnosis and discussed how to address Maria’s withdrawal. After several sessions and with Daniel’s support, Maria gradually began to see her old friends on a more regular basis.

The support group and counseling have helped both Daniel and Maria feel less isolated by their circumstances and more able to cope with Maria’s diagnosis.

Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center’s substance abuse treatment program offers individual and group counseling.

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

Since 2002, the Santa Maria Valley Youth & Family Center (SMVYFC) substance abuse treatment program has served youth ages 12 to 24 years old who are struggling with substance abuse. The program provides individual counseling, group therapy, testing, and case management. All services are free and offered in English and/or Spanish.

“We operate in close collaboration with schools, probation, and the Department of Behavioral Wellness.” said Program Manager, Chuck Madson. “Our substance abuse treatment program provides holistic treat-

ment that addresses both the social and emotional needs of the client.”

One client, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “The fact that I felt cared for but not judged helped my treatment. My counselor would tell me when I was doing well, when I was slipping, and where I could do better—and I knew they were saying it because they had my best interests at heart.”

The SMVYFC treatment team includes a clinical director, licensed doctor, licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and certified counselors. Treatment is modified to meet individual client needs.

“Clients involved in our program learn healthy coping skills to stop using alcohol and other drugs, and gain improved self-confidence,” said Madson.

“Our hope is provide options for the youth in our community, to empower them to make choices for a positive future.”

A graduate of SMVYFC’s treatment program who enrolled in the Grizzly Youth Academy, a highly-structured National Guard program that promotes leadership, recently wrote, “With your program and all of your support, I learned how to be in control and take the right step.”

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Our mission is to Our mission is strengthen and to strengthen advocate for families and advocate and individuals of all for families and ages and diversities. individuals of helping to create and all ages and preserve a healthy diversities, community.

helping to create and preserve a Since our 2017 healthy community. merger with the

Santa Maria In 2017-18 Family Valley Youth & Service Agency Family Center, we over serveserved over 23,000 23,000 children people countywide and adults. every year.

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | A3

ope, Stre H ng ng i t id

d Stability an h,

Pro v

Santa Maria Special Section1

Age

0 101 to

40% Male

82% 17% 1%

Hispanic/Latino Caucasian/White

African American/Black

75% 15% 100%

Very Low-Income

60%

Female

Low-Income

150 82% 82% paid staff (62% are bilingual)

367

volunteers

At-Risk

21,864

volunteer hours

Join us in Strengthening our Community.

Volunteer or Donate at FSAcares.org Offices located throughout the County Santa Barbara • Santa Maria • Lompoc • Carpinteria • Guadalupe

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

A4 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

OASIS welcomes you to come celebrate National Active Aging Week with us!

September 22 - 28, 2019 805.937.9750, 420 Soares Ave, Old Town Orcutt.

Where Health, Education & Community Meet…

OASIS advocates for our local seniors by helping them stay healthy, engage in meaningful activities, have fun, build new friendships and learn new things. We are an independent nonprofit that has been enriching lives and serving Northern Santa Barbara County since 1984.

Benefits of Membership An OASIS membership in the amount of $20 per-year, provides you with full access to our popular programs (some are fee based), a subscription to our monthly newsletter, fresh produce at our monthly farmer’s market (at no cost), discounts at several Orcutt businesses, and advertising opportunities in our newsletter, and much more.

Reasons to Join OASIS The reasons to become a member and supporter of OASIS are too numerous to list all of them here…but we want to highlight a few of them:

Fellowship. OASIS members are first and foremost a part of a local community of seniors serving and helping other seniors. So many of the programs we offer are designed to knit hearts together through service, and volunteerism.

Service. We all have a stake in each others well being. And OASIS is a place to serve and to be served. That is our legacy, and that is one of our highest priorities.

Volunteerism. One of the foundational principles and objectives of OASIS is to harness the kindness, generosity and goodwill that exists in abundance throughout our community. These bedrock values manifest first and foremost through a spirit of volunteerism. Seniors helping seniors is what OASIS is about.

Personal Growth & Development. OASIS is a hub of opportunities to develop, grow and thrive. Learning or improving

life skills, participating in productive activities, assisting others who are less fortunate…opportunities to travel with other OASIS members, this is what OASIS exists for. This is what our members understand to be our most valuable contribution to the quality of their lives.

Member Discounts. The OASIS discount program focuses on local merchants. It is important to

keep our dollars in our community and to take advantage of offered discounts. Go to the Discount Program page, you can access it by clicking on the Membership tab, and visit our list of local merchants who have agreed to extend OASIS members a discount on their products and services.

For more information on events or becoming a member please call 805.937.9750, visit www.oasisorcutt.org or stop by at 420 Soares Ave, Old Town Orcutt.

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Community

PRIDE 2019

Real Estate 00 1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

B2 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

ADVANTAGES of a Listing Agent

© ADOBE STOCK

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efore listing your home for sale, many home sellers are tasked with the decision to hire an agent or make the venture alone.

While the FSBO avenue might save you a little money by avoiding the commission cost of a listing agent, a real-estate transaction is best navigated with the guidance of an expert.

Recent data from the National Association of Realtors reveals that only 7% of FSBO attempts were actually successful in 2017. Typically, these sales were made when sellers already had a buyer in mind. Finding the right listing price is considered the most difficult task for this type of sale.

Before attempting to join this small percentage of those who sell their homes without expert help, consider the advantages of hiring a professional real estate agent.

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Setting the Price

Choosing a price point is more involved than having a home appraised and asking that amount. In fact, while an appraisal is a good starting point, an expert can access a CMA or comparative market analysis to analyze current trends in the area including what similar homes sell for, current market trends, interest of local buyers, and how long homes are listed.

With this important information, a real estate expert can price your home to ensure a profitable sale with a quick turnaround.

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A real estate agent is efficient in finding flaws in your property that may slow down a transaction or effect bids from buyers.

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Once you have accepted an offer from a home buyer, there is still one roadblock in

the way before you head to close. Most offers are contingent on a home inspection, meaning an independent professional will inspect the property for flaws or defects that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Keep in mind, some states require you to disclose information about known problems that may affect the value of your home. If you fail to inform them, you may be held legally responsible for fines and fees or the rescission of a sale.

Your real estate agent is an expert on the sometimes-complicated responsibilities that sellers face and can ensure your deal won’t fall through.

If unexpected problems are discovered, it’s common for a new offer to be written up. An agent will use his expertise to negotiate with the buyer’s agent to maintain fair terms.

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periences heavy rain fall, a new roof or airtight windows and doors may be necessary before listing. Homes for sale in regions with intense summers and brutal winters can benefit from an updated HVAC system. If you decide to purchase a new unit, make sure to keep warranty paperwork on hand to pass on to the next owner. Small incentives like this can make the difference between receiving unimpressive offers and making a sale.

Be sure to brag about recent upgrades in your listing. Buyers know what they’re looking for, and an agent understands how to advertise your property so they can find it.

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We want to give a huge Thank You to the Doctors and Staff at Mission Hope Cancer Center here in Santa Maria! It is so great that local cancer patients don’t have to travel out of the area for treatment and support.

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Santa Maria Special Section1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | B3

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

B4 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

For Your Security and Comfort ...

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Perform regular property inspections and provide condition reports to owners.

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Community

PRIDE 2019

BUSINESS 00 1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

C2 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

Benefits & Perks For Our Subscribers

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When you spend $100 at a locally owned business, $68 stays in the community, according to the Independent We Stand organization.

To understand the importance of shopping local, know where these dollars go.

Small and local businesses are different from national chains, as they rely on the community to stay afloat, both by selling and buying goods. Owners also are shown to donate to local causes at more than twice the rate of chains.

Learn more about the people and factors you support by shopping locally.

New Jobs

As businesses grow, the need for more local employees arises. The influx in workers also benefits the community by attracting more residents and garnering tax dollars for your area.

Emergency services such as ambulances, fire departments and police stations also will grow with the population. Ultimately, shopping local can actually cause your community to be a safer place to live.

Supporting Other Businesses

Owners of local grocers offer support to farmers in the area. By purchasing their produce and meat products lo-

cally, farmland will continue to thrive.

Construction companies and craftsmen can keep the money they earn local by redistributing it to small-business lumberyards. The expertise of an owner has a direct relationship with the quality of products they use to build.

More Businesses

Once a business owner sees their company thriving in the community, they are more apt to open a second shop. This will lead to more local jobs and give the town more diversity and uniqueness.

Tax Contributions

In addition to employees paying their share of income taxes to the local government, local businesses also contribute a higher tax responsibility.

Thriving companies that generate high values of revenue are placed in higher tax brackets and are held responsible for increasing property taxes.

These dollars are distributed to benefit local schools, emergency services and local government.

Their dollars may also be contributed to special taxation districts which focus on projects like community lighting and improving historic locations in town.

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

© ADOBE STOCK

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | C3

The Value of Renters Insurance One of the most neglected and rejected insurance policies is among the most valuable: renters insurance.

RISKS AT HOME Buying a home is likely the most expensive purchase you will make. It is a decision that comes with many benefits and potential pitfalls, depending on how well you protect yourself throughout the buying process. Likewise, renting a home or apartment can be the largest bill you pay each month.

It is crucial to protect not only the actual structure of your home or apartment, but also your personal items within it. Here are three factors to consider when buying or renting a home:

1. Location

In real estate, location is everything. Houses that are located near highly rated, permanently staffed fire departments usually cost less to insure, according to the Insurance Information Institute. This also holds true for homes that have a hydrant

nearby.

Living near an ocean? Consider your proximity to the coastline.

Houses located on or near the coast will generally cost more to insure than those further inland due to the risk of hurricanes or flooding. They may also require a separate hurricane or windstorm deductible. Work with your local insurance agent to see what types of coverage is available in your area.

2. Age of the home

Older, Victorian-style homes are all the rage. But owning and maintaining one can hurt your wallet. Features like plaster walls and traditional wooden floors can be costly to replace and can raise the cost of insurance. Before signing the dotted line to purchase a vintage home, work with your inspector to check out the condition of the plumbing and

electrical systems. Age can affect the safety and integrity of these systems, which is something that will also be assessed by your home insurance provider as it determines the cost of your policy.

3. Quality of Construction

The age of your home is also a big factor in determining its compliance with building codes.

Homes today are constructed to meet modern, engineering-based building codes. Consider how much renovation will set you back when deciding whether or not to purchase an older home.

Does the home have a new roof or will it have to be replaced relatively soon? Depending on the type of roof and whether or not it’s made with fire- or hail-resistant materials, you may even qualify for an discount, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

HOME

Jaime Flores

While many landlords and property management firms require it, some do not. If not, it’s still recommended. After all, you’re protecting your assets from theft or loss and liability for any damage done to your rental home.

Of course, insurance agencies are pro-renters insurance — but they’re correct to do so, say many insurance policy experts. Here’s why.

It’s affordable: Most policies offer comprehensive coverage for relatively inexpensive annual premiums, around $16 a month on average, according to the financial advisory website ValuePenguin. Most cover personal property damage, personal liability, additional living expenses and medical expenses, benefits that far outweighs the cost.

It cover unexpected expenses: Whether you have enough savings to cover virtually any imaginable loss or you’re on a tight budget, rental insurance

generally covers you far beyond the price of your premium when the unexpected occurs.

It goes beyond your personal belongings: While landlords maintain insurance policies that cover the dwellings they rent, they don’t generally cover the items included inside, such as appliances or furnishings. The liability coverage can also cover any medical or legal expenses.

It’s eligible for discounts: Most insurers will offer discounts for rental insurance if you bundle it with an existing package or policy, according to U.S. News & World Report. On average, policies can decrease by 5 to 10 percent.

If you live in an area of the country that’s prone to natural disasters — wildfires, hurricanes or tornadoes, for example — the coverage is worth the peace of mind alone.

There’s little reason not to get it, advises Consumer Reports.

For the price of a few lattes a month or just one delivery pizza, renters can comprehensively cover their belongings and themselves should disaster, theft or liability raise its ugly head.

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Flores Insurance Agency

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

C4 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

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Community

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

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PRIDE

is the word

Katelyn Perales, left, and Oscar Ramirez perform during the March 2019 Open Streets Santa Maria. They are members of Ballet Folklorico from Santa Maria Foursquare Church.

Community events, youth activities, development pushing Santa Maria to new heights

DAVID DUBRANSKY DUBRANSKY, CONTRIBUTOR

JENNIFER BEST

A

Contributing Writer

nyone keeping an eye on Santa Maria in recent years has seen the growth: new schools, new businesses, new homes. The city has moved squarely into the 21st Century with the support of its residents, the energy of incoming business opportunities, the strength of existing businesses and a strong agricultural tradition.

“We have a great city that’s getting better. I know in my heart that we’re doing some really positive things for our youth. Santa Maria is growing with more opportunities, more business investment, and offers a great quality of life,” said Mayor Alice Patino.

In November 2018, voters overwhelmingly voiced their support for their city in passing Measure U, an extension and increase of a sales tax rate first passed by voters in 2012. As the initial quarter-cent sales tax faced its sunset, voters agreed to increase the sales tax to a full cent with no sunset date.

“There’s robust community support for city services, and the city is going to make those happen,” said Santa Maria Public Information Manager Mark van de Kamp. “We were humbled to receive 74 percent voter approval for the enhancement and extension of Measure U sales tax to maintain and enhance city services.”

First up, filling 57 city positions which should help close the gap created during the past 11 years of budget shortfall. The city is currently in the search, hire and training process.

“The logistics of finding all those people who are qualified, on-boarding them, finding room to place and all that. It’s a super development for the community because public safety will get most of them, then recreation and parks, and we’re also very pleased that finally we get to include additional support staff, administration and finance, necessary to take care of a growing staff,” van de Kamp said.

The new positions, while welcome, don’t entirely fill the void created by years of budget shortfall, van de Kamp confirmed.

“Unfortunately, we will still need to keep some positions vacant. This doesn’t fix everything.

The city’s revenues are affected by the conditions of the economy, and when a downturn comes, cities have to revisit each position,” he said.

Meanwhile, riding that wave of community support, the city continues to maintain and grow a variety of opportunities, from recreation to community development.

“Santa Maria is in a really good place right now with the additional resources to maintain and enhance services for the community, the businesses that are coming here to compliment our community,” van de Kamp said.

In addition to long-time local favorite events like Elks Rodeo, Parade of Lights and the series of free summer concerts and movies, Santa Maria continues to introduce new public events. May brought the inaugural Santa Maria Open Streets which included some 150 vendor booths and free activities along a one-mile stretch of Main Street.

“The organizers were overjoyed by the turnout given it was the first-ever event of its kind in Santa Maria. There’s considerable interest in doing it again,” van de Kamp said.

DAVID DUBRANSKY, CONTRIBUTOR

Gaby Santos, a member of the Boys and Girls Club Keystone Club, races a giant trike during the March 2019 Open Streets Santa Maria. The event promotes physical fitness, public health, and Cesar Chavez Day.

LEN WOOD STAFF

The Laurus College entry performs on S. Broadway during the 2018 Santa Maria Parade of Lights.

LEN WOOD STAFF

The Ballet Juvenil Azteca de Rocio Santos entry performs on S. Broadway during the 2018 Santa Maria Parade of Lights.

PETER KLEIN, CONTRIBUTOR

Christopher Byrd takes a bull ride during 2019 Elks Rodeo action.

As Enos Ranch buttons up construction and opens doors, the city is calling for the community’s input on the promised park, funded by that development.

“We’re asking Santa Marians to help design a community park at the future Enos Ranch Park.

We’ll renovate the house, and we’re asking the community what they’d like the park to look like,” van de Kamp said.

Park development feedback is welcomed at dsmitherman@ cityofsantamaria.org.

In addition, the city is holding public workshops and otherwise reaching out to the community as it updates its Active Transportation Plan.

“We have a network of bike paths and recreational trails.

This is designed to update that and encourage options for getting out, encouraging physical activity every day, and providing safe, comfortable and convenient paths for everyday activity and a more sustainable community,” van de Kamp said.

For more information about upcoming workshops, to provide feedback, or to take part in the community survey, visit ActiveSantaMaria.com before Aug. 31.

While planning moves ahead, old planning efforts are coming to fruition.

Toyota Santa Maria has broken ground on its new location across the road from the new Costco store, and Honda is slated to move in next door. Kia will move into the present Toyota location.

Grading has begun for 318 apart-

ments there, and the steel superstructure of the new elementary school rounds out construction in that neighborhood.

Across town, construction is well under way on a new, fourstory Hampton Inn, and the Carpenter’s Union is building a new hall nearby.

And right in the middle of it all, Coast Hills Credit Union is moving its corporate offices from Lompoc to a new facility which will also house A.T. Still University.

“The Coast Hills move brings more executive and support team positions to Santa Maria,” van de Kamp said.

And the private, osteopathic medical school will bring jobs, provide more career opportunities, and enhance healthcare in Santa Maria, he said, while bringing more students, staff and faculty into the valley.

“This is something the City Council and (Santa Maria) Chamber of Commerce have worked really hard on, and it’s exciting to see it happening,” van de Kamp said.

“We have a great quality of life here, and there’s more opportunities. Santa Maria is a really great spot where we have opportunities for jobs and recreation. It’s diverse, there’s a lot of shopping opportunities, there are more educational options with Hancock (College) and the Hancock Promise and the pending arrival of A.T. Still, a lot of great parks, many of which we’ve recently renovated, free movies and concerts in the park. We have a lot to offer.”

FRANK COWAN, CONTRIBUTOR

Wearing their princess crowns, Madison Palmerton, left, of Avila Beach and Natalye Todd of Arroyo Grande listen to the 1980s music of The Molly Ringwald Project from Santa Ynez Valley during a free concert in 2015 in Santa Maria’s Rotary Centennial Park.

LEN WOOD, STAFF

Santa Maria firefighters drive Engine 1 from Station 4. The aging vehicle was targeted for replacement with Measure U funds covering part of the cost.

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Santa Maria Special Section1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | D3

club of saNta maria

The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria is a service organization comprised of caring men and women from all walks of life. Our objective is to bring aid to children in need. The majority of our efforts benefit children in the Santa Maria community. A portion of our funds we raise go to help meet Kiwanis International objectives which focus on the special needs of young children from prenatal development to age five.

We serve by sponsoring fundraising activities which provide monetary support for children's programs and through personal involvement in the giving of our time and skills. Anyone interested in serving others will feel welcome here.

For membership application go to: http://www.SantaMariaKiwanis.org/Page/29253 Kiwanians around the globe have one common goal:To serve the children of the world. Kiwanis advocates this vision every day by providing opportunities to serve for every member of a community through Service Leadership Programs. Through these opportunities, youth and young adults around the work to become competent, capable, and compassionate leaders.

Key Club

Builders Club

high school studeNts

245,000 high school leaders from 24 countries unite every day to provide service in their homes, schools, and communities, and complete more than 12 million hours of service. Key Clubbers work to help eliminate HIV/AIDS in Africa, stop premature birth, and battle for the rights of children in their communities. The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria sponsors and advises Key Clubs at Santa Maria High, Pioneer Valley High and the Abel Maldonado Youth Center.

KKids

elemeNtary studeNts

K-Kids is a student-led community service club for elementary students that teaches members the value of helping others through participation in community service projects and club activities.

The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria sponsors and advises KKids clubs at Bonita Elementary, Fairlawn Elementary and Jimenez Elementary.

middle school & juNior high studeNts

Nearly 40,000 middle and junior high students in 1,300 clubs in 18 nations contribute service to school and community while developing leadership and people skills. Builders Club members implement practical service-learning principles as they focus on supporting organizations that focus on the needs of children. The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria sponsors and advises the Builders Club at Arellanes Junior High.

Aktion Club adults with disabilities

Aktion

Club

members

in

more than 200 clubs in seven nations allow adults living with disabilities to develop initiative and leadership skills through hands-on service. These adults return to the community the benefits, help, and caring they have received. The Kiwanis Club of Santa Maria sponsors and advises the Santa Maria Aktion Club in association with VTC Enterprises and People for Leisure and Youth, Inc.

Thank you to the 2019 Elks Rodeo Queens.

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D4 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

© FOTOLIA

Learning Moments Made Fresh Daily at the Discovery Museum

THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Almost all communities have a chamber of commerce, so be sure to take advantage of this great resource.

The chamber of commerce is the heart of any thriving business community.

Chambers provide a directory of local businesses and often maintain a calendar of local events. Networking with your local chamber’s business members is a great way to become more invested in the downtown, family-owned companies in your community.

Business Directory

705 S. McClelland St., Santa Maria, CA 93454 805-928-8414 smvdiscoverymuseum.org Tues-Sat 10-5, Sun 12-4

The local chamber should have a business directory that includes member businesses. Most small businesses value the benefits and networking being associated with the chamber of commerce brings them, so there should be a fair amount of small businesses on this list.

Pick up a directory or peruse the list on your chamber’s website. There might be a few — or several — businesses you don’t recognize. This is a great way to expand your list of favorite restaurants or find your next new favorite shop.

Calendar Of Events

Your chamber of commerce also is likely to keep an updated calendar of local events. This calendar should not only have events such as new ribbon cuttings but celebrate businesses and spotlight a different company on a regular basis.

This is a great way to explore new parts of your town or areas you don’t get to often. By attending a new shop or restaurant’s ribbon cutting, or visiting a business that has been spotlighted, you might discover another shop that is right next door or across the street. Getting out into your community is invaluable in supporting local businesses.

Become A Member Run a business? Thinking about starting one up? Consider becoming a member of your local chamber.

Most chambers have several levels of membership, including business memberships and individual memberships.

This is a great way to hear first about new businesses that are thinking of starting up in the area and networking with current business leaders in the community.

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Community PRIDE 2019

Allan Hancock COLLEGE

“

These graduates represent the greatness of Allan Hancock College, the California Community College system and the State of California.

“

-Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President, Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. 00 1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

E2 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

Community Education Make your education a Pie-Ority

Community Education provides lifelong learning opportunities to support career preparation and personal enrichment.

COOKING

PAINTING

COMPUTERS AND YOU

CLOTHING ALTERATIONS/ CONSTRUCTION

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

FLORAL DESIGN

• Free and low-cost classes • Classes for adults and kids • Self-paced learning • Get your GED©

• Guidance through noncredit counseling • Upgrade job skills or learn skills for the job you want!

• Prepare to transfer to credit

• Connect with your community • Learn something new • Community Education is your gateway to better options

Community Education offers something for everyone!

Communit

CLASSES START AUG. 19 See the fall 2019 Spectrum schedule of community education classes for more details.

Follow us on Facebook

f

/HancockCommunityEducation

FA L L 2 0 1 9

ALLAN HANCOCK COLLEGE Community Education Schedule of Classes

SPECTRUM

Make your education

a Pie-ority

Hancock College Community Education (bldg. S) 800 S. College Drive, Santa Maria, CA 93454 | 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3209

www.hancockcollege.edu/communityeducation

CLASSES BEGIN AUGUST 19, 2019 Registration begins July 20, 2019

FA L L 2 0 1 9 | 1

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Santa Maria Special Section1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | E3

Hancock and the University of La Verne Prepare for Fall Cohort “This partnership gives our students access to affordable four-year degrees, something that’s been a big need in our community,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “With these three degree programs on campus, our students now have access to a high-quality university education that will prepare them for meaningful careers.”

Qualifying Hancock students and alumni have the opportunity to earn bachelor’s degrees in public administration, business administration or organizational management. Cohorts for Allan Hancock College and the University of La Verne continue to offer each program are required to three on-site bachelor’s degree programs as part of a historic partnerenroll at least 20 students. ship.

The on-site bachelor’s proEarning a bachelor’s degree in northern Santa Barbara County is more accessible than ever before. Three on-site bachelor’s degree

programs are currently being offered via a partnership between Allan Hancock College and the University of La Verne.

Hancock Career Counselor David Hernandez, ED.D. Receives Latino Legacy Award Allan Hancock College’s staff and faculty are dedicated to making sure students succeed, and Career Counselor and Instructor David Hernandez, Ed.D. is no exception.

Hernandez was recognized for his efforts to help students achieve their dreams when he received the prestigious 2019 Latino Legacy Award for making a difference in education in the Santa Maria community on March 24.

“I am so honored and humbled to receive the Latino Legacy Award in Education,” said Dr. Hernandez. “Every day I have the privilege to guide and motivate students to reach their full potential. As an educator and counselor, I assist students with unlocking their strengths, and helping them find their true passion based on their personalities, values, interests, aptitudes, and abilities.”

In 2016, a group of community members created the Latino Legacy Awards to celebrate and promote the hard work and dedication occurring in the Santa Maria Valley. Each year, a committee selects 10 honorees who cover a wide spectrum of service sectors including public safety, education, business and more.

“We believe it is pivotal to honor and recognize leaders in our community,” said Glo-

ria Soto, 2019 Latino Leadership Awards steering committee chair. “Leaders who every day take the initiative to go above and beyond by coaching a sports team, speaking up for those who feel they don’t have a voice, or helping others develop their leadership skills.”

Dr. Hernandez assists students who are undecided on their major or career, and facilitates workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills, employment searching, and dressing for interviews.

In addition, he is the founder of the Hancock Men’s Support Group, which assists males from disproportionately impacted backgrounds in achieving their academic goals.

“David works tirelessly to create opportunities for our community,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Whether in his role as an academic counselor, career advisor or leader of the college’s Men’s Support Group, David is central to Hancock’s commitment to changing the odds for northern Santa Barbara County.”

Dr. Hernandez has been employed at Hancock since 2009 and is a Central Coast native.

“Growing up on the Central Coast and facing barriers to success has allowed me to help our students in need

grams are aimed at current students who are enrolled in similar programs at Hancock, as well as alumni who want to return to the college to complete a bachelor’s degree. Hancock and La Verne officially announced the partnership in October 2018.

As part of the agreement with La Verne, students who complete at least two semesters at Hancock will also be eligible for a 50 percent discount on tuition. Students may enroll at both schools concurrently, allowing them to take lower-division courses from Hancock at the same time they take upperdivision courses from the University of La Verne. Most students will need to take

an additional 44 units from the University of La Verne to earn their bachelor’s degree.

Flexible class schedules will accommodate working students.

Founded in 1891 and located 35 miles east of Los Angeles, University of La Verne is a private, nonprofit, comprehensive institution founded on four core values: lifelong learning, ethical reasoning, civic and community engagement, and diversity and inclusivity.

Hancock students and alumni can apply to the onsite programs or any other University of La Verne academic programs at laverne. edu/apply [laverne.edu].

Hancock Again has Highest Transfer Rate to Cal Poly

Allan Hancock College Career Counselor and Instructor David Hernandez, Ed.D.

Hancock students celebrate transferring to Cal Ploy.

through a caring and empathetic approach,” said Dr. Hernandez. “Understanding how our students’ livelihoods are dependent on their success at Allan Hancock College is a driving force that pushes me daily. A phrase that speaks to me is ‘In Lak’ech’ which means, ‘You are my other me.’ How different are we from the students we serve? I am so thankful for the recognition and my mentors who continuously inspire me. I will continue to serve students to the best of my ability through kindness and humility.”

Dr. Hernandez and the nine other recipients were honored during an awards banquet on March 24, in Santa Maria. Proceeds from the reception were donated to Future Leaders of America.

For the 18th year in a row, Allan Hancock College earned the highest transfer acceptance rate to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. A little more than 46 percent of Hancock applicants were accepted to the university for the fall 2019 semester.

Equating to 153 transferring Bulldogs, the cohort boasts an impressive cumulative GPA of 3.29. Most of the transferring students will enter the academic colleges of engineering, liberal arts, and agriculture. This year, Cal Poly offered admission to 1,590 transfer students out of a record 11,162 applicants.

Hancock is one of eight community colleges from five counties included in Cal Poly’s Region 6. Hancock’s transfer acceptance rate was 14 points higher than the college with the second-

highest rate in the region.

Ashley Brackett, transfer counselor in Hancock’s University Transfer Center, believes that Hancock’s high transfer acceptance rate to Cal Poly is due, in part, to its university transfer counseling process, coupled with the quality of instruction that students receive as they prepare to transfer.

“Our acceptance rate is so high because the college has a high-achieving, transferminded student population,” said Brackett. “The college’s counseling and instructional faculty are truly dedicated to student success. Counselors are well trained and aware of what is needed to transfer to four-year universities.”

For more information, call Hancock’s University Transfer Center at 805-922-6966, ext. 3363.

Conversational Confidence: New ESL Classes Focus on English in Everyday Situations

Conversational ESL classes help students learn English that they can use in everyday situations.

00 1

Learning a whole new language is never easy, and trying to use it in everyday conversations with native speakers can be intimidating.

It was with this specific situation in mind that Allan Hancock College Community Education developed two new noncredit conversational English as a Second Language (ESL) courses designed to give

English-language learners the confidence to go out and communicate with the Englishspeaking community in their everyday lives.

“These classes will give students the chance to learn how to use English that will be applicable to real-life settings and situations they face in their everyday lives,” said Associate Professor and Faculty Coordi-

nator for Community Education’s Noncredit ESL program Andria Keiser. “This will give them the practice they need to go out and have conversations in the community.”

Community Education began running the classes in summer 2019 and will offer them once again in the fall. The first course, Conversation for Beginning ESL, focuses on communicating in English in real-life situations. The course emphasizes vocabulary, pronunciation and grammar. The second course, Conversation for Intermediate ESL, focuses on similar topics for more advanced students.

Both conversational courses have a non-traditional feel. The curriculum in class is guided based on an assessment of the students and their conversational needs.

“We are really looking at where these students are going

to be using English and in what context,” said Keiser. “It’s an atmosphere where they are going to get a lot of practice with both their instructors and their classmates.”

It’s not just instructors who wanted the courses. Past Hancock noncredit ESL students requested noncredit conversational ESL classes in a recent survey, leading directly to the development and implementation of those courses.

“They told us they wanted the courses so they could raise their confidence in speaking in a variety of situations,” said Keiser.

These new classes are just one part of a wide range of Community Education noncredit ESL courses. From introductory to advanced levels, the courses are designed to address language skill development in the areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing for real-world situ-

ations. The NESL courses are tuition-free with open enrollment, reputable, and are offered in several different class times and locations so students can fit them into their schedules.

“Some of these students are just graduating from high school, others are adult learners attempting to earn their GED, or are taking a noncredit class for the very first time,” said Sofia Ramírez Gelpí, Ph.D., dean of Community Education at Hancock. “No matter why they are here, we are able to provide them the support they need.”

Students interested in enrolling in noncredit ESL courses for the fall are encouraged to register early to guarantee classes are not cancelled. For more information, visit www. hancockcollege.edu/community_education/noncredit-esl. php or call 1-805-922-6966 ext.

3209.

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

E4 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

Changing the Odds: AHC Class of 2019 Allan Hancock College celebrated another record-setting year during the college’s 98th annual Commencement ceremony held Friday, May 24, on the Santa Maria campus. This year, a total of 1,273 students earned a record 1,790 associate degrees in 94 different majors. The number of student graduates represents an increase of approximately 26 percent from the previous year, while the number of degrees earned equates to an increase of 17 percent.

Students also earned 912 certificates of achievement, a seven percent increase over last year.

Here’s a look at some of this year’s graduates.

Sabrina Rodriguez

Inri Serrano

Adilene Rojas

Transferring to Cal Poly, SLO

Transferring to San Jose State University to study business

Transferring to UC Berkeley to study Spanish

Allan Hancock College has “change my life in many aspects,

I started college in January “2017 with minimal English skills,

and not just academically.

Hancock has given me the opportunity to meet so many people, travel to different places, and has put me on the right path to success. It has also helped me with self-development through programs like the Career Readiness Academy, ASBG, SkillsUSA, and so much more.

One of my favorite experiences was when a few peers and I attended a leadership conference in Washington D.C. We had the opportunity to talk to some well-known advocates and visit different workshops. It was such an amazing experience.

so I was nervous about learning a new language. I took several English as a Second Language (ESL) classes because I realized that I needed to learn the language first in order to succeed in college. When I began the transition from noncredit to credit courses, I found it difficult, but with the help of my professors, counselors, family, and people from different college programs, I was able to get involved and choose a major to reach my goal of transferring to a university.

Vincent Partida

Amaris Baxter

Korinne Leal Camacho

Transferring to Fresno State University to study recreation management

Transferring to Grand Canyon University to study communications

Transferring to San Jose State University to study business administration

My experience at Hancock “allowed me to grow as a person, and learn responsibility and independence. More importantly, it taught me how to keep going and not give up on my goals. A fond memory I have of Hancock is when I swam with Allan Hancock College’s first ever women’s swim team in 2014.

Thanks to my coaches and teammates, it taught me the real meaning of being a team player, the value of discipline, and what teamwork is in its sincerity.

”

”

changed my life for “theHancock better because it made me open up to others and be less shy around people. I became a Student Ambassador and realized I loved working the Food Share every Thursday because I enjoy seeing people smile when we give them food. Seeing people smile and carry on with their day in a positive manner has definitely made for a memorable journey at Hancock.

”

changed my life for “theHancock better by saving me two years of being neck deep in student loans. My favorite Hancock memory is when – as a member of the college’s track team - I qualified for conference prelims and competed in San Diego. It was the best experience!

”

”

I originally began taking “courses at Hancock in the fall of 2007. However, after having to work a vast array of odd jobs, and experiencing homelessness, I re-entered Hancock in January of 2016. Thanks to transfer counselor David Hernandez, I was able to pinpoint the best program of study for me. Hancock allowed me to realize my potential for success. I discovered who I was intellectually and personally, and found my reason to inspire change in the world.

”

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COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | E5

PROMISE

BY THE NUMBERS • • • • • •

Increase of Enrollment

1,460 Hancock Promise students enrolled in the 2018-2019 academic year.

Percentage of Enrollment from district High Schools

 32%

2017 2018

35 percent increase in the number of North County high school graduates came to Hancock in the 20182019 academic year

2018

 27%

2017

49%

3006

2017

TOTAL

We expect our two-year graduation rates to jump next year as the first cohort completes their degrees.

2018

More than 12,000 elementary school children have experienced Bulldog Bound, the first phase of The Hancock Promise outreach program designed to create a hunger for higher education in younger students.

2017

2017

Nearly $3.5 million in gifts and pledges from 175 Donors

2018

2,972 TOTAL

 31%

2018

Top ten finalist for the national 2018 Bellwether Award.

32%

2016

 23%

37%

3,119

2015

36%

2,868 TOTAL

TOTAL

2018-2019 Enrollment of local first-time high school graduates SANTA YNEZ

124

+

%

56 HS GRADS

CABRILLO

46

+

143 HS GRADS

%

LOMPOC

45

+

%

148 HS GRADS

SANTA MARIA

21

+

296 HS GRADS

DELTA

%

79

+

%

100 HS GRADS

ORCUTT ACADEMY

34

+

82 HS GRADS

%

PIONEER

60

+

%

362 HS GRADS

RIGHETTI

ST. JOSEPH

57

+

43

+

%

269 HS GRADS

%

30 HS GRADS

Changing the odds AERA ENERGY

Hancock Promise Builder Aera Energy has shown its wholehearted support of The Hancock Promise with a gift of $25,000. The employees of Aera Energy have given countless hours of service to Bulldog Bound and are vital to our volunteer leadership at all levels.

Aera’s vital support makes them

an extremely valuable and important corporate partner to Allan Hancock College in educating students and seeing that they are ready for the vital, strong careers for which their education will prepare them.

Changing the odds Jim Fields and April Gillette

For Hancock Promise Leaders Jim Fields and April Gillette, being on the front lines of groundbreaking philanthropic movements with the power to change lives is nothing new. Jim, already an accomplished development professional, community leader, teacher, and writer, and his equally accomplished and distinguished wife, April; an honored civic leader, designer, and university instructor, met when they worked together, some years ago, on one of Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter’s well-known Habitat for Humanity Builds, in Watts, California. Together they went on to found the Habitat for Humanity, Peace Build, in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Families are

thriving in both landmark communities today.

Always seeking greater and more challenging social issues to tackle, after retiring from lauded careers in Los Angeles, the two began studies in the viticulture program here at Allan Hancock College and purchased land to plant their own vineyards. They completed

achieving goals. They experienced tremendous encouragement in a truly collaborative learning community and found the inspiration to give more.

Today, Jim is a member of the Allan Hancock College Foundation Board of Directors and he and April together are members of our President’s Circle. They support

eight degrees between them at Hancock, graduating with

The Hancock Promise with a gift of $10,000. Jim and April are leaders

distinction, together in 2014.

in funding The Hancock Promise because they know firsthand

Their time together at Hancock brought them to appreciate the exceptional and supportive faculty; true partners with students in

what kind of potential exists in the students with whom they shared such an important time.

Promise Partners PROMISE FOUNDERS Gifts of 1 million dollars or more Anonymous Rabobank PROMISE BUILDERS $30,000 TO $74,999 Bartlett Family Foundation Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation Mark & Dorothy Smith Family Foundation Santa Ynez Valley Foundation PROMISE LEADERS $15,000 - $29,999 Aera Energy The Murphy Family Foundation Pacific Gas & Electric Company PG&E Corporate Foundation Roy & Ida Eagle Foundation Santa Maria Kiwanis 4 Kids PROMISE SUSTAINERS $7,500 TO $14,999 Jim Fields & April Gillette Doris Lahr Union Bank Williams-Corbett Foundation Christopher & Charlotte Wrather Kevin Walthers & Shannon Elliott PROMISE MAKERS $3,000 TO $7,499 June Aiello Community Bank of Santa Maria Erik & Judy Frost Jon & Jennifer Hooten Charles & Judy Markline Leonard Miyahara Ron & Mary Nanning Brent & Fran Norris Janice Paulson Santa Barbara Teachers Federal Credit Union Santa Ynez Valley Rotary Club Foundation Thomas & Deborah Sherry Sue Sword 00 1

PROMISE MAJOR CONTRIBUTERS $1,000 - $2,999 Carol Anders Anonymous Association of Community College Trustees Benefit Trust Company Klaus & Lois Brown City of Solvang Zorus & Judith Colglazier Clos Pepe Vineyards, LLC William Connell & Louise D. Bilbro John & Marlyn Cox Diani Companies Dignity Health Marian Regional Medical Center ERG Operating Company, LLC Exxon Mobil Production Company Jeff & Rose Hall Roger & Priscilla Higgins Invest in Others Jean Jacoby Brad & Barbara Johnson Steve & Patricia Jorgan Laborer’sInternationalUnionofNorthAmerica,Local220 Bruce Lackey Donald A. Lahr Ann Foxworthy Lewellen & Royce Lewellen Limotta IT Bob & Sue Manning Richard Mahon Mike & Toni McCracken LeeAnne McNulty Melfred Borzall, Inc. Eric Melsheimer Richard & Patricia Melsheimer Michael & Susan Moats Candice Monge Eddie & Jennifer Murray Patrick & Laura Mullen Eilene Okerblom Alex Posada Jenelle Osborne Mary Lou Rabska & Tami Rabska Rotary Club of Lompoc Rotary Club of Santa Maria Breakfast Rotary Club of Santa Ynez Valley Rotary Club of Solvang Michael & Georgia Schrager Jack Scully Joseph & Chris Slaughter Ron Thatcher Rick & Marty Velasco Guy & Molly Carillo Walker Edwin Newhall Woods

PROMISE CONTRIBUTERS $100 - $999 AAUW- Santa Maria Leo & Carolyn Acquistapace Edmund & Rebecca Alarcio Tony Almaguer Carol Anders Big Red Marketing Jan Bartleson Richard Baum Kristine Blanchard Polly & Robin Blankenbaker Dean C. Borgman James & Denise Bray Brian Brooks Veronica Calibjo & E. Calinjo Jay & Victoria Conner Wynn & Yvonne Cook Ivan Cordero Anthony & Susan Cossa Lee-Volker & Michelle Cox Judith Dale Maggi Daane Michael & Carole Darlington Leonard Deaton & Mary Miller Adrienne Dodd Robert Domingos David & Constance Dunbar Rick Ellison Mary Falcon Gretchen Falvo Catherine M. Farly Michael Fernandez Mary L. Forth J. C. Friedman June Fusfield Stephen Gallion Sherry Fitz-Gerald Larry & Peggy Greer Beverly Grennan Barbara Grimmitt Mike & Stephanie Grogan Mrs. Willy Hall Allan & Darnell Hancock Ruth Reiner Hasman David Hernandez Susan Houghton & Larry Thompson Joan Jamieson Teressa Kahn

Paul & Salese Kanter Dan Karleskint Darlene Krouse Edward Kushner Margaret Lau James Ledford Tosha Lewis Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce Marna Lombardi Michelle Machado Toby McLaughlin Diane McMahon Esmeralda Mendoza Sam & Elizabeth Miller Michael & Susan Moats Marguerite Moreton Bill & Stacy Murphy New Life Bath, Kitchen & Painting Anita & Leslie Nichols Robert Nichols Nohemy Ornelas Pacific Coast Energy Dan & Glenda Payne Joseph Plummer & Katherine Smith George Radford Stephen Rasmussen & Thuy Thi Tran Mark Rick Stephanie &Tom Robb Glenda Rogers John H. Sabedra Sandra Saunders Michael Sell Franziska Shepard George Smith III Michael & Dana Smith Raissa Smoral Chris Stevens Jill Stivers Frank & Helen Vasquez Rick & Martha Velasco Robert Weir Roger & Catherine Welt Wild West Pizza Melvin & Elizabeth Wright

Hancock Promise Endowment

$ 3,497,402 $10 Million $9 million $8 Million $7 Million $6 Million $5 Million $4 Million $3 Million $2 Million $1 Million

$

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

E6 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

Their Night to Shine: Hancock Honors Students at Annual Scholarship Banquet Smiles, laughter and inspiring stories filled the air of the Joe White Memorial Gym on May 23, as the Allan Hancock College Foundation hosted a night of celebration for the some of the college’s best and brightest students.

Those students received the celebrity treatment that night at the foundation’s annual Scholarship Banquet. This year, a total of 428 scholarships worth more than $500,000 were awarded to 324 Allan Hancock College students.

“This is such a great night for our students and their families, as well as everyone who makes the scholarships possible,” said Hancock Executive Director of College Advancement Jon Hooten, who emceed the banquet.

“It’s a testament to the investment our community makes to changing the odds for Hancock students.”

Hancock student Jennifer Cervantes received the prestigious Marian Hancock Scholarship. Named in honor of the late wife of Captain G. Allan Hancock, the $10,000 scholarship is awarded to one outstanding

Hundreds of students received more than $500,000 in scholarships at Allan Hancock College Foundation Scholarship Banquet. student each year who exemplifies service to the school, scholastic achievement, and personal conduct. Cervantes was the 54th student to win the Marian Hancock Scholarship since 1967.

“You can really start here and go anywhere,” said Cervantes.

Cervantes is a first-generation college student and graduated with high honors and a 4.0 grade-point average on May 24. She earned two associate degrees

at Hancock and plans to transfer to either Berkeley or Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she hopes to obtain bachelor’s degrees in sociology and social work/welfare.

Cervantes said her future goals include starting her own nonprofit organization to improve social conditions and promote cultural and institutional change for marginalized and disenfranchised groups.

“I want to focus on improving the lives of children

experiencing poverty, immigrants, and those who are struggling academically and financially,” said Cervantes.

“I aspire to this because I know just how many nonprofit organizations helped my own family survive throughout the years. I want to be able to give back to my community all that it has given to me.”

A scholarship committee composed of 15 Hancock faculty and staff chose the 2019 recipients from more

than 1,000 applications.

Scholarship recipients did not know the specific scholarship or dollar amount awarded until they met the donor at the reception.

Nicolasa I. Sandoval, Ph.D., delivered the keynote address at the banquet. Sandoval is serving her seventh year as a member of the California State Board of Education and is also the education director for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and a trustee of the Santa Barbara Foundation. During her speech, Sandoval encouraged the recipients to share their powerful and inspiring stories with the world.

“You are leaders. You are teachers. You are wisdom keepers for everyone in this room,” said Sandoval, who was also a former Hancock student. “When you share any part of your journey with us, your story helps each of us in ways that you may never witness or even imagine. It is a true and powerful gift to have.”

Hancock Student Competes in National SkillsUSA Competition Allan Hancock College graduate Inri Serrano has the gift of gab, and that gift took him all the way to a national competition.

In late June, Serrano traveled to Lousiville, KY, to compete in the extemporaneous speaking category of the SkillsUSA national championships. Serrano’s journey to Louisville began after he won a gold medal in the same category at the SkillsUSA California state-level competition during the weekend of April 25-28 in Ontario, CA, while he was still enrolled at Hancock and preparing to graduate.

“It felt great,” said Serrano, who is majoring in business administration at Hancock and will transfer to San José State University this fall.

“Public speaking is definitely a skill you need in any career field. As a business major, I definitely am going to need this skill and I knew that if I took on this challenge, I’d be

bettering myself and building that skill.”

For the extemporaneous speaking competition, Serrano was presented with a pre-selected topic and given just five minutes to prepare a short speech. 2019 was the very first time Serrano had ever participated in a SkillsUSA competition. He said he was encouraged to try his hand at SkillsUSA while participating in Hancock’s Career Readiness Academy.

“I knew that if I wanted to grow my speaking skills, I would have to get out of my comfort zone,” Serrano said.

“I really benefited from the whole experience. I got to meet so many students who were there to develop their skills and become better.”

SkillsUSA is a national organization created to teach students the technical skills required for employment in career technical educational fields, as well as the soft skills required in any modern

workplace. The organization is a partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives that work together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. The organization holds competitions annually to recognize the achievements of career and technical education students and to encourage them to strive for excellence.

“The SkillsUSA program provides students with a wonderful platform to demonstrate the skills they acquire in the classroom,” said Hancock Project Director for Career Center and K-12 Partnerships, Thomas Lamica. “The competitions are a great place to showcase those skills.”

This year’s SkillsUSA national championship featured more than 6,400 students from across the United States competing in 103 different categories. For more information about SkillsUSA, visit www.skillsusa.org.

Hancock graduate Inri Serrano traveled to compete in the SkillsUSA National Championship competition in June.

Hancock’s Public Safety Spring Graduates Are Ready to Serve Their Communities Spring of 2019 welcomed nearly 100 hardworking Hancock students committed to keeping their communities safe after graduating from Allan Hancock College’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.

A total of 95 recruits graduated from one of the PSTC’s academies and moved on

to serve as firefighters, law enforcement officers, correctional deputies and emergency medical service technicians for local agencies across the Central Coast.

“This is the core of what a community college does. We train public servants,” said Hancock Superintendent/ President Kevin G. Walthers,

These Fire Academy recruits were among the 95 graduates of Allan Hancock College’s Public Safety Training Complex this spring.

Ph.D. “When you have an emergency and you need someone to respond, you want the person showing up to help to be from Allan Hancock College because they have the very best training at the best facilities.”

The PSTC’s Fire Academy kicked off the spring graduations on May 17, with a total of 29 recruits graduating and earning their Fire Fighter I certifications. Several of the newly- minted firefighters were hired by the Chumash Fire Department in Santa Ynez, the Santa Barbara City Fire Department and CAL FIRE’s South Bay Fire Department in Los Osos.

Thirty-four recruits graduated from Hancock’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Academy on May 23. During the 16 weeks they spent training at the academy, the cadets learned

critical skills such as patient handling and moving, emergency vehicle driving and more.

On June 6, 18 recruits graduated from a 21-week Law Enforcement Academy. During the 850 hours of instruction the academy requires, the recruits received training in community policing, search and seizure, firearms, ethics, investigation procedures, patrol techniques, arrest and control, physical training, CPR/First Aid, emergency vehicle operations and other important skills. Each recruit shot more than 35,000 rounds of ammunition, passed 26 written exams, and ran more than 800 miles as part of their academy training. After graduating, all 18 recruits began careers with local law enforcement agencies, including the Arroyo Grande,

Grover Beach, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo and Santa Maria police departments, as well as the San Luis Obispo County and Santa Barbara County sheriff ’s offices and the UC Santa Barbara Police Department.

Spring graduations at the PSTC concluded with 14 students graduating from Hancock’s CORE Custody Academy on June 14. The six-week academy is designed to prepare students mentally, morally, emotionally and physically to work as correctional officers. Thirteen of the spring recruits will begin their new careers working as custody deputies for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff ’s Office.

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Santa Maria Special Section1

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Sunday, August 4, 2019 | E7

PCPA Theater Announces 56th Season Lineup

Play readings, musicals, comedies, and dramas are set to delight and stir the senses for PCPA’s 2019–20 season, presented in three different venues on the Central Coast.

A spectacular holiday production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid will run from Nov. 7 through Dec. 22 in the Marian Theater. PCPA will collaborate with director Melissa Rain Anderson to bring breathtaking aerial feats and imaginative theatrical magic to tell the story of Ariel, the beautiful young mermaid who longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most glorious score

sings its way onto the stage in The Sound of Music.

Maria is a high-spirited postulant nun struggling to fit into convent life, and who seeks solace for her lonely heart in the foothills of the Austrian Alps. She is dispatched to serve as governess for the seven precious and precocious children of the widowed, broken, and stoic, Captain von Trapp. Directed

by Resident Artist Kitty Balay, The Sound of Music will play the Marian Theater April 23–May 10, then under the stars in the Solvang Festival Theater June 11-July 5.

Riding on the rhythm of the 1960s R&B, Rock, and Doo-Wop, the hilarious Little Shop of Horrors,

a musical hit sci-fi homage to B-movies, has devoured the hearts of theater goers for over 30 years. Mushnik’s flower shop on Skid Row is about to go under until meek assistant Seymour happens upon a new breed of plant with an unusual appetite for blood. Directed by Mark Booher, Little Shop of Horrors plays June 25–July 3, Marian Theater and July 10–Aug. 2, Solvang Festival Theater.

Tickets for Season 56 will go on sale this October.

For a full listing of shows and more information, visit http://www.pcpa.org/season56pr.html or contact the box office at (805) 922-8313.

Hancock Presents “Creative Journeys” Fine Arts Student Show Paintings, sculptures and even digital artwork. No matter what media they chose, the talent and creativity of Allan Hancock College’s fine art students was clearly on display during the

college’s Fine Arts Student Art Show at Ann Foxworthy Gallery this spring.

Titled “Creative Journeys,” the show ran from April 30 to May 28 and featured more than 80 pieces of unique

artwork produced by the college’s fine arts students during the 2018-19 academic year. The art represented a diverse range of work from the college’s fine arts, graphic design and multimedia

programs. The works were created using a wide array of traditional and digital mediums, including painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, graphic design, animation and photography. Some of

The “Creative Journeys” show at Hancock’s Ann Foxworthy Gallery showcased student art in a variety of mediums.

the digital artwork will be shown through projection and on iPads.

“It was so wonderful to see all the different talents, styles and student backgrounds come together in a group showing that represents our fine arts department and the student’s journey,” said Ann Foxworthy Gallery Director Laura-Susan Thomas. “Some of them are just beginning to explore and walk down their creative path, while others are artists coming back to refresh their skills or learn a new art form.”

Many of the students showing at the gallery are graduated as part of Hancock’s 2019 class, or are working toward receiving associate in arts (A.A.) degrees in the fine arts, graphic design, and multimedia programs at Hancock. Many of those students plan to complete their bachelor of fine arts (B.F.A.) degrees at a four-year university, Thomas said.

Fun and Science Collide at Hancock’s Annual Friday Night Science Event Thousands of local children and youth got the chance to deepen their knowledge of science with hands-on demonstrations and spectacular stage shows during Allan Hancock College’s annual Friday Night Science event.

The event, held May 3 on Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, drew more than 1,500 visitors, and featured dozens of interactive experiments, exhibits, and demonstrations created by Hancock students and faculty for children of all ages. Each exhibit was designed to demonstrate a scientific principle with the overall goal of fostering children’s interest in science and STEM. “Every year I’m amazed at the kinds of questions kids bring up and the novel discoveries they make,” said Hancock physics instructor Rob Jorstad. “Because 00 1

the kids get to play with the demos instead of just looking at them, the knowledge really sticks with them. They really get engaged and leave excited about science.”

Approximately 100 Hancock students helped design, test and build the experiments and demonstrations.

Many of them were at the event to help run the handson exhibits and act as translators for Spanish-speaking guests.

This year, demonstrations included fan-favorites from past Friday Night Science events, as well as brand new ones. Returning exhibits include a walk-in pinhole camera, a pedal-powered generator, glowing rocks, smoke ring cannons and a mirror maze. New exhibits included the Lissajous Lounge; a themed area where participants can view largescale demonstrations that

visualize resonance, soundwaves and oscillation.

“It’s mindblowing,” said Jorstad. “Think of it as a Spirograph on steroids.”

Hancock’s chemistry faculty organized and performed an explosive stage

show that utilized substances such as dry ice, methane, and thermite to demonstrate the different physical states of matter.

“The chemists explained physical states and using chemical demonstrations to

change matter from solids to liquids, and to gases,” said Hancock chemistry instructor Dustin Nouri, who performed in the stage show.

“Gun Cotton and Thermite are always the most popular demos.”

Hundreds of students received more than $500,000 in scholarships at Allan Hancock College Foundation Scholarship Banquet.

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E8 | Sunday, August 4, 2019

COMMUNITY PRIDE 2019

Santa Maria Special Section1

I’m changing the odds for both of us us.

“

As a working mother and college athlete, life is challenging for AHC student Tashara Pruett. But, Hancock is changing her odds as she pursues a career in nursing to provide a better life for her family.

Change your odds at Hancock today!

Register for fall classes now.

Fall classes begin August 19. www.hancockcollege.edu/fall

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