The banquet room at the Handlery Hotel, this past Saturday afternoon, was overflowing with excited students, and some very proud parents, who were there to receive scholarship and incentive awards from the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). This annual event not only recognizes the successful student but also recognizes those students who have overcome personal obstacles and have shown growth and are on the path to success.
The scholarships presented at the 2002 Scholarship Awards Luncheon recognized 59 students, some as young as pre-schoolers to college, mainly Hispanic students from the South Bay, with the hope of providing these students with incentives, support, and encouragement to continue succeeding in education.
Serving as the Mistress of Ceremonies for the afternoon was Renee Sanchez, a news reporter for channel 8, who introduced the guest speaker Dave Bejarano, San Diego Chief of Police.
Mr. Bejarano related his story to the young audience sharing with them the difficulties he faced growing up in the barrios of Texas and with the support of family and friends he was able to succeed in life. He explained that success is built on self confidence, a positive attitude, determination, and a dream.
The LULAC scholarship awards banquet was a huge success because, under the leadership of Bea Estrada, the membership works all year to raise the monies, 100 percent of which goes toward scholarships and incentive awards.
Another major component of LULAC’s success is the continued support of local businesses including: Macy’s, Home Depot, XLTN Radio Latino, Target, Viejas Enterprises, Home & Garden Party, Anheuser-Busch of Sales of San Diego, Party Plastics, Seaworld Adventure Park, Community Health Group, Pacific Bell, Nordstrom, San Diego Padres, Zoological Society, XEWT TV, Smart and Final, and La Prensa San Diego
Individual and organizational contributors include Cherie Morante, The Dunn Family, The Martinez Foundation, American Legion Post 6, Audree Reynolds, and Ms. Lydia Perez.
The Anheuser-Busch Eagle Achievement Adult Education Award, presented by John Castillo, Special Marketing Manager, was presented to Marisol Alvarez who attends National City Adult School.
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