Councilman John Procter asked about the cheerleaders’ record. “They are outstanding” in competition and take top prizes, said Grant.“We’re had to struggle,” to continue to make possible the Washington, D.C. 8th Grade Tours, Coordinator Larry Alamillo told the Council. The trips have been a “tradition for more than 20 years” and are no longer formally affiliated with Isbell Middle School or any school district.Vice Mayor Ralph Fernandez asked how the trips are funded, and Alamillo said that students raise their own funds, which are handled by the Santa Paula Community Fund: “The school never paid for it,” and the next trip is scheduled for June 13. Alamillo said that fundraising is no longer allowed on the Isbell campus, and several students told the Council about the trip requirements and value of the program.“I had the unique experience of being” a trip chaperone in the past, said Mayor Bob Gonzales, who noted the educational benefits of the program. “I urge anybody looking forward to making contributions to consider this,” he added.“We’re just trying to keep it alive,” said Alamillo, who said that those interested in learning more about the program can visit the website, www.spgoes2dc.com.Procter asked what the city might be able to do to raise awareness of the trip and its need of donations, and City Attorney Karl Berger suggested that the group advertise on Time Warner Cable Government Channel 10.
Council hears needs of youth cheerleaders, Washington, D.C. trip
March 05, 2008
Santa Paula City Council
What is needed for diverse youth activities was brought to the City Council by several public speakers, who asked at the February 19 meeting that the city provide some help.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesWhat is needed for diverse youth activities was brought to the City Council by several public speakers, who asked at the February 19 meeting that the city provide some help.“One of the great hidden secrets of Santa Paula is our young girls, our cheerleaders,” said Janet Grant. The cheerleaders are not affiliated with area schools, and volunteers find they must “go round begging for a place for them to practice.... This is the fourth year” that the cheerleaders have performed admirably in competitions, acting also as positive ambassadors for the city.Although the area girls compete against about 500 teams with approximately 8,000 members, “Santa Paula comes out on top every year.” Grant asked that the Council consider affiliating the approximately 90-member local group with the city’s Recreation Department, which could provide practice space.“The girls have been turned down in the schools, and practice in parking lots,” among other less than ideal locations, noted Grant. “They earn their own money for uniforms” and are dedicated to the team, she added.“We do have some buildings empty here in Santa Paula,” said Councilman Ray Luna. “Maybe we could contact them” about possible use by the cheerleaders.
