The Boys and Girls Club of Merced County, which has a chapter in Gustine, wrapped up a rewarding summer with smiles, cooking, and a whole lot of community spirit.
Club President See Lee extended heartfelt thanks to local families, principals, and community partners during a celebratory event, saying, “It has been absolutely, absolutely rewarding for us as an organization.”
This summer, the club participated in a national cooking competition sponsored by Dole and the Partnership for America, a program founded by former First Lady Michelle Obama, bringing exciting opportunities to Gustine.
When the club struggled to find a chef, searching as far as Merced, Stanislaus, and Fresno counties, their luck changed when Mary Murillo, a dedicated volunteer and parent, stepped up. “Mary was very gracious in volunteering and donating her time to the organization and teaching our club members how to cook,” said Lee, inviting Mary and her daughter, Sophia, a fellow club member, to join her. To honor her, Lee presented Mary with a personalized chef jacket and shared a touching snippet from Mary’s biography:
“In my family, food was and is what connects all of us. My husband and my daughter Sophia often join me in the kitchen, watching, learning, and enjoying making a real meal together,” Murillo’s statement read. “I try to encourage my cooking classmates to do the same.” Lee also announced a forthcoming culinary scholarship for Mary, made possible through the California Restaurant Association, allowing her to continue her passion for teaching.
Adding to the celebration, Lee introduced the crowd to Gustine’s very own little star, Daleyza Ángulo, who cooked her way to fame with her Chipotle Steak Tacos, winning second place in the national competition against talented young chefs from across the nation, including Jackson, Mississippi, and Baltimore, Maryland. “Daleyza stole the hearts of all the folks there,” Lee said. “She’s just adorable, very photogenic, and incredibly talented.” For her impressive showing, Daleyza received a $500 U.S. Savings Bond, which her mom, Christina, hopes will go toward college one day.
Christina Ángulo expressed pride in her daughter’s achievement, sharing, “It was a really good experience for both of us. From the cameras to being on the news with KTLA, it helped her open up more. We are so grateful for this opportunity, and we’re excited to come back next year—hopefully, for first place!”
Superintendent Bryan Ballenger praised the Boys and Girls Club partnership, emphasizing the value it brings to students and parents alike. “These are the kinds of experiences we want for our scholars and families,” Dr. Ballenger stated. “The last three years have been wonderful, and we truly value the partnership here in Gustine.”
With plenty of delicious memories and a “pineapple-tastic” attitude, the Boys and Girls Club is looking forward to what’s next, proving that when it comes to serving the community, they’re always cooking up something special.
