Medranos, McCurdys and Knights named Grand Marshals

The Grand Marshals and Honorary Grand Marshals organization for the Rose Festival every year are examples of selfless servants in the Wasco community. This year, they are James and Helen Medrano, Mike and Chris McCurdy and the Wasco Knights of Columbus.

"For my husband, his first words were, "What did I do?" and mine were just like, wow. I was surprised and caught off guard, and even to be thought of and nominated is just amazing," said Helen Medrano. "It's one of the ultimate honors, but again, we don't volunteer to be recognized, but we're being recognized, so we both want to say thank you."

James's community service includes serving as a VFW commander for many years and as treasurer of the WHS Ag Boosters, of which he is still an active member. He has also volunteered at the local schools, enjoying his time as a Dr. Seuss reader and science fair judge. James was Deputy Grand Knight for the Wasco Knights of Columbus and served breakfast at the Relay for Life.

Helen's involvement includes teaching for 34 years in the Wasco Union Elementary School District, and she has taught GED classes and catechism at St. John's Catholic Church. She's been a Girl Scout leader, a coach for t-ball, a member of the Wasco Parent Club (as one of the founders), secretary for the Wasco Tiger Shark swim team and a Relay for Life volunteer. She has traveled to Washington, D.C., with the migrant junior high students and served as an adjunct professor at Bakersfield College, teaching math.

James said, "There were so many volunteers available when I was growing up; I just felt that when I became an adult, I wanted to do my part based on what was handed to me when I was younger. One good turn deserves another."

When asked what they look forward to at this year's Rose Festival, Helen responded, "It's connecting with people. It's about still believing in our strong community and Wasco."

Community service is something they do in partnership as a marriage. "We both believe in volunteering and helping in any way we can. I'll be there if he needs me to be there for the AG Boosters or at an event. It's the causes we're passionate about that make us support each other."

Sharon Criner nominated the Medranos as Grand Marshals. She said her reasons for nominating them were "Not only because they are family to me but because they do so much for the community. James goes around town and puts up flags for every occasion. He is military. You can call them; they will be right there to help you, no questions asked. You can count on them no matter what. We call him Uncle James. He has been my dad's best friend since high school. They call each other brother."

Chris and Mike McCurdy said what thrills them most about the festival is seeing everyone, including the out-of-town visitors who come to join the festivity, and the excitement of being the Grand Marshals because it's an honor. "Our close family will be there to help us celebrate."

Like the Medranos, she was very surprised. "I feel like there are other people who deserve it. I'm a giver, not a receiver."

Their community service efforts are extensive in Wasco. "We do a lot at Westside Family Fellowship. I've been going there for 35 years. We've done a variety of things. I taught Sunday school. We've helped with community events, vacation Bible school, greeters at the door, served as ushers, cooked and gone out on clean-up days. We are there wherever there is a need, and we try to be there."

"My husband coached the football Packers/Bengals for seven years. We've always coached when our children were little when we were younger. We were strongly involved. It was the Packers, and it's very special to our hearts. We also did food giveaways and holiday baskets for many years."

When asked what being a Grand Marshal means, she said, "It's just special. I've watched people do it my whole life, and as a child, I watched the Grand Marshals in the parade. It's just a sense of community."

She thinks the Rose Festival contributes to the community spirit in Wasco. "I think it's a builder and pride that our town can do something like this, that it's been a long tradition, and that the tradition continues. I think it's great."

Pat Ketcherside has known the McCurdys for decades. "The McCurdy's have been a part of Wasco their entire lives. They are wonderful people who are always willing to help and deeply involved in our community. They've supported Wasco for years, especially the youth, and have had all their children and two daughters-in-law working at Wasco High School. Their dedication to Wasco is unmatched, and they truly deserve the honor of being Grand Marshals. I'm very proud to call them my friends."

Pastor Johnny and Sukie Martinez of Westside Family Fellowship have known the McCurdys for many years. "The McCurdy family exemplifies everything wonderful about our community. As long-time residents with deep roots in our church and local business, they have consistently demonstrated their dedication to service, warmth and commitment. Having known their family for many years, we've seen their support for our church and community."

Hector Avila is the Grand Knight of the Wasco Knights of Columbus. Upon hearing that his organization had been selected as Honorary Grand Marshals, he said, "My first feeling was amazement because there are so many others in the community who contribute."

Their community service includes bringing the Houchin Blood Bank to Wasco at least four times a year to conduct blood drives. "We raise money to help the Bakersfield Pregnancy Center. We have community events such as festivals during the fall and spring and coordinate the Global Wheelchair Foundation, a global mission. Still, locally, we help anyone who needs a wheelchair. We also sponsor a Rose Queen every year and host poster and essay contests for the children."

Of the recognition, he said, "I believe that what it says is that the committee involved with choosing the Honorary Grand Marshals sees us as a presence of good morals, strong faith and a model example of our community."

Avila is excited about the festival. "It's the smiling faces, the food, the music and the great atmosphere that comes with the festival. You're going to go, and you're going to have a good time."