Celebrating Jesse Acebedo: golf and legacy

The 8th Annual Jesse Acebedo Memorial Golf Tournament is set to take place on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the North Kern Golf Course. Thevent honors the life of Jesse Acebedo while supporting the Wasco Community Scholarship Association.

Jesse Acebedo was a cherished figure in the community. His passing in a 2017 auto accident left a lasting impact on his family and friends. After his death, countless stories emerged about Jesse's dedication to others, inspiring his sons - Keith, Ben and Jeff - to create the memorial golf tournament. "We heard all of these stories about who he was, so we decided a great way to give back was to raise some money and give it back to the community," Keith explained.

The idea of hosting a golf tournament was a natural fit, as Jesse, who loved playing golf, passed that passion on to his sons. "He taught all of us how to play, so we all play to this day," Keith added. The tournament not only brings together friends and family but also gives participants the opportunity to support a cause close to Jesse's heart - the Wasco Community Scholarship Association.

Jesse served 34 years in law enforcement, starting his career with the original Wasco Police Department and later transitioning to the Kern County Sheriff's Office. Outside of work, he coached youth sports teams, served on the school board, taught swimming lessons to neighborhood children, and even announced high school football games. His leadership extended to St. John's Church and the Wasco Rose Parade, where he was the Grand Marshal in 2014. He was a recruiter for the R.M. Pyles Boys Camp, where he would take underprivileged youth on wilderness backpacking trips "to show the kids the world was so much bigger than the streets of Wasco or McFarland."

Jesse's commitment to education stemmed from his own humble beginnings. Born into a family of migrant farmworkers, Jesse understood the value of hard work and education. "That's why he was so pro-education," Keith said. "He believed in making yourself smarter and giving yourself the opportunity to do more." This belief in education helped inspire his children, all of whom went on to college and successful careers. "It was about, 'Here are the tools to be successful, and one of those tools is education. Be smart; use your head.' "

Known for his wisdom and honesty, Jesse built close relationships with the many young people he had contact with over the years. "When you talked to my dad, you were going to get honesty from him," Keith shared. "Sometimes that's what we need to hear in life - an honest answer." But Jesse was also known for his humor and love of life. "He loved a good laugh, music and was just a good human being. My dad was larger than life. He knew everybody."

"Come join us for this special event and help us celebrate his life. Sponsorships are still available, and we are accepting donations for prizes and giveaways," he said.

The North Kern Golf Course is located at 17412 Quality Road in Bakersfield. The tournament kicks off with an 8 a.m. shotgun start in a four-person scramble format. Participants receive a tee prize for $130 per player, and breakfast and lunch are included. Those interested in sponsoring a tee or learning more can reach out via email at JesseWCSA@gmail.com or JeffAcebedo:Jacepar72@gmail.com. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Wasco Community Scholarship Association.