Fallbrook local presents Cesar Chavez Legacy award

FALLBROOK - Fallbrook resident Leticia Maldonado/Stamos was selected to present the Cesar Chavez Legacy award to entertainment legend Edward James Olmos at the annual dinner event at the Millennial Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles on April 6.

Maldonado/Stamos, a member of the board of directors of the Cesar Chavez Foundation, was delighted to do the honors because “Eddie’s commitment to the cause of farm workers has been consistent and deep for decades. Also because his dedication to the betterment of local communities through his many projects outside of entertainment inspires so many of us to keep working diligently within our own communities.”

One such project is the 20-year-old Latino Book and Family Festivals, which Olmos conducts annually in six different cities throughout California. The Northern San Diego County Festival is scheduled for Sept. 15 at Mira Costa College.

Maldonado/Stamos credits the Latino Book Festival for inspiring the creation 15 years ago of Fallbrook A Leer/Reading Family Literacy, Cesar Chavez Day of Service and Learning, which encourages literacy in the homes of hundreds of Fallbrook families and community service with over 125 local students annually. The event is conducted entirely by volunteers.

The Cesar Chavez Foundation has sponsored the backpacks for the past several years and local businesses, individuals and foundations provide funding for books, t-shirts and supplies.

This year, Fallbrook A Leer/Reading will take place at the Maie Ellis cafeteria on Saturday, April 14 beginning at 9:30 a.m. The event is open to the public but space is limited so families must register through their local schools. Children who attend will receive backpacks with free books and parents will participate in workshops on literacy. There will be crafts and music from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Crafts Faire as well.