Assemblymember Marie Waldron honors community leaders during Hispanic Heritage Month

ESCONDIDO – Assemblymember Marie Waldron, R-Valley Center, commemorated Hispanic Heritage Month recently by honoring five individuals who have shown what it means to give back to the community and make it a better place to live.

Michael Pacheco, a member of the Palomar Health District Board, dedicated decades of service as a first responder in both the medical and fire departments, applying his expertise in emergency planning for major events in San Diego and volunteering his time at various organizations.

Oscar Cifuentes, a retired senior chief petty officer who served with honor in the U.S. Navy for 24 years, continued his lifelong dedication to serving his country and community. Alongside his wife, Carmen, he established the RE/MAX Country franchise in Valley Center in 2018, providing guidance and support to the local community.

Mary McBride, trustee and acting board president of the Fallbrook Union Elementary School District, set an example of community involvement through her commitment to both the district and the greater Fallbrook community.

Luis Ruiz, the owner of Urban Shindigs and L1920, takes on multiple roles as a coding and robotics instructor for the Alpine Union School District and as the honorary mayor of Alpine, representing the Alpine Chamber of Commerce.

David Rios, principal of Mountain Empire High School and a former principal at other local schools, dedicated his career to promoting the growth of students, including those with special needs and an emphasis on building positive relationships with students.

“I commend these outstanding individuals for their exceptional contributions to our community. We look forward to celebrating their future achievements and wish them continued success in all future endeavors,” Waldron said.

Assemblymember Marie Waldron, R-Valley Center, represents the 75th Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes the cities of Poway, Santee, portions of the city of San Diego and most of rural eastern and northern San Diego County.