On Saturday, August 17, 2013 the United Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County will celebrate their longtime friend and supporter Sal Rodriguez’s 70th birthday at Tucker’s Grove Park. The bash, expected to have around 175 guests is being hosted by former UCLA Basketball Coach, Ben Howland. Howland met Rodriguez over four decades ago when he joined the United Boys and Girls Clubs Goleta Clubhouse as a sixth-grader and continues to be in contact with his mentor.

Rodriguez proved to be very instrumental during Howland’s formative years. “What I give back will never come close to what I received from United Boys & Girls Clubs,” said Howland. Howland attended Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta, CA before moving to Cerritos, CA.

Rodriguez grew up with the Goleta Boys & Girls Club and so it was natural for him to contribute to a place where he blossomed. The United Boys and Girls Clubs are his livelihood, and he has worn many hats in the organization including Goleta Clubhouse unit director and executive director. “My gift will be my legacy to a great organization that continues to shape lives every generation,” said Rodriguez, who now, semi-retired, holds the title Events Director/Transportation & Fleet Manager of the United Girls and Boys Clubs of Santa Barbara County. Rodriguez attended San Marcos High School.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITY

WHAT: Sal Rodriguez’s 70th birthday party hosted by Ben Howland, former UCLA basketball coach

WHEN: [Best media opportunity between 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.]

WHERE: Tucker’s Grove Park, 805 San Antonio Creek Road at Cathedral Oaks in Santa Barbara (in the Kiwanis Meadows section of the park, which is on the far right)

WHO: Sal Rodriguez, Ben Howland, former UCLA basketball coach, United Boys and Girls Clubs representatives, friends and invited guests

MEDIA CONTACT: [DIANA STARR LANGLEY ON-SITE CONTACT]

Many of Saturday’s attendees will be connected to the United Boys and Girls Clubs somehow, whether they are volunteers, supporters, friends or past club-members themselves. “I want to thank Ben for putting this together, even though I didn’t agree with it, and also thanks to Chuck Melendez and Art Derueda for helping organize event,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez’ son, Bo Rodriguez, and sister, Becky Valles, have also been instrumental in the planning process.

About the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County

The United Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those most in need, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Today the Clubs help over 7,000 youth throughout Santa Barbara County. Youth can come to the Clubs to be with friends, participate in sports and engage in educational activities. Children may also be referred to the Clubs by schools, counselors or other agencies as a means to gain a positive experience socially, educationally, physically and emotionally under guidance of caring adults. For more information please call 805-681-1315 or visit www.unitedbg.org.

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