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Youth Services Martin Luther King Education Center E-Newsletter
| Dec. 2010 |
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| What's new at the MLK Ed. Center? |
We are in full swing with students utilizing the multitude of opportunities, presented to them by the MLK teachers and staff. In the last couple months, the student's have participated in many holiday activities ranging from carving pumpkins (some for the first time), walking through the Eugene Cemetery, while learning about historic community members, and working to prepare a delicious feast at our 5th Annual Holiday Meal.
 | | Multi-Cultural Resource Fair |
The Department of Youth Services hosted the 2010 Multi-Cultural Resource Fair and a group of MLK students were able to attend. Youth received information from community agencies on services different services available to them within our community, learned of employment prospects, and future educational opportunities. The students were encouraged by all of the positive interactions they had with the community representatives.
In order to celebrate the successful completion of the first quarter of the school year studentsspend a morning practicing their sportsmanship skills, at Eugene Emerald Lanes.
Students enjoyed the competition with staff and encouraged each other on every spare and strike. Everyone involved had a very entertaining time.
 | | Emerald Lanes |
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| MLK Ed. Center In the News |
 | | Jose Alvarez & Samantha Flowers |
Once KEZI's caught wind of our 5th Annual Holiday Meal, they came out to film a great piece! Take a moment to watch the clip, here! |
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MLK Presentations |
* HIV alliance presented information on prevention and safe sex practices.
* Students took a trip to the University of Oregon's Testing Center and UO Bookstore.
* Laura Vinson, a Safeway Representative, presented information on Safeway's hiring process and tips on interviewing skills.
* Women's Space gave a presentation on healthy relationships.
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| Lane Workforce Partnership; Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program | |
The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) program targets youth who are at risk of dropping out of school. The goal of this program is to help youth earn a high school diploma or GED, while obtaining and mastering their employment skills.
Contractors work in partnership with schools, social service organizations, local businesses, and parents to provide a comprehensive program of services which address the needs of youth. Services to youth ages 14-21 are offered on a year-round basis. Services include:
� Tutoring
� Study skills training and instruction leading to secondary school completion
� Alternative secondary school offerings
� Occupational skill training
� Leadership development opportunities
� Supportive services � Adult mentor for at least 12 months � Follow-up services for a least a year � Comprehensive guidance and counseling In addition, youth participate in a work experience component that provides them with the opportunity to explore careers, learn basic job skills and learn responsibilities of maintaining a job. They are kept aware of their progress and areas of improvement. |
| Student Highlight; John Hall |
MLK Education Center wants to recognize John Hall for his excellent work in our DOL and WIA programs. John began working in our job training/work readiness program in July 2009 and he successfully completed 500 hours our Horticulture Program. John's DYS case was closed in December 2009, and he was hired as a Lane County Crew Leader on the Forest Crew.
 | | John Hall |
John spent his last day on the crew at the Farmer's Market. He sold organic produce and native plants, which he helped plant and cultivate in the MLK Farm. John very much enjoyed working with this program. John is proud of his accomplishments and the skills he's gained!! Not only has John grown in his technical skills, but he has also learned valuable leadership and communication skills. John is proud of his new positive work references, in particular his references from US Forest Service employees which he worked closey with on exciting projects.
A BIG Congratulations to John for obtaining a new job, at Accent Roofing!!! John currently works full time, trying to get all the houses done before the hard rain kicks in. John says he's learning a lot from his new boss and is gaining new skills with different tools. John expressed appreciation for his boss' skills, his willingness to teach him, and his ability to help him with pruchasing the tools John needs!
We are so proud of John, and we all wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors! |
| Construction and Utility Fair |
 | | Cody Elkins and Chaz Clausen |
MLK students also joined hundreds of other high school students in the Construction and Utility Career Fair, sponsored by LESD,Lane Workforce Partnership, EWEB, City of Eugene, and Springfield, and area businesses.
Cody Elkins said talking to staff, fromLCC, about their Automotive Program, as he's interested in becoming a mechanic.
Brandon Downes took advantage of all the hands on activities and the opportunity to talk to many of the employers, LCC staff, and tables with information about apprenticeship programs and ways to get started in the construc tion field.
Gabe Gonzalez enjoyed all the hands on activities and especially had fun trying out the harness and climbing equipment.
Students were able to operate heavy equipment, climb with a harness, bend metal pipe, try welding activities, learn about masonry, drill into concrete, and completed a timed obstacle course involving construction skills. We had a great time! |
| Technology Program: The Technicalities | |
Technology students have now successfully completed the disassembly and re-assembly of at least one lab computer. Two students made extra effort and completed the disassembly/re-assembly process on two different types of desk top computer as well as a lap top machine. Students also participated in diagnosing a problem with a lap top computer for one of the DYS staff. We were able to find the fault, order new parts, and complete the repair. The little machine is now running like new! Students were surprised to learn how much money they would have made if they were doing this sort of repair out in the real world, showing once again how practical experience can excite interest and understanding.
 | | Andrew Mondragon |
One of the most recent highlights of our Computer Tech class has been tours of local computer vendors and Next Step Recycling Center. The tours are intended to broaden students understanding of the many opportunities for employment available in the information technology and computer technology fields. |
| Sudent of the Month; Heather Nelson |
 | | Heather Nelson |
Congratulations!! Heather Nelson for being awarded the MLK Education Center Student of the Month for December, 2010. Heather is a friendly, outgoing person who was incredibly motivated in all areas of her academics! Now that she has earned her GED, Heather is interested in attending a cosmetology program. Heather has a wonderful smile and is very good at helping to brighten up the day of those around her. We at MLK have enjoyed having her as a student. |
| Culinary Arts: Warming the Hearts of Many |
This month, the MLK Culinary Arts Program had a wonderful turn-out at its annual Holiday Meal. This was their 5th year of inviting the community to celebrate the holiday season over a free meal, prepared by the students, and to enjoy over $2000 in raffle prizes donated by local businesses and organizations.
A total of 24 students worked hard to transform the Carmichael Conference Room, at Serbu Youth Campus, into a winter wonderland! Students greeted and served patrons, prepared a festive feast of mashed potatoes, turkey, gravy, cranberry sauce, and pie.
As the event drew to a close, patrons trickled out of the building with smiles on their faces, happy to have been served by a great team of youth, who devoted their day to entertaining the community.
Special thanks to all the local businesses and organizations for their generous donations.
 | | Student Brendan Francisco showed off his musical talenst and serenaded patrons with his voice and guitar. |
".. my 89 year old mother and I were able to join in the lovely meal and raffle event prepared by the students and supported by the community! It was really fun to participate. We wanted to send a card to the students and advisors." -Barbara |
| Introducing Shellye Reynoso; Employment Specialist | |
We want you to get to know the staff at MLK Ed. Center better, so for the next several months, we will continue to highlight teachers, advisors, and assistants, along with some interesting facts about each of them.
Introducing Shellye Reynoso, Employment Specialist
 | | Shellye Reynoso |
Q: What is your favorite color?
A: Orange- and earth tones, I love the FALL!
Q: Where were you born?
A: I was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas (Go Razorbacks)
Q: If you could have lunch with any person living or dead who would that person be and why?
A: A woman from the 20's, 50's, and 70's. I would be interested to see their interest and surprise with today's society. I would also love to hear stories of their time.
Q: Who was a great influence or mentor to your while you were growing up?
A: My step dad, he tried on a daily basis to keep me on the straight and narrow. He was strict (with good reason) and always pushed me to be better in academics and to move out of our small town to bigger and better things. Thank you dad
Q: Why did you enter this field of work?
A: I was always drawn to the criminal justice field, I loved reading and learning about what it all entailed. My focus on juvenile justice started in college, where I began taking courses on this subject...This led me to my first career, where I worked at Hanna Boys Center in Sonoma, CA., for eight years.
Q: What is your favorite part about working with MLK?
A: My co-workers and the youth. I enjoying hearing and sharing experiences with both.
Q: What is something about you nobody would know
A: I wasa clock maker and some of the unique clocks I have made were bought by presidents and featured in magazines, when portraying the White House. |
| Horticulture Program: Hard at Work | |
Horticulture crews have been hard at work, despite the rain, sleet, snow, and heavy doses of mud! Over the last month our City Crew has been building a huge system of turnpikes (Raised Trail Beds) for Eugene's Ridgeline Trail System. Using hundreds of feet of treated posts, rebar, culverts, and massive amounts of gravel. The crew is creating a sustainable trail system which will hold up under heavy use and harsh weather! Great work City Crew!
 | | Anthony Maguire |
Our Forest Work Crew completed winter work on the Fall Creek National Senic Trail, over 13 miles! The entire trail was bucked (fallen trees cut and removed), brushed heavely, and hundreds of feet of drains repaired and cleared. Currently, the crew is working for the BLM, rocking the new trail we built and repairing water features. Next week, Greenhouse work for the Umpqua National Forest!
On the fly, our crews have been working on site in the Native Garden burying the lawn with leaves (thank you City of Springfield/Sani-Pac), adding more species, and building more trail. Additional native plants have been potted ,in anticipation of our largest native plant sale to date (Mother's Day 2011). This event will occur in partnership with The Native Plant Society of Oregon, and Nearby Nature. Experts will be on hand to help with questions! We hope to see you there! |
| Transitions | |
Congratulations to several MLK students who have earned their GED!
High Fives to Brandon Downes and Heather Nelson!
 | | Brandon Downes |
Brandon Downes is a friendly young man who is easy-going, coupled with a great personality. He has steadily worked since the start of the school year to improvemath skills. Because of this, he was recently able to pass his last test in Math and has now obtained his GED. Brandon's future plans include obtaining a job at a grocery store near his home and pursuing his interest in the Coast Guard.
 | | Jessica Coles |
Congratulations to Jessica Coles for being hired at Safeway! Jessica is a bright star in the Culinary Arts Program and is eager to continue working as an intern with the Cambell Center, while beginning her new job at Safeway! Nice job Jessica!
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| Save 20% |
Save 20% on your next catering order of $50 or more with the MLK Jr. Education Center Culinary Arts Program.
Print this coupon and present it in person to redeem value. Limit one per person. Offer not valid with other discounts or prior purchases. | | Offer Expires: October 25, 2010. |
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To place a catering order, call (541) 682-2423, or e-mail 
