Category Archives: SB Local Heroes 2016

ALAGIE JAMMEH: STANDUP | FIGHT BACK

ALAGIE came from a culture where homosexuals were considered the work of the devil and subject to jailing or the death penalty. As a student in the US Alagie posted 14 words in defense of gay rights. He suffered mightily as a result, but survived to become a fierce advocate for human rights.

Willie Poindexter, “Master Of Verbal Judo”

An eight-degree black belt in karate, Willie devoted his life to honor his mother, daughter and family. Until he recently retired, he worked at SB juvenile detention facilities, often with troubled, sometimes violent teens in ways described as, “the best there ever was.”

Gary Sangenito, “He Shows Up”

 

“People show they care when they show up,” according to SB Fire Chief Pat McElroy. “Gary shows up.” He provides a “steady-Eddie” bass guitar beat for dozens of bands around the Central Coast, many gratis or at reduced rates—all after he finishes a grueling day installing roofs.

Bruce and David Corwin, “The Organization, The Business And The Community”

The current Corwins, Bruce and David, are the third and fourth generations to operate movie theaters, which in Santa Barbara has occurred continuously since 1948. Bruce provides some of his fascinating family history and Bruce and David provide a ‘yin-and-yang’ perspective on balancing business with giving back to the community.

David Asbell, “How Do You Jump Off A Tiger?”

In the heart of downtown for more than 100 years, the Lobero Theatre has provided an important venue for the arts. Under David’s leadership, it has been modernized and it continues to offer a rich and often dazzling variety of music and dance entertainment

Barbara Ireland, “The Bright Light Is Always You”

A dear friend died from breast cancer at too early age. In her honor, Barbara created the Walk and Run for Breast Cancer, which has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for cancer research.

Lee Heller, “A Force Of Nature”

 

A former English professor moved to SB and dedicated her life, energy and resources to protect animals and our precious local environment and effectively promote social justice causes.

Mark Asman, “Extending Always The Hand Of Friendship”

As one of the first ‘out’ gay priests in the Episcopal Church, Mark explains his difficult journey, while others provide witness to the indelible mark he has made for social justice and equality in Santa Barbara.

DOUG MERSHON | “Mr. Doug, Mr. Doug”

Doug Mershon is an electrician by trade, who possesses more energy than produced at Grand Coulee Dam. ‘Mr. Doug-Mr. Doug’ uses his unique teaching talents to help Eastside SB kids learn and excel with difficult math concepts and to apply his construction skills for Habitat For Humanity.