WILMINGTON, CA-Congratulations to Banning High School's Hospitality Academy for its oustanding showing at the recent 64th Annual State Leadership Conference in Fresno. Culinary Arts Teacher Virginia Marsoobian said three students won First Place Awards for Appetizers (5 different ones in Cinco de Mayo style), Wedding Cake and Art Display Cake (Flintstone Bedrock theme). One of the school's Bread entries also placed well. As a special treat, Marsoobian took her proud Culinary team, who competed in the event, to Seal Beach and a dinner at her home. The Academy, which has students from the 10th through 12 grades, not only trains in the Culinary Arts but builds self-confidence that enables some to receive college scholarships. Bravo to this fine program!

Pictured are Virginia Marsoobian, advisor Felicia Hernandez, and students Jucob Griffith, Lipsia Rosales (also shown with her award-winning cake creation,) Adolfo Fortanel and a relative of one of the students.

The competition held by the California Assn. FHA-HERO, includes culinary and business presentations.

Five Los Angeles Unified School District high schools took part in the competition: Banning, El Camino Real, Kennedy, Santee Educational Complex and Wilson.

FHA-HERO derives its name from its former title, California Assn. Future Homemakers of America-Home Economics Related Occupations.

Some students in the program at Banning High School have received scholarships, internships, and successful careers in culinary arts.

Did you know that you can help keep the successful pilot program going at Banning High? Contact Virginia Marsoobian to get the details on how you can donate funds or become a sponsor: vmarsoob@lausd.net