Growing up in a family of Arroyo Grande Ranchers, attending the annual Santa Maria Elks Rodeo was one of his passions! As an adult, Phil's strong commitment to his duties was reflected in his dedication to his family, his military service, and his years as an engineer with the San Diego City Fire Department. After retiring in 2002, Phil returned to Nipomo and shortly after, became an instructor at Allan Hancock College, and a mentor for future firefighters who benefitted from his many years of experience Phil joined the Santa Maria Elks Lodge 1538 and quickly became active in the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo. He was content volunteering to work with the animals and run the chutes. But in 2012 when the Elks Recreation Inc. President position became available, Phil accepted the challenge and was dedicated to bringing the Rodeo back to its former greatness. Under his guidance, the Queen contest retumed and to this day has allowed Elks Recreation, Inc., to distribute $18+ million dollars for youth recreation in our community. His greatest accomplishment is that the Elks Rodeo has achieved national recognition which we continue to enjoy today. Phil took pride in developing a first-class team of volunteers which made him so very proud.
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