Delano proclaims Community Action Month; honors longtime dance teacher Darlene Sigler

The Delano City Council used part of its May 5 meeting to present proclamations recognizing local service and community organizations.

Council declared May 2025 as Community Action Month and invited Jeremy Tobias, chief executive officer of the Community Action Partnership of Kern, to describe the agency’s work. Tobias told the council the nonprofit runs Head Start and Early Head Start programs in the county, operates a large food bank network and a 24/7 call center that connects residents to social services. He said the organization distributes more than 22 million pounds of food countywide and reported about 1,440,000 pounds distributed in Delano during 2024–25. "Early learning empowers families, supports working parents, and prepares future generations to contribute to their communities and the economy," Tobias said.

The council also presented a lengthy proclamation honoring Darlene Sigler for 45 years as owner and director of Precision Dance Center. Dozens of former students, parents and colleagues gave remarks about Sigler’s mentorship and the studio’s long history; speakers recalled recitals, international performances and multi‑generational alumni who now bring their children to class. Sigler described 2020 as a particularly difficult period and thanked the community for support: "I have to thank you. I really, really do," she said in an emotional response.

A representative identified as Steven from the congressman’s office also offered a certificate of recognition for the nonprofit’s local work. The council recessed briefly after the presentations and then proceeded to public comment and the consent agenda.