Youth Athletic League family members gather for a last picture with former Director Deputy Ben Sahile during the talent show on July 26. Sahile is leaving the program to accept a promotion. Bulletin photos by Chris Frost COMPTON—The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Compton Station Youth Activities League wrapped up an exciting summer with a talent show for families, fans, and kids of all ages on Thursday, July 23.

Attendees enjoyed a free lunch, along with music, dance, athletics and comedy performances.

Master of ceremonies Jose Garcia kept the audience informed about all the performers.

“I introduced everyone, and gave the people background information about what school they attend,” he said. “Miss Anna helped me a lot with all the information.”

Garcia said he was nervous at first, but settled down quickly and left everyone laughing.

“They said my face turned red when I got on stage,” he said. “Once I got comfortable I did my bootie dance, and everybody started laughing when I shook my butt.”

YAL dancers wowed the crowd with a hip-hop routine during the recent talent show. Dance Family Director Anna Bernice said the talent show was a tremendous success.

“There were two awesome boxing matches,” she said. “Two of our kids also dedicated a Bruno Mars song to former YAL Director Deputy Ben Sahile.”

The dance family drew a big response from the crowd with a performance to the music of Usher.

“Seven kids participated and performed an original dance,” she said. “The last dance we did featured two boys, and I danced with an original member of the dance family.”

Dancer Desiree Chavez said this performance is another stop on her way to becoming a professional dancer.

“We did a hip-hop dance for this show,” she said. “It required a lot of practice, but we all love performing, so it does not feel like work to us.”

Chavez said she appreciated having her mother and father in the audience.

“They encourage me to follow my dream,” she said. “They are my biggest fans.”

Chavez said the best part of the show was the comedic talents of Garcia .

“He did the booty dance, and that was funny,” she said. “He had everybody laughing.”

YAL Staffer Angelica Garcia made sure everyone enjoyed a lavish meal.

“I cooked fried chicken, rice, macaroni and cheese, cake and salad,” she said. “I started around 8 o’clock this morning and had four people helping me.”

Garcia said the dance routines are always her favorite part of any show.

“Their work ethic and precision during their performance impresses me,” she said. “I enjoy coming here every day and being part of this great organization.”

With fall around the corner the homework program is already in development.

“I have five students who need help in math,” she said. “We will work together individually, and I will follow up so everyone gets good grades.”

The YAL boxers showcased their skills and continue attracting new participants.

“We started with only two kids,” coach Andrew Barbosa said. “Everybody has a great work ethic, and I am impressed by their improvement. The program has only been operating for six months, and they are way ahead of schedule.”

After the show, it was back to business as usual at the YAL.

“I hang out with my friends and have a good time whenever we come here,” Chavez said. “This has been a great summer.”

Sahile said the show demonstrated their tremendous talents.

“The kids worked hard and did a fantastic job,” he said. “I am very proud of them and hope they succeed in all their future endeavors.”

The Compton YAL program at 700 N. Alameda St. operates between the hours of 3 and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday during the school year. For more information contact Munoz at 310-668-4203, or call Compton Station at 310-605-6500.