A former police chief turned county supervisor will be recognized for his years of service to the community during the Santa Maria Elks Rodeo Parade.

Joe Centeno was named grand marshal of the parade, which will travel down Broadway on May 31, with a theme of “65 Years of Friends, Family and Tradition.”

“Joe has done a lot for our community, many things in the background that many people don't know about,” said Keith Barks, president of Elks Recreation Inc.

“It's just one thing after another. He puts his community and such before himself, and we just thought it was a good thing to do,” Barks added. “He really doesn't expect a lot and that makes him really a special person. He doesn't care who gets recognition as long as the job gets done.”

Centeno served 34 years on the Santa Maria Police Department, including more than eight as chief. After he retired, he ran for Santa Maria City Council and served as mayor. He later sought a seat on the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors, and has represented the 5th District since 2002.

Centeno is a native of Santa Barbara County, and graduated from schools in Casmalia and Santa Maria.

While working and raising a family he attended night school, earning a master's degree from Golden Gate University, associate's degrees from Hancock College and a bachelor's degree from LaVerne College.

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For the 2007 rodeo, the Elks honored Centeno during the final rodeo performance. Other awards he has received include the Robert Grogan Award for Public Service and the National Police Officer of the Year for W-TIPS (We Turn in Pushers).

Centeno and his wife Sylvia have two grown children, Brandi, a graphic artist in Los Angeles; and Joseph Dean, a surgeon in Santa Maria.

The 65th Annual Santa Maria Elks Rodeo is May 30 through June 1. What normally would be opening night, Thursday, May 29, instead will be a Professional Bull Riders Inc. event.

Janene Scully can be reached at

739-2214 or janenescully@santamariatimes.com.

March 10, 2008