MVP Dad
Mike Rice
Profile: Nominated by a parent: "I nominate Mike Rice for Dad in the Spotlight for his many years of being an enthusiastic volunteer at Ellwood School. If I had to describe Mike with three words, those words would be cheerful, smart, and kind. And giving. (Rats, can't do it in three!)
When I was in college, I worked at Ellwood school and was delighted to see Mike's friendly face volunteering in his oldest daughter's first grade classroom every Friday. Now that I am a mom at Ellwood school, I am thrilled that Mike is still there with his youngest daughter! At our Fall Harvest carnival, there was Mike (with his wonderful wife, Lisa) leading the cakewalk the entire time. Yay, Mike! I wish all dads took the time to volunteer as you do."
Volunteer Involvement: I started volunteering in my oldest daughter's kindergarten class twelve years ago at Ellwood School. I have thoroughly enjoyed all my years "helping out" at Ellwood; the friendships I've built, and the students I've seen blossom over the years.
Profession & most challenging part of your business: My wife Lisa and I manage the Santa Cruz Market in Old Town Goleta.
In retail there is always a certain level of stress, having a positive attitude is key.
Education: DPHS class of 85, SBCC 2yrs, UCSB 3yrs,..... still learning every day.
Children: Three daughters! Thankfully my dog Tanner is a male.
Fun Q & A with our Spotlight Dad:Personal:What phrase or motto do you live by? It's very simple: Do to others as you would want them to do to you.
Inspiration: To make this world a better place for future generations!
If you could teach your kids one thing and have it impact them, what would it be? Respect for others.
How do you measure success? I know some people that have made a lot of money, but aren't happy. Are they successful? I measure success on one's happiness and the happiness of those around them.
Greatest Accomplishment: Raising a happy and healthy family.
Proudest Moment: The birth of my children of course, but I'm also proud when people compliment me for the way my daughters treat other people.
Biggest Challenge: Not letting the high stress world we live in get the best of us. We all need to stop and smell the roses once in awhile.
Wildest Dream: To travel into Outer Space.
Sport/Exercise Program: I love to watch my Baltimore Ravens play, even though this year they suck. I take my dog on a jog to the beach just about every day for exercise.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I have a passion for photography, especially wildlife photography.
Where did you grow up: Early childhood: Annapolis Maryland, moved to Goleta at age nine and haven't left.
How many siblings: I have four sisters.
First Job: I had a newspaper route on the same street I live on now.
Childhood Ambition: To play centerfield for the Baltimore Orioles.
Favorites:Favorite Soundtrack/song: Cliffs of Dover by Eric Johnson,
Little Wing by Stevie Ray Vaughn,
Europa by Carlos Santana
Favorite Movie: For recent movies I would say,
Into the Wild.
Favorite TV Show: Late Night with David Letterman
Retreat: Hiking, Biking, in the back country, or sunset walks on the Ellwood Mesa.
Last Book You Read: The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck.
Indulgence: Poker with the boys.
Your Perfect Day: Local: At dawn, ride my bike up to Little Pine Mt. Then back in time for a nice afternoon at the beach with my family. Followed by a backyard BarBQ with friends. Then a sunset walk on the Ellwood Mesa with my wife.
Exotic: Snorkeling below the Princeville Hotel in Kauai with my family, then just laying around the rest of the day in a tropical paradise.
Each month we feature a dad making a difference in our community. We want to acknowledge working dads and stay at home dads. Suggest a dad by emailing us at info@sbparent.com .Past profiled dad...
