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    Black Culture Foundation Presents Eight Black Rose Awards and Two Scholarships

    Photo caption: Black Rose Award winners. Left to right first row; Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren, Sam’s Club Assistant Manager Michael Beauregard, California State University San Bernardino President Tomás Morales, San Bernardino City Unified School District Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Dr. Marcus Funchess, American Career College Director of Education Tina Darling, City of Moreno Valley Park Commissioner James C. Baker II, Black Rose Awards Entertainment Chairperson Rev. Bronica Martindale, Black Culture Foundation Past President Ezekiel Adeleke, and Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo Partner Jack B. Clarke Jr. Back Row: Black Culture Foundation President Carl Dameron, GPL-Grandparents Love Founder Aristotle McDaniel, and Black Rose Awards Founder and Black Culture Foundation Secretary Jim King.

    Photo caption: Black Rose Award winners. Left to right first row; Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren, Sam’s Club Assistant Manager Michael Beauregard, California State University San Bernardino President Tomás Morales, San Bernardino City Unified School District Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Dr. Marcus Funchess, American Career College Director of Education Tina Darling, City of Moreno Valley Park Commissioner James C. Baker II, Black Rose Awards Entertainment Chairperson Rev. Bronica Martindale, Black Culture Foundation Past President Ezekiel Adeleke, and Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo Partner Jack B. Clarke Jr. Back Row: Black Culture Foundation President Carl Dameron, GPL-Grandparents Love Founder Aristotle McDaniel, and Black Rose Awards Founder and Black Culture Foundation Secretary Jim King.

     “It’s time for young and old, novice and experienced to join us to honor our legacy of excellence and to build our leaders for the future,” said President Carl M Dameron, imploring people to become members at sbbcfoundation.org/membership.

    Riverside, CA—The Black Culture Foundation, Inc. honored eight local heroes and awarded two scholarships at its annual Black Rose Awards Gala.

    The recipients of the Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award was given to two individuals: Dr. Marcus Funchess, who serves as the assistant superintendent of human resources for the San Bernardino City Unified School District, and Jack B. Clarke Jr., a community leader and partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo.

    “On behalf of CSUSB’s 20,000 students and 125,000 alumni, we are honored to receive the Founders Award from the Black Culture Foundation,” stated California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB) President Dr. Tomás D. Morales. “We are proud of our partnership with the Black Culture Foundation and the African American community in the Inland Empire in advocating for educational opportunities to the residents of the Inland Empire.”

    Black Rose Award winners include City of Moreno Valley Park Commissioner James C. Baker II, Sam’s Club Assistant Manager Michael Beauregard, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo Partner Jack B. Clarke Jr., American Career College Director of Education and New Hope Missionary Baptist Church Nursing and Health Ministry Chair Tina Darling, San Bernardino City Unified School District Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Dr. Marcus Funchess, GPL-Grandparents Love Founder Aristotle McDaniel, California State University San Bernardino President Tomás Morales, and Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren.

    Maya Johnson and Daniel Rivera Jr. received Dr. Margaret Hill Black Rose Young Adults Inspiration Awards including scholarships of $1,250 each.

    The masters of ceremonies for the evening were Cal State University San Bernardino theatre arts professor Kathryn Ervin and former Judicial Council of California legislative advocate Dia S. Poole.

    The masters of ceremonies for the evening were Dia Poole and Kathryn Ervin. Fonadation Presdent carl M. Dameron is the man in the middel. Photo byVan Howard

    The masters of ceremonies for the evening were Dia Poole and Kathryn Ervin. Fonadation Presdent Carl M. Dameron is the man in the middel. Photo by Van Howard

    Entertainment for the evening came from Unspeakable Praise youth praise dance group and the Original Mary Jane Girls leader lead singer Makeda Francisco.  San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) student JhuMaani Chess sang a stirring rendition of the United States National Anthem and SBVC student Cherish Jackson moved the audience with her rendition of The Black National Anthem.

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968, to foster a greater understanding of Black culture and heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate, and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities.

    Foundation President Carl M. Dameron said, “The nomination committee chose outstanding Inland Empire leaders to receive Black Rose Awards this year.  We are honored to recognize and publicly thank them for their longtime and ongoing service to the people of the Inland Empire.”

    A list of all previous Black Rose Award winners from 1990 is on the Foundation website at sbbcfoundation.org

    Entertainment for the evening came from the Original Mary Jane Girls leader lead singer Makeda Francisco.

    Entertainment for the evening came from the Original Mary Jane Girls leader lead singer Makeda Francisco. Photo by Van Howard

    Event sponsors included The Southern California Gas Company, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Dameron Communications, Charles Bibbs, Southern California Edison, U.S. Representative Pete Aguilar (D-33), California State Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-50), The Social Lites, the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, and California State University, San Bernardino.

    Certificates of achievement were presented to the Black Rose Awards winners from Representative Pete Aguilar, Representative Ken Calvert, California State Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-23), State Senator Richard Roth (D-31), State Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-32), Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-58), Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson (D-60), Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-45), Assemblymember Eloise Reyes, Assemblymember Greg Wallis (R-47), County of San Bernadino Second District Supervisor Jesse Armendarez, County of San Bernadino Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., and the Cities of Corona, Fontana, Highland, Rialto Riverside, and San Bernardino.

    The evening closed with the swearing of Carl M. Dameron as president of the Black Culture Foundation.  His theme for 2024 is “Its Time.”  Dameron proclaimed that “it’s time to bring back the San Bernardino Black History Parade. It’s time to bring back the Black Senior King and Queen. It’s time for an Inland Empire-wide Black events calendar, all online, in one place, free for all to share events and access.”

    Dameron concluded with “It’s time for young and old, novice and experienced to join us to honor our legacy of excellence and to build our leaders for the future.” He implored people to become members at sbbcfoundation.org/membership.

    Black Rose Award Winner Video Links. Click to see videos from the Black Rose Award winners  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19OjK4hFYE1_nHv7Z-9c6cNvvTfU92WLt?usp=sharing

    About the Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, Inc. a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.

    31st annual Black Rose Award Winners Video Links 2024

    Black Rose Award Winner Video Links

    Black Rose Awards Photo Slide Show 2024

    https://youtu.be/MsiASfhZbHE

    Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award Winner Dr Marcus Funchess

    https://youtu.be/497OtiK7EcQ

    Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award Winner Jack B Clarke, Jr.

    https://youtu.be/RDTT5Noj6Fk

    California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) received the Jim King Founders Award

    https://youtu.be/pe06kW8bD00

    Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren Black Rose Award Winner

    https://youtu.be/RPAga1WgfjE

    Black Rose Awards Honor Aristotle McDaniel

    https://youtu.be/quR3AniuZdM

    Black Rose Awards Honors Tina Darling

    https://youtu.be/Fbt_q4aWX3M

    The Black Rose Awards Honor James C. Baker II

    https://youtu.be/L_lsTJzfqYs

     

    Black Rose Awards Honor Aristotle McDaniel

    https://youtu.be/BoeyLBuZosM

    Black Rose Awards Honor Michael Beauregard

    https://youtu.be/r60GequHY90

    About the Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.

    Black Culture Foundation Announces Winners for Its 2024 Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award

    Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District is The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Co-Award winner.

    Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District is The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Co-Award winner.

     

    Jack B. Clark, Jr., partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo. he is The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Co-Award winner.

    Jack B. Clark, Jr., a partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, is The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Co-Award winner.

    The awards will be presented at the Black Rose Awards Gala on Friday, February 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Riverside Convention Center.

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. Feb. 7, 2024 — The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation announces that Jack B. Clarke, Jr., partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, and Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District, have won the 2024 Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award.

    Foundation President-elect Carl Dameron said, “We have chosen two outstanding Inland Empire people for the Humanitarian Award this year so that they can be recognized and publicly thanked for their long-time and ongoing service to the people of the Inland Empire.”

    Clarke handles litigation concerning education law, special education disputes, public agency litigation, and other substantial matters. He has successfully defended school districts and other education clients in student disciplinary matters, civil rights and Constitutional claims, and special education due process hearings.

    Clarke was the first African American to chair the board of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, and he served as chair of the Mayor’s Use-of-Force Review Panel in 1999 following the high-profile police shooting death of Tyisha Miller in Riverside, California.

    His community service contributions have been recognized by the Riverside County Bar Association, California Law Business magazine, the NAACP, the American Diabetes Association, and now the Black Culture Foundation.

    Funchess has served the Inland Empire (IE) as an elementary school teacher from 1998 to 2007, a vice principal from 2007 to 2010 and then principal from 2010 to July 2016 at the Thompson and Henry Elementary Schools, and assistant superintendent of human resources at the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) since August 2020. Funchess also served as Human Resources Director from 2016 to 2020.

    He received his Doctorate in Leadership for Educational Justice from the University of Redlands in 2014. Funchess collaboratively developed the Aspiring Administrator program to grow and develop SBCUSD leaders from within the District. He also helped develop the Golden Bell Award-winning Grow Our Own initiative to educate and hire the next generation of educators from within the community.

    The initiative encourages current SBCUSD students interested in careers in education to pursue their dreams with support from the District, even after leaving high school, and return to SBCUSD to share their knowledge and experience.

    The Black Rose Awards are Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are going FAST, get your tickets TODAY: https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/

    The Black Rose Awards are on Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available at: sbbcfoundation.org

    “Additional Black Rose Award winners include Acquanetta Warren, Mayor of Fontana; James C. Baker II, Park Commissioner for the City of Moreno Valley; Michael Beauregard, Assistant Manager at Sam’s Club; Tina Darling, Director of Education at American Career College, Ontario, and chair of the Nursing and Health Ministry at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church; and Aristotle McDaniel, founder of GPL-Grandparents Love,” said Foundation President, Ezekiel Adeleke.

    The 31st Annual San Bernardino Culture Foundation Black Rose Awards ceremony takes place on Friday, Feb. 23, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Riverside Convention Center.

    For tickets to the gala, visit the Black Culture Foundation’s website at:  https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/.

    To become a Black Rose Awards sponsor, go to https://blackculturefoundation.square.site/.

    To become a volunteer or board member, send an email to blackrose@sbbcfoundation.org.

    About the Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.” The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s major cultural event.

    Did You Get Your Ticket?

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. —The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation has announced its award winners for 2024, they are honoring two people for The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award.  “We have chosen Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District, and Jack B. Clarke, Jr., partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo,” said  Foundation President Ezekiel Adeleke.

    Foundation President-elect Carl M. Dameron added, “We are also honoring California State University, San Bernardino, with the Jim King Founders Award.

    Black Rose Award winners include Acquanetta Warren, Mayor of Fontana, James C. Baker II, Park Commissioner for the City of Moreno Valley; Michael Beauregard, Assistant Manager at Sam’s Club; Tina Darling, Assistant Director of the Vocational Nursing Program – Clinical at American Career College, Ontario, and Chair of the Nursing and Health Ministry at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church; and Aristotle McDaniel, founder of GPL-Grandparents Love.”

    Read more: Black Rose Winners Announced

    The Black Rose Awards are Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are going FAST, get your tickets TODAY: https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/

    The Black Rose Awards are Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are going FAST, get your tickets TODAY: https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/

    Learn about The Black Rose Awards on Inland Empire Alive

    Learn about The Black Rose Awards on Inland Empire Alive with  Carl M. Dameron:

    For tickets:  https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/

    To sponsor https://blackculturefoundation.square.site/

     

    Read morehttps://dameroncommunications.com/2024/01/23/black-rose-culture-foundation-announces-2024-winners/

     

    The Black Rose Awards are Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are going FAST, get your tickets TODAY: https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/

    The Black Rose Awards are Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are going FAST, get your tickets TODAY: https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/

    Black Culture Foundation Announces 2024 Winners

    Black Rose Award winner Jack B. Clark, Jr., partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo.

    The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award winner Jack B. Clarke, Jr., partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo.

     

    University Presdient Dr. Tomás D. Morales, will accept the Jim King Founders Black Rose Award for California State University, San Bernardino.

    University Presdient Dr. Tomás D. Morales, will accept the Jim King Founders Black Rose Award for California State University, San Bernardino.

     

    Black Rose Award winner Acquanetta Warren, Mayor of Fontana

    Black Rose Award winner Acquanetta Warren, Mayor of Fontana

     

    Black Rose Award winner Aristotle McDaniel, founder of GPL-Grandparents Love.

    Black Rose Award winner Aristotle McDaniel, founder of GPL-Grandparents Love.

     

    Black Rose Award winner Michael Beauregard, Assistant Manager at Sam’s Club.

    Black Rose Award winner Michael Beauregard, Assistant Manager at Sam’s Club.

     

     

    Black Rose Award winner James C. Baker II, Park Commissioner for the City of Moreno Valley.

    Black Rose Award winner James C. Baker II, Park Commissioner for the City of Moreno Valley.

     

    Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District is The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Co-Award winner.

    Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District is The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Co-Award winner.

     

    Black Rose Award Winner Tina Darling, Director of Education at American Career College, Ontario, and Chair of the Nursing and Health Ministry at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.

    Black Rose Award Winner Tina Darling, Director of Education at American Career College, Ontario, and Chair of the Nursing and Health Ministry at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.

    The 31st Annual San Bernardino Culture Foundation’s Black Rose Awards takes place on Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m. at the Riverside Convention Center.

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. —The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation has announced its award winners for 2024, they are honoring two people for The Dr. Juanita Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award.  “We have chosen Dr. Marcus Funchess, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources of the San Bernardino City Unified School District, and Jack B. Clarke, Jr., partner at the law firm of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo,” said  Foundation President Ezekiel Adeleke.

    Foundation President-elect Carl M. Dameron added, “We are also honoring California State University, San Bernardino, with the Jim King Founders Award.

    Black Rose Award winners include Acquanetta Warren, Mayor of Fontana, James C. Baker II, Park Commissioner for the City of Moreno Valley; Michael Beauregard, Assistant Manager at Sam’s Club; Tina Darling, Assistant Director of the Vocational Nursing Program – Clinical at American Career College, Ontario, and Chair of the Nursing and Health Ministry at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church; and Aristotle McDaniel, founder of GPL-Grandparents Love.”

    “On behalf of CSUSB’s 20,000 students and 125,000 alumni, we are honored to receive the Founders Award from the Black Culture Foundation,” stated University President Dr. Tomás D. Morales. “We are proud of our partnership with the Black Rose Foundation and the African American community in the Inland Empire in advocating for educational opportunities to the residents of the Inland Empire.”

    The 31st Annual San Bernardino Culture Foundation Black Rose Awards ceremony takes place on Friday, Feb. 23, starting at 5:30 p.m. at The Riverside Convention Center.

    To buy tickets to the gala, go to the Black Culture Foundation website at:  https://sbbcfoundation.org/events/2024-black-rose-awards/.

    To become a Black Rose Awards sponsor, go to https://blackculturefoundation.square.site/.

    To become a volunteer or board member, send an email to blackrose@sbbcfoundation.org.

    About the Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curricula. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.

    Looking for Black Heroes and Sheroes in the IE

    Photo Caption: 2023 Black Rose Award Winners - (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Black Rose Chair; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Foundation Treasurer Genevieve Echols.

    Photo Caption: 2023 Black Rose Award Winners – (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Black Rose Chair; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Foundation Treasurer Genevieve Echols. 

    “The Black Culture Foundation Celebrates the 31st Annual Black Rose Awards with our call for entries for the 2024 Black Rose Awards,” said President Ezekiel Adeleke

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – Some people have made a career helping others. And some have done even more than that.

    “If you know someone whose passion is to help and make the community better for others, the Black Culture Foundation wants to know about them. We seek nominations for The Black Rose, Humanitarian of the Year, and Community Service awards,” said Black Culture Foundation President Ezekiel Adeleke.

    “We are looking for someone whose volunteer efforts go over and above their job-related activities,” said Carl M. Dameron Co-chair of the 2024 Thirty-first Black Rose Awards. “These are unsung heroes, people who volunteer with multiple organizations or give all of their spare time to one. They never seek their glory but want to make their community a better place to live.”

    To nominate someone for a Black Rose Award, email Dameron at blackrose@sbbcfoundation.org, or call or text him at (909) 534-9500. Nominations are due by November 30, 2023.

    The awards program focuses on the Black community in the Inland Empire, Dameron says, but an award winner need not be a resident of the IE. Many community leaders in law enforcement, education, and other public venues have been recognized and received an award in honor of the work they’ve done that benefits the Inland Empire.

    To become a volunteer or board member, call or text Dameron at (909) 534-9500 or email him at blackrose@sbbcfoundation.org, Nominations are due by November 30, 2023.

    The 31st Black Rose Awards ceremony takes place on Saturday, February 3, at Rhe Riverside Convention Center.

    About the Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.

    Carl M. Dameron Elected Black Culture Foundation President

     

    “Dameron Communications President and longtime community trailblazer Carl M. Dameron has been elected President of the Black Culture Foundation,” said outgoing President Ezekiel Adeleke.

    “Dameron Communications founder, creative director, and longtime community trailblazer Carl M. Dameron has been elected President of the Black Culture Foundation,” said outgoing President Ezekiel Adeleke.

     

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— The Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of dedicated community leaders, will celebrate its 31st Black Rose Awards with a new President.

    Dameron Communications founder creative director and longtime community trailblazer Carl M. Dameron elected President of the Black Culture Foundation, effective on February 3, 2024,” said outgoing President Ezekiel Adeleke. Dameron is also co-chair of the 31st Black Rose Awards.

    “I am honored to be chosen the leader of The Black Culture Foundation and co-chair of the 31st Black Rose Awards,” said Dameron. “I have enjoyed providing public relations services for The Black Rose Awards since 1994.  I also served as the event master of ceremonies for several years.  Now I have the honor of serving the Foundation as president.”

    Dameron is recruiting new members and board members for the Foundation to work on its signature event and expand the Foundation’s reach. “We need people to aid in the efforts to recognize Black culture and Black leaders in the Inland Empire,” said Dameron. “We need accountants, graphic designers, office workers, and more.”

    Photo Caption: (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Foundation co-founder; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Genevieve Echols.

    Photo Caption: 2023 Black Rose Award Winners – (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Foundation co-founder; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Genevieve Echols.

    To become a volunteer or board member, call or text Dameron at (909) 534-9500 or email  blackrose@sbbcfoundation.org. Nominations are due by October 31, 2023.

    The 31st Black Rose Awards ceremony takes place on Saturday, February 3, at a location to be announced. 

    About The Black Culture Foundation

    The Black Culture Foundation is a non-profit organization run solely by volunteers. For over 40 years it has been giving scholarships to community youth to help with their college expenses. This program has helped many students achieve their life goals and we are glad to be a part of it. The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation is culturally diverse and committed to the development and understanding of Black culture. As part of that development and understanding, the Foundation strives to provide meaningful socio-economic and educational programs for the benefit of the community.

    The Black Rose Awards Gala is the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.

    About Carl M. Dameron

    Carl M Dameron has spent more than 20 years as a board member and PR Chair for The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps. For more than 10 years he has served as a board member of the Greater Riverside Chamber of Commerce, the San Bernardino Police African American Advisory Committee, and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Information Exchange.

    Dameron is a founding board member and president of The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce, as well as a founding member of The Inland Empire African American Concerned Churches.

    In 1994 Dameron created and produced Inland Empire Minority Job Fairs that have helped thousands of diverse people get jobs and start careers from 1994 to 2000. He launched Healthy Families, the free and low-cost children’s insurance program in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, exceeding the organization’s goals and objectives in record time.

    Additional volunteer contributions include:
    • Member and former Vice President of The Westside Action Group,
    • Vice Chair of the San Bernardino Community College District Affirmative Action Committee,
    • Secretary and Public Relations Chair for the San Bernardino NAACP
    • Founding Steering Committee member and Public Relations Chair for the African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County

    Dameron’s awards include:
    • Boy Scouts Whitney M. Young Award for Community Service
    • Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce Madam C. J. Walker Media/Promotion Award
    • The Unforgettables Community Service Award
    • Black Culture Foundation Community Service Award
    • League of Women Voters Citizens of Achievement Award
    • The Blood Bank of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties Corporate Support Award
    • The Urban League of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties Chairman’s Award
    • Salvation Army Certificate of Appreciation for Public Relations Contributions
    • San Bernardino County Office of Small Business Outstanding Small Business Advocate Award
    • California State San Bernardino Entrepreneur of The Year Finalist

     

    Black Community Foundation Honors Exemplary Community Service Providers at 30thAnnual Gala

     

    Photo Caption: (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Foundation co-founder; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Genevieve Echols.

    Photo Caption: (From left) Accepted for Linda D. Wright; Arlington Rodgers Jr., President of the Black Culture Foundation; Rose Mayes, Humanitarian of the Year honoree; Gloria Macias Harrison, Black Rose awardee; Jim King, Foundation co-founder; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson, Black Rose awardee; Accepting for San Bernardino Community Hospital Dr. Ruby Skinner, Medical Director, and Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Genevieve Echols.

      

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. The 30th annual Black Rose Awards Gala held on Saturday, February 4, at Cal State San Bernardino’s Santos Manuel Student Union North Hall drew more than 250 attendees to recognize the 2023 recipients.

    The Black Culture Foundation sponsors the annual event and its mission is “to bridge the cultural differences through nurturing, educating and encouraging the building of lasting, respectable communities.”

    Robert Nava, Cal State’s Vice President for Advancement and Executive Director for the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation, welcomed the guests and honorees to the celebration.

    Pastor Raymond W. Turner Sr., D.Min., of Temple Missionary Baptist Church gave the Invocation, followed by the presentation of the American and California colors and the Pledge of Allegiance led by San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran and the City of San Bernardino Police Department Honor Guard.

    JhuMaani Chess then sang a stirring National Anthem. Makeda Fransico then led the attendees in the singing of the Black National Anthem. With opening agenda items done, honorees and guests enjoyed an Italian-themed dinner.

    World-famous Black artist Charles A. Bibbs donated limited edition prints of his work to the Black Rose awardees, along with his signed original work to Foundation co-founder Jim King.

     “This year’s Award Gala is held in honor of Rosa Parks’ birthday,” said Black Rose Committee Co-Chair Jim King.

    The Foundation paid tribute posthumously to four stalwarts of community contributions that had passed away since the last in-person Gala before the pandemic: Dr. Margaret Hill and Senior Black Rose Kings Don Griggs, Jimmy Jews, and Jess Nichols.

    Black Rose Committee members Erika Johnson and Terrance Stone then presented the newly renamed Dr. Margaret Hill Black Rose Young Adult Inspiration Awards and scholarships to Liyah Belvins, a student at California Baptist University majoring in psychology, and Prince Ogidikpe, a recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree from Cal State San Bernardino, now working with Assemblymember Eloise Reyes.

    “The Black Cultural Foundation prides itself on having presented more than 125 scholarships to students over the years,” said Black Rose Committee Co-Chair Kristine Scott.

    The Foundation recognized its 2023 Black Rose Awards honorees: Gloria Macias Harrison, co-founder of the El Chicano newspaper and Board of Trustees member for the San Bernardino Valley Community College District; Deborah Robertson, Mayor of the City of Rialto with 22 years of service to the City of Rialto; and Linda D. Wright, veteran nonprofit organization leader.

    Black Culture Foundation co-founder and past president Jim King then presented the Jim King Black Rose Corporate Award to Dignity Health Community Hospital of San Bernardino. Roz Nolan, the hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer, and Dr. Ruby Skinner, Chief Medical Officer, accepted the award.

    Christie “Mirraje” Malone treated the audience to another musical interlude, singing an original composition that had the crowd moving with her rhythms.

    Mirraje’s experience singing with the likes of Stevie Wonder and Salt and Pepper shone brightly as she brought people to their feet in appreciation.

    Rose Mayes received the 2023 Juanita H. Scott Humanitarian of the Year award. Mayes is the  Executive Director of the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County and her passion and commitment to promoting fair opportunities for all, regardless of race, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability have born noteworthy results.

    Mayes’s contributions include being co-founder of the Eleanor Jean Grier Leadership Academy, co-founder and past president of the Riverside Black  Historical Society, and co-founder and co-chair of The Group, a grassroots public policy advocacy forum addressing community issues affecting Riverside’s people.

    Black Culture Foundation President Arlington Rodgers Jr. delivered the epilogue to the event, noting the Foundation’s achievements and continuing aspirations, a fitting summary, and a conclusion to an entertaining and successful event.

    To join or for more information go to: https://sbbcfoundation.org

    About the Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps that exist across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.

    The History of the Black Rose Awards

    Honoring some of the unsung heroes who have worked diligently to improve the lives of others throughout the Inland Empire, The Black Cultural Foundation awarded the 2011 Black Rose Award to the following award community advocates: (back row left to right) Juanita Dawson, James Butts, Jimmie Brown, Herb English Jr., John Futch, Mark Campbell, Vicki Lee, Carl Dameron, Timothy Evans from The Unforgettables Foundation, Dr. Queen Hamilton, (left to right front row) Geraldine Reaves, Jennifer Vaughn-Blakely and Dr. Harold Cebrun. Photo by Chris Sloan.

    theBlack Rose Awards honors of the unsung heroes who have worked diligently to improve the lives of others throughout the Inland Empire, in 2011 The Black Cultural Foundation awarded Black Rose Awards to the following award community advocates: (back row left to right) Juanita Dawson, James Butts, Jimmie Brown, Herb English Jr., John Futch, Mark Campbell, Vicki Lee, Carl Dameron, Timothy Evans from The Unforgettables Foundation, Dr. Queen Hamilton, (left to right front row) Geraldine Reaves, Jennifer Vaughn-Blakely and Dr. Harold Cebrun. Photo by Chris Sloan.

    San Bernardino, Calif.   In 1926 Carter G. Woodson founded the first Black History Week, selecting the second week of February to commemorate the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, whose birthdays were the 12th and 14th, respectively. In the 1940s, efforts began to expand the week to a month, with West Virginia Blacks inaugurating the change.

    Black History Month

    Known then as Negro History Month, the expanded commemoration began to spread and by the mid-1960s had taken root in Chicago, where cultural activist Frederick H. Hammaurabi, who founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, made the change. Later in that decade, young Black college students all over the country (starting with Kent State in Ohio in February of 1969), who were becoming more politically conscious and active, began changing the name to Black History Month.

    In 1974 then-President Gerald Ford met with civil rights leaders Vernon Jordan, Bayard Rustin, Dorothy Height, and Jesse Jackson and two years later made the celebration of Black History Month official. As he said at the time, “…we can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

    As the Association for the Study of African American Life and History notes on its website about the adoption of Black History Month, “Since the mid-1970s, every American president, Democrat, and Republican, has issued proclamations endorsing the Association’s annual theme.”

    Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of African-American culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps that exist across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event. The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation’s 30th Black Rose Award Winners will be recognized at the annual banquet on Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the California State University, San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union 5500 University Parkway.

    Individual tickets are $75 each. For more information or to purchase tickets go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/30th-black-rose-awards-banquet-tickets-491089169927, or contact the Co-Chairs: Kristine Scott at (909) 809-0317 or kscott@socalgas.com or Jim King at (760) 239-8200 or jimking5000@yahoo.com.

    Arlington Rodgers, President of the Foundation, said, “We are enthusiastically looking forward to this year’s Black History Month activities as we extend the hand of friendship and understanding to all ethnic groups throughout the Inland Empire.”

    The Black Rose Awardees for 2023 are: Dr. Juanita H. Scott Humanitarian of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year to Rose Mayes, Executive Director Fair Housing Council of Riverside County; Black Rose Recipients are:  Linda Wright, Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce; Gloria Macias Harrison, President Emeritus, Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees; Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto, Founder of The Women’s Conference; and the Jim King’s Black Rose Corporate Founder’s Award from Dignity Health—Community Hospital of San Bernardino: Administrators June Collison, President, Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer and Staff Dr. Ruby Skinner.

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