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Margaret Hill, program chairman for next month’s Black Rose and Humanitarian of the Year Awards, points out, “It’s our 21st annual ceremony. We have been doing this a long time now, honoring more than 100 people who have done so much for our community.”

The September 10 event, presented by the San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation, will recognize recipients in three categories: the Black Rose; the Commitment to Community Service of the Year; and the Humanitarian of the Year. Hosts for the gala evening, for their sixth consecutive year, are Kathryn Ervin, California State University San Bernardino Theater Arts professor, and Inland Empire public relations leader Carl Dameron of Dameron Communications.

“It’s vitally important,” says Ervin, “for the rest of us to be reminded of the many good things people here are doing.”

Dameron adds, “I’m proud to be a part of providing our local heroes of all diversities with the recognition that is so often lacking, but always well deserved.”

The Friday evening ceremony will be in the Valencia Room of the National Orange Show, 689 South E Street in San Bernardino. “The doors open at 6 p.m. for a social hour,” notes Hill. “The awards will begin promptly at 7 p.m.. Tickets this year are $60 per person, with reserved tables for 10 at $600.” To order tickets or reserve a table, call Margaret Hill at (909) 991-6422.

Hill adds, “This is the chance for all of us to honor those virtually unrecognized individuals of the Inland Empire who have brought so much to our lives.”

To Ervin the Black Rose awards provide an opportunity to recognize local leaders, especially for youth. “The honors at the ceremony encourage young people to get involved, to help make our communities the best they can be.”

“The recipients have devoted their lives to helping others,” says Dameron, “and on September 10 it’s time to pay them back for all they have done. It’s time for the Black Rose Awards.”