2025 Umbrella Awards
14th Annual Umbrella Awards and Live Auction
May 17th 2025 5:00-9:00 pm
Congratulations 2025 Umbrella Award Recipients
Baja Tires
Baja Tires has been the go-to place in Yucaipa when you need to service your car. They are the best when it comes to tires. Oscar and his friendly family will help you with a smile. They are always friendly, professional, and can get things done in a timely manner all while staying on budget. Once you bring your car to Baja tires, you will never go back to your old service shop again. They truly are the best around.
George’s Market
George’s Market has been a gem in the city of Calimesa for over 50 years. If you are looking for fun, great food and a festive environment, then George’s market should be the first stop on your list. George Troelenberg opened his small market on April 1, 1970 and has been growing and making families happy ever since. George learned his trade in Germany as a sausage maker and meat cutter. He left Hamburg, Germany, in 1956 at the age of 20 to live and work in Canada. After spending five years in Canada, he moved to Los Angeles before coming to the inland Empire.
Folks come from all around for the genuine German deli experience including the best traditional German food and lively entertainment. On Saturday afternoons you will find a crowd of real Germans mixed with those who just want to be, at least for the day. It’s easy to become submersed in the festive German spirit of hospitality and state of mind, the band, the beers, the brats the camaraderie and the friendships have a way to transport customers to another place and time. Georges is a phenomenal piece of history I our great city and one that will continue to stand the test of time.
Sullivan Party Rentals
The Sullivans Greg and Jenette moved to Yucaipa in 2018 and fell in love with the town and decided to plant roots. They started their new business venture Sullivan party Rentals when they noticed a lack in quality party rentals in the area. Their helpfulness and attention to detail along with their constant professionalism helped expand their business and soon they had so much business and inventory that they moved locations in order to have enough space for their booming business. They quickly became the premier party rental service in Yucaipa and surrounding cities and were even awarded Yucaipa Business of the Year 2022. They’re not all business though, they are part of our community and step up when needed. They are great folks providing quality service with a smile.
Wildwood Canyon Villa Assisted Living and Memory Care
Wildwood Canyon Villa is a cherished member of our community. They have a great responsibility to take care of our elderly population, and they do this with kindness and compassion. They’re not just another assisted living and memory care facility they are also a lot of fun. More than just arts and crafts they host activities such as classic car shows on Father’s Day, seasonal and holiday activities such as spring fling family fun day Halloween trunk or treat. They open these fun activities to the local community and children with the elderly residents making for smiles all around. They are very welcoming, and their residents are some of the happiest around.
Women’s Council of Realtors- East Valley
The women’s Council of Realtors East Valley is a large group of successful, charity-minded professionals who come together for the better good of their communities. For years they selflessly donate countless volunteer hours and thousands of dollars to local charities that are close to their hearts, Smiles 4 Seniors being one of them. They are a great example of what a group of compassionate and successful bad ass businesswomen can do when they come together.
GOOD SAMARITAN
Carter Sliney
It is with immense pleasure that I nominate Carter, a remarkable 13-year-old, for recognition of his exceptional community service. Carter embodies a spirit of giving that far exceeds his years. His dedication to our community is truly inspiring.
Carter volunteers regularly at Yucaipa Animal Placement Society (YAPS), where he enthusiastically assists with essential tasks such as cleaning kennels and laundering dog towels, directly contributing to the well-being of animals awaiting their forever homes. Even dressing up as Yappy for community events.
Beyond his commitment to YAPS, Carter also demonstrates heartfelt compassion for our senior citizens. He thoughtfully creates homemade cards for residents at our local senior centers, bringing joy and connection to those who may feel isolated.
Carter’s consistent and selfless actions demonstrate a deep understanding of community needs and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. His initiative, kindness, and dedication make him an exemplary young citizen, and I wholeheartedly recommend him for recognition. His efforts are truly making a difference in Yucaipa.
Doug and Lucia Hudec for recognition of their extraordinary and multifaceted community service. Their combined dedication weaves a vibrant thread of care and preparedness throughout Yucaipa.
Doug’s consistent presence at Wildwood Canyon Villa Assisted Living, spearheading their monthly bingo night, brings joy and connection to the residents, fostering a sense of community and engagement. Simultaneously, Lucia’s innovative “Painting Brunch” offers a creative outlet and a touch of artistic inspiration, brightening the lives of the seniors she guides.
Beyond their enriching activities at Wildwood Canyon Villa, Doug and Lucia’s involvement with C.E.R.T. is truly commendable. Lucia’s leadership in bringing C.E.R.T. training to the residents has empowered them with vital safety knowledge and preparedness. Her passion for safety extends beyond Wildwood Canyon Villa, demonstrably influencing our wider community and school district.
Together, Doug and Lucia exemplify the spirit of selfless service, dedicating their time, talents, and passion to enhance the lives of our seniors and bolster community resilience. Their combined efforts are a testament to their exceptional character and make them truly deserving of recognition.
Joan Johnson
Joan Johnson is 93 years old and full of life. She said she has slowed down a bit these days, but you’d never know it. She and her dog walk a few miles every morning and she stays healthy and in shape.
Joan used to be the secretary and bookkeeper for Yucaipa High School in 1976 and also worked with the athletic Director and activity directors. She raised her family and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren. Although she’s lived in many states she loves to call Yucaipa Home.
For the past few years Joan has been donating beautiful handmade crochet blankets that she makes and then to Smiles for Seniors which are then donated to seniors in nursing homes or if someone needs one. Joan also makes smaller crochet blankets for children and donates them through the Church of Christ. She literally gives the gift of love and warmth. Joan likes to stay busy by creating and sharing. You can truly feel all the love she puts into each of the beautiful blankets she crafts and donates to those who need a bit of warmth in their lives.
Letty Flores
Letty is a true treasure in our community. Her heart is pure gold. She is always the first to lend a hand to anyone who may need it whether she knows them or not. Hers is a true calling of goodwill and selflessness. Even though she has been through some trying times, her spirit is unbreakable. She uses her time to give back to so many organizations, clubs and people in need. She is a member of Yucaipa Woman’s Club and Calimesa Lions Club who do so much for the community. She is also a member of valley mesa garden club, red hats society, participates in Christmas in July for kids Ronald McDonald foundation, is on the American Cancer society team every year, along with a yearly coat drive. On top of all of that her patriotic roots run deep. She supports many Veterans organizations and raises money for wounded warriors every year. She is a member of American Legion, member of American Vets in Bullhead City AZ, member of Blue Star Moms Active Military Moms and often makes care packages for military overseas members. She even made stockings for Smiles for Seniors and is one of their newest board members.
Michael Gross
Michael Gross is one of those quiet, in the background kind of guys who has been serving our community for about 60 years. He was born at Loma Linda sanitarian and has lived in Yucaipa his entire life. His family-owned Gross TV in the 1950s. Mike became involved in 1977 ran until 1996 when it closed. They sold records, and CD’s on California Street where the shoe shop is now. Michael at an early age learned to fix and repair things. His father gave him a PA when he was 14 years old and hasn’t stopped perfecting his craft. He is a current volunteer for the Knights of Columbus, the city of Yucaipa Christmas Parade and Veterans and Memorial Day. For the past 60 years, he has been the official sound guy for Memorial Day. He started back when they did it on California Street at the American legion and does it all for free for the community. He married Laura otherwise known as “dee” and the couple had three children who still live locally, Penelope, Christopher, Emily when asked about his hobbies he replied, repairing things, which he has done all his life. Recently he was called to repair the projector at Yucaipa valley historical society he did it of course free of charge.
Michele Beckman
Michele is amazing, she can do it all. She is not only a board member of the Yucaipa Lions Club but also may actually be Wonder Woman. Recently her and the Lions Club held its first kids fishing derby with great success thanks to her meticulous planning. Her attention to detail is unmatched and her dedication and commitment to the charities she is affiliated with are very lucky to have such a tremendously helpful, loyal and steadfast member and team player. Always willing to help, she is also involved in many other organizations such as, board member for Inland Empire School Nurse Organization and she has also served as past president. Michele is currently President of The Reserve at Crafton Hills Homeowner’s Association and on the social committee. And in her spare time she is learning to quilt!
NON-PROFIT
Banning Woman’s Club
The Banning Woman’s Club has a long history of serving the community that dates back all the way to 1904 when it was known as the Saturday Afternoon Club. In 1930 the name was changed to the Banning Woman’s Club where it continues to host numerous events and organizations. The building was even used as a home for the first American Red Cross chapter in the Pass area, and for provided assistance to USO members during World War II. The group’s activities now include health and welfare programs and supporting their annual scholarship awards. The club’s involvement in the community has created and championed city investments such as the Banning Library. The Banning Woman’s Club continues to support education, youth groups and other community programs through their many fundraising activities including their wildly popular fashion show and Spring Fling.
Kandie Cansler-
Kandie is an animal rehabber who donates thousands of hours. She was born at Redlands Community Hospital and raised in Yucaipa, as was her father Barnett. Her grandfather was Yucaipa Justice of Peace, G.O. Barnett from 1935 to 1953. Kandi moved to Oak Glen with her husband Jim in 1981. She loves Yucaipa’s down-home kind of place, tight knit community she said, surrounded by lizards and snakes and nature as she developed a love of animals. Kandie has been a licensed wildlife animal rehabber with the state and federal since 1982. Over the years she has nursed and rescued thousands of animals. Last year alone she rehabbed 279 owls and hawks. ” there’s very few who do what I do, and it is getting harder and harder for the state to approve more people. If they didn’t, I cannot imagine…. It’s a matter of preservation of the wildlife that we love. I wouldn’t still be doing it if it weren’t for my team, they deserve as much credit as I do, Marsha Sandler, Jenna Beck, Leslie Triplet and Chris and Belinda Roberts.” In addition to animal rehabbing, Kandie serves on the trails and open space committee for 10 years and helps with hikes. She is also on the Yucaipa Valley historical society board of directors and Wildwood State Park preservation society. The countless animals she’s rehabbed over the years can never say thank you.. but we can. Thank you Kandi for all you do.
Redlands Footlighters Theater
Redlands Footlighters Theater is a true treasure in our community. Since 1945, the Redlands Foot lighter Theatre has provided quality theatrical performances from Edgar Alen Poe to Annie. It’s fun for the whole family. The Redlands Footlighters offers unique opportunities for actors, directors and stage crews to display their creativity/talents in a live theater atmosphere. Tickets and Season packages are extraordinarily reasonable and attending or volunteering is truly a joyful experience that everyone should try at least once. I would like to commend the non-profit for serving the community all of these years and for making the arts accessible to everyone and for keeping the magic of theater alive!
Right Fit Rescue
Right Fit Rescue was founded in the spring of 2022 with a mission to help animals in need, advocate for their well-being, and educate the community about animal overpopulation.
Since their founding, they’ve helped over 250 dogs—many saved from shelters, others rescued from overpopulated situations. they’ve also responded to three significant overpopulation cases, including two where more than 30 dogs were living and breeding on the property. In each case, they stepped in to stop the cycle by spaying and neutering every animal and placing as many as possible into loving homes.
In 2024, they expanded their efforts to include cats, launching a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program. In just one year, they’ve helped over 120 cats—100 of whom have already found loving homes.
Every animal they rescue is sterilized. In 2024 alone, we sterilized over 90 cats and 55 dogs. Beyond direct rescue efforts, they connect community members with resources for low-cost spay and neuter services and actively work to address the root causes of animal overpopulation.
Toys for Yucaipa
Yucaipa resident Lenore Will and her daughter Brenda Martinez have been the driving force for the annual Toys for Yucaipa holiday toy drive since she began it in her house in the 1980s. She enlisted the help of her daughter Brenda, and the duo worked tirelessly to ensure no child in Yucaipa goes without toys at Christmas time. Yucaipa Valley Fire and Rescue Association, along with the help of Lenore and Brenda Martinez told the annual Christmas event. It’s a monumental feat that takes hundreds of hours to sort through paperwork, then organize, wrap and ensure gifts are given to those in need. “We call her Lenore the godmother” said fire captain Travis Paye, whose crafting hills fire station hosts the drive. Brenda is golden, according to firefighters. She recently spearheaded an online application effort that simplified the process. Our community is one that cares about all of his residences! Lenora and Brenda are generous and represent the very best of Yucaipa.
Yucaipa-Calimesa Family Promise
Yucaipa family Promise is more than just an organization, they are architects of stability, crafting pathways out of homelessness for families with children. Their contribution transcends mere assistance; it’s about restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and reigniting futures.
Yucaipa-Calimesa Family Promise doesn’t just offer temporary shelter; they provide a holistic network of support, encompassing case management, resource navigation, and empowerment programs. They rally our community, engaging volunteers and faith-based organizations to create a safety net of compassion and practical help.
Witnessing their impact is to see hope take tangible form – children regaining a sense of normalcy, parents finding the strength to rebuild, and families rediscovering the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Their tireless dedication and innovative approach make them an invaluable cornerstone of our community, deserving of profound recognition for the transformative work they do, one family at a time. They are not just providing aid; they are planting seeds of resilience and fostering a stronger, more compassionate Yucaipa-Calimesa.
Yucaipa Calimesa Veterans Committee
YCVC started over 50 years ago by the Yucaipa American Legion who held service for our veterans-on-Veterans Day at their post. Since then and for the past 20+ years the committee has been run by a handful of community members dedicated to showing our appreciation to our service members and their sacrifices which they and their families have endured.
Each year the committee meticulously plans for and implements both the Memorial Day Ceremony held in May at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Calimesa, and the Veterans Day Ceremony in November at the Yucaipa Community Park. Both ceremonies are a poignant reminder of the sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform. The committee has recently been granted non-profit status and with that, is looking forward to doing much more for the active and non-active military in our community.
PUBLIC SERVICE
Banning United Methodist Church
Since 1887 the mission of the banning United Methodist Church is to serve and share the Love of God by developing personal faith through Jesus Christ and by promoting the unity of believers; membership in His family; and, Christian service through acts of justice, mercy and loving obedience in the church and in the community. The church supports many local charities and mission projects, as well as nurturing and care of our church family with prayer groups and Bible studies. The Banning United methodist church has been a labor of love for one hundred and thirty-eight years. Isaac Newton was purported to say that. “I stand on the shoulders of giants.” So, my vision for this church is to continue the legacy of sharing the love of Jesus Christ and developing the personal faith that my predecessors initiated. And to continue to make a difference in the community by performing acts of compassion, mercy, justice, and Christian service says Pastor Doug Purcel
Deacon Peter Bond
Peter Bond married the love of his life, Cathy in 1978. They have a daughter Lisa and two very loved grandkids, Max and Noelle.
“My wife Cathy and I moved to Yucaipa in 1978 when I was offered a teaching position at the former Yucaipa Elementary School,” said Bond.
He taught fourth grade for one year and then taught fifth grade for 29 years. He had over 900 students over the span of three decades and was beloved, to say the least.
“That was always my plan,” he said about teaching for 30 years. Peter’s highlights were going up to science camp and outdoor education.
He also enjoyed teaching woodworking – making wooden muskets and other things.
In 1994, he joined the church in 1994 became a catholic in 1995!
He was ordained as a Deacon in 2007 and has performed many baptisms, marriages and funerals. Every Tuesday, he serves the community by giving communion to seniors who cannot attend mass.
Deacon Bond loves to give back to the community – especially the seniors!
“To be a deacon means to serve. My ministerial role is scripturally defined. My marching orders are Mt. 25:35-45. It has been an honor since my ordination in 2007, to serve the community, not just my parishioners, with particular emphasis on meeting the needs of seniors and homebound.
And now that I am a senior myself, and a caregiver, I realize the value of what I have done over the years.”
In addition to serving as a deacon, he donates his time at Yucaipa’s Memorial Day and Veterans’ Day ceremonies.
“I am happy to do it,” he said. “It’s something I can do in memory of my dad.
Greg Bogh
Greg Bogh is a former Yucaipa mayor and council member. He served three terms with integrity and earned the respect and admiration of the council, constituents and regional politicians. And while his political career is above reproach, he’s modest and humble in his accomplishments. Bogh attended San Bernardino high school and met the love of his life Rosilicie there. In 1991, after graduation, he attended to San Bernardino Valley College and transferred to California State University San Bernardino to earn a degree in business finance. Bogh moved his family to Yucaipa in 2002 and instantly fell in love with the community of Yucaipa and was elected as councilmember, then mayor. He brought back 4th of July celebration and took an active role at Yucaipa music and arts festival. Among the countless activities BOGH has been involved with is volunteerism. He has attended and worked every make a difference day event over the past decade. Bogh and his family volunteered to clean fields, plant trees and install sod on the Little League fields, among countless other projects in Yucaipa. Recently, he was elected to Yucaipa Valley Water District. Yucaipa is lucky to have Greg and his family as residents