Thursday, October 2 | Volume 40 No. 29

Thursday, October 1, 2026

San Bernardino Unites to Restore Historic Pioneer Cemetery

The City of San Bernardino, Rotary Club, Arrowhead United Way and Dameron Communications launch a major revitalization effort for the Pioneer Cemetery, a historic burial ground that has suffered years of vandalism and neglect

"This isn't just about cleaning up a cemetery," said Tawnya Rhoades- Hensley, president of San Bernardino Rotary, who is leading the effort. "It's about honoring the history of our community."

SAN BERNARDINO, CA - The City of San Bernardino is joining forces with San Bernardino Rotary, Arrowhead United Way and Dameron Communications to re store Pioneer Cemetery, a historic burial ground that has suffered years of vandalism and neglect. Brass placards have been stolen for recycling, and monuments, some dating back hundreds of years, have been broken and scattered. "This isn't just about cleaning up a cemetery," said Tawnya Rhoades- Hensley, president of San Bernardino Rotary, who is leading the effort. "It's about honoring the history of our community." The restoration project grew out of the passion of Jenon Anderson, a retired resident whose family history is rooted in the cemetery. Anderson and Director of Parks and Recreation Vanessa Carter brought together local historians, See "San Bernardino..." page 7

Inland Empire Caregivers Expo to Bring Free Resources, Expert Guidance and Community Support to the IE

Cheryl Brown

RIVERSIDE, CA — The Inland Empire Caregivers Expo will welcome caregivers, families, older adults and community members for a free day of information, connection and support on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Barbara and Art Culver Center of the Arts, 3438 Main Street, in Riverside. Created to strengthen the network of services available to caregivers across Riverside and San Bernardino counties, the Expo helps families find practical answers, trusted local resources, and a supportive community. The event grew out of a successful caregiver-focused gathering at the USC Lenard Davis School of Gerontology in Los Angeles, attended by members of Akoma’s Golden Agers program, who returned inspired to bring a similar experience to the Inland Empire. “Caregiving is going to come into your life if you live long enough,” said Cheryl Brown, a former Assemblymember, former chair of the California Commission on Aging, longtime caregiver advocate and organizer of the Expo.

“You may someday be a caregiver, or you may need one. It is important that everyone learns what it takes to care for another person and where to find help.” The Expo will feature panel discussions with professional caregivers, trained experts and family caregivers who understand the daily realities of providing care. Attendees will hear practical perspectives on caregiving responsibilities, available services, emotional support and the rewards and challenges that come with caring for a loved one. An Exhibitor Expo will also give attendees the opportunity to meet local organizations offering services related to home care, aging, wellness, assisted living and elder-care support. Lunch will be provided, and admission is free and open to the community, but a reservation is required. Major supporters of the Expo include the Black Voice News Foundation and community partners that connect Inland Empire families with the services they need. Organizers are also engaging the county's Office of Aging, caregiver organizations, labor partners, and civic groups to help build a stronger regional approach to caregiving. The Inland Empire Caregivers Expo reflects a growing need for education, awareness and collaboration as more families navigate care for parents, spouses, relatives and friends. By bringing Riverside and San Bernardino counties together, the event aims to reduce isolation, increase awareness of available services and honor the essential work caregivers perform every day. For more information and event updates, visit the Caregivers-Expo.com registration resources or contact Cheryl Brown at (909) 496-2337.