The studios of KPBS were transformed into a beautiful setting fit for the Academy Awards last week as Union Bank of California and KPBS gave its annual salute to Local Heroes Awards. The event, narrated by Robert and Delores McNeely, both senior Vice Presidents with Union Bank, was a first class event with great food catered by Magnolias and a host of Who’s Who in San Diego’s African American Community.
This year’s honorees were Jennie Hamilton, founder of Community Actor’s Theatre; Freddie M. Jackson, retired educator; Vincent E. Mudd, owner and President of San Diego Office Interiors; Cecil H. Steppe, President and CEO of the San Diego Urban League; John and Gerri Warren, Publishers of the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper and Reverend George Walker Smith, Founder of the Catfish Club who received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
“This award will not be given every year, but when deemed appropriate,” said Bob McNeely.
Doug Mepland, General Manager of KPBS started the evening’s activities with a statement about their commitment and support. The event was attended by about 100 friends and family members of the honorees at no cost to them or their guest. The 45 second videos produced on each honoree will air throughout the month of February as a tribute to Black History Month.
