If you want something done, look no further than Ellen Torres and Sam Hernandez to accomplish a task.
Together, they are among those unrivaled working tirelessly to make South Pasadena shine.
“Throughout their years in town, they have shown over and over a dedication to the organizations that give it its unique spirit,” said Alexandria Levitt, president of the Board of the Senior Citizen’s Foundation of South Pasadena, as the pair were recognized Monday night during the 4th annual Champions Awards in the South Pasadena Senior Center honoring individuals who have gone above and beyond to enhance the community.
The South Pasadena Champions Awards, along with singling out two individual’s outstanding service to the community, is also an opportunity to introduce attendees to the South Pasadena Senior Center and its fundraising arm, The Senior Citizens’ Foundation of South Pasadena.
Past Champion Awards recipients include Bob Joe and Granville Thurman in 2022 when the event kicked off, Sally Kilby and the late Ellen Daigle in 2023, and Glen Duncan and Anita Scott a year ago.
Both Torres and Hernandez have been heavily involved in their share of volunteer endeavors in the city over the years.
With a strong educational background, going back some 35 years, Torres has held leadership roles in the PTA – locally, district-wide, and at the state level. She has showcased her talents with the Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, AYSO, National Charity League, and the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library. She is a volunteer with the South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Committee, helping to raise funds for the city’s float that rolls down Pasadena’s Colorado Boulevard in the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day.
“I am truly honored to be recognized today,” she said. “To be named one of this year’s awardees along with Sam is really humbling. I never volunteer for the recognition. It’s just something that I’ve always kind of done. Actually, my first volunteering for the city was back when I was in high school and I started volunteering working on the float. Because I had the most volunteer hours and because I sold the most tickets, my senior year in high school I got to ride on the float.
Drawing a laugh, Torres pointed out, “I don’t want to age myself, but right ahead of us was the Jackson Five [on a float]. I got to hear them all the way down the parade route. That’s why I’ve always had this love for the float.”
Hernandez has been a strong supporter of Little League since 1992, the Festival of Balloons 4th of July Parade, and the South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association. Further, he has served on South Pasadena’s Public Works Commission and Chamber of Commerce – quietly doing it all without seeking attention. With a construction background, he’s also been a big part of development efforts around the city.
“It’s not about me, it really truly isn’t,” said Hernandez, when it was his turn at the podium. “I thank the city, I thank the council, I thank each and every one of you that is here this evening. You are absolutely why we are doing what we do. We just enjoy giving the time that we have left.
“Thanks to my lovely wife (Corlyn) for putting up with me for so many years,” he continued, noting: “I’m sorry I can’t give you enough of my time.”
Many nights during the spring and summer, Hernandez found himself flipping burgers as part of a ritual of barbecuing at the Little League softball snack stand, always graciously serving customers with a smile.
“I love Little League!” he declared.
As a preview to Monday’s event, both Hernandez and Torres rode down Mission Street in a convertible, waving to the crowd, during the city’s traditional Festival of Balloons Parade on the 4th of July.
“If we ever get to go down the parade route again, I’m going to pull a barbecue behind me,” Hernandez joked.
The 4th of July parade and all its festivities were especially important to Torres, who talked about her mother’s love for the big day in South Pasadena.
“This year was really, really meaningful to me riding in the parade. My mom loved the 4th of July. My mother passed away [some time ago] at 97 on July 1. She had her outfit out. So, it was very meaningful for me because she always wanted to ride in that parade when she turned 100. So, I wore the necklace she had ready, and it was an honor to ride in the parade.
“Thank you to all my friends and family that were here tonight to celebrate me,” she continued. “It really means a lot to have your support and thank you to the Senior Citizens’ Foundation for this wonderful honor. It really means a lot to me.”
Both Torres and Hernandez received flowers from the Foundation and certificates of recognition from political representatives at the County Supervisors, State Assembly and Senate level. Their names will go on a perpetual plaque, along with past recipients, at the Senior Center.
Introducing Ellen were longtime friends Therese Molina and Laura Kieffer. Making the introductions for Sam were a group that have been at his side for decades – Danny Parada, Brant Dunlap and Ed Wong.
A collection of individuals, an organization and firm were commended for their sponsorships: Diamond Sponsor – Kevin Bourland; Gold Sponsor – Athens Services; Silver Sponsors – South Pasadena Chinese American Club, SPiCCy Mamas, Mayor Janet Braun and Mary Urquhart; Bronze Sponsors – Charley Lu and Robert and Grace Kwan
No challenge seemingly is too great when it’s in the hands of Torres and Hernandez.
“Their dedication and community mindedness inspired all of us,” said Levitt. “We’re proud to honor them as this year’s Champions.”
