Parks & Rec Commission Chairman Proven a Community Champion

For Moreno Valley's Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman James C. Baker II, helping others build just comes naturally - and that's the quality that earned him distinction as a community champion after he received the prestigious California Park and Recreation Society Community Champion award. Baker was honored for service, which city officials called "exemplary," to the city of Moreno Valley during the recognition at the CPRS District 11, which covers all of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, Annual Awards and Installation. Joining the commission in 2008, Baker, a Moreno Valley Citizen of the Year nominee, also has been leading the commission in several capacities: first as its vice chair in 2009 and 2010, and he now continues as its chairman since being elected to that position in 2013. "I joined the commission because I believed that Moreno Valley is a great city and I felt that I had something to offer," said Baker, who also previously served as a cultural and heritage commissioner in Anaheim in 2006, under the mentorship of former Anaheim City Mayor Curt Pringle. "I never liked standing in the background complaining about what couldn't be done, but rather (wanted to) reach out to find out what can be done, and the take steps to make it happen. I've been building and been helping people build all of my life. I've always felt that, if we can do better, we should do better." A Moreno Valley resident for eight years now, Baker said news of his recognition came as a pleasant surprise. "I was shocked, excited and thrilled," said Baker. In addition to his service on the Parks & Recreation Commission, Baker was also recognized for his individual service to the community as the leader of the volunteer effort to maintain and light the "M" on Box Springs Mountain. He has also contributed to the SGI International Peace Organization's permanent plaque location, now set in concrete in front of the Conference and Recreation center so all can read about Moreno Valley's history. Baker has created and designed the Liberty Float for the city's annual 4th of July parade. It won the sweepstakes award and earned the record for the largest float ever entered into the parade. It was taken to Morrison Park, an unprecedented move, and the float was recognized by California Assemblyman Jose Medina, said Baker. Attending many city-wide functions, Baker also serves on the Steering Committee for a new Boys and Girls Club in Moreno Valley, serves on the Eastern Municipal Water District board's advisory committee under Dave Slauson and serves with the African American Coalition with Moreno Valley Unified School District Trustee Dr. Denise Fleming. Baker is a strong supporter of parks and recreation, recognizing that excellent recreational facilities and programs enhance the quality of life in the community. A statement released by the city showed pride in Baker's accomplishment as the first Moreno Valley resident to receive a Community Champion Award from the CRPS District 11. Baker finished, "I thank everyone involved for bestowing me this high honer. Thank You CPRS and the City of Moreno Valley."