In 2021 Sam and Stephanie Cereceres became part of Grand Terrace Cars & Coffee as we met at Woody’s Classic Grill to see if he wanted to be part of our annual Grand Terrace Cars & Coffee Santa Claus Toy Drive Cruise. Over breakfast they were excited to become part of our cruise.
They have worked the San Bernardino City’s Ho Ho Parade that goes throughout the City of San Bernardino for 4 years and do other events to give back to the community.
They live in the north end of San Bernardino and have taught in the San Bernardino Schools for many years. Sam was my coach at Golden Valley Junior high in San Bernardino. He was always a car guy and a dear friend as we share our love of all types of cars.
Sam and Stephanie volunteered to bring the 1952 Seagrave Pasadena Fire Engine to our special events, that started in 2021 and have continued. They have been in every toy drive cruise since 2021 and have brought the fire engine to Community Day and of course the Blue Mountain Festival this past weekend.
In every event, we’ve had the Mayor, City Council, Lt Lane, Supervisor Rowe, and others ride on the fire engine for the events. This past Saturday they transported Mayor Bill Hussey, wife Debra, Council Members Doug Wilson, Jeff Allen, Ken Henderson, and Michelle Sabino and family.
They will be back in our Grand Terrace Cars and Coffee Santa Claus Toy Drive Cruise again this year in the first Friday of December.
The Seagrave Fire Engine uses 2.5 gallons of fuel per mile, they come from above 40th St. in SB and take side streets which takes about 45 minutes to Grand Terrace. They have refused any contributions to cover their fuel costs. They just love being a part of what we do for our community.
Stephanie is a retired middle school principal, San Bernardino City Unified School District and served on the San Bernardino Valley College Foundation, and still very involved in many things with the schools.
Sam coached at Cajon, Pacific, San Bernardino and San Gorgonio High Schools wrestling for 20 years, football for 10 years, track for 11 years, and volleyball for four years. Sam devoted 48 years officiating wrestling. Sam is also involved in many things including working with the Ken Hubbs foundation.
The Cereceres' story is one of dedication, passion, and community spirit. Their involvement in Grand Terrace Cars & Coffee and various other local events showcases their unwavering commitment to giving back. As they prepare to participate in the upcoming Santa Claus Toy Drive Cruise this December, their story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the impact of community engagement and the difference two dedicated individuals can make.