2012 Calendar page 4, February

Item

Title

Identifier

2021.005.004

Type

Image

Description

The black and white 2012 RCMAHS February calendar cover that are both in English and Spanish. There are multiple images of Simona Valero from her early, middle, and current life. Next to the images are descriptions of her life from when she was a teenager up until her current position. The description further mentions her importance as a community member of Riverside County. The text states: "Simona is the youngest of 16 children whose family settled in Casa Blanca in 1911. She was born on February 18, 1922, in Casa Blanca. Her father, Ascencion Martinez worked in the fields and in irrigation. Then he had a Barber Shop in Casa Blanca for many years. The death of her mother when she was nine years old had a great impact on her life. At the age of 16 years, she became responsible for running the house and caring for her father and three brothers living at home. She never attended High School but had opportunities by The Economic Opportunity Board and took Extension courses at UCR. At 16 years old she ran the Casa Blanca Post Office while the postmistress was on maternity leave. She also worked in area packing houses, a local grocery store, and a boutique. She went to work for the EOB in the early 1960s until it was phased out in 1972. Then she went to work for Riverside County the following year. Simona has served on many committees in her community, where she has been recognized and honored for her outstanding services. To this day she still volunteers and feels her community is part of her. Linda Salinas-Thompson September 2011."