On a vibrant Wednesday, the city of Baldwin Park honored Bernardo Flores, a Major League Baseball player and cherished local, by dedicating Cleary Drive in his name. The event took place at Baldwin Park High School, where Flores, a former student, first showcased his athletic and academic prowess. The community gathered to celebrate not only Flores’s contributions to sports but also his enduring ties and contributions to his hometown.
Flores’s roots in Baldwin Park run deep. As a standout player in high school, he was an All-CIF selection and maintained his academic performance, making the honor roll. After graduating in 2013, he advanced his career at the University of Southern California, which paved his way to the professional arena. Drafted by the Chicago White Sox in 2016, Flores later played for multiple teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, embodying the spirit and determination reminiscent of Baldwin Park.
Yet, Flores’s influence stretches beyond the playing fields. He has notably utilized the offseasons to contribute to his community. Returning to Baldwin Park, Flores has been actively involved in mentoring and coaching at Baldwin Park High School alongside his former coach, Jake Barendregt. His commitment extends to nurturing the next generations of players, demonstrating his role as a mentor and community advocate.
The ceremony was marked by the unveiling of a new street sign on the newly christened Bernardo Flores Drive. The city’s decision to rename the street was notably backed by the City Council in a 4-1 vote during their meeting on September 18, affirming the community’s overwhelming support for the recognition of one of its heroes.
Baldwin Park’s initiative to honor local figures like Flores is a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering community pride and celebrating the achievements of its residents who inspire and impact future generations. The dedication of Bernardo Flores Drive stands as a symbol of civic pride and is an invitation to the community to reflect on the accomplishments of a figure who not only made it to the big leagues but also consistently gives back to the place where his journey began. Such celebrations anchor community values and hope, reminding everyone of the profound impacts of nurturing and recognizing local talent.
