DOWNTOWN — The Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce held its 89th Annual Installation Dinner at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel on June 11. In addition to the official installation ceremony, the event included a recognition of chamber members whose work has impacted the community and benefited the chamber during the past year.
Laurel Rosen, President and CEO of the chamber, thanked the more than 500 people in attendance at the event for their support and several chamber officials addressed the crowd throughout the evening.
Ellis O'Connor with the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and a past chair of the board praised the local hospitality and restaurant industry.
"We should all be proud of the great talent in this city," he said.
Brad Cox, outgoing chair of the board, said it had been his pleasure to work with the 900 members during the last year and he said local businesses should continue to support economic growth in the city.
"Progress is critically important to meet the needs of future residents who want to live, work and play in the city of Santa Monica," he said.
While Assembly member Richard Bloom was unable to attend, he sent a written statement to event organizers. "I commend the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce leadership, members and staff for their work over the years representing business interests and issues facing the community. Helping members prosper and succeed ensures a healthy, thriving local economy," he said.
The Roy E. Naylor Achievement award, named for the founder of Naylor Paints, went to Jeffery Jarow of PAR Commercial Real Estate Brokerage for his years of volunteer work with groups like the Convention and Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Santa Monica Sister City Foundation, Main Street Business Improvement District, Santa Monica Alliance, YMCA, Ocean Park Association and SMASH PTSA.
The Bob Gabriel Community Service Award, named after the former City Councilman and local business owner, was presented to Morley Builders and Wells Fargo Advisors.
Morley Builders was recognized for contributing to the community since their founding in 1947. The Santa Monica-based company said their business is based on integrity of character which creates an environment of honesty, respect for others, ethical behavior and being profitable without being predatory.
While Wells Fargo was recognized for their community work, the audience responded with applause at the announcement the company would be driving their signature stage coach in the annual 4th of July parade.
The Chairman's Awards, presented in appreciation of work on behalf of the chamber, went to Susy Borlido of Green Business Programs, Jeffrey Fritz of Green City Real Estate, Iao Katagiri of the Rand Corporation, Paula Larmore of Harding Larmore Kutcher & Kozal, Jenna Linnekens of Extraordinary Events, Michael Paul of Swift Chip, Flor Perez of Pacific Park, Evan Pozarny of Muselli Commercial Realtors, Guari-Brienda Ramnath of Whole Foods Market, Jennifer Taylor of the City of Santa Monica, Linda Tisherman of Staff Support and Ria Valas of NMS Properties.
Visit www.smchamber.com for more information about the Chamber of Commerce.
matt@www.smdp.com
