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naugural Gala Recognized Outstanding Individuals and Businesses
March 3, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) -- More than 350 members and guests of the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce gathered last Friday night to celebrate the start of the Chamber’s 100th year serving the business community and residents of our region. The evening featured recognition for many community leaders, introduction of some special new awards, as well as inauguration of the Chamber’s new officers.
The Chamber honored Roger Roberts of Prudential California Realty for his stewardship of the Chamber as Chair of the Board of Directors in 2010. Roberts, a successful real estate executive since 1993, previously served for 25 years as a career U.S. Naval officer. A Chamber press release described his duties at the Chamber last year as “steering the organization’s ship through some rough seas.”
Incoming Chair Joe Mackey, Founder & President of XL Staffing and Excell Security Service, set the stage for the upcoming year as Congressman Duncan D. Hunter swore in the new Board of Directors. East County’s own Mark Grant served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies.
The Chamber’s initial dozen Centurions were introduced and thanked for their commitment of $1,000 apiece to the Chamber’s 501c3 charitable education foundation. Four new members made the commitment during the ceremonies, bringing the total to 16.
Two new traditions were initiated with the inception of a pair of first-time awards. In celebration of its Centennial Year, the Chamber’s new “Legacy Award” was given to its oldest continual member, La Mesa Lumber, an original member of the Chamber. In addition, the new “Chairman’s Award,” given by the outgoing chair, went to Joe Mackey for his key role in 2010.
Much of the evening’s excitement was focused on the “2011 Business of the Year” awards, given to those companies that distinguish themselves for service to their customers, community and the Chamber. Those singled-out as this year’s winners included:
El Cajon Small Business: Events with Pizazz! Inc.
La Mesa Small Business: Edible Arrangements
Lemon Grove Small Business: Glass & Screens, Inc.
El Cajon Large Business: Toyota of El Cajon
La Mesa Large Business: California Bank & Trust
Lemon Grove Large Business: EDCO Disposal Corp.
East County Regional Small Business: Sportsplex USA
East County Regional Large Business: Cox Communications
Close to 90 percent of the Chamber’s members are considered small businesses, with less than 10 employees each. Five businesses were nominated in each category, and three were selected as finalists.
Volunteers were also feted for their contributions to their community and Chamber. Each award recognized an individual who has set the bar for civic serve and volunteerism:
Nancy Dennison, Keller Williams Realty: George Felix Volunteer of the Year Award
Chuck Hansen, Viejas Enterprises: Stoney Stone Community Service Award
Kevin Miller, Foothills Christian Church: Wendell Cutting Ethics in Business Award
Elana Levens-Craig, Packaging Solutions for Today’s Industry: C. Allen Paul Award
Barry Jantz, Grossmont Healthcare District: Jim Schmidt Business Advocate Award
Jim Timlin, San Diego Business Supply: Ambassador of the Year
Rebecca Collier, Consultant: Leadership East County Alumni Award
Committee heads responsible for organizing the event included Evonne Darby of Barona Resort & Casino, Renae Arabo of Shamoun Investment Company, and the Chamber’s Vice President of Marketing & Events, Jarryd Davis.
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