Arcadia Chamber Honors Members of Committed Service

“The future is bright with this community,” said Arcadia Chamber CEO Karen Mac Nair. – photo courtesy Facebook

“The goal for today is to have fun,” asserted Arcadia Chamber CEO Karen Mac Nair with a certain smile. Considering the gusto of such a promising morning, the nearly 80 attendees gathered at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Monrovia gladly agreed with the aforementioned agenda as they sampled the buffet of golden waffles, chilled fruit, and refreshing juices. The Business Awards and Networking Breakfast (July 21) was held in honor of those members who have contributed their time and talent to the community and Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.

Those dutifully honored were John Villa of Dance Syndicate Entertainment for New Member of the Year, Naomi Briones of Embassy Suites by Hilton Arcadia for Business Person of the Year, John Sun of Budget Blinds San Gabriel for the Chamber Service Award, and Andrew Gregson of Hart, Mieras & Morris for Business of the Year.

Leading into the awarding ceremony, Arcadia Chamber CEO Karen Mac Nair confirmed, “the future is bright with this community” in regards to the honorees. Their illuminating character will continue to impact the community because they are passionate not only in profession, but also with involvement.

Chamber President Vicki Knight of Century Rooter Service & Plumbing, Viola Van of Congresswoman Judy Chu’s office, Clayton Arick of Senator Hernandez’s office, Brian Mejia of Supervisor Antonovich’s office, and Mayor of Arcadia Tom Beck each conferred recognition upon the esteemed guests.

John Villa, of Dance Syndicate Entertainment, is the chosen New Member of the Year for both his gift of heart and giving time whenever he DJs, making those enjoying his productions feel valued. His dedication has been one of lasting impact, considering that it was his eighth grade graduating class that first witnessed his aptitude of stirring joy with music. Villa has been the cherished DJ for Chamber events such as mixers and the Installation Dinner, due to his ability to connect with the audience and elevate their experience in a simple and profound way.

Naomi Briones, of Embassy Suites by Hilton Arcadia, is the Business Person of Year for her position of director of sales that allows her to reach into the community with her natural hospitality. From a young age, she has wanted to work in hotels and has since extended her caring nature with participation as a chamber ambassador and board member of the Downtown Arcadia Improvement Association. Her positivity and endless encouragement of Chamber undertakings proves that she is not only a professional leader, but also a dear friend.

John Sun, from Budget Blinds San Gabriel, received the Chamber Service Award for his unyielding contributions to the Chamber. His dependability as an ambassador and support of other Chamber members with his consistent attendance and unquestionable lend of hand renders him an example as a volunteer; his van is always the first vehicle on the scene. He even helped set up for the morning festivities. His work ethic is truly extraordinary and thankless.

Hart, Mieras & Morris was awarded Business of the Year for the company’s proactive approach to planning and involvement in the community and Chamber. Andrew Gregson, the CEO, and Gary Morris, senior partner, both accepted the award and thanked their team seated at the table before them. Gregson’s reliability and accommodating attitude ensures that Chamber operations and goals are not only met, but succeed since serving his time as president and on the executive board.

The next Networking Breakfast will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Monrovia on Aug. 18. Tickets to the event, which runs from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., are $20 in advance ($25 at the door) and discounted to $15 for Chamber members who pay by the previous Friday ($20 at the door for Chamber members. No additional charge for those with an all-access pass). For tickets call (626) 447-2159, visit the “shop” page at www.arcadiacachamber.org, or the Chamber office, 388 W. Huntington Drive, during regular business hours.

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