Area companies earn
Spirit of Solano awards
From
page C1 | December 06, 2015
FAIRFIELD — Ten area companies were
honored Thursday during the 20th annual Spirit of Solano luncheon at the Hilton
Garden Inn.
The program, sponsored by
Westamerica Bank and the Solano Economic Development Corporation, recognizes
companies that embody the spirit of Solano County. Chambers of commerce in
the county chose the honorees.
Businesses selected for this award
have two things in common, said David Payne, chief executive officer for
Westamerica Bank.
“They run very efficient businesses,
and they provide leadership in their communities and their chambers,” he said.
“Because of their individual
commitment, they’re also the kind of people who inspire their employees to give
back whenever anything is needed,” Payne said. “Because of them, Solano County
continues to be a beacon for business, demonstrating best practices for
success. They represent what Solano County is and how we choose to do
business.”
The Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of
Commerce presented two awards. The Fairfield business honored was Texas
Roadhouse, with Randy Blankenchip taking the award. Blankenchip shared his
experience of rebounding after being financially wiped out before starting his
restaurant in Fairfield.
For Suisun City, the spirit award
went to Republic Services-Solano Garbage Company, with Travis Armstrong
accepting on behalf of the company. Armstrong talked about the role his firm
has played in the community, telling how one driver got involved in a child’s
life.
Tony and Sherry LoForte of Zio
Fraedo’s of Vallejo received this year’s spirit award from the
Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce. With his wife at his side, Tony LoForte
spoke with pride about opening his business and becoming part of the Vallejo
community.
The Solano County Black Chamber of
Commerce honored businesswoman Elease Minor with its award. The chamber pointed
to her passion for helping mothers and children.
The Solano Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce bestowed its honor to Miriam Sammartino, of the Law Office of Miriam
Sammartino. She was recognized for her service to her community and the
positive influence she has had in people’s lives.
Stars Recreation Center received the
Vacaville Chamber of Commerce award, honoring Ernest Sousa and Ken Sousa. Stars
was noted for its service to local youth.
The Dixon Chamber of Commerce
honored second-generation florists, Dixon Florist & Gift Shop, with its
spirit award for this year. Courtney Kett, Melissa Taylor and Dana Martin
accepted the award for the family owned business that opened more than 50 years
ago.
Touro University received the
Vallejo Chamber of Commerce spirit award, which was accepted by Marilyn
Hopkins, the school’s provost and chief operating officer. The university was
recognized for its service to the community, which includes free health classes
and a student-run health clinic for uninsured residents.
The Benicia Chamber of Commerce
honor went to Todd Bigelow and his Round Table Pizza. Bigelow was recognized
for his generosity and loyalty to the community.
Jim and Shirley Lira of Lira’s
Supermarket received the award from the Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce. Lira
told those in attendance at the luncheon of the opportunity his partner, Bill
Dutra, provided in purchasing the market 25 years ago.
Reach Kevin W. Green at 427-6974 or kgreen@dailyrepublic.net.