Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Honoring the Heart and Soul of a District

By EDDIE RIVERA

[Photo courtesy office of Rep. Judy Chu]

Nine community members and groups recognized by Congresswoman Judy Chu at Congressional Leadership event

In a year marked by the devastation of the Eaton Fire and its aftermath, Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-Pasadena) honored individuals and organizations who stepped up for their communities.

Chu’s annual Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony, held in Arcadia for constituents in California’s 28th Congressional District (which includes Pasadena), celebrated those whose contributions touched nearly every corner of the San Gabriel Valley.

The event was emceed by actress and community advocate Tamlyn Tomita, known for her roles in “The Karate Kid Part II,” “The Joy Luck Club,” and “Star Trek: Picard.”

“After everything our communities have been through, especially in the wake of the Eaton Fire, these leaders stepped up,” Chu told the audience. “Many of our honorees have helped families rebuild, uplifted young people, supported our seniors, empowered immigrant communities, and brought hope during some of the hardest times. They really do represent the very best of the San Gabriel Valley.”

Among those honored was Wendy Sinnette, superintendent of the La Cañada Unified School District, named Educator of the Year for her leadership during the pandemic and fire recovery. Sinnette’s efforts helped stabilize schools and provide continuity for students and families in a district directly affected by the disaster.

San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity was recognized as Nonprofit of the Year for decades of affordable housing work and a rapid response to the Eaton Fire. The organization mobilized volunteers and launched rebuilding projects across impacted neighborhoods.

Pastor Jonathan “Jon” DeCuir of Victory Bible Church in Pasadena received the Community Activist of the Year award for transforming his church into a relief hub and initiating the Legacy Land Project to support long-term housing and recovery.

Small business leaders Jason Kim and Johanna Quach, owners of Paris Baguette San Gabriel, were named Businesspeople of the Year for their philanthropy supporting local schools, first responders, and inclusive hiring.

Rev. Gene Boutilier of Claremont, a lifelong advocate for social justice, received the Volunteer of the Year award for helping launch Larkin Place, a supportive housing project in Claremont.

The Los Angeles-based National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) shared the Nonprofit of the Year title for advocacy on behalf of immigrant workers and leadership in fire recovery through the Pasadena Community Job Center.

Other honorees included actor and activist Tzi Ma, recognized for his leadership in the #WashTheHate campaign, Altadena’s Nic Arnzen for founding Altadena Pride, and meteorologist Edgar McGregor for issuing early evacuation warnings ahead of the Eaton Fire.

Chu reflected, “These people are educators, volunteers, activists, and small business owners. I’m so proud to recognize them for all they’ve done and all they continue to do.”