Anonymous
By the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce
The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, from Goleta to Carpinteria, honored several outstanding individuals for their remarkable contributions to the Carpinteria community at the 64th Annual Carpinteria Community Awards Gala held on April 1 at the picturesque Rincon Beach Club in Carpinteria. CLICK HERE to view photos from the event.
In keeping with tradition, many of the evening’s honorees were kept secret until the evening’s awards ceremony, including the highly anticipated announcement of the 2022 Carpinterian of the Year. In a rare and unique surprise, the award went to Gregg and Geri Ann Carty. Only three times in the history of this event has the Carpinterian of the Year been awarded to an exceptional couple. The Carty’s were recognized for their contributions over the years to the California Avocado Festival, The Alcazar Theater, The Lynda Fairly Carpinteria Arts Center, Carpinteria Woman’s Club, Carpinteria Bluffs, Carpinteria Education Foundation, Girls Incorporated of Carpinteria, Carp Cares for Kids, the Orchard to Ocean run, the new Carpinteria Skate Park, Compassionate Care of Carpinteria, local elementary schools and Mentor Match, just to name a few.
Also revealed at the gala was the selection of the 2022 Junior Carpinterian of the Year, which was presented to Stephanie Ramirez Garcia, a senior at Carpinteria High School. Stephanie was selected for her hard work, dedication, and leadership qualities that make her a role model for her peers and a valuable member of her community. She received a $10,000 scholarship thanks to the generosity of a former Junior Carpinterian of the Year who was on hand to present the award. The two runners-up, Hugo Alvarado Carmona Aldair and Monica Adriana Delgado each received a $3,000 scholarship.
A Special Recognition Award was given to Dave Durflinger, recognizing his service as City Manager over the last 24 years. Dave recently announced his plans to retire; we are honored to thank him and celebrate his many contributions to the Carpinteria community.
Two outstanding Educators of the Year were honored for their impact on their students, colleagues, and the school community. Matthew McPherson, a Special Education teacher at Aliso Elementary School and Jennifer Foster, a math teacher at Carpinteria Middle School were presented their awards by Diana Rigby, Superintendent of the Carpinteria Unified School District.
The program also recognized the exceptional work of volunteers and individuals who have made a significant impact on non-profit organizations through Merit Awards. These awards are intended to celebrate outstanding accomplishments and contributions of community members towards the growth and development of the Carpinteria Valley Community. The 2022 Merit Awards were granted to:
Many thanks to our generous Sponsors:
Presenting Sponsors: Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck and Chevron.
Event Sponsors: Agilent Technologies, BEGA North America, City of Carpinteria, Dirt Botanicals/PacWest Blooms, E.J. Harrison & Sons, Events by Rincon, ExxonMobil, Granite Construction, Island Brewing Company, LinkedIn, MarBorg Industries, and NAPA Coast Auto Parts, Inc.
About Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce
The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, from Goleta to Carpinteria, is a regional, business organization with the mission to help South Coast businesses, residents, and visitors thrive. Through leadership and collaboration, the Chamber is the principal economic development entity advocating for the business community. We engage with businesses, elected officials, and regional partners in proactive business initiatives that foster the South Coast’s unique business environment and create opportunities for our communities. The Chamber is proud to represent local business members who create 75,000 jobs on the South Coast! To learn more, visit sbscchamber.com.
