Politicos, Business Leaders Honored

Politicians minded San Pedro’s business and local civic leaders marked their moment in the spotlight at a San Pedro Chamber of Commerce luncheon Thursday.

According to Chamber officials, this was the first time all three Los Angeles citywide political leaders were in San Pedro at the same time. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Controller-elect Wendy Greuel and City Attorney-elect Carmen “Nuch” Trutanich were the main attraction at the Chamber luncheon.

From left, incoming Chamber chair Jayme Wilson, outgoing Chamber chair John Ek, City Attorney-elect Carmen Trutanich, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Controller-elect Wendy Greuel and Chamber president Camilla Townsend.

In accepting the Chamber’s “leadership” award, Villaraigosa highlighted city efforts to advance “green” technology at the port. “Greening and growing the port is essential, but you can’t do one without the other,” said Villaraigosa. (This was the angle of the Daily Breeze story on the mayor’s visit.)

Cindy Miscikowski, the mayor’s nominee to lead the Board of Harbor Commissioners, was among the luncheon guests.

Greuel and Trutanich referred to the reform-minded agendas they will push when they take office on July 1.

Greuel said that during her 1 a.m. call to congratulate Trutanich on his election, she asked, “Are you ready for your audit?” Unlike the incumbent city attorney, Trutanich supports a Controller audit of the city attorney’s office.

Trutanich began his remarks by encouraging the audience to applaud itself because “we’re here. We’re on the map.” Pledging to shake up City Hall, he said, “I’m thankful and humbled by your support. You ain’t seen nothing yet.”

The Chamber presented awards to three San Pedro businesses.

Downtown developer Eric Eisenberg of the Renaissance Group received the “bold vision” award for his leadership in spurring business improvement efforts.

Niko’s Pizzeria was named Restaurant of the Year. Owners Deno Boosalis, second from left, and Nick Tsoufoulas are flanked by Chamber leaders Jayme Wilson, left, and John Ek.

Moises Figueroa, center, accepted the Business of the Year award for SA Recycling from Chamber officers John Ek and Camilla Townsend.