City eNews Release:  Monday, February 1, 2010

Business community honors those who make a difference in Pittsburg

By Paul Burgarino
Contra Costa Times
Posted: 01/29/2010 08:30:58 PM PST
Updated: 01/30/2010 12:43:12 PM PST


Pittsburg's business community last week honored volunteers who have worked to make their community stronger — including a citizen of the year who remained active long after his employment took him elsewhere.

William Wong kept his home in Pittsburg after leaving his job as superintendent of the city's school district in 2001 for the same post in Albany.

The retired educator says he's embraced the community and often can be found working at events like the city's annual Seafood Festival or taking notes as secretary of Pittsburg Rotary. He is a member of the Elks Club and disaster assistance team with the Contra Costa County Red Cross. Wong was appointed to a vacancy on the Pittsburg school board last year.

"Because I have the time now that I'm retired, it's a lot easier," he said.

Wong, 62, was one of several people and businesses recognized at the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce's annual installation of its board of directors. Dave Adler of Pittsburg Disposal Service succeeded chiropractor Ron Quesada as board president.

All the winners were chosen by the chamber's executive board.

"I chose to stay here because I loved it here. When you love a community, it's easy to volunteer and want to give back," Wong said, adding he was humbled by the large turnout.

Santiago Soto, owner of Outback Steakhouse in Pittsburg, was named businessman of the year. Since opening in 2006, the steakhouse has assisted in raising more than $400,000 in the East Bay. The restaurateur is always looking to help out the community and get others involved, Adler said.

"It began as a struggle to get the kids out to scoop mashed potatoes or be cleanup crews on Saturdays," Soto said of early volunteer efforts. He also acknowledged the work of his management team.

The chamber recognized Pittsburg police officers Mark Mays and Ryan Wilkie for rescuing 4-year-old Dulce Hernandez from a fast-moving house fire on March 19, 2009.

The two officers acted quickly to hoist the young girl through a window opening and get her out of the home.

HASA, Inc., a manufacturer of water-sanitizing products for industrial, water treatment and swimming pool uses, was named business of the year.

Lisa Johnson, general manager of the Pittsburg site, said the family-owned and operated company was "humbled by the award" and that "customer service is paramount and our customers are partners."

"It's great to be recognized by our peers as a part of this community," she said.

Gail Pearson and Joanie Evola were recognized with the chamber's award for volunteers of the year for decades of service in various organizations.

"I don't think I deserve this, I'm like a small fish in the pond. I will accept this for those who get up everyday and do something for someone else," Pearson said.

Marina Vista Elementary third grade teacher Mary Alexander was named teacher of the year, and Bob Simonds was named veteran of the year.

The chamber also recognized outgoing Executive Vice President/CEO Mary Coniglio. Her successor Meredith Ladich said she "hopes to keep the ball rolling" and has some "big shoes to fill."

Contact Paul Burgarino at 925-779-7164. Follow him at Twitter.com/pittsburgarino

| R. Matt Rodriguez | Deputy City Manager - External Operations
| City of Pittsburg | 65 Civic Avenue | Pittsburg, CA 94565
| Office: (925) 252-4934 | Mobile: (925) 864-3346 | Fax: (925) 252-4851
| E-mail: mrodriguez@ci.pittsburg.ca.us