2022 ‘Three C’ awards presented by Concord Chamber

CONCORD, CA (Sept. 15, 2022) — The Concord Chamber of Commerce gathered for breakfast at the Concord Hilton Aug. 11 to install new board members, recognize major sponsors and honor those that kept the organization upright and growing even during a two-year pandemic.

At the podium was Melissa Rea who was recently named president and CEO of the 85-year-old organization.

“With the onset of the Pandemic, (the Chamber) quickly adapted…we became masters of Zoom, implemented a virtual training program, administered the small business grants on behalf of the city, partnered with the city to create the Shop Concord campaign to keep dollars local and created a Hispanic Business Committee…”

None of this would be possible without a great team, generous sponsors, and enthusiastic community support, she said.

The “Three Cs” awards were created a few years ago to recognize businesses and representatives in the Chamber who have contributed “above and beyond” to the Chamber’s growth and to creating a business friendly environment in Concord. The Catalyst award for outstanding contribution to business growth went to Marathon Renewable Fuels for their proactive efforts to produce renewable fuels that contribute to the state’s climate goals and lower carbon emissions.

Marathon shut down their petroleum refinery in 2020.

Jenniffer Jimenez, owner of La Fritanguera was honored with the Chamber Convener Award for her work with forming the Hispanic Business Committee and networking efforts that kept her Nicaraguan restaurant open and supported others in the city.

Champion Award

Finally, the Champion Award went to Bay Area Festivals’ Jay Bedecarré, producer of Kidfest, holiday boutique shows, Contra Costa Con and a variety of book fairs and gift shows. He has produced over 2000 events since beginning his business career in 1971.

“My family moved to Concord and opened a family business in 1955, and we’ve been a part of the Concord business community ever since,” said. “So, I’m very honored to receive this recognition.”

Bedecarré played a major role in opening the Concord Pavilion and marketing the Concord Jazz Festival, events that Rea noted “are successful in bringing people into our community and creating a place where you can make memories with friends and family, fitting for Concord’s mottos of Where Families Come First.”

For more information on the Concord Chamber of Commerce, go to concordchamber.com, or stop by the office at 2280 Diamond Blvd Suite 200, Concord.