Henry Lo was the Master of Ceremonies on December 19th where Assemblymember Ed Chau honored nine outstanding individuals and organizations with the “Make a Difference Award” for their dedication and commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in the community. The award ceremony took place during the Assemblymember’s annual “Holiday Toy Drive” in the City of San Gabriel at the Hilton Hotel.

Ed Chau and his family enjoyed the event.

Garvey School Boardmember Henry Lo, Assemblymember Ed Chau and Monterey Park Councilmember Peter Chan shared a moment at the party.

Alhambra Councilmember Adele Andrade-Stadler with Snoopy joined Assemblymember Ed Chau at the Toy Drive.

Carol Sullivan, Assemblymember Ed Chau, Theresa Amador and Jason Dhing joined this special event.

Assemblymember Ed Chau and Dave Barron shared a moment at the party.

Assemblymember Ed Chau and Bob Gin shared a moment at the event.

Henry Lo welcomed all the residents to this annual Holiday Event sponsored by Assemblymember Ed Chau. He introduced Music Director Marina Tahmizian and her students the “Rhythmax”.

The “Rhythmax” performed several Christmas Carols to the delight of all of the guests.  These wonderful performers are students at Rice Elementary School in Rosemead.

Assemblymember Ed Chau gave a proclamation to Music Director Marina Tahmizian in honor of their holiday performance.

Henry Lo introduced Caitlyn Chau who led our flag salute.

Daisy Ma welcomed all to this event. She introduced her boss Assemblymember Ed Chau.

Assemblymember Ed Chau welcomed the 250 guests to special event and toy drive. It is the time of the season to share with other people less fortunate then us. These toys will help children enjoy their Christmas.

He introduced some of the guests that included Monterey Park Councilmember Peter Chan, Alhambra Councilmember Adele Andrade-Stadler, Alhambra School Boardmember Bob Gin, former Alhambra Mayor Barbara Messina, former Monterey Park City Clerk Dave Barron and Becky Chang from Congressmember Judy Chu’s office.

He spoke about the $240,000,000 state budget for education. That is $12,000 per student. The plans to wave fees for the two-year community colleges. This allows young people to be the first in their family to go to college. Education is important to our families. He spoke about the $40,000 Cal Grants. In the 49th District we have 19 colleges. Education is valued and treasured. It is a great investment in our future.

He spoke about his bills that have become law that include Housing AB 173; Public Safety AB 397; Mental Health AB 453; Business and Professions AB 775 and Privacy and Consumer Protection AB 1202.

He thanked the residents for their help and he thanked his team for their support.

Assemblymember Ed Chau introduced the honorees to the audience. “I commend these outstanding role-models.  These individuals and organizations have dedicated themselves to serving others and are actively involved in local community affairs,” said Assemblymember Chau. “Their professional and personal dedication to issues, such as support for our military personnel, education, gun-safety, public health, and local community causes is inspirational, and should be recognized by all of us.”

Ed Chau honored The International Youth Tobacco Control (IYTC), an organization that works to prevent teenage smoking. Lisa Lu thanked Ed Chau for this award. She and her team of students are volunteers that are making a difference in our community.

Ed Chau honored Theresa Amador, a Board Member for the Monterey Park Library Foundation and local volunteer in Monterey Park. She thanked her family and the community for this honor. She thanked Ed Chau for this award.

Ed Chau honored Jose Sanchez, a local Alhambra High School Teacher and Grass-Roots Activist. He and his students have been working on issues like gun control and helping eligible students to register to vote. He takes his students to events that honor him because it helps to keep the California Dream alive. He thanked Ed Chau for this award.

Ed Chau honored Dawn Tarin, a local educator and volunteer in Temple City.  She is a member of The El Monte Women’s Club, a 115-year-old organization that promotes cultural and philanthropic work in El Monte. She thanked Ed Chau for this award. You all make a difference in our lives.

Ed Chau honored the Chinese-American Military Support (CAMS), a Chinese-American support group for military personnel. Commander Arthur Fong and other members of CAMS reminded the guests that we are still at war. Military members serve our country and help the community. He thanked Ed Chau for this award.

Ed Chau honored Vivian Chan the founded of Youth Wellness and Arts Activists for her volunteer service to the community. She said she was surprised to receive this honor. She preaches joy to everyone. Giving is receiving. Volunteering is valued every day for the community. Please hug your kids. She thanked Ed Chau for this award.

Ed Chau honored Harry Baldwin a Life-Long Public Servant for his many years serving on the San Gabriel City Council, the Chamber of Commerce and many other boards and commissions. He thanked his wife Sally for her love and support. He joked about when Harry met Sally. He stated volunteers are the grass roots in the San Gabriel Valley. He thanked Ed Chau and all of the volunteer organization for their service to the community.

Ed Chau honored Jaime Lee a local volunteer in Arcadia for her services to her community. She promotes volunteerism, supports education and helps to bridge the many cultures in her community. She said she was moved to receive this award. We are trying to contribute to the next generation. She thanked Ed Chau, her family and friends.

Ed Chau honored members of the El Monte Women’s Club for their 117 years of volunteering service to their community. They support education, veterans and many other local organizations. They thanked Ed Chau for honoring their group.

Ed Chau thanked all of the honorees and guests for their generous donations to celebrate the holiday season. He thanked his staff for their services to our community.

Ed Chau joined with all of the honorees and elected officials for a group picture.

“In the spirit of the holidays, it is a pleasure to bring together various communities in my district to celebrate,” said Assemblymember Chau.  “Given these tumultuous times, I am extremely grateful for the generosity demonstrated by constituents who donated toys that will bring smiles to many children during this season.” All toys collected are donated to non-profit organizations, for distribution to families in need within the 49^TH Assembly District.

Theresa Amador celebrated this event with her family members and friends.

Assemblymember Ed Chau represents the 49th Assembly District, which includes the cities of Alhambra, Arcadia, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel, San Marino, Temple City, and portions of El Monte, Montebello, and South El Monte.