Real estate broker Daniel Andrade installed as chamber of commerce president

DOWNEY — Real estate broker Daniel Andrade was installed as the next president of the Downey Chamber of Commerce at its annual Installation, Awards, and Anniversary Luncheon held at the Embassy Suites on Thursday.

Sworn in by Mayor Claudia M. Frometa, in front of many of Downey’s officials and business community, Andrade – of Beautiful Homes Real Estate - said “we can do more together.”

“That’s what the Chamber is about; it’s about all of us supporting each other and making ourselves better,” said Andrade. “If you have an issue, definitely reach out to us, because we’re here to support you.”

His newly established executive board will consist of President Elect Rain Neg, Vice Presidents Jeannie Wood and Jennifer DeKay, Immediate Past President Carmen Gonzalez, and Treasurer Jesse Gallardo.

The afternoon’s festivities also served as a moment to give thanks to the aforementioned Gonzalez, who described her 2022-23 term as a “bravo year.”

“This journey has been extra special to me. Being a long-time resident of Downey, and being associated with the Chamber since 2014, the last 12 months has taught me a lot and has been nonstop,” said Gonzalez.

Under Gonzalez, the Chamber welcomed new members, hosting 14 ribbon-cutting events, hosted a breakfast tax seminar, hosted monthly city affairs meetings, ambassadors lunch meetings, a recycling event, a women’s empowerment conference, the annual Christmas parade and street fair.

Gonzalez expressed thanks in her closing remarks.

“I’d like to thank our ambassadors, city leaders, chamber members, local elected representatives, city staff, our mayor and city council,” said Gonzalez. “It has been an honor to have worked with you all throughout the year.”

The Chamber concluded the event by recognizing its longtime members and giving out several awards, including:

- Large Business of the Year: Athens Services

- Small Business of the Year: Tech Builders

- Rookie of the Year: Springhill Suites by Marriott

- Director of the Year: Jeannie Wood

- Ambassador of the Year: Maria Rubidoux

- Volunteer of the Year: Joanna Peterson

- Woman of the Year: Cathi Calvert