Rep. Chu Honors Local Leaders at 2026 Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony

ARCADIA, CA - Today, Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28) hosted her annual Congressional Leadership of the Year Awards Ceremony, honoring ten remarkable individuals and organizations from across California's 28th Congressional District for their outstanding service and contributions to their communities.

"This year's honorees are our everyday leaders, the educators, volunteers, activists, and small business owners who have made a real difference in the San Gabriel Valley," said Rep. Chu. "I'm proud to recognize them all, not only for their accomplishments, but for the lasting impact they make every single day. Their service reminds us of the importance of community, showing up for others, and the difference one person can make."

This year's honorees include:

Ringo Chiu - Building Bridges Award (Temple City): Ringo Chiu, a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist, was recognized for his dedication to building bridges through his work in photojournalism. Throughout his career, Ringo has repeatedly put himself at risk to document important events and moments, including California wildfires, Black Lives Matter protests, ICE raids, and more. Through his powerful visual storytelling, Ringo has consistently connected people, inspired empathy, and helped strengthen communities during times of crisis.

Fair Oaks Burger, Christy Lee and Janet Lee - Business of the Year (Altadena): Fair Oaks Burger was recognized for serving the Altadena community in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire. Owned by Christy and Janet Lee, the business has become a cornerstone for the Altadena community, providing a place for residents to come together, support one another, and rebuild by hosting farmers' markets, food giveaways, and countless community events.

Webster's Community Pharmacy, Meredith and Michael Miller - Business of the Year (Altadena): Webster's Community Pharmacy, currently owned by pharmacist Michael Miller and his wife Meredith, was recognized for their 100 years serving Altadena. Through challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Eaton Fire, Webster's has remained a trusted community resource. Beyond pharmacy services, the business supports local artists and businesses, operates Altadena's Village Post Office, and raised funds for local business recovery through its "Beautiful Altadena 91101" merchandise following the Eaton Fire.

Javier Arellano, Owner of Taco Bout Good - Community Activist of the Year (Upland): Javier Arellano has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to serving the Upland community through both his business and charitable efforts, including numerous meal donations to first responders and essential workers. After transforming his own life, he has used his second chance to give back, advocate for men's mental health, and create a place of connection, hope, and service for the community. His dedication has earned him widespread recognition, including being named the Upland Chamber of Commerce's Businessperson of the Year in 2020 and his restaurant receiving the BusinessRate Upland Best of 2025 award.

Ruben Karapetian - Community Activist of the Year (La Crescenta): Ruben Karapetian was recognized for his leadership as the Executive Director of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) - Western Region, which is the largest and most influential Armenian American grassroots advocacy organization in the Western United States. Working on the local, state, and federal level, Karapetian advocates for Armenian American priorities, promotes recognition of Armenian American history and identity, and advocates for human rights overseas.

Altadena Meals on Wheels, Shannon Anderson and Shelley Mitchell - Nonprofit of the Year (Altadena): Altadena Meals on Wheels (AMOW) was recognized for more than 53 years of service and dedication to ensuring seniors and individuals in need have access to nutritious meals and compassionate support. Shannon and Shelley have been a vital force in rebuilding Altadena Meals on Wheels from the ground up following the Eaton Fire, restoring its meal delivery services and ensuring vulnerable residents throughout Altadena continue to receive the care and support they need.

Dean Sheldon Serwin - Volunteer of the Year (South Pasadena): Dean Sheldon Serwin was recognized for more than a decade of dedicated volunteer service to the South Pasadena community, supporting youth development, education, the arts, and civic initiatives. From Scouting and school programs to the South Pasadena Arts Council and The Oneonta Club Foundation, Dean has helped uplift the community by supporting projects that benefit residents. He has also played a key role in local funding measures supporting education, public safety, library services, and infrastructure.

Otis Triplett - Volunteer of the Year (Pasadena & Altadena): Otis Triplett was recognized for his nearly three decades of serving the Pasadena community through volunteerism, mentorship, and civic leadership. An 88-year-old U.S. Army veteran and successful business owner, he continues to volunteer with the Pasadena Police Department's Community Assisting Pasadena Police (CAPP) program, inspiring generations through his perseverance and commitment to service.

Mikaela Hong - Youth of the Year (La Cañada-Flintridge): Mikaela Hong, a senior from La Cañada High School and a stage IV pediatric cancer patient for 7 years, was recognized for her leadership as the Founder and Executive Director of the Pediatric Hope Project, one of the largest youth-led nonprofits in the United States, which provides free, virtual, one-on-one weekly tutoring and emotional support to children battling serious illnesses. This year, she has advocated for Congressmember Chu's consideration in sponsoring a resolution to designate September 3 as National Neuroblastoma Awareness Day. Mikaela's leadership demonstrates extraordinary resilience, compassion, and dedication to improving the lives of children and families affected by cancer.

Robert "Bob" L. Gin - Lifetime Achievement Award (Alhambra & Monterey Park): Robert (Bob) L. Gin was recognized for his decades of service in public education, serving on the Alhambra Unified School District Board of Education for over 24 years. During his tenure, he has helped lead the successful unification of the district into a seamless TK-12 system and expanded educational opportunities for more than 14,000 students. He has also helped mentor generations of young leaders through the district's student leadership programs. As he concludes his final term on the Board, Bob leaves a legacy of leadership, collaboration, mentorship, and service that has strengthened the Alhambra and Monterey Park community for generations.