The recent Southwest Pacific Distributors Southern California annual awards and recognition dinner packed more than 240 registrants into the ballroom of the Long Beach Marriott for an evening of networking and honoring industry greats.
Delco Sales Chief Operating Officer Larry Burchill was the recipient of the industry honor that recognizes an individual employed by a supplier or representative agency who has significantly contributed to the promotion and growth of the PHCP-PVF industry. Burchill, who started in the wholesale business in 1989 with Golden West Pipe, was presented by his business partner and Delco CEO Chris Nicosia.
Hirsch Pipe and Supply’s Jiro Akasaka was honored with the Pioneer Award which recognizes an individual who has an extensive and longstanding commitment throughout their career in supporting the industry. Akasaka is a 48-year veteran of Hirsch and is currently its cultural ambassador and mentor. Akasaka started with Hirsch when the wholesaler had only three locations.
Akasaka was presented by Hirsch President and CEO and former ASA President Bill Glockner.
The Woman of the Year Award was given to the late Janet Taylor, who passed away Aug. 11 after a battle with cancer. Taylor worked for several industry firms during her career, working hard to manage her customers while keeping a great, positive attitude. Taylor was someone who would go the extra step in trying to find the right solutions, but most importantly, she was a dear friend to many in the industry.
Taylor was presented by close friend Rob Scott, of Action Plumbing Supply. The Woman of the Year honor is given in recognition of a female member of the industry who has shown commitment to promoting the industry as a career for other women.
Signature Sales’ Steve Komenda was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, presented at the discretion of the SWPD Advisory Council chairman to an individual who has exhibited exemplary service in promoting the SWPD brand throughout the region.
Komenda has worked in the PHCP-PVF industry for parts of six decades, starting at TFI/San Diego Pipe and Supply in 1978.. He also worked on the supplier side for A. O. Smith, and has been involved with other key industry associations such as PHCC, ASPE and IAPMO. He was presented by Signature Sales President and Principal Nick Schmalhofer.
