Assembly District 51 Community Excellence Awards
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the historic Egyptian Theatre to celebrate leaders who make Assembly District 51 shine. Our honorees embody the California we're building together, safe, inclusive, resilient and filled with opportunity. Ours is truly a community that shows up for one another.
Watch the full Awards Ceremony below, featuring powerful stories of honorees who have led our community, state and nation in remarkable ways, including combating human trafficking, sharing critical insights with millions of online followers, fighting to keep Hollywood in California and serving as the longest-tenured LGBTQ+ elected official in the United States. Each of our awardees embodies, in their own way, what California can be: a state led by people who, in times of crisis, rise to serve their communities with compassion, courage and heart.
With care,
Rick Chavez Zbur
Democratic Caucus Chair of the California State Assembly
Representing Assembly District 51
Our full list of 2025 Assembly District 51 Community Excellence Awardees (with timestamps corresponding to the video above):
Assembly District 51 People of the Year
- AD51 Firefighters (City and County of Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica) [10:12]
Community Excellence Awards
- Civic Leadership: City of Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete, Mayor Pro Tem Caroline Torosis, Councilmembers Barry Snell, Natalya Zernitskaya, Dan Hall, Ellis Raskin and Jesse Zwick; Chief Resilience Officer Lindsay Call, Public Works Director Rick Valte, Transportation Director Anuj Gupta, Fire Chief Matthew Hallock and Interim Police Chief Darrick Jacob; Dr. Lizzy Moore, SMC Foundation President [15:52]
- Legacy in Public Safety & Civic Leadership: Los Angeles Police Department Senior Lead Officer Paul P. Jordan (posthumous) [22:50]
- National Advocacy: Political Commentator & Podcast/YouTube Host Brian Tyler Cohen [26:36]
- Community Care Partner of the Year: Saban Community Clinic [30:00]
- Community Institution of the Year: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center [35:20]
- Community Safety: Jewish Nonprofit Magen Am USA [38:30]
- Combating Antisemitism: Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Sharona R. Nazarian [42:30]
- Distinguished Service in Local Government: West Hollywood Councilmember Lauren Meister [47:00]
- Mobility & Sustainability Advocacy: Streets For All [51:25]
- Community Uplift and Advocacy: Thai Community Development Center [54:00]
- Small Business of the Year: Club Tempo [58:10]
- Environmental Protection & Climate Action: Environmental Advocate Wendy-Sue Rosen [59:40]
- Community & Worker Advocacy: Entertainment Union Coalition President Rebecca Rhine & SAG-AFTRA Board Member, Grey's Anatomy Star and advocate Jason George [01:03:15]
Lifetime Achievement Award
- West Hollywood Vice Mayor John Heilman [01:12:55]
To learn more about these incredible recipients, please continue reading below.
Special thanks to Netflix and the American Cinematheque for opening this beautifully restored landmark and to the many first responders, city partners, nonprofits, small businesses and advocates who keep our neighborhoods strong.
2025 AD51 People of the Year
Asm. Zbur stands with the AD51 People of the Year Awardees on Sunday, October 12, 2025. From left: Asm. Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood); Assistant Chief Drew Smith, LA County Fire; Chief Matthew Hallock, Santa Monica Fire Department; and Chief Greg Barton, Beverly Hills Fire Department.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department, Los Angeles Fire Department, Santa Monica Fire Department and the Beverly Hills Fire Department received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Public Safety for their extraordinary service and heroism during the January wildfires. As the Palisades, Eaton and Sunset fires burned across Los Angeles County, firefighters from all four departments worked around the clock, on the ground and in the air, to stop the flames at the very edge of the 51st District. Their courage and coordination prevented catastrophic loss and safeguarded thousands of lives, homes and businesses.
Our firefighters' daily heroism is a testament to the selflessness and strength of California's first responders.
Civic Leadership Award
Asm. Zbur stands with the AD51 Civic Leadership Awardees on Sunday, October 12, 2025. From Left: Transportation Director Anuj Gupta; Public Works Director Rick Valte; Mayor Pro Tem Caroline Torosis; Fire Chief Matthew Hallock; Battalion Chief Jonathan Sly; Mayor Lana Negrete; City Councilmember Natalya Zernitskaya; Asm. Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood); Chief Resilience Officer Lindsay Call; City Councilmember Barry Snell; SMC Foundation President Dr. Lizzy Moore; SMC President Dr. Kathryn Jefferies; SMC Trustee Board Member Anastasia Foster; SMC Trustee Board Vice Chair Sion Roy; SMC Trustee Board Chair Dr. Nancy Greenstein; SMC Student Trustee Sophia Manavi; SMC Trustee Board Member Rob Rader and Interim Police Chief Darrick Jacob.
The City of Santa Monica and the Santa Monica College Foundation received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Civic Leadership for their extraordinary, whole-city response to the January wildfires. As flames from the Palisades and Eaton fires advanced toward the city and thousands of residents faced evacuation orders, Santa Monica demonstrated exceptional leadership, coordination, and resolve. Under the steady guidance of Mayor Lana Negrete, the City Council, and the City's Emergency Operations Center, led by Chief Resilience Officer Lindsay Call, the community mounted an organized and effective emergency response. The Santa Monica Fire Department, under Chief Matthew Hallock and the Santa Monica Police Department, worked tirelessly to protect lives, coordinate evacuations and ensure public safety. They were supported by the Department of Public Works, led by Director Rick Valte and the Department of Transportation, under Director Anuj Gupta, who maintained critical infrastructure and provided evacuation shuttles during the height of the crisis.
Amid the emergency, the Santa Monica College Foundation, under the leadership of Dr. Lizzy Moore and with the support of SMC's leadership, launched an extraordinary relief effort that embodied the city's resilient and generous spirit. Within 24 hours, the Foundation convened a coordinated response team that ultimately engaged nearly 4,000 volunteers, distributed more than 31 tons of essential goods and raised $1.7 million to support students, faculty and staff impacted by the fires.
Together, these leaders and institutions exemplified competence, coordination and compassion at scale, proving that in moments of crisis, Santa Monica's strength lies in its unity and unwavering commitment to one another.
Legacy in Public Safety & Civic Leadership (Posthumous)
Asm. Zbur shakes hands with Caroline Jordan, widow of Officer Paul P. Jordan, who was honored posthumously with the AD51 Civic Leadership Awardees on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Carolin Jordan accepts the AD51 Legacy in Public Safety and Civic Leadership Award for her late husband, Officer Paul P. Jordan, on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
The late Senior Lead Officer (SLO) Paul Jordan of the LAPD Hollywood Division received the 2025 AD51 Legacy in Public Safety and Civic Leadership Award for more than two decades of extraordinary service to the Hollywood community. As a Senior Lead Officer—known within the department as the trusted bridge between law enforcement and neighborhood life—Officer Jordan exemplified what it means to serve with compassion, integrity and constancy. For 22 years, he was a fixture in Hollywood: a familiar and trusted presence who resolved conflicts, supported local families and businesses and made his community safer and stronger every day.
Officer Jordan's commitment to service extended far beyond his uniform. Every December, he and his wife, Caroline Jordan, donned the roles of Santa and Mrs. Claus to bring joy to local children. Known as a humble, honest man, a devoted husband and a loving father to his children, Officer Jordan embodied the very best of public service. His passing earlier this year at age 58 was a heartbreaking loss to his family, his colleagues and the entire Hollywood community.
Caroline Jordan accepted the award on his behalf.
National Advocacy Award
Brian Tyler Cohen accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for National Advocacy on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Brian Tyler Cohen received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for National Advocacy for his extraordinary commitment to democracy and accountability. In an era defined by information overload and rising misinformation, Brian has built one of the most trusted and widely followed platforms in modern media reaching millions with fact-based reporting, incisive analysis and a deep respect for democratic values. Through his clear and engaging commentary, he has made complex issues accessible, empowered citizens to participate meaningfully in civic life and helped restore faith in the power of informed dialogue. His interviews, including as the first YouTuber to interview a sitting U.S. President, have reshaped how millions consume news and understand politics. His work continues to stand as a model of how thoughtful, truthful communication can move democracy forward.
Community Care Partner of the Year
Muriel Nouwens accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Health and Human Services on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
The Saban Community Clinic received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Health and Human Services for its more than fifty years of providing high quality, compassionate health care to Angelenos, regardless of income, housing status, insurance or immigration status. In a time of uncertainty for our health care system, the Saban Clinic remains a beacon of hope and healing, grounded in the belief that health care is a human right. Every year, thousands of families turn to Saban for primary and preventive care, pharmacy, dental and vision services, behavioral health, pediatrics, gynecological care, HIV prevention and treatment, LGBTQ+ health care and vital services for unhoused neighbors, including hygiene and nutrition programs.
Under the extraordinary leadership of Muriel Nouwens, the Clinic has expanded its reach, strengthened partnerships and navigated the immense challenges of recent years with compassion and resolve. Her vision continues to guide Saban's mission to deliver care rooted in dignity and access, reminding us that strong communities are built on the foundation of health, equity and shared humanity.
Community Institution of the Year
Stephanie Cohen accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Health and Human Services on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Health and Human Services in recognition of its decades of extraordinary service, innovation and commitment to the people of Los Angeles. Widely regarded as one of the nation's leading hospitals, Cedars-Sinai pairs world-class research and patient care with a deep commitment to community well-being. From charitable initiatives to emergency response, the institution continues to set the standard for excellence in health care and public service.
That spirit of compassion was on full display during the January wildfires, when hundreds of displaced veterans were temporarily sheltered in a district gymnasium without basic supplies. On a Saturday night, Cedars-Sinai's Vice President of Government & Industry Relations, Stephanie Cohen, personally delivered carloads of pillows so no veteran would go another night without comfort. It was a simple act that spoke volumes, reflecting Cedars-Sinai's mission to serve with humanity, integrity and care far beyond the hospital walls.
Community Safety Award
Rabbi Yossi Eilfort accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Community Safety on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Rabbi Yossi Eilfort and Magen Am received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Community Safety for their unwavering commitment to protecting and empowering the Jewish community. Founded and led by Rabbi Eilfort, Magen Am trains volunteers to safeguard synagogues, schools and community centers, ensuring Jewish Angelenos can worship, learn and gather in safety and peace. In a time of rising antisemitic hate and violence, their mission has never been more vital.
Magen Am's Community Team Members undergo more than 100 hours of specialized training, covering de-escalation, situational awareness and firearms safety, far exceeding state requirements. When protests outside the Adas Torah temple in Los Angeles turned violent last June, Magen Am's presence helped protect lives and restore calm. Through courage, discipline, and deep faith, Rabbi Yossi Eilfort and Magen Am have transformed fear into empowerment and service, standing as a powerful model of community strength and resilience.
Combatting Antisemitism Award
Dr. Sharona Nazarian accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Combatting Antisemitism on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Dr. Sharona Nazarian, Mayor of Beverly Hills, received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Combatting Antisemitism for her groundbreaking leadership and unwavering commitment to justice, inclusion and human dignity. Born in Iran, she fled religious persecution with her family and came to the United States in search of the American Dream, a dream she now embodies through public service. In 2022, she made history as the first Persian-American woman elected to the Beverly Hills City Council, her victory symbolizing the enduring global cry of Zan, Zendegi, Azadi — Women, Life, Freedom.
As Mayor, Dr. Nazarian has drawn on her background as a Doctor of Clinical Psychology to strengthen Beverly Hills' wraparound services for those in need, while leading with compassion and courage in the face of rising antisemitism. Through her "Never Again Is Now" initiative, she has mobilized faith leaders, local organizations and civic institutions to protect the safety and dignity of every resident. Her efforts, including the creation of the October 7 Memorial, stand as a testament to her belief that remembrance and resilience must go hand in hand.
Distinguished Service in Local Government
Lauren Meister accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Public Service on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
West Hollywood Councilmember Lauren Meister received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Public Service for her decades of dedicated leadership and advocacy in West Hollywood. A longtime neighborhood leader before her election to the City Council in 2015, Councilmember Meister has been a steadfast voice for residents, championing issues from traffic safety to government transparency. During her two terms as Mayor, she strengthened community resilience by expanding the city's emergency preparedness programs, supporting small businesses, advancing housing and homelessness solutions and engaging the next generation of civic leaders.
Her impact extends well beyond city limits. Through her work with the Westside Cities Council of Governments and the Southern California Association of Governments, she has elevated West Hollywood's voice in regional decision-making while standing firm for equality, inclusion and the LGBTQ+ community. A leader of integrity and action, Councilmember Meister has helped make West Hollywood stronger, safer and more connected, true to its legacy as a city built on community and compassion.
Small Business of the Year
Club Tempo received the AD51 Small Business of the Year Award for its decades-long role as a cultural and community cornerstone in East Hollywood. More than a nightclub, Club Tempo is a sanctuary, a place where the LGBTQ+ and Latino communities come together to celebrate identity, joy and belonging. Known for its unique embrace of the vaquero ("cowboy") subculture, Club Tempo brings together cowboy boots, hats and the vibrant sounds of Banda, Norteño and Rancheras in a space defined by freedom and acceptance.
At a time when fear and division have threatened to overshadow progress, Club Tempo stands as a powerful reminder of what community can be: safe, affirming and united in celebration. For generations, it has offered a home to those too often marginalized, proving that small businesses can also be cultural institutions that embody resilience and pride. While no representative could be present to accept the award, the recognition honors all those who have made Club Tempo a beacon for East Hollywood's LGBTQ+ and Latino communities.
Sustainability & Mobility Advocacy Award
Miriam Pinski accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Sustainability and Mobility on behalf of Streets for All on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
Streets for All received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Sustainability & Mobility for its tireless advocacy to make Los Angeles safer, more sustainable and more connected. Led by Michael Schneider and a dedicated team of community advocates, Streets for All has worked to transform how Angelenos move through their city, championing protected bike lanes, improved bus infrastructure, safer pedestrian crossings and accessible streets for all users. Their work is grounded in a vision of mobility that supports not only transit, but also public health, climate action and quality of life.
What truly distinguishes Streets for All is its ability to unite people around shared purpose, neighbors, local leaders and business owners into a powerful coalition for change. Their landmark victory in passing Measure HLA with over 65% of the vote demonstrates that progress happens when communities come together to put people before cars. Miriam Pinski, a member of the Streets for All Steering Committee, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
Community Uplift & Advocacy Award
The Thai Community Development Center Team, including Chanchanit Martorell, accepts the Community Uplift and Advocacy Award on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
The Thai Community Development Center (Thai CDC), led by Executive Director Chanchanit "Chancee" Martorell, received the Community Uplift and Advocacy Award for more than three decades of transformative work advancing economic self-sufficiency, human rights and equity for immigrant and low-income communities. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a decent standard of living, Thai CDC has been a driving force in shaping East Hollywood's identity, from securing the official designation of Thai Town in 1999 to organizing the annual Songkran Festival, which now draws more than 400,000 visitors each year.
Nationally, Thai CDC's legacy includes Chancee's pivotal role in the El Monte Thai Garment Slavery Case, the first major prosecution of modern-day slavery in the United States, which inspired the passage of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. The organization has since supported thousands of trafficking survivors and, in 2022, was honored by President Biden with the Presidential Award for Extraordinary Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons. From delivering over $2 million in pandemic relief to undocumented Angelenos to opening the Center for Health Equity in 2023, Thai CDC continues to serve as a vital anchor for East Hollywood and a national model of compassion, justice and empowerment.
Environmental Protection & Climate Action Award
Wendy-Sue Rosen accepts the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Environmental Protection and Climate Action on Sunday, October 12, 2025. From Left: Wendy-Sue Rosen and Asm. Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood).
Wendy-Sue Rosen received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Environmental Protection and Climate Action for her decades-long leadership in preserving open space, biodiversity, and environmental resilience across Los Angeles and beyond. A lifelong Angeleno and true "force of nature," Wendy has safeguarded hundreds of acres of parkland and protected countless species and habitats through her work with organizations such as the Canyon Back Alliance, Brentwood Residents Coalition, Brentwood Alliance of Canyons and Hillsides, Protect Ballona Wetlands and the State Alliance for Firesafe Road Regulations. Her tireless advocacy has helped keep Los Angeles' natural beauty thriving for generations to come.
Appointed by governors of both parties, Wendy has served on the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Advisory Committee since 2006, shaping conservation policy at the state level. She also co-chairs Climate Action California's Natural Resources Committee and serves on the steering committee for the California Global Biodiversity Alliance, representing California at UN biodiversity conferences in Montreal and Colombia. Whether standing up to powerful interests or inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards, Wendy Rosen embodies courage, persistence and an unwavering commitment to protecting our planet.
Community & Worker Advocacy Award
Asm. Rick Chavez Zbur stands with the AD51 Community Excellence Awardees on Sunday, October 12, 2025. From Left: Asm. Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood); Jason George, Actor & SAG-AFTRA Board Member; Rebecca Rhine, Entertainment Union Coalition President and Directors Guild of America Western Executive Director.
Rebecca Rhine and Jason George received the AD51 Community Excellence Award for Economic Development and Workforce Advocacy for their instrumental leadership in strengthening California's Film & Television Tax Credit Program, a critical effort to keep Hollywood jobs in California. I was proud to partner with Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) and to collaborate with colleagues, workers and studios to strengthen and modernize California's Film and Television Tax Credit Program through our bill, AB 1138, the California TV & Film Jobs Act. Together with the Governor's proposal to expand the program from $330 million to $750 million, this effort will help protect an industry that supports more than 800,000 jobs and $42 billion in wages statewide. The results were immediate: a nearly 400% surge in applications and 22 new productions already approved.
As President of the Entertainment Union Coalition and Western Executive Director of the Directors Guild of America, Rebecca Rhine helped craft the legislation and build the broad coalition needed for success. Jason George, a SAG-AFTRA board member and acclaimed actor, championed the bill in the Capitol and before the public, advocating tirelessly for working people across Hollywood. Their partnership ensured this landmark victory, safeguarding California's creative economy and reaffirming the state's commitment to its defining industry.
Lifetime Achievement Award
John Heilman, City of West Hollywood Vice Mayor, gives a speech accepting the AD51 Lifetime Achievement Award on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
John Heilman received the AD51 Lifetime Achievement Award for his extraordinary four decades of service to the City of West Hollywood and the people of California. First elected to the city's inaugural City Council in 1984, John has served with integrity, intelligence and an unwavering dedication to his constituents. As the nation's longest-serving openly gay elected official, he is not just a policymaker but a pioneer whose leadership helped shape West Hollywood from its founding through decades of growth and progress. During the early and devastating years of the HIV/AIDS crisis, John stood courageously with his community, helping to establish the city's landmark antidiscrimination ordinance, rent stabilization policy and inclusionary housing programs, while ensuring access to vital social services for people living with HIV/AIDS, seniors, immigrants and people with disabilities.
Over the years, John's vision and commitment have made West Hollywood a national model for inclusion, equality and good governance. His leadership has been defined by compassion and principle, always grounded in the belief that government should serve and protect its people. His legacy is written not only in the city's ordinances and institutions but also in the countless lives he has touched. For his courage, integrity and lifetime of service, the Lifetime Achievement Award honors John Heilman, a trailblazer, mentor and friend whose work continues to inspire the next generation of public servants.
From Assemblymember Zbur
Our district thrives because people show up, on fire lines and clinic floors, at city halls and small businesses, on stages and streets. Thank you for all you do.
Please know that my office is always here to serve you. My office is always here to support you at (323) 436-5184.