Farmers & Merchants Bank (F&M) honored several Long Beach residents who exemplify the ideals of integrity and community service at its second annual People You Can Bank On breakfast on June 21. The exclusive event honored local leaders from various walks of life who have had a longstanding impact on both their community and industry.
“We are privileged to serve a diverse community of dedicated civic leaders and philanthropists every day at F&M,” said Daniel K. Walker, chairman of the board and chief executive officer of F&M. “It is truly an honor to recognize these inspirational individuals and pay tribute to their personal commitments to bettering our community.”
The 2012 honorees included:
- Rusty Deeble (Bixby Knolls), the vibrant, young fourth-generation Long Beach entrepreneur and philanthropist behind one of the city’s foremost audio/visual design and installation companies.
- Justin Rudd (Belmont Shore), the founder of local nonprofit Community Action Team, an organization that implements fun events dedicated to promoting youth, education, environment and animal welfare. Founder of Rosie’s Dog Beach, LA County’s only off-leash dog beach.
- Bill and Virgie Barnes (Los Altos), a Long Beach duo who have dedicated themselves to scholarship, service and volunteerism for more than 50 years.
- Donald Chung (Memorial), a Korean War veteran, distinguished physician, published author and dedicated philanthropist who has led an extraordinary life—so extraordinary, in fact, that it was turned into a 50-episode drama for Korean television.
- Ken Buck (East Long Beach), Owner of Joe Jost’s Tavern, where he carries on a 90-year family tradition of serving up cold brews, warm atmosphere and community stewardship.
- Daryl Phillips (Long Beach), the visionary third-generation leader of Phillips Steel Company, a company that has forged a century-long legacy in Long Beach with the values of family, entrepreneurship and service.