SACRAMENTO – Senator Ben Allen (D – Santa Monica) has named The Albright as Small Business of the Year for Senate District 26. The Albright, which was chosen for its commitment to sustainability and dedication to the Santa Monica community, received the award at a Sacramento luncheon sponsored by the California Small Business Association on Wednesday, June 19  (see photo below).

“It is my pleasure to recognize Greg Morena, Yunnie Kim Morena, and everyone at The Albright for serving generations of Santa Monicans on the Santa Monica Pier,” Senator Allen said. “They have been trailblazers in sustainability and greening efforts on the Pier and in the greater Santa Monica community by serving sustainable, locally sourced seafood and ingredients. This is a labor of love for the Morena family and they have done a fantastic job bolstering fellow Santa Monica businesses and engendering a sense of respect and social responsibility within the community.”

California Small Business Day 2019 honored 82 small businesses for their contributions to the state’s economy. Small business contributes to 75% of California’s gross domestic product and over half of the state’s private sector jobs. From hardware stores to manufacturers, small businesses are stalwarts of California’s communities and its economy.

The Albright – SM Pier Seafood is a family owned and operated restaurant on the Santa Monica Pier, a local mainstay opened 1977. The modern, relaxed, seaside atmosphere is adored by locals and tourists alike. The Morena family has earned many awards for their small business leadership and community efforts. They established the first sustainable committee under the Santa Monica Pier Lessee's Association to focus on updating and integrating sustainable practices on the Pier. In 2019, spearheaded by their efforts, the collective Pier tenants will divert more than 500,000 pounds of organic waste from landfills.

Owner of The Albright, Greg Morena, said, “Small business is the backbone of our economy. To be recognized by our great state gives me such pride in that our efforts are appreciated. It is with honor that we receive this award on behalf of all our dedicated and passionate staff. Thank you for recognizing The Albright on the Santa Monica Pier as Small Business of the Year!”

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Ben Allen represents California’s 26^th Senate District, which includes the Westside, Hollywood and the South Bay communities of Los Angeles County.

Follow Senator Allen on Twitter: @BenAllenCA; Facebook: www.facebook.com/BenAllenCalifornia; and Instagram: @BenAllenCA.