11th Annual Cottonwood Awards Luncheon

The Cottonwood Awards Luncheon is a unique event that honors those who’ve made positive contributions to the city’s cultural and historical resources, including Rancho Los Alamitos. Hosted by the Rancho Los Alamitos Foundation (RLAF), the event helps promote and support the Rancho’s educational programs and cultural preservation efforts. It is a much-anticipated opportunity for Long Beach community and business leaders to gather to enjoy one another’s company, have a traditional ranch-style barbecue lunch, celebrate the year’s honorees, and help raise funds for the
Rancho’s important work. And it all happens in a setting alive with history — the Rancho’s barnyard lawn.

Cottonwood Award for Leadership
The Cottonwood Award recognizes an individual or individuals who have shown significant leadership in enhancing, promoting, and supporting the cultural communities of the Southern California Region.
Recipient: Jerry Miller, Former Long Beach City Manager, Community Leader, and Visionary

Special Recognition for Service and Commitment
Recognizes the outstanding achievements of an individual or organization that has had a significant impact on the cultural development of Rancho Los Alamitos and the City of Long Beach.
Recipient: Craig Torres, Tongva Elder, Cultural History Educator