Long Branch Chamber Of Commerce Announces Libutti Award Winners

LONG BRANCH, NJ – The Greater Long Branch Chamber of Commerce recently announced the latest recipients of the Louis G. Libutti Community Service Award, which was established in 1970 in honor of Louis G. Libutti, who was a former president of the Long Branch Chamber and is given to those who show exemplary leadership, outstanding professional achievement, and community service

Receiving the prestigious Libutti Award this year are Esther Cohen, Managing Partner of Cedars & Beeches Inn, and Tonya Garcia, Director of the Long Branch Free Public Library.

As a member of the Chamber, Cohen created a marketing committee, and as second vice-president, she continues to serve on various committees, including co-chairing the Oceanfest committee. During this time, Cohen also served on the city’s planning board.

Garcia, who has been director of the city’s Public Library since 2013, has been responsible for creating innovative programs and services such as the Community Connections Social Work Initiative, Fade to Books Barbershop Literacy Program, the Back to Work Initiative, resulting in the establishment of Technology and Career Center, workforce development services, a virtual career center and the nationally recognized Fresh Start Re-Entry service, which is now being used as a model for a statewide program.

Garcia has also developed the library’s Diversity Initiative resulting in the establishment of literacy classes, teen services, and diversity programming and policies.