Around Town . . . with Robert Airoldi: Chef Pineda honored by Silicon Valley Business Journal

Congratulations to Gilroy Foundation Board member Carlos Pineda who was selected as a recipient of the 2021 Silicon Valley Business Journal “40 Under 40” Award. Honorees were selected based on their contributions to their companies, their role in their industry, the likelihood of them becoming a key leader in their field, and their role in the community.

As a teacher, mentor, collaborator, student, donor, chef, and recipient of awards too numerous to list, he is most deserving of this honor. Carlos oversees food services, the Culinary Academy and Kneaded Bakery at Rebekah Children’s Services which serves disenfranchised youth.

He was recognized Aug. 4 in a virtual event. Way to go, Carlos!

  • •             •

Speaking of honors, Gilroy City Councilmember Dion Bracco, owner of Bracco’s Towing and Transport, will be recognized during the California Tow Truck Association’s Industry Leaders and Awards Night Sept. 17. The ceremony will take place during the American Towman ShowPlace in Las Vegas.

Bracco and Steve Sgarlato of Campbell-based Dick’s Automotive Transport will be inducted into the Rich Chappel Industry Leaders Hall, based on their “positive influence on the towing industry, without thought of recognition,” according to a press release from the CTTA.

“These towing professionals have spent their lives making significant contributions to the industry with unblemished and outstanding character,” the CTTA stated.

Bracco founded his firm in 1992. Named the 2021 Small Business of the Year by the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce, Bracco’s Towing has the equipment to transport passenger cars to large commercial vehicles.

The CTTA represents nearly 600 towing companies within California.

Congratulations, Dion.

  • •             •

Finally, our friends at Operation Freedom Paws are putting on a Wine-der-ful Dog Day Afternoon from 2 to 5 p.m., Aug. 28, at J Winston Winery, 536 Live Oak Ave. Bring your dog for a costume contest! There will be raffle prizes and prizes for the winning costumed dogs. Also, guests can enjoy live music and wine tasting while celebrating National Dog Day. Call (669) 888-3222 for reservations.