Espana's Southwest Bar & Grill Monday was the site of this year's installation of officers for the Los Banos Chamber of Commerce.</p><p>A crowd of more than 100 people gathered inside Espana's banquet room, including representatives of Merced County and the city of Los Banos.</p><p>Outgoing President of the chamber of commerce Geneva Brett, in her opening remarks, said it was vital that those present supported one another and the community of Los Banos.</p><p>"[To] say, 'Thank you,'[and] honor the folks who are here to help and give just a little bit extra," Brett said.</p><p>Brett said that the city has had to cut back, much like cities across California, but the chamber has begun to get recognition for its effort to support local businesses.</p><p>"People are starting to buy locally a little bit more," Brett said. "That's helping our schools, that's helping our fire [department] and police, and everyone else."</p><p>Merced County Superior Court Judge Marc A. Garcia swore in all of the incoming directors, including the new president, Rhonda Lowe.</p><p>Lowe, who previously served as president in 2005-2006, addressed the crowd.</p><p>"I would dare to say that no one works harder than the chamber of commerce at promoting local business," Lowe said.</p><p>Lowe said that the sagging economy brought challenges to the chamber of commerce, much like it has for individuals. However, she said, the chamber of commerce came up with a new strategy.</p><p>Lowe said the board of directors would now consist of 22 members with more than 700 years of combined business experience.</p><p>"This encompasses everything from small mom-and-pop stores to an ad-based company that spans the globe," Lowe said.</p><p>Lowe said it is her goal to tap into all of the board's resources, starting with the board of directors.</p><p>The chamber of commerce also presented three awards to members of the community.</p><p>The chamber's Brett received The Wilma Keokuk award for volunteerism, and John Whala, the chamber of commerce's executive director and the night's master of ceremonies, highlighted her work for the recognition of Buffalo Soldiers.</p><p>Whala presented Kagome Inc. with the business of the year award, called The Bill Marchese award.</p><p>And, Troy Thoreson, owner of Thoreson Numismatics, received business person of the year, The Betty Trauba award.</p><p>Enterprise staff writer Thaddeus Miller can be reached at 388-6562 or by e-mail at tmiller@losbanosenterprise.com.