Independent Staff Report
WEST HOLLYWOOD — David Cooley, owner of the Abbey and the Chapel, was honored with the Legacy Award by the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Nov. 17 at the 37th annual West Hollywood Creative Business Awards.
Cooley has been involved in West Hollywood for three decades. In 1991 he invested in a small space in that he renovated into a coffeehouse called the Abbey. 30 years and five expansions, the Abbey and the adjacent venue, the Chapel, now occupy more than 20,000 square feet.
Also honored at the banquet trophies were Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant for Creative Concept. Pendry West Hollywood and Rocco’s WeHo received the Corporate Innovation award.
The John Chase Art & Design Award went to Soulmate, and We Know WeHo Podcast received the Creative Communications Award win.
La Bohème was honored as the most popular WeHo attraction, Global Green received the Innovative Sustainability award and the philanthropic efforts of Keith Kaplan and Mylena Christina of Sotheby’s International Realty were honored for their creative community service.
The surprise of the evening was when chamber Chair Nick Rimedio, presented an additional award to Genevieve Morrill, president and CEO of the chamber for her unwavering service to the business community during the COVID pandemic.
“The pandemic truly has been a crisis unlike any other seen in past generations,” Rimedio said. “Through it all, the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has shown an unshakeable commitment to advocating for the protection of businesses and employees alike which was fueled by Gen’s boundless energy and determination.
“She inspired the creation of our new Hero Award and will undoubtedly become the model for future winners who are selflessly dedicated to their community and the businesses for whom they serve,” he added.
The Creative Business Awards is the most important fundraiser of the year for the chamber. Funds raised help contribute to programming and promotions for the business community in the city.
