The 2003 Small Business Awards Luncheon has a special meaning this year: it’s the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Small Business Administration. “So nationally and locally, we want to recognize the fact that this federal agency, along with its partners, has been an asset to small businesses in many ways for 50 years,” says George Chandler, district director of the Small Business Administration, San Diego District. “We want to take this opportunity to thank all the people who have helped us and who have been recipients of our assistance.”

The SBA Awards luncheon, co-hosted by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, will begin at 10:30 a.m. June 9 at San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina. Awards will be presented from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Tickets are $65 in advance and $90 at the door. A table of 10 costs $600 and patron table sponsorships are available at $950. For information, call (619) 544-1335 or click on www.sdchamber.org.