BIZ BITES

Downey Savings, a Newport Beach-based company with 172 locations in California and Arizona, will be the official bank sponsor of the 2008 Orange County Marathon, officials announced last week.

The bank will provide financial support for the fourth annual race, which raises funds for children’s charities around Orange County, and also encourage its employees to volunteer or run in the event. The marathon is scheduled to take place in Newport Beach and Irvine Jan. 6.

Newmeyer & Dillion LLP, a Newport Beach firm that employs more than 50 lawyers, was honored this month by the Building Industry Assn. of Southern California’s Orange County chapter for its involvement in the community.

The firm, which was founded 22 years ago and operates a second office in Walnut Creek, won the “Most Involved Associate Member Company” award at a Sept. 10 ceremony at the Irvine Marriott. The Spotlight Awards, which honor individuals and companies in 10 categories, are based on nominations by Building Industry Assn. members and finalized by a panel of five judges.

Newmeyer & Dillion provides legal services in business, real estate and financial services. The firm led the Orange County chapter’s membership drive this year, and its members have spoken on a number of educational panels.

“As members for nearly 20 years, our firm is a believer in BIA’s goals on behalf of the building industry here in Orange County,” partner Mark Himmelstein said in a release. “We are proud to be recognized by our peers for our contributions from among so many dedicated member companies.”

— Michael Miller