Cody Williams - The Ebony Cactus
Transcription
Cody Williams - The Ebony Cactus
GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth Welcome from the Chairman of the Board Welcome to the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce (GPBCC) Eighth Annual Dinner and Business Celebration. The Board of Directors has established this as our major fundraising event of the year. We utilize this occasion to recognize and thank all of you for your support of the GPBCC. in 2006 we saw many changes in the political, social and business climates of both our local and national communities. These changes forced our member businesses to adapt, refocus and determine new strategies. The GPBCC provided our members with many of the tools necessary for their short and long term success. Black-owned businesses are among the fastest-growing segments of the American economy. The number of black-owned businesses grew by 45 percent from 1997 to 2002, more than four times the national rate for all businesses. Revenues from black-owned businesses increased by 25 percent during the same period. However, nearly all black-owned businesses are small. Our challenge as an organization is to help augment and elevate these smaller businesses to the next level. With your continued support we will get there. Please accept my sincere appreciation for your support and may God bless you and your family this holiday season. Have a wonderful evening. Sincerely, Ron Busby, Sr. Ron Busby, Sr. Chairman of the Board Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth President’s Welcome Good evening and welcome to the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce’s 8th Annual Black Chamber Banquet. This past year has been one of great changes and great promise. We have now been in our new headquarters for 2 years and the move has been beneficial for the Chamber and its members. During this past year we said goodbye to a treasured friend and associate, Marquis Scott, whose hard work served the Chamber well for many years. As we look toward 2007, I would like to introduce to you our new team: Edy Blackwell & Pam Washington, our new Business Developers, LaTanya Jones is our new Events and Communications Officer and as always Teresa Walker is our Office Manager. This year we have also welcomed many new members to our fold. Their energy and enthusiasm coupled with the faith and support given us by our long standing members helps to make the GPBCC what it is. This past year has been one of great change not only for our Metropolitan area, but for the State of Arizona as well. Strategic pieces of legislation and successful bond elections throughout the State have our political and community leaders exploding with excitement. They are also committing themselves and their organizations to diversifying their vending and subcontracting bases. Greater Phoenix is advancing into the 21st century with leaps and bounds. However, with these tremendous changes, it is no longer enough for members of the GPBCC or Black-owned Businesses as a whole to only seek inclusion. Greater Phoenix Black Chamber member businesses have the opportunity to sit at the decision making table where the agenda for future economic direction will be set. Our goal is to join the leadership of the Valley in its efforts, not simply to follow their lead. It is therefore, our commitment to our members and the Greater Phoenix community to be visible in all areas of business and economics. Tonight is also a night to thank our volunteers, our in-kind and our various financial contributors who have been the wind beneath our wings. Without you, our growth and service level improvements could not have been achieved. Finally, we say thank you for the love and support that you and others have shown the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce. In the world of non-profits, each month is an adventure. We often get caught up asking ourselves, "Will there be enough to make it through?" But it is because of the friends of this Chamber that we have not simply survived, instead, for eight years we've lived to fight another day and we've ended up doing some pretty good things along the way. On behalf of my staff, our volunteers, and our creative and hard working Board of Director members, I say welcome to our 8th Annual Dinner. I truly hope you enjoy yourselves. Tonight we look back and appreciate. Tomorrow we set out to make 2007 our best year ever! May God bless you and keep you. Sincerely, Cody Williams President and CEO Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 8th Annual GPBCC Dinner and Business Celebration Theme: The Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce, Poised and Ready for Growth December 7, 2006 Ritz Carlton Hotel, Phoenix 5:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m. Reception and Raffle Dinner and Program Welcome/Introduction Cody Williams President and CEO GPBCC National Anthem Briana Scott Lift Every Voice and Sing Briana Scott Invocation Bishop Alexis A. Thomas Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Words of Encouragement from Honored Guests Recognition of Sponsors Dinner Music by “Instrumental” Introduction of Speaker Ron Busby Sr. - Chairman GPBCC Board of Directors Keynote Speaker Attorney Thomas Todd Raffle Winners Announced Awards Ceremony: Community Advocate of the Year Member Business of the Year Corporate Member of the Year State of Black Business Address Cody Williams President and CEO GPBCC Closing Remarks Ron Busby, Sr. - Chairman GPBCC Board of Directors Benediction GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth Letter from your Arizona Lottery ~ Platinum Sponsor ~ The Arizona Lottery is proud to support the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce as the Platinum Sponsor of the 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration. We salute your drive and entrepreneurial spirit – a spirit that is strongly supported by Governor Janet Napolitano and the Arizona Lottery. As business women and men, your efforts strengthen the quality of life in our state. And we’re glad to partner with you in that endeavor. In fiscal year 2006, we broke all previous records, generating an all-time high of $468 million in sales, which meant more than $141 million to help fund programs and projects that make Arizona an even better place to live: • • • • • • Education Health care for rural and underserved communities Economic development grant programs Transportation services for seniors and disabled persons Parks and recreation Wildlife conservation and historic preservation Over the past 25 years, your Arizona Lottery has contributed nearly $2 billion to programs and communities all across the state. And we’re already looking forward to our next 25 years. As you celebrate tonight, we congratulate you on your leadership and service – the very excellence that enriches Arizona. Sincerely, Art Macias Art Macias Executive Director GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Jon Kyl, United State Senator, Arizona Congratulations on the 8th Annual Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce Dinner and Business Celebration. While I am unable to attend the dinner and celebration tonight, I want to send my best wishes to all of you involved. You should be very proud of your accomplishments. Your important work to promote economic empowerment among minorities in the Phoenix business community is invaluable. I'd also like to congratulate President and CEO Cody Williams for his leadership. As a former president of the Phoenix Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, I know the tremendous amount of responsibilities and hard work involved. Cody has set a fine example for others in Arizona. Again, congratulations and best wishes in all of your future endeavors. Sincerely, Jon Kyl Jon Kyl United States Senator GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Janet Napolitano Governor State of Arizona GREETINGS: As Governor of the Great State of Arizona, I wish to extend my congratulations to the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce on the occasion of its 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration. Arizona values its African American entrepreneurs and those major corporation that see the wisdom and value in a diverse supplier base. Small business is the lifeblood of our State and their entrepreneurial spirit drives our society. As we move into this new knowledge economy, African American owned businesses will play a pivotal role. Thank you for your contribution an congratulations on the 2006 awards dinner. Yours very truly, Janet Napolitano Janet Napolitano Governor GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Leah Landrum Taylor Arizona State Senator Elect-District 16 Greeting! As your newly elected Senator for the State of Arizona District 16, it is a pleasure for me to support those that lead the way. Your theme this year “Poised and Ready for Growth “says it all. It is a great theme to start off a new year, with newly elected support from the African American Community in the House of Representatives and the Arizona State Senate. We have left the trenches of the past behind us. We have the goals to improve and the recipe for success. Looking ahead it takes a good deal of optimism and will power to assert ourselves in all the jobs dedicated to the benefit of others in the face of opposition and adversity. People who want to change things have no intention of taking the easy way out. That’s why The Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce is” Poised and Ready for Growth.” Many people will benefit from the work of the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce with their unshakable idealism, commitment and confidence to help move the economy of Phoenix into the 21th Century. This is a celebration of the commitment, a celebration of the promise of being, “Poised and Ready for Growth." We salute you Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce. Sincerely, Leah Landrum Taylor House of Representatives Representatives Leah Landrum Taylor District 16 602 926-5864 GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Cloves C. Campbell, Jr. Arizona State Representative Elect District 16 Welcome and thank you to everyone for taking the time to recognize the hard work and accomplishments of the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber. As the Metropolitan Phoenix area continues to grow, the importance of an active Black Chamber is essential for the development of African-American business. It is with great pride that I salute the Chamber and its’ honorees tonight. I wish you continued success on all your future endeavors. Sincerely Cloves C. Campbell, Jr. CLOVES C. CAMPBELL, JR. State Representative GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Mary Rose Wilcox Maricopa County Board of Supervisors The Annual Dinner and Business Celebration affords an opportunity to gather and share in the successes of the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce. The information, leadership and advocacy provided by the GPBCC is invaluable. Kudos to the organization for its fine work in our community. The President and CEO, Cody Williams, is an asset to the GPBCC. With his background as a former Phoenix City Council member, Williams is a savvy leader who knows government as well as the community. He has the knowledge and skills to carry the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce forward. Congratulations to the recipients of the Outstanding GPBCC Business of the Year and the Community Advocate of the Year awards. These recognitions reflect the collective success of the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce. Sincere best wishes, Mary Rose Wilcox Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, District 5 GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth OFFICE OF THE MAYOR A Message from the Honorable Phil Gordon Mayor Phoenix, Arizona As Mayor, I welcome you to the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration. The Black Chamber of Commerce assists our local economy by exhibiting business in action. The City of Phoenix supports diverse business practices because it aligns with our vision and mission and is mutually beneficial for everyone. I would like to thank all the corporate members for supporting and practicing diversity. I would also like to congratulate all our nominees. You have exemplified the best in business and community advocacy. You have my very best wishes for continued success. Sincerely. Phil Gordon Phil Gordon Mayor GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Hugh Hallman Mayor Tempe, Arizona Welcome to the 8th Annual Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce Dinner and Business Celebration! It is my honor and pleasure to welcome you on behalf of the City of Tempe. Our sincere thanks go to the volunteers and professional staffers who make the GBCC event so successful year after year. The City of Tempe highly values relationships with minority businesses and sends heartfelt congratulations to all the outstanding GPBCC 2006 Business of the Community Advocate of the Year Award nominees. Best wishes for the New Year! Hugh Hallman Hugh Hallman Mayor Tempe Arizona GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth A Message from the Honorable Michael Johnson Phoenix City Council District 8 To the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce and President/CEO, Cody Williams, Chairman, Ron Busby, the Board of Directors and Staff, I am honored to offer these words of congratulations to you and to all of the award nominees and recipients on behalf of the District 8 City Council Office of Phoenix, Arizona. For your dedication and commitment to uplifting the state of our community over the years, and for all of your vast charitable deeds, I applaud you and say thank you. Many, many people continually witness and benefit from the varied contributions made by your organization. Your leadership and direction coupled with your tireless efforts of service are greatly appreciated and valued. So again, thank you, and know that we will continue to support you in your endeavors toward a better and brighter city. Sincerely, Michael E. Johnson Michael E. Johnson City Council - District 8 GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth Keynote Speaker: Attorney Thomas N. Todd An activist attorney widely known as TNT for his oratorical skills, Thomas N. Todd was born on September 24, 1938, in Demopolis, Alabama. His father died shortly thereafter, so his mother, and eventually a stepfather, raised Todd in Mobile, Alabama. The family was poor, but Todd, a large youth with a rich voice, nevertheless became a leader in school activities. He graduated early from Central high School in Mobile in 1955 and enrolled that same year at Southern University at Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Though he considered dropping out of college after his mother died in 1958, he remained and received a B.A. in Political Science in 1959. Todd continued through Southern University’s School of Law, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1963. Todd served as a lawyer in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1967 and joined the staff of the U.S. Attorney’s office in Chicago in 1967. In this capacity, Todd made history in 1968 when he developed the first criminal case against a Chicago policeman for deprivation of an individual’s civil rights. Todd organized and established the first Civil Rights Office in a local U.S. Attorney Office in 1969. Todd was the first full-time African American law professor at Northwestern University in Illinois, where he taught from 1970 to 1974. Todd has been admitted to practice law before many courts, including the Louisiana Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Military Appeals, the Illinois Supreme Court and the U.s. Supreme Court. A powerful spokesman for civil rights, Todd was president of the Chicago Chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1971 and President of Operation PUSH from 1983 to 1984. During the Harold Washington mayoral campaigns of 1983 and 1987, Todd’s oratory was often used to warm up the crowd prior to Washington’s arrival. Semi-retired and the recipient of more than 500 awards and honorary degrees, Todd is one of the most electrifying commencement speakers on black college campuses. He and his wife, Janis, and two daughters live in Chicago, Illinois. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 2006 Board of Directors Ron Busby – Chairman GPBCC Board of Directors. American Janitorial Services, Inc. 6991 East Camelback Road Suite B225 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 941-8180 Office (480) 941-8182 FAX [email protected] Cody Williams – President/CEO GPBCC. 201 East Washington Street Ste 350 Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 307-5200 Office (602) 307-5204 FAX cody @phoenixblackchamber.com Luke Holton Desert Sky Software, Inc. 103 W. Highland Ave. Suite 100 Phoenix, AZ 85013 (602) 279-4600 Office (602) 279-4768 FAX [email protected] Morrison E. Warren JP Morgan Chase Arizona. Scottsdale Business Banking 4031 North Scottsdale Rd., 30th Floor Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (480) 970-7028 Office Morrison_Warren @chase.com Dr. Kenneth Atwater South Mountain Community College 7050 South 24th Street Phoenix, AZ 85042 (602) 243-8150 Office (602) 243-8329 FAX ken.atwater@smc mail.maricopa.edu Rod Lasley Arizona Public Service P.O. Box 53999 Mail Station 8370 Phoenix, AZ 85072-3999 (602) 250-3120 Office (602) 250-3873 FAX [email protected] Gerald Richard Phoenix Police Department 620 W Washington Street Phoenix, AZ 85003 602) 262-6080 (602) 495-0356 FAX gerald.p.richard @phoenix.gov Dr. Mernoy Harrison Arizona State University at the Downtown Campus PO Box 872303 Tempe, AZ 85287-2303 (480) 965-3201 Office (480) 965-8388 FAX [email protected] Diana Gregory Anheuser-Busch, Inc 2737 East Arizona Biltmore Circle Suite 27 Phoenix, AZ 85016 (602) 952-8978 Office (602) 926-2748 FAX [email protected] Sylvia McDowell REMAX Fine Properties 8901 East Mountain View Road Suite 201 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (480) 922-1200 Office (480) 922-1225 FAX [email protected] Angela Phoenix VIAD. 1850 North Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85077-0852 (602) 207-5608 Office (602) 207-5900 FAX [email protected] Bishop Alexis A. Thomas Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church 1401 East Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 258-0831 Office (602) 258-0840 FAX [email protected] Garry Walters Southwest Gas 10851 North Black Canyon Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85029-4755 (602) 395-4703 Office (602) 861-3361 FAX [email protected] Peter Hemingway Wood/Patel 2051 W. Northern Ave. Suite 100 Phoenix, AZ 85021 (602) 335-8500 Office (602) 544-9509 FAX [email protected] Former GPBCC Presidents/CEO's Denise Meredith - 1999 Bruce Mosby - 2000 Sylvia J. Palms - 2001 GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth Acknowledging our Members and Sponsors Platinum Dinner Sponsor New Members • • Ballman Ballshades by MFAS Marketing & Associates • Building Maintenance Services Silver Dinner Sponsors • City of Glendale • • • C. Payne & Consulting Training, LLC Bronze Sponsors • General Dynamics c4 Systems • • • • • • Greater Phoenix Youth at Risk Foundation, Inc. • Jobing.com, LLC • The Fairworthy Institute Corporate Supporters • Gust Rosenfeld • • Mary Kay Cosmetics • Outback Steak House • HDR/S.R. Beard & Associates • Newman Tucker Group, Inc. • Western & Southern Financial • First National Bank Arizona State Lottery Diamond Dinner Sponsor • • • • • • • • • SCF of Arizona, Inc. City of Phoenix Aviation Qwest Waste Management Phoenix Police Department MD Classy Cars Desert Sky Software USAA Phoenix Campus American Express Travel Related Services Anheuser-Busch, Inc ASU Desert Sky Software Salt River Project Southwest Gas Maricopa County Community College District Pilgrim Rest U. S. Bank Corporate Anchors • • • Arizona Public Service Blue Cross Blue Shield Wells Fargo GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Community Advocate of the Year Winner Johnnie Funderburg City of Phoenix Aviation Division Growing up in Kentucky, Johnnie Funderburg was exposed to the world of business by working in her family’s businesses including: Construction, Trucking, Rentals, Sales, and a Entertainment/Production Company. In 2000, she was recruited to the valley by a large Wire and Cable Communication Manufacturing Corporate Company. In January of 2006, Johnnie Funderburg joined the City of Phoenix Aviation Division as the Outreach Project Manager. Johnnie is actively engaged in promoting the Minority, Woman-Owned, Disadvantaged and Small Business Program at Sky Harbor International Airport. She collaborates with the local community by hosting workshops, seminars, and participates in tradeshows to encourage partnerships with construction companies, concessionaires, and vendors. Prior to working for the City of Phoenix Aviation Division, Johnnie was the Outreach Program Manager at Maricopa County Public Works Department where she was instrumental in coordinating the County’s Parity Partner Forums with professional organizations, and community groups to facilitate the County’s Minority Business Development Program. Johnnie Funderburg received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration from Faulkner University and her Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix. She worked many years in the corporate environment as a Senior Supply Chain and Global Project Manager. She has held various executive-level management positions. Her technical training includes: Total Quality Facilitator Certification, Lean Manufacturing Principles, Six-Sigma Black Belt Training, and Green Belt Certification. She has traveled extensively throughout Europe and the Far East managing various corporate projects and start-up operations. Johnnie’s is affiliated with several diverse organizations including, the local Chambers and Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council Board. Her philosophy evolves around the 3P’s Passion, Persistence, and Patience. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Community Advocate of the Year Nominee Milagros “Millie” Gonzalez-Scott United Latino Business Coalition Milagros “Millie” Gonzalez-Scott is co-owner of The Scott Business Group, the current Acting Chairperson of the United Latino Business Coalition (ULBC) and Secretary of the Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council (GCMSDC) Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee (MBEIC). Millie is originally from the Dominican Republic and has resided in Arizona since 1989. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University, and is a Certified Project Manager. Millie has over 25 years of engineering, information technology, and staffing experience. As a reflection of that experience, she was nominated Supplier of the Year at American Express Corporation after only one year in a staff supplier relationship, while managing an, IT Staffing branch for an MBE. As the Chairperson for the ULBC, Millie has had exceptional success in promoting and fulfilling the mission of the organization, which is to develop and foster positive relationships with community, government and business organizations. She is recognized as an avid promoter of minority’s business owners in an effort to increase their vendor supplier opportunities. Her commitment and dedication in this regard has resulted in more opportunities for the ULBC membership since its inception. Millie is passionate about her advocacy, and the community truly appreciates her resolve. Millie has been recognized by; MEDWeek, Advocate of the year in 2004 and Small Business, Advocate of the year in 2003 by the ULBC. She has partnered and worked with diverse groups from the business community, Black, Hispanic Chambers, Native American organizations, NAWBO, GCMSDC, and others to bring about procurement change, within municipal, county and state governments. Millie has been an active participant on a number of committees and boards (i.e. METRO Outreach Committee, APS Diversity Advisory Committee, Perini Diversity Outreach Committee, ULBC/GCMSDC. In addition, Millie has participated and organized committees to bring about changes in the business community. Her involvement, by activism standards has been well above and beyond the call of duty. This has not deterred her from spending the time necessary to organize and implement action plans to facilitate positive business outcomes that benefit, minority own businesses. Millie, in conjunction with others has worked with the Governor’s Office through a committee process to improve supplier diversity, to establish an accountable and verifiable process for State Procurement. She has participated on panels to educate buyers and procurement officers representing different agencies. Under her leadership, the ULBC, was instrumental in convincing APS to modify their method of procurement allocation and improve business opportunities for minorities own businesses. Her tenacity, direct and focused approached has at times made some decision makers, feel uncomfortable. However, the business community at large has come to respect her commitment and motivation. She is seen as a true champion and a positive force that has made a significant difference in the lives of people in the Valley of the Sun and other parts of Arizona. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Community Advocate of the Year Nominee Santos J. Rodriguez Arizona Department of Economic Security Santos J. Rodriguez, was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico and came to the US Mainland at the age of 10. He grew up in South Bronx, New York. and came to Arizona at the age of 17. Just before his 18th birthday, Santos joined the Marines and served three tours in Viet-Nam as a “recon man.” After 4 years in the Marines, he enlisted in the US Air Force and was stationed at Williams AFB, Chandler AZ. As part of his duties in the Air Force he worked on the space shuttle and other highly advanced vehicles. He retired from DavisMonthan AFB, Tucson as a certified master aircraft technician/inspector that can repair any aircraft. A world traveler, Santos is a life member of the American Veterans Post 15, and member of the American Legion Post 65. He graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelors Degree in Business Management and Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. Santos is currently employed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security as an employment service coordinator. Though this position he has the opportunity to work with the minority business community including the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce. He the father of two daughters, Celestia and Belen and has two grandchildren. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Business of the Year Nominee Jo Ann M. Calvin Independent Sales Director, Mary Kay Jo Ann M. Calvin is an Independent Sales Director with Mary Kay. She began her work with the company in the year 2000 as a Independent Sales Consultant and rapidly rose to the rank of Sales Director by December of 2002. Within Mary Kay Jo Ann is an achiever. Within the team she directs, she has lead sales increases of 68% over previous years. For this and other achievement out of 65 other units, they were named most improved in National Area in 2005-2006. Her sales unit is currently ranked number 5 amongst the 65 directors in the area and they are also the number 2 most improved unit in the State of Arizona. Jo Ann’s sales success has earned her a number of awards and recognitions including: • • • 4 Mary Kay Cars (Currently driving a Cadillac) Awarded Rookie Sales Director of the Near in Nation Area 2004 Company Sales Incentive based awards including: 16 Quarters of Star status, 9 Gold Medals, 6 Silver Medals and 12 Bronze Medals. Beyond her business achievements, she is the proud wife to Phillip, mother to LaTosha, Phillip Jr, Scott and Tyler, and grandmother to Eric. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Business of the Year Nominee Bridget Williams BridgeKey Catering Bridget Williams (Co-Owner & Caterer of BridgeKey Catering, LLC) Native of Arizona, Bridget is married to jazz saxophonist Keyan Williams and has one son (17) who is a senior at Mt. Pointe High School. She has 23 years of Corporate Management experience in Information Technology. Over the course of 23 years, Bridget completed her Bachelors Degree in Management, as well as several certification programs in Project/Program Management, Situational Leadership, Business Travel, and in Culinary. Her all time quote for any given day: "Find the Good". It’s all around you. Find it, showcase it and you’ll start believing in it. And so will most of the people who come into contact with you.” – JESSIE OWENS In June of 2004, during her exotic honeymoon with husband, the thought of entrepreneurship entered the couples mind. Bridget loves to cook, and gets the most enjoyment from others eating her food. She quotes: "I love to eat too, but there’s nothing like the enjoyment from others approaching me after eating one of my meals wanting more". Her husband Keyan loves to play his music, and what better combination she says, my cooking and my husbands music. From this conversation, BridgeKey Catering materialized. A catering company specializing in home cooking with a flare, their motto being "Bridging Class with Jazz". Bridgekey caters for many functions, small to large, from weddings, birthday parties, corporate functions, to quinceaneras. One of her favorite memories from a catering events is when a 9year-old girl approached her at a wedding and said; “those potatoes are good, any way that I can sneak an extra plate?” She laughed and piled and it on. Bridget certainly has her hands full, from taking care of the catering business, keeping up with a very busy teenager, and managing her husband’s music career with their second company Told U So Production, LLC. Bridget understands the complexity of maintaining balance between business and family. One of her more difficult experiences with starting the company was missing one of her son’s football games. Bridget says; "You know the older our kids become, the more important it is to be there for them, and I knew just how important that was to him, but I had to make a very difficult decision. My son understood but I had a difficult time with it". The outcome of that experience however, brought them closer because her son could relate to the meaning of sacrifice. Bridget is blessed to have in her circle, her maternal and paternal grandmothers, both of her parents, one sister, three brothers, 2 nieces, and three nephews. "I could not do this without my family. Outside of my husband and son, as they are for sure my support cushion. My mother and sister have been a tremendous blessing to me, and I know they will always be there for me, good or bad". GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Business of the Year Winner Dr. Duane Wooten Rainbow Pediatrics. Duane M. Wooten M.D. ,P.C, was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. He is married with one child. He attended Maryvale High school, as well as University of Phoenix for is Doctor of Medicine degree and Northwestern University where he completed a degree in Chemical Engineering. As a native, Dr. Wooten has established great alliances, friendships and business associates. In December, 1989 Dr. Wooten opened his private practice, Rainbow Pediatrics. To date, Dr. Wooten as 11,000 active patients in one of his three offices who all receive individualized attention and care. Dr. Wooten owns MD Classy Cars, a service and repair company for foreign and domestic automobiles. Purchased in 1998 and more than 30 years old, it is one of the oldest Mercedes Benz repair shops in Phoenix. In his spare time, if there is such a thing, Dr. Wooten has been a member of the Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Phoenix since 1993, he collects classic cars, and does his own office refurbishing as he did for ABE Magazine whose offices were on his property. As a business owner, Dr. Wooten reflects on God and perseverance. Without his belief and faith, he claims, he would have failed long ago. A man who let’s nothing take away his joy, he continues to be of service in the community through Mothers Against Gangs, and his H.O.P.E. Scholarship Fund where to date, Dr. Wooten has awarded 85, 4-year scholarships and consistently helps others however needed. His awards include: The Maricopa Medical Society Community Service Physician of the Year award in 1998, the Arizona Sickle Cell Anemia Society Community Service Award in 1995, The NAACP Maricopa County Chapter Image Award of Medicine in 1994, and the University of Arizona College of Medicine Research Award in 1983. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Corporate Member of the Year Nominee Anheuser-Busch At Anheuser-Busch, we take our role as a corporate citizen seriously. Whether it is through supporting community groups across the U.S., protecting the environment, observing the highest ethical standards in all our business dealings, a commitment to diversity in our hiring, or promoting the responsible use of our products by adults, Anheuser-Busch has always believed that doing good by the public and doing well as a company go handin-hand. Locally, the company has partnered with the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce and supported numerous programs for it’s members over the last two years. Anheuser-Busch supports various charitable organizations on an annual basis in the Greater Phoenix area. Based in St. Louis, Anheuser-Busch is the leading American brewer. The company brews the world's largest-selling beers, Budweiser® and Bud Light®. Anheuser-Busch ranked No. 1 among beverage companies in FORTUNE Magazine's Most Admired U.S. and Global Companies lists in 2006. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Corporate Member of the Year Winner Blue Cross Blue Shield Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona is a local, independent and not-for profit health insurance company headquartered in Phoenix. Founded in 1939, the company has more than 1,500 dedicated employees throughout Arizona. The company delivers health insurance products, services and networks to more than 1.1 million individuals, making Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona the largest locally based insurance company in Arizona. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona is actively involved in the community and proudly supports hundreds of worthwhile charities and organizations through volunteering and contributions. For information about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, visit www.azblue.com. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth 2006 Corporate Member of the Year Nominee Southwest Gas Southwest Gas Corporation opened for business 75 years ago as a virtually unknown little company in Barstow, California. 1931 was not a promising time to begin a business. But Southwest Gas became one of America’s many success stories. The company expanded to parts of Arizona in the ’50s, and to Phoenix in 1984. In recent years, Southwest Gas has been one of the fastestgrowing natural gas distribution companies in the nation, and serves more than 1.7 million customers in Arizona, Nevada and California. Going hand-in-hand with adding customers, is maintaining a safe and reliable gas system and providing great customer service. It’s a credit to Southwest Gas employees that they’ve been able to continue to do so while dealing with the demands of growth. Additionally, the company has a long history of support for the communities it serves. Locally, Southwest and its Phoenix-area employees are involved in a variety of community efforts. The company’s charitable foundation contributes to nonprofit agencies, while the Volunteer Team takes on several projects a year, including home fixups, sorting supplies at food banks and cleaning up parks. During its day to day business, the company actively promotes a Supplier Diversity Program to ensure that minority businesses are equally included in the base of suppliers with whom it does business. The company has an extensive outreach program and continually seeks to identify minority business owners to provide quality goods and services at competitive prices. GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth Special Thanks The Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce wishes to acknowledge and thank all of the people who helped to make this banquet possible including: The GPBCC Staff and Volunteers Event Coordination Winzal Hines Airport Limousine Guest Transportation Ebony Cactus Magazine and Professional Services Program Design-Ad Design-Podcasts-News Releases-Internet Marketing 51st Ave Sign-O-Rama Signs and Banners Anthony McDonald: B4C M&A Photography Taylor Made Promotions Awards Salt River Project Printing Instrumental Music GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth Notes and Business Contacts GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth GPBCC 8th Annual Dinner and Business Celebration: GPBCC Poised and Ready for Growth