America's Small Business Summit
This morning, The U.S. Chamber of Commerce honored the 2014 Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners. Elemental Methods was one of only one hundred small businesses selected from a record number of nominated companies. The Blue Ribbon Small Business Awards program recognizes companies for their dedication to the principles of free enterprise and contributions to restoring jobs and supporting economic growth. Each award winner demonstrated exceptional business practices in areas including strategic planning, employee development, community involvement, and customer service. Elemental Methods was one of eight Blue Ribbon Small Business award winners from Irving, Texas.
Michael Christopher and Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
The award was presented at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s annual event—America’s Small Business Summit. The event unites small business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs from across the country to learn, network, and discuss common legislative and management concerns.
Michael Christopher, Managing Director of Elemental Methods, accepted the award from Thomas J. Donohue, President and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Members of the Irving Texas Delegation at the Dream Big Small Business of the Year Awards luncheon include (top row) – Blue Ribbon Winner Adrian De Leon – La Margarita Restaurant, Blue Ribbon Winner Michael Christopher - Elemental Methods, Michael Gonzales – Chairman of the Chamber Board and President of Armstrong Relocation, and Blue Ribbon Winner Steve Wedler and Cary Albert – MATsolutions, (seated) Amir Mirabi – Director of Small Business Office for Governor Rick Perry, Blue Ribbon Winner Chuck and Karen Cooperstein – Cooksey Communications, and Blue Ribbon Winner Kiana and Jo Ann Goin – Glory House Catering.
Capitol Hill Day
During the summit, the Blue Ribbon Small Business Award winners from Irving, Texas participated in meetings on Capitol Hill with Congressmen Kenny Marchant and Marc Veasey, Senator John Cornyn, and Paul Teller (Deputy Chief of Staff for Senator Ted Cruz). In the meetings, the Irving Delegation discussed legislative issues affecting small businesses and the economy in North Texas.
The Irving Delegation with U.S. Congressman Kenny Marchant.
The Irving Delegation with U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey.
The Irving Delegation with U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
The Irving delegation meeting with Paul Teller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Senator Ted Cruz.
Mike Christopher with Amir Mirabi – Director of Small Business Office for Texas Governor Rick Perry.
Summit Speakers
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's America's Small Business Summit also featured speakers representing a broad spectrum of business, political, and community leaders.
General Colin Powell
Steve Case, Chairman and CEO of Revolution, Founder of America Online
Jim VandeHei, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of POLITICO