ted_white.jpgWEST PALM BEACH – The Black Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County hosted its annual Ascension Awards Luncheon at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd. in West Palm Beach.

The event convenes the community to honor businesses and individuals who have ascended to greatness in their respective professions.

The award categories are Nonprofit/Public Organization of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Emerging Business Leader, and Zenith.

The master of ceremonies is local reporter Ted White. This year’s keynote speaker is Rick Caldwell, owner of RCultures Inc., a consulting firm that provides corporate training on cultural diversity, prevention of sexual harassment, customer service and team building. Caldwell is known in the community for creating opportunities and “Changing lives one heart at a time.”

The 2013 Ascension Award finalists include:

Nonprofit/Public Organization of the Year – presented to a nonprofit organization or public business organization that resources, supports, advocates, educates or provides social services primarily to black and minority communities within Palm Beach County.

• MLK Coordinating Committee, Edith C. Bush, ED
• Orthodox Zion Primitive Baptist Church, West Palm Beach, James Hubert Chester, pastor
Small Business of the Year – presented to a business with 10 or fewer employees that exemplifies excellence in business operations, growth and community involvement within the county.
• Bryan Boysaw & Associates, PA
• Chandler Campbelle & Daschle, Darrell Searcy, principal
Large Business of the Year – presented to a business with more than 10 employees that exemplifies excellence in business operations, growth and community involvement within the county.
• Best Protective Services, Robert Best, CEO
• D. Stephenson Construction, Dwight Stephenson, CEO
Emerging Business Leader Award – presented to a young professional (under 40 years of age) who has demonstrated outstanding success in their chosen career fields, as well as their commitment and contribution to the community.
• Bradley Harper, Blueprint Leadership Project
• James Taylor, Taylored Athletes, Inc.
Zenith Award – the highest honor of the Ascension Awards, presented to an individual who has demonstrated consistent success, not only in the growth and maintenance of his/her business, but also in making a difference in the lives of others and making a positive impact on residents of Palm Beach County.
• Derrick Berry, owner, Buccaneer/The Good Pirates
• Yolette Bonnet, CEO, Found Care Health Center.