DEARBORN, Michigan – The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce asks the business community to “brace” itself for its business awards and expo. B.R.A.C.E 2013 (Business Recognition Awards Ceremony & Expo), Friday, April 19, 2013, 11 am – 2 pm, at the Henry, an Autograph Collection Hotel in Dearborn. This event, sponsored by Ford Land, combines effective networking, business appreciation and an expo showcasing over 35 businesses.
This year the Chamber will honor Severstal North America as Business of the Year. As one of the largest steel producers in the United States – with facilities in Dearborn, Michigan and Columbus, Mississippi – responsible corporate citizenship is a key business priority. The company has invested over $3 billion in modernizing its assets and has some of the most efficient and environmentally friendly steelmaking facilities in the world. Charitable donations and employee volunteer activities are focused in the local communities in several key areas, including community enrichment and education, arts and culture, and environment. Severstal North America is a wholly-owned subsidiary of OAO Severstal, one of the world’s largest steel and mining companies.
Lynne Killion – talking with Alan Mulally of Ford Motor Co. – (Facebook photo dated March 2010)
The Leadership Award will be presented to Lynne Killion, proprietor of PostNet. Lynne Killion owns the neighborhood business center — which offers the business community of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights printing services, color copies and finishing services — with husband Don. They have been residents of Dearborn Heights for 36 years. Lynne serves on the executive committee of the Dearborn Area Chamber and has been active in several veterans’ initiatives including Hiring Our Heroes and the committee to bring the Vietnam Wall toDearborn. The Killions are active in the Dearborn Heights Rotary, as well as the Kiwanis Club of Dearborn Heights.
Westborn Market will receive the Small Business Award. Westborn Market has served the people of Southeastern Michigan for almost half a century. What was originally a corner fruit stand has grown into an International Marketplace. Today, the store reflects a unique combination of the freshest produce, choice meats, gourmet groceries, flowers and a huge wine selection. The store offers an extensive list of services, including party trays, catering, fruit baskets, full floral design, and delivery services. The market is committed to its support of local farmers, purchasing much of its produce locally. The food store also hosted a successful Meet Michigan Again event to promote Michigan-made products.
The luncheon will also honor a forward-thinking unique business model that breaks traditional molds with its Innovator of the Year. Past awardees have included TechShop, The Henry Ford Makers Faire, Hype Athletics and Severstal North America.
The B.R.A.C.E. event connects and showcases organizations in the Dearborn community. The luncheon, including a video component spotlighting each awardee, will also highlight businesses celebrating milestone anniversaries, from 5 years to 180 years.
The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce promotes the best interests of over 500 member organizations by enhancing leadership opportunities, connection with prospective customers, endorsement of products and services, increasing sales and saving money.