Black Chamber of Orange County Banquet a Huge Success

The Black Chamber of Orange County held its 15th Annual Awards Banquet, a program titled "Science, Medicine and Inventions." Guests included Secretary of State Bruce McPherson and more than 1,000 others who gatherd at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel to enjoy inspirational speeches, music and the honorees.

Anaheim, CA (PRWEB) August 27, 2006 -- The Black Chamber of Orange County 15th Annual Awards Banquet, banquet and awards program titled “Science, Medicine and Inventions” brought out the most distinguished names in California, including the Secretary of State, Bruce McPherson. More than 1,000 people gathered at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel to enjoy inspirational speeches, music and the honorees.

The honorees included: 2006 Community Service Award to, Lt. Valna Wilson of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department; 2006 Corporation of the Year Award, Dr. Melissa Welch, Aetna; 2006 Community Leadership Award, Dr. Michael Drake, Chancellor, University of California, Irvine; 2006 Distinguished Service Award, General President Darryl R. Matthews, Sr. & Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; 2006 Distinguished Service Award, Supreme Basileus Lillian Stokes & Chi Eta Phi Sorority, 2006 Business Person of the Year Award, Mr. Abdi Ahmed, Netserve Systems; 2006 Aaron/Elijah Lovejoy Award, Ingrid Johnson, Council of African-American Parents.

The Xavier choir and jazz band came from New Orleans to treat visitors with their angelic voices and soulful music.

Often, politicians come late and leave early because of their busy schedules. But Secretary McPherson came early and stayed late, including attending both after parties. “Bruce is a great guy, he just visited with us and took the time to just talk about music, politics, food, fatherhood and anything that came up,” said David Morgan Chamber board member and chairman of the California Black Republican Caucus.

“I had a great time meeting the honorees and talking to people in attendance,” said McPherson. "This is a big state and whenever I get the opportunity to listen what people of California really care about I feel honored to do so,” he added.

Video and photos of the banquet can be seen at www.ocblackchamber.com.

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