EWC 26 Program Book by Women's Business Development Center

2012 CONFERENCE PROGRAM

26 th ANNUAL

September 20, 2012 The oldest national conference and business opportunities fair for women business owners in the country.

McCormick Place-West 2301 S. Indiana Avenue Chicago, Illinois

Presented by the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Development Center (WBDC)

Conference

Sponsors

Marquee Sponsors*

Premier Sponsors

Premier WBE Sponsors

VIVA

Major Sponsors

Premier Media Sponsors VIVA

VIVA

WBE Sponsors

Official Carrier

Official Television Sponsor

Media Sponsors Official Technology & Cyber CafĂŠ Sponsors

* T he Deluxe Corporation Foundation is serving in an Honorary Sponsorship capacity.

Honorary Co-Chairs Honorable Danny K. Davis, U.S. Congressman, Illinois â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7th District Honorable Pat Quinn, Governor, State of Illinois Honorable John J. Cullerton, Illinois Senate President Honorable Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President Honorable Rahm Emanuel, Mayor, City of Chicago Honorable Judith A. Roussel, Illinois District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration

Sponsors listed are those confirmed by August 1, 2012

Conference Co-Chairs Mindy Mercaldo Illinois Division President Citibank, N.A.

Cheryl Pearson-McNeil Senior Vice President Public Affairs and Government Relations Nielsen

Conference Sponsors | 3

Deluxe Corporation Foundation

Is proud to offer WBDC clients greater flexibility by sponsoring the development of business education courses online/on-demand.

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Welcome The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is celebrating its 26th year of progress for women and minority-owned businesses. Since its inception, the WBDC has been committed to affirmative action and the implementation of contracting goals, advocacy, public policies, and programs and services that strengthen women and minorityowned businesses. Unfortunately, parity has not yet been achieved for women and minority-owned businesses, but we have made major progress. Women and minority-owned businesses are now the majority of businesses in the U.S. However, the annual revenues of 80% of all businesses and over 90% of minority and women-owned businesses in the U.S. are under $500,000. As we exit from our economic recession, small business is the driving force of the economy – responsible for nearly half of all sales, employing more people, creating more jobs and starting businesses at a faster rate. Women and minority-owned businesses are the fastest growing segment of our economy today, and our success is enhanced by the private and public sectors’ commitment to and implementation of diversity and economic opportunity contracting programs. The horizon is looking brighter at the federal, state and local levels. The U. S. Small Business Administration is committed to implementing an expanded 5% contracting goal for women business enterprises for every federal agency. In Illinois, Governor Quinn expanded the power of the Illinois Business Enterprise Council to ensure that women and minority businesses will have significant access to contracts and subcontracting opportunities with the State of Illinois and all its State agencies and institutions, including state colleges and universities. In Cook County, President Preckwinkle’s administration has increased the goals for women and minority businesses in all county agencies; monitoring and compliance are enhanced and new initiatives on bonding and insurance and prompt payment are being implemented. In the City of Chicago under Mayor Rahm Emanuel, new and increased resources expedite W/MBE certification and the commitment to contract compliance is enhanced. All City sister agencies are on board to expand business opportunities for women and minority business enterprises, and new initiatives are being implemented to provide more prime contracting opportunities.

For business and job creation in the U.S., the case for diversity is clear and uncompromising. Corporate America is committed to strengthening its relationships and to sustaining and increasing market share with women and people of color as consumers of their goods and services and also as employees, vendors and suppliers. What you and the WBDC want is a level playing field, parity and equal opportunity. There’s much we can do together. We can support efforts to strengthen supplier diversity and vendor development initiatives. We can encourage, commend and buy from corporations that have diversity in employment and purchasing plans, and let these companies know we recognize and appreciate their fair-minded practices. The 26 years of the WBDC’s Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference supports the achievements of affirmative action in the private and public sector. Join us at this year’s Women’s Business & Buyers Mart to build relationships and find opportunities with the committed corporations and government agencies who, like us, understand the value of diversity and the business case for the utilization of diverse suppliers. Our country’s economic strength depends upon all of us, and the health and vitality of our businesses, our families, our communities and our country are strengthened by diversity and parity.

S. Carol Dougal and Hedy M. Ratner Co-Founders and Co-Presidents Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC)

Welcome | 5

Small businesses make up 97% * of U.S. exporters. There’s nothing small about small business. It might be called a small business, but it’s a big deal to you. BMO Harris Bank shares that mindset. And our full range of small business services can help your business succeed. Working together, we’ll help keep your small business right where you want it. To learn more, call 1-888-489-2265, stop in, or visit bmoharris.com/smallbusiness.

BMO Harris BankSM is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC *U.S. Department of Commerce. “A Profile of U.S. Exporting Companies, 2007 - 2008.” Reprinted in U.S. Census Bureau Report, 13 Apr 2010.

Table of

Contents

Welcome Letter from WBDC Co-Presidents

Schedule of Events

Letters from our Conference Co-Chairs

Proclamations, Resolutions and Honorary Co-Chair Letters

14 – 20

26th Annual Women’s Forum Breakfast

23 – 25

26th Annual Hall of Fame Awards Luncheon

29 – 37

26th Annual Women’s Business & Buyers Mart

Please turn this book over for the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart Directory and a complete listing of exhibitor information

Contract Connections

Launching Your Own Business: From Dream to Reality

Ask the Experts: Solutions for Your Business

Get Down to Business Networking Reception

General Conference Information

Sponsor Acknowledgements

Partner Organizations Acknowledgements

About the WBDC

Ad Index

Workshop for start-ups

Roundtable sessions for business owners of all levels

11, 13

42 – 43

52 – 53

100

Table of Contents | 7

BP is honored to partner with Team USA. Just as we fuel Team USA, BP is committed to relationships that energize business opportunities with Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises. Through a culture of inclusion, we connect with the most innovative and performancedriven suppliers within BPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s community. Find out more at bp.com/supplierdiversity

ÂŠ 2012 BP America Inc. 36 USC 220506

Schedule of

Events

Marquee Sponsors*

Thursday, September 20, 2012 7:30 a.m. Registration Opens

Located outside Skyline Ballroom

8:00 – 9:30 a.m.

26th Annual Women’s Forum Breakfast Skyline Ballroom A-C

Featuring Moderator

Terry Savage Sponsored by

9:30 – 11:45 a.m. Women’s Business & Buyers Mart *The Deluxe Corporation Foundation is serving in an Honorary Sponsorship capacity.

Skyline Ballroom D & E

9:45 – 11:45 a.m. Launching Your Own Business: From Dream to Reality Breakout Room 180 (workshop for start-ups)

9:45 – 11:45 a.m. Contract Connections Skyline Ballroom D & E (by appointment only)

Noon – 1:45 p.m. 26th Annual Hall of Fame Awards Luncheon Skyline Ballroom A-C

Keynote Presenter: Lisa Price Founder, Carol’s Daughter, Inc. Sponsored by

1:45 – 5:00 p.m. Women’s Business & Buyers Mart Skyline Ballroom D & E

2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Contract Connections Skyline Ballroom D & E (by appointment only)

2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Ask the Experts: Solutions for Your Business Breakout Room 181 (for business owners of all levels)

5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Get Down to Business Networking Reception Skyline Ballroom Terrace

Schedule of Events | 9

You stand behind women entrepreneurs everywhere. We stand behind you. Citi is proud to support the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Development Center. Congratulations on 26 years of success and paving the way for women in business everywhere.

ÂŠ 2012 Citigroup Inc. Citi and Arc Design is a registered service mark of Citigroup Inc.

Conference

Co-Chair Mindy Mercaldo Illinois Division President Citibank, N.A.

Conference Co-Chair | 11

Nielsen is committed to increasing our spend with minority and women owned business enterprises (MWBEs). Nielsen recognizes the tremendous purchasing power of MWBEs. Our policy is to build collaborative, mutual alliances and to provide economic development opportunities in our procurement process with certified minority and women owned business enterprises. To register your company information, visit www.nielsen.com/supplierdiversity and complete an online profile.

www.nielsen.com

Conference

Co-Chair Cheryl Pearson-McNeil

Senior Vice President Public Affairs and Government Relations, Nielsen

Dear Friends: When Bonnie Raitt wrote the song "Let's Give Them Something to Talk About" she wasn't singing about women currently controlling $12 trillion of the $18 trillion of buying power across the globe. Or, the fact that U.S. women-owned businesses generate $1.2 trillion in sales in the United States, but it sure is something we should be talking about, isn't it? What I love most about Hedy M. Ratner and S. Carol Dougal, the co-founders and co-presidents of the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC), is that as advocates and a resource outlet for women business owners across the Midwest, they have for 26 consecutive years given women entrepreneurs a voice. The 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference & Buyers Mart is no exception. As a representative of Nielsen, the leading global measurement and insights company that measures what consumers watch and what consumers buy, I am honored to serve as a co-chair for the event that is always "buzz" worthy. We hope that you network, and mix and mingle your way through the conference and learn all of the latest best practices. And we encourage you to think strategically about how to marry your business acumen with your female consumer instincts, so you'll return to your respective consumers reenergized and recommitted to meeting their every need...which is exactly what you want your clients talking about when it comes to YOUR business. Embrace Your Power,

Cheryl Pearson-McNeil Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Government Relations Nielsen 200 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 2700 Chicago, IL tel 312-385-6505 fax 312-385-6515 www.nielsen.com

Conference Co-Chair | 13

Congress of the United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C.

Danny K. Davis

7th District - Illinois

August 2, 2012 Hedy M. Ratner Co-President Women's Business Development Center 8 South Michigan Avenue – 4th Floor Chicago, Illinois 60603 Dear Ms. Ratner: Please extend to all of the participants at the 26th Anniversary Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference, September 20, 2012 at Chicago’s McCormick Place my hearty welcome and greetings. Your conference, as always, is both a milestone and beacon of hope along the road to economic equality for women. Over the past twenty-six years of your existence women have made significant gains in wage equality and business opportunity. Women owned businesses are a dynamic and growing share of our economy – almost half of privately held U.S. businesses. We celebrate these gains and the accompanying social and political benefits to America. The fact is, that without women owned businesses, our economy cannot grow and thrive. It logically follows that we must not lose sight of the need for continued progress. The wage gap has narrowed but is nowhere near closed. The glass ceiling now has some openings but still remains a barrier for the majority of women. Until we end gender discrimination and disparities we can not claim to be a fair and just society. The Women’s Business Development Center can, and should, take some of the credit for the successes which have been scored. By that same logic, the Women’s Business Development Center must also then renew its commitment to continuing the work it has begun. This conference is proof of that commitment. I extend my congratulations along with my very best wishes and trust that the conference will be a great success and that all those in attendance will come away renewed and empowered. Sincerely,

Danny K. Davis Member of Congress DKD:ic

Letters & Proclamations | 14

Letters & Proclamations | 15

Friends, It is an honor to help welcome you to the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. On behalf of the members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus and the constituents of the 6th Legislative District, I’d like to salute those who will be participating in the oldest national conference and business opportunities fair for women business owners in the country. Your work to support female and minority business ownership and economic development throughout Illinois is both noble and inspiring. This conference offers women business owners real solutions to the current problems they are facing and the opportunity to increase the profitability of their businesses by establishing relationships with corporate and government buyers, business experts and other women business owners. Again, I am proud to recognize your past contributions and extend my congratulations to the Women’s Business Development Center on hosting its 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Women’s Conference. I wish the very best for continued success and progress.

Sincerely,

John J. Cullerton Senate President

Letters & Proclamations | 16

Letters & Proclamations | 17

Letters & Proclamations | 18

Letters & Proclamations | 19

M E T RO P O L I TA N WAT E R R E C L A M AT I O N D I S T R I C T o f G R E AT E R C H I C A G O

RESOLUTION

SPONSORED by the BOARD of COMMISSIONERS RECOGNIZING th

THE 26 ANNUAL ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMAN’S CONFERENCE AND THE WOMEN’S BUSINESS AND BUYER’S MART ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2012 WHEREAS, the Women’s Business Development Center

(WBDC) is a nationally recognized non-profit women’s business assistance organization devoted to providing services and programs that support and accelerate women’s business ownership and strengthen the impact of women on the economy; and

WHEREAS, the WBDC will hold its 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference and Women’s Business and Buyers Mart on September 20, 2012, at McCormick PlaceWest; and

counseling and training workshops; successfully implemented a bilingual initiative to assist Latinas with business development; launched the Asian American Women Business Initiative with Women’s Bureau, Department of Labor and Asian American alliance to assist Asian women back into entrepreneurship; helped women-owned businesses win over $250 million in government and private sector contracts; and facilitated over $35,000,000 in loans; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation

District of Greater Chicago has been a pioneer in recognizing the economic contribution of business women; and

WHEREAS, this conference will offer the participants an opportunity to increase the profitability of their businesses by building relationships with corporate and government buyers, business experts, and other women business owners; and

WHEREAS, this recognition is evidenced by

the District’s early adoption and continuing advocacy of a policy which supports the legitimate aspirations of women’s businesses within its jurisdiction; and

WHEREAS, the WBDC has put forth cre-

ative and innovative approaches to empowering women and their families, striving to influence the larger political and economic environment in a way that encourages and supports women’s economic empowerment; and

WHEREAS, the development of women’s business enterprises is in the best interest of the District, City of Chicago, Cook County, State of Illinois and United States of America; and

WHEREAS, the WBDC was founded in 1986 by S. Carol

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the

Dougal and Hedy M. Ratner and since then more than 50,000 women business owners have used its programs and services including one-on-one counseling, workshops, entrepreneurial training, Women’s Business Finance program, Women’s Business Enterprise Certification program, Procurement and Technical Assistance program, Child Care Business Initiative and program, and Women’s Tech and Venture program; and

WHEREAS, the WBDC has taught more than 50,000 women entrepreneurs practical business skills through one-on-one

Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, on behalf of ourselves and staff, hereby join in recognizing the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference and Women’s Business and Buyers Mart; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the permanent Record of Proceedings of the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and that a copy of same, suitably engrossed, be presented to the Women’s Business Development Center.

DATED THIS 9th DAY of AUGUST 2012.

B OA R D o f C O M M I S S I O N E R S TERRENCE J. O’BRIEN

BARBARA J. M CGOWAN

CYNTHIA M. SANTOS

PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

CHAIRMAN OF FINANCE

MICHAEL A. ALVAREZ

FRANK AVILA

PATRICIA HORTON

KATHLEEN THERESE MEANY

DEBRA SHORE

MARIYANA T. SPYROPOULOS

DAVID ST. PIERRE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Letters & Proclamations | 20

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Charitable.

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Credible.

The Chicago Sun-Times is proud to support the Women's Business Development Center.

Subscribe today with our best offer for friends, family and partners of the Chicago Sun-Times. Just $26 for 26 weeks. Visit suntimes.com/friend or call 888-848-4637.

Women’s

Forum Breakfast Thursday, September 20, 2012 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. Skyline Ballroom A-C, McCormick Place-West Sponsored by For over 20 years the Women’s Forum has remained one of the most popular and prestigious elements of the Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. Learn from, and be inspired by, nationally-renowned women business owners as moderator Terry Savage, appearing courtesy of the Chicago Sun-Times, leads this year’s panel through another lively, candid, open — and always fascinating — discussion about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. The last twenty minutes will be open to audience questions.

Forum Moderator Terry Savage Chicago Sun-Times Financial Columnist and Best-Selling Author of “The Savage Truth on Money” President, Terry Savage Productions, Ltd. Terry Savage is a nationally recognized, award-winning financial authority, television personality and the author of best-selling books on personal finance. Her most recent book, The New Savage Number: How Much Money Do You Really Need to Retire? was released in 2009, and released in 2011 was a new edition of The Savage Truth on Money, which was named one of the ten best money books of the year by Amazon.com when the first edition came out a decade ago. Says Terry: “Those Truths remain valid, though I’ve updated guidance and numbers in this edition, which is aimed at those just starting out — or starting over!” Terry is a nationally syndicated finance columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, and a regular contributor to the popular investing websites MoneyShow.com, YahooFinance.com and TheStreet.com. A frequent guest on radio and television shows including CNN, NBC and CNBC — appearing several times on Oprah! — Terry co-hosted her CBS-TV’s Chicago morning show in 2010 and is in demand as a speaker at meetings across the country. You can read her columns and post questions on her blog at www.TerrySavage.com. Terry’s financial expertise comes from experience. A founding member and the first woman trader on the Chicago Board Options Exchange, she is also the president of her own company, Terry Savage Productions, Ltd.

Women’s Forum Breakfast | 23

Women’s

Forum Breakfast

2012 Forum Panelists Sue Bhatia Chief Executive Officer Rose International, Inc. Ranked 13th on Fast Company’s list of the Top 25 Women Business Builders in North America, Bhatia founded Rose International in the spring of 1993. Under her leadership, Rose emerged as a force in the IT and Business Services arena, and is a leader in providing innovative end-to-end technology services to both commercial organizations and government agencies from branch offices, Centralized Recruiting Centers and development centers in 21 U.S. cities and India. With 6,000+ associates and steady revenue growth, Rose International is recognized as one of the country’s fastest-growing and most successful companies, and the largest woman-owned business in St. Louis, MO. A recipient of numerous awards for her business acumen, Rose has also been highlighted in such prestigious business publications as Inc. and BusinessWeek and was ranked second on Staffing Industry Analysts’ Fastest-Growing U.S. Staffing Firms list in the summer of 2011. While her responsibilities at Rose occupy most of her available time, Bhatia has always found time to develop and promote women entrepreneurs both in the United States and around the world. Furthering global women’s business development is an important area of focus for her and she has participated in numerous events furthering this mission in such places as China, Switzerland, Tokyo and Turkey, to name a few. Bhatia currently serves on the Immigration Steering Committee in St. Louis to help promote immigration in the area, and she previously served on the President’s Initiative on Race and on the Board of Directors for the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

Christie Hefner Former CEO, Playboy Enterprises, Inc. Executive Chairman, Canyon Ranch Enterprises Christie Hefner serves as Executive Chairman of Canyon Ranch Enterprises, a new company leveraging the brand and knowledge of Canyon Ranch via media and business partnerships. From 1988-2008 she served as Chairman and CEO of Playboy Enterprises, Inc. overseeing global expansion of Playboy’s legendary brand to a wide array of new platforms and markets, transforming a domestic publishingbased business into a global multi-media and lifestyle company. She was the longest serving female CEO ever of a public company, and she was named one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the World by Forbes magazine for three consecutive years. As the first woman elected to the Chicago chapter of the Young Presidents’ Organization, Christie helped to found the Committee of 200, an international organization of preeminent women business owners and executives, whose mission is to foster, celebrate and advance women’s leadership in business. She is also a founding member of The Chicago Network, an organization of professional women in the Chicago area in business, the arts, and government. Christie currently sits on the Council of National Advisors for Springboard Enterprises, which supports women-led growth ventures; is a Director at the Center for American Progress, the leading progressive public policy think tank started and run by John Podesta; is on the board of Trustees for Rush University Medical Center; and has distinguished herself as a committed HIV/AIDS activist.

Women’s Forum Breakfast | 24

Laura Ricketts Director of Chicago Cubs Major League Baseball Chairman of the Board, Chicago Cubs Laura Ricketts is a director and part owner of the Chicago Cubs Major League Baseball club as well as Chairman of the Board for Chicago Cubs Charities. Much of her work with the Cubs is focused on community relations, government relations and philanthropy. Prior to her current position, Ricketts practiced law at the Chicago law firm of Schiff, Hardin & Waite (now Schiff Hardin LLP) where she was an associate in the Corporate and Securities Practice Group and concentrated her practice in mergers and acquisitions, restructurings and general corporate and securities law matters. She left the practice of law to co-found Ecotravel, LLC. Dedicated to fostering and promoting ecotourism worldwide, Ecotravel, LLC operated Ecotravel.com, an online magazine of ecotourism news and information and directory of ecotourism service providers. Selected as one of the top ecotourism websites by the Wall Street Journal in 2002, Ecotravel.com provided information and resources to educate travelers and facilitate travel planning while assisting ecotourism providers in promoting their services. Ricketts is involved with several organizations in the Chicago area community and beyond. She currently serves on the National Leadership Council for Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, a national non-profit organization that litigates, educates and engages in public policy work on behalf of LGBT civil rights. Ricketts also Co-Chairs the Democratic National Committee’s LGBT Leadership Council and is a member of U.S. Representative Mike Quigley’s LGBT Advisory Council.

Richelle Shaw Chief Executive Officer RTS Publishing, LLC Richelle Shaw’s story of entrepreneurial success is one of true tenacity, hardship and hard work. A featured expert and leading authority on building successful million dollar businesses, Richelle’s expertise comes from experience. In 1993, Richelle began working as a sales person for Colorado River Communications working her way to Executive Vice President in 4 years and leading the company in record sales. While there, she helped build the company from a $300,000 operation to a $36 million dollar operation with 52 employees. In her role, Richelle oversaw both domestic and international sales with Norway and Mexico. When the owner’s plans to take the company public did not materialize, he decided he wanted to focus on international business only. Richelle knew that the domestic side of the business was still viable, she recognized an opportunity and in 1999 she purchased the assets of the company and rolled them into Communication Experts, Inc., a competitive local exchange carrier/reseller providing local, long distance, cellular and internet service, thus making her the sole owner and the only female, African American public utility owner in the nation. After the 9-11 tragedies, Richelle was forced to file bankruptcy and rebuild her business. In 2002, pulling from her own personal experience, she developed the FreshStart Program for credit challenged customers to obtain the services her company offered without deposits or credit checks, and with this program she was able to rebuild her million dollar business in 5 months. In 2007, Richelle decided to sell the company to another reseller who sold to CenturyLink within 6 months. Since 2007, Richelle has been committed to helping entrepreneurs avoid the mistakes she made in her business, and has successfully mentored over 12,000 men and women, in 98 different industries, through her international coaching programs for small businesses. She is the author of How to Build A Million Dollar Business in Las Vegas – Without the Casinos and she currently serves as the featured Money Expert on her FOX5 local affiliate, The MORE Show.

Women’s Forum Breakfast | 25

Partner with Grainger. We recognize the importance of meeting supplier diversity goals. As one of North America’s leading suppliers of facilities maintenance supplies, our supplier diversity program provides quality products in every category, from cleaning supplies and casters to tools and fasteners that help our customers get their jobs done. Today, more and more minority-owned and woman-owned businesses are working as suppliers for our daily operations. So whether you supply our company with the products and services we need, or supply the products that we distribute to our customers, we’ll partner with you to meet both our goals. To register for Grainger’s Supplier Diversity Program, visit https://app.suppliergateway.com/grainger Look for the Supplier Diversity symbol throughout our catalog. For the most current listings of Grainger diverse supplier products, click on the Supplier Diversity logo on the Grainger.com home page.

Grainger is a proud, active member of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and a Founding Member of the Diverse Manufacturing Supply Chain Alliance.

Fulfill your dreams and your goals.

Creating opportunities for diverse businesses to grow and thrive.

Supplier diversity at OfficeMax® is built on our commitment to building strong relationships with our certified diverse suppliers of all sizes—and helping customers like you achieve your business goals. We are continuously looking for new ways to help small businesses reach their full potential, while helping us deliver exceptional products and services. We hope that you will join us on this meaningful journey. Please contact your sales representative at 877.969.OMAX (6629) to start doing business with OfficeMax, or visit diversitybusiness.com/officemax to register as a diverse supplier.

Contact Allan Rollins for more information Call: 630.864.5644 or email: allanrollins@ofﬁcemax.com

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER CREATES AN ENERGY ALL ITS OWN. Diversity is the foundation of any strong organization. That’s why ComEd is proud to lend our support to programs that bring people together in the spirit of community. ComEd is very proud to support the Women’s Business Development Center. Best wishes for a wonderful conference!

www.ComEd.com | 1-800-EDISON-1

26th Annual Hall of Fame

AWARDS Luncheon Thursday, September 20, 2012 Noon – 1:45 p.m. Skyline Ballroom A-C, McCormick Place-West Sponsored by

Each year the Women’s Business Development Center’s (WBDC) Hall of Fame Awards recognize women entrepreneurs who have demonstrated unequaled strength, perseverance and creativity in their businesses, and who have embodied entrepreneurial success in various ways. The WBDC also recognizes advocates, corporations and government agencies who have demonstrated their enthusiastic commitment to the strengthening of women’s business ownership and economic development.

Keynote Presenter Lisa Price Founder, Carol’s Daughter, Inc. From humble beginnings in her Brooklyn kitchen, Lisa Price transformed her beloved hobby of mixing up fragrances and creams at home into a multi-million dollar beauty empire. In the early 1990s, Lisa began experimenting, making her own fragrances and perfume sprays when she wasn’t busy working on the legendary sitcom The Cosby Show. When the show finished its TV run in 1992, Lisa used the end of one chapter of her life to embark on another. With $100 in cash, her own kitchen, and the simple notion that people should follow their hearts, she started building the collection that would become a beauty revolution. In August of 1994, Lisa officially established Carol’s Daughter, lovingly named after her mother. Today, Carol’s Daughter sells millions of dollars worth of products annually, employs more than 80 staff members, and has nine stores across the country, with a flagship store in Harlem, and hopes to continue expanding Carol’s Daughter to other cities. Lisa is an active philanthropist and is dedicated to giving back to the community through both her business and her personal life. Most recently, she was appointed as a council member of the National Women’s Business Council, an independent source of advice and policy recommendations to the President, Congress, and the U.S. Small Business Administration on economic issues that face female business owners.

We hope you will join us in honoring our 2012 Award Recipients. (see pages 31-37)

Hall of Fame Awards Luncheon | 29

2012 Award

Recipients Cassandra Sanford Chief Executive Officer KellyMitchell Group

26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year

Linda Johnson Photography

With over fifteen years of experience in the professional services industry for Fortune 500 corporations, with a specialized focus in technology consulting, Cassandra Sanford is the CEO and co-founder of KellyMitchell, and is responsible for the daily operations and management. Since founding KellyMitchell fourteen years ago, Cassandra has grown the company from a local firm with 3 employees to a national organization with over 1000 employees in 45 states. KellyMitchell is headquartered in St. Louis, with offices in Minneapolis, Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Miami, New York, Richmond, San Francisco and Seattle. A recipient of numerous awards for her business acumen and philanthropic endeavors, Cassandra is a WBENC-certified WBE and a member of both the Committee of 200 and the Women’s Presidents’ Organization (WPO), and makes a practice of mentoring other women and giving back to her community. She is an active guest speaker for various entrepreneur courses in the St. Louis area and a member of the Billiken’s Angel Network, an angel investment group. She serves on various boards including the St. Louis Regional Commerce Growth Association, the United Way, and The Magic House. She is Chairman of the Women’s Leadership Society of the United Way, and is an advisory board member of FTL Capital, whose mission is to finance businesses in under-capitalized communities.

The Women’s Business Development Center is proud to honor the outstanding accomplishments of its longtime supporter, dedicated women’s business advocate and friend, Cassandra Sanford, with the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award.

Award Recipients | 31

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Our unconventional approach combined with our full suite of in-house services results in a promotional marketing program that is effortless, efficient and cost effective. And itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all brought to you with stellar customer service from people who love what they do.

2012 Award

Recipients Heather Sanderson CEO and Owner Overture Premiums & Promotions LLC

26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year – WBE Success

Since founding Overture in 2001 with just 3 employees and limited office space, Heather Sanderson has taken her company from a small, start-up business to one of the industry’s leading promotional marketing companies, as noted by its inclusion in the Top 50 Distributors for five consecutive years running by Promotional Marketing magazine. Today, Overture is a certified WBE, composed of 65 employees and year-after-year revenue growth, all housed in a 70,000 square foot building. With more than 2,500 clients spanning nearly 20 industries, this diversity in client markets enables Overture to provide client-teams comprised of members with industry-specific experience. Prior to founding Overture, Heather was CFO of an ASI industry supplier, with five different divisions located in Texas and California, for ten years. As CEO and owner of Overture, Heather uses her business expertise to lead the management team and company with a long-term business strategy based on a foundation of controlled growth. Even as Overture continues to grow, she is a permanent member of the company’s Mentor Program, passing her ad specialty expertise on to the next generation. Dedicated to the promotional marketing industry as well as to the growth of Overture, Heather spearheaded the Mentor Program which has now graduated five successful product experts, two of which are women that have secured over $1 million in sales in 2011. Heather also functions as the company’s official spokesperson, and is a core member of the company’s corporate sales team responsible for acquiring large, contracted promotional clients, and is the company’s liaison with its many activities related to its WBENC certified WBE status.

The Women’s Business Development Center is proud to honor the outstanding accomplishments and WBE success of our client, supporter and friend, Heather Sanderson, with the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year – WBE Success Award.

Award Recipients | 33

2012 Award

Recipients Danielle Hrzic President and Co-Founder Gourmet Gorilla

26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year – Rising Star

Danielle Hrzic, is co-founder and president of Gourmet Gorilla, a school food service company providing local and organic meals to over 90 schools throughout northern Illinois. Gourmet Gorilla began out of a need to provide healthier meals at her son’s school in Chicago’s South Loop and currently provides over 5,000 meals per day at private and charter preschools, early childhood and elementary schools, with a mission of supporting local farmers and businesses. Having started the company on a personal credit card and an $8,000 microloan, the company has managed to grow with minimal debt, reinvestment of profits and a great deal of hard work and focus. Danielle is a driven professional who has created a strong, profitable business model for serving the children of our community with healthy, organic food choices. An alumnus of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program, Danielle was recently featured on the Morning Joe program on MSNBC, joined by Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein and billionaire investor Warren Buffett.

The Women’s Business Development Center is thrilled to honor the outstanding accomplishments of our client, friend and supporter, Danielle Hrzic, with the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year – Rising Star Award.

Award Recipients | 34

26th Annual Advocacy Awards The Women’s Business Development Center is thrilled to honor the outstanding accomplishments of both Pamela Prince-Eason of WBENC and Joset Wright of NMSDC for their tremendous advocacy efforts on behalf of women and minority business owners nationally with the 26th Annual Advocacy Awards. The WBDC is proud to be the largest certifying partner of WBENC, and proud of the partnership we have shared with the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council (CMSDC) since our inception – 26 years ago. This collaboration is what has led to much of the important legislation that supports the creation and growth of women and minority-owned businesses in the State of Illinois, the County of Cook and the City of Chicago.

Pamela Prince-Eason President & CEO Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) Pamela Prince-Eason is the president and CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). She is the former Chair of the WBENC Board of Directors and prior to coming to WBENC held the position of vice president of Worldwide Procurement for Pfizer Inc, headquartered in New York City. Prince-Eason’s professional career as both corporate executive and woman business owner has honed her expertise in supplier

Joset B. Wright President National Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. (NMSDC)® Joset B. Wright is president of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), a private non-profit organization that expands business opportunities for minority-owned companies of all sizes. NMSDC encourages mutually beneficial economic links between minority suppliers and the public and private sectors, and helps build a stronger, more equitable society by supporting and promoting minority business development. The NMSDC Network includes a national office in New York and 37 Regional Councils across the country. There are 3,500 corporate

Today, we honor the two leading advocacy organizations working on behalf of women and minority business owners nationally. We commend the incredible progress they have made and their continuous, ongoing efforts.

diversity, strategic leadership, management best practices and cost ownership processes. Prior to her roles at Pfizer, she held various leadership positions at Texas Instruments, GSE Systems, Warner Lambert and as a co-owner of women-run RMR Associates, a business process consulting company. Prince-Eason’s dedication to women’s business leadership is illustrated in her many professional and personal roles advancing women’s excellence and opportunity. In addition to WBENC, she has been a strong supporter of the Institute of Supply Management (ISM), the premier supply management association in the world, and the National Minority Supplier Diversity Council (NMSDC). She serves as a member of the U.S. Department of State’s International Council on Women’s Business Leadership (ICWBL) Subcommittee on Access to Markets; is an active collaborator on Small Business and Women & Girl’s initiatives through the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) and on the advisory committees of several Corporations including Wal-mart’s Women Owned Business Advisory Council.

members throughout the network, including America’s top publiclyowned, privately-owned and foreign-owned companies as well as universities, hospitals and other buying institutions. The Regional Councils certify and match more than 16,000 MBEs with member corporations that want to purchase their goods and services. Wright is an attorney and former procurement executive with a broad range of professional experience in the corporate and private sectors. She honed her leadership, strategic planning and management skills during a 13-year career in the telecommunications industry that began as an attorney at Indiana Bell, a subsidiary of Ameritech Corporation, and was later named vice president of procurement and property services, where she managed the acquisition of $4 billion annually in goods and services, and introduced strategic sourcing across the $33 billion enterprise. After a merger between Ameritech Corporation and SBC Corporation, she was named president of Ameritech Illinois – then the largest communications company in Illinois with $4.5 billion in annual operating revenues. She was responsible for all regulatory, legislative and external relations activities.

Award Recipients | 35

GOOD HANDS WORKING TOGETHER CAN CHANGE THE WORLD.

Allstate is proud to sponsor the 26th Annual WBDC Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference.

People come first. Everything else is second. That’s Allstate’s Stand.® To learn more about Allstate's Supplier Diversity program visit www.allstate.com/procurement © 2012 Allstate Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL

2012 Award

Recipients

26th Annual Corporate Support Award Allstate Insurance Company

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is proud to honor Allstate as its 26th Annual Corporate Support Award recipient for their ongoing commitment to the advancement of women and minority-owned businesses. Allstate has proudly supported the efforts of the WBDC since 1988.

The Women’s Business Development Center is proud to honor the longtime diversity accomplishments of Allstate, and our many friends inside who make these accomplishments possible, with the 26th Annual Corporate Support Award.

Cheryl A. Harris, C.P.M. Senior Vice President, Sourcing and Procurement Solutions Allstate Insurance Company In this role Cheryl and her team are responsible for optimizing Allstate’s spend portfolio of $14B through collaboration with internal business partners and driving innovation with external suppliers. Included in this role is oversight of Allstate’s Supplier Diversity program focused on increasing opportunities for small, women and minority-owned businesses to be included in the supply chain and driving approaches for their on-going growth and development. Prior to joining Allstate, Cheryl served as the Americas Procurement Delivery Lead at Accenture LLP. In her role Cheryl was responsible

for driving Source-to-Pay solutions for 7 commercial clients managing $10B in addressable spend and delivering greater than $200M in savings per year. Another of Cheryl’s responsibilities included championing Supplier Diversity across Accenture’s global organization, notably serving as the U.S Supplier Diversity Director – resulting in greater than 16% of Accenture spend in the U.S channeled to women and minority-owned businesses – and the launch of the Diverse Supplier Development Program in both the U.S. and Canada.

Margaret Klinsport Director of Supplier Diversity Allstate Insurance Company Margaret has worked at Allstate for over 25 years. She began her career in the Allstate New Jersey Claim Department taking loss reports in Spanish while on a summer break from intended career as a teacher. Margaret has since held a variety of positions in the Claim Department in the states of Arizona, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Washington and at Allstate’s corporate headquarters in Northbrook, Illinois.

department as Director of Procurement with a focus on the services and commodities that supported the claim discipline. After holding that position for four years, in June of 2006, Margaret was appointed Director of Allstate’s Supplier Diversity initiative. In this capacity it is her responsibility to work with minority suppliers and help the minority supplier earn the opportunity to compete for Allstate’s business.

When Allstate made the strategic decision to centralize its procurement processes, Margaret was asked to join that

Award Recipients | 37

At Microsoft , we see no limits to the potential we all might reach. ÂŽ

We believe in creating opportunities for people to succeed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in our products, in our workplace, and among our suppliers. For that reason, we are strongly committed to diversity, including seeking certified minority, woman, service-disabled veteran, and veteran owned business enterprises from which to purchase competitively priced quality goods and services. Together with our suppliers, we are continuously innovating to lower the cost of technology, making it accessible to all and showing leadership in supporting the communities in which we work and live.

Visit http://www.microsoft.com/procurement/diversity to learn more about how to do business with Microsoft.

26th Annual Women’s Business &

Buyers Mart

Microsoft Pavilion – Technology Solutions Microsoft has a network of dedicated partners specializing in small business technology needs. Our small business focused partners are saving business owners from costly and time consuming mistakes, and can help keep everyone in your company connected, so your team can operate more efficiently and stay on top of new business developments. During the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference, our WBE Certified Partners will be available for oneon-one technology consultations to discuss new technologies that will make your business more productive and efficient. Please stop by the Microsoft Pavilion at the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart to learn more!

Please turn this book over for the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart Directory and a complete listing of exhibitor information.

Thursday, September 20, 2012 9:30 – 11:45 a.m. & 1:45 – 5:00 p.m. Skyline Ballroom D & E, McCormick Place-West Sponsored by

Now in its third decade of success, the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart is the oldest business opportunities fair for women business owners in the country. Featuring over 200 corporate and government entities seeking women as vendors, suppliers or contractors, the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart provides an opportunity for women business owners to enhance the profitability of their business by establishing relationships with corporate and government buyers, and with other women entrepreneurs. The Women’s Business & Buyers Mart also provides women business owners with access to information, resources and contacts to assist with their business needs and boost their bottom line. We encourage women business owners to display their materials in the popular Resource Center, located inside the exhibit hall. The WBDC is pleased to offer free WiFi and access to laptop computers during this year’s conference at the Cyber Café, located on the Mart floor, courtesy of CDW and Microsoft Corporation. Stay connected to your important business contacts!

Contract Connections Thursday, September 20, 2012 9:45 – 11:45 a.m. & 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Skyline Ballroom D & E, McCormick Place-West Located inside the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is thrilled to be presenting the 10th Annual Contract Connections program at this year’s Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. The purpose of this program is to establish connections between certified Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs) and purchasing decision-makers from corporations and government agencies seeking WBE suppliers for specific opportunities. WBE companies were pre-selected for these meetings prior to the event; the meetings are by appointment only.

Women’s Business & Buyers Mart | 39

IT’S EASY TO STAND OUT when your ideas are as diverse as your employees. The blend of talents, backgrounds, ideas, and approaches unifies our commitment to serve and promote the health and wellness of our members and communities. It’s our employees who are the heart of our company, and it’s our differences that set us apart. We build a high-performance work culture that is successful and distinct. And we accomplish that by attracting, retaining and developing a diverse community of skilled, engaged and prepared employees. We hope you’ll join our diverse, inclusive and caring community.

www.bcbsil.com www.bcbsnm.com www.bcbsok.com www.bcbstx.com

To learn more about our careers, our procurement opportunities, our services, and our company, log on to our Web sites.

Divisions of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. EOE M/F/D/V

Workshop / Panel

Discussions Sponsored by

Cardinal Health; Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Kansas City, Minneapolis & St. Louis; Harley-Davidson Motor Company; Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC); Microsoft Corp.; RubinBrown LLP; Target Corporation; The University of Chicago; and The University of Chicago Medical Center The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) is a recognized leader in the development of innovative and effective programs that serve all stages of business owners. The same standards used to create the workshops presented year-round in our Center and throughout our nine-state Midwestern Region have been used to create the workshops presented at our annual Conference. Prior to the event, the WBDC hosted a workshop in each of the four major markets of our Midwest Region for all certified WBEs and event attendees, and we would like to thank our facilitator, Michelle Kantor, and our host sponsors of that workshop: Microsoft, Target, RubinBrown LLP and Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

Launching Your Own Business: From Dream to Reality Thursday, September 20, 2012 9:45 – 11:45 a.m. Breakout Room 180, McCormick Place-West Workshop for start-ups

Are you ready to turn your dream of business ownership into reality? Before you do, attend this dynamic session featuring inspiring women business owners who will present lessons they wished they known before starting their enterprises. Gain an insider’s perspective on financing your business as well. This stimulating, interactive session, designed by the collective intelligence of the women business owners in the WBDC community, will provide you with tools, inspiration and guidance to launch a successful business.

Moderator Meg Herman Director, Entrepreneurial Services, Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) Meg Herman helps strengthen women-owned businesses by connecting entrepreneurs with the WBDC’s counseling and training services, planning high-impact business development offerings for the Center, and reaching out to allied organizations to let emerging and established business know about WBDC services. Meg is a professional and corporate certified coach (PCC, CCC) and prior to joining the WBDC, she was the founding partner of a successful professional coaching and consulting practice, Managing Horizons, LLC, for over 10 years. Additionally, Meg has designed and facilitated adult learning opportunities for profit and nonprofit organizations for over 30 years.

Workshop / Panel Discussions | 42

2012 Workshop Panelists Priscilla Cordero Lending Team Manager, Accion Chicago Priscilla Cordero has been with Accion Chicago since 2007. As Lending Team Manager, she is responsible for assessing small business owners’ financing and technical assistance needs and guiding them through the loan process, developing relationships with partners and banks in the south suburbs of Chicago and Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana, and managing a team of loan officers. She has worked in the financial industry for more than a decade, including several years as a loan specialist at Women’s Business Development Center where she facilitated $1.9 million in financing for small business owners. Priscilla has a bachelor’s of science degree in economics with a concentration in economic development from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Teresa Ging Owner, Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique In 2006, with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago in economics and statistics and an established career in finance, Teresa Ging left her executive level position to attend Le Cordon Bleu Patisserie program in Paris. Upon completing the program, she returned to Chicago and set out to pursue a dream—to open a cupcake boutique. She spent eight months testing cupcake recipes and, in 2007, Teresa finalized the over twenty flavors in the Sugar Bliss cupcake collection and launched the catering and delivery side of the business. In January 2009, Teresa opened the first Sugar Bliss Cake Boutique in downtown Chicago, and in October 2011, Sugar Bliss opened its second location in River North. The sophisticated shops serve fresh specialty cupcakes baked from scratch daily in the kitchen, using only high quality, natural ingredients such as European cocoa, Nielsen Massey Pure Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla, and real strawberries, bananas and other fruit.

Toni Hunter Assistant Vice President, Business Banking Officer, PNC Bank Toni Hunter has over 10 years of experience in the financial service industry. She began her career at PNC in 2005 in their underwriting group focusing on companies with revenues between $10 - $50 million. She has a background in cash management and takes great pride in assisting businesses with cash flow options and financing alternatives. Toni spends the majority of her time working with companies with revenues between $1 - $10 million and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in various industries.

Lynn Sutton President, Kairos Consulting Worldwide Lynn Sutton founded Kairos Consulting Worldwide in 2004 to apply engineering principals to critical business processes, creating time and cost efficiencies that also reduce errors and increase quality. Citing Kairos’ success, Lynn was named “Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year – Rising Star” in 2006 by the Women’s Business Development Center. Among its recent accomplishments, Kairos produced $24 million in savings for the US Navy / Department of Defense, created 25 productivity improvements for Luthansa Technick and increased productivity by 40 percent within the IT division of Hospira Worldwide, Inc. Lynn is a national partner in Women Impacting Public Policy and a member of Women Presidents Organization.

Michelle Vondrasek Founder and President, Von Technologies Michelle Vondrasek seamlessly blends 20+ years of technical knowledge with a devotion to exceptional customer service that has positioned Von Technologies as an emerging leader in the information technology consulting industry. She leads the growth of her company through dynamic leadership, sustainable corporate practices, and a powerful system of teambuilding and sales. Michelle remains diligent in her pursuit of continued growth through serving many of the largest public and private companies throughout the United States.

Workshop / Panel Discussions | 43

WE GET DIVERSITY...... As a leading provider of technology solutions for business, healthcare, government and education, CDW makes valuing diversity an important priority. A diverse supplier network adds innovation to our business and helps us serve our customers best. Visit diversityatcdw.com to learn more.

116055

Solutions for your business

Ask The Experts

Thursday, September 20, 2012 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Breakout Room 181, McCormick Place-West Sponsored by Charter One Bank

Learn. Network. Grow. Ask the Experts is a dynamic session designed to help fuel your business growth. This speed business coaching session provides you with access to business experts ready to deliver high-level, cutting-edge strategies to fire up your enterprise. Learn: gain information from experts ready to help you build your business Network: meet other business owners tackling similar issues Grow: take your business to the next level The room will be set up with round tables that seat 10-12 people. Each table will be identified by a specific topic and the name of the expert speaking on that topic. Every twenty minutes the facilitator will signal the end of the session. At that time, rotate to another roundtable and seek out another expert.

Roundtable Experts Facilitator – Debbi Lyall Director of Certification, Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) Alternative Financing WBDC Boosting Sales Sandler Training, Selloquent Branding Your Business Futura Marketing Inc. Business Growth Through Peer Advisory Groups Vistage

It’s Everybody’s Business: Going Green Consolidated Printing Company and the Green Mama Legal Issues for Small Businesses Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. Marketing Smarts MGroup Worldwide, Inc.

Business Start-Up Essentials WBDC

The Measure of Business Success: Tracking Your Profits Osher & Associates, CPA

Cloud Computing: What You Need to Know Microsoft Corp. and Onshore Technology Group

Social Media 101 Janice Bond, Savant Savant

Federal Set-Asides for Women-Owned Small Businesses WBDC Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Technical Challenges: Run Your Business More Efficiently Microsoft Corp. and VIVA USA

High-Impact Public Relations Chris Ruys Communications

Using Your WBE Status to Sell to Corporations UPS and Overture Premiums & Promotions

Traditional Financing for Your Business WBDC, Citibank and SomerCor 504

Insurance 101 Janice Axelrod & Associates Inc.

Ask The Experts | 45

A great event inspires more than just the attendees. It inspires the entire community. At U.S. Bank, we are committed to making the communities in which we work and live a better place. Our commitment means supporting the programs and organizations that enrich the quality of life for our neighbors. Because when our community succeeds, everyone wins. Proud to support the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Development Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference

usbank.com Member FDIC

Get Down to

Business

Networking Reception Thursday, September 20, 2012 5:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7:00 p.m. Skyline Ballroom Terrace, McCormick Place-West Marquee Sponsors*

Corporate Reception Sponsor

Premier WBE Sponsors

Many of the top business owners of today cite networking and relationship building as two of the most important attributes to growing their businesses. Join us at this entertaining, wrap-up Reception where women business owners and corporate and government procurement representatives can connect in a relaxed, business setting. Peruse our magnificent Silent Auction items or bid on our premier Live Auction items, including airfare for two, courtesy of United Airlines, and a laptop and Office10 software, courtesy of CDW and Microsoft Corporation. Grab a bite to eat, a refreshing drink and relax after a long day on the tradeshow floor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or kick up your heels on our dance floor!

WBDC Milestones 66,000+ Clients Served 12,300+ Entrepreneurial Training Sessions $81 Million+ Financial Assistance Secured for Clients $900 Million+ Contracts Achieved with Procurement Assistance 1,400+ WBEs Certified Annually

Stay Connected! Follow @WBDC and use the official conference hashtag #ewc26.

11,000+ Business Counseling Sessions Held * T he Deluxe Corporation Foundation is serving in an Honorary Sponsorship capacity.

Get Down To Business Networking Reception | 47

Supplier Diversity Program

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Embracing the Economic Growth of Diverse Businessesâ&#x20AC;? The University of Illinois supports the growth and development of minority, female and persons with disabilities owned businesses! Mission: The mission of the University of Illinois Supplier Diversity Program is to expand procurement opportunities to businesses that have been historically underrepresented in the procurement process by increasing utilization of businesses owned by minorities, females, and persons with disabilities to twenty percent of allowable University expenditures. The University will accomplish this mission by providing the necessary resources, outreach activities, procurement system support, and engagement with faculty, staff, administration, and national and local business support and advocacy organizations to foster a quality, inclusive procurement supply chain for the University, and thereby strengthen the diversity of the University of Illinois community.

Guiding Principles: The University of Illinois Supplier Diversity Program will make the following principles the hallmark of our effort: Quality, Integrity, Transparency, Inclusivity, Innovation, and Cost Effectiveness.

Michael Bass Senior Associate Vice President and Deputy Comptroller

For more information, contact: FredColeman,III,PhD,PMP DirectorofDiversityUniversity OfficeofCapitalProgramsand RealEstateServices 807S.WrightStreet,Suite340 Champaign,IL61820 (217)244-1001 E-mail:sekou@uillinois.edu

Unique. Talented. Inspired. “

Women’s empowerment is about inclusion and doing the right thing. Mike Duke President and CEO, Walmart

”

ÂŠ 2012 Target Brands, Inc. The Bullseye Design is a registered trademark of Target Brands, Inc. 092308

Our suppliers are as diverse as the product on our shelves. At Target, we believe in suppor ting the communities where we all live. That means identifying and partnering with diverse businesses and the organizations that support them. When we work together to develop mutually beneficial business opportunities, we can all succeed. To learn more about our Supplier Diversity initiative at Target, visit Target.com/diversity.

General Conference

Information

Registration & Location Cermak Road

McCormick Place-West 2301 S. Indiana Avenue | Chicago, IL

W176c W176b W176a W175c W175b W175a

Access To/From Level 3

WP1 WP2 WP3

WS1 WS2

Service Corridor

North Staging Room

W178a

3,501 sq. ft.

W178b

W179b

1,932 sq. ft.

Parking Lot A

Access To/From Level 3

CC11b

W181a

2,091 sq. ft.

W181b

1,931 sq. ft.

W181c

Hyatt Regency Conference Center Available Upon Request

CC11a

WS3 WS4

CC10d

WF2

CC10c CC10b

2,009 sq. ft.

CC10a

W182

WP7

WP6

W183b W183c

WS7

4,195 sq. ft.

W184a

Access To/From Level 2 Conference Center WP9 WP8

Parking Lot A Entrance WS5

W190a

5,239 sq. ft.

W190b

2,012 sq. ft. WS8 WS9

East Staging Room

Indiana Avenue

2,292 sq. ft.

W184bc 4,280 sq. ft.

Service Corridor

4,280 sq. ft.

W185d

W194a

W186c

1,063 sq. ft.

1,992 sq. ft.

WP 13 WP 12

W187b

WF9 WF8

W195

1,712 sq. ft.

W196a

Gate 42

4,800 sq. ft.

W196b

Access To/From Level 3

4,743 sq. ft.

W196c

4,799 sq. ft.

Roadway to Lot A

WF11

W187c

1,482 sq. ft.

W194b

WF7

2,754 sq. ft.

1,012 sq. ft.

W186b

1,532 sq. ft.

W193b

WF6

2,292 sq. ft.

W186a

W193a

W192c

1,481 sq. ft.

Service Corridor

W185bc

W191

908 sq. ft.

W192b

2,935 sq. ft.

Service Corridor

W185a

2,292 sq. ft.

W192a

2,012 sq. ft.

2,014 sq. ft.

South Staging Room

W184d

2,292 sq. ft.

Access To/From Level 3

WF4

WS6

Service Corridor

4,662 sq. ft.

WF3

Service Corridor

Information

Prairie Avenue

Gate 40 Taxi Pick-up & Drop off

Transportation Center Gates 43 & 44 / Bus Pickup & Drop Off

1,058 sq. ft.

Service Corridor

Your badge is your admission to the Women’s Business & Buyers Mart, the tradeshow element of the Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. Tickets are required for all conference meals and receptions. Please wear your badge at all times. Meal tickets cannot be replaced; please present your tickets at the door of each luncheon.

CC12a

WF1

W187a

ID Badges & Tickets

CC12b

3,582 sq. ft.

Transportation

Parking is also available at McCormick Place-West. Please follow the signs to Lot A parking; garage level 4 is equal to building level 3 which is where our event is located. At this time, there are no discounts on parking.

CC12c

W180

W183a

Parking

Access To/From Level 2 Conference Center

Service Corridor

W179a

3,501 sq. ft.

Hyatt Offices Car Rental

CC12d

Service Corridor

1,932 sq. ft.

Prairie Avenue

1,639 sq. ft. 1,112 sq. ft. 1,658 sq. ft. 1,648 sq. ft. 1,106 sq. ft. 1,642 sq. ft.

4,755 sq. ft.

Due to the proximity of our host hotel for this year’s event, shuttle transportation will not be provided. Please follow the directional signs from the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, McCormick Place-West Parking Lot A, or the taxi drop-off area for McCormick Place-West (Gate 40, Indiana entrance) and the escalators (inside to the left) directly to the Skyline Ballroom for event registration.

M.L. King Jr. Drive

Gate 41 W177

784 sq. ft.

Service Corridor

Chicago’s McCormick PlaceWest is the official site of the WBDC’s 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. All scheduled events for this year’s conference will take place at McCormick PlaceWest. Registration is located outside of the Skyline Ballroom, on the 3rd floor of the facility, directly above the Gate 40 (Indiana Street entrance) taxi turn-around and drop-off point, and south of the McCormick Place-West Parking Lot A. Registration will open at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 20, 2012. All facilities are handicapped accessible.

WP14

WP15

Truck Ramp

1,871 sq. ft. 2,206 sq. ft. 1,893 sq. ft.

Coat & Luggage Check A complimentary coat and luggage check will be available for your use at the event; this will be located by registration outside of the Skyline Ballroom.

Lost & Found For misplaced articles, please visit the registration area outside the Skyline Ballroom.

General Conference Information | 51

Sponsor

Acknowledgements

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) extends its gratitude to the following entities for their commitment, consistent generosity and support to ensure the success of the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. Without them this conference would not be possible. (Companies listed are those committed as of August 2, 2012.)

Marquee Sponsors ($50,000 and up)

BP America, Inc. Deluxe Corporation Foundation* Nielsen

Premier Sponsors ($25,000 – $49,000) Allstate Insurance Company BMO Harris Bank CDW Citibank CNA ComEd Microsoft Corporation OfficeMax PNC U.S. Bank United Airlines – The Official Carrier of the WBDC UPS W.W. Grainger, Inc. Walgreen Co. WBE Premier Sponsors ($10,000+) Futura Marketing, Inc. INTREN, Inc. J&J Exhibitors Service, Inc. Kayhan International National Van Lines, Inc. Overture Premiums & Promotions LLC Smead Manufacturing Company VIVA USA

*The Deluxe Corporation Foundation is serving in an honorary capacity.

Sponsor Acknowledgements | 52

Major Sponsors ($15,000 – $24,000) AT&T Deere & Company Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Kraft Foods Macy’s MasterCard Worldwide Northern Trust Office Depot PepsiCo Inc. RubinBrown LLP Southwest Airlines Co. Staples Target U.S. Department of Energy University of Illinois Walmart Wrigley Workshop Sponsors ($10,000) Cardinal Health Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Kansas City, Minneapolis and St. Louis Harley-Davidson Motor Company Health Care Service Corporation/Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois The University of Chicago The University of Chicago Medicine WBE Sponsors ($5,000) The Bureau of Engraving Evergreen Supply Company KellyMitchell Group United Scrap Metal Premier Media Sponsors ($50,000 and up) Chicago Sun-Times Comcast Crain’s Chicago Business NBC5 Chicago Pioneer Press WVON Radio

Media Sponsors ($10,000 – $49,000) Black EOE Journal Enterprising Women Hispanic Network MBE MBE Connect Minority Business News USA (MBN USA) Minority Entrepreneur Professional Woman’s Project Eve Today’s Chicago Woman (TCW) U.S. Veteran’s Women’s Enterprise Magazine (WE USA) Official Carrier United Airlines Official Technology & Cyber Café Sponsors CDW Microsoft Corporation Official TV Sponsor NBC5 Chicago

Special Thanks Alto Tech Sue Bhatia Chicago Sun-Times Chris Ruys Communications Comcast Christie Hefner Hoopla Communications Michelle Kantor Levy Security Corporation McCormick Place Mindy Mercaldo Motorola Solutions, Inc. NBC5 Chicago Cheryl Pearson-McNeil Pioneer Press Lisa Price Laura Ricketts Allison Rosati Terry Savage SAVOR…Chicago at McCormick Place Richelle Shaw

26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference Staff & Vendors Conference Director, Logistical and On-Site Management: Mia M. Delano, Director of Development, Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) Conference Coordination, Registration and On-Site Management: Hoopla Communications and the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) Graphic Design: Futura Marketing Inc. Exhibitor Service: J&J Exhibitors Service, Inc. Photography: Jennifer Girard Photography Printing: Consolidated Printing Company The U.S. Department of Energy Public Relations: Chris Ruys Communications, Inc.

The Women’s Business Development Center and its Board of Directors also extends their gratitude to all exhibitors, advertisers, breakfast & luncheon table purchasers, auction donors, Contract Connections participants, vendors, and each and every individual that participated in the success of this year’s event – we could not do this without you!

Security: Levy Security, Inc. Sponsor Acknowledgements | 53

We’re committed to maximizing opportunities.

For over 120 years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to helping our suppliers, our clients and our community reach their full potential. That’s just one of the many reasons we proudly support the Women’s Business Development Center Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. For more information on Supplier Diversity visit northerntrust.com.

Wealth & Investment Management | Trust & Estate Services | Private Banking | Family Office Services

nt1021_WBDC_7.5x10.indd 1

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Work together

Win together

Supplier Diversity is a key to our success. For years, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve led the business world in supplier diversity, working with diversity-owned enterprises to provide products and services to AT&T around the world. Interested in joining us? Find out how at attsupplierdiversity.com.

When it comes to business insurance ... we can show you more.® CNA is proud to support the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Women’s Conference, Women’s Business & Buyers Mart. Insuring businesses like yours for more than 100 years. Visit www.cna.com for more information.

Partner

Organizations

The Women’s Business Development Center thanks the following organizations for their assistance in promoting the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. ACCION Chicago

Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA)

Ohio River Valley – Women’s Business Council POWER: Opening Doors for Women

Association of Women’s Business Centers

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Illinois Entrepreneurship Network – Small Business Development Center

Association of Women Professionals

Illinois Facilities Fund

Astra Women’s Business Alliance

Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Athena International

Illinois Institute for Entrepreneurship Education

Action for Children Alliance of Business Leaders & Entrepreneurs (ABLE)

Business & Professional Women – IL Center for Empowerment and Economic Development (CEED)

Illinois SBDC at Governors State University

Center for Urban Business – UIC

Illinois SBDC at Waubonsee Community College

Center for Women and Enterprise Chatham Business Association Chicago Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Chicago Innovation Awards Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. (CMSDC) Chicago United Chicago Women in Trades

Illinois SBDC at McHenry County College

Women Employed Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) Women In Bio, Chicago Chapter Women in Management, Inc.

Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO)

Industrial Council of Nearwest Chicago (ICNC)

Women’s Business Council – Southwest

Latin American Chamber of Commerce The Law Project

Little Village Chamber of Commerce

College of Lake County SBDC

Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation

Illinois Small Business Development Center at SIU Carbondale

Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center/ Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

City of Chicago, Office of the Treasurer

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Women Presidents’ Educational Organization (WPEO)

Lawndale Business & Local Development Corp.

City of Chicago, Department of Procurement Services

U.S. Department of Labor – Women’s Bureau

Illinois Small Business Development Center at Elgin Community College

Chicago Women Network

City of Chicago, Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection

Springboard Enterprises

Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA) National Association For Moms In Business (NAFMIB) National Association of Women Business Owners – Chicago (NAWBO-Chicago)

Womenetics Women’s Business Development Center – Florida Women’s Business Development Center – Minnesota Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance Women’s Business Enterprise Council – PA-DE-NJ Women’s Business Enterprise Council – Great Lakes Women’s Business Enterprise Council – South Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West (WBEC-West)

Coleman Entrepreneurship Center

National Association of Women Home Businesses

Downtown Chicago Business and Professional Women

National Council of Women’s Organizations

Federation of Women Contractors (FWC)

Network of Women Entrepreneurs

WomenVenture

Greater Women’s Business Council

NORBIC

YWCA Metropolitan Chicago

Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) Women’s Leadership Exchange

Partner Organizations | 57

The WBDC Board of Directors applauds the efforts of Hedy Ratner, Carol Dougal and their dedicated staff and consultants. We are proud to be working with them as they lead the way to greater opportunities for women and minority-owned businesses. WBDC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LEADING

the way…

new technology channels • Utilizing for programs and services programs and services • Expanding for established business owners sources of debt and • Delivering equity capital programs and services to • Bringing diverse communities equal access to business • Demanding opportunities for women and minorities

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Women’s Business Development Center 8 S. Michigan Avenue, 4th Floor Chicago, IL 60603 312.853.3477 www.WBDC.org

CHAIRPERSON

MEMBERS

Debra JenningsJohnson, Director, Supplier Diversity, BP America, Inc.

Laurel G. Bellows, Principal, The Bellows Group, P.C.

CO-PRESIDENTS Hedy M. Ratner, Co-President, Women’s Business Development Center S. Carol Dougal, Co-President, Women’s Business Development Center VICE CHAIRPERSON Linda Chaplik Harris, Partner, SNR Denton SECRETARY Pam McDonough, CEO, DeAngelo/ McDonough Construction Management Company TREASURER Sandra Rand, Former Supplier Diversity Manager, United Airlines AUDIT COMMITTEE CHAIR Norma Lauder, Director, MS Tax Program, University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign

Michelle Blaise, VP Engineering & Project Management, ComEd Alison Chung, President, TeamWerks Risa R. Davis, Senior Business Development Officer, Business & Commercial Banking Group, Citibank Illinois Emilia DiMenco, Chief Operating Officer, Women’s Business Development Center Jeanne Mandoza, Director of Marketing for Illinois, United Parcel Service (UPS) Arabel Alva Rosales, President, AAR & Associates, Ltd. Shelley Stern, Citizenship & Public Affairs Director, Microsoft Corporation EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Mellody Hobson, President, Ariel Investments, LLC and Chairman, Ariel Mutual Funds Board of Trustees Terry Savage, Financial Analyst and President, Terry Savage Productions, Ltd. Pamela B. Strobel

Women’s Business Development Center 8 South Michigan Avenue 4th Floor Chicago, IL 60603-3302 Tel: 312-853-3477 Fax: 312-853-0145 E-mail: wbdc@wbdc.org

The Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) – www.WBDC.org – is nationally recognized for its advocacy on behalf of small, women and minorityowned businesses, and for its responsive, innovative and effective programs. Now in its third decade of success, the WBDC serves entrepreneurs at all stages of development, from the home-based child care business to the established growth-oriented technology company, through targeted training; professional business counseling; financial assistance; and access to information and resources. The WBDC has a yearly client service base of approximately 3,500, certifies over 1,400 women-owned businesses annually as WBEs throughout its 9-state Midwestern region, and more than 4,500 women business owners participate in its events annually. Established in 1986, the WBDC has assisted over 66,000 women since its inception; has helped establish women’s business assistance centers in six states across the nation; and is a nationally-recognized leader in the development of programs and policies affecting women’s economic development and women’s business ownership. The WBDC operates a satellite office in Minneapolis (WBDC-MN), and delivers on-going programming for its WBEs in Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and St. Louis; and, the Chicago office also offers its programs and services in Spanish to better serve the diverse spectrum of business owners in the Chicagoland area. The WBDC is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. SBA’s Office of Women’s Business Ownership (OWBO); is a delegate agency of the City of Chicago, Department of Community Development; a grant recipient of Cook County, Bureau of Community Development; and a certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). As a member of the Illinois Entrepreneurship Network, the WBDC is an Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and an Illinois Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, the U.S. Department of Defense, and The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and is a proud partner of many corporations, foundations and contributors who help make our dreams a reality.

WBDC Staff & Consultants S. Carol Dougal Co-Founder & Co-President Hedy M. Ratner Co-Founder & Co-President Emilia DiMenco Chief Operating Officer Georgia K. Marsh Chief Development Officer Eva Brown Deon Crayton Freida Curry Mia M. Delano Carolina Diaz Rebecca Diaz Marlene Duran Natasha Fedorova Elizabeth Gardner Ellenie Girma Bethany Hartley Deborah Minor Harvey Richard Henderson Meg Herman Kelly Hinman Jo-Ann Hunigan Cynthia Johnson Danae Kovac Katie Lang Grace Lopez Janice Lopez Maria Lopez Debbi Lyall Teresa Prim Juanita Smith Peggy Smith Kristin Travis

Stay Connected!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/WBDC.Chicago Twitter: www.twitter.com/WBDC Blog: www.wbdcchicago.wordpress.com

WBDC Information | 59

maCy’s inC. is a prouD sponsor of the 26th annual WBDC entrepreneurial Women’s ConferenCe We salute the WBDC’s passionate commitment to women entrepreneurs.

Agricultural

Intelligent Solutions

Power Systems

Construction

Forestry

Worldwide Parts

John Deere Financial

Turf

Diversity in our products Diversity in our supply base â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through our supplier diversity program, we strive to incorporate diversity and inclusion into the workplace, community, our dealers and suppliers, so they are reflected in everything the company does.â&#x20AC;? Samuel R. Allen Chairman and Chief Executive Officer SupplierDiversity.Deere.com

BUSinESS

can’t

wait to move at the speed of opportunity. Comcast Business Services is proud to support the Women’s Business Development Center and the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. Comcast Business Class delivers a wide range of products and tools designed to provide you with the advanced business technologies to meet your needs, the scalability to grow with your business, and the value to save you money.

WHAT FILLS FIVE DAYS, AN ENTIRE CITY AND YOUR NEED TO SUCCEED? It’s coming soon and nothing short of spectacular — Crain’s third annual Small Business Week, an unprecedented week laser-focused on the interests of small businesses. Look for Crain’s editorial package on Monday, October 1 and a daily Small Business Newscast on ChicagoBusiness.com. Plus, join thousands of business owners attending dozens of educational, business developmental, and networking activities taking place across the entire Chicago area. This will be your best opportunity to gain valuable insights, initiate partnerships and relationships…until next year’s Small Business Week. Get immersed in a weeklong growth spurt for Chicago’s smartest small businesses. Sponsored by:

The Answer Is It’s coming October 1 – 5, 2012! To participate contact ccbevents@crain.com and visit ChicagoBusiness.com/SBW #SmallBizWeek

Perfect fit.

Diversity solutions for your unique needs. StaplesÂŽ Corporate Supplier Diversity Programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to promote and include Historically Underutilized Businesses in all levels of our supply chain. Supplier diversity strategies are designed to strengthen diverse suppliers within our communities, create new job opportunities and acknowledge the vision of these businesses nationwide. If you are interested in becoming a StaplesÂŽ supplier or to find out more information about our program visit StaplesSupplierDiversity.com.

Reaching

OUT

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is committed to promoting opportunities to women- and minority-owned businesses. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work together.

For more information, contact Mark Hands at 312-322-2968 or via e-mail at mark.hands@chi.frb.org www.chicagofed.org 230 South LaSalle Street Chicago, IL 60604-1413

Board of Commissioners Terrence J. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien President Barbara J. McGowan Vice President Cynthia M. Santos Chairman of Finance Michael A. Alvarez Frank Avila

The purpose of the Affirmative Action program at the District is to achieve equitable utilization of minority, women-owned and small businesses on District construction contracts. Affirmative Action goals are a component of any construction contract or design contract and design projects awarded by the District where the estimated expenditure is more than $100,000.

Patricia Horton Kathleen Therese Meany

For More Information, Contact:

Debra Shore Mariyana T. Spyropoulos

Affirmative Action Section Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

David St. Pierre Executive Director

111 East Erie Street 6th Floor Chicago, IL 60611 312.751.4035 www.mwrd.org

We know the importance of diversity.

We are a proud sponsor of WBDC. We’re committed to women-, minority- and disadvantaged-owned business development and to creating an inclusive environment with a variety of cultures, ideas and ethnicities. And with our great cars, valuable savings and convenient locations all over the world, we’re committed to making your travels easier, too.

For information on business opportunities, contact: Lynn Boccio, Vice President Avis Budget Group P.O. Box 4319 • Huntington, NY 11743 • Phone 973-496-2174 • lynn.boccio@avisbudget.com © 2012 Avis Budget Group, Inc.

22048

ionships with suppliers as Building relat r consumers and products u o s a e s r e v i d

At Kraft Foods, we seek suppliers as diverse as the variety of products we provide and the consumers who purchase them. Our supplier diversity initiative aims to develop strong business relationships with a talented group of minority and women-owned suppliers that offer quality products and services, excellent customer service and innovative business solutions.

For more information and to register in our diverse supplier database, please visit: www.kraftsupplierdiversity.com

Building Sharing partnerships opportunities

Inspiring success

The Ofﬁce Depot® Supply Chain Diversity Program consists of 3 dimensions:

Tier One

Supplier Diversity

Vendor Diversity

HUBs resell Ofﬁce Depot products. This program allows diverse businesses to buy products from Ofﬁce Depot, then resell them to other companies. What sets us apart from our competitors is the training and development we provide to our partners, leading to their long-term growth and economic viability.

HUBs sell directly to Office Depot for internal use. We’re committed to ensuring that our supplier base reflects today’s global marketplace. The Supplier Diversity Team diversifies Office Depot’s purchasing power and services, and has spent over $230 million with HUBs to date.

Office Depot customers buy HUB products from Office Depot. The new Office Depot HUB catalog features more than 1,600 items from HUB vendors, helping our customers fulfill their second-tier HUB spending requirements, and providing tools and information on advancing their own Supplier Diversity programs.

Historically Underutilized Business (HUBs) include: Certified Minority, Women, Disabled, Veteran, and Small [SBA 8(a), SDB, and HUB Zone] enterprises This symbol identifies products in our assortment that were originally manufacturated and/or distributed by a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). A historically underutilized businessis a business that has not historically had equal opportunities. Look for this symbol in Office Depot catalogs and online to find products that will help meet your diversity goals. The Office Depot name and logo are registered trademarks of The Office Club, Inc. © 2011 Office Depot, Inc. All rights reserved.

Smart Women. Sophisticated Advisors. Fredrikson & Byron — Counsel for Women

Counsel for Women, Fredrikson & Byron’s women attorney-led initiative, is a group of experienced business advisors focused on helping women business owners succeed. We are proud to support the Women’s Business Development Center and their Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference.

www.fredlaw.com

EMPOWERING DIVERSITY EVERY DAY At PepsiCo we create products that refresh the world, and our minority and women-owned suppliers drive creativity and innovation to our brands.

Learn more at pepsico.com.

ADVANCING OPPORTUNITY

ADVANCING COMMERCE

Coming together only makes us stronger.

Supplier Diversity

Our diverse supplier relationships enhance everyone’s business. As a recognized advocate of supplier diversity, MasterCard provides opportunities for businesses owned by minorities, women, and veterans, as well as small businesses, to participate in our procurement processes. It’s how MasterCard is helping to grow businesses and the communities around them. It’s how MasterCard is advancing commerce. Learn about our supplier diversity program and how it can strengthen your business at mastercard.com/supplierdiversity. ©2011 MasterCard. MasterCard and the MasterCard brand mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES SERVES LOW FARES TO MORE PLACES THAN EVER BEFORE ®

Southwest Airlines brings people together with flights to over 70 destinations.

Proud Supporter of the Women’s Business Development Center

rubinBrown

proudly supports the

Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Development Center

certified public accountants & business consultants www.rubinbrown.com

The Univ ersiT y of ChiCago is a proUd sponsor of w bdC’s 26Th a nnUa l enTr epr eneUr i a l wom a n’s Confer enCe.

from oUr Ca mpUs CommUniT y To oUr bUsiness parTners, The UniversiT y of ChiCago sUpporTs The enTr epr eneUr i a l wom an’s Confer enCe. To learn about opportunities for your business, contact: nadia m. Quarles assistant vice president of business diversity 6054 south drexel avenue, suite 445 Chicago, illinois 60637 773.702.2553 nquarles@uchicago.edu Office of Business Diversity C r e aT i n g e C o n o m i C o p p o r T U n i T i e s f o r m i n o r i T y- a n d wo m e n - ow n e d b U s i n e s s e s

At the Forefront of Building Healthy Communities The Urban Health Initiative (UHI) is the University of Chicago Medicine’s commitment—in partnership with civic leaders, community organizations, health care providers, and residents —to improve long-term health for people who live on the South Side of Chicago. UHI takes a comprehensive approach to improving South Side health through three main areas: > Patient Care A network of community health centers, free clinics and hospitals helps people access affordable primary care, so patients can regularly manage all their health needs. > Research Guided by the needs and values of South Side residents, UHI and its community partners are collecting information to learn what would help residents be healthier and thrive in their neighborhoods. > Education UHI programs expose medical students to the benefits of practicing in community health settings and provide free clinics and health education to members of the community.

For more information about the Urban Health Initiative, visit uhi.uchospitals.edu

American Airlines supports the efforts of the WBDC. Congratulations on your 25th Anniversary!

U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science

Chicago Office We are committed to increasing the contracting opportunities awarded to small and disadvantaged businesses, establishing goals, promulgating policy, and developing practices and programs to encourage and increase small business participation in departmental procurement opportunities, and guiding small and disadvantaged businesses through the process of contracting with the Federal government. Specifically, the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Utilization assists small disadvantaged, 8(a), women-owned, service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, and businesses located in Historically Underutilized Business Zones.

Special Offer!

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CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS IS A VERY BIG DEAL. We believe that women have the power to make a difference. That’s why we are proud to support the 26th Annual Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference. We salute the Women’s Business Development Center for the significant impact they make in Chicago’s business community.

Diversity: Together the extraordinary array of colors make up a masterpiece.

WE USA and WE Texas are honored to deliver the best in supplier diversity and inclusion to the nation. We are the number-one award winning magazine and website about women’s enterprise and diversity. We pride ourselves in “telling your story” because “your success is our success.”

www.weusa.biz

www.wetexas.biz

MBE magazine is proud to be a media sponsor of the 26th Annual Woman’s Entrepreneurial Conference and Women’s Business & Buyers Mart! ®

Get your news and information faster, MBE magazine is now available in digital format! Go to www.mbemag.com for a free preview. MBE ® magazine is a publication of Enterprise Publishing Inc.

Certified Minority Owned by:

To request a media kit, order a subscription, or contact our advertisers, go online to our website at www.mbemag.com, or call (310) 540-9398.

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There’s one woman in Chicago everyone wants to know.

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Enterprising Women is incredible. It leads the way for our growth and success – Barbara Kasoff, president and cofounder, Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP) Enterprising Women is inspirational. It touches my heart and my spirit – Sherri Orlowitz, first recipient of the Enterprising Women of the Year Award Enterprising Women has significantly contributed to improving the women’s business community and provided a strong network for women business owners to help one another succeed —Lynne Marie Finn, Superior Staff Resources, Inc. Thank you, Enterprising Women, for ten wonderful years of reaching, teaching and promoting women entrepreneurs – Janice Hamilton, JMH Education Marketing Enterprising Women’s vision is bold and courageous —brave enough to take on the “big boys” Susan Solovic, CEO/Co-Founder, SBTV.com Enterprising Women is making a difference in the world. All of us who are a part of it have grown into a strong community – Pat Laus, The Atlantic Club, Inc. Thank you, Enterprising Women, for your commitment to “going green” and sustainability. Working together, we are taking better care of our planet – Nancy Goshow, Goshow Architects

I’ve belonged to numerous organizations throughout my 20 years in business, but none has matched the experience of being a part of the Enterprising Women community – Harriet Diamond, author and management consultant Enterprising Women’s unwavering support has contributed to the success of numerous organizations, such as the Women’s Business Development Center, that have worked so hard to see to it that women thrive in their businesses. – Hedy Ratner and S. Carol Dougal, WBDC, Chicago Kudos to Enterprising Women for all it has done for women business owners in the United States and around the world! – Julie Weeks, Womeable Thank you to Enterprising Women for bringing together different organizations, ideas and avenues to strengthen the network of support for female entrepreneurs – Patricia May, Tembua: The Precision Language Solution

I look forward to many more years of reading Enterprising Women and taking part in this wonderful community the magazine has nurtured and developed – Karen Kerrigan, Women Entrepreneurs, Inc. Women writing articles for women—what a great concept! —Nicolina Stewart, Capital Management Advisors, Inc. Thank you, Enterprising Women, for your commitment to educating women in business on their road to success – Rosalie Edson, Meadows Office Furniture Company Enterprising Women has been integral to transforming the credibility of women business owners and their enterprises. It has brought together the community that supports women’s entrepreneurship in a collaborative and supportive environment and captured the attention of business leaders worldwide – Sharon Hadary, Sharon Hadary & Company

The community of

Enterprising Women has supported women business owners around the globe – Leslie Grossman and Andrea March, Women’s Leadership Exchange

I used to say that American women entrepreneurs were the luckiest women in the world because they had their own magazine. Now we in Latin America can read Enterprising Women online! – Yaeko de Hiraoka, Lima, Peru

women business owners reads

Thank you for elevating the status of women in the business and world community. Enterprising Women is an inspiration to me – Elaine Buxton, Confero

Enterprising Women Enterprising Women is a global treasure. We mark up every issue as we learn about new people and new areas of interest – Edie Fraser, Diversified Search Odgers Berndtson

Connect today

Enterprising Women has forged partnerships, recognized excellence, and brought much-needed visibility to women who are running amazing businesses – Jean Gianfagna, Gianfagna Strategic Marketing

Don’t miss a

Enterprising Women is a strong voice and a champion for women business owners –Sherri Macko, American Airlines Enterprising Women is a wonderful magazine—every issue has relevant content! –Diane DiResta, DiResta Communications

single issue!

nity of business owners that learn together, succeed together, and grow together. At a time when most women’s publications have failed, Enterprising Women has been a stable and influential force for women’s business enterprises. – Marsha Firestone, PhD, president and founder, Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO) Enterprising Women provides a tremendous network of support to women all over the world – Monique Honaman, ISHR Group Enterprising Women is the heartbeat of economic, social and political news for the women business owner community. This magazine leads the way! – Terry Neese, founder and president, the Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women (IEEW) Enterprising Women is a vital source of targeted information for women entrepreneurs, helping them grow and manage their businesses – Linda Denny, president, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) We’ve circulated Enterprising Women at our events around the globe. Women entrepreneurs everywhere find it inspiring. There is nothing else like it! —Irene Natividad, president and founder, Global Summit of Women Enterprising Women has been integral to transforming the credibility of women business owners and their enterprises. It has brought together the community that supports women’s entrepreneurship in a collaborative and supportive environment and captured the attention of business leaders worldwide – Sharon Hadary, Sharon Hadary & Company

Enterprising Women has made a difference in the lives of thousands of business owners across the Thank you for giving a voice to country, including one small busiand putting a face on successful ness owner in Cincinnati women business owners I used to say that American women – Patti Massey, Myca Multimedia & – Beverly Holmes, Center for entrepreneurs were the luckiest Training Solutions Subscribe today at Women’s Business Research www.enterprisingwomen.com. For advertising and marketing partnerships, women in the world I encourage my clients to not only contact Monica Smiley, Publisher/CEO at msmiley@enterprisingwomen.com or call 919-362- because they had their own magazine. Now we in Being a part of the Enterprising We applaud Enterprising Women’s but 1551. Enterprising Women is a women-owned read and Enterprising managed Women, publishing company, celebrating Latin America can read EnterprisWomen community has opened up spectacular accomplishments. contribute to its pages and share our 12th year helping to inspire and grow women-owned enterprises. ing Women online! an immense network of women to What the magazine has done is their expertise with colleagues all – Yaeko de Hiraoka, Lima, Peru me. I am proud to be a member of akin to ‘going to the moon and over the world the Enterprising Women commuback.’ Bravo! – Patty Briguglio, MMI Public nity – Amy Millman, Springboard Relations —Mary Ardapple, Apple’s Bakery, Enterprises Inc. Enterprising Women is a commu-

WBE Advertisers | 87

88 | WBE Advertisers

NVL 8.5x11 WBDC-EWC Ad 09:8.5x11 WBDC-EWC Ad 09

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long before diversity was in vogue national van lines led the way. . . The moving and storage business excels with a woman’s touch. And Maureen Beal, president and chairman, has been at the helm of National Van Lines for almost 20 years – long before diversity was a corporate standard.

National Van Lines, Inc. is a woman-owned business enterprise.

800-323-1962 www.nationalvanlines.com

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WBE Advertisers | 89

Your event. Delivered and show-ready. Associations and companies from around the nation trust J&J to produce their events. We are proud to serve these partners: • American Academy of Clinical Psychiatrists • American Medical Association • ASICS Junior Volleyball Championship • City of Chicago • Evangelical Lutheran Church in America J&J Exhibitors Service has been at the heart of the trade show industry for more than 80 years offering exceptional and comprehensive service that will make your event experience worry free.

• FC Business Intelligence • Fortune Fish Company • Kraft Foods

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90 | WBE Advertisers

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Electric Utility

Gas Utility

Contractors

Municipal/Co-ops

Renewables

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INTREN is proud to support the Entrepreneurial Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conference and all women who

Outperform. Everyday.

INTREN is a leader in the construction industry and a premier provider of electrical and gas services for utility companies, municipalities, developers and general contractors. Contact us at 815.923.2300 or online at www.intren.com

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WBE Advertisers | 91

“For over a decade, hard work, insight and authenticity have shaped who we are.

”

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Being Organized Never Looked So Good Fashion Collection by Smead®

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WBE Advertisers | 93

win win win.

Amazing candidates. No guesswork. It’s no trick. Just the way we do business. Which is probably why we’re one of the fastest growing technology recruitment companies in the country.

swoontech.com

TECHNOLOGY RECRUITING AND CONSULTING See what Swoon can do for you. Call us at 312.450.8700 or email Michelle at michelle.baker@swoontech.com. Swoon is a Certified Women’s Business Enterprise. © 2012 Swoon Technology Resources, LLC

94 | WBE Advertisers

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diverse solutions for the integrated workplace

CMY

With more than years of experience, Kayhan International is a trusted partner for commercial furniture. We help clients with workplace strategy and the critical activities relating to speculation, coordination and installation of furniture for corporations, education, healthcare and government facilities. Our focus is on providing a repeatable and tailored service model that ensures high quality, on-time and on-budget project delivery for our clients locally and globally.

kayhan.com

a Haworth preferred dealer

96 | WBE Advertisers

MANUFACTURER

Surfactants, Lubricants and Chemical Intermediates CEDAR CONCEPTS currently works with some 500 generally sought formulations of which most are solids and liquids used in a wide variety of personal care and household products, or to aid metalworking, agricultural or aerospace processes, marketed under many brand names familiar to both consumers and businesses. MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS: Alkanolamides • Amine Oxides Betaines • Blend Concentrates Custom Blends • Fatty Acid Esters Fatty Alcohol Blends • Fatty Alcohol Emulsifying Blends • Methyl Esters Metal Lubricants • Sulfonates Sulfosuccinates SERVICES: Contract Manufacturing, Flaking and Pastillating

www.cedarconcepts.net Chicago, Illinois

773-890-5790

ISO 9001:2008

MBE/WBE Certified

WBE Advertisers | 97

Our innovative recycling programs keep untreated mercury out of landfills, ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment. • • • • •

EverMail Recycling Pak Program Fluorescent Lamp Recycling & Bulk Pick-ups Electronics Recycling Hazardous Waste Disposal Energy-efficient Lighting & Services Kelly Gallagher, President EverLights

EverLights ● 9901 S. Torrence Avenue ● Chicago, IL 60617 ● WBE Phone (773) 734-9873 ● Toll-free 877-934-9873 ● Fax (773) 734-9874 ● www.everlights.com ● info@everlights.com

98 | WBE Advertisers

EMPLOYERS Low, Disclosed Margin Highly Qualified Candidates Project-Based Outsourcing

SOLUTIONS GROUP Web Application Development Mobile Application Development Business Intelligence Business Process Design

JOB SEEKERS Transparent Bill Rates Diverse Client Opportunities On-Site and In-House Projects

Your friends at

a promise of integrity a commitment to service a partner in your profitability

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WBE Advertisers | 99

Congratulations to the WBDC for empowering women for over a quarter century!

Ad Index Allstate Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

MBE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

American Arilines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

AT&T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Microsoft Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 (Mart Directory). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Avis Budget Group Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

6 BP America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Cardinal Health. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 CDW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Cedar Concepts Corporation (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Charter One Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Chicago Sun-Times. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Citibank, N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 CNA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Comcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 ComEd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Consolidated Printing (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Crain’s Chicago Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Deere & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Deluxe Corporation Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Enterprising Women Magazine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Evergreen Supply Company (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 EverLights (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Federal Reserve Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Futura Marketing (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 Goldman Sachs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Grainger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Health Care Services Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 INTREN, Inc. (WBE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 J&J Exhibitors Service, Inc. (WBE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Kayhan International (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 KellyMitchell Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Kraft Foods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Macy’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 MasterCard Worldwide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 BMO Harris Bank N.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ad Index | 100

National Van Lines, Inc. (WBE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Navistar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

2 The Nielsen Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Northern Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Office Depot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 OfficeMax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Olive Publications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Overture Premiums & Promotions LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 PepsiCo, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Pioneer Press. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 PNC (Mart Directory). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 RubinBrown LLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Smead Manufacturing Company (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Southwest Airlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Staples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Swoon Technology Resources, LLC (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Target Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 TCW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Technology Partners, Inc. (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 United Airlines (Mart Directory) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 United Scrap Metal (WBE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 The University of Chicago. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 The University of Chicago Medical Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 University of Illinois. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 UPS (Mart Directory). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 U.S. Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 U.S. Department of Energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 VIVA USA, Inc. (WBE). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Walgreens (Mart Directory). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Walmart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 WE USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Women’s Business Development Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Wrigley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 WVON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 NBC5 Chicago. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Notes

Notes | 101