Writer Proven Media
Photographer Jim David Photography

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce honored the annual Celebration of Excellence Award recipients for 2017 to spotlight outstanding members of the chamber. This year’s ceremony took place at Venues Café in Carefree.

Recognized this year, as nominated and voted upon by their peers, are Dr. Debbi Burdick, superintendent of the Cave Creek Unified School District; Jen Miles of Tech4Life; and the Sonoran Arts League.

“The awards are given those individuals and businesses who provide outstanding camaraderie, fellowship, business excellence, and accomplishments to our community,” said Patty Villeneuve, president and CEO of the Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce.

We asked each winner to tell us why he or she liked being a member of the Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce and what the award meant to them. Here’s what they said:

Dr. Debbi Burdick

CCUSD Superintendent

Award: Impact Award

“Being a chamber member provides not only camaraderie with our business community, but the opportunity to network and interact with them. I can share with them about our wonderful schools and they can share with me opportunities for students, as well as what they need the schools to be emphasizing for our future workforce. I am so grateful to our chamber for the scholarships they provide for our students who intern in our community businesses and the strong support of our public schools.

Winning the Impact Award was truly humbling. I believe we all do what we can to impact our amazing community and many, many people in our towns make such a difference. To be chosen for something this significant was an honor. I feel lucky to be able to serve on such an impactful organization.”

Pat Bell-Demers

The Sonoran Arts League

Award: Business of the Year

 “Why do we like being a member of the chamber? One simple phrase: Community Connection! Being a member of our local Chamber of Commerce is a partnership with other businesses and community supporters, and it’s a true benefit to your business and your personal life. It’s about gaining friends, associates and even advocates.

The public and local businesses are experiencing first-hand the vision of the Sonoran Arts League, which supports and serves our community by nurturing a culture of creativity. The hard work of our member volunteers and artists is recognized by this award, and our impact out in the community is great.”

Jen Miles

Tech4Life

Award: Ambassador of the Year

“Before becoming a member, I actually worked at the chamber for two years. Because I understood what the chamber is for small business, when I started my own business, joining the chamber was my first investment in my future. Without the chamber, I would not have been able to build my business and ultimately merge my business with Steve Woods at Tech4Life. I could not have done any of it without being involved with the chamber.

Winning Ambassador of the Year was actually a total shock. We have such a great group of leaders in our community as ambassadors that I am so humbled to have won this award.”