Secretary of State Jesse White was featured speaker at Better Business Bureau’s 85th Annual Dinner

CHICAGO, IL – Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White was the featured speaker at the 85th Annual Dinner Meeting of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago & Northern Illinois (BBB) on Thursday, March 15 at the Hilton Palmer House Hotel. He spoke on the importance of his office’s efforts to maintain and enhance an ethical marketplace for buyers and sellers. He also discussed the value of the BBB mission and the fact that ethical business actions are good for business and citizens especially in today’s economic climate.

“It is an honor for the BBB to have Mr. White speak on the critical importance of ethics,” said Steve J. Bernas, president & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “Jesse White’s years of experience as Illinois Secretary of State provides him with a diverse platform of service to Illinois residents. This combination makes him uniquely suited to speak on the topic of business operations and ethics.”

The 85th Annual Meeting of the BBB was emceed by Allison Rosati and Rob Stafford, news anchors for NBC 5 Chicago. Following the dinner, the BBB awarded the coveted Torchbearer of the Year Award to Doris Christopher, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of The Pampered Chef, Ltd. This award is presented annually by the BBB to recognize the efforts of an individual business leader in the community. 

“We are especially appreciative of the excellent work Doris Christopher has done for the BBB during the past several years,” noted Bernas. “We are equally grateful to our generous sponsors who help keep this event prospering year after year.”

Several other award presentations were made, including the Diogenes Award for Excellence in Media to Jon Yates to honor his exceptional work as writer of the popular “What’s Your Problem” column in the Chicago Tribune.

Bernas said: “The BBB Diogenes Award for Excellence in Media is presented to the news person who exemplifies the goals and principles of the Better Business Bureau to support and foster an ethical marketplace benefiting both consumers and businesses.”      

Attorney Shimon B. Kahan was recognized as Better Business Bureau Arbitrator of the Year for the BBB. Kahan’s efforts include the preparation and trial of civil matters with an emphasis in truck-transportation, premises liability and claims brought against retail business owners, manufacturers, and construction companies.

Special Membership Awards were presented to Airoom Architects & Builders of Lincolnwood, Danley Garage World of Northbrook, and Mayer Brown LLP of Chicago.