Sixteen businesses representing the Valley and Prescott were honored last night for their participation in the 10^th class of the APS Academy for the Advancement of Small, Minority and Women Owned Enterprises (AAAME).

They join the more than 130 other Valley businesses, which, over the past 10 years have been helped by the nationally recognized Academy in developing the attributes required for a successful business and community leadership.

Launched in 1997 by APS, AAAME is a two-year mentoring program that combines business skill training with one-on-one advising. AAAME is about the successful implementation of solid business practices, utilizing a wide variety of delivery methods and the continual assessment of each AAAME participant’s progress in the program.

“APS realizes that the health and vibrancy of our Arizona economy starts with the businesses that frame our communities,” said Rena Huber, director of AAAME. “This year’s AAAME graduates exude intelligence, heart and vision – we know they are destined for greatness.”

AAAME is a collaboration of many individuals and community partners. The AAAME participants – or CEO’s – receive peer-to-peer networking, resources and training in such areas as strategic planning, finance, management/operations and marketing. The Academy is free to those accepted. The graduating companies represent various industries from across the state.

The graduates were honored last night at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. They included:

• All About Catering, Goodyear; owners: Julia Aldana & Ginny Solis
• Arizona Carpet and Restoration, Phoenix; owner: Russ VanAllsburg
• Arizona Color, Phoenix; owner: Jim McClure
• Catalyst Computer Technologies, Chandler; owners: Steve Jaramillo & Ed Garay
• C Bar C Doggie Dude Ranch, Prescott; owners: Shelly & Dan Gilliam
• Cook Remodeling & Custom Construction, Mesa; owners: Janet & Jeff Cook
• Desert Powder Coating, Phoenix; owner: Josh Ambroson