Nilda, Blanca and Monica (right) at Capital of Texas Small Business Awards. Congradulations El Sol y La Luna for winning Food & Beverage Award!
Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted their Capital of Texas Awards Luncheon, recognizing seven small businesses or organizations on their business accomplishments in their respective fields and in their contribution regarding community service. The program commenced with keynote speaker Republican judge Eva Guzman and had Secretary of State Esperanza “Hope” Andrade as special presenter.
Winners with sponsors for the following categories are as follows:
Rising Star Award sponsored by Texas Gas Service: Campus2Careers matches students and recent graduates with small and medium-sized for internships, entry level jobs, and etc. through their online career community started by Jay Whitchurch and Nathan Green.
Food & Beverage Award sponsored by U.S. Foodservice: El Sol y La Luna combines visual arts, live music, and award winning Mexican food. Nilda de la Llata has worked closely with various local nonprofits including Latinitas, Gen Austin, Las Comadres, and Austin Music Foundation. Nilda is known for her welcoming phrase, “ Come by and experience this wonderful world of Art, Music and Delectable Sol Food for your Soul!”
Media Award sponsored by General Motors: Austin Woman Magazine debuted by Melinda Maine Garvey in September of 2002 is a free monthly magazine that salutes women in Austin. The publication has sponsored several organizations like Girl Scouts, Wonder & Worries, and the Junior League.
Healthcare Award sponsored by United Healthcare: People’s Community Clinic has provided high quality, affordable healthcare to the medically underserved and uninsured of Central Texas since 1970. The clinic encourages several programs like regular medical care through well child check-ups to minimize Emergency Room use. Patients have access to quality prenatal care, immunizations, social work, and chronic disease management.
Retail Award sponsored by !Ahora Si!/The Statesman: WhiteFire Diamonds and Fine Jewelry, founded partner Joseph Villarreal with over 20 years experience, is a premier online web store for jewelry ranging from engagement rings, wedding bands, and custom designs.
Service Award sponsored by Wells Fargo: Offices of Marc Rodriguez-Government Relations Firm are professional advocate for public policy issues that include utility regulation, infrastructure, healthcare and natural resources. Mr. Rodriguez currently serves as a board member on the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, The Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Austin Area Research Organization, and is past chair of the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Nonprofit Award sponsored by Time Warner cable/Time Warner Business Class: The Settlement Home, founded 1916, premiere children’s agencies in Texas with a day nursery for impoverished working families, has on-site school for children unable to function in a public school setting, and a Therapeutic Foster Home Program.
By Monica Pena
Austin Times Staff
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