The Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) recently held its annual luncheon, which included the chamber's 2017 annual report, the founding story of Southwest Airlines and award presentations.  

GPCC President and CEO Todd Sanders shared the chamber's successes of the past year, according to a press release. He also presented the chamber's plans and priorities for the upcoming year.

Southwest Airlines Senior Vice President Air Operations and Director of Operations Craig Drew gave a presentation on the founding of the airline and the secret of its success. Southwest's dynamic culture encourages loyalty in its employees, he said according to the release.

The inaugural "Chamber Champions" were recognized at the luncheon. Michelle Bolton of Cox Communication, Russ Johnson of Merchants Information Solutions and Jeff Stelnik of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona were honored for their dedication to the chamber and its mission of promoting regional prosperity, according to the release.

The chamber also awarded the President's Award for Distinguished Service to David Bruno of ZRG Partners LLC for his passion and service to the chamber. The award is not an annual award and is only given when a chamber member deserves special recognition, the release said.