I usually do not dwell on past issues of the “Langston,” but last month’s issue that featured our namesake Langston Tabor, was very moving for me. We featured seldom-seen pictures of Langston and told the story of his life and commitment. It was a wonderful reminder of who and what we are. Our mission is to live up to the ideals of Langston Tabor. Growing our businesses, assisting those who want to start businesses and being an asset to the minority community is our mission.

In carrying out our mission, we sponsor an annual Gala where we raise funds for scholarships, discounted office space and other projects to promote minority businesses. Mark Saturday, September 24 for this year’s Gala from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Seattle Waterfront Marriott. There will be lots of networking and reconnecting at the event especially because we’ve not had one for a few years now. The Gala is one of the most exciting and rewarding Tabor activities for me personally. While we hope to fundraise for the event, it is also important for all of us to recommit ourselves to selfless service. I encourage you to purchase a table or two, bring family and friends and celebrate with us. And if you want to be on the “inside” and help plan this extravaganza, contact Darci Henderson at [email protected]

I would be remiss if I also didn’t urge you to be an attendee, or possibly a sponsor, of the Regional Contracting Forum, sponsored this year by WSDOT and Sound Transit. The event takes place Wednesday, September 21 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center, 1500 Commerce St., Tacoma 98402, and features a matchmaker event in which smaller businesses have the chance to spend quality time with larger firms explaining their capabilities and determining whether they are a match. Contact Yolonda Brooks at [email protected]

As I always end my President’s messages, I want to encourage each of you to become active in Tabor 100. We are committed to community and can use your talents to continue to grow our organization and by getting involved, it can help your business. We have several active committees and you can find our committee chair’s contact information in this newsletter and are always looking for volunteers. We are only as good as our members and their involvement in the organization.