(PHOENIX, Ariz., Sept. 27, 2004) - On Thursday, Oct. 21 members of the Phoenix College Alumni Association Board of Directors will present the History Makers 6th Annual Alumni Hall of Fame Induction Dinner and Silent Action. The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the Phoenix College Culinary Café.

During the event, 11 prominent individuals will be honored and recognized for their contributions to the college and community. From the well-known producer of The Waltons to the President & CEO of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona, these local and national standouts will be applauded for their talent and dedication.

Below are the 2004 inductees and their biographical sketches.

Rod Peterson - Class of 1941: Rod has had a long and distinguished career in the television industry as a writer and producer. Born in Phoenix, Rod started his career in local radio then moved onto Los Angeles to work as a writer for CBS and NBC. For four decades, Rod wrote for such well-known television series as Bonanza, Emergency, Falcon Crest, and The Waltons, which he also produced.

Dick Norton - Class of 1949 and Patty Norton - Class of 1950: As Phoenix natives and proud graduates of Phoenix College, Dick and Patty have both made an indelible mark in the community and have worked hard to elevate the profile of the PCAA and the Half-Century Club since they first became involved as members of the Half-Century Club board of directors more than five years ago. Dick has built a successful career as an entrepreneur and professional in the financial planning field for more than 50 years, and Patty has served her community both in California and Arizona as a tireless volunteer.

Andy Chuka, Jr. - Class of 1955: Andy grew up in a Phoenix printing family, first setting type at age 12. Andy went on to excel in a career in the printing industry and is recognized as a respected leader in the field. In addition to having an accomplished career, Andy has been an active community member, having served as a Rotarian for 40 years, the Phoenix Thunderbirds (Lifetime Member), and the US Jaycees.

Ed Chilleen - Class of 1958: Ed has spent a lifetime as an entrepreneur and restaurateur. Today he owns and operates "The Satisfied Frog", a popular eatery in Cave Creek, and is the brewer of the world famous "Chili Beer." As a businessman, he has survived the highs and low of owning and operating a successful business.

Ed Mell, Jr. - Class of 1963: Ed, a Phoenix native, has built a prominent career as a national and world-renowned artist. Known best for his oil paintings depicting southwest landscapes, Ed has also built a following for his bronze sculptures. Collectors across the nation and the world seek his work and Ed has been exhibited in numerous museums.

Dr. Wil Counts - Class of 1967: Wil is a graduate of Phoenix College, Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. Wil has received numerous awards and recognitions over the years, including being a National Health Professions Scholar and receiving the Carnation Teaching Incentive Award. He has been a respected faculty member in the Maricopa Community Colleges for more than 25 years and has been an active volunteer in the African-American community.

Richard Boals - Class of 1975: As President & CEO of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona, Richard is recognized and respected as one of Arizona's top business and community leaders. His appointment as President & CEO of the organization in 2003 was the culmination of 30 years of dedicated work with the company. Richard is actively involved in the community and affiliated with numerous professional and community organizations, including the Arizona Town Hall, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, and the Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation.

Judge Rachel Torres Carrillo - Class of 1976: Rachel is an advocate and leader for the community who "walks her talk" and has earned the respect of the community. Her priority is to improve the system within the judicial courts and promote education and leadership for Latinas and Latinos everywhere. A Phoenix native, Rachel has over 25 years of dedicated service to the social service field and has served as West Phoenix Justice of the Peace for over six years.

Dr. John Hardaway - Faculty Honoree: The late John Hardaway was an alumnus of PC and respected member of the English faculty for more than 30 years. Originally from Chicago, John came to Phoenix at age 13. Prior to his tenure at PC, John served in the US Air Force during the Korean War and taught for the Phoenix Union High School District. John was a strong positive role model to students and associates alike.

Dr. Monica Lowe - Faculty Honoree: Monica's never ending passion and love for serving students have made her one of PC's most admired faculty members. For more than 25 years, she has inspired high school and college students by helping them succeed and achieve their goals. Monica has been a member of the PC Counseling department faculty since 1984, and looks forward to many more years of serving students.

For more information about or to become a member of the Phoenix College Alumni Association, please call (602) 285-7667. For tickets to the 6th Annual Phoenix College History Makers Hall of Fame Induction Dinner & Silent Auction, please call (602) 285-7667.

The Phoenix College Culinary Café is located on the Osborn Campus on 11th Ave. between Osborn and Thomas.

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