'I'd like to thank ...'.

It's awards season, and with the procession of glitzy ceremonies come acceptance speeches--lots of them. But not only show biz folks take home trophies; honors are doled out in many professions. So the Business Journal asks:

If you had to give an acceptance speech, who would you thank and why?

Norbert H. Chung

Executive Vice President, Western Region Gallagher Benefit Services Inc.

First and foremost my family, both my parents, for giving me the opportunity, education and the environment to develop my skills to perform in the business community and the community overall. And my immediate family for the support they give me in the long hours and efforts I have to put forth in my career. I also must give credit to an industry with tremendous opportunities, albeit not without challenges.

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Fred Gaines

Managing Partner Gaines and Stacey LLP

My wife and my parents and all the people that I work with. They're the ones that make me look good. I think the key to any successful person is the support system they have behind them.

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Bobby Weisman

Owner Bobby Weisman Caterers

In my business, with the hours that I keep, I would have to thank nay wife and family for putting up with me. I work a lot. As a caterer, we're the equivalent of firemen. When the phone rings, we have to go, no questions asked. I would also thank some of my vendors who bring me product at the spur of the moment. Many times I have to feed 150 people with only a few hours notice, and my vendors save my neck.

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Jeremy Davies

Chairman British American Business Council

Of course my parents, for teaching me the discipline for work, stretching myself and applying myself to the issues I face in business and in other ways. My parents also taught me to enjoy life and always keep a sense of humor. I grew up England in the war years and you've got to keep history in mind, so I think I would also thank historical figures that I admire, like Churchill.

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Ryan Marker

Manager Vidiots

I would thank my film school teacher because he's smarter than I am. I think I'd also thank my parents. And I'd thank all of the great directors before me and name every one of them, including Oliver Stone, Martin Scorsese and God, the greater director of all.

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Michaela Pereira

Morning News Anchor KTLA Morning News

It has taken a village to raise this child. First and foremost. I'd thank my parents who adopted me at the age of three months and sent me in this direction. I'd also thank Li'l Kim for reminding me that it's always best to keep the girls covered in public and on stage. I'd also thank all journalists of color who went before me and Peter Jennings because he's Canadian, as am I. Finally, I'd thank Moyra Rodgers, a friend who insisted I consider a career in broadcasting.

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