Table of Contents Ronald E

Ronald E. Harrison- 2014 All Nominees (alpha order), Answers to all supporting documentation questions Table of Contents Ronald E. Harrison Snap Shot grid………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….2

Question 1: Detail your professional achievements ...... 4

Question 2: How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable business strategy, and its positive visibility? ...... 8

Question 2a: How have your achievements helped to promote diversity within your organization and/or the franchise industry?...... 11

Question 3: List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held at IFA ...... 15

Question 4: List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community ...... 16

Question 5: Detail your history of community involvement ...... 18

Question 6: Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the positive awareness of franchising ...... 22

Question 7: Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with which you have been affiliated ...... 24

Question 8: Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its consideration of you as an honoree ...... 25

Question 9: Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association and/or the franchising industry? ...... 27 2014 Ronald E. Harrison Award Documentation

Nominee Name Rafael Alvarez Rick Davidson Lowell Hawthorne Ed Krafchow

Title President & CEO President & CEO President & CEO Chairman & CEO Century 21 Real Estate Golden Krust Caribbean Better Homes and Gardens Company Name ATAX Franchise, Inc. Real Estate-Mason McDuffie LLC Bakery and Grill Real Estate Founder Yes No Yes No (Yes/No) Industry Accounting/Tax Services Real Estate Services Food: Caribbean Real Estate Services Units (number of 40 3700 114 units per brand) N/A Years in

Franchising 7 41 16 N/A (company) IFA Leadership

Positions: None None None None

IFA Committees None None None as of now None FranPAC donor N/A No No No since 2006 No/ Omar Hawthorne my son and Franchise Development Manager CFE (Yes/No) No No graduated as a Certified Franchise No Executive IFA Educational

Foundation No N/A No No

Nominated By: Supplier Franchisor Franchisor Corporate Supplier Firm

2014 Ronald E. Harrison Award Documentation

Nominee Name Sue Thirlwall Anthony Lolli Kendal Tyre Title Founder & CEO President & CEO Partner Rapid Realty Franchise, Company Name MiniLuxe Nixon Peabody LLC Founder No (Yes/No) Yes No Health Aides and Industry Real Estate Services Services Law Units (number of 60 3 units per brand) 16 Years in Franchising 5 3 (person and 18 company) IFA Leadership

Positions: None None None

IFA Committees None None None FranPAC donor No No No since 2006 CFE (Yes/No) No Enrolled Plan to enroll this year IFA Educational N/A Foundation No No Nominated By: Franchisor Franchisor Supplier-Law Firm

Affiliated Questionnaire Response No. 1 Nominee Company Detail your professional achievements Graduated from City College of the City University of New York 1991 in Computer Science. Founded the first Franchise in the Tax Preparation Industry owned by a Latino 1n 2007. ATAX Franchise, Build one of the Largest Tax Preparation Practice in the USA preparing more than 10,000 personal tax Rafael Alvarez Inc returns and about 500 corporate tax returns. Lest than 0.5% Tax Preparer and Accountant has accomplished this in the USA.

Rick was appointed president and chief executive officer of Century 21 Real Estate LLC in February 2010. In his role, Davidson leads the world’s largest residential real estate sales organization of approximately 7,100 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 74 countries and territories worldwide with more than 100,000 sales professionals. He has served in franchise senior executive roles since 2006, and prior to that was a franchise owner of a Commercial company in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Prior to his current post, Rick served in a dual capacity as chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Real

Estate LLC (CB) and as president and chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates. In Rick Davidson Century 21 Real this role, he was responsible for overseeing the Coldwell Banker residential franchise operations on a Estate global basis after having led the brand’s commercial operations since May 2006. Specifically, he was responsible for directing the operations, field services, education, and mortgage services programs across this global residential real estate network.

During his tenure with CB, Rick received several national awards, including Manager of the Year in 1994 and 1996, and the J. Frank Mahoney and James Didion Chairman’s Leadership Award for Real Estate Excellence in 1997, 1998 and 2000

Founder, President and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and its affiliates since 1989. Golden Krust is a world renowned baking empire engaged in the manufacture, wholesale and retail distribution of Jamaica style fresh breads, pastries, Jamaican Style Patties, Marinated Jerk Chicken, exotic seasoning, sauces and other Caribbean products.

Golden Krust Transformed Golden Krust into a highly profitable brand to achieve revenue in excess of $100M annually; Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean maintaining steady growth rate. Bakery and Grill In 1996 Golden Krust in its ambitious quest to carve out its own niche in the market place for Caribbean products sought and gained its license to franchise, becoming the first Caribbean food concept store to be granted a franchise license in the United States as well as the first Caribbean minority-owned franchise operation to offer immigrants the opportunity to accomplish their American dream of becoming business owners. Today, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill operates over 100 restaurants. Expanded product reach beyond franchising through rapid growth of hand held frozen food segment. Lowell Hawthorne Golden Krust Customers include club stores, retail chains (supermarkets) Institutions and alternate channel stores. (cont.) Caribbean Clients are located the Eastern, Western and Mid West United States and include , Costco, Sam’s Bakery and Grill Club. Pathmark, Dollar Tree: 7-Eleven, and Shop Rite.

In 1984, I began my career as a part-time agent at the real estate agency, Mason-McDuffie. The company, which was always known for its pioneering spirit, was a great fit for me because I’ve always been one to thrive on challenges. When I bought the company in 1991 the industry was in the midst of an economic downturn and new newest technology that we are accustomed to today was just starting to reach the consumer market. I knew the biggest challenge for me was to look down the road and make the decisions that would affect the future of our business. In 2010, Mason-McDuffie aligned with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate to become the 19th largest real estate services firm in the nation, and fourth overall Better Homes throughout the Bay Area. and Gardens Ed Krafchow Real Estate Mason McDuffie Under my guidance, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Mason-McDuffie has grown to over $3 billion Real Estate in annual sales, with more than 1,200 agents and 30 offices.

The success of my career has been highlighted by three specific accomplishments: growth of the company, technology innovation, and a focus on training agents to meet our consumer needs. I have been closely involved in the development of the company’s proprietary WebTop Intranet, a technology platform that has generated leads and created efficient business processes for our sales associates. I started my own real estate company--the original Rapid Realty--in 1998 at the age of 21. The NYC real estate market at the time was entirely focused on Manhattan sales, but I chose to specialize in outer borough rentals, an underserved and overlooked market. Unlike the few other companies that even handled apartment rentals at that time, I put rentals front and center and worked at all ends of the economic spectrum, not just the most expensive luxury properties.

With just one location, Rapid Realty became Brooklyn’s top rental firm. And in 2009, I broke away from the rest of the industry once again. It was the height of the recession, and real estate companies were hurting. Rapid Realty But because Rapid Realty specialized in rentals, the one sector of the real estate industry that booming, we Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC were able to expand when competitors were closing down offices left and right.

In NYC, most real estate companies expand by opening corporate-owned branches. But, after doing extensive research, I chose to expand by franchising. Today, Rapid Realty is a 100% franchise company, with 45 franchises up and running, and another 20 currently underway. We’re one of the largest real estate companies in New York, and we opened franchises in San Diego and Boston at the end of 2013.

In 2013, I was named Entrepreneur of the Year in the Golden Bridge Awards and won the Silver Stevie in the Real Estate Executive of the Year category of the International Business Awards. I won the “franchise lottery” at age 15 for an early pioneer franchisee of an iconic brand (Shakey’s Pizza). Working at Shakey’s was life altering as I spent most of my adult life focused primarily on franchisees and/or the franchisor.

I graduated from USC in business (magna cum laude) while working 2-3 jobs year-round. After five years at the Chicago Tribune in key staff positions including Retail Sales Manager, I earned an MBA at Harvard Business School. After management consulting, I joined Pizza Hut for more than 17 years and helped them transform a company-owned brand to franchise. I was the first One System Restaurant Readiness Director who bridged the world of both company and franchise systems for excellence. I helped pioneer the Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe WingStreet brand which has now expanded globally at YUM! Afterwards, I joined Dunkin’ as Brand Operating Officer of Baskin-Robbins which is 100% franchisees. Now, I am CEO of MiniLuxe (both company and franchise).

Little did I know how fortunate it was to work my way up literally from a cook/dishwasher at Shakey’s, not only as the first female ever hired in 1975, but to begin a very rewarding and satisfying career in franchising. Even today, I am typically the only “franchise executive” or one most familiar with franchising whether as a Board member on a publically traded mutual fund company to Harvard Business School’s Global Alumni Board. Helping others achieve the American dream by becoming a franchisee has also been personally and professionally so gratifying and inspirational.

I am a partner at Nixon Peabody LLP (“Nixon Peabody”), a 700-attorney law firm with 16 offices throughout the United States, and a member of its well-respected Franchise Team, which consists of more than twenty-five attorneys. I have also been a driving force behind the efforts of Nixon Peabody to establish the firm as an innovator in the field of diversity. I have also consistently demonstrated passion, commitment and innovation in educating the franchise community in general and minorities in particular concerning the opportunities for minorities in the franchise industry.

Kendal Tyre Nixon Peabody, See my video profile available at: http://www.nixonpeabody.com/firm_diversity LLP In 2004, Nixon Peabody established a Diversity Action Committee (“DAC”) and appointed me as the

national co-chair. DAC is comprised of the Chairman and CEO of the firm and partners from across the

firm. DAC ensures that diversity is realized through the whole range of firm activities and that all partners

and employees (i.e., associates, legal associates, technical specialists and other employees) of Nixon Peabody have equal opportunities in hiring, retention and promotion within the firm and feel supported in their workplace environment. Through my leadership efforts, the firm has given DAC a substantial budget to support its many important activities. Since 2004, we, as a firm, in a relative short period of time have gained much traction. We have double the number of ethnic minority partners and increased our diversity in every category of employee at the firm from associates to staff. The firm was named to FORTUNE® magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” for three consecutive years 2006 - 2008 and the firm’s diversity efforts were cited as one of Nixon Peabody’s strengths by our employees and my partners. We Kendal Tyre Nixon Peabody, have also won a number of regional and national awards for our diversity efforts. (cont.) LLP

Questionnaire Response No. 2 Affiliated How have these achievements advanced the principles of franchising as a viable Nominee Company business strategy, and its positive visibility? After 27 years in the tax preparation industry, I applied 4 cornerstone principles to my franchising business strategy, which contributed to the positive visibility and success of ATAX Franchise and becoming a Premier ATAX Franchise, brand in America. Those principles are: 1- Provide great customer services to my clients, 2- Charge a Rafael Alvarez Inc reasonable fees for my services. 3- getting involved in the community. 4- Make significant contributions to my community.

From day one, Rick set out to make his mark in a well established Franchise sales organization. To this day he emphasizes three key principles that he’s been using throughout his career: As an organization, we are measured by the professionals we associates, the companies we affiliate and the transactions we complete. Supporting diversity is integral to each of these principles; diversity in franchise operations and sales, recruitment, buyers and sellers, as well as staff. He staffed his executive team with experts in their respective roles with proven track records in franchising, real estate, operations and marketing. Domestically, he spearheaded the CENTURY 21 System’s “Recruiting America’s Heroes” campaign which offered our nation’s men and women, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our liberty, a more Rick Davidson Century 21 Real cost-effective and learning-based path to becoming real estate agents, and a great opportunity for our Estate veterans who are also self-made entrepreneurs in their own right.

The company has also earned numerous marketing and consumer awareness awards, such as the 2013 AVA Digital Platinum Global Award for the company’s SimCity Social Facebook campaign. The company also received the won a Platinum Award from the Hermes Creative Award competition and the 2013 Bronze Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America. These awards helped franchisees reach a much sought after market, especially in real estate: the Millennials or the younger, ‘gamer’ audience, and provide a positive awareness and credibility with the Digital consumer. Business success largely depends on identifying a viable opportunity, creating a profitable business model, and consistently mastering operational systems and processes. The Franchising model provides this opportunity for new comers to entrepreneurship or seasoned business operators.

Golden Krust entered franchising when only few Caribbean immigrants were venturing into business; Golden Krust because of the complexities involved with starting a new business. It’s rapid growth and success led Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean the company into becoming the first successful Caribbean food franchisor. As a result of this Bakery and Grill success I have had the opportunity to lead many enterprising African Americans into embracing

franchising as a viable option.

Leveraging this opportunity, Golden Krust has been repeatedly engaged in networking initiatives at expos, seminars, trade shows, and restaurant shows to reach minorities and to encourage and teach budding entrepreneurs how to fuel their entrepreneurial spirits and to try franchising as a preferred business model.

The company’s positioning has also enabled it to work along side various organizations such as The Small Business Association, Caribbean American Chamber Of Commerce and Industry, Inc. and others, to provide access to information on new business development and to showcase and recognize Golden Krust successful small owners. Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean

(cont.) Bakery and Grill Golden Krust has signed more than eighty franchisees of ethnic minority descent. Cont.

Franchising provided the economic opportunity and empowerment for my family and the families of our franchisees and those who have established their own businesses as a result of the information shared. In addition, to the individual empowerment it brought us, its success has also contributed to the empowerment for the whole franchise industry. We have always had a strong legacy at Mason-McDuffie that dates back more than 120 years, with an unmatched reputation for quality and service in our market. We are proud of our legacy, which has been Better Homes enhanced through our affiliation with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate. We chose Better Homes and

and Gardens Gardens Real Estate as a national umbrella partner for its fresh approach and inventive mindset. The brand Ed Krafchow Real Estate provides us with the tools and resources needed to maximize our efforts and thrive in this lifestyle market. Mason McDuffie Together, we acquire the right mix of marketing, technology and business model to take Better Homes and Real Estate Gardens Real Estate Mason-McDuffie to the next level. As I mentioned above, real estate companies in NYC traditionally avoid franchising, preferring to open corporate branches and install top salespeople as branch managers. I’ll admit that I originally intended to follow that model myself. I even trained several of my best agents to be our first wave of managers. But just before construction on our first new branch was supposed to begin, all those managers I had trained quit to go form their own competing firms!

That was when I decided to start delving into franchising. I quickly realized that franchising was actually a beautiful solution to an industry-wide problem. I was far from the first real estate broker to lose my best Rapid Realty agents because they wanted their own companies. But by franchising, I could offer my best people the Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC chance to own their own business (or even businesses) while keeping them in the Rapid Realty family. There’s no doubt in my mind that the decision to franchise is responsible for the success that Rapid Realty enjoys today.

Today, I’m a walking ambassador for the franchising industry. I share that story everywhere I go, and constantly tell people how franchising was the smartest choice I ever made. I’ve told that story in countless interviews in newspapers and magazines, as well as on the radio and TV. For most of Rapid Realty’s current franchisees (including multi-unit owners and area developers), this is their first experience with franchising. And now they all believe in it just as much as I do. Franchising is an essential component to job creation and I am fortunate to have worked for large (Pepsico/Tricon/YUM! and Dunkin’ Brands) as well as smaller brands (especially my current role as CEO of MiniLuxe). My greatest achievement to date is WingStreet (created as a true boot strap concept with very limited resources although the concept was executed at Pizza Hut). We perfected the concept and all elements to become the world’s largest (chicken) wing delivery company in nine months and the largest wing company within 18 months. It’s already in 3600 locations and still growing.

Truthfully in retrospect, I trained my whole life to advance the principles of franchising as a viable and differentiated business strategy as well as to create the foundation and unit economics necessary to expand both here in the US as well as the rest of the world. Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe

My career in franchising has been extremely positive and vibrant as I strengthen business brands and concepts to expand points of distributions/locations as well as impact. In my lifetime, I have personally and professionally watched franchising grow dramatically. Thankfully, the US still has an enormous competitive advantage in this arena (and the essence of true entrepreneurial and innovation which is essential when developing a brand to franchise is alive and well).

Intellectually and personally, I have been atypical in following my heart with a career in franchising. I love helping others and allowing them to live the “American dream”. I am proud to be a specialist in franchising. Nixon’s support of diversity and inclusion has included providing me with the financial support to fly around the country and speak about franchising and diversity to a wide range of diverse groups, such as the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation; the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives; the Minority Franchise Buyers Conference; the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators and Developers; and the National Bar Association, the oldest and largest association of African-American judges, lawyers and legal scholars.

Since, 2004, again with the firm’s generous financial support, I have also been a regular speaker at the IFA’s Nixon Peabody, own diversity programming. Specifically, I have spoken as a panelist at the IFA MinorityFran Seminar Series Kendal Tyre LLP entitled “Franchise Opportunities for Woman and Minorities in Franchising” and, at my own expense, have participated in nearly a dozen seminars, including those held in Detroit, Michigan; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Buffalo, New York; Los Angeles, California; Prince George’s County, Maryland as well as those held at the International Franchise Expos in Washington, DC and the West Coast Franchise Expos in Los Angeles, California.

I have even raised the profile of franchising by writing for a number of publications, including the IFA’s own publication, Franchising World. See "Who is Making an Impact on Diversifying Their Brands," by Kendal Tyre and Phil Wilkins, Franchising World (June 2008).

Questionnaire Response No. 2a Affiliated How have your achievements helped to promote diversity within your organization and/or Nominee Company the franchise industry? I am a product of diversity. I was born in The Dominican Republic and raced in Washington Heights in Northern Manhattan a neighborhood with 98% minority residents. I opened my first office in this Washington Heights in 1986, since then I have been promoting diversity by hiring employees from the ATAX Franchise, Rafael Alvarez neighborhood. Recently, ATAX Franchise was selected 3rd of the Top 50 Minority Franchisor in 2012. Our Inc Franchisees come from different ethnic background with about 94% Latinos from (Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Dominican Rep., Venezuela, etc.), 4% Afro-American and 3% White.

As mentioned, Rick fosters an inclusive environment while recognizing, appreciating and utilizing the talents and contributions of his most valued assets, his employees, affiliates and organizations that promote diversity and inclusion. Under Rick’s leadership, the CENTURY 21 System has strong associations and relationships with organizations like the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals and the Asia Real Estate Association of America. The success is evident in the number of CENTURY 21 agents and brokers who are members and currently serve as directors of both organizations. In fact, this year Rick

served as a closing speak at the AREAA Global Summit in Honolulu, and, as a proud sponsor of the NAHREP

Platinum Mixer and the Gala Installation, helped to install Juan Martinez, Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21 Rick Davidson Century 21 Real Martinez and Associates as President of NAHREP. Rick is also committed to community outreach. Just Estate recently, he contributed to Public Service Announcements for iHeartRadio’s Show Your Stripes campaign, because, as he put it, “iHeartRadio’s Show Your Stripes campaign” is uniquely American. It is a simple, yet

powerful way to recognize, honor and repay a portion of the tremendous debt we owe each and every service man and service woman. For many, they have never held a civilian position before. This series will hopefully help ease that transition. Hiring veteran workers is not charitable, it is good business. The CENTURY 21 franchise system believes veterans are highly-skilled individuals with drive and determination – qualities that any employer can directly benefit from.”

The Company has taken the following steps to promote diversity in the organization and by extension the franchise industry .

Hiring Policy: We have incorporated diversity into our hiring policy and have always operated as an equal Lowell Hawthorne Golden Krust opportunity employer. Our staff complement comprises persons from various ethnic and cultural Caribbean backgrounds. Our policies and procedures are documented in two languages and are explained through Bakery and Grill detailed orientation process.

Franchise recruitment: Golden Krust fosters diversity by promoting its products and franchising

opportunity to all ethnic groups. As a result, the company has evolved into a multi cultural and ethnically mixed group. Our franchising community is made up of several cultures. Product Development : Golden Krust has also diversified its product offering by adding Microwaveable , Halal Patties and ‘School’ Patties, exotic seasoning and sauces which are marketed globally. Hours of operations The nature of our manufacturing and franchising operations require us to provide flexible working hours, This is a more attractive working environment for persons who work and study. The company also sensitive to cultural differences. Lowell Hawthorne Golden Krust

(cont.) Caribbean Community outreach: Golden Krust is proud to be a part of the communities it serves. The company’s Bakery and Grill involvement in local charities and events, education, seminars and conventions has set it apart. I have also had the opportunity to speak at several schools and colleges, on business development or growing a small business and have been the keynote speaker for several business ceremonies. Giving back is an essential part our of day to day operations.

Festivities : Golden Krust’s savory food items are sought after for cultural events, festivities, food fairs. We have also participated in several “Taste of franchising” events.

I have always been committed to positioning Better Homes and Gardens Mason-McDuffie Real Estate as a local leader of diversity. We embrace the different customs and values in our communities. As a Bay Area based company, I made it a priority to adjust our business model so that we continue to build cultural and business bridges that resonate with our consumers here and abroad.

Better Homes and Gardens Mason-McDuffie Real Estate is one of the only real estate companies in our market with an established diversity initiative, which includes training agents to work with Asian investors. We have a diverse set of background and business experience reflecting the wonderful crossroads of cultures of the city we live in and serve. The diverse group of consumers in our market requires that our

agents to be equipped with specialized knowledge of all groups. There is a sizeable Chinese population in Better Homes our market, so we have agents who not only speak the language but to understand the needs of foreign and Gardens Ed Krafchow Real Estate nationals as well as potential foreign clients. Currently, in our company of more than 1200 agents and 20 Mason McDuffie offices, we speak more than 40 languages, including sign language. Real Estate In 2012, to strengthen our dedicated stance towards diversity, I named Ellen Osmundson as our first ever Directory of Diversity. Ellen’s role is to enhance and bring a unique set of talent to our company that builds our collective work with foreign buyers. Since starting, Ellen has truly managed to take our initiatives to the next level.

Our parent company Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate awarded us winner of the national Diversity award in 2012. Our affiliation and unique partnership with them provides us with the encouragement and support to embrace and build our business model around our diverse communities.

When I was a young real estate agent, I wanted to work in the tony neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights. Even though I had been quite successful elsewhere in Brooklyn, I was turned down for a job by just about every brokerage in Brooklyn Heights. They told me I didn’t look or sound like what people in that neighborhood expected from a real estate agent.

When I started my own company, I wanted it to be a place of inclusion and opportunity for all, regardless of how they looked or talked when they first walked through our doors. As a direct result, each Rapid Realty franchise location is wonderfully representative of its surrounding community, creating an incredibly diverse company culture. Rapid Realty Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC Franchising has allowed me to empower a new generation of minority and women business owners in the highly competitive—and all too often homogenous—world of New York City real estate. Well over 80% of our franchise owners are women and minorities, and the same is true for our agents. Many of our most successful agents and franchisees didn’t own a suit when they first came to us, or didn’t speak much English, or didn’t look like the stereotypical picture of a real estate professional. But we gave them a chance, and the results have been nothing short of phenomenal.

Rapid Realty received the 2013 Special Achievement Award from the National Minority Business Council and was named one of the 2014 Champions of Diversity by the New York Urban League.

Great question especially since I am currently transforming the manicure, pedicure, waxing and eyebrow business into a strong wellness brand that provides an ultra-hygienic, high quality and affordable alternative to neighborhood nail salons as well as high end day spas. While today the vast majority of our team and clients are females, we have achieved so much and we are already helping advance women professionally as well as providing a strong brand that will attract savvy women and men to become franchisees.

Being a women pioneer in numerous roles has allegedly been inspirational to many women throughout my career as I specialized in operation (which was typically very male dominant as I moved up in increasingly Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe larger roles). Whether as one of the only female Director of Operations at Pizza Hut, a female President/COO of Baskin-Robbins (their title is Brand Operating Officer) or now as CEO/President of MiniLuxe, I am embarking in many new frontiers to help open opportunities for all talented people but especially women. As someone who came from 62 years of women in my family, I was heavily influenced by a very strong female world growing up. Since in kindergarten, I have always loved giving back to my school and community. With a lifelong record of mentorship, I would openly encourage you speak to anyone (with over 2000 LinkedIn connections, it may help identifying those you would like to verify my character, integrity and passion for mentoring talented people, especially women).

Please see responses to other questions. Nixon Peabody, Kendal Tyre LLP

Affiliated Questionnaire Response No. 3 Nominee Company List the leadership and/or committee/task force positions you have held in IFA. None ATAX Franchise, Rafael Alvarez Inc

None

Century 21 Real Rick Davidson Estate

I have not had the privilege yet of serving on any committee in the IFA. However I would gladly welcome

the opportunity to do so, especially as it relates to championing the cause of minority-owned franchises. Golden Krust Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean

Bakery and Grill

None Better Homes and Gardens Ed Krafchow Real Estate Mason McDuffie Real Estate Rapid Realty None as of yet. Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC None yet but I am very excited to serve in the future Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe

To date, I have yet to serve in a leadership position in the IFA. I have, however, served as a panelist in a Nixon Peabody, Kendal Tyre number of programs at the annual convention as well as at the IFA Legal Symposium. LLP

Affiliated Questionnaire Response No. 4 Nominee Company List other awards and honors bestowed upon you by the franchising community. -Grant Marshal of the National Dominican Parade in NYC, 2007. -Business Man of the Year, by the SBDC in the Bronx, NY in 2008. -Top 50 Minority Franchisor in 2012 and 2013, October issue of USA Today. -Ël”Award by El Diario La Prensa in 2013 as one of the most successful Latino in NYC. ATAX Franchise, -Top 50 “Low Cost Franchises” in 2014, Spring Issue 2014 of Franchise Business Review. Rafael Alvarez Inc -Recognized as prominent and successful Business owner by many publications and Elected Officials in the Latino community such as (Congressman Charles Rangel, State Senator Adriano Espaillat, NYS assemblyman Guillermo Linares, NYC Councilman Miguel Martinez, Newspapers NY Daily News, Manhattan Times, El Taxista, Transformations, News, Santo Domingo News, QueensLatino, El Especialito, etc)

None

Century 21 Real Rick Davidson Estate

• 2013 Ronald E. Harrison Diversity Award, International Franchise Association 2014 • Who's Who Network of Executives and Professionals Publications 2014 • Who's Who of Executive, Professional & Entrepreneurs, Cambridge Publications 2010 • Who's Who in Leadership, Strathmore's Publications 2009 • You Are The Standard of Excellent Award V&J Holding Companies, Inc. 2007 • You Are The Standard of Excellent Award, V&J Holding Companies, Inc. 2006 • You Are The Standard of Excellent Award, V&J Holding Companies, Inc. 2005

• Playmaker Clipboard Award #48, Mike Miles, CEO 2001 V&J Holding John JD Draper • You Are The Standard of Excellent Award V&J Holding Companies, Inc. 2001 Companies • Who's Who of International Professionals, International Publications 2000 • You Are The Standard of Excellent Award, V&J Holding Companies, Inc. 1999 • Cheese Head Award #210, Mike Rawlings, CEO 1998 • Who's Who Among American Executives, Publications 1989 • Who's Who in Midwest America, Marquis Registry 1988 • Honorable Discharge, United States Army November 1978 • Best Boss Award, Keys Group Company Managers 1978

I have not had the privilege yet of serving on any committee in the IFA. However I would gladly welcome

Golden Krust Lowell Hawthorne the opportunity to do so, especially as it relates to championing the cause of minority-owned franchises. Caribbean

Bakery and Grill

Better Homes None and Gardens

Real Estate Ed Krafchow Mason McDuffie Real Estate The Franchise Business Review gave Rapid Realty the Franchisee Satisfaction Award in 2013 and 2014 and Rapid Realty named Rapid Realty one of the top 50 companies for franchisee satisfaction among companies with 99 or Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC fewer units.

None yet but I am very excited to serve in the future Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe

Affiliated Questionnaire Response No. 5 Nominee Company Detail your history of community involvement. Since I arrived to this Country I have been involved in many different organizations in my community. -President of the Day Student Government at City College of NY, 1989. -Member of Community Board #7 in Manhattan, NYC 1990. -Organized Blood Donation Campaign in Harlem with North General Hospital. 1990-1996 -President of the Northern Manhattan Democratic Club. 1996 ATAX Franchise, -Ran many political campaigns for candidates running for NYS Assembly, Senate and NYC Council. Rafael Alvarez Inc -Organized a Children Health festival in Washington Heights with over 350,000 participants. 2000 – 2005. -Helped Organized the National Dominican parade in NYC, 2007. -Board Member of the Ethics Committee at the NY Presbyterian Hospital. 2008 -Board Member of the Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance. 2013 -Board Member and Treasurer of the Guardian Angels. 2014

Davidson currently serves on the international board of directors for Easter Seals as its first vice chairman. In 2012, the CENTURY 21® franchise system surpassed $106 million in lifetime contributions for Easter Seals, its sole philanthropic partner since 1979, exceeding the prior year’s totals by 11%.Contributing to the 2012 totals, Rick’s “Climb for Kids” raised more than $57,000 for the Easter Seals “Make the First Five Count” initiative. To raise these funds, Davidson led a seven-member team in November to the summit of Rick Davidson Century 21 Real two Mexican volcanoes, ascending more than 35,000 feet of elevation. Estate Rick is also active in Big Brothers/Big Sisters. His “little” Robby is doing better in school and building relationships with his fellow students by joining a variety of clubs and organizations. He is also active on a number of other local and national charities, including the Boy Scouts of America.

The Golden Krust’s name is synonymous with community involvement.

Education: The company established the Mavis & Ephraim Hawthorne Golden Krust Foundation in honor of my late parents. The Foundation awards scholarships to needy college bound students annually. I have also established endowment funds with the Bronx Community College and the Golden Krust American Foundation of the University of the West Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean Indies to cover the cost of tuition for twenty eight student. So far over one hundred and fifty Bakery and Grill scholarships have been awarded.

Internships: The company provides internship to college students annually, allowing them to gain experience in marketing , business and office procedures.

Health: Golden Krust and its franchisees have also participated in several community initiatives geared at raising awareness about health related issues such as prostate and breast cancer awareness. The company partners with the American Cancer Society to bring awareness and raise funds through a month of promotional activities each year.

Non-Profit organizational support: Our franchise has also developed an enviable reputation within the community for its generosity towards non-profit and faith-based organizations with donations of food Lowell Hawthorne Golden Krust and monetary contributions to projects that raise the overall well-being of our neighbors surrounding all (cont.) Caribbean of our franchised locations. Bakery and Grill

Back to School, Thanksgiving and Christmas Treats: These are special times for Golden Krust. Each

year our corporate and franchising community pool our efforts to provide meals and packages for underprivileged community groups including the homeless, senior citizens and displaced children.

Welfare to workforce : We have also actively participated in NYC welfare to workfare programs to provide employment opportunities for local residents in the Bronx New York the home of our corporate office and state of the art USDA manufacturing facility.

Our offices and agents continue to be fully committed to giving back to our surrounding communities. Recently, we partnered with the World Transformation center and together, hosted a Charity Poker Tournament that raised over $27,000 for The Children’s Village of Sonoma County.

In 1991, I created the Mason-McDuffie Education Foundation. I was a teacher prior to joining Mason- McDuffie, so I value the work that goes into the profession. The Foundation’s mission is to honor outstanding teachers in the public schools for their priceless contribution to the lives of our children and American’s future. Each winter, we encourage students, parents, peers, administrators and others to Better Homes nominate exceptional public school teachers for an award and grant consideration. To date, our and Gardens Ed Krafchow Foundation has awarded $818,000 to 1,365 special public school teachers throughout Northern California. Real Estate Mason McDuffie Check back in January to nominate a teacher for our 2014 grants. This year we honored 15 outstanding Real Estate teachers from the San Francisco communities served by its offices.

In 2011, I wanted to take our community initiatives even further by dedicating one day to give back to our surrounding communities. The company’s “Giving Day” is one day out of the year where our thirty-five offices, including our joint ventures, donate time and resources to complete designated projects for some 25 charities in our local communities.

Since the day I founded Rapid Realty, I have always looked for ways to get involved with giving back to the Rapid Realty community. When we were just starting out, with a small handful of agents, we’d all climb into a van and Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC I’d take them to volunteer at a homeless shelter or a coat drive. When we got a little larger, we organized more elaborate activities, such as splitting up into groups and going out to low-income areas to hand out turkeys with all the trimmings on the night before Thanksgiving. Since becoming a franchisor, I have continued to find ways to get involved that suit the growing capabilities, manpower, and resources of the company at any given moment. For instance, in 2011, we organized a stand-up comedy benefit to raise money for the Red Cross, something we never could have done when we were still small.

Anthony Lolli Rapid Realty Since then, I have personally taken part in numerous charity fundraisers, particularly for organizations (cont.) Franchise, LLC aimed at combating childhood illnesses, reducing inner city gun violence, and promoting equal educational and professional opportunities for minorities.

I have also constantly encouraged every franchisee I mentor to get their own offices involved in charity, as well. I introduced a way for Rapid Realty agents to boost their commission split by participating in charity, and have since seen offices hold food, clothing, and toy drives, work on Habitat for Humanity builds, and much more.

Find more information about Rapid Realty’s community involvement at http://www.rapidnyc.com/about/givingback

Since a child, I have had a long history of volunteer roles in both community and schools. I believe that as a corporate citizen it is my responsibility to involve my company in the community and the people it serves. MiniLuxe, for example, has worked on behalf of Dress for Success, Friends of Mel Breast Cancer organization and the Boston OneFund, formed following the Boston Marathon tragedy.

I have been a very active volunteer, especially with Harvard Business School. I served for many years as a club officer and then five years on the global Alumni Board. I am currently helping plan my 25th reunion.

Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe I have also served on many Boards including Winners on Wheels (helping children that use wheelchairs for mobility) and Guerite Mutual Fund (publicly traded).

I guest lecture at Boston University.

I share what I know about franchising to help franchise candidates and franchisors to become stronger and better.

I have had long history of involvement within diverse and historically disadvantaged communities. Through the years, I have had a number of mentors who have opened doors for me professionally, and I Kendal Tyre Nixon Peabody, feel a special obligation to give back to these communities. LLP As a young Nixon associate in 1994, I co-founded the Rochester Black Bar Association (“RBBA”), an affiliate of the National Bar Association. I was honored at its tenth anniversary banquet held in 2004 and the organization continues to thrive and represent the interests of African-American legal practitioners in the Rochester, New York region.

My involvement in the creation of the RBBA inspired me to focus my attention globally to advance the interests of black lawyers across the globe. In 2000, I established LexNoir (www.lexnoir.org), an international network of lawyers connecting the African diaspora. I currently serve as the organization’s executive director.

We provide news and information on legal issues confronting black communities across the globe. We also

sponsor legal programs that enhance the professional development of our members. Currently, we have National Representatives in the United States; the United Kingdom; South Africa; Nigeria; Ghana; Japan; Kendal Tyre Nixon Peabody, Botswana; Ethiopia, Canada, Tunisia, Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde who work to expand the (cont.) LLP network within their own particular country and facilitate business referrals throughout the LexNoir community.

LexNoir has a presence off-line and on-line and has launched a variety of forums based on the interests of its membership. For example, in 2006, LexNoir created the Corporate Counsel Forum. This group was formed to support the needs and professional development of in-house counsel and has sponsored seminars and receptions in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Cape Town and Johannesburg. In 2009, LexNoir formed its Environmental Forum, which is sponsored by the law firm of Beveridge & Diamond. The Franchise Forum, sponsored by Nixon Peabody, was formed in 2010. Other forums will be launched in the future that focus on substantive areas of law or groups of individual members.

Apart from our Forums, we maintain a connection with our membership through our Email Updates that provide news and information for over 3,000 attorneys in more than 30 countries. We also have a presence in other social networking sites such as FaceBook and Linkedin.

Questionnaire Response No. 6 Affiliated Demonstrate how this has transcended commercial benefit and heightened the Nominee Company positive awareness of franchising. My community involvement made me realized that I have a tremendous responsibility in the Hispanic or Latino community to promote the importance of franchising. The record shows that about 4% of Latinos are involved in the franchise business. That is nothing for the big number of Latinos that lives in the USA. I ATAX Franchise, Rafael Alvarez am ever surprise to see that in the Tax Preparation Industry I became the first Latino that owns a Franchise Inc Company in the Nation. I can see that I have a lot of work ahead of me by promoting and educating Latinos of How Importance is to be part of a franchise company.

As the world’s largest residential real estate sales organization of approximately 7,100 independently owned and operated franchised broker offices in 74 countries and territories worldwide with more than 100,000 sales professionals, our Easter Seal’s campaign positively impacts the lives of children and their families in the U.S. and Canada. Our volunteerism is greatly appreciated by the consumers it touches, and Rick Davidson Century 21 Real those that hear of our efforts through events, social media and word-of-mouth. CENTURY 21 Agents and Estate Brokers know that families have a choice when seeking real estate professionals and our support of Easter Seals is one way of saying, "Thanks" to our clients and their neighbors and friends.

Not only has Golden Krust gained the respect of the communities it serves but has created a loyal following of customers which has contributed to our growth. The recognition received by our franchising community is also inspirational to others we hope will embrace franchising as a business Golden Krust option. Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean Bakery and Grill

 Received Diversity Award in 2012 from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate  Named one of the real estate industry’s Most Influential People by Inman News Better Homes  Awarded the RISMedia Real Estate Leadership Award in 2012

and Gardens  Ed Krafchow Frequent national speaker on several industry related topics Real Estate  Identified by the California Association of Realtors as one of California’s top brokers Mason McDuffie  Recognized as a technological leader by the Employee Relocation Council Real Estate Some companies are content to write a check and call that their charitable contribution for the year. There’s nothing wrong with that, of course, but I’ve always tried to get more involved than just being a Anthony Lolli Rapid Realty signature and a bank account. I give my time and my voice to the organizations I support, and I encourage Franchise, LLC all of Rapid Realty’s franchisees and agents to do the same. And whether it’s an agent spending a couple hours helping out their favorite local organization before coming into work in the morning or the whole company coming together to support a single cause, I’ve always made it clear that whatever we do is only possible because of franchising.

E.g.: In 2009, when Rapid Realty was just about to launch its franchising operations, I decided to start providing free real estate school tuition to anyone in need. The job market was abysmal at the time, and Anthony Lolli Rapid Realty there were many people who wanted to get into real estate, but couldn’t afford the mandatory classes to (cont.) Franchise, LLC get licensed. I paid for hundreds of people to attend classes that would normally cost upwards of $300. Many of those people became Rapid Realty agents, working out of our growing network of franchises. If we weren’t growing as fast as we were (thanks to franchising), I wouldn’t have been able to make that offer. But because of franchising, hundreds of people attended school, had jobs waiting for them, and some of those people even became Rapid Realty franchisees themselves.

We don’t forge these relationships to increase our bottom-line, we do it to raise money for worthy charities. It is simply the right thing to do. Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe Additionally, I believe it is essential to give back in various ways.

The LexNoir Franchise Forum, sponsored by Nixon Peabody, focuses on the study and discussion of franchising developments around the globe. Its work is highlighted through publications and webinars designed to showcase the expertise of those in the African Diaspora and others who are diverse franchise professionals. It is a resource for networking and problem solving and is unique in that it focuses on issues and concerns specific to historically disadvantaged communities in franchising. Nixon Peabody, Kendal Tyre LLP In July 2012, LexNoir’s Franchise Forum, working with attorneys in over 15 countries in Africa published a 300 book entitled “Franchising in Africa: Legal and Business Considerations.” It provides an overview for legal practitioners, business people and academics on the essential issues in franchising in the countries profiled. I served as the editor of the work and believe that it is the first of its kind in the marketplace.

See video of book trailer available at www.lexnoir.org/publications.

Questionnaire Response No. 7 Affiliated Provide details on any pertinent legal actions that concern franchise systems with Nominee Company which you have been affiliated. When I launched the ATAX Franchise, I gave the opportunity to a former CFO Mr. David Sang to become a franchisee by opening one ATAX location. Later we learned that Mr. Sang was having secret meeting with ATAX Franchise, other franchisees to convince them to leave or not to follow our franchise system. Later my executive Rafael Alvarez Inc team terminated Mr. Sang franchise agreement for violating and not following the franchise system. We end-up in court and later we settled the case.

None Century 21 Real Rick Davidson Estate

Not applicable Golden Krust Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean

Bakery and Grill None Better Homes and Gardens Ed Krafchow Real Estate Mason McDuffie Real Estate

Rapid Realty None. Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC None Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe

Nixon Peabody, I have not been involved in any legal actions that concern franchise systems. Kendal Tyre LLP

Questionnaire Response No. 8 Affiliated Include any other information that you believe may be helpful to IFA in its Nominee Company consideration of you as an honoree. I am very proud to say that I am the first Latino that owns a franchise company in the tax preparation ATAX Franchise, industry. I believe that the IFA will play a great role in the development and growth of our brand and my Rafael Alvarez Inc growth in franchising by taking the CFE course and supporting the FranPac.

N/A Century 21 Real Rick Davidson Estate

In addition to the answers provided above I have also included a copy of our company history, community Golden Krust Lowell Hawthorne initiatives and our most current Franchise Disclosure Document for your review. Caribbean

Bakery and Grill

N/A Better Homes and Gardens Ed Krafchow Real Estate Mason McDuffie Real Estate

I’m a guy who came from nothing. My father was a first generation Italian-American WWII veteran-turned- schoolteacher. My mother immigrated to the US from Ecuador with $40 to her name. My parents and I shared a tiny one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn throughout my entire childhood. I got my real estate license at 19 to try to provide for my parents, and when I started my own firm at 21, it was an extension of that same goal. I built my company from the ground up (literally—I couldn’t afford a proper construction crew, so I hired day laborers and worked alongside them to build out the space).

I tell you this so that when I say it was hard for me to make the decision to franchise, you’ll understand Rapid Realty Anthony Lolli why. It took every penny I had to start my own company, and giving up control over the brand like that— Franchise, LLC having to put my trust into other people to run their own offices with the love and care I had put into the company for more than a decade—was the most difficult thing I’d ever done. But it also turned out to be the best.

Today, I can’t believe I ever thought about growing my company in any other way. I’m a vocal advocate for franchising everywhere I go. I’ve written articles on the subject for numerous publications, including the Huffington Post. Franchising has become part of my DNA, as much as it’s a part of my company’s.

My leadership style is focused on helping others to succeed. Franchising has taught all of us to gain success through influencing others versus a corporate set-up where making and implementing decisions is easier. As a franchise executive, one must never fail to provide an environment of constant learning and self-improvement.

Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe For those who know me, I have an incredible love for others and our team. I lean towards people-centric decisions (including the ability for our workforce to take good care of themselves and their families) while making profit goals set by the Board. This balance and constant challenge has improved me as a human being, person and executive of a growing franchise system.

Last year, I created an innovative diversity program at Nixon Peabody that we believe is the first of its kind in the nation. In July of 2010, we launched the “Diversity Challenge” program. Each attorney at Nixon Peabody is asked or “challenged” to devote 40 hours annually to diversity initiatives, activities or events to enhance the recruitment, development and retention of diverse attorneys and staff. To date, a majority of the firm’s attorneys have participated in program. These attorneys have over 3,000 hours logged on recruiting, retention, business development and administrative activities related to the Diversity Challenge.

Nixon Peabody, In commenting on the Diversity Challenge, the February 25, 2011 issue of Canada’s Lawyers Weekly noted: Kendal Tyre LLP “The genius of Nixon Peabody’s diversity program lies in its familiarity (lawyers understand hourly measures and they respond to targeted commitments) and universality (diversity is effectively communicated to be every lawyer’s responsibility). But best of all, it’s an approach that any law firm of any size can adopt.”

We are confident that the Diversity Challenge is an example of thought leadership in the field of diversity and that this program will have a positive impact in a variety of sectors. The National Law Journal is in the process of doing a feature on the program.

Questionnaire Response No. 9 Are there legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of Affiliated an IFA award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention Nominee Company for the association and/or the franchising industry? Please describe. ATAX Franchise, No Rafael Alvarez Inc

Century 21 Real None Rick Davidson Estate Currently enrolled in Certified Franchise Executive program V&J Holding John JD Draper Companies No Golden Krust Lowell Hawthorne Caribbean Bakery and Grill No Better Homes and Gardens Ed Krafchow Real Estate Mason McDuffie Real Estate

None Rapid Realty Anthony Lolli Franchise, LLC None Sue Thirlwall MiniLuxe

There are no legal, financial or other issues or situations that your selection as the recipient of an IFA Nixon Peabody, Kendal Tyre award might raise which have the potential to attract negative publicity or attention for the association LLP and/or the franchising industry.