In life and in business, when someone impacts the opportunity in a really big way, they’re referred to as a “rainmaker.” I have known Cecil Yates all of my adult life. Cecil is a rainmaker.

I was born and grew up in the ghetto of Dayton, Ohio. I met Cecil in the fall of 1985 at the University of Cincinnati. Although we were from very different backgrounds, we became great friends. To this day, I consider him my best friend.

Everybody’s journey through life has people that have impacted their life. Cecil has greatly impacted mine. His positive energy, high expectations and belief that we all can accomplish anything we set out to do, are beliefs I embrace as well.

Ever since I have known Cecil, he has positively impacted everything he has been involved in. During college, he was president or head of many organizations, all of which flourished under his leadership. Several received national recognition and awards. One simple idea was to have a social function with other organizations, different from his. The event made the national stage for race relations.

Since college, Cecil and I have worked together on projects, done business together and have family functions together. His family refers to me as “Uncle Rodney” and mine refer to him as “Uncle Cecil.” Within my network, I now operate the second largest home health care franchise in the country. I can honestly say Cecil has definitely helped us with our business. We operate in Fountain Hills and all around the East Valley.

As many of you know, Cecil is running for Mayor of Fountain Hills. I obviously endorse his candidacy and encourage you to vote for him. He will work with you, the business community and town staff to make it “rain” in Fountain Hills.