The resolution read:
entrepreneur; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker was a self-made success story, opening various soul food eateries, particularly the famed Ms. Tootsie s, and Keven Parker s Soul Food Cafe. His success expanded to oversee six distinct entities, corporate offices of The KeVen Parker Company, and even his own lifestyle brand, KPD Lifestyle; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker s own achievements paved the way for future Black restaurateurs and entrepreneurs, and he continued to pay it forward by counseling, mentoring and helping others pursue their own success; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker made award-winning dishes that have been sampled by Patti LaBelle, Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Mo Nique, and former President Bill Clinton. His famous Ms. Tootsie s was named the best Southern-style restaurant for three years running in Black Enterprise magazine and appeared frequently on televised food shows. The Food Network s Robert Irvine raved about his fried chicken on The Best Thing I Ever