Phil Romano makes no bones about it. He doesn’t listen to others. While he claimed that made him an ideal entrepreneur, he also was a memory-maker at Wednesday’s “Expanding Worlds” luncheon at the Hilton Anatole benefiting LaunchAbility.
Co-chaired by Jay Hull and Maggie Cooke Kipp, this year’s on-stage chat trio included Phil and fellow entrepreneurs Dee Lincoln and Scott Ginsburg with emcee Scott Murray. And that maverick spirit was the common thread of the three, as was their all having been in the restaurant business and in customer service.
But on this occasion there was no doubt that Phil was the godfather of entrepreneurship and he was not going to be corralled by time restraints.
A perfect example was when emcee Scott was winding things down and announced they were going to have a lightning round of questions requiring “only a one- or two-word answer.”
First question: “As a kid growing up, everybody wanted to be fireman or a policeman or a cheerleader, whatever it was; what did you want to be?”
Dee: “Airline stewardess.”
Phil: A two-minute monologue about how from childhood he had wanted to be an entrepreneur.
As emcee Scott tried to lasso Phil to conclusion, Dee asked, “Did you say two minutes?” and Scott G interjected, “This is starting to feel like a presidential debate.” [Laughter]
Phil continued. Long story made short, he wanted to survive and be the best at whatever he did. He feared failure.
Another question raised, brought another Phil-ism. He recalled that after working for a while with the late legendary restaurateur Norman Brinker, Phil was advised to cut his ponytail. On this suggestion, Phil must have listened to his inner man and realized Norman’s wisdom. The ponytail vanished.
Once again LaunchAbility brought together three totally different Dallas personalities to fascinate hundreds for the good of “children and adults with developmental disabilities in achieving their maximum potential and leading fulfilling lives.”
Can’t wait to see which three Dallasites will be talking next year!
yvonne says
very interesting to have 3 different personalities.. telling how they got to the top – their way…. lots of fun and laughs.. what a great cause – LaunchAbility…
Maggie Kipp says
Thank you, Jeanne – definitely an entertaining luncheon – such a joy to hear Phil, Scott and Dee’s insights! Loved Ebby Halliday, Expanding Worlds Luncheon Honoarry Chair Emeritus, quote when asked what’s the best thing about being almost 102? – her response, no peer pressure. Their hard work and generosity is so appreciated by Launchability’s clients.
Deborah Montonen, CFRE says
Thanks SO much, Jeanne! So glad you could join us on our big day. LaunchAbility truly appreciates you!!!!!
Jan strimple says
Maggie is the Energizer Bunny of Dallas! And she does it all with a smile and a caring heart. A tip of my chapeau to her for her nonstop contributions to this delightful city we all call home!