This year is the most important from a leadership standpoint. I have to focus on that and be there for the rest of the guys.

Seize the opportunity, enjoy it and make the most of it.

It has an emotional effect. The team stepped up and did more than expected. It's still hard to deal with him not being there, but we have to stay with it and be there for each other.

This award demonstrates MCI's continued leadership and commitment in delivering innovative services. Our focus is to ensure that we meet all our customers' requirements, from conferencing solutions to end-to-end connectivity to total management of their network. MCI's portfolio of services enables enterprise customers to conduct business more effectively and efficiently.

By partnering with EDS, Sprint Nextel can focus on leadership in mobility and provide increased value to its customer base. EDS's commitment to operational excellence and collaboration were key contributing factors in our decision to extend our relationship.

Jeff's leadership created a focus and energy on aligning Sunkist growers and packers with the changing demands of the marketplace -- from the end consumer to key retail and foodservice customers. He also was instrumental in the development of the California Citrus Growers Association to align the citrus industry in the west to grow the category. Jeff built a great management team and is leaving Sunkist in good hands.