Formed initially as Miami Business Leaders and then changed to The Breakfast Club, the name of the Executives’ Association of Greater Miami, Inc. became official in 1939. Miami joined over 50 other Executives’ Associations across the United States and Canada already in existence.

Meetings would be held on Tuesday mornings, a visitation held on Thursday evenings, with an Annual Golf Outing rounding out the Association’s Agenda.

As Miami grew, membership in the organization also increased. Dues were raised from $12.50 to $25.00 per month in 1956, and Miami hosted the 20th International Conference of Coordinators.

Small businesses began joining the Association-businesses that are still members today, and which have grown to be, successful companies.

A period which saw vast improvements in Miami's economic horizons, was once again echoed in the Association’s increase in members. Staying at the forefront of this burgeoning economy, EAGM's membership exceeded 90 companies and dues were now $30.00.

Membership waned, as the Association began to feel the contractions of a national slowdown in business. Total number of firms fell into the low 80's, dues increased from $35.00 in 1970 to $40.00 in 1974; $47.50 in 1976 and finally $54.00 in 1979. Breakfast meetings were still being held at the venerable Columbus Hotel at the bargain price of $3.25.

In 1977 a new record was also set- for the first time in Association history, a Member was re-elected to the office of President for the third time. Congratulations were extended to Pete Newsome, a young executive representing Publix Super Markets.

Membership again increased reaching a cap of 100 Member Firms and a waiting list was established. 66% of the Membership attained 100% attendance at breakfast meetings Breakfast meetings were now held at the Marriot Hotel at a cost of $6.25, with dues increasing to $86.00 monthly.

In May, 1987, the first company owned, operated and represented by a female, was approved for membership in the Association. The honor was bestowed upon Patti Ragan of then Star Temporary Service.

Regional Executives' Association meetings were held across the country and Miami became a part of the Southeastern Region with the 13 cities represented at the meeting held in Orlando, Florida in 1991 and 1992. A closer alliance with our neighbors, the Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach Executives' Associations began in early 1992, just in time for Association members to reach out for help after Hurricane Andrew hit Miami on August 24, 1992, devastating the area.

This period saw some landmark changes: The first female member, Patti Ragan was chosen as President; Phil Everingham of Merrill Stevens, was elected President for the third time; and the membership cap was raised to 110 Member Firms (the first time the cap has ever been raised).

Other Interesting Information:

The following listing highlights a number of members who over the years have been represented by earlier generations.

Florida Silica Sand Company
George Pegram served as Director in 1970; succeeded by Brian Pegram, and then Aaron Herwig.

The Keyes Company
Ted Pappas served as Director 4 times from ‘69 -'76 and was then followed by his two sons, Michael Pappas and Tim Pappas.

Raymond W. Butler, Inc.
Raymond Butler, Jr. served as President in 1962-1963 and membership is now held by his son, Raymond W. Butler III.

Harrison Construction Corporation
John C. Harrison, Sr. served as Director in 1978 and John Harrison, Jr. now represents the company.

Flamingo Oil Company
Dale Moseley served as EAGM's second President in 1939 with Dale Moseley and Dale Moseley, Jr. now active in the business and the Association.

The following firms have been members for the longest period:

Charter Members
Pfleger Financial Group
Coopers & Lybrand (now Price Waterhouse Coopers)
The Keyes Company
Skags Office Supply
Rechtien International Trucks

Over 50 Years:
Hill-York
Southern Bell Telephone Co. (now Bell South)
T-Square
Harrison Construction Corp.

Over 30 Years:
Spillis Candela Partners (now Spillis Candela DMJM)
Dr. Bruce Higley
Raymond W. Butler, Inc.
Florida Silicia Sand Company
Carroll’s Jewelers

Two members have represented three different member firms in EAGM throughout their careers:

Joe Young was a representative since 1978, representing Biscayne Chemical, Creative Management and Florida Building Services.

John Holloway was a representative for Graymark Security, Withers-Suddath and Select Engineering over a 15-year period.