HONORING WOMEN

The Develoment and Finishing Institute, a finishing school in Harlem is hosting their first annual luncheon honoring minority-women entrepreneurs. The 12 women being honored own successful business in the tri-state area.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK--In times of turmoil and uncertainty, a celebration of spirit and perseverance is a welcome diversion in our lives. The Development and Finishing Institute (DFI), a finishing school located in upper Manhattan is having their first annual luncheon honoring minority-women entrepreneurs. The theme of the luncheon, Women We Are Watching" reads like a local Whos Who of strength and success. Rose Smith, Founder and Chairperson of the Institute says, these women are an example of excellence and an inspiration to the young women we are working to develop. The honorees were picked by our students; these are our role models."

The Development and Finishing Institute opened its doors in October of 2002. The model of the Institute is to teach every young woman that steps through its doors Vision, Purpose and Destiny. Taking note from educator Charlotte Hawkins Brown, who founded one of the most successful black finishing schools in 1902, DFI is focused on improving the status and image of women. The Institute offers a social etiquette program in collaboration with The Plaza Hotel. They also have a full curriculum in subjects ranging from art appreciation to entrepreneurship. All students, ages 13-18 must maintain a B average while participating in the program.

The luncheon being held at Biancas on the Park, 103 West 110th Street in Manhattan, will take place on Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 11:30am. The women being honored will be presented with their plaques by the students of the school and have an opportunity to share their thoughts.

Among those being honored are: Terrie Williams, Terrie Williams Agency; Barbara Blair, Cyberstaff; Saundra Parks, Daily Blossom; Cynthia Grace, Cynergy Day Spa; Norma Jean Darden, Spoonbread Restaurant; Harriet Cole, Profundities, Inc.; Clara Villarosa, Hue-Man Bookstore; Leah Abraham, Settepani; Jeannie Yuen, Apartnership and Patti Webster, W&W Public Relations. Being presented with the Charlotte Hawkins Brown award for excellence is Mary Vinson, proprietor of The Royal Hut.

For more information about this event or The Development and Finishing Institute, please call 212-996-2581. Ticket prices for this event range from $500 to $1000 per table. All contributions are tax-deductible.

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