Community, Culture and Charity
was the theme for this sell-out event!
The 7th Annual 2008 Hispanic Women of Distinction luncheon that was held at Signature Grand in Davie, FL on August 15th at was a sell-out of more than 800 guests honoring 12 Latinas from Broward, Dade and Palm Beach County and the 2008 Latina Pioneer of the Year who have paved the way for others to achieve their goals in the American society. The Hispanic Women of Distinction charity luncheon presented by Bank of America and Latina Style Magazine, the nation's leading publication for Hispanic women, continues to grow with co-sponsorships this year from General Motors, Sawgrass Mills, and The Nielsen Company.
Starting with complimentary "mojitos", tapas and a Silent Auction benefiting the March of Dimes, guests entered the elegantly decorated ballroom with a 128 foot runway to enjoy lunch and a unique fashion show presented by The Guayabera Lady, a woman-owned company who expanded the traditional garment into a modern day version of ready-to-wear, evening and bridal attire for the entire family. Elected officials and community leaders modeled the fashions generating cheers from the audience.
Raffle tickets on American Airlines for a trip to El Conquistador Resort in Puerto Rico benefited ASPIRA of Florida and a 7 day Holland America Cruise donated to March of Dimes all generated more than $11,000 for charities.
The meticulously orchestrated show opened with a parade of 31 Former Honorees and Mistress of Ceremonies Myriam Masihy, Broward reporter for Univision Channel 23 who then recognized sponsors and Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart who presented the Latina Pioneer of the Year Award to Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Walking the runway with Viva Broward! founder, Dr. Erwin Vasquez, Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen gave an emotional and poignant speech regarding family, culture and service to the community.
The highlight of the day was the recognition of the 2008 Hispanic Women of Distinction. What makes this event different than others is the selection process. Former honorees nominated and 7 judges selected 12 winners from more than 50 applications. What these women have in common and was a major part of the judging process, is their American entrepreneurship intertwined with their cultural traditions and values.
