Honey Bugs Shine at 10th Annual Hats Off Luncheon

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On May - 31 - 2012

Tracy Wilson Mourning with beautiful Honey Bugs

We were thrilled to see the joy on the faces of the” Honey Bugs” as they rushed to greet the gorgeous Tracy Wilson Mourning upon her arrival at the Asian-themed 10th Annual Hats Off luncheon on Tuesday, May 8, at Jungle Island, to benefit the Honey Shine Mentoring Program, a program which she founded to provide support and guidance to hundreds of girls (Honey Bugs) in the community.

Tracy was joined by her husband, NBA Champion Alonzo Mourning, who graciously mingled and took photos with admiring fans before giving an inspiring speech in which he lauded his wife and encouraged continued support of Honey Shine. When Tracy took the stage, she shared that 15 of the Honey Bugs have successfully graduated and gone on to higher education thanks to funds raised through Hats Off. “The luncheon was amazing. Our Honey Bugs were glowing and the community support was stellar”, said Tracy.

Honey Shine Members and Co-chairs Cathy Blank and Monisha Melwani helped lead the effort, resulting in a successful silent auction and Camp Honey Shine appeal. Between the Membership program, ticket sales, auction, and appeal, $250,000 was raised for the program. Special recognition was given to Steering Committee Member of the Year, Ayana Rodriguez, and Honey Bug of the Year, Jasmine Thompson, who was selected for her overall achievements in the program. To add, two outstanding role models, Tahiese Beckford and Jonaura Wisdom, were honored with the Mentor of the Year Award.

The highlight of the afternoon was the Honey Bug showcase, where the girls showed off their talents by singing, dancing and walking the runway to model fashions provided by GAP, Aleren, Bloomingdale’s Aventura, Manisha Patel and MIA Shoes.

To join the Honey Shine program or to make a donation, visit HONEYSHINE.org.