Sites&Sounds

“We need to harness the opportunities we have to volunteer our time and talents for the
betterment of ourselves and our communities.”
— Queen Lynette R.F. Smith, Woman of the Year 2007

Lynette R.F. Smith, 60, won the top honor in this year's American Classic Woman of the Year Pageant ceremony, held at Shaw Jr High School, honoring women in Washington DC. Mrs Smith is a retired biologist, medial techician, research microbiologist in government service and a Howard University Graduate. She married and a the mother of 2, grandmother of 3.

The previous Mayor's mother, Virginia Hayes Williams, added her grace and charm to the other regal ladies taking part in this year's Woman of the Year Pageant.

Mrs Williams receives an honorary Woman of the year award from pageant director, Letha Blount and ANC2C01 Commiissioner / Shaw Main Streets Director Alexander M Padro.

Dunbar High School's Color Guard opened the ceremony.

Ladies in waiting. Nominees for the Woman of the year prepare for another round of the competition.

Above, nominees perform in dance and song for the talent segment of the competition.

Commissioner Chapple and another attendant wait to escort contestants to the stage.

A traditional African dance was performed by a guest artist while the judges made their final choice.