Workin’ It (Part 2) 2009
Chef/Owner, Bristen’s Eatery
Carleen Haughton, owner of Bristen’s Eatery in Crown Heights, Brooklyn was born in Kingston, Jamaica and migrated to the United States in 1984. She graduated from Hofstra University with a BS in Economics and Finance, and worked on Wall Street for 18 years. After 9/11, Haughton “decided it was important to do what I was passionate about.” In 2007, she graduated from The Institute of Culinary Education and opened Bristen’s Eatery. Haughton is committed to keeping prices affordable, while also using the best ingredients from local farmers and other local businesses. The menu includes hearty dishes such as omelettes, French toast, pancakes, generously stuffed paninis and burgers. Bristen’s is also dedicated to the community and working with youth. Her goal is to maintain a safe place for people to exchange information, have community meetings, play dates or just chat.
The Rest of the Best Of 2009’s Red Hot Entrepreneurs
Dede Frain
Founder, Babes Around Denver
Originally from Brooklyn, and a former Captain in the U.S. Army Nurse Corp, Dede Frain has always been a consummate networker and tireless organizer. Since there were no women’s venues in Denver, Colorado, and Frain’s circle
of friends wanted to meet up regularly, she decided to begin hosting happy hours. After a few successful events, Frain realized that the network was growing fast and there was a business opportunity at her fingertips. So in 2003, Frain started First Friday and Babes Around Denver to host events that benefitted social, charitable and political organizations of interest to the LGBT community and its allies. Frain says, “I strongly believe in inclusiveness and
connecting people of all ages and walks of life.” Over the last six years, “First Friday” has evolved into the largest standing party for lesbians and their friends in the United States, serving more than 1,500 women each month.
It’s no surprise that she has now also branched out into networking theater parties, and recreational outings.
