Mrs. Cruz was born and raised in the Philippines. She has a BS degree from Santo Thomas University and her family resides in Makati .
For the past 8 years the Harveys have operated their coffee company in the St. Louis area. At present they have 5 locations, with a 6th one in the planning.
"We roast our own coffee," Mrs. Harvey explains, "and we specialize in coffee from the Philippines . As far as we know we are the only company that is emphasizing the coffee of my home. It is a small way for me to help my country."
The Harveys also have an international market through the internet, www.stlcoffeeroasters.com
"We ship all over the world; our coffee even has been carried by our friends who are in Iraq and Afghanistan . It is a blessing to know that they get some comfort with a taste of home, our coffee!"
The Harveys hope to have more contacts to buy their Philippine green coffee beans and also to open a business in the Philippines.
"I want to help others to have a future, Mrs. Harvey stated. "It is a help to our farmers to introduce their fine coffees to America ."
The Harveys have been presented awards for their services from the St. Louis Weekly Journal, the Missouri Legislature, Congressman John Shimkus, The Illinois Air National Guard and 375th Medical Mission Team.
"We have been blessed by many friends who want us to succeed. This last year I had colon cancer," Mrs. Harvey stated, "but now I am cancer free for 11 months. God has blessed me, my husband and our company with all the fine customers and friends.