July/August 2023 | Issue 1, Volume3

Table of Contents Food. Fashion. Travel. Entertainment.

04

14

18

Publishers Message

Summer Music and Movies

06

28

Create a Tropical Paradise with a DIY Luau

Dubai Summer Fashions

Cover Story: Let's Travel to Hawaii

16

22

Fashion Shops in Dubai

11

32

TIn Roof Restaurant:

Celebrations around the U.S. for the 4th

Exquisite Hawaiin Cuisine

by Chef Sheldon Simeon

12

26

Foods that Heal

Did You Know? Fast Facts About Hawaii

2023 Essence Music Festival

24

30

Gen Z Travel

New Artist Alert!

Tobe Nwigwe!

Publisher & Founder Richard and Rolinda Cooley

Designer KatBro Consulting, Ltd.

Editor KatBro Consulting Ltd.

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 2

Egypt, Africa

Captain Steve's Restaurant in North/South Carolina

Summer Travel Adventures We invite all our readers to share their travel experiences with us! If you have recently had an unforgettable adventure, simply submit a photo of it to our website, attasteofculturemagazine.com.

We look forward to seeing your travel adventure!

Floridian Sunset

Brazil Aventure

Egypt, Africa

Paris, France

MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER

Cultural differences should not separate us from each other, but rather cultural diversity brings a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity. -Robert Alan I give thanks to The Father Above for leading the direction of A Taste of Culture Magazine. We are watching it take on a life of its own. I want to thank all of our readers and subscribers .

At A Taste of Culture Magazine, we are dedicated to showcasing the common threads that link cultures together through food, fashion, travel, and entertainment. Sign up for our email list at atasteofculturemagazine.com to receive updates on our content and join us on social media. You can even send us your own travel photos, restaurant reviews, fashion styles, entertainment news, artworks, books, and poetry.

I hope that everyone gets a Taste of Culture Experience

Rolinda Cooley

Publisher

Scan & Subscribe Connect with us on social media @atasteofculturemag A TASTE OF CULTURE | 4

Rolinda’s Favorite Culture Books An avid reader and traveler, Rolinda Cooley, co-founder of A Taste of Culture Magazine, loves sharing her favorite culture and travel books. Here are a few from her collection. We welcome readers to share their own favorite reads on our instagram page @atasteofculturemag

Click the titles to fine these books for purchase on amazon Rolinda loves ❤️coffee table books.

Have any you want to suggest for our next issue?

Submit them on our website, atasteofculturemagazine.com 5 | SUMMER 2023

FOOD

Create a Tropical Paradise with a DIY Luau

By Katie Browder-Person

Feeling cooped up and need an escape from the everyday? Vacation plans fell through?

Look no further than a DIY luau! By combining tropical decor, mouth-watering recipes, and fascinating Hawaiian tidbits, you’ll bring the islands to your own backyard.

To start, transform your space with lush greenery, bright flowers, and classic tiki torches. Play Hawaiian music in the background, and create a seating area with colorful beach towels or throw pillows. Add string lights for additional mood and evening lighting.

As for food, serve up kalua pork, coconut shrimp, and ahi poke for some authentic Hawaiian flavor. We’ve got a recipe, so need to look far.

Don’t forget the fruity cocktails - Mai Tais and Blue Hawaiians are sure to be a hit!

Now for some fun facts: Did you know that Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. that grows coffee? And that the island of Maui has the nickname “The Valley Isle”? And lastly, a traditional Hawaiian lei should be worn with the flowers pointing towards the ground to show respect to the land and ancestors.

With these tips, your DIY luau is sure to be a success - now sit back, relax, and enjoy your tropical paradise!

Photo by Lee Vue on Unsplash | Photo by Valiant Made on Unsplash | Photo by Z Grills Australia on Unsplash

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 6

Photo by Jez Timms on Unsplash

Kalua Pork Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that is simple yet bursting with flavor. This slow-cooked pork is a favorite for luaus and gatherings and can be enjoyed as a main dish or added to other dishes for added depth.

Ingredients: - 5 lb pork shoulder or pork butt - 1 tablespoon sea salt - 1 tablespoon liquid smoke - Banana leaves (optional) Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. 2. If you are using banana leaves, wash and cut them into strips, then line a baking dish with them.

3. Rub the pork shoulder with sea salt all over.

4. Drizzle liquid smoke on top of the pork and spread it out evenly.

5. Place the pork shoulder in the baking dish and wrap it tightly with the banana leaves (if using).

6. Cover the baking dish with foil, making sure to crimp the edges to seal in the steam.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 6 hours, or until the pork is falling apart tender.

8. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the baking dish and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.

9. Use a fork to shred the pork into small pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat.

10. Serve hot with your favorite sides or use in recipes like pulled pork sandwiches or Hawaiian-style fried rice.

Note: If you want to recreate the smoky flavor of cooking kalua pork in a traditional imu (underground oven), you can use a slow cooker or smoker instead of baking in the oven.

Simply follow the recipe instructions, then place the pork in a slow cooker or smoker instead of baking in the oven. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the pork is falling apart tender. If using a thermometer to check along the way, 145-160 degrees Fahrenheit is the safe and suggested temperature range for pork.

Photo by Lee Vue on Unsplash - at home party pic

7 | SUMMER 2023

FOOD Mai Tai Mai Tais are the perfect drink to transport you to a tropical paradise. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the taste of Hawaii in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients: - 2 ounces of dark rum - 1 ounce of light rum - 1/2 ounce of orange liqueur - 1 ounce of lime juice - 1/2 ounce of orgeat syrup - Splash of grenadine - Crushed ice - Pineapple wedge and cherry for garnish Instructions: 1. In a shaker, combine both rums, orange liqueur, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and grenadine.

2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.

3. Fill a tall glass with crushed ice.

4. Strain the cocktail into the glass.

5. Add more ice if necessary.

6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry on top.

7. Sip and imagine yourself lounging on a beach in Hawaii.

Enjoy your refreshing Mai Tai, and feel free to adjust the ratios to suit your taste.

You can also experiment with different types of rum or try adding a splash of pineapple juice for an extra tropical flavor. Cheers to a little taste of paradise!

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 8

Haupia Coconut Pudding For this quintessential luau dessert from Mark Reinfeld, the pudding should be sliced into petite squares and served on small pieces of ti or banana leaf.

Ingredients 3/4 cup cornstarch 2 14-oz. cans light coconut milk 1 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 pinch sea salt 1/2 cup coconut flakes 1/2 cup finely chopped macadamia nuts (toasting optional) Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Stir cornstarch into 3/4 cup cold water in bowl until dissolved. Set aside.

3. Bring coconut milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt to a boil in saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook 5 minutes, whisking constantly. Add cornstarch mixture, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 1 minute, whisking constantly. (Mixture has a tendency to bubble up.)

Transfer to prepared baking dish, and chill 1 hour, or until cool enough to slice.

4. Meanwhile, spread coconut flakes on small baking sheet, and toast 3 minutes, or until just golden.

Transfer to bowl. Toast macadamia nuts (if desired) on same baking sheet 5 minutes, or until just golden. Add to bowl with coconut flakes.

Sprinkle this mix- ture on top of haupia while cooling.

5. Slice cooled haupia into 16 small squares. Serve on pieces of ti leaves.

Image Source: vegetariantimes.com

9 | SUMMER 2023

FOOD

Summer Lovin’ Delicious favorites from around the world 🌍

Summertime is here! People around the world begin to dream of delicious seasonal dishes that will keep them cool and refreshed.

In Mexico, nothing says summer quite like a fresh bowl of Ceviche. This popular dish consists of fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, which gives it a tangy flavor and preserves the freshness of the fish. Served with chips, it’s a perfect snack for a hot day.

Photo by Hiroshi Tsubono on Unsplash - Kakigori photo

In Japan, they indulge in Kakigori, which is a traditional shaved ice dessert topped with fruit syrup and condensed milk. It’s a refreshing treat that’s perfect for beating the summer heat.

In the United States, BBQs are a staple of summertime cuisine. Nothing quite says “American summer” like a juicy burger hot off the grill. Paired with some corn on the cob, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a warm evening.

In Greece, it’s all about the light and flavorful Greek salad, filled with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s the perfect dish for a hot day when you’re looking for something light and refreshing.

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 10

In India, the monsoon season brings an abundance of fresh mangoes, and one of the most popular summer snacks is Aam Panna, a refreshing mango juice made with spices like cumin and coriander that will make your taste buds dance.

Tin Roof Restaurant Experience

Chef Sheldon Simeon’s Exceptional Hawaiian Cuisine Are you looking for an exceptional dining experience on your visit to Maui? Look no further than Tin Roof restaurant and its incredible chef, Sheldon Simeon.

Chef Sheldon’s career is studded with accolades and recognition from the James Beard Foundation, Top Chef, and Hawaii’s Best Chef awards, among others.

His rise to fame began with his stint as the Executive Chef of Star Noodle, Maui’s most celebrated restaurant.

At Tin Roof, Simeon offers a diverse menu that celebrates the local flavors of Hawaii. His must-try dish is the “Kau Kau Tin.” Photo courtesy of tinroofmaui.com

This delicious bowl combines Kalua pork, crispy garlic chicken, and homemade kimchi, all served over steamed rice.

Not only does Simeon create mouth-watering meals, but he also uses his platform to bring attention to important social issues, including immigration reform and food insecurity.

COOK REAL HAWAI’I is the story of Hawaii cooking, by a twotime Top Chef finalist and Fan Favorite, through 100 recipes that embody the beautiful cross-cultural

11 | SUMMER 2023

FOOD

4. Papaya:

2. Noni fruit: 1. Kalo:

Foods t (Native to

Hawaii is a paradise for those who love natural healing. This tropical island is known for its lush vegetation and a rich variety of foods that are packed with nutrients that can help in promoting better health. Here are 5 healing foods that are found in Hawaii that you can add to your diet.

1. Kalo: This starchy root is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine and has a variety of health benefits. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation.

2. Noni fruit: This fruit is a common ingredient in many Hawaiian medicines due to its antibacterial,

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 12 TASTE OF CULTURE | 12

anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Noni is known to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure and promote a healthy heart.

3. Macadamia nuts can help regulate cholesterol levels and boost brain function. These nuts are packed with nutrients such as magnesium, iron, and antioxidants.

4. Papaya: This tropical fruit is high in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system. It is also rich in enzymes that aid digestion and has antiinflammatory properties that can reduce pain and swelling.

5. Ginger:

3. Macadamia nuts

Homemade Hawaiian Ginger Ale

BY THE FAIRMONT ORCHID IN KOHALA COAST HI

6 Servings GINGER SYRUP 1 cup finely chopped peeled ginger 1 1/2 cup sugar

hat Heal

ASSEMBLY liter club soda 8 lime wedges Preparation GINGER SYRUP

Hawaii)

Step 1 Bring ginger, sugar, and 2 cups water to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit 30 minutes. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl or jar and discard ginger. Let cool completely. (You should have about 2 cups.)

By incorporating these 5 healing foods into your diet, you can promote better health and wellbeing while enjoying the beautiful tropical flavors of Hawaii.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATT DUCKOR

5. Ginger: This root has long been used for medicinal purposes and is found in many Hawaiian dishes.

Ginger can help reduce nausea and inflammation and boost the immune system.

ASSEMBLY Step 2 For each drink, add 1/4 cup ginger syrup and 1/2 cup club soda to an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice; stir to combine.

Garnish with a lime wedge.

Step 3 DO AHEAD: Ginger syrup can be made 1 month ahead. Cover and chill.

13| SUMMER 2023

FASHION

DUBAI SUMMER FASHION

by Sarah Hann

Dubai’s dynamic mix of East and West cre- ates a fashion experience that is a blend of cultural tradition and modern styles. It’s where classic meets contemporary, and tra- ditional attire can still look runway-ready.

Current Dubai fashion trends showcase this stunning blend of culture-meetsmodern. Traditional Arabic textiles have found their way onto high fashion runways in the city. Kaftans, Abayas, and Hijabs with intricate detailing bring new creative expression to the catwalks.

On the side of culture-meets-modern, street style fashion is popular. Trendy ath- leisure wear is everywhere giving comfort- able-yet-stylish looks. A mashup of retro, sports luxe, and futuristic design elements can also be seen.

Dubai is a fertile ground for talented design- ers, allowing them to grow their talents and flourish. Among them are couturiers such as Reem Acra and the duo behind House of Nomad. There are the unique brands, such as the streetwear brand Amongst Few, that have made a name for themselves with their urban clothing. Social media is a great way to find exciting, emerging talents–look them up, they’d love the followers!

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 14

Like others, Dubai’s fashion industry has its week to shine.

The annual Dubai Design Week attracts designers from all over the world as the Middle East’s biggest fashion event.

Local designers get their moment in the spotlight and on the runway showing their looks to a larger audience.

When in Dubai, shopping at local boutiques is a must. Boutiques like The Art of Living, and Sauce offer pieces showing off the flair of the Dubai fashion scene. For one-of-a- kind vintage pieces and Middle Eastern-inspired fashion, The Good Life Space is one of many great stops.

Dubai’s fashion world has become synony- mous with diversity, culture, and elegance. With a dynamic blend where East-meets- West, it’s found a unique place in the glob- al fashion scene unlike any other fash- ionminded city.

15 | SUMMER 2023

FASHION

Top Fashion Shopping Destinations in Dubai

Sauce Ready to shop ‘til you drop in Dubai? We found a selection of local favorite retail spots featuring fresh fashion, and more. Some even have in-store food selections, so no need to make other dining plans, either!

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 16

While Sauce has grown over the years to include more locations around Dubai, it’s small and independent origins paired with its growth and success earn it a mention on almost any Dubai fashion retail list. Be ready to shop the freshest and brightest looks no matter the location.

Dubai Flying Dress Private Photoshoot

By Floganza Dubai. Tripadvisor.com

Photo by Adryan RA on Unsplash

GIGI If you’re all about the hottest looks, save room in the suitcase so you can shop Gigi.

Timeless pieces blend with fresh accents to make for perfect night-on-the-town looks. Accessorize along the way with Gigi’s accessory collections and save time to enjoy the espresso bar, too!

Comptoir 102

urbanist

Comptoir 102 opened its doors in 2012 and is located in the heart of old Jumeirah.

Offering more than fresh fashion looks, the boutique is more of a concept store in also carrying beauty items and home goods.

With French influence from their founder, Comptoir 102 is a refreshing and contemporary blend of Paris and Dubai.

Described as London-meets-Dubai, Urbanist is another great example of cultural blending for elevated looks. Trendy with an urban edge, the looks hold true to the name. Urbanist also features styles from regional designers, showcasing local fashion talent.

17 | SUMMER 2023

TRAVEL

It’s Your Time To Travel “Now”

Let’s Visit Hawaii

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 18

Trade Office View for Ocean View: Plan Your Trip to Hawaii Hawaii is one of the most diverse places on earth and is rated as one of the top vacation destinations.

Hawaii’s climate is beach-perfect all year round, so you can plan a vacation in spring, summer, fall or winter. Beloved beach activities are always in season, whether you want a summer vacation or a winter escape.

by Perrine Hill Owner of Perrine’s Special Events and Tours

A big planning step is deciding to split your time between multiple islands or spend your trip on a single island. Each Hawaiian Island has its own appeal, so you’ll need to decide if you will set up camp on one island the entire time or travel between them. Consider your time and budget as you consider island hopping.

There are eight islands total in Hawaii: The Big Island (Hawai’i), Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe.

The first four islands are the most popular tourist attractions, while the others can provide more excluded getaways and private exploring.

19 | SUMMER 2023

TRAVEL The most traveled of all is Oahu, which boasts an exciting surf culture. The Big Island is about 200 miles away and is well-known for its diverse landscapes, including active volcanoes. Both Maui and Kauai are fan-favorite spots with great beaches and hiking. However, they're more laid-back and less crowded than Oahu.

The next step is planning & budget. Let’s face it, a Hawaii vacation can be expensive; flights, hotels and activities add up quickly.

But, with a little planning ahead your “daydreams” will become a reality. The further in advance you plan and book, the better the deals. Often, hotels and activities will also honor any new deals that launch after you make your reservation.

First-time Hawaii travelers on a budget may be wondering which island is most affordable. I’ve found that Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island and has an abundance of hotels, activities, tours, and attractions, included the famed Waikiki Beach.

Next, planning when to vacation in Hawaii plays into the budget. Like many destinations, “peak” and “low” seasons drive prices which will drive some to travel during the “low” season.

To make sure you stay within budget, have an itinerary planned out for each day so you can visualize your expenses for the day and even make adjustments should plans change along the way.

RESTAURANTS & HAWAIIAN CUISINE Feast on fresh, local ingredients. In addition, a lot of the food is inspired by Japanese, Korean, Chinese,

Local foods are grown and produced on the islands, making for a true farm-to-table experience with the freshest selections possible.

Load up on delicious cultural food when you enjoy the all-youcan-eat Polynesian buffet at the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau.

ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES Experience one of Hawaii’s most popular attrac- tions! The Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu fea- tures six authentic island villages themed around different Polynesian nations, their music, dance and culture. Mingle with the islanders and enjoy an array of hands-on activities.

and other Asian influences. It’s not just food, but also the “mood”, so you’ll dine like royalty between the food and the ambience.

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 20

Fireknife Pyramid - “HA: Breath of Life” show at the Polynesian Cultural Center, Laie, Oahu, Hawaii Hula dancers performing in yellow skirts and headdresses on the beach at sunset at The Feast at Mokapu Luau in Wailea, Hawaii, USA.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION Ground transportation choices may vary based on your personal needs, interests, and your budget. In addition to rental cars, Oahu has ride share services, but also budget-friendly public transportation that is easy to use. Planning ground transportation in advance for any island can help stay within budget and avoid expensive, last-minute “panic” purchases.

Ready for flip flop days and luau nights? Replace that office view with an ocean view! Hawaii is the perfect destination for both exploring and relaxing. Say, “Aloha!” to living life on Hawaiian island time. ◗

Luau's are a must see when visiting Hawaii. The can include buffet style dinners, Hoola dancers and traditional Polynesian music.

FLIGHTS Are you still planning your budget and you’re not quite ready to book?

You can sign up for notifications about price changes with the airline and even flights of your choice.

Walking Trail

Out of flight-booking practice and need some additional tips? Read on!

Be flexible about when you fly. The best deals may not be during your preferred time to fly or could include more layovers than you’d like. If you live near more than one major airport, price check all possible airports and not just your favorite. The airport without your favorite coffee shop might just have the best rates to Hawaii!

Book as early as possible. Flight prices tend to increase as the date of the flight approaches. Off-season flights are typically the cheapest.

Additionally, flying during the middle of the week can save money.

21 | SUMMER 2023

TRAVEL

DID YOU KNOW: FUN FACTS ABOUT HAWAII Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches.

Many beaches are filled with white sand and some of the Hawaiian shores are also covered with green, red, pink, and even black sand.

The Banyan Tree in Hawaii is the largest Banyan tree in the United States and one of the largest in the world. Lahaina’s giant Banyan tree is 60 feet high and 200 feet wide, filling most of the block that makes up Banyan Tree Park on Front Street, behind the Lahaina Harbor.

The United States is one of the countries that consume the most coffee, and Hawaii is a heavy producer of coffee. As of the 2019-20 growing season, over 6900 acres of land were in coffee growth and production.

Hawaii is home to one of the most expensive coffees due to the black, volcanic soil. Although Hawaii produces coffee all year round, the season particularly blooms after summer.

Puerto Rico is the only other US state or territory where coffee production is so prevalent.

(

(

TRAVEL TIP: Sometimes it may be cheaper to book a flight to a city closer to Hawaii on one airline and finish the rest of your trip from that city to Hawaii on a different airline.

FIND AUTHENTIC HAWAIIN COFFEE: The Best of Hawaii’s Farmer’s Markets Under One Tent at www.hawaiianfarmersmarket.com

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 22

Kilauea is the most volcano in the world.

active

Referred to as just “the volcano” by residents of Hawaii, Kilauea is the newest volcano in the Hawaiian Island chain, which was created as the Pacific tectonic plate shifted northwest over a volcanic hotspot.

This same hotspot is now creating fresh land on the south side of the Big Island.

Kilauea currently emits the most lava of all the active volcanoes in the world.

Did you know Maui is one of the world’s best places for whale watching?

Every year, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Maui to give birth and mate.

Humpback whales migrating South from Alaska are frequently seen from November to May.

23 | SUMMER 2023

TRAVEL

GEN Z ON TRAVEL

What is Gen Z? Aged between eight and 23 years old, generation Z or the post-millennial generation.

As a member of GenZ, I find travel to be one of the most important things in life.

The world is becoming more and more accessible, and it is an opportunity that we just cannot afford to miss out on.

When I travel, I look for new experiences that allow me to learn about differ- ent cultures and broaden my perspective. I also want to make sure that the environment and people are treated respectfully.

I find myself most drawn to places that offer adventure, unique activities, and beautiful natural landscapes. Places like Bali, Japan, and Iceland have all caught my eye with their cultural richness and diversity. Moreover, it is essential that I can travel safely and afford- ably, and that is where technology plays a crucial role in our generation.

Photo by Timo Stern on Unsplash

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 24

By: Ciara Person

Technology and social media help me re- search and plan my trips efficiently and have led me to discover new destinations that I may have never thought to explore before. From finding the best local eats to discover- ing off-the-beaten-track destinations, tech- nology plays a huge role in our travel expe- riences. Ultimately, I believe that travel is an investment in myself, and it is something I will always prioritize in my life.

by Ciara Person Travel Social Media Affiliate

ENTERTAINMENT

Movies to Watch this summer Transformers: Rise of the Beasts (2023) | June 9th

Watch the trailer

The Transformers franchise takes another step back in time after the 1980s-set Bumblebee, taking viewers back to the mid-’90s as a pair of archaeologists stumble into a three-way conflict between different factions of Transformers.

The film is loosely based on the Beast Wars storyline and directed by Steven Caple Jr. (Creed II), with Peter Cullen reprising his role as the voice of Optimus Prime and people like Ron Perlman, Anthony Ramos, and Dominique Fishback joining the cast.

How Do You Live? July 14

The most revered Japanese animator, Hayao Mi- yazaki, has been working on How Do You Live? for nearly six years, intending to create it exclusively through hand-drawn animation. After making some of the best-animated films of all time, this movie is expected to be his magnum opus. He has revealed that the movie is a sort of gift he’s leaving behind for his grandson. The movie is based on an eponymous book by writer Genzaburo Yoshino and explores the life and growth of a 15-year-old boy named Koperu.

Animal | August 11

Animal is another major Indian movie releasing in 2023 with great implications for future trends in Indian cinema. Similar to Jawan, Animal is a muchanticipated collaboration between Bolly- wood and Tollywood — the Telugu film industry. The movie is written and directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga from Tollywood. Ranbir Kapoor, who is the biggest current-generation star from Bollywood’s oldest film family, will be starring in this crime action movie. In keeping with the pan-Indian formula, Animal will be released simultaneously in five different Indian languages.

A TASTE OF CULTURE | 26

Summer music faves Norman Brown American Jazz Guitarist - Let's Get Away

The riveting ten-track set showcases the genius and flair that has landed Norman Brown at the top of the charts time and time again.

Featuring originals composed by Norman Brown and various album personnel, Brown’s highly anticipated new recording fuses the best elements of Jazz, R&B, Pop, Blues, and beyond. Learn more at www.normanbrown.com

Lance Vantile Whitfield- Unbossed As an award winning creative professional, Lance Whitfield has provided art direction for over 10 entertainment magazines, 8 award shows, and countless film & television projects. He also led a design team that produced digital advertising campaigns for 17 U.S. markets. isten to a sample on www.lancewhitfield.com/

Watch Bobby Jones Presents WEEKENDS Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones has shared his International and National platforms with so many. Jones, a Grammy- and Dove-winning signer known for the “Bobby Jones Gospel” television program now host of Bobby Jones Presents WEEKENDS. For more information and to hear new music go to bobbyjonespresents.com

27 | SUMMER 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIP HOP!

by Tammy Hudson Get ready for an epic weekend of music, culture, and art at the 2023 Essence Music Festival held in New Orleans, LA on June 29th through Monday July 2nd. This year’s 50th anniversary festival promises to be one for the books with an incredible lineup of talented artists and exclusive events.

The festival’s lineup features some of the most talented and respected artists of today, such as Missy Elliott, Salt-N-Peppa, Ludacris, Ice Cube and Lauryn Hill. But that’s not all.

This year, you can also enjoy performances from other talented artists such as Angie Martinez, Jermaine Dupri, and Megan Thee Stallion.

Those attending the festival in-person have countless entertainment and party options beyond the music performances. Many exclusive party options are available for all sorts of party vibes.

And that’s just the festival–don’t forget about New Orleans itself! Like any festival, New Orleans goes all-out and if you’re bored during Essence Festival, it’s your own fault.

Not in New Orleans? No worries! Thanks to Hulu you can enjoy Essence Festival from your own home. As the official streaming destination, you can catch the primetime livestream, in addition to highlights from daytime performances, and much more. This is included in standard Hulu packages, so no upgrades or add-ons required.

On June 30, July 1 and July 2, you can enjoy a full, live, five-hour block of Essence Festival performances. Invite some friends over and throw your own Essence Festival party. Music is meant to bring us together, and streaming lets us do that no matter where we are. So gather up your friends, your favorite snacks and drinks and celebrate 50 years of the biggest celebration of hip hop!

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Enjoying Essence Festival, whether home or in NOLA? Share your experience with us on instagram

29 | SUMMER 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

Watch out for Tobe Nwigwe!

Born in Lagos, Nigeria in 1986, Tobe Nwigwe moved to Houston at the age of eight with his parents. He played football in high school and in college at University of North Texas.

Tobe was in conversation to be drafted into the NFL until he suffered a foot injury, which totally shifted his career path.

As a child he was exposed to different genres of music including Hip-Hop, R&B, Gospel and Afrobeat. His love for music grew stronger as he got older and it was this passion that led him to pursue a career in music.

Tobe was up for the 2023 Grammy Award for Best New Artist, but he lost to Samara Joy. Before the ceremony, Tobe walked the red carpet with his wife, Martica ‘Fat’ Nwigwe,

Although Nwigwe is best known for his music career, did you know he is also an action movie star? The 36-year-old rapper made his film debut and is now being considered one of the breakout stars of Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, which was released in June 2023.

Listen

Https://lnk.to/TobeNwigwe-moMINTs

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ENTERTAINMENT

Celebrating 4th of July Ar For nearly four decades, Macy’s New York has presented a spectacular fireworks show. It is the largest display in the nation, captivating millions of people annually. From the vivid hues and dazzling lights to the amazing effects, the display never fails to astound. A massively popular event, the fireworks display is always surrounded by an electrifying atmosphere of enthusiasm.

Address: Manhattan, Queens & Brooklyn Website: social.macys.com

Washington D.C. provides a true patriotic experience, complete with a magnificent fireworks display. People often arrive early, having prepared a picnic for the whole family, to make the most of the day. Once night falls, the grand display of fireworks begins and those present can take the time to explore the monuments that the city is known for. A day here is a day to remember.

Address: Constitution Ave NW, Washington DC Website: www.nps.gov

This Fourth of July, enjoy a unique event featuring the classic combination of music and fireworks. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular is a renowned show that brings history to life with music, pyrotechnics fired from the Charles River, and more. It’s a mustsee for anyone looking for a festive evening of fun.

Address: 222 Berkeley St Boston, MA 02116

Tag us on Instagram - Share your favorite 4th Celebration @atasteofculturemag A TASTE OF CULTURE | 32

round the U.S. On the Fourth of July, Addison Kaboom Town, Texas is packed with people coming to experience its extraordinary fireworks displays. The bustling suburb of Dallas provides thrilling aerial acrobatics, along with stunning vistas from which to watch the spectacular pyrotechnics. To top it all off, many of its citizens host special firework viewing parties.

Address: 5100 Beltline Rd Suite 430 & 400, Addison, Texas 75254 Website: www.addisonkaboomtown.com

A mesmerizing fireworks display is the star attraction of Lake Tahoe in California. Witnessing the area’s unparalleled beauty is enough, but the awe-inspiring display of light that’s mirrored off the lake surface makes the experience all the more special. The display creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, where the firework colors splash the sky and the lake surface alike.

Address: 3066 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 Website: www.tahoe.com

Philadelphia, plays host to an eight-day Wawa Welcome America Festival

. Visitors can enjoy a range of events, such as outdoor movies, ice cream bonanzas, and free museum admission.

On July 4th and 5th, Chestnut street will be transformed with the marching of Army bands and bugle corps, as well as the colourful and creative Mummers, Philadelphia’s well-known parade participants in outrageous costumes.

At noon, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will become the venue of a party filled with fun activities and delicious food. In the evening, the biggest free concert in the country starts, eventually leading up to the spectacular fireworks display at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Best viewing spots: If you forgo the concert but still want to see the fireworks, bring a blanket to Boathouse Row or Schuylkill River Park.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Abstract Arrt by Tangee

Do not discount the artist of the age who have not made a name for themselves Tangee resides in Cols OH .She has painted abstract paintings for quite a while on canvas and Prince candy is sharing her creative art paintings with the public to view she also wants to put a abstract book of all of her art and addition one what do you see or God moved me she has painted on canvas and you can get lost in her abstract art work and is doing her abstract art canvas from soul and spirit.

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A TASTE OF CULTURE | 34

Poets Corner

To Be...

by: Richard Edward Cooley, Poet

TO BE BE YOURSELF OR

BY YOURSELF IN FRONT OF EVERYONE ELSE NOW THAT MAY BE A PLACE NOT TO BE BUT IF I WERE YOU OR WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE I’M THROUGH WITH IT OR IT MAYBE THROUGH WITH ME WHO CARES AFTER ALL IT WAS MEANT TO BE

Richard Edward Cooley, Poet

Nothing Before It’s Time How often do we plan our lives In the will of our own hands Just wanting things to happen In our own way, As quick as it can We want everything right now, No matter at what cost we must pay. And when it turns to failure, We ask God to deliver us from dismay See, no matter how hard in life We push and demand to make our climb, just remember It’s God will to follow, and Nothing is Never Before It’s Time.

Want to see your writing featured?

Submit your poem at: atasteofculturemagazine.com 43 | SUMMER 2023

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