FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE WITHIN THE U.S., CALL 800.723.3984. OUTSIDE THE U.S., CALL 818.487.2059.
THE RESIDENCES
BEACHFRONT VILLAS ON GRACE BAY BEACH
The Residences is a new division of Grace Bay Resorts that seeks to refine luxury villa ownership, creating some of the most exclusive and sophisticated beachfront residences for its growing list of international travelers. A private gated beachfront enclave, enjoying all the comforts of a personalized home, with services of a five-star resort.
These three custom homes each boast four bedrooms and five bathrooms, with a fifth bedroom and bathroom available as a detached cottage. Starting from 6,000 sq ft each home is located on a 95-foot wide, three quarter acre parcel of pristine, private beachfront.
Book your stay at The Residences, named Best Hotel Villa Worldwide on the award winning Grace Bay Beach by Luxury Travel Advisor.
INCLUDED:
• Airport meet and greet
• Private SUV transfer to/from airport
• Personal concierge (accessible by complimentary mobile phone)
• Complimentary start-up bar (rum, vodka + mixers, wine and beer)
• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary shuttle for dining purposes only to Grace Bay Club or West Bay Club (lunch or dinner reservations required)
• Daily bottled water replenished
• Complimentary WiFi, local and long distance phone calls from Private Residence
Grace Bay Club | Grace Bay Circle Rd, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands B.W. I Resort Phone: (649) 946-5050 | Reservations: (800) 946-5757 | Email: reservations@gracebayclub.com GRACEBAYCLUB.COM
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Own Your Financial Future
Let’s Make Financial Success a New Family Tradition
BY NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL
As you begin your journey toward a family of your own, you may be thinking about how to set new family traditions that build financial confidence and prosperity. From starting a business to owning a home and watching your kid graduate (maybe even crossing the stage at Howard University or Florida A&M), these goals and traditions can be within reach. That’s something to celebrate and go after!
But as your success gains momentum, you might have questions about what to do financially. That’s okay, we’re here to help so you don’t have to go at it alone.
Family milestones—like seeing your kids graduate without a huge amount of college debt or supporting your community—take planning. Storing cash or leaving money in a savings account will only get you so far. The key is to get started now and take advantage of financial tools, including some you may not have heard enough about.
To help you reach financial confidence and set new family finance traditions, consider these five key steps:
1. Prepare for your family’s education
While there are several tax-advantaged accounts that let you save for education, the most common is a 529 plan. The account will grow tax-free, then as long as your beneficiary uses the money for qualified educational expenses, they won’t owe federal tax when they withdraw the funds. And there are new opportunities to use the money for a beneficiary’s retirement if it’s not used for education. Most states do not tax qualified payouts (distributions), and you even get credit or tax deductions now.
2. Save so that you don’t have to work some day Retirement for us will be different from what our parents and grandparents had. It’s smart to put money
away for retirement as soon as you’re able, so check whether your employer offers a plan like a 401(k) or 403(b). These accounts allow you to save on taxes as you save for a comfortable retirement, and you typically contribute the money directly from your payroll. If you’re self-employed or a plan isn’t available through work, look into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). It’ll work a little differently than an account sponsored by your employer, but will help you save— while keeping more of your money instead of paying it in taxes.
Investments can be a great way to grow your money over time. But investments alone can leave you vulnerable. That’s why it’s so important to include strategies to help protect the income that you’ll use to create generational wealth.
3. Safeguard your family’s financial stability
You may think of life insurance for funeral expenses, but there’s much more to it. A policy helps your family’s financial stability if you pass away earlier than expected. Life insurance can help ensure your loved ones may be able to keep the family home, avoid picking up another job and achieve their college dreams.
You have many types of life insurance to choose from to meet your needs and your budget. Term life insurance will pay a death benefit during a certain time frame. But there’s also permanent life insurance, which pays a death benefit no matter when you die—and includes additional benefits that you can use when you’re alive.
Whole life insurance, for example, provides a life-long death benefit and builds cash value that’s guaranteed to grow year after year. Once your policy builds up cash value, you can access it for any reason, like to upgrade your house, help pay for education or take advantage of a business opportunity. But accessing cash value reduces your death benefit.
4. Strengthen your family’s safety net
Your ability to earn a living is probably the most important financial asset you have—it funds all of your expenses and goals for the future. While it may not seem like it, even an ordinary paycheck adds up over time. All your pay will total hundreds of thousands of dollars, maybe even millions over your lifetime. Unfortunately, disability is fairly common—about one in four people will become disabled by illness or injury before age 67.1
Disability income insurance can provide a critical safety net, allowing you to cover your expenses and continue building your wealth if you’re unable to work due to injury or illness.
5. Talk to a financial pro
The good news is that you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Talking with a financial expert can be a game
changer. In fact, Northwestern Mutual’s 2024 Planning and Progress study showed that, on average, AfricanAmericans who work with us:
• expect to retire more than 2 years earlier (age 61.1 versus 63.5)
• plan to pay off college debt 5.5 years faster (pay off at age 40.7 versus 46.2)
• have nearly three times as much in retirement savings ($71,000 vs. $26,000)
Our financial professional will ask thought-provoking questions to guide the conversation. They’ll learn about your biggest financial fears and deepest dreams to tailor a financial plan with recommendations just for you.
Learn more about building generational wealth with Northwestern Mutual
1. Based on today’s 20-year-olds. U.S. Social Security Administration Fact Sheet.
This article is part of a paid program. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. This article is not intended as legal or tax advice. Consult with a tax professional for tax advice that is specific to your situation.
“I wrote this book to fill a gap, offering in-depth, personal stories about the artisans behind African objects.
By sharing these makers’ stories alongside diverse global perspectives and thoughtful homes layered with these wares,
I aim to show that African decor can inspire and belong to everyone.”
~ Nazosi Kakembo, Author & Designer
Travel with Ugandan American designer Nasozi Kakembo as she explores culturally significant African objects—from Malian mudcloth to Moroccan rugs—at the source and offers guidance on sourcing, collecting and decorating inside The African Decor Edit: Collecting and Decorating with Heritage Objects.
Nasozi founded xN Studio (“Lifestyle—Without Borders”) as an interior design and product design practice that collaborates with artisans throughout Africa. Through xN Studio, she cultivates her deep knowledge of ethically sourced and aesthetically elevated heritage wares.
Each chapter introduces artisans in their home countries, sharing their talents, work and stories. The book demonstrates the beauty of artisans’ objects as decor, with a collection of inspiring, layered interiors designed by captivating people from across the globe. As the definitive decor book celebrating African artistry, Nasozi guides everyone to take their own journey using the Ethical Sourcing Guide.
The African Decor Edit: Collecting and Decorating with Heritage Objects is a must-have for all who admire thoughtful interiors and wish to collect and decorate with ethically sourced African wares.
Nasozi Kakembo is the author of The African Decor Edit: Collecting and Decorating with Heritage Objects—her debut book that launches on October 1, 2024 with Abrams Books. With a unique blend of Uganda heritage and American upbringing, Nasozi seamlessly integrates traditional African objects with contemporary aesthetics, garnering global acclaim for deepening the necessity for ethically sourced African wares as decor. Nasozi has more than a decade of experience in international development worldwide.
Having traveled to 42 countries, she brings deep, authoratative knowledge to her work.
Nasozi holds a BS in Art History focusing on Architecture and African Art, and an MSc in Urban Planning. As an expert and storyteller, Nasozi redefines how all can collect, appreciate and incorporate African artistry into sacred spaces, from homes to commercial spaces.
The High Life
Hotels come and go, but icons never die.
BY RONDA RACHA PENRICE
THESE HOTELS, WHERE SUCH LEGENDS AS DUKE ELLINGTON, MILES DAVIS, NAT KING COLE, LENA HORNE, SAMMY DAVIS, JR., MICHAEL JACKSON, AND EVEN TUPAC ONCE RESTED THEIR WEARY BONES ARE A TESTAMENT TO QUALITY AND ICONOGRAPHY. FROM CHICAGO TO CAPE TOWN, NEW YORK TO HAVANA AND MANY POINTS IN BETWEEN, THESE LANDMARK HOTEL ARE HISTORIC MUST-STAYS.
ç Miami Beach
Fontainebleau
Today, the Fontainebleu, which opened in 1954, may be better known for its Sunday night debauchery at Liv that brings all of today’s celebs to the yard, but the Miami Beach staple earned its “Famously Fontainebleu” tag catering to the likes of original “Rat Pack” legend, Sammy Davis Jr., who was a frequent guest. 4441 Collins Avenue. 305.538.2000. fontainebleu.com
Chicago c
Palmer House –A Hilton Hotel
In her day, few stars topped Pearl Bailey, the singer/actress who received a Tony Award for the black-cast version of Hello Dolly! and starred alongside Dorothy Dandridge in Carmen Jones Bailey was such a fixture at the Empire Room of Chicago’s famed Palmer House, now in its 140th year, that, today, a beautiful picture of her is one of the hotel’s many highlights. 17 East Monroe Street. 312.726.7500. palmerhousehiltonhotel.com
Cape Town
Table Bay Hotel
Located on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Table Bay Hotel is among the very few places that truly pleased Michael Jackson. Views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain only enhance its spacious and intimate accommodations plus Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years, is nearby, which is why Mandela himself was on hand for the hotel’s 1997 opening. Quay 6 Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. +27 21 406 5000. suninternational.com/table-bay
Havana Hotel Nacional de Cuba
Jay-Z and Beyoncé visiting Cuba may ignite political outrage today, but there was a time when Cuba was a jet set destination and the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, which opened in 1930, was the place de riguer. Eartha Kitt inaugurated the hotel’s Cabaret Parisien in 1956 and, though racism prevented Nat King Cole from initially staying there, today, his preferred room 218 houses a bust in honor of him. Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza Calle 19. +53 7836356467. hotelnacionaldecuba.com
New York
JW Marriott
Essex House NY
One of New York’s enduring hotels, Bob Marley was among the many famed guests at the Essex House and even conducted interviews there for what would be his last tour in 1980. Unfortunately it is also the hotel where another legend, Donny Hathaway, reportedly leaped to his death a year earlier. 160 Central Park South. 212.247.0300. marriott.com
POSTED UP
After opening its doors several years ago in the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, widely considered the pulse of Los Angeles’s African-American community, Post & Beam is still going strong, packing in its neighbors as well as stars like Denzel Washington.
BY MALCOLM JOHNSON
Named and built in homage to the housing style common throughout the area, Post & Beam, from veteran restaurateur Brad Johnson and acclaimed chef Govind Armstrong, stands worlds apart from where Golden Bird Fried Chicken once did.
“This neighborhood is just so rich, culturally,” says Johnson, who opened the upscale casual eatery with the backing of Magic Johnson’s former business partner Ken Lombard’s Capri Capital Partners. Attracting the attention the venture deserved, however, posed another challenge but Johnson easily found the solution.
“I knew that I needed someone with real chef credentials and Govind was that guy,” says Johnson, perhaps best known for opening Georgia on fabled Melrose Avenue in the 1990s.
Armstrong, Johnson’s chef/partner here and at Willie Jane, their other restaurant in Venice Beach, famously got his start under the tutelage of Wolfgang Puck at the original Spago. Before joining forces with Johnson, he already had several successful restaurants, including the popular Table 8 and 8oz Burger Bar, under his hat, along with television appearances on shows such as Iron Chef America. Born in Inglewood, Armstrong, the offspring of a Costa Rican mother, who sparked his early interest in food, and an African American father, is especially at home at Post & Beam.
“I love cooking here. I just love seeing the room full of people. It’s such a great feeling,” admits Armstrong. Putting a finger on what Post & Beam is misses the point. Its well-purposed menu and inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for both a date or family outing, watching the game with friends or for a post-church brunch.
“I don’t just want to do soul food. That’ll be too easy,” says Armstrong. “The menu is always evolving. We were running octopus for a while and that was quite successful… It’s just a good mix [of] food that’s very approachable, but still interesting.”
At Post & Beam, guests can order greens by themselves or with ham hocks, the popular spicy turkey meatballs as well as wood-fired pizzas served with many sides and herbs
grown on-site. Of course, there are diehard favorites. “Short ribs stay on the menu. I will get stabbed if I take that off,” laughs Armstrong. “The cast iron chicken has been on since day one.”
There was a time when no one could have envisioned a place like Post & Beam in this neighborhood. But it happened; and the partners are optimistic about the future. “I think people still come in here with high expectations,” says Armstrong. “They want good solid food, great service and that’s what we’re here for.”
Govind Armstrong and Brad Johnson
The Wonder of Istanbul
The exotic, transcontinental city, where Europe and Asia meet, is a must for any curious traveler.
BY ISOUL HARRIS
From the marvel of the Bosphorus Strait and beautiful ancient structures to the multitextured nabes and markets, Istanbul is one of the most breathtaking locales on the planet. Since Turkish Airlines began frequent, direct flights, tourism has boomed in Turkey’s largest city and cultural capital .
STAY
Once a tobacco warehouse in the 1920s, the Shangri-La Bosphorus, on the western bank of Istanbul, is a 5-star hotel option for those looking for a sophisticated, classic aesthetic while enjoying the outrageous—and centuries old—splendor that is Istanbul. Only 45 minutes from Ataturk International and minutes from many of the city’s must-visit nabes, the lobby
is its own singular attraction. Muted marble abounds (purposely reminiscent of a palace) among the antique-like, yet inviting, furnishings. Décor fiends will admire the stunning two -story bohemian glass chandelier suspended between the 1st and ground floors. As hard as it will be to actually venture outside, the hotel’s ideal location, on the western bank of Istanbul, lends itself to easy exploring, such as the neighboring Dolmabahce Palace, former home to Turkey’s first president, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.
Spacious suites offer private terraces with magnificent views—with the Bosphorus Bridge to the left and Asia to the right (tip: book the Deluxe Bosphorus Suite for double the fun and sun). Istanbul has an ever-evolving culinary culture, so make sure and try the inventive
A view of the facade of the Shangri-La on the Bosphorus River
The lobby of the Shangri-La Bosphorus
Chinese-Cantonese menu at the hotel’s Shang Palace. While there, take in the artful pouring of the Kung Fu Tea Master from a 5-foot spout—it is bucket-list worthy. Breakfast at the other hotel restaurant, Ist Too, is an event. Get up for it. Thank us later.
After a long day trekking through the bazaars and touring ancient wonders, there is no better way to unwind than at the Chi Spa, indulging in signature Asian treatments and also the traditional (and unforgettable) Turkish hammam. The design of this hotel was altered to save a 150-year old tree, so. So, imagine the care and the concern extended to the guests?
EXPLORE
Istanbul is a city of beautiful neighborhoods. A 15-minute walk from the Shangri-La are indemand restos, cool bars and the pretty people
of Bebek. Make sure to distance yourself from the tourist traps and venture through Beyoğlu district and enjoy the cobblestone gorgeousness of Galata—where you can shop for clothing from Turkish designers and sip coffee at the perfect-for-people-watching cafes. In the same district, head to Karaköy—the Gemini nabe of the city—its two sides show the contemporary (friends frolic among the litter of cafes and sip on specialty teas in Touphane) and the old world (the streets of Halic Bay are lined with merchants hawking goods and fishermaen showing off their catch of the day). Make your way to the alluring Istanbul Modern, a warehouse on the front of the Bosphorus that is the country’s first private museum to exhibit contemporary art.
Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents and a boat or ferry is the best way to experience it;. Ttake a commuter route like a local or, to simply take in the drama of the waterwa ys, hop on a vapur (ferry) from Karaköy and travel across the Bosphorus, and catch an arresting view of the Blue Mosque. The Aghia Sophia qualifies as tourist central, but this former Byzantine church constructed in 537 AD, is now a museum and otherworldly in its mass and magnificence.
EAT & PLAY
Istanbul may be a city steeped in Islam, but its booming nightlife betrays any notion that it does not know how to have fun. Want live music? Babylon is the place to find Turkish jazz as well as Rreggae and also EDM. The TurkishAmerican fare of Lucca is just as gorgeous as the casting of this Bebek-centered restaurant. Tatbak, in the Nisantasi district, is a fave among locals as well as the jet set who frequent Istanbul. (Tip: Try the Lahmacun—a thin crust Turkish pizza—and a Lahmacun Salad, which consists of herbs, tomatoes and lemon.) After Ramadan, the dining rooms at Tatbak are packed and the phone orders are exponential. With its prime real estate overlooking the Bosphorus, Reina is the premier nightclub in all of Turkey. And it’s its A-List celebrity clientele—from Jennifer Lopez and Kobe Bryant to Sting and Salma Hayek—has made it globally renowned. The onsite restaurant presents Mediterranean fare, but because of its extreme international popularity, the authentic Turkish culture suffers. Mikla, a now legendary Turkish-Scandinavian resto founded by famed restaurateur Mehmet Gürs is a must. The dining room presents 70s glam hardware mixed with midcentury modern appointments and it sits atop the modern cool of Marmara Pera Hotel—from which where one can view the old city and Topkapi Palace, which once housed Ottoman sultans.
Oh, the wonder of Istanbul.
The Kung Fu Tea Master at the Shangri-La Bosphorus
The ancient Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul
Chicago: In the Footsteps of THE BEAR
BY JASON GORDON
As Season 3 of The Bear premiered on Hulu recently, you may find yourself jonesing for some of the gastronomic offerings that are also stars of this popular and award-winning series.
Rob Levitt and Ayo Edebiri in between takes during an episode of The Bear
While you can take a very organized 3-hour “Yes Chef: The BearInspired Food Tour” with Chicago Food & City Tours (chicagofoodtours.com) that makes brief stops at key food-centric locations throughout the city, by default, it’s a group tour. I experienced this tour towards the end of my visit to the city, and it is the perfect abbreviated The Bear foodie experience if your visit to The Windy City has time restrictions. However, if you have time to experience a proper “at your own pace” foodie tour that’s inspired by The Bear, here are a few recommendations for your enjoyment. Bon appétit!
Mr. Beef
666 N. Orleans St. Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 337-8500
As a true Chicago institution that continues to be frequented by the likes of Jay Leno, Joe Mantegna and other celebrities, Mr. Beef is deeply engrained into the plot and origins of The Bear—so much so that ninety percent of the series pilot was shot here. Series creator Christopher Storer and Mr. Beef owner Chris Zucchero grew up together and as Chris Zuchhero told me, “I’m too busy keeping Mr. Beef ‘Mr. Beef,’ so I haven’t watched the show, but I hear it’s good!’ He went on to say, “Chris (Storer) said for years that he was going to write a show about Mr. Beef, so to see what has happened since then has been mind-blowing.”
Upon entering Mr. Beef, the fragrance of the au jus sets you up for a mouthwatering experience. When I visited at in the morning, people were already lining up to order delicious Italian beef sandwiches. Be sure to get your sandwiches dipped—and make it extra special by making it “Nacho cheese and juicy.” Whatever you do, DO NOT place your order with
any hesitation by saying “Umm…”—that will land you in hot water and you are certain to receive a direct (yet humorous) rebuke from loyal Mr. Beef sta ers, Jason and Fred. That said, please be decisive when giving your order. Just an FYI: Mr. Beef serves BOTH Pepsi and Coca-Cola products—which is very rare for popular restaurants.
Ever
1340 West Fulton Street Chicago, IL 60607 ever-restaurant.com
The 7th episode in season 2, titled “Forks”, is produced mainly at Chef Curtis Du y’s 2-star Michelin restaurant, Ever. As one of Chicago’s preeminent fine dining establishments, this restaurant is known for its eclectic, seasonal 8-10 course tasting menu, attention to detail and service precision. All of these aspects come shining throughout the episode. If you’ve watched the episode, you will remember a scene where Ritchie (portrayed by Ebon Moss-Bachrach) ran to his favorite pizza restaurant to get a whole pie for a group of diners at Ever before they left Chicago (as they didn’t have a chance to enjoy an authentic Chicago-style pizza during their visit). Ritchie brought the pizza to Ever’s kitchen where it received an Ever-style makeover and was presented to the diners who were
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Mr. Beef is centrally located and serves up the best Italian Beef sandwiches.
Perfectly presented at Ever Restaurant (above and below)
completely flabbergasted by this pleasant surprise. While the presentation was all Ever, the pizza was from Pequod’s. Please read on…
Pequod’s Pizza
2207 N Clybourn Ave Chicago, IL 60614 (773) 327-1512 pequodspizza.com
As mentioned above, one of Pequod’s deep-dish pizzas (as well as the actual Pequod’s Restaurant) made an appearance in The Bear, and rightfully so. In my honest opinion, Pequod’s makes the best pizza in Chicago—and please keep in mind that I did try numerous other pizza joints throughout my visit. What impressed me so much about Pequod’s is that they didn’t skimp. The toppings were on-point and the added flavor from the signature caramelized crust was a thing of beauty. After that meal, I was convinced that I hadn’t enjoyed a real pizza up to that point.
Incoming tangent: Pizza Hut once had a line of pizzas in the late-80’s branded as “Priazzo”, which left a favorable impression on me. But I was a pre-teen at the time, so I’m curious to see how “Priazzo” would stand up to Pequod’s goodness of today. Although, this current campaign by Pizza Hut with their Chicago Tavern Style Pizza looks suspect. And for Pizza Hut to have the audacity to tell the City of Chicago at the end of the commercial “Sorry Chicago. No one OutPizzas The Hut” is a laughable stretch. Please, Pizza Hut. You should have been advised to bring back “Priazzo” that’s tied with an ad campaign which strikes a contrite tone of authentic collaboration and honors the pizza culture of Chicago. Right now, your current campaign challenges the pizzerias of Chicago to lower their standards to meet you at your level—and that won’t happen—because there’s a real standard of quality over quantity with Chicago pizzerias. Okay, I’m done with this rant. Thanks for participating in my TEDtalk.
Margie’s Candies
1960 North Western Avenue Chicago, IL 60647 margiescandies.com
And since the episode above was titled “Sundae,” it makes perfect sense that the Margie’s Candies was featured when Sydney visited and enjoyed one of their popular sundaes. This historic sweets shop and ice cream parlor has been in business since 1921 and has welcomed celebrities such as Aretha Franklin, The Beatles and countless others.
Publican Quality Meats Cafe 825 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 (312) 445-8977 publicanqualitymeats.com
In episode 3 of season 2 (titled “Sundae”; more on this below), Sydney went on a quest throughout the city to get some culinary inspiration and she ended up at Publican Quality Meats. While at this esteemed butcher (which has a market and a popular café), Publican’s owner, Rob Levitt, gave Sydney (portrayed by Ayo Edebiri) a lesson in butchering meat. As Rob told me during our chat, “The scene with Sydney and me was very authentic. What we do here daily is exactly what Ayo experienced.” Publican Quality Meats Café is always abuzz during the lunch period—and its sister outlets, Publican Restaurant (serving modern American fare) and Publican Quality Bread, are both popular with locals and keep a brisk business.
A tasty sundae at Margie’s Candies
Behold, the perfect pizza at Pequod’s Pizza
Lunch at Publican Quality Meats Café is always a fresh and savory affair
MARTHA’S VINEYARD COMEDY FEST
BY STEVE CAPERS
One of my favorite comedians, Richard Pryor, once said, “There’s a thin line between to laugh with, and to laugh at”. I think this encapsulates the history of Black comedy in our country.
Because, just as almost everything else in the Black experience, we’ve had to make the best of sometimes awful situations and find joy and a reason to laugh. Black comedians have been bringing us that joy in movies and film, and allowing us to laugh with each other for all of our history here in America. Along wtih my wife Dorothy, I am the Managing Partner of Knock-Knock Comedy by Productions, founder of The Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest, and trademark owner of Black Comedy Month.
Most importantly, I am a comedy enthusiast who has used comedy as a way to entertain, and as a medium to drive Black entrepreneurial success.I believe my path in entertainment was sparked as a young boy while watching my Tony Award-winning aunt, Virginia Capers, perform as Lena Younger in the Broadway play Raisin, a musical version of Lorraine Hansberry’s play A Raisin in the Sun
I vividly remember sitting in a backstage corner watching the cast move into position while the stage hands got ready for all phases of the live production. I was really amazed to see the details that went into the play such as lighting, audio, set design, costumes and much more. As I reflect back, I think having that exposure early on had quietly prepared me for a career in entertainment.
Now note: My professional entertainment career began in 1993 when I joined Black Entertainment Television (BET) in Los Angeles. There, I worked on some of the network’s most iconic shows including Video Soul with Donnie Simpson, Teen Summit and Rap City. It was through my work at BET that I met comedic hots DL Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer, and Sommore on the set of BETs Comic View. At that point my official induction in Black comedy was rooted. I can truthfully say that I was bitten by the comedy bug! Especially after having a front row seat to see a variety of comedians including Bruce Bruce, Lavel Crawford, Eartquake, Ricky Smiley, Ms. Laura and many more.
In 1998, I was recruited by Comedy Central to head up their Chicago regional headquarters. The network was founded in
1989 as The Comedy Channel but was often depicted by many of its viewers as the “White Frat Boy Network” due to its programming niche. Nevertheless, it was the first cable channel devoted exclusively to comedy-based programming. While there, I planned comedy events for nationally-acclaimed comedians and personalities including Jon Stewart (The Daily Show), Lewis Black, Ben Stein, Adam Corolla, Bill Cosby and Sinbad.
I had a great run at Comedy Central. I was there at the rise of the animated sitcom South Park and the hit sketch comedy series The Dave Chappelle Show—both of which had TV ratings off the roof during their peak.
As bit of a side note, I would like to mention that I am a huge fan of Dave Chappelle. I love the way he tackles delicate cultural topics.
Dave’s trademark humor of being outrageous and politically incorrect has earned him the prestigious Mark Twain award for humor in 2019. Making several movie appearances, booking national tours and scoring deals with Netflix has grown Chappelle’s net worth to approximately $50 million.
It seems to be a general consensus that Chappelle is a comedic genius and will one day be recognized as one of the best ever
stand-up comics. Looking back, I was really proud to see that Comedy Central was willing to pay a Black man multiple millions of dollars to star in his own self-titled series. However, after viewing the first episode where it was a spoof on the PBS series Frontline, I began to feel a little uneased at how Comedy Central let the N word fly so loosely. Here I am in a room comprised of mostly White people and all of sudden I hear the word “nigga” followed by laughter. My initial thought was not to overreact because I didn’t want to be seen as this mad-militant Black man.
After all Dick Gregory, another one of my all-time favorite comics titled his autobiography Nigger. So, I said to myself that it’s probably okay for a comedian to use the N word if the comic was making a point. But the laughter got bigger and bigger every time the word “nigga” was used, I cringed. At this point I realized that my counterparts were laughing at the buffoonery of this Black character and missing Chappelle’s message that racism is a learned behavior.
But what I took away from this situation is that the overuse of derogatory words in comedy take away from the messaging. So I made a note to myself at that moment that I will create an upscale brand of comedy that would resonate with everyone no matter what race, sex or religion.
After five years with the network, and with a lot of knowledge under my belt, I launched KNOCK-KNOCK Comedy PRODUCTIONS in the Summer of 2003 to produce upscale comedy events for corporations, non-profits, and colleges and universities. We
tailored our shows for conferences, fundraisers, and corporate events. My initial client list included Bell and Howell, North Carolina A&T and Milliken University. Out of that, came the idea for a monthly comedy show that comedian Damon Williams and I conceived alled FUNNY FIRST SATURDAYs. The show was launched in a small coffee shop in the Bronzeville area of Chicago’s southside.
This monthly showcase was key to revitalizing a once vibrant comedy scene in the city that once had national recognition with clubs like the legendary All Jokes Aside in the 1990s. During that period you saw a deep line-up of comics that included Michael Coylar, George Wilborne, Bernie Mac, DeRay, Tony Sculfoeld, Deon Cole, Adele Givens, Kenny Howell, Jay Deep, B. Cole, Marlon Mitchell, Leon Rogers, Corey Holcomb and many more.
Now being on the fast track, if you will, Knock-Knock also produced Damon Williams’ New Year’s Eve Comedy Bash and many stand-up comedy networking events. Along the way, we were meeting and working with a national stable of comedians and cultivating new comedic stars.
2010 was a pivotal year for Knock-Knock productions. My wife and I were vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard in 2009 when we began to discuss the idea of putting on an African American comedy festival.
What better place than in Oak Bluff, a spot frequented by Black vacationers going back nearly a century. Dorothy encouraged me to go for it.
Realizing that top-tier comedic talent would be expensive, I decided
to work with emerging comics who were on the cusp of stardom. With early support from HBO, we were able to launch the Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest in 2011.
That first year we featured Damon Williams (The Kings of Comedy Tour), AJ Jamal (In Living Color), and Roz G. (Last Comic Standing). Damon became the host of the annual festival and we saw our roster of comedians grow to include headliners Tony Roberts, John Henton, Tony Tone, JJ Williamson and Chastity Washington and JJ Williamson.
Our nightly, two-hour shows provided an enjoyable means of escapism for our guests during our early years. The MVCF was a safe space to revel in comedy and entertainment from a Black perspective.
By 2018, we were ready to expand the Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest to the entire month of August and we created and trademarked BLACK COMEDY MONTH™, a heretofore unrecognized commemoration of the Black comedy experience. Today it is one of the most prestigious celebrations of Black comedy in the country, held each August. We characterize it this way: “A Black comedian walks into a club on Martha’s Vineyard and Black Comedy Month is born.
This long-overdue celebration of Black comedy is more than just good, clean, family entertainment. We also provide a historical perspective on the place that Black comedy and comedians hold in the entertainment industry. We celebrate Black comedic genius and, most importantly, we provide a showcase for both new and established comics to hone their craft and MAKE US LAUGH.
Black Comedy Month also affords us a unique platform to explore the evolution of Black comedy.
I often say the history of Black comedy has taken us from Black Face to Black Faces. If you were to read the program book for our past shows, you’d see that we not only seek to entertain but to educate. We explore the back story to Black comedy history.
The term “Stepin’ Fetchit” brings up negative connotations for most of us, but with just a bit of digging you’ll learn that Theodore Monroe Andrew Perry broke barriers for more than 50 years beginning in the 1920s. Starting during the Vaudeville era, he later found career success in Hollywood, until being pushed out when prevailing sentiments turned against his type of humor. Yet without his knocking down barriers with the then-studio execs, none of today’s success in comedy would have been possible.
Amos and Andy dominated both radio and television in some form over three decades. Theirs was the most precedent-setting, hilarious, infamous and divisive television shows ever aired. And the Black actors who filled those roles for television were part of a training ground that directly connects to Moms Mabley, Red Fox and Richard Pryor. The buffoonery that was a regular part of the show also fell from favor, yet is etched in our history and deserves to be explored as a part of that time in our history.
During Black Comedy Month we want to explore all aspects of comedy from Playing the Dozens to Dick Gregory; from Pigmeat Martin to our recently departed Paul Mooney; from Robin Harrison to Red Foxx; from Bill Cosby to Dave Chappelle.
For us at the Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest, it’s about portraying another part of our rich, and yes, complicated American history. We believe that history deserves to be told in its totality.
Our comedy showcase and our comedy brand are what we call “Heart and Soul Comedy”. Comedians center their routines around the ‘heart and soul’ of the everyday lives of African Americans. We celebrate the complexity of the African American experience. With us, one size does not fit all.
A comic once said, “A comic says funny things. A comedian says things funny.” Our comedians say things FUNNY. When they talk about everyday Black lives, they do it without the drama of foul language or questionable content.
But most importantly our comedians are FUNNY. We feature both identifiable superstars while being a training ground for those on the cusp of stardom. After just 10 years, our next-level comedians include George Wallace, Mark Curry, Tony Roberts, Roz G, Howie Bell, B-Phlat and more.
Others have seen our vision and believe in it. During our 10 years on Martha’s Vineyard, our sponsors have included BET, The Smithsonian Channel, Redds Apple Ale, Budweiser and HBO.
We also have a commitment to the community that has given us so much and we are partners with long recognized groups including The Polar Bears of Martha’s Vineyard and the news organization This Week on Martha’s Vineyard.
Today the Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest is a recognized brand featured in commercials, sitcoms, books, across social channels and our shows are fixtures on streaming services.
Certainly, even great ideas are not realized in a vacuum. They require hard work, persistence, and attention to detail. Our success wouldn’t be possible without the comedians, club owners and fans that have supported us for more than a decade.
I’ll say the future for both the Martha’s Vineyard Comedy Fest and Black Comedy Month is so bright and it’s evident with the amount of support we receive sponsors and fans. Plans are underway to expand our brand with an emphasis on streaming platforms, building a performing arts center near the island’s beloved Inkwell, and of course more laughs.
Because we are all about funny.
YOUR WISH IS GRANTED
RECENTLY, DISNEY CRUISE LINE LAUNCHED ITS FIFTH CRUISE SHIP, THE DISNEY WISH —AND IT IS TRULY A WONDER TO BEHOLD!
BY JASON GORDON
Recently, Disney Cruise Line launched its fifth cruise ship, the Disney Wish, and it is truly a wonder to behold!
From the moment you step aboard this magnificent vessel, you’ll immediately notice the air is scented with a captivating bespoke fragrance—which is fitting as the theme of the Disney Wish is all about enchantment! And this theme, which is emblematic to most Disney stories, greets you in awe-inspiring flair as you enter the Grand Hall, where a massively whimsical chandelier is anchored by a bold and shining wishing star. The thematic elements in this cavernous gathering place, is truly one of many crowning touches that you’ll find aboard the Disney Wish.
During its inaugural season, the Disney Wish offers 3- and 4-day sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida (which is about 45 minutes east of Walt Disney World) with exciting stops in the Bahamas at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay (3- and 4-day sailings) and Nassau (4-day sailings). These port stops provide amazing opportunities to interact with locals, take in culture, activities, shopping and so much more!
There’s always something to do on a Disney Cruise, and this is even more the case on the Disney Wish! Whether it’s spending the day in the expansive Senses Spa, relaxing in the adults-only Quiet Cove, having a cocktail among the Magnolias in The Bayou
Captain Minnie & Captain Mickey are ready to welcome you aboard the Disney Wish
Lounge, watching a classic or first run movie in one of the onboard cinemas, swimming in one of the ship’s pools, unwinding in a whirlpool spa tub or working out in the fitness center, you won’t run into boredom while on-board. However, if you’re seeking something with a bit more heft, visit the Hero Zone where you can shoot hoops, or compete on the challenging The Incredibles IncrediGames inflated obstacle course. And if you want to experience the apex of recreational innovation at sea, you should experience Disney Cruise Line’s first attraction at sea, AquaMouse! This exciting experience combines custom animation from “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse,” with lighting, special effects, and a bevy of aquatic surprises that Disney calls “splashtacular!” This thrilling 760-foot water ride is certain to be a hit for everyone in your family as they careen through winding slide tubes that are suspended high above the upper decks of the Disney Wish. One note: You will get wet.
Cruising with kids is a particular delight when sailing aboard the Disney Wish! For the littlest cruisers ages 6 months to 3 years, It’s
a Small World Nursery offers babysitting services in a themed environment that is inspired by the eponymous and iconic Disney attraction. For those who have younglings ages 3 to 12, parents can drop them off at the Oceaneer Club where they will begin
Disney Wish as seen from Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, Bahamas
Disney Wish at its home port in Port Canaveral, Florida
their experience by literally sliding into the facility. From there, they will begin to experience a reallife wonderland with expertly developed activities: Marvel Super Hero Academy where young “recruits” train to be the next generation; Star Wars: Cargo Bay where children take on the important role of creature handlers sourced from across the galaxy; Fairytale Hall where kids let their creativity shine; Walt Disney Imagineering Lab where kids can discover the secrets of world-renowned Disney Imagineers; Mickey and Minnie Captain’s Deck which is a nautical playground inspired by the colors, icons
and magic of Disney Cruise Line. And your Tweens and Teens haven’t been left out! Edge (ages 11 to 14) and Vibe (ages 14 to 17) are trendy hangouts where tweens and teens can chill and play in their own way, with dedicated programming designed to engage the unique interests of these age groups.
Guest accommodations aboard the Disney Wish are some of the most spacious in the cruise industry. Staying true to the Disney Wish’s theme of enchantment, every one of the ship’s 1,254 staterooms are luxurious destinations that are replete with generous space and storage for families. And if your family is large, no worries! The Disney Wish provides 451 staterooms with connecting doors to adjoining rooms. Most staterooms feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bathroom concept, which is ideal for families with children. Bathroom amenities in the staterooms are from Disney’s signature H20 line. However, if you seek an elevated experience, the Disney Wish offers Premium Concierge Staterooms and Suites, which provides dedicated services and access to an exclusive lounge with a private sun deck.
Hook’s Barbery: Haircut, Shave and a Bourbon Bar
Wish Tower Suite, Bathroom and Primary Bedroom
Upon first entering the Disney Wish, this will be your view, The Grand Hall
At Edge aboard the Disney Wish, tweens ages 11 to 14 years old play games and make new friends in a bright, colorful hangout inspired by a chic New York City loft
What’s more, there are four Royal Suites, which accommodate up to six guests and feature extravagant details and first-class amenities, including the Disney Cruise Line’s first two-story staterooms. The height of luxury aboard the Disney Wish is the Wish Tower Suite which is a first-of-its-kind accommodation set high in the forward funnel of the ship (don’t worry, the forward funnel is a façade). This 1,966-squarefoot “penthouse in the sky” accommodates eight guests and features an elegant design inspired by Disney Animation’s Moana, incomparable ocean views, Bulgari bath amenities and premium Disney service.
Cocktails in Deep Space? A Bourbon Bar in a Barber Shop? Yes, both can be experienced on the Disney Wish! For the first time on a Disney ship, you can experience a space-jumping tour of the Star Wars galaxy at Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge. Once you cross the threshold of its Star Wars “whooshing” doors, you’ll immediately enter a high-end bar that’s nestled within a luxurious yacht-class spaceship. This richly themed, immersive experience is reserved exclusively for adults every evening. Specialty otherworldly cocktails abound and craft brews are on tap – all of which may be enjoyed as you enjoy everchanging views from a galaxy far, far away. And be sure to stop by Hook’s Barbery for a haircut, shave and some tasty Bourbons—with all of the trimmings (no pun intended).
Dining aboard the Disney Wish is nothing short of abundant! Throughout the day, you can enjoy casual bites near the pool at the expansive Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. Here, several themed stations serve up BBQ ribs, smokehouse chicken, mac & cheese, turnip greens, cornbread, tacos, burritos, burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, ice cream and - of course, Disney Cruise Line’s famous Chicken Tenders!
Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge
Star Wars: Cargo Bay
Dinner with characters from Disney’s Frozen in the Arendelle dining room
Dinner at Worlds of Marvel cinematic dining adventure
For dinner, rotational dining will transport you to different stories every evening—with unique dining offerings to match:
• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure which is Disney’s first Frozen-themed theatrical dining experience where cuisine is infused with Nordic influences. ProTip: If it’s on the menu when you sail, be sure to order the Scallop appetizer! It will send your taste buds dancing!
• Worlds of Marvel is Disney’s first Marvel cinematic dining adventure, where guests play an interactive role in an action-packed Avengers mission unfolding around them, complete with a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
• 1923, named for the year The Walt Disney Company was founded, is an elegant celebration of the company’s legacy, paying homage to the golden age of animation and offering a tasteful tribute to the company’s Californian heritage with dishes inspired by the state’s unique fusion of cultural flavors.
In addition, the Disney Wish offers its guests a variety of casual dining options: Marceline Market is a stylish food hall inspired by popular marketplaces from around the world. An ever-changing menu along with ocean views from both indoor and outdoor seating can be enjoyed during Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. However, if you find yourself missing dinner because you rode the AquaMouse well into your rotational dining time—or past Marcelline Market’s closing time—never fear, you can enjoy 24-hour room service in your stateroom.
While the aforementioned dining options are included in your cruise fare, you should consider some of the fine dining options which are offered aboard the Disney Wish for an additional cost. Both of which are thematically inspired by Disney’s Beauty and The Beast:
• Palo Steakhouse is the next generation of Disney Cruise Line’s popular Palo Restaurant. Here, diners can enjoy numerous Italian specialties (which Palo Restaurant is famous for) as well as American prime cuts steaks, Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef as well as decadent A5 Wagyu.
• Enchanté is specialty dining restaurant that offers selections curated by three Michelin-starred chef Chef Arnaud Lallement of L’Assiette Champenoise, near Reims, France. While focusing on dinner, Enchanté offers a Champagne Brunch as well as a 5-course dessert experience aptly named, “Just Desserts.” Chef Lallement’s menu focuses on seasonal high-quality ingredients sourced from around the world that is complimented with a wine list that is transcendent.
The Disney Wish is as magnificent in size as it is environmentally conscious. Weighing in at 144,000 gross tons, the Disney Wish is the first of three new Triton Class ships that will be powered by liquefied natural gas that Disney Cruise Line will launch through 2025. This new fuel and associated propulsion technology is not only cleaner and better for the environment, it means a much quieter sailing experience (and if you’ve
Families can enjoy sumptuous meals at Marcelline Market food hall
While the kiddies are in the Oceaneer Club, parents can enjoy some peace at the Quiet Cove
Fun
cruised within the last 30 or so years with most other cruise lines, you know just how loud things can get when you’re near the funnels).
Entertainment aboard the Disney Wish is what one would expect from Disney: Perfect! Stage performances in The Walt Disney Theatre comes alive with original stage productions developed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line. The Disney Wish debuts two brand-new shows and revisits a guest favorite: A Broadway-caliber adaptation of The Little Mermaid invites audiences to rediscover iconic scenes, acclaimed music and beloved characters in new and unexpected ways. An embarkation day celebration called Disney Seas the Adventure takes guests on a musical journey into favorite stories helmed by Captain Minnie, Goofy and an all-star cast of Disney and Pixar characters and Disney’s Aladdin—A Musical Spectacular, a fast-paced musical comedy based on the classic Disney Animation feature. And one night during your sailing you will have the opportunity to experience Pirates Rockin’ Parlay Party which features live action, live music and live fireworks, all themed after Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean!
After experiencing the Disney Wish for its Christening sailing, I am convinced that Disney has raised the bar for the cruising experience. This was my 3rd Disney cruise and with every sailing, each experience tops the previous one. When it comes to luxury, I am keen on details and materials utilized. It’s clear that Disney spared no expense in the design and construction with this vessel. However, all of the right infrastructure and amenities mean nothing unless you have a team of crew members and staff that make it all come together and function properly. Disney has executed this quite well as the Disney Wish onboard experience exceeds anything I have experienced on a cruise to date.
Truly, the Disney Wish is another jewel in the very heavy crown of assets of the Walt Disney Company. It is my sincere hope and desire that you experience this phenomenal vessel soon.
DisneyCruise.com
Marvel Super Hero Academy is a high-tech Avengers headquarters where young “recruits” will train to be the next generation of Super Heroes with the help of their own real-life heroes
The Bayou lounge
Time to swim aboard the Disney Wish
THE GREAT CONNECTOR
After three decades as a marketing, political, and corporate strategist, Karl McLaurin sets his sights on the art world.
BY TIFFANY PARRISH
Spend 15 minutes with Karl McLaurin and you realize that he’s an indefatigable people person. While friends refer to the Brooklyn-born, Bostonraised networker as the unofficial “Mayor of Martha’s Vineyard”, clients describe him as having a killer business mind with an authentic creative spirit. The latter made him a natural fit for former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick’s administration, where he served as Director of Marketing and was known for his unique ability to create buzz-generating, community-based partnerships between the public and private sectors. “With a nationwide roster of A-list professional and personal contacts, Karl connects the right people with each other or with the right organizations. Whether it’s for business or just to help a friend, that’s Karl. It’s what he does,” says one Californiabased client.
Being true to form, while McLaurin was lounging in the Boston studio of good friend and critically-acclaimed artist Paul Goodnight, an idea was born. McLaurin’s company Oak Hill Consulting Partners, would expand its focus to include representing artists whose work he loves (ranging from Goodnight to urban muralist Percy Fortini-Wright and contemporary painter Larry Pierce). Thanks to the prompting of
Goodnight, whose clients include Samuel L. Jackson, Lionel Richie and Hill Harper, McLaurin is now marrying his decades of marketing experience with his love of art. In addition to selling his favorite artists’ work on Oakhillconsultingpartners.com, McLaurin specializes in special projects, unique events and collaborations. Art enthusiasts and “those in-the-know” are now quick to call McLaurin, often for one of three things: they are looking for diverse artists on the rise to round out their personal or corporate collections; they’re looking to commission a contemporary artist to create a specific, often large-scale piece, mural/installation; or they’re looking to host a private event at an artists studio, from a cocktail party to a behind-the-scenes studio tour.
What began as a passion project is now a burgeoning business, serving as a lesson to us all: follow your heart and success will come.
For more information and upcoming events, go to Oakhillconsultingpartners.com.
KARL MCLAURIN AT STUDIO OF PAUL GOODNIGHT
PG BRICK BOTTOM BLUES BY PAUL GOODNIGHT
PG BRICK BOTTOM BLUES BY PAUL GOODNIGHT
TRUMPLAND BY LARRY PIERCE
BUSTA RHYMES BY PERCY FORTINI-WRIGHT
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Inspired by her grandmother and her mother, Kim Hill creates these “Hazel and Shirley” bespoke hand woven chairs that she says are “so closely aligned to hair braiding and weaving styles that our own ancestors have done for centuries. KIM understood very early on, in developing Next of Kim, that wellness isn’t just about what you put on your body. it is about the colors, smells and the information that you take in every day. Available at Salte on Martha’s Vineyard and at Nextofkimbeauty.com
KIM HILL DESIGN
CHANGE IS POSSIBLE
Fact: You have options when facing a lung cancer diagnosis.
Learning all that you can about a diagnosis and what options are available can bring more than just hope. It can be the key to accessing treatments that help make long-term survival possible.
Lung cancer clinical trials may be the right option for you or a loved one. For more information on lung cancer and cancer clinical trials, visit StandUpToCancer.org/LungCancer
Fact:
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
Fact:
Over 25,000 Black Americans were diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019 alone.
Fact: New treatments are being discovered every day, and they may be available to you.
