Black Family Game Night Brings Out Community for Spades, Fellowship, and More
Black Family Game Night closed out Black History Month with a celebration of culture and family traditions. Organized by McDonald’s owner Kerri Harper-Howie and Kevito Clark of Subject To Change LLC and his “Love, Peace & Spades™” initiative, the event brought the community together for classic games such as Spades and Dominoes.
Debbie Allen Honors Women’s History Month with Month-long Event Series ‘HERstory’
Honoring Women’s History Month, Debbie Allen hosted “HERstory,” a month-long celebration that included events such as an art gallery reception and a dance performance by students of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. The series also featured a panel discussion titled “Men Who Love Women,” which explored the significance of supporting and loving women.
Second-Generation Milliner Meeka Robinson Keeps Family Tradition Alive with One-of-a-Kind Hats
Meeka Robinson continues her family’s legacy through One Of A Kind Hats, a boutique specializing in custom hats and accessories. Founded by her mother, the business began as a store for affluent churchgoers but has since adapted to industry changes. Through collaborations with celebrities and virtual fashion shows, she has built the brand’s reputation, with plans to launch her fashion line within the next five years.
William Anthony Performs ‘Dawn’ at the L.A. Natural History Museum
Pianist and composer William Anthony debuted his EP Dawn with a live performance at the Los Angeles Natural History Museum. Surrounded by dinosaur fossils, William’s performance took inspiration from multiple musical genres, blending classical with hip-hop. William views Dawn as the first installment in a four-part series, with future performances planned at other iconic venues.
‘Playdate with Dad’ Father’s Day Event at Baldwin Hills Recreation Center
L.A. Councilwoman Heather Hutt hosted “Playdate with Dad” at the Baldwin Hills Recreation Center to celebrate Father’s Day. This free family event offered games, music, face painting, and activities, along with meals provided by local organizations. Fathers received parenting resources and clothing from the Children’s Institute’s Project Fatherhood.
Leimert Park Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Sika Dwimfo
On Aug. 10, Leimert Park hosted a community gathering to honor the life and legacy of Sika Dwimfo. Known as the “Master Jeweler,” “Baba,” and “Godfather of Leimert Park,” Sika founded his store, Sika, in 1992. The event featured live music, handmade crafts, and African cuisines, allowing community members to celebrate his contributions.
Black Rodeo Matters in Los Angeles
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Industry Hills Expo Center on June 20-21 with a sold-out crowd. Dubbed the “Greatest Show on Dirt,” the event spotlighted Black cowboy and cowgirl culture with rodeo competitions, live music, and food trucks. Activities like bull riding and barrel racing honored the legacy of Bill Pickett and celebrated Black cowboys and their historical contributions.
TEC Leimert’s Annual Black to the Future Tech & Entertainment Conference
The TEC Leimert conference returned in 2024, bringing together innovators from the tech and entertainment industries for a series of networking events, panel discussions, and immersive experiences. The conference featured panels like “Black Animation 101” and “AI and Creative Technologists,” celebrating advancements in the tech world while promoting diversity within creative fields.
Brew Lyfe Coffee Opens in the South Bay Galleria
Carson native Erika Adams opened Brew Lyfe Coffee in the South Bay Galleria, offering coffee made from organically farmed beans and infused with natural herbs, fruits, and nuts. After experiencing adverse reactions to conventional coffee during the pandemic, Adams used her toxicology background to create healthier coffee options. Supported by her family and the Collab Community Development Corporation, Adams opened her shop within just six months.
Magic Johnson Foundation and Target Bring Holiday Joy to Los Angeles Communities
On Dec. 7, the Magic Johnson Foundation partnered with Target to host a special holiday event at Target’s La Cienega Blvd. location, where 125 under-resourced children received VIP shopping sprees. Magic Johnson expressed his joy in witnessing the children’s happiness, while Target’s store director, Dominick Plado, emphasized the importance of community engagement and the event’s impact.
