Author: The Recap Report Staff

The National Hip-Hop Museum Honors Legends and Celebrates 40 Years of Beat Street

On December 28, the National Hip-Hop Museum (NHHM) will host a night that promises to celebrate hip-hop’s legacy in grand style. The historic Bethesda Theater in Maryland will transform into a music, art, and history hub, honoring some of the genre’s most iconic pioneers while marking the 40th anniversary of the seminal hip-hop film Beat Street.

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include trailblazers who helped shape the culture: Kool Moe Dee, Marley Marl, Lords Of The Underground, Soul Sonic Force, DJ Jazzy Jay, The Fearless Four, and The Treacherous Three. Many of these figures, including Kool Moe Dee and The Treacherous Three, played key roles in Beat Street, cementing their influence in hip-hop and beyond.

A Celebration of Hip-Hop’s Roots

The ceremony marks NHHM’s largest induction event yet, a fitting milestone for an institution devoted to preserving hip-hop’s history. Jeremy Beaver, the museum’s founder, sees the event as a culmination of years of work. “This is the culmination of five years at the museum of intense work to preserve and establish hip-hop as America’s most important cultural export,” Beaver said.

Beyond the inductions, the evening is designed to celebrate hip-hop culture. The festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with a VIP Pop-Up Retail Experience, offering rare items like vinyl records, sneakers, and action figures from NHHM’s Hip-Hop Shop. Live painting by NHHM’s resident artist Kevin “Scene” Lewis will bring another layer of creativity to the space as Hall of Famer DJ Kool hosts the experience and proudly showcases his RIAA Platinum Award, a first for a Washington, D.C. artist.

For those nostalgic for Beat Street, the event will include a special screening of the film and a live reenactment of its famous Christmas rap scene by Kool Moe Dee.

Honors and Performances

The induction ceremony will begin at 8:00 p.m., led by Master Gee, a founding member of The Sugarhill Gang and NHHM’s Executive Director. Honorees will receive custom Hall of Fame jackets, trophies, medallions, and other memorabilia presented by NHHM Historian Jay Quan, a noted hip-hop expert.

At 9:30 p.m., the spotlight will shift to live performances by the inductees. Attendees can expect to hear classics from Soul Sonic Force, Lords Of The Underground, Kool Moe Dee, and The Treacherous Three, making for an unforgettable night of music.

A Testament to Hip-Hop’s Legacy

The evening is more than just a celebration—it’s a testament to hip-hop’s enduring legacy and influence. By honoring these artists, NHHM continues its mission to solidify hip-hop’s place in cultural history. With its mix of performances, art, and storytelling, the event ensures that hip-hop legends’ contributions are remembered and celebrated with the respect they deserve.

Tickets are still available, with general admission for $75 and VIP access for $125. The event underscores that hip-hop is not merely a genre—it’s a movement that continues to evolve, inspire, and bring people together.

This December, the National Hip-Hop Museum offers fans a chance to experience the culture’s history and vibrancy firsthand. For hip-hop lovers, it’s a night not to be missed.

Tickets can be purchased here

Vanessa Bouie: Building a Legacy of Style and Comfort with Fancy Homebody

Vanessa Bouie is the dynamic force behind Fancy Homebody, a lifestyle brand that has redefined chic comfort for women navigating the complexities of modern life. With a focus on stylish loungewear and elevated essentials, Vanessa’s vision is simple yet profound: to empower women to feel confident, polished, and comfortable in their everyday lives.

As a wife, mother of two, and former corporate marketing professional, Vanessa intimately understands the demands of juggling multiple roles. After thriving in pharmaceutical marketing for over nine years, she sought a creative outlet to express her personality and style. What began as a blog and Instagram account in 2019 soon resonated with a wide audience. By February 2020, Vanessa transformed her passion project into a business, launching Fancy Homebody just as the world was pivoting to home-centered lifestyles due to the pandemic.

The timing of Fancy Homebody’s launch was serendipitous. Vanessa identified a gap in the market for high-quality, versatile essentials that allowed women to feel put-together, even during their most relaxed moments. Her collections quickly gained a devoted following, becoming known for their rapid sell-outs and inclusivity. Today, Fancy Homebody is a thriving Chicago-based brand celebrated in top publications like Vanity Fair and Essence, a testament to its widespread appeal.

At the core of Fancy Homebody’s ethos is a celebration of imperfection and authenticity. Vanessa believes in embracing the realities of daily life, offering styles that suit women of all body types and lifestyles—whether they’re lounging at home, running errands, or heading to brunch. Her Cincinnati roots and experiences in Chicago have shaped her vision, drawing inspiration from the everyday women she meets.

Vanessa’s success is grounded in grace and perseverance. She approaches each day with her best effort, understanding that some days may be more productive than others, and that’s okay. Her commitment to inspiring women extends beyond fashion; it’s about showing that dreams are attainable through passion, quality, and connection. She aims to leave a legacy for her children and for “regular” women, proving that success isn’t about fame or connections but the relationships you build and the value you provide.

Recently, Fancy Homebody achieved a major milestone: Vanessa received a Shopify plaque commemorating 100,000 orders, reflecting her dedication and her brand’s impact. As Vanessa continues to lead Fancy Homebody with vision and heart, she inspires women everywhere to embrace their unique journeys with style and confidence.

For more about Fancy Homebody visit, fancyhomebody.com and follow @shopfancyhomebody.

How Laquan and Camille Taylor are Redefining Recovery with Neurofit360 ATL

Laquan Taylor’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and compassion. A military veteran and survivor of gun violence, Laquan faced unimaginable challenges after being shot multiple times. His road to recovery eventually led him to NeuroFit360, a cutting-edge rehabilitation center located in Miami, Florida.

Unlike any facility he had encountered, NeuroFit360’s approach provided Laquan with groundbreaking care that changed his perspective on recovery. Inspired by his own experience, he made it his mission to bring the same level of transformative therapy to Georgia. 

Through his journey, Laquan explains that being able to identify and empathize with his clients is imperative. He shares “sometimes when you go to places, the people that run it don’t fully understand.” His personal journey inspires his clients, many of whom express admiration for his resilience and determination. 

 

A Partnership in Purpose  

Laquan’s wife, Camille Taylor, has been his steadfast partner throughout his journey. As co-owner and administrative leader of their NeuroFit360 location in Alpharetta, she ensures that Laquan has everything he needs to succeed.

Camille shares that when her husband mentioned wanting to bring NeuroFit360 to Atlanta, she knew it was vital to support his vision. She stood by Laquan through his recovery and now works tirelessly behind the scenes to create a nurturing environment for clients. Her administrative support also gives Laquan the freedom to focus on therapy sessions, where his connection with clients continues to inspire.

Their dedication has made a profound impact. Patients share stories of progress that once seemed impossible. One client, who suffered a workplace accident, went from struggling to move his legs to performing leg extensions on his own within a year. 

She reflects on how heartwarming it is to see where patients start and how far they come, stating, “some didn’t think they’d ever get out of their wheelchairs, but our therapists help support in shifting mindsets, understanding and the desire [to recover].”

Overcoming Challenges 

Despite their passion, neither Laquan nor Camille had prior experience running a physical therapy facility. They relied on their experiences as patient and caregiver to create a welcoming environment for both clients and staff. 

Laquan explains the main challenge was learning the ins and out including marketing and social media, engagement and networking. It took a year and a half to crack the code, but now, they’re in such high demand Neurofit360 ATL has a waitlist.

For those looking to follow a similar path, the Taylors offer this advice: 

“Do your research first. Make sure there’s a demand for the services you want to offer and grow into your business. Just understand—things take time.” 

 

A Mission of Hope

 Laquan and Camille Taylor are living proof that even the toughest trials can be transformed into triumphs. Through their belief in recovery, they’ve built more than a rehabilitation center—they’ve created a community where hope and healing flourish. 

Learn more about Neurofit360 ATL at https://neurofit360atl.com/.

How East Point is Staying Camera Ready with their International Film Fest

For over 19 years, the Peachtree Village International Film Fest has brought rich, diverse content to Atlanta, and this year, they’re elevating this initiative with the launch of the East Point International Film Fest. Born from a partnership with the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, the festival aims to establish East Point as a premier film destination for visitors from near and far.

The East Point International Film Fest has been years in the making. Founder Len Gibson has spent this time connecting with various municipalities across Georgia to broaden the festival’s impact. In conversations with Fulton Films and the Georgia Film Office, he learned about the impressive work underway at the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau (EPCVB), led by Chantel Ross Francois, and discovered they shared a vision of bringing a film festival to the city. A mutual friend helped bridge the gap, and the East Point International Film Fest was set in motion.

What makes this year unique is the festival’s mission to unite industry experts and enthusiasts nationwide to showcase East Point’s offerings. While many pass through East Point due to its proximity to the world’s busiest airport, they may not get the chance to experience the city’s cultural richness.

Taking place from November 7 to November 10, the festival opens with a press conference and brunch and wraps up with a cocktail reception. The event will feature a wide range of activities, including 60 film screenings, various panels and workshops, an awards show, and a pitch contest.

Highlights this year include The Business of Music and Film panel, which will celebrate legendary Southern hip-hop producer Rico Wade, and the inaugural East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau Culture Impact Award ceremony honoring former East Point Mayor Patsy Jo Hilliard, the city’s first African American and female mayor.

Other notable events include a free screening in collaboration with Black Girl Film Camp, featuring short films by young African American women, followed by a Q&A session. Additionally, there will be a showing of the Atlanta-shot comedy Car Lot, starring and executive produced by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, directed by Atlanta native Dorian Forbes, and featuring Jamal Willard, DC Young Fly, and others.

The ultimate goal of the East Point International Film Fest is to establish East Point as the “go-to” film and TV hub in the Southeast—a place where projects can be seen and sold. To achieve this, the festival offers year-round training to demonstrate that East Point is “Film Ready,” with notable productions like Black Panther and Stranger Things already filmed there.

Additional focus areas include:

  • Music Integration: Enhancing film and TV projects through impactful soundtracks and scores, which are essential to the success of any production.
  • Marketplace Creation: Providing a platform through the festival where filmmakers can showcase their projects.
  • Industry Training: Developing opportunities for young minds in the business and encouraging economic growth within the City of East Point.

To purchase tickets and stay updated on event details visit www.EPIFF.org and follow @epiffga on social media.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Stormi Banks Leads a Debt-Free Revolution

In an entrepreneurial landscape where accessing funding and mastering grant writing often feel like formidable obstacles, Stormi Banks, CEO of the Pink Print Firm, is dedicated to breaking down those barriers and creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs to thrive. Pink Print is more than a grant writing agency; it’s a movement dedicated to empowering women–especially women of color– to build and sustain debt-free businesses, achieve financial independence, and create lasting legacies of wealth.

Since its founding, Pink Print has aimed to go beyond securing funding to instilling financial literacy and stability for future generations. “The power of entrepreneurship lies in our ability to uplift each other,” Banks explains. “By equipping women to establish financially sound, debt-free businesses, we are laying a foundation for generational wealth and stability.”

Demystifying Grant Writing for Entrepreneurs

Central to Pink Print’s mission is dispelling the misconceptions surrounding grant writing, which many assume to be a simple path to funding. Banks underscores that the process is nuanced and highly competitive. “Grants require careful alignment with funder goals and meticulous preparation,” she notes. “Our role is to guide clients through this complexity, from assessing eligibility to crafting standout applications.”

Beyond funding, Pink Print provides a partnership to navigate each step of the grant process. By emphasizing clear strategies and precise positioning, the agency empowers clients to grow sustainably with the right resources in place.

Financial Freedom as a Core Mission

For Banks, financial freedom is not just a business tagline—it’s a deeply personal mission. Growing up in communities facing chronic financial challenges, she saw firsthand the effects of debt and instability. “Achieving financial literacy and control over finances is transformative,” she reflects. “It’s about building lives and businesses that are free from debt, enabling people to focus on growth and legacy.”

This dedication to financial empowerment underpins Pink Print’s latest initiative: the Debt-Free Revolution.

The Debt-Free Revolution: Elevating Financial Literacy in Atlanta

On November 16, 2024, Pink Print’s Debt-Free Revolution will come to Atlanta, expanding the firm’s reach in a day-long event focused on practical strategies for women entrepreneurs. Targeted at business owners from ages 18 to 40, the event promises to offer actionable insights for building wealth, eliminating debt, and accessing funding.

“The Debt-Free Revolution goes beyond inspiration,” Banks explains. “We want attendees to leave with specific steps they can immediately apply to reshape their financial outlook.”

With an emphasis on debt reduction, financial growth, and grant accessibility, this event represents a critical step in Pink Print’s vision of creating resilient, debt-free businesses. By providing the tools and guidance needed to gain financial autonomy, Banks hopes to inspire women across industries to transform their futures.

More Than an Event—A Movement

For Banks, this journey toward debt-free, women-owned businesses is about more than funding—it’s about dismantling barriers that hinder growth and inspiring women to forge legacies of financial independence. “This is the start of a lifelong journey,” she concludes. “The Debt-Free Revolution is about cultivating confidence, independence, and wealth for women entrepreneurs.”

Join the Debt-Free Revolution

As the November 16 event nears, Atlanta’s women entrepreneurs are invited to join this transformative experience, gaining insights and connections to build a future free from financial constraints. To learn more about the Debt-Free Revolution and secure a spot, visit https://thedebtfreeclinic.com/waitlist 

For more information on The Pink Print Firm, visit https://pinkprintfirm.com/

Revitalizing Fenton Village: Daniel Moijueh’s Mission to Empower a Thriving Community

Daniel Moijueh, Executive Director of Fenton Village in Silver Spring, Maryland, is dedicated to protecting and fostering growth within this vibrant community. Home to approximately 240 businesses, Fenton Village is a thriving neighborhood with establishments ranging from restaurants and salons to music and art stores. Under Moijueh’s leadership, the community is adapting to ongoing development, positioning itself as an enduring cultural and economic hub.

Central to Moijueh’s leadership is his commitment to advocacy and strong community relationships. By hostingmonthly forums, he brings together local business owners and residents to address critical issues, including crime, the impacts of construction, and homelessness. This open dialogue fosters a collaborative spirit, empowering Fenton Village to meet challenges together while creating a supportive network that strengthens community ties and resilience.

Daniel Moijueh, Executive Director of Fenton Village

A key initiative Moijueh is developing is the launch of a Fenton Village app—a resource aimed at streamlining connections between businesses and residents. This app will offer users easy access to information on local businesses, from restaurant recommendations to retail services, enhancing accessibility and helping businesses reach patrons through a user-friendly platform.

With a rich background that includes 13.5 years in the U.S. Army, Moijueh brings resilience, discipline, and a unique perspective to his role as a community leader and entrepreneur. His career has been marked by challenges that sharpened his insights, including a personal business setback in 2020 when he invested $250,000 to open a jewelry store, only to face overwhelming financial strain as the pandemic took hold. Though he eventually closed the store, Moijueh regards the experience as a valuable lesson in persistence—a story he shares to inspire other business owners facing tough times.

Moijueh’s vision for Fenton Village extends beyond short-term gains, aiming for a sustainable, thriving community. Leveraging his expertise in government contracting, he is exploring options for tax incentives, grants, and government partnerships to support local businesses. By securing these resources, he seeks to cultivate a flourishing small business ecosystem that can serve as a model for other communities, showcasing how economic resilience and community values can fuel sustainable growth.

Through his dedicated efforts, Moijueh is transforming Fenton Village into a resilient cornerstone of the greater Silver Spring area, where economic vitality and community spirit go hand-in-hand.

To learn more about Fenton Village, visit https://www.fentonvillagesilverspring.org/

HerSoul: The Experience – A Transformative Healing Event for Women in Atlanta

HerSoul The Experience is an upcoming, powerful event dedicated to supporting women on their healing journeys, especially those affected by trauma that has impacted their personal growth. This transformative conference, founded by Cosha Joseph, LPC-S, NCC, is set for Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at Hotel Colee in Buckhead. Designed as a safe, supportive space, this event invites women affected by trauma to connect, learn, and heal alongside a community of like-minded individuals.

Cosha Joseph, a licensed professional and national certified counselor, was inspired to create HerSoul The Experience after the success of her healing journal and affirmation cards. Driven by a passion to build a community of women bonded by shared experiences and resilience, Joseph aims to foster an environment where women can be open, honest, and vulnerable about their journeys. 

HerSoul:The Experience blends clinical and spiritual perspectives to create a comprehensive approach to healing. Attendees will gain insights and tools designed to empower them to overcome trauma and reclaim their path to personal growth. By addressing both the mind and spirit, the event promises to provide participants with resources they can apply well beyond the conference.

“This is an opportunity for women to see that no matter where they are in life, they’re not alone,” says Cosha Joseph. “HerSoul is about building a sisterhood, a support system that women can lean on. Trauma may be part of your story, but it doesn’t define you. This event is a space for you to reclaim your power.”

The event will feature guest speakers who bring diverse perspectives and expertise, including renowned motivational speaker RealTalk Kim, healing advocate Samantha Lee, and inspirational speaker Krystal Klear. Each speaker will offer unique insights into resilience, healing, and personal empowerment. Additionally, guest host Tyressa Ty will lead discussions, creating an inviting atmosphere for attendees to share and connect.

To purchase tickets, click here

To learn more about Cosha Joseph visit https://www.coshajoseph.com/

A Night of Strength and Self-Care: Moniek Garside Journal Signing

On Thursday, October 17th, Moniek Garside, LCSW, celebrated the launch of her first journal, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You”, at Nostalgia Kitchen + Cocktails in Stone Mountain, Georgia. The event was an inspiring evening centered on empowerment, strength, and self-care, as Moniek connected with attendees who are passionate about personal growth and wellness.

The highlight of the night was a fireside chat between Moniek and Star94 Personality Alyssa DiTomasso, where Moniek shared insights about the importance of self-care and how her journal can serve as a tool to help others on their journey. The atmosphere was warm and uplifting, filled with thoughtful conversations and powerful reflections on achieving balance in life.

While enjoying delicious food and cocktails, attendees had the opportunity to engage with Moniek and gain valuable insights about how to improve their well-being. Moniek’s journal, “I Can. I Will!”, is designed to help users set goals, reflect on their progress, and ultimately create a pathway to a more fulfilling life.

Guests had the opportunity to browse an array of exclusive merchandise, including t-shirts, coffee mugs, and a special “balance” candle, all available for purchase. Moniek also took time to personally sign cards and connect with family, friends, and fellow wellness enthusiasts, making the event a personal and memorable experience.

For those who couldn’t attend, “I Can. I Will! A Guided Journal to Create a Pathway to a Better You” is available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Lulu. To stay updated on Moniek’s work and wellness journey, follow her on Instagram at @fitlifewellnessllc.

The evening was not just about celebrating a journal launch—it was about fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and inspiration for everyone in attendance. Moniek Garside continues to encourage others to prioritize self-care and embrace their journey toward personal growth. 

Honoring Legends, Shaping the Future: Inside the 2024 Living Legends Gala

The Thomas J. Blocker Society hosted its highly anticipated 3rd Annual Living Legends Gala at the Loews Hotel in Midtown Atlanta. Over 100 distinguished guests gathered to celebrate a night of honor, inspiration, and the impactful leaders shaping the future of healthcare.

The evening kicked off with an exclusive VIP reception, where influential guests and sponsors had the opportunity to network and engage in intimate conversations. Among the attendees were high-profile leaders from various industries, all united by a common goal: to support the next generation of healthcare professionals.

With Emmy Award-winning actress Jasmine Guy as Mistress of Ceremonies, the formal gala commenced in spectacular fashion. Thomas J. Blocker Society (TJBS) President Dr. Vandy Gaffney opened the program with Wayne Martin, President and CEO of Covenant HealthShare, and Dan Walden, executive at PNC Bank, among the key speakers. The night also featured moving testimonials from two students, who shared their personal stories about how TJBS and its members have positively impacted their academic journeys and career trajectories.

The highlight of the event was the recognition of Dr. Harold Jordan and Dr. Willie Underwood III for their dedication and services to Georgia’s medical landscape. This segment offered a powerful moment with an intimate discussion featuring honoree Dr. Willie Underwood III and facilitated by 11 Alive’s Emmy-nominated anchor Jonathan Martin. The conversation covered Dr. Underwood’s remarkable career and provided an insightful look at the current state of healthcare.

Guests also participated in a lively auction, where generous bids were made in support of scholarships and programs designed to empower future leaders in healthcare and biomedical sciences.

The gala was made possible due to generous contributions from this year’s sponsors, including Covenant HealthShare, PNC Bank, Henry Schein, Northside Hospital, United Healthcare, Morehouse School of Medicine, Rucker Roots, Carter Hill, Sonder Health Plans, Law Offices of Cameron Hawkins, Olly, Pop Socket, Dax Hair Care, Best-Selling Author Bonika Wilson, Skin Leaf Cosmetics, True Citrus, and many more. 

For more information on how you can support Thomas J. Blocker Society initiatives or participate in next year’s gala, please visit www.thomasjblockersociety.com.

Celebrating National Vodka Day with Blackleaf Organic Vodka: The World’s First Black-Owned Organic Vodka

Co-founders Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow. Photo Credit: Trarell Torrence

On October 4th, vodka enthusiasts everywhere celebrate National Vodka Day, a day dedicated to appreciating one of the world’s most popular spirits. Since 2009, this occasion has been marked across the United States, spotlighting the finest vodka brands. Today, we’re paying tribute to a standout brand that is revolutionizing the industry—Blackleaf Organic Vodka, the world’s first Black-owned organic vodka.

Founded by Kevin Larkai and Monté Burrow, Blackleaf Organic Vodka is not just about creating a premium drink; it’s about crafting a high-quality, eco-friendly experience. As the first French organic vodka in the U.S., Blackleaf is made from 100% organic French wheat and distilled five times. This meticulous process ensures that every sip delivers an ultra-smooth taste, perfect for both seasoned vodka drinkers and those seeking something new and refined.

A Vodka of Distinction

Blackleaf Organic Vodka has earned prestigious accolades from around the globe, solidifying its place among the best. The brand took home a Double Gold Medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition, as well as at the New York Wine & Spirits Competition and the Singapore World Spirits Tasting Competition this year, marking two consecutive years of Double Gold wins at all three events. These awards highlight Blackleaf’s dedication to quality, taste, and sustainability.

According to the co-founders, the mission of Blackleaf is simple: to create a great-tasting experience. Their passion for premium vodka and their commitment to using organic ingredients set them apart in an industry that often prioritizes mass production over quality. “We’re proud to deliver on this promise and be recognized by discerning taste buds,” they affirm.

Archives – Blackleaf Organic Vodka

A Taste Like No Other

What makes Blackleaf stand out beyond its organic certification is its unique flavor profile. Tasting notes describe a satiny mouthfeel, with sophisticated hints of peppercorn, nut, and spiced pear. The vodka starts sweet and finishes with a silky smoothness that leaves a lasting impression. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a cocktail, Blackleaf Organic Vodka offers a luxurious experience that elevates any occasion.

A Brand with a Purpose

More than just a spirit, Blackleaf represents a step forward in both diversity and sustainability in the spirits industry. As a Black-owned brand, it continues to pave the way for inclusivity, while its commitment to organic production shows a dedication to environmental consciousness.

As we celebrate National Vodka Day, there’s no better time to raise a glass to Blackleaf Organic Vodka—a trailblazer in the world of spirits, blending taste, tradition, and innovation.

Happy National Vodka Day!

For more information on where to find Blackleaf Organic Vodka, visit: www.blackleafvodka.co  

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