CHCI HONORS THE LEGENDARY AND GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING, LOS TIGRES DEL NORTE, ACTOR & PRODUCER, ROSARIO DAWSON, LILI ESTEFAN AND RAUL DE MOLINA FROM EL GORDO Y LA FLACA AT THE 47TH ANNUAL AWARDS GALA!

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) recognized Grammy & Latin Grammy-winning Norteño band, Los Tigres del Norte, American actress, activist, and philanthropist Rosario Dawson with the Medallion of Excellence and awarded the Chair’s Award to Raúl “El Gordo” De Molina and Lili “La Flaca” Estefan Latin America’s favorite talk show sweethearts from El Gordo y la Flaca televised on Univision Network.

The Chair’s Award is presented each year to individuals who have dedicated their public or private careers to improving the lives of Hispanic Americans. The honorees are chosen wholly at the Chair’s discretion.

The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) is the premier Hispanic nonprofit and nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization in the country dedicated to developing the next generation of Latino leaders. CHCI provides leadership, public service, and policy experiences to outstanding Latino/a/x students and young professionals, and convenes Members of Congress, other public officials, corporate executives, nonprofit advocates, and thought leaders to discuss issues facing the nation and the Hispanic community.

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VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS ATTENDS THE THE 2024 CONGRESSIONAL HISPANIC CAUCUS INSTITUTE LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE "LATINOS EXCELLENCE IN ACTION"!

Vice President Kamala D. Harris spoke at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Leadership Conference that took place at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC.  Vice President Kamala wished attendees a happy Hispanic Heritage Month and spoke about her roots and struggles her mother endured.  The event is largely attended by Latinx/Hispanics from entrepreneurs, students and public policy employees who were eager to to see Vice President Harris speak.

During Latinos Excellence in Action attendees were welcomed to hear panels from various experts in fields like education, health, politics and media among other subjects. CHCI brings together an unmatched network of community leaders it's mission is to build a pipeline of Latino talent ready to shake up local communities, the halls of Congress, and corporate boardrooms. CHCI also convenes young professionals, Members of Congress and other public officials, corporate executives, nonprofit advocates, and thought leaders to discuss issues facing the Latino communities and the nation.

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NOCHE DE GALA IN WASHINGTON, DC HONORS ACTOR ANTHONY RAMOS WITH THE SPOTLIGHT AWARD!

The Noche Musical Gala is an evening of celebration, awards, and performances by NHFA’s Artists in Residence participants: The Rio Grande Palm Awards Winners performed during the evening.  Special Guests included Actor Nicholas Gonzalez - The Good Doctor, National Hispanic Caucus Chair, California Rep. Nanette Barragán, Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro and other VIPs. 

Awardees included Raúl Julia award for Excellence: John Leguizamo,

Spotlight Award: Anthony Ramos proudly celebrates his heritage in his roles, inspiring Latinos globally, Spotlight Award: Mónica Ramírez advocates for migrant and Latinx voices from rural fields to Hollywood. 

 Walter F. Ulloa Visionary Award: Rep. Tony Cardenas championed legislation to lower prescription drug costs and expand access to affordable healthcare.  Horizon Award: Carlos Eduardo Espina, a 25-year-old activist.

Actors Jimmy Smits, Sonia Braga, Esai Morales, Merel Julia, and attorney Felix Sanchez created the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts in 1997 to advance the presence of Latinos in the media and entertainment industries. Since its inception, the Foundation has promoted and advanced the representation of Latino students, artists, and storytellers in the entertainment and media industries through advocacy, visibility, and talent cultivation work. By ensuring that the entertainment, media, and arts landscapes reflect the rich diversity of our society, the Foundation is driving progress and building a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

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PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN AND VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS ATTEND THE PHOENIX AWARDS BY THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS.

More than 3000 attendees joined the CBC while honoring Maryland Governor Wes Moore, the late Sheila Jackson-Lee, Dr. Carla Hayden, Jaime Harrison and President Joe Biden with the CBC Lifetime Achievement award at the Annual Phoenix Awards Dinner. 

During the night President Joe Biden took the stage and spoke about leading the way for the black community. “We must show up; we must look to the future. I’m looking to you to help lead the way, to help push us forward and be the country we say we are, a country of freedom, justice and equality and proving that Black history is American history and Black excellence is American excellence.”  To end the fabulous evening guests enjoyed a lovely show by Grammy award winner singer Fantasia.

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) established in 1976 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. 

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CELEBRITIES, TV PERSONALITIES, ADVOCATES AND POLITICIANS JOIN THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS AT THE 53RD ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE.

ALC Honorary Co-Chairs Rep. Lucy McBath and Rep. Troy Carter, CBCF Board Chair Rep. Terri A. Sewell, CBC Chair Rep. Steven Horsford, CBCF President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery; Mamar Gelaye, Vice President, Operations Tech Solutions, Amazon, Sen. Cory Booker (NJ);  Maryland Governor Wesmoore, Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN); Warsan Shire Writer and Poet; Margaret Mensah Williams Ambassador; Dr. Uzoma Emenike Ambassador; Cheikh Niang Ambassador; Dr. Tulinabo S. Mushingi Ambassador; Lazarus Amayo Ambassador; Sabrina Dhowre Elba and other distinguished personalities join the Congressional Black Caucus to discuss various topics that affect the black community.

The Annual Legislative Conference is the leading public policy convening focused on issues impacting African Americans and the global Black community. The ALC is a unique platform where thought leaders, legislators, influencers, and concerned citizens converge to discuss and address critical issues, forge partnerships, and promote the political, economic, and social advancement of Black communities.

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Photo By: CBC

Vice Presidential Nominee and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Alongside Actress Cynthia Erivo, Sophia Bush and other distinguished guests from the LGBTQ community advocate for Equality at Human Rights Campaign’s 2024 National Dinner in Washington, DC.

Human Rights Campaign brought together LGBTQ+ advocates and activists from across the country for its annual National Dinner. This year’s event featured keynote remarks from Minnesota Governor and Vice Presidential nominee Tim Walz, who promised that he and Vice President Kamala Harris would fight to pass the Equality Act and enshrine anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ. Other special guests included Tony, Grammy and Emmy award winning and Academy Award nominated actor and star of the upcoming film adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked, Cynthia Erivo was honored for her work in LGBTQ+ advocacy with HRC’s National Equality Award.  The evening also featured performances from Our Lady J and Asher HaVon.

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) is an American LGBTQ advocacy group. It is the largest LGBTQ political lobbying organization within the United States.  Based in Washington, D.C., the organization focuses on protecting and expanding rights for LGBTQ individuals, including advocating for same-sex marriage, anti-discrimination and hate crimes legislation, and HIV/AIDS advocacy. The organization has a number of legislative initiatives as well as supporting resources for LGBTQ individuals.

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Photos by Chrystal Josel and Gedalia Vera

AN EVENING AT THE RAMMYS NOT THE GRAMMYS!

Restaurant industry professionals and their allies gathered at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for the 42nd Annual RAMMYS Awards Gala as Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) announced winners and a range of special distinctions, celebrating excellence in long-standing categories that range from individual professional honors to accolades celebrating culinary concepts and service.

All finalists and winners were determined by an anonymous panel of judges except for the winners of the five publicly-voted categories, which were decided by public vote earlier this year, and the Joan Hisaoka Allied Member of the Year category, whose finalists were nominated by peers and winner was selected by RAMW’s Executive Committee.

Presented by Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), The RAMMYS Awards Gala honors the exceptional ability and accomplishments of the hard-working individuals and organizations of the region’s restaurants and foodservice community. Named the #1 Food & Restaurant event by BIZBASH Magazine since 2008, The RAMMYS celebrate one of metropolitan Washington’s greatest assets: Its restaurants. The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) is the regional trade association representing restaurants and the foodservice industry in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area. The Association works to promote and sustain the growth and development of the industry while providing its members legislative and regulatory representation, marketing and small business support, programming and events.

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TOTS DC RAISES MORE THAN $8 MILLION DOLLARS FOR CHARITY!

From the Pension Building/The National Building Museum to The Anthem, Washington’s denizens have come together for good food, refreshing drink, and a twirl on the dance floor to support worthy charities. Today, the 13-state Taste of the South Committee remains a committed and focused volunteer group of 43 dedicated Southerners who make it their annual duty to share a Taste of the South with Washington, DC while giving needed funds to organizations back in the states they will always call home. Taste of the South has raised over $8 million for 250 charities and has continuously delivered a measurable impact on the lives of people across the Southern states.

For its 41st gala, Taste of the South is partnering with 14 mental health charities committed to supporting individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. These organizations offer a wide range of services, from providing crisis intervention and counseling, to promoting mental health awareness and equipping educators with tools to recognize signs of distress in students.

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GOVERNOR WES MOORE ATTENDS THE 2024 PREAKNESS IN BALTIMORE, MD.

The 2024 Preakness Stakes was the 149th Preakness Stakes, a Grade I stakes took place at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD  The race is one leg of the American Triple Crown and is held annually at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The Preakness Stakes is traditionally held on the third Saturday in May, two weeks after the Kentucky Derby. 

With rain falling throughout the day, the track was declared as muddy for the race, the first time since 1939 that the race was run in such conditions.  Seize the Grey won the race after leading wire-to-wire, finishing 2 +1⁄4 lengths ahead of Mystik Dan.

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31ST WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS' GARDEN BRUCH ARRIVALS.

The 31st Anniversary White House Correspondents’ Garden Brunch Celebrated Journalism, Democracy, and Heroism attendees with Governors, Senators, Members of Congress, Leading Journalists, Business and Tech Executives, Athletes, Actors and Reality Television Stars.  The event is Co-hosted by Tammy Haddad, Ruth Porat, Kevin Sheekey, Mark and Sally Ein, Symone Sanders-Townsend, Jon Banner, Craig Minassian, and Franco Nuschese was hosted in a private residence in Geogetown.  The event is one of the highlights of the WHC weekend. 

Arrivals included Actress Rosario Dawson, Lynda Carter, Rufus Sewell, Sophia Bush, Jordan Klepper, Wilson Cruz.  Philanthropists like Mark Ein, Jim VandeHei, Dave Rubinstein as well as other distinguished guests such as Ireland Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason; Luxembourg Ambassador Nicole Bintner; Australia Ambassador and Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser;  TODAY’s Al Roker and Savannah Guthrie.

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VOTO LATINO HONORS NBC UNIVERSAL NEWS GROUP CHAIRMAN CESAR CONDE AND ACTOR WILSON CRUZ.

"Our Voices" hosted by Voto Latino during the White House Correspondents weekend honors the leaders who are strengthening our media environment with the diverse experiences and skill sets required to meet the needs of this challenging and dynamic era.  Voto Latino honored Actor Wilson Cruz (My So Called Life, Star Trek: Discovery) with the Trailblazer award for his 30 - year career in the entertainment industry, and NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde with the Truth in Journalism award 

Voto Latino, the leading civic engagement organization focused on educating and empowering a new generation of Latino voters, announced today the honorees for the 16th annual "Our Voices: Celebrating Diversity in Media" reception.

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JELLY ROLL PERFORMS AT THE AXIOS/LIVE NATION PARTY IN DC KICKING OFF THE WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS WEEKEND IN DC.

Axios partnered with Live Nation for a massive party, with a security checkpoint to match.  Axios co-founder Jim VandeHei spoke on stage, of which he mentioned the site’s Smart Brevity style and introduced Jelly Roll, the country singer, who gave a surprise performance at the event.

Singer Jelly Roll also told the audience at the event that earlier that day he was in the senate for a hearing on a fentanyl bill, saying 190 people in America die daily from a drug overdose.

Jason Bradley DeFord, known professionally as Jelly Roll, is an American singer, rapper and songwriter from Antioch, Tennessee. Beginning his career in 2003, he rose to mainstream prominence following the release of his singles "Need a Favor" and "Son of a Sinner", the latter of which won three CMT Music Awards.

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THE EMBASSY OF JAPAN HOSTS THE CHERRY BLOSSOM PRINCESSES AT THE OLD RESIDENCE IN DC WITH SPECIAL GUEST FIRST LADY OF JAPAN KISHIDA YUKO.

The Cherry Blossom princesses were invited to the Old Residence in Washington, DC and were greeted by Japan First Lady KISHIDA Yuko.  The princesses and other guests decorated flower arrangements with the first lady, played rock, paper scissors and a few ladies were invited to ask the first lady a few questions during a Q&A. Before she departed the event the first lady shook hands and spoke to the princesses as well as wished them well.  

Kishida was born in Miyoshi City, she id the eldest daughter of Kunijirō Wada, a real estate company owner. She attended Tokyo Women's Christian University to study Japanese literature. She joined Mazda to work as secretary of vice president. She married Fumio Kishida in 1988 and has three sons with him.  On 4 October 2021, she became the First Lady of Japan because her husband became the 100th Prime Minister of Japan.

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THE LEUKEMIA BALL HONORS TERRY O'SULLIVAN.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) honored Terry O'Sullivan with the 2024 James L. Eichberg Lifetime Achievement Award.  Mr. O'Sullivan is the General President Emeritus of the Laborers’ International Union of North America.  For nearly 20 years, O’Sullivan has been a champion of LLS, he is being honored for his support and dedication to the mission through the Leukemia Ball and by funding critical research to advance cures for lymphoma and myeloma.   In 2016, his father, Terence J. O'Sullivan of McLean, passed away after a courageous battle with lymphoma. Prior to his father’s diagnosis, LIUNA Mr. O'Sullivan's company became involved with LLS through the Congressional Honors Program, which honored one Republican and one Democrat at an annual reception for their support of blood cancer initiatives.

The mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is: to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS exists to find cures and ensure access to treatments for blood cancer patients. LLS is the voice for all blood cancer patients and work to ensure patients have access to treatments for all blood cancer.

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The National Cherry Blossom Festival Pink Tie Party.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Pink Tie Party was held at Union Station Washington D.C.  Guests were invited to experience the sites and bites of global locations as we kick-off spring at the historic Union Station Washington D.C.

Guests walk the runway in their finest pink attire through the world’s most iconic springtime and fashion destinations and enjoyed international culinary delights and cocktails from the best DC area restaurants and renowned caterer Design Cuisine.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a spring celebration in Washington, D.C., commemorating the March 27, 1912, gift of Japanese cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo City to the city of Washington, D.C. Ozaki gave the trees to enhance the growing friendship between the United States and Japan and also celebrate the continued close relationship between the two nations.  Large and colorful helium balloons, floats, marching bands from across the country, music and showmanship are parts of the Festival's parade and other events.



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The Embassy of Panama wins DC Embassy Chef Challenge.

The 2024 Events DC Embassy Chef Challenge featured 23 embassies that competed in this year’s distinguished international culinary competition The Events DC Embassy Chef Challenge is a gathering of embassy chefs from around the world, showcasing the unique flavors of their home countries in a friendly, delicious culinary competition. The 2024 Challenge offers an immersive, global foodie experience only possible in Washington, DC.

Attendees traveled the world with their taste buds, sampling bites and beverages from the participating countries while chefs competed to win the coveted People’s Choice Award, chosen by guests’ votes and announced alongside the Judges’ Choice, selected by a panel of influential members of the diplomatic, cultural and culinary communities.

Chef Jovana Urriola representing the Embassy of Panama took home first place in the Judge’s Choice category with their Panamanian Style Afro Caribbean Chicken Tamale Dumplings. Chefs Lin Song, Lu Tao, Li XiaoFeng, Jia Wehhni and Zhu Xianglin representing the Embassy of the People's Republic of China won second place in the category with their variety of Sichuan Spicy Fish, Kung Pao Shrimp Balls, Sichuan Cold Spicy Noodles and Snowy Mooncakes. Placing third, Chefs Aris and Raymond representing the Embassy of the Dominican Republic served a popular dish of Traditional Dominican Roasted Pork with casabe and yucca.

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DC Fashion Week hosts designers from Europe and South America.

The 4 day event was held in Washington, DC.  Over 400 people attend the event every year and over 200 models sign up to model for designers from all over the world. 

This year DC Fashion Week hosted designers from Europe and South American as well as local designers from the DMV area. 

DC Fashion Week is a biennial event in the District of Columbia, United States, held by fashion designers who convene to dress local models who have auditioned for the event. Besides the preview, DCFW consists of four shows, each focusing on a different fashion grouping.

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Photos by: Kasper

80TH YEAR CELEBRATION GALA BY THE UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND.

The 80th year of the annual UNCF National “A Mind Is…”Gala took place at the Washington Convention Center. This milestone fundraising and social event focuses on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities.

Hosted by generous national and local corporate sponsors, professional organizations and individual supporters, the National AMI Gala is an evening of celebration attended by national celebrities, civic leaders, alumni, dignitaries, volunteers and friends of UNCF.

UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally-recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.

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Miss 2024 Hispano American Tyra Barns joined our team at the Washington Auto Show.

More than 10,000 people attend the Washington Auto Show held at the Washington Convention Center for over 10 years.  The event holds exhibitions of cars owned by the best from the automobile industry.  Guests can also test drive vehicles, enjoy demonstrations, family fun activities and meet VIPs. 

The Washington, D.C. Auto Show also features many manufacturers’ latest electric vehicles. One that turned a lot of heads was the brand new GMC Hummer EV, which gets 53 miles to the gallon electrical equivalent.  This year’s auto show has 500 cars with prices ranging from around $20,000 to seven figures. There are also several exotics on display, including the Ferrari, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, McLaren and a car that would make James Bond jealous: The DB12, a brand new, fully-electrified Aston Martin costing $300,000.

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First Lady Jill Biden Announces 2023 White House Holiday Theme:
The “Magic, Wonder, and Joy” of the Holidays.

The 2023 White House holiday theme is inspired by how children experience this festive season: completely present in the beauty and bounty around them, their senses alight, with hearts open to the magic, wonder, and joy of the holidays,” the President and First Lady wrote in a welcome letter at the beginning of the commemorative 2023 White House Holiday Guide.

Each room and design element throughout the White House holiday display encourages visitors to embrace their inner child, indulge their senses, and delight in the “Magic, Wonder, and Joy” of the holidays.
 
Guests enter the East Wing of the White House under the festive branches of an enchanting and magical Christmas tree. The entrance décor invites visitors to summon joyful memories of childhood at the holidays: lying under the Christmas tree and gazing up with wonder, marveling at the twinkling lights, and feeling the soft pine needles above. Holiday candy and sweet treats of the season float overhead in both the East Wing Lobby and East Colonnade, reminding children and families of the delicious flavors of the holidays.

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The Friendship Delegation from Anhui province held the 2023 Anhui Culture and Tourism Promotion event in the U.S. state of Maryland.

Anhui Cultural and Tourism (Maryland) Promotion Event was held on Tuesday in Maryland, the United States, with many interactive activities held to enhance recognition of the culture and tourism specialties in east China's Anhui Province

More than 100 participants attended the event, including Minister Jing Quan from the Chinese Embassy in the United States, Senator Clarence Lam of Maryland, representatives from relevant American business communities, as well as teachers and students from the University of Maryland.

Attendees experienced the cultural fusion between China and the United States through creative activities such as tea art teaching and interaction, and a performance by students at the University of Maryland about Eastern and Western beverages.



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The 3rd Annual Gatsby Showcase Foundation Red Carpet Gala at the John F. Kennedy Center of the Arts, Presented by L&B Concepts. 

The Gatsby Showcase honored Billionaire Dr. Trisha Bailey, Celebrity Designer Sergio Hudson, Captain James Kamau, Ann Tripp, Greg Lockman and Hosted by Actress Lisa Wu. 

The glamorous night took place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.  Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception at the John F. Kennedy Exhibition Hall, Fashion Showcase featuring spring and evening attire by Designer Sergio Hudson, RaMona Designs and J Michael Men's Collection.

The mission of the Gatsby Showcase Foundation is to strengthen, amplify, and sustain innovative partners locally, nationally, and globally that empower historically marginalized, minority, and underrepresented groups. Through social impact investing and fiscal sponsorship, we work in partnership with change-makers from these communities, connecting them to resources to amplify their impact.

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CHEF RIA MONTES AND HER TEAM FROM ESTUARY CONRAD WASHINGTON HOTEL WIN CAPITAL FOOD FIGHT IN DC!

Chef Ria Montes from Estuary at the Conrad Washington Hotel walked away with the champion boxing gloves after a 3 round battle with other distinguished chefs from the Washington, DC area. 

The 19th year, DC Central Kitchen’s Capital Food Fight returned to one of our city’s most beloved concert venues, The Anthem, for a safe, in-person culinary event. Honorary VIPs and guests joined the event to  fight hunger in the Washington, DC area.  Long known as one of the region’s best culinary events, Capital Food Fight provides partners a unique and unmatched opportunity to promote brands, entertain clients, and be publicly recognized for investments in the community.

DC Central Kitchen (DCCK} is an iconic nonprofit and social enterprise that combats hunger and poverty through job training and job creation. The organization provides hands-on culinary job training for individuals facing high barriers to employment while creating living wage jobs and bringing nutritious, dignified food where it is most needed. 



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A FABULOUS NIGHT AT CHEFS FOR EQUALITY IN WASHINGTON, DC!

Chefs for Equality hosts more than150 of the capital region's top chefs, pastry chefs and mixologists for an evening of food, cocktails and music to benefit the fight for full LGBTQ+ equality. The event featured 40 savory tasting stations and 20 crafted cocktail stations headed by renowned chefs and mixologists from the Greater D.C. area, as well as 13 personal chef tables an opportunity to dine with celebrity chefs for a lavish five-course meal in the middle of the action.

DMV area's top pastry chefs prepared stunning show-piece cakes that adorned the museum, and guests sampled these delectable pastries towards the end of the evening before heading out with a curated limited-edition goody bag chock-full of culinary goodies. In addition to impressive fare, live and silent auctions were also held.

Chefs for Equality is an event to advance the fight for LGBTQ+ equality through the work of the HRC Foundation, the educational arm of the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization

The HRC Foundation works to educate the public and provides training and model policies that alter the fundamental nature of the institutions that govern the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people everywhere. 

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INTERNATIONAL GOLD CUP 2023 IN MIDDLEBURG , VA!

The International Virginia Gold Cup is an annual steeplechase and tailgating event in Virginia Horse Country right outside Washington D.C. The popular activity is a staple for people who want to leave the city for the day and experience Virginia’s rich equestrian history.

Virginia boasts a rich heritage in the horse industry, characterized by its historical and agricultural roots. The state has played a pivotal role in advancing American Thoroughbred and other horse breeds. According to the Virginia Horse Industry Board, Virginia is home to over 215,000 horses. Al Griffin, co-chairman of the Virginia Gold Cup Association, pointed out that while the International Gold Cup is a major social occasion for many attendees, it also plays a vital role in supporting the equine industry in the region.

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If You Would Have Told Me: A Memoir by John Stamos

Book Tour in Maryland

A universal story about friendship, love, loss, and the courage to embrace love once more, John Stamos’s memoir is filled with some of the most memorable names in Hollywood, both old and new. Funny, deeply poignant, and brutally honest, If You Would Have Told Me is a portrait of a boy who went from believing in Disney magic to a man who learns that we have to create our own magical moments in life.



John Stamos, a three-time Emmy nominee, has earned his reputation as a highly regarded actor and producer throughout his over forty-year career in television, film, and on Broadway. His rise to fame began with his role in General Hospital and he has since captivated viewers with his diverse performances in Big Shot, You, ER, Grandfathered, Full House, and Fuller House and on stage in Cabaret, Bye Bye Birdie, and Gore Vidal’s The Best Man. Beyond acting, Stamos is a skilled musician, collaborating with The Beach Boys since 1985. He also serves as an ambassador for Childhelp.

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THE GOLDEN LANTERN AWARDS BY THE CHINESE AMERICAN MUSEUM.

The Chinese American Museum hosted The Golden Lantern Awards at  The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.  The glamorous event celebrates amazing, diverse Chinese Americans for their outstanding accomplishments, leadership, service, and indelible American spirit.  The Gold Lantern Awards “An Evening to Inspire” is a spectacular evening for all audiences with inspirational stories, lively cultural and modern entertainment, and a shared purpose. 

This year The Gold Lantern Awards celebrated Chinese Americans for their outstanding accomplishments, leadership, service, and indelible American spirit.  2023 honorees include Maxine Hong Kingston – poet, author, activist, Yue-Sai Kan – television host, author, fashion icon, humanitarian, Bel Leong-Hong business leader and activist, Larry La Founder and CEO of Maiwah Restaurant Group, Dr. Henry Lee - forensic scientist and media personality, Paul Li Founder of Calvin J Li Memorial Foundation, Stephany Yu Founder of the Yuan Foundation, Peter Wang a student who was shot during the Parkland shootings. The evening was emceed by television journalist Joie Chen and Executive Director David Uy and musical performances and cultural dances were presented by Starlight Art Ensemble, Pianist Liu Hao, Martial Arts performance by O-Mei Wushu Center, Jazz Pianist, singer and composer Bryan Eng Sextet.  Gedalia Vera

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TOM HANKS AND SAVANNAH GUTHRIE HOST HEROES AND HISTORY MAKERS IN WASHINGTON, DC.

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s celebrated its 6th Annual Heroes & History Makers celebration at the Anthem in Washington, DC.  The black tie event was co-hosted by  Chairman Tom Hanks and Hidden Heroes Ambassador Savannah Guthrie, the special evening spotlighted the millions of Americans who care for a wounded service member or veterans at home. Guests were greeted with a reception before the event, music by The War and Treaty, Host Tom Hanks and Savannah Guthrie filled the room with stories laughter.  The hosts also introduced families supported by The Elizabeth Dole Foundation.  Other VIP guests included Dreamgirls producer and Actor Jocko Sims and Actor and former Marine Adam Driver.

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation is the preeminent organization empowering, supporting, and honoring our nation’s 5.5 million military caregivers; the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for America’s wounded, ill, or injured veterans. Founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the Foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit and faith communities to recognize military caregivers’ service and promote their well-being.


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CONGRESSIONAL FOOTBALL GAME BENEFITIS FAMILIES OF FALLEN HEROES!

Started in 2004, the Congressional Football Game was first organized to honor and support the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police and to support the families of fallen officers.  The Congressional Football Game was first organized to honor and support the men and women of the U.S. Capitol Police and to support the families of fallen officers following the tragic shooting and death of Officer Jacob "JJ" Chestnut and Detective John Gibson at the U.S. Capitol. The two United States Capitol Police officers gave their lives to protect Congressmembers, Congressional staff, and visitors in the nation's Capitol. They were both shot and killed inside the Capitol rotunda.  Funds from the event were donated to the fallen heroes families.  Today the organization has donated more than $500,000 to families.

Members of Congress, DC entrepreneurs and former NFL players faced off against the U.S. Capitol Police for the 11th Annual Congressional Football Game for Charity. The game is a family-friendly event that includes entertainment and spirited competition on the field while bringing together Congressional and law enforcement communities in support of worthy causes.

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PPMW IMPACT GALA AT THE WALDORF ASTORIA HOTEL IN WASHINGTON, DC.

The Impact Awards Gala honored four trailblazers with awards for their significant contributions to reproductive health care, access, equity, and choice on the local and national stage. 

• PPMW Ally Award: Congressman Jamie Raskin, U.S. House of Representatives
• PPMW Disruptor Award: GRAMMY® Award-nominated producer, songwriter, and performer Maggie Rogers
• PPMW Champion of Reproductive Health Award: Maryland State Senator Ariana B. Kelly
• PPMW Catalyst Award: Patient advocate Brittany House

Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, DC (PPMW) provides high-quality, affordable reproductive health care; promotes education programs that empower all individuals to make informed reproductive choices; and protects the right to make those choices. PPMW is the oldest and largest provider of family planning services in Metropolitan Washington, serving Washington, DC; Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland; and Northern Virginia.

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CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS JOIN BLACK LEADERS IN WASHINGTON, DC CELEBRATION!

The 52nd Annual Legislative Conference and Phoenix Awards was held in Washington, DC.  This event brings  policymakers, leaders, advocates, and citizens committed to addressing the most pressing issues facing our democracy, civil liberties, and cultural heritage. Under the leadership of the Congressional Black Caucus and the guidance of honorary co-chairs Rep. Stacey E. Plaskett and Senator Raphael Warnock, this conference aims to foster critical discussions and collaborations that shape the trajectory of our nation’s future.

The Phoenix Awards event recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society while uplifting and empowering the global Black community.  The Phoenix awards are the apex of the Annual Legislative Conference. It is also the primary fundraising event for the CBCF.

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HISPANIC HERITAGE AWARDS IN WASHINGTON, DC

National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts honored three outstanding talents and hosted an inaugural summit to examine the emergence of Latino representation in America’s arts. Honorees included:

• Ángel Manuel Soto, for his groundbreaking work in Blue Beetle, the first superhero movie directed, written and starring Latinos.

• Camila Morrone, Emmy-nominated actress who is currently starring in Patricia Arquette’s directorial debut, Gonzo Girl.

• Ramón Rodríguez, currently producing and starring in the TV adaptation of Karin Slaughter's best-selling crime novel.

Visibility Awards and Noche Musical bring together members of Congress and the diplomatic corps, Hispanic celebrities and entertainers, administration officials, members of the media, and various community advocates including NHFA co-founder Esai Morales, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, California Congressman Tony Cárdenas, Texas Congressman Joaquin Castro and senior ranking White House officials.

The Foundation is widely recognized for having its finger on the pulse of emerging Latino talent, as the next generation is the Latino community’s most significant asset in advancing the fight for representation parity. The 2023 Visioning Summit and Noche Musical benefit the foundation’s principal goals: Expand content and talent development opportunities for pre- and early-career professionals and maintain a scholarship fund for film and theater graduate students.

Gedalia Vera

ECHO BY CIRQUE DU SOLEIL IN TYSONS CORNER, VA

Cirque du Soleil's Echo is a show about the connection between humans and animals.  The story follows a female protagonist named Future as she navigates the phases of evolution. The characters learn that their actions can shape the world and come together to rebuild it. 

 The show features bold visuals and contemporary aesthetics. 

Echo premiered on April 20, 2023 and will be presented until August 20th under the Big Top on the Jacques-Cartier pier in the Old Port of Montreal. The show will also tour to Atlanta, Toronto, and Miami. 

Cirque du Soleil ECHO runs through to October 22, 2023 in Tysons Corner, VA.  Tickets can be purchased at cirquedusoleil.com/echo. 

The show is directed by Mukhtar Omar Sharif Mukhtar.

Gedalia Vera