The rise in membership isn’t the only thing that is changing with the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis.
I do believe they have 100 members now. And it also looks like the more seasoned members are making moves to ensure that the spice isn’t just for the Emerging 100 – who clearly stand out.
I had a chance to speak to William Luster after showing him how a selfie stick works while reveling in the birthday festivities of another member of the 100. With his passion and the leadership of President Quintinus Henry, things are changing for the better. I do have one request from the 100: Can you make sure I have a driver reserved with a cart stocked with water and snacks for the annual Golf Tournament on June 12? Please? And thank you!
J Walk’n with The Larry Hughes Foundation and Brittany Noble-Jones. The Larry Hughes Foundation hosted the 5th J Walk’n event in memory of Justin Hughes, the younger brother of retired NBA player Larry Hughes. He passed away as a result of complications from a heart defect he was born with, but was able to live an additional nine years thanks to a transplant. Their mother Vanessa Hughes is truly dedicated to bringing awareness of the importance of organ donations – especially in the African-American community, where matches are more difficult to find.
The crowd this year was thin, but those who came out to Parkway North High School had a dynamic time and it was a pleasure meeting two of their teachers and the principal, who invited me to come speak to a class. KMOV’s Brittany Noble-Jones served as grand marshal. I’m counting down the days until KMOV realizes that Noble-Jones has made many young professionals check back in with News Channel Four. She serves, and she has that combination of drive, talent and humility that the masses could easily connect with.
Delux Cares. Delux Magazine hosted a new event at Breve (formerly The InSpot) honoring the first of those in its “People Who Inspire” series. I arrived late … of course … but just in time to see motivational speaker Koran Bolden, Naretha Hopson and her fiancé Charles Brown receive their awards.
Delux editor in chief Keith Griffin shared that Delux Cares was created in honor of his mother to highlight those individuals who are doing exceptional things in their career, while also giving back to their community. Hasina Starks was on hand to make sure that Breve was running smoothly and everyone was pleased, and I must say with her design background and strong personality this revived venue will be sure to succeed. Of course, I had to enjoy the space at the bar, as I was “forced” to taste some of her newest beverages. Work can be so hard sometimes.
Tea & Crumpets. I was all ready for wedding season this year, but I’ve learned that not everyone will be making it to the altar. No shade, the couple did make a formal announcement of the changes via Facebook. We had to know that not all 2014 engagements would end with a jumping of the broom, but I can’t say that I wasn’t surprised by that abruptly ended engagement. I’m just going to sip my tea and await the wedding nuptials of two couples who chose not to announce all the details of their relationship online. Privacy isn’t all bad.
