Afro Lifestyle 07-12-2024

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July 4 concert brings thousands to nation’s capital

The second annual “Fourth of July in the District Concert” took place on Pennsylvania Ave between 12th and 14th streets on July 4. The free concert kicked off at 5 p.m. and featured the much beloved go-go band, Rare Essence, along with hip-hop icon Doug E. Fresh and the U.S. Air Force band. There was a mix of party and patriotism for all members of the family. In spite of the weather, vendors and attendees filled the streets to celebrate the nation’s independence.

The event was hosted by D.C. Parks and Recreation, the Department of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment and the D.C. Office of the Mayor, along with the U.S. Air Force Band. The addition of the Air Force Band, for the second year in a row, gives the concert a lift into international coverage.

Bernadette Mason and John Joseph share a laugh before the start of the second annual Fourth of July in the District Concert.
Patrice Brooks (left), Jessie Watkins and Nicole Shaw snags a front row seat to the entertainment.
Noir Noir addresses the crowd and the delay due to weather.
Local legendary go-go band Rare Essence performs for fans adding to their prolific performance resume.
DJ Quick Silva makes the crowd move with a mix of old and new jams.
The United States Air Force Band performs for those gathered.
LaMerci Bowman arrives prepared to brave the weather.
The United States Air Force Band joins this concert for the second time.
Festival host LaToya Foster, director of the D.C. Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment, makes introductions to the crowd.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser thanks the crowd for coming out, braving the rain and wishes them a happy Fourth of July.
All Photos by J. Pamela Stills

On July 4, the Cherry Hill neighborhood, located in South Baltimore, invited guests from near and far to celebrate the rich culture found in Charm City. For nearly a decade, the Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival has highlighted the South Baltimore neighborhood and shone a light on Black contributions to the arts. This year’s event was full of family-friendly fun, interactive and educational activities and of course, fireworks.

AFRO Photos / Alexis Taylor
Associated Black Charities Executive Director Chrissy Thornton (left) and Bernard K. Sims, greet attendees and offer resources to residents during the festival.
Grandmother Edna, a griot storyteller, author and activist, speaks to festival attendees about their rich heritage.
Charles Dugger, retired school teacher and community activist, displays his kinara. A kinara is the candle holder used in the celebration of Kwanzaa each December.
Magician, puppeteer and news announcer for iHeart Media, John Carrington, amazes the crowd with his miracle rings illusions act.
Sequoia Smith brings a bit of culture to the 2024 Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival.
Mayor Brandon M. Scott enjoys the July 4 fireworks with his son, Charm, fianceé Hana Pugh (left) and legendary creator and activist, Navasha Daya.
Sister Carol takes to the festival stage.
Photo courtesy of the Baltimore City Office of the Mayor / J.J. McQueen
Photo courtesy of the Baltimore City Office of the Mayor / J.J. McQueen

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